Calgary Hockey Magazine Fall 2016 by Suggitt Publishers

Fall 2016

FLAMES FOUNDATION Puts Kids First Defenceman

BRANDON HICKEY

Follows University Route on the way to the Flames EMERANCE MASCHMEYER

Shines Under Pressure in the Net

get your

s t e k c I t to the snIpe show!

CALGARY HOCKEY MAGAZINE

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

7 5

DEFENCEMAN BRANDON HICKEY Follows University Route on Way to the Flames

Publisher’s Message

18 Arena Locator Map 20

10 FLAMES FOUNDATION: Puts Kids First

EMERANCE MASCHMEYER Shines Under Pressure in the Net

Hockey Calgary Bans the postgame handshake between refs and players/coaches

FAN 960: Calgary Hockey Scene Preview with Pat Steinberg

MATTHEW GUEST: No Skates for this Calgary Raised Hockey Player

CZECH IT OUT: Calling all Adult Intermediate Level Recreational Players

HOCKEY SHOT: 7 Ways to Improve your Focus on the Ice

FROM PLAYER TO MANAGER: Craig Conroy’s Challenges and Rewards

SPOTLIGHT ON AN OFFICIAL: Tate Lauber

POWER PLAY HOCKEY is a great way to learn a new sport and meet new people in a fun, encouraging environment!

Every Wednesday afternoon from October to March, 70 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 110 youth, aged 6 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22 years drop in at Max Bell Arena to learn on-ice hockey skills from Calgary police officers. The program is open to any youth with cultural or financial barriers who are interested in learning the game of Hockey. Most of the youth in attendance are newcomers to Canada, representing over 15 different countries where ice hockey is virtually unknown, and most of these youth have never worn a pair of ice skates before joining Power Play. This program is completely free of charge. The ice time is generously donated by Hockey Calgary and the equipment that can be borrowed is donated from people all over our city. In addition, with the generous donation of a city bus from Calgary Transit, Power Play is able to provide transportation from Calgary housing complexes in Forest Lawn, Dover, Radisson, and Shaganappi. We are always in need of equipment - Skates, Helmets with cages, gloves, sticks, etc.

If you are interested in participating or would like to donate, please call: 403-804-9133 You can also e-mail Constable Rayn Boyko at: pol3132@calgarypolice.ca

Message From

The Publisher Welcome back to another hockey season! This season marks our 10th year as the publisher of the Calgary Hockey Magazine. Our company publishes a variety of different magazines and programs, but as a hockey fan, this ranks as my favourite. It’s far from profitable, but I get a thrill out of publishing a hockey magazine, one which puts a focus on players and stories which don’t always get covered. We take a great deal of pride in the quality of the magazine, not just the high quality paper it’s printed on, but the quality of the writing and photography which appears within. All of our writers, editors, photographers and contributors are paid professionals in their fields, and we’re privileged to have their contributions. A magazine like this needs the support of the hockey community and business community, so we’re grateful for all the support. We encourage our readers to support the businesses whose ads appear within, these organizations who in their own way, make a magazine like this possible. In this edition, we have a feature story on Calgary Flames prospect Brandon Hickey, who was drafted by the Flames in the third round at the NHL draft. And speaking of the Flames, we have a neat story on the Flames Foundation, and the work Mark Giordano and his wife Lauren do in the community. Wrapping up this edition are articles on women’s hockey goalie sensation Emerance Maschmeyer; Olympic field hockey player Matthew Guest; Fan 960 radio personality Pat Steinberg; and a feature on Craig Conroy, former Flames player, and current Flames assistant GM. One of my favourite magazine mainstays is the “Spotlight on an Official” feature we do each issue. I’m always impressed (but never surprised) at the maturity level of the young officials featured. Some are as young as 14 years old, and it’s a good reminder to parents, coaches, fans, etc. that the officials on the ice are young people, too. When you take their helmets off, and talk to these young officials, it’s hard not to be impressed, and a reminder that they, too, are participants in the game. Due primarily to abuse directed at young hockey officials, Hockey Calgary made the decision to ban the postgame handshake between officials and players/coaches. We’ve included an opinion piece written by Michael Platt from the Calgary Sun on this subject. In closing, I would like to wish all participants in the game a great season: the players, officials, volunteers, the moms, dads and others, who positively support the players on the ice, and help make it all happen! To each and every one of you, I wish you a wonderful minor hockey season!

Sincerely,

Rob Suggitt

Credits President and Publisher // Rob Suggitt Art Director // Christine Kucher Graphic Designers Cailey Buxton // Katelyn Suggitt Contributing Writers Jeremy Freeborn // Jon Hagan Michael Platt - Calgary Sun // Rob Suggitt Copy Editing Shari Narine Photography Credits CandidKate Photogrphy Elan Kawesch Photography Calgary Flames Hockey Club Gerry Thomas - Calgary Flames James Emery - Hockey Canada Images Jenn Pierce - Calgary Flames Hockey Club Matthew Murnaghan - Hockey Canada Images Rob McMorris / Calgary Flames Yan Huckendubler - Field Hockey Canada Sales Associates Kerri Anderson // Lynn Schuster Administration Amber Grmek The Hockey Magazine is a product of Playhouse Publications Ltd. - an affiliate of Suggitt Ltd. President & CEO // Tom Suggitt President & CFO // Rob Suggitt 10177 - 105 Street, Edmonton AB T5J 1E2 Ph: 780.423.5834 // Fax: 780.413.6185 Playhouse Publications Ltd. also publishes the Citadel Theatre Playbill, Edmonton Opera Playbill, Arden Theatre Playbill, The Fringe Theatre Adventures Arts at the Barns Magazine and the Calgary Opera Program. All Rights Reserved. The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expresses within do not nessesarily represent the opnions of the publisher or Hockey Edmonton. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publisher - www.suggitt.com Printed By R.R. Donnelley

Publisher of the

Calgary Hockey Magazine 5

Early morning assist.

ÂŠ Tim Hortons, 2012

BRANDON HICKEY

Defenceman follows university route on his way to the Flames [

ary Suter, Joe Nieuwendyk, Joe Mullen, Craig Conroy and Johnny Gaudreau are among the alumni who have played the National Collegiate Athletic Association route on their way to making the Calgary Flames roster. Another could be on his way in the next couple of years. Brandon Hickey, of Leduc, is becoming one of the top defencemen in the Flames system. The Flames selected Hickey in the third round, 64th overall in the 2014 National Hockey League Entry Draft. He was the first player from the Alberta Junior Hockey League picked and only one of two players overall. The Montreal Canadiens took Olds Grizzlys defenceman Nikolas Koberstein, of Barrhead, in the fifth round, 125th overall.

BY JEREMY FREEBORN Photos by Rob McMorris / Calgary Flames

Hickey was excited to join the Flames. “You can’t put it into words how special it was. Every kid dreams of having their name called on draft day. It was obviously very, very special to be selected so close to home,” said Hickey, in an interview at the Markin McPhail Centre in Calgary during the Calgary Flames Development Camp. Being close to home, Hickey’s family was able to come watch the camp. At 20 years of age, Hickey had a respectable 2015-16 season. In addition to being a reliable blueliner for Boston University, Hickey represented Canada at the 2016 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Hockey Championship in Helsinki, Finland.

]

In two seasons with the Boston University Terriers, Hickey has had 11 goals and 14 assists for 25 points in 77 games, and was a +19. He also had a major role in assisting the Terriers in qualifying for the final of the 2015 NCAA Men’s Hockey Tournament (better known as the Frozen Four). In the final, the Terriers lost to Providence College. Coincidentally, the Providence College Friars were led by Flames goaltending prospect Jon Gillies, who was the tournament’s most outstanding player. Born on April 13, 1996, Hickey started skating when he was only two years old and started playing hockey when he was four. He played defence throughout his time in the Leduc Minor Hockey

Association, including the Leduc bantam AA Roughnecks, the Leduc bantam AAA Oil Kings, the Leduc minor midget AAA Oil Kings and the Leduc Midget AAA Oil Kings. However, it was Hickey’s experience at the atom level that was the most memorable. “In my second year of Atom AA, we won provincials,” recalled Hickey. “It was pretty cool at a young age being able to go to the provincials, and get accustomed to playing in that type of tournament. It was really fun.” After his time in Leduc minor hockey, Hickey joined the Spruce Grove Saints of the Alberta Junior Hockey League. He spent three seasons with Spruce Grove from 2012 to 2014. In his final season with the Saints, Hickey won an AJHL championship. The Saints eliminated the Sherwood Park Crusaders and Fort McMurray Oil Barons four games to three in two tight seven-game series in the first two rounds of the playoffs before sweeping the Drumheller Dragons four games. It would also be the third time in five years that the Saints would win the Gas Drive Cup (AJHL champions). Hickey explains why he chose the AJHL/NCAA route instead of the Western Hockey League. “I felt comfortable to have a backup plan once my hockey career is over. I knew I would not play hockey my entire life. There has to be a plan once I am done hockey. The NCAA offered me with an opportunity to get my degree while I was playing hockey. It seemed like a perfect scenario for myself.” Hickey plans on returning to the Terriers for the 2016-17 season. He will be a junior this upcoming year, currently taking general studies. Hickey is an integral part of the Terriers franchise. According to Ryan Pike, of www.thehockeywriters.com, Hickey told him that Boston University head coach David Quinn “freaked out” when his Western Hockey League rights were traded from the Tri-City Americans to the Red Deer Rebels while Hickey was playing in the 2015 Summer Showcase in Calgary. Hickey quickly reassured Quinn that he was continuing with the Terriers and had not switched to the WHL in order to join the Rebels for the 2016 Memorial Cup. Hickey did, however, leave his Terriers team for a short time this past December. He jumped at the chance of representing Team Canada at the 2016 World Junior Hockey Championship. Even though Canada had a disappointing result, losing 6-5 to Finland in the quarterfinals, Hickey came back with positive memories. “It was amazing. As a kid at the time of Christmas and New Year’s, you are always watching Team Canada at the World Juniors. It was obviously very special to represent Canada. Canada has a great hockey system and it was just very special. You got to recognize how special the tournament is,” he said. Hickey grew up idolizing Niklas Lidstrom and former Edmonton Oilers defenceman Chris Pronger. He also thanks his father for teaching him a lot, and how to be a good person. While Hickey’s skating style has been compared to current Flames defenceman T.J. Brodie, Hickey’s high shot-blocking numbers would suggest he could be

Hockey & Sports Fans!

compared to former Flames defenceman Kris Russell. In 2014-15, Hickey led the Terriers with 89 blocked shots, and he had another 55 blocked shots in 2015-16.

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Hickey believes his skating, shooting and defending abilities are his current strengths on the ice. “I have the ability to get my shot off quickly and get it to the net,” he said.

only

Although Hickey is confident with the power and accuracy of his slapshot, he feels he can improve the offensive side of his game. “I am currently working on my angles in front of the net. I want to be a better all-around defender and help the team the best I can from the back end,” he said. In the dressing room, Hickey admits he tries to keep things light and is a bit of a jokester at times. He also has an interest in music, and lists Nirvana as his favourite band. For those young defencemen in Alberta minor hockey, Hickey offers some advice.

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(The process) is

not a sprint.

It’s a marathon... Keep working on your game. Be persistent and you will get

“

“(The process) is not a sprint. It’s a marathon. You don’t want to rush through it. Every year you want to gradually get better and better. You don’t need to make leaps and bounds right away. Keep working on your game. Be persistent and you will get rewarded for it.”

rewarded for it.

In the future, Hickey would love to play in the National Hockey League and get his degree in business from Boston University.

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FLAMESFOUN

PUTS KIDS FIRST [ By Jeremy Freeborn ]

The Calgary Flames Foundation’s present focus is connected to children. That is evident in their relationships with the Young Men’s Christian Association (better known as YMCA) and the Calgary Board of Education. Through various programs, the Flames Foundation is promoting health and wellness, and helping to improve the overall well-being of children with stimulating programs that are, at times, related to hockey. The Flames launched its relationship with the YMCA on June 19, 2014, providing all Grade 6 students across Calgary with a free membership to the YMCA during the school season.

Calgary Flames Foundation Executive Director Candice Goudie discusses how the program was conceived. “We were looking at unique program options and something we could launch that wouldn’t exist without us,” said Goudie. “What we wanted to do for the community was to help educate, motivate and inspire kids to be healthier. In working with the YMCA, they indicated that Grade 6 students were an age group that would be most beneficial. (Those students) are on the brink of adolescence and it is a point in their life where they are starting to make decisions on their own about recreational time.” All children receive full use of all YMCA locker rooms, free

NDATION Photos courtesy of Jenn Pierce, Calgary Flames Hockey Club

“

Not every kid likes sports... that is absolutely something we are supportive of and want to be helpful in all areas of children’s development. We try to help [the kids] find hobbies and recreation that is healthy. Health doesn’t have to be directly associated with sports.

“

access to Flames Friday activities and free climbing wall orientation. Grade 6 students who are 12 years of age or older can register for a free babysitting course, and have access to the weight floor orientation. “We really wanted this to be a program for elementary school children to get excited about Grade 6. We hope we get to the point where every child and parent knows about the program,” said Goudie. The Flames Foundation financial commitment to the program is significant at $250,000 annually to the YMCA. The Flames Foundation stresses that the programs available to Grade 6 students are not limited to sports. Along with the babysitting course, the YMCA offers camps, leadership courses, and programs related to dance, photography and art. “Not every kid likes sports,” said Goudie, “and that is absolutely something we are supportive of and want to be helpful in all areas of children’s development. We try to help them find hobbies and recreation that is healthy. Health doesn’t have to be directly associated with sports.” It is easy for Grade 6 students to participate in the YMCA programs. “We have had a lot of people ask, ‘Do you have to fill out an application or is it restricted to financial assistance?’ The program is legitimately for every Grade 6 student in Calgary. All you have to do is go to a YMCA, fill out a form and get a Flames card right on site. It is not an application process. It is just a proof of age, and you are set,” said Goudie. The foundation is also dedicated to enriching the lives of southern Alberta youth in unique educational initiatives. The programs include Reading: Give it a Shot, the Calgary Flames @ School Program (in partnership with Chevron), the Flames Future Goals--Hockey Scholar Program, and the Harley Hotchkiss Scholarships.

From Left to right: Rollie Cyr (Vice President, Sales, Ticket Operations & Customer Service), Shelby Robinson (Event Coordinator, Calgary Flames Foundation), Jorgia Van de Sype (Marketing and Events Coordinator), Candice Goudie (Executive Director, Charitable Foundations/Community Investment), Annelise Milliken (Donor Relations and Foundations Coordinator), Tonya Young (Alumni Relations and Foundation Coordinator) & Blake Heynen (Manager, Community Relations)

In Reading: Give it a Shot, Calgary elementary school students from Grades 4 to 6 are rewarded for reading. For every 100 minutes students read, they are given a Flames trading card. The goal is for students to get all 24 trading cards. In the Calgary Flames @ School Program (in partnership with Chevron), elementary school students learn about the values of healthy eating and exercise. It is an online program that is also directed toward the students’ teachers and parents. “At the start of the year we take photos of the players and create activity cards,” said Goudie. “The cards include how to do a particular stretch, such as a jumping jack or a sit-up. Players also give their favourite breakfast and lunch. We publish the activity cards on the website. Teachers can then download the information and give it to their students.” The Flames Future Goals—Hockey Scholar Program is another online program. This one helps children develop their math and science skills through hockey. The course is geared toward students from Grades 4 to 7. Some subjects that are included are angles, ratios, temperature, velocity and speed. The topics are centred around hockey-based applications.

“

The main thing is to make sure they have the resources to succeed. To work alongside the 1,400 students has been incredibly rewarding and we look forward to supporting their future goals for years to come.

“You are learning about science and math by doing problems that are related to hockey,” said Goudie. “It is very interesting and a cool way to learn.” The programs are in addition to Flames captain Mark Giordano’s initiative where he and his wife Lauren have donated $200,000 to Calgary-based schools. The majority of the funds raised from the Giordanos goes to purchasing computers and floor hockey equipment. Four Calgary-based schools benefit annually from the Giordano educational initiative. During the hockey season, the students from the schools have the opportunity to attend a Flames practice and receive a healthy lunch. They also receive a workbook that has messages from Mark in it.

“

At the 2016 National Hockey League awards in Las Vegas, Giordano won the NHL Foundation Player Award. According to the Calgary Flames website, the award is presented annually to the player who applies “the core values of hockey—commitment, perseverance and teamwork—to enrich the lives of people in his community.” Mark and Lauren have been pleased with the progression of the educational program to date. “When my wife Lauren and I were looking at different options—we really wanted to do something to work with kids,” Giordano said. “The main thing is to make sure they have the resources to succeed. To work alongside the 1,400 students has been incredibly rewarding and we look forward to supporting their future goals for years to come.”

For more information on the Flames Foundation, please go to www.calgaryflamesfoundation.com

For students entering post-secondary education, the Flames have the Harley Hotchkiss Scholarship. The scholarship is named after the former Flames owner, who passed away in 2011. Scholarships are awarded annually to students attending the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University and the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. As the Flames strive to develop their mandate of improving the lives of southern Albertans, the scholarships are also available at Red Deer College, Medicine Hat College, Lethbridge College and Lethbridge University.

s e n i h MASCHMEYER S WWHC Exhibition Game Vs. Sweden

Photos courtesy of Matthew Murnaghan [action photos] & James Emery [headshot] Hockey Canada Images

UNDER PRESSURE IN THE NET By Jeremy Freeborn

Heading into the 2016 Women’s World Hockey

Championship in Kamloops, British Columbia, the stability of one position on the Canadian national team roster seemed to be uncertain: that of goaltender. From 2009 to 2014, Canada’s top goaltender was clearly Shannon Szabados, of Edmonton. But with Szabados unable to represent her country because of her commitments to the Columbus Cottonmouths of the Southern Professional Hockey League, an opportunity was made available to another Canadian netminder. There was no doubt that Team Canada head coach Laura Schuler had options in filling her 2016 Women’s World Hockey Championship roster. The decision was made to give playing time to Emerance Maschmeyer, of Bruderheim, Alberta, and Charline Labonté, of Greenfield Park, Quebec. At the 2016 Women’s World Hockey Championship, it was Maschmeyer’s opportunity to shine and she made the most of her chance. Maschmeyer silenced the critics early with a sparkling performance by making 35 saves on 38 shots in a 3-1 loss to

the United States. She followed that up with 18 saves on 19 shots in a 6-1 round robin win for Canada over Finland and 33 saves on 34 shots in the gold medal game in Canada’s tough 1-0 loss to the United States. Maschmeyer was named the top goaltender of the 2016 International Ice Hockey Federation Women’s World Hockey Championship. It was not just the number of saves that Maschmeyer made that was impressive, but the high number of quality saves along the way. At age 21, she has not only proven to be Canada’s goaltender of the future, but Canada’s goaltender of the present. It has been a busy time for Maschmeyer. This past spring she graduated from Harvard University with a degree in sociology and economics. While attending one of the most prestigious schools in the United States, Maschmeyer was spectacular with the Harvard University Crimson. In 99 games, Maschmeyer had a record of 59-29-10, a 1.65 goals against average with a .940 save percentage. Of her 59 wins, she had 21 shutouts.

Maschmeyer started playing hockey at age three and goaltender at age seven. “I have always enjoyed making the big save and helping my team win games that we shouldn’t be winning,” she said as to why the goaltender position appealed to her the most. Maschmeyer also had lofty goals at a very young age. “The first time as a goaltender, I was pretty awful. After a year of training, I improved a lot and took it really seriously. At the age of 10, I was very mature. I had goals set in my head, and at the age of 11, I believed I could be on the Canadian national team.” Maschmeyer grew up in a strong hockey family. Her older sister Brittaney also played in the NCAA with St. Lawrence and Syracuse University, while her older brothers Brock and Bronson played this past year with St. Francis Xavier University and Northern Michigan University, respectively. Emerance’s younger brother Kache has also played for the Fort Saskatchewan Rangers of midget AAA in the past. Maschmeyer is the only goaltender in the family and she is very close to her siblings. “They would always push me every day,” recalled Maschmeyer. “Even today when we go on the ice together, we have the same level of competitiveness. They are my biggest support system for sure.”

One of Maschmeyer’s most memorable experiences growing up playing minor hockey in Alberta was playing for Edmonton during the 2004 Brick Invitational Hockey Tournament. Emerance became the second female goaltender to ever play in the tournament. She followed in the footsteps of Szabados. “It was one of the most memorable tournaments. It was the team I wanted to make,” said Maschmeyer. “It was awesome. There were a lot of fans, and being right in West Edmonton Mall, there were people watching and a lot of energy. At the time, I thought it was the biggest tournament.”

“

The first time as a goaltender, I was pretty awful. After a year of training, I improved a lot and took it really seriously. At the age of 10, I was very mature. I had goals set in my head.

At the age of 11, I believed I could be on

the Canadian national team.

“

In June, Maschmeyer came to Calgary to participate at the National Women’s Goaltending Camp at the Markin MacPhail Arena. Following one full day session, Maschmeyer spoke to Hockey Magazine.

While playing at the tournament, Maschmeyer had the opportunity to meet Szabados, who was eight years older than her. The two stayed in touch, and Maschmeyer would follow in Szabados’ footsteps by playing in the Alberta Junior Hockey League. Maschmeyer played for the Lloydminster Bobcats of the AJHL in the 2011-12 season. Szabados was Maschmeyer’s idol. “Growing up I saw how Shannon always had such a huge presence in the net and was very confident,” said Maschmeyer. Like many high performance female hockey players in Canada, Maschmeyer played with boys growing up in Alberta. In addition to the Bobcats, Maschmeyer played for the Bruderheim Bruins in novice and then briefly with the Edmonton North SEERA, before playing with the Fort Saskatchewan Rangers from atom to midget. “They challenged me a lot and I always wanted to prove that a girl could play in those leagues too. I wanted to not only play, but play better than the boys. I loved that challenge and played with the guys until college,” she said.

Maschmeyer’s first greatest achievement in women’s hockey was helping lead Alberta to a gold medal at the 2011 Canada Winter Games in Halifax. Team Alberta had a perfect record of six wins and zero losses, including a 3-2 win over Ontario in the gold medal game. A year later, Maschmeyer was stellar between the pipes as Canada won the gold medal at the 2012 Under-18 Women’s World Hockey Championship in the Czech Republic. Maschmeyer had two shutouts in three games and only gave up one goal

“

Whenever you can add a player of her calibre, it’s going to make your team better... She is a very hockey-minded, smart goaltender that plays the position very well. The pressure doesn’t seem to bother her.

We are very excited to have her as part of

our team and our internal family.

When I got there, I looked around and realized this was real. I soaked it all in and loved it,” she said.

Photo courtesy of Elan Kawesch in 180 minutes. In the gold medal game, Maschmeyer made 28 saves in a 3-0 win over the United States. Maschmeyer would go on to represent Canada at the 2014 and 2015 Four Nations Cup and was the third string goaltender for Canada at the 2015 Women’s World Hockey Championship in Malmo, Sweden. However, having the opportunity to represent Canada in the gold medal game of the 2016 Women’s World Hockey Championship, in Kamloops, for the first time was an amazing experience for Maschmeyer. “The building was electric. I had been waiting to play in the gold medal game for the national team my entire life. When I got that call it was very surreal. I almost didn’t believe it at first. Then it was like, here we go, it is like any other game.

This upcoming season, Maschmeyer will play for the Calgary Inferno of the Canadian Women’s Hockey League. Head coach Scott Reid was pleased that the Inferno selected Maschmeyer fourth overall in the 2016 CWHL Draft. “Whenever you can add a player of her calibre, it’s going to make your team better,” said Reid. “She plays great under pressure. She showed it at Harvard and then she showed it at the world championship. She is a very hockey-minded, smart goaltender that plays the position very well. The pressure doesn’t seem to bother her. Good, or bad, she is even-keel and that is a big plus for sure. We are very excited to have her as part of our team and our internal family.” Maschmeyer has dreams of being Canada’s number one goaltender at a future Olympic Winter Games. The 2018 Olympic Winter Games in Pyeongchang, could become an interesting battle between Maschmeyer, and her idol, Shannon Szabados.

Calling Al l

GOLD MEDAL WINNERS If your child won a gold medal at the 2016 Esso Calgary Minor Hockey Week, we want to hear from you! Please complete the following questionnaire and send it in by December 15th, 2016, and your child could be featured in the 2017 yearbook edition of the Official Calgary Hockey Magazine!

Name:

Current Team: Number of Years Played: Usual Position: Favourite Hockey Team: Favourite Hockey Player: Who is your Role Model: Other Hobbies / Interests:

Send in completed entries, along with a photo (preferably in a hockey uniform) to: publisher@hockeymagazine.net

Age:

Favourite Hockey Memory:

School Grade:

Hockey Calgary

BANS

the

Post-Game Handshake Between Refs & Players/Coaches By Michael Platt – Calgary Sun “OPINION”

(Material republished with the express permission of: Calgary Sun, a division of Postmedia Network Inc.)

Or, they could just tell the grown-ups to finally act like it and set an example — or else.

Instead, Hockey Calgary has once again been forced to pander to the poor sports of their game, altering the rules and changing tradition to avert bad behaviour, rather than just setting a zero-tolerance policy for d-bag adults and the kids they are influencing. On the heels of mandatory good behaviour classes for spectator parents and a crisis of referee attrition linked to bullying and abuse, Hockey Calgary has now been forced to ban the traditional post-game handshake between refs, coaches and players. Starting with the 2016-17 season, no coach or player under the Hockey Calgary banner is allowed to shake hands or even speak with a game official after the final whistle is blown, in what can only be seen as another desperate attempt to protect referees from abuse. “The expectation is that the players and coaches will still line up and shake hands with the opposition, but that all contact and communication with Officials is to be avoided at this point, following the game when often emotions are running high,” reads the official memo, dated Sept. 15.

It’s another sad day for good sportsmanship, all because a few petulant people can’t keep their emotions in check, either as grown-ups with temper issues, or kids not properly disciplined by their coaches. “We worked directly with Hockey Calgary on this initiative and we fully support it,” said Lance McKinnon, chairman of the Central Zone Referee’s Committee (CZRC). “When the game is done, one team has won and another has lost, and emotions are running very, very high, so we’re hoping that by not doing the handshake, we eliminate that conflict.” The referees’ association would naturally support any measure that keeps their ranks from the venom and abuse they’ve endured in recent years, as the target of tantrums from people who should know better. Last year, officials with the Hockey Alberta Referee Council cited rampant bullying by coaches, team officials, parents and players as the reason young refs are quitting the game at a rate of 35 per cent per year in this province. In 2010, Hockey Alberta had a pool of 5,300 referees, a number that shrunk to 4,800 last year, with between 35 per cent and 40 per cent of amateur officials refusing to ever work again at the end of each season.

You’d think it would be an easy fix to emphasize the need for good sportsmanship, through instant multi-game suspensions and stripping of points to punish the entire team in the standings. The penalties already in place for post-game misconduct obviously aren’t enough, so increase the price for being a jerk. Make it so abusing the ref is a capital crime, with dire consequences for the whole team. If winning the match means so much to these meat-headed mouthpieces, surely that’s the way to soothe their raging hearts. Instead, the system is pandering to the lowest common denominator, by scrapping a tradition that was meant to remind players, parents and coaches about good sportsmanship and respect for the game.

The game

. That simple handshake, above all, served as a reminder that hockey is a game — and no matter what emotions occurred over three periods of action, that final whistle means it’s time to suck it up, and move on. “We reviewed this process with committee members, coaches and CZRC, and determined that only the handshake between Coaches and Officials required was prior to the game,” reads the Hockey Calgary memo.

“While the post-game handshake between players and officials was a ‘Nice to do’ thing, it was not a necessary process, as a sign of respect had been paid prior to the game.” Some would strongly disagree, saying the post-game shake is what really teaches sportsmanship and grace, when such things are hardest to come by — and that in turn builds character for young players, on ice and in life.

Instead, the handshake is dead, and good sportsmanship will suffer.

It’s a poor play, for the future of hockey. Editor’s Note: This article was recently published in the Calgary Sun, an opinion piece about the new handshake rule which was introduced by Hockey Calgary this season. We would be interested in our readers’ thoughts, whether you are a parent, player, coach, hockey official, or just a fan of the game. You can submit your feedback to “ HYPERLINK “mailto:publisher@hockeymagazine.net” \t “_blank” publisher@ hockeymagazine.net”

#FrozenMemories

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CALGARY HOCKEY SEASON PREVIEW WITH FAN 960’S

PAT STEINBERG [ BY JEREMY FREEBORN ] The 2016-17 Calgary hockey season should be very exciting. The Calgary Flames will be trying to turn the corner, while many of the junior hockey teams in Calgary will try to improve on last year. Pat Steinberg, of the FAN 960, spoke with Hockey Magazine Calgary prior to the hockey season to give his opinions on the Calgary hockey scene.

The other reason was Hartley was still a year removed from winning the Jack Adams Award. I know they regressed big time, like a lot of people predicted. However, the fact that the Flames surprisingly made the playoffs in 2014-15, I thought that Bob would be given an opportunity to start the season, and then go from there. If they got off to another bad start, then they would go in a different direction and then maybe they make the change. JF: Was it the right move to replace Bob Hartley with Glen Gulutzan? PS: I was in favour of the move. I thought Bob got a team to a point, but wasn’t able to get them over. There were a few things that the team did not show progress in. The Flames have been one of the worst puck possession teams every year under Bob Hartley’s tenure. You look at the teams that compete for division titles, compete for the Stanley Cup and the final four, they are all strong possession teams. Pittsburgh, St. Louis and San Jose spend a lot of time with the puck, and spend a lot of time in the offensive zone. Bob’s teams rely too much on counter-punching, high shooting percentage and other percentages working their way. That is not a sustainable way to win hockey games. I think Brad Treliving was aware of that even the year they made the playoffs. When the 2014-15 season finished, he said the Flames need to have the puck more. They did not take any meaningful steps forward—particularly in terms of systems. I think Treliving did not see the progression in the important areas and decided to make the move now. I was surprised because I thought he would get another year, but I agree with the decision. JF: Discuss the Flames’ newest acquisitions of Brian Elliott, Chad Johnson, Matthew Tkachuk and Troy Brouwer.

Jeremy Freeborn: The most shocking news for the Calgary Flames in the off-season was the fact that Bob Hartley was replaced with Glen Gulutzan as the team’s head coach. Did the move surprise you and why do you think Flames General Manager Brad Treliving went with Gulutzan over Hartley this season? Pat Steinberg: Yes, the move surprised me because if you take a look at the history of the Calgary Flames they do not typically fire coaches while they are still under contract. I was expecting Bob Hartley to start the season. They also typically do not fire coaches. For instance, Brent Sutter had his contract run out before they went to Bob Hartley.

PS: Elliott and Johnson turn the Flames into a much more competitive group. Calgary was by far the worst team in the NHL between the pipes last year. Goaltending at the beginning of the year sewered them. It improved, but the overall save percentage of the team never really got out of the dumps and they were 30th in that category all year long. Elliott had the best save percentage in the NHL last year. Even though Elliott has never played a full season as a number one goaltender before, and even though there are questions whether he can sustain a high save percentage for that long, he is still better than they had last year. Chad Johnson comes in as a backup goaltender after playing more than 40 games last year (in Buffalo). They are a tandem that you can say will be significantly better. If Calgary can have average goaltending and improve to a .912 save percentage, that could equate to at least four or five more wins.

I think they gave Brouwer one more year on his contract and $500,000 more than what was ideal. However you frequently have to overpay players in free agency. They let Joe Colborne (to Colorado) and Josh Jooris (to NY Rangers) go in free agency, and those are two very effective players. Colborne really improved in his time in Calgary. He is younger than Brouwer, and I think Colborne has the potential to produce the same way that Brouwer produced. I am not sure if the Flames improved up front. Brouwer, being a power forward, is a different type of player than Colborne. They are even players. Where Brouwer will help is with his leadership. He has won a Stanley Cup with Chicago. Jooris will be missed among the bottom six forwards. As for Tkachuk, I think it will be tough for him to crack the roster. I think Tkachuk has a decent chance to make the team, if he performs in training camp. I would be surprised if Tkachuk plays most of the season at the NHL level. I think there is a possibility he will return to the Ontario Hockey League. JF: What is your prognosis for the Flames this season? Do you believe this team has the capability of returning to the postseason? PS: I think they will be competitive. I don’t think it is a guarantee. I think the Pacific Division will be extremely difficult. I think San Jose and Los Angeles are the same. I think Anaheim is a little worse. I think Edmonton and Arizona will be a little bit better, and Vancouver is terrible and the worst team in the division. I think Calgary has the chance of making a step up and will fight until the end, much like the 2014-15 season. The wildcard is the most realistic spot for them. They should be competitive as opposed to last year, where they were out of contention in January. I think as we get into the new year, there will be lots to play for. JF: The Calgary Hitmen this season will be without standout defenceman Travis Sanheim due to the WHL eligibility rules and the fact he is ready to take the next step within the Philadelphia Flyers organization. What kind of a season do you think Jake Bean will have in Calgary without playing with Sanheim on a regular basis? PS: I think Jake Bean is able to breakout even more. He just got drafted in the first round (by Carolina). He is fun to watch. I think with Travis Sanheim gone, there will be even more responsibility for Bean. I think his defensive match-up responsibilities are going to be ramped up that much more because Sanheim won’t be there. Sanheim played a lot of tough minutes with that team. There will be even more fiveon-five responsibility for Bean and a ton of power play time. I think this will be the year where we say the Hurricanes made the right choice with Jake Bean. He is a really good hockey player. He already has had a couple of breakout years. I just think he is ready to have another step forward. JF: In the AJHL this past season, the Calgary Mustangs lost a remarkable 29 straight games. Is there anything the Mustangs can do as a franchise to improve their on-ice product and regain respectability? PS: It’s tough for the two teams in the city. The Canucks and Mustangs have the same two issues. There will always be a huge disparity when it comes to recruiting. When you have Camrose, Brooks, and Spruce Grove, who are able to offer players an opportunity to be huge stars and be in the spotlight in their respective communities, then the Canucks and Mustangs will always have trouble recruiting.

[ photo by CandidKate Photography ] The other problem is the budget. The budget disparity between Grande Prairie and Calgary is insane. Are there things the Mustangs can do to be better on the ice? Of course. What happened last year is historic and it is not going to happen again. I think what you have to do is focus on the coaching staff. The coaching hires are so important there. You will not necessarily get the hot and upcoming coach. You will need to get a guy who knows exactly what they are getting into. I’m not saying they don’t have that with the Mustangs. I just think it is important the Mustangs coaches know what their plan is, and know the limitations that you are working with, and not try to be more than what you are. I really respect the Mustangs and the Canucks over the last four of five years. They have really focused their attention on development. Yes, they would like to win, but they are focused on helping their players get to the CIS, NCAA and ACAC. I don’t think there is going to be a way to see those teams fight to the top of the standings anymore. It is so difficult because the smaller centres have money pumped into them. JF: You are very familiar with the SAIT Trojans. With long-time head coach Ken Babey no longer in charge, how meaningful is it that former Trojans assistant coach Dan Olsen is the Trojans head coach for a second season after being Babey’s assistant for five years? PS: I think that is huge. While you work under a legend like Ken Babey for five years, the amount you are going to pick up is significant. The knowledge depth that Babey has about hockey is off the charts. He chose to stay at SAIT, rather than climb the ranks. I think Olsen would have learned a lot from Babey when it came to recruiting and pacing the practices. The fact that Olsen is coming back for another season as well is key because it keeps the continuity there. By being in his seventh season at SAIT, shows that Olsen is a long-term Trojan, and there is a lot to be said about that. 21

Ways to Improve

Your Focus On The Ice

[ Written by HockeyShot’s Mental & Emotional Coach John Haime ]

Emotions out of the rink impacts performance in it. Something that’s interesting when I work with high-level athlete clients, including hockey players: their focus is often muddled by events that have happened off of the ice, not on it. Something may have happened at home or they are worried about something else in their lives that creates anxiety and hinders them from bringing full focus to the ice. For this reason, attention must be given to what’s going on off the ice. Those emotions must be acknowledged and expressed, helping to create a clear mind to focus on the task at hand — using your abilities on the ice.

What causes you to lose your focus? Focus is certainly one of the keys to performance excellence. Many performance problems, including a lack of selfconfidence, can be traced to problems in the area of focus. The more you lose your focus, the more difficult performance on the ice will be. What causes you to lose focus on the ice? Could it be players on the other team, off the ice distractions, coaches yelling, too much emphasis on the outcome (the score of the game), unacceptable mistakes, a bad goal, a bad shift, unforced errors? Everyone is different — you might have other factors that impact your focus. As a little exercise, make a list of the things that can distract you in a game.

practice should be working on your mental/ emotional game, like the great players. Similar to skating skills, shooting skills or tactical work, time and effort are required to build your mental and emotional “muscles” and use all of your abilities.

Here are seven steps to help you build those muscles and improve your focus on the ice:

You must be aware of what’s going on outside of the rink emotionally so the negative energy doesn’t disrupt your focus in it. Express emotions created outside of the rink before you arrive in the rink.

Construct a routine that works for you — simple, comfortable, reliable actions that put your mind on the task in training and when it counts. This creates consistency and predictability in your behaviour and begins your process of performing on ice.

If you find yourself drifting, bring yourself back to the centre by asking yourself “where’s my focus.” This will create awareness and help you keep your mind on the task.

Accept that there are things in hockey you can and can’t control. Identify what they are and only put focus on those things within your control. Consider this carefully and understand the difference.

Consider a very short, quiet session each day focusing on your breath. In this mental fitness session, the more you catch your mind wandering off and bringing it back to concentrating on the breath, the more your concentration muscles strengthen.

Eat high-protein, low-carb meals before practicing or playing. Carbs can cause quick crashes while proteins become brain fuel more slowly, providing a steady energy level helping to sustain focus.

Focus declines quickly when you are tired, and there’s an epidemic of sleep deprivation. Enough sleep can make a difference and help keep your mind on the game.

A few ideas to improve your focus. We all know that functional practice is critical to great performance on the ice and in any sport. Part of your

Focus is a big area in your ability to play well on the ice... and in everything you do. Get to know what allows you to be focused on important tasks. This will help you maximize your abilities and take advantage of all the work you do to become the player you’d like to be.

For more helpful tips & resources, please visit: HockeyShot.com 23

s d r a w & Re

From PlaYer to ManaGer :

CHALLENGES [ By Jeremy Freeborn ]

There is no question that center Craig Conroy was a

fan favourite for many years while playing for the Calgary Flames. He was considered a leader on both ends of the ice, excellent with the local media, and a generous humanitarian, active with the Calgary Flames Foundation. In the last five years, Conroy’s role with the Flames has been completely different. He is now an integral part of the Flames management team. Originally a special assistant to Flames general manager Jay Feaster, over the last two years Conroy has shared assistant general manager duties with Brad Pascall, under the direction of president of hockey operations Brian Burke and general manager Brad Treliving. The transition from player to assistant general manager was more difficult than Conroy expected. “When you are a player, you think of the general manager as a person who makes a few trades and makes changes quickly (if things are not going well). We are in a salary cap world now and it is much more difficult to make a trade. You have to make sure you draft really well. The job has been fun though. Making the playoffs two seasons ago has been the highlight of my managerial career so far,” Conroy said in a summer interview at the Markin McPhail Centre at the Calgary Flames development camp. Conroy and Pascall each have their own responsibilities as assistant general managers. Conroy oversees the pro-scouting staff and works with Tod Button in amateur scouting. Conroy also deals with the top 35 players on the scouting list along with player personnel. Meanwhile Pascall works with the Flames’ American Hockey League team in Stockton and is involved with player contracts. “I go and watch a lot of games, which I really enjoy,” said Conroy, but admits watching games as an assistant general manager is different than watching as a regular hockey fan. “I look for players with hockey sense. I watch if players are in good position and how they read different situations. If a player’s team is up 8-1 and the player blocks a shot that shows me a lot. Some other things I am watching are puck battles in the corners, skating and skill.

[ Photo courtesy of Gerry Thomas / Calgary Flames ]

Conroy played 507 games for the Flames in two terms, from 2001 to 2004 and again from 2007 to 2011. He had 97 goals and 211 assists for 308 points and was a +62. The Flames traded top left winger Cory Stillman to the St. Louis Blues for Conroy and a seventh round draft pick in the 2001 National Hockey League Entry Draft. “When I first got traded from St. Louis, people in Calgary weren’t very happy,” Conroy recalled. “Even Jarome (Iginla) made a comment that ‘we already have enough checkers.’ The first few days were tough. My wife was crying because the papers were ripping me. However I said, ‘They don’t know me. Hopefully, when they get to know me, they’ll like me.’” Conroy’s first full season with the Flames in 2001-02 was the best of his career. He set career highs in goals (27), assists (48), points (75), and plus/minus (+24). Conroy also was a runner-up for the Selke Trophy, presented to the top defensive forward. He lost out to Michael Peca of the New York Islanders. Conroy proved himself to the Flames fans. “It was amazing how the city embraced me. Everyone has been wonderful since then,” he said. The trade for Conroy, which was made by former Flames general manager Craig Button, was a home run. The seventh round pick turned out to be right winger David Moss, who had six productive seasons for the Flames from 2006 to 2012.

‘‘

also been a regular participant at the Flames’ annual charity golf and poker tournaments, and makes regular visits at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. Conroy has been recognized for his community service, receiving the 2009 J.R. McCaig Award and the 2010 Ralph T. Scurfield Humanitarian Award. The awards were named after two former owners of the Flames, who have both passed away. “It was very special to win the awards,” said Conroy. “You know how much they meant and how important they were to the city of Calgary.” After Conroy’s retirement, he and his family had a decision to make. Instead of returning to the United States where both he and his wife Jessie are from, the Conroys decided to stay in Calgary and raise their three daughters. “The one thing is, it is home,” said Conroy. “Looking back over the last 15 years, we had a short stint in Los Angeles (a season and a half) and a brief time in New York during the lockout. Calgary has been home for all of us. The city, in general, is a special place to live.” On the opening night of the 2016 National Hockey League Entry Draft in Buffalo, the Flames had two significant acquisitions. They selected Matt Tkachuk with their first round pick, sixth overall, and acquired goaltender Brian Elliott,

You would love a perfect player, but there aren’t

‘‘

You would love a perfect player, but there aren’t any perfect players. You have to pick the criteria that you like and see what fits for your team.”

any perfect players. You have to pick the criteria that you like and see what fits for your team.

Stillman, meanwhile, went on to play just over two seasons in St. Louis before joining the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 200304 season, where they ironically beat the Flames in seven games to win the Stanley Cup. Despite that loss, Conroy has some fond memories of being a Flame that season. “There are so many things. Definitely winning that game in overtime in Vancouver was exciting. (The Flames beat the Canucks 3-2 in game seven of the Western Conference quarterfinals on an overtime winner by Martin Gelinas). Then to beat Detroit, a team which really was a nemesis for me. While I was with St. Louis, they always seemed to knock us out.” Conroy has high praise for his long-time linemate Jarome Iginla. “(I was impressed) by the way he wanted to score goals. Players want to score goals, but Jarome took that to a whole new level. I hit the jackpot to play with one of the best goal scorers of all-time. It was pretty exciting. Jarome is also a great person and was a great teammate. He went above and beyond as a leader. I feel fortunate to have been able to play with him.” In his off-ice time in Calgary, Conroy volunteers on a regular basis with the Flames Foundation. He has promoted the Flames financial assistance program, which helps families, who cannot afford to enroll their children in hockey. He has

from the Blues, for a second round draft pick in 2016. They also got a conditional third round pick in 2018 (dependent on whether or not Elliott re-signs with the Flames). “I am very excited about Brian Elliott. We needed a goaltender and he is a guy that we targeted. To be able to get him and see how excited he is to come to Calgary, gets me excited. I think he is a little under-rated. People don’t give him enough credit,” said Conroy. “With Matt Tkachuk, I played with his dad Keith with the United States internationally (2004 World Cup and the 2006 Olympic Winter Games in Turin). In watching him all year with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League, he brings that sandpaper, gritty element. He is a guy you can win with. We are really looking forward to seeing him join our organization.” Conroy says down the road he would be interested in becoming the general manager of a NHL team. He says it would be intriguing to one day have the opportunity to call Brad Treliving and try to acquire a player from the Calgary Flames! For now, though, Conroy is enjoying his time as the Flames assistant general manager, and it is clear he enjoys living in southern Alberta. 25

SKATES

for this calgary-raised hockey player [ By Jeremy Freeborn ] At the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Team Canada was represented by a Calgaryraised hockey player. However, this hockey player did not play on ice. Dr. Matthew Guest represented Canada in men’s field hockey.

Dr. Matthew Guest

Photos Courtesy of Yan Huckendubler / Field Hockey Canada

At the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, Guest once again provided valuable offense for Team Canada. He scored three goals in six games, as Canada repeated as silver medalists. The first two goals came in a 9-1 win over Brazil and the third goal came in an 8-1 win over Mexico.

The Canadian men’s field hockey program made significant strides in the summer of 2015 when the team placed second at the Pan American Games in Toronto. The second place finish was good enough to officially qualify Canada for this past summer’s Olympic Games.

Guest’s outstanding offensive production for the Canadian team at the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico, is one of his greatest achievements in his field hockey career. In five games, Guest recorded seven goals, including two hat tricks. The first hat trick came in a 7-2 win over Trinidad and Tobago, and the second hat trick came in a 10-0 victory over Barbados. Team Canada went undefeated in the round robin, before beating Cuba 3-2 (where Guest scored in the first minute) in the semi-final and then losing 3-1 to Argentina in the gold medal game. Canada came away with the silver medal. 26

“

Field hockey is a small sport (in Canada) with a rich history of success. As a group we felt we had the responsibility of continuing the legacy of qualifying for the Olympic Games.

“

Guest, who was born in Australia on April 26, 1985, and lived in Calgary as a youth, has played regularly for Team Canada since 2008. In addition to representing Canada at the Pan American Games and the Olympic Games, Guest has represented Canada at the International Hockey Federation World League Finals, the Commonwealth Games, the Pan American Cup and the Champions Challenge.

Guest has played field hockey since the age of nine. It is around that time he briefly played ice hockey in his native Australia. Guest lived multiple times in Calgary throughout his youth because his father Robert was working on his doctorate at the University of Calgary. While in Calgary, Guest regularly played recreational field hockey, and even had the opportunity to play at McMahon Stadium. “My uncle was a huge Stampeders fan, so I remember playing there was a privilege. It was special playing in an iconic stadium in Calgary for sure.” Guest also played field hockey at an elite level in Australia, and knew he had the opportunity to play for Team Canada because his mother Sandra was originally from Lethbridge. Guest approached Field Hockey Canada and was given a tryout in 2005. By 2008, he was on the Canadian national team. When Guest first made Team Canada, his mother was very excited. “My mom is a huge patriot (of Canada),”

“I have represented Canada in multi-sport games in the past, but competing at the Olympic Games is a little more special,” said Guest, who remembers fondly singing ‘O Canada’ while walking into Maracana Stadium for the opening ceremonies. The Canadian national men’s field hockey team participated in the opening ceremonies even though they had a game against Germany the following day. “Having your friends, family and relatives there supporting you is something that was very special to all of us and is something we will remember forever.” Overall, the field hockey tournament was difficult for Team Canada. The squad managed one point in five games and were outscored 22-7 in the process. Their point came in a 2-2 draw against India on Aug. 12 in their final group B game. Team Canada did not have the overall result it would have liked, finishing 11th among 12 teams. But that doesn’t mean there weren’t moments to celebrate. Every time Team Canada scored a goal, the ‘Hockey Night in Canada’ theme song was played throughout the stadium. The fact that Guest is a high performance athlete is significant when considering he also has a degree in medicine from the University of Melbourne and works as a doctor in Australia. “It certainly comes with challenges,” said Guest. “I’ve been the beneficiary of a supportive faculty and supportive coaches, so I could pursue both endeavours equally. I guess both have taken a back seat at different times. The last few years field hockey has been more of a full-time position for me. However, I still work in a part-time position in Australia as I travel back and forth. I certainly have my challenges in terms of managing time and ensure that both endeavours get the required time they need.”

said Guest. “Well before I even thought of playing for Canada, she would have my brother and I dressed in red and white. Being Canadian is extremely important to her and is something she instilled in my brother and I. She is very proud that both of us represent Canada.”

For those interested in participating in field hockey in Calgary, contact Field Hockey Alberta at: PHONE: 403-670-0014 WEBSITE: www.fieldhockey.ab.ca

Matthew’s brother Aaron, who is a Calgary native, is also a major part of Field Hockey Canada. He is currently an assistant coach of the Canadian national junior men’s field hockey team. In looking back at his time with Team Canada, one of Guest’s special moments was playing for Canada for the first time. Even though Canada lost 5-1 to Great Britain at a tournament in South Africa, Guest remembers the game vividly. “Playing the first cap (game) was very special,” he said. In qualifying for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, Guest was honoured to help continue the history of success that Field Hockey Canada has reached over the years. “Field hockey is a small sport (in Canada) with a rich history of success,” said Guest. “As a group we felt we had the responsibility of continuing the legacy of qualifying for the Olympic Games. After missing out in 2012 in London, there was pressure on our team to get back to the Olympics. Being part of the process and the team that qualified for Rio is something I will never forget.” This was the seventh time Canada qualified for the Olympic Games in men’s field hockey as they previously played in 1964, 1976, 1984, 1988, 2000 and 2008.

CZECH IT OUT: Calling All Adult Intermediate-Level Recreational Players By Jon Hagan

Rex Tucker is a proud Canadian hockey man, but he has a passion for all things Czech. As a hockey instructor and owner of Tucker Hockey in Calgary, Rex spent seven summers (including the last two) across the pond in the Czech Republic teaching the game he loves to people who share his passion. As a head coach, he traveled with a Canadian under-18 select team on a five country European hockey tour of Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Italy and Switzerland in 2002. As a global citizen, he has been a frequent traveler to Europe, staying in Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, on 16 different occasions. To cap it off, he married Marcela, a Prague native. The Czech Republic may not be in Rex’s blood, but coming this spring he wants to show you why it’s in his soul. And for a Canadian hockey man, what better way to introduce fellow Canadians to the Czech Republic than by using our sport as the backdrop?

A HOCKEY TOUR LIKE NO OTHER In May 2017, Rex, Marcela and some Tucker Hockey staff will lead participants on a-once-in-a-lifetime hockey tour to experience the sights, sounds, and the ice of seven storied Czech and Austrian cities. “The cities we’ll be visiting on the tour are quite beautiful, but nothing like what we have in Canada,” says Rex. “Prague -where we’ll be spending most of our time -- is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It has incredible architecture, and the culture, just like the beer, is second to none.” The tour, which runs from May 7 to May 20, is open to male and female intermediate-level recreational players. It will include a number of hockey and non-hockey-related activities, such as arrival and departure receptions for all tour participants, a five-game hockey series in cities in the Czech Republic and Austria, and three to four-star hotel accommodations along the way. The cost of the tour will also include most meals, travel to and from various attractions, and group travel attire for all participants, including a personalized game jersey. 28

Prague Castle

TIME FOR YOURSELF From tours and dinners to practices and games, each day will have a Tucker Hockey event planned, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have spare time to branch out on your own. There will be plenty of opportunity for you to set out and explore the sights for yourself, if you so choose. “The tour will feature something for everyone. It will be a great opportunity for tour participants to play hockey against players they normally wouldn’t get a chance to play against, learn from Czech coaches and build new friendships and expand their cultural boundaries,” says Rex. “And in the remaining time, which we’ve certainly allotted, if they want to get out and explore on their own, Marcela and I will be there to provide them with any information they need to help them get around.”

Charles Bridge

ABOUT TUCKER HOCKEY Tucker Hockey (1997) based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, provides quality year-round professional ice hockey instruction including power skating, and hockey skills development to players of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels to grow their love of the game while improving their hockey skills.

STAYING INFORMED HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER Once a down payment is received and registration is finalized, Rex will hold information meetings in Calgary with participants to discuss itinerary and other details. “These meetings are pivotal,” says Rex. “They help everybody get on the same page and to make sure everyone’s questions are answered.” Don’t despair, if you’re unable to attend any of the meetings, though. Rex has you covered. “People can always call me up and I’ll spend whatever time is needed to make sure I answer all their questions and give them the most up-to-date information I have,” he says.

Rex and Marcela enjoying the IIHF World Hockey Championship festivities in Prague.

BLAST OFF!

“

What better way to introduce fellow Canadians to the Czech Republic than by using our sport as the backdrop?

The next step is for all participants to make their own way to Prague for May 7. “We wanted to give a day for everyone to orient themselves. Then we’ll all come together the next day on May 8 for the welcome reception, which should be a great time,” says Rex.

“

Rex and his team at Tucker Hockey have put a significant amount of planning into the tour. Rex has drawn on the contacts he has made over the years in the Czech hockey community to create a truly unique event for everyone who participates. Beyond that, the Tour offers an introduction to Prague as a great home base for exploring other parts of Europe. “Prague offers flexibility in that it’s so centrally located,” says Rex. “You’re basically an hour away from Paris, Venice, or Zurich, for example, so if people want to come a bit earlier than May 7 or stay later than May 20 they’ll be able to visit other places as well.” While family members can certainly register, there’s only space left for 16 players to represent the hockey team in the practices and games.

Old Town Square

So, if you’re an avid intermediate-level recreational hockey player and you’re interested in learning more about Tucker Hockey’s 2017 European Adult Hockey Tour, call Rex at (403) 244-5037 or visit

http://www.tuckerhockey.com/PDF/Adult%20European%20Tour%202017.pdf

The BiggesT LiTTLe CoLLeCTor shop in edmonTon

“

I love that (the Flames) contacted me early. They showed how big a part they wanted me to be in the franchise and on their team. Gio was the first one to call me. He just reiterated how good the group of guys are, how tight-knit they are, that they want to play for each other, they want to win for each other, which are huge intangibles that you have to have. The enthusiasm that they showed with me as a person and a player, it went a long way with me and my family and that played a big part in our decision.

West edmonton Coin & stamp #1390 West Edmonton Mall Lower Level, Phase 4 780-444-1156

“

~ Troy Brouwer on his decision to become a Flame

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T H G I L SPOT L A I C I F F O N A ON TATE R E B U A L [ By Rob Suggitt ]

We met up with 18-year-old Tate Lauber in early September, just as he was getting ready for the 2016-2017 hockey season. Tate is in his sixth season as a minor hockey official, starting out when he was only 13 years old. Tate has progressed well as an official, and credits this to experience (games officiated) as the biggest reason why. Tate is currently enrolled in the culinary arts in his first year of college, and while he “retired” from playing hockey two seasons ago, he plans on officiating for years to come. Tate took the time to answer a few questions on how he got involved in officiating and what he likes most about officiating minor hockey. Calgary Hockey Magazine (CHM) : When did you start officiating hockey? Tate Lauber: My first ref assignment was October 8, 2011. I reffed novice 8 with a second year ref, Scott Kramers, who is only a year older than I am. I was very short! Most of the novice players were all taller than I was. This always forced me to be a bit tougher as the coaches on the bench always felt I was too young to ref.

TL: I did over 50 games last season, and I will probably do the same if not more this season. CHM: What level of hockey are you currently officiating? TL: I push lines for bantam AA’s, and call some bantam games. CHM: Do you have any highlights related to big games or tournaments to pass along?

CHM: What made you want to become a hockey official? TL: Initially, for the money and now it is a passion of mine.

TL: I did some reffing for retired professional hockey players: Ryan Smyth and Georges Laraque were among the players involved in a charitable event last year. (Hockey Helps the Homeless which was featured in a past edition of the Hockey Edmonton Magazine.)

CHM: How many games did you officiate last season, and how many games do you plan on working this season?

CHM: What do you enjoy about officiating hockey games? TL: The adrenalin and the power I have once the jersey comes on. 31

CHM: What is the toughest part about being a referee? TL: Having two games on the same day that are at different rinks.

CHM: What kind of training were/are you provided? TL: I had to do the standard training everyone has to go through, as well as I took a linesman clinic. CHM: Do you have a role model or mentor who has helped you along the way?

CHM: Have you ever suffered any injuries as an official? Any close calls?

TL: My dad (Ross). He hasn’t so much taught me about reffing, however, he has been to every game, supporting all the calls I make.

TL: I took a puck to the ribs once, but nothing serious.

CHM: How have you improved your skills as an official? TL: I am more vocal now and I try to make eye contact with my partner so that we stay in sync.

CHM: How do you handle criticism on the ice?

CHM: How did you have the composure at such a young age to officiate hockey?

CHM: Do you have any comments you wish to share with parents, coaches or anyone else watching minor hockey?

TL: I started out with pre-novice, and lower tiers, so the pressure was not too intense to begin with, and then you just progress from there.

TL: By listening to what they have to say, and usually correcting them.

TL: Not really. After all, they are part of the reason the job never gets boring or dull.

CHM: Do you hear the parents in the stands, or the coaches on the bench, when they’re yelling about calls? TL: I just try to focus, but sometimes my brain wanders, and then I remind myself to tune out (of the noise coming from the stands), and focus on the game.

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T O P S T H G I LReferee Signals Boarding If a player is checked into the boards in a violent manner, then the referee may call a boarding penalty. A two minute penalty will be given for boarding, and in situations where the offense is more serious (when a player is vulnerable, etc), a five minute major penalty and game ejection may be called.

Body Checking Body-checking is not allowed until the bantam level. Delivering a body-check in the lower divisions will result in a two minute penalty being given. The refereeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signal is an arm across the chest with a flat hand.

Butt Ending If a player jabs (or attempts to jab) another player with the shaft of his or her stick above the upper hand, a butt-ending penalty may be called. The referee holds one forearm over the other, the upper hand flat and the lower hand makes a fist.

Charging If a player takes more than two steps or strides, or jumps into an opponent when body-checking, a charging infraction may be called. The referee signals this call by rotating clenched fists around each other in front of the chest.

Checking From Behind If a player pushes, body-checks or cross checks an opponent from behind, a checking from behind penalty may be called. It is a game misconduct (ejection), coupled with a two or five minute penalty, depending on the severity of the offense.

Checking To The Head A minor or major penalty, depending on the degree of violence of impact and shall be assessed to any player who checks an opponent in the head area. A match penalty could also be assessed under this rule. If a player is injured, a major and game misconduct penalty or match penalty must be assessed.

Cross Checking When a player uses the shaft of his stick, held between the hands, to check an opponent. The referee signals with a pushing motion of the arms, fists clenched and shoulder-width apart. (This signal imitates the action of a cross check.)

Elbowing The referee may call an elbowing penalty when a player hits or checks an opponent using his elbow. The referee signals by grabbing either elbow with the opposite hand.

High Sticking This occurs when an an opponent is checked by another playerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stick held above the normal height of the shoulders. A more severe penalty may be called for flagrant high-sticking fouls, including ejection from the game. The referee signals this call by clenching their fists and mimicking a player holding a stick above their shoulders. 33

Holding This is called when a player grabs the opponents body or stick and holds them back from play. The referee motions this call by grabbing either wrist with the opposite hand.

Hooking This penalty is called when a player slows down an opponent by hooking his stick on any part of the opponent’s body or stick. The referee signals this call with a pulling motion with both arms as if holding a stick.

Interference This penalty is called when a player impedes the progress of an opponent who does not have the puck. The referee signals this call by crossing his or her arms across the chest.

Kneeing If a player uses his knee (this includes sticking his knee out) to take down or check an opponent, the referee may call a kneeing penalty. If the infraction is of a more serious nature, the referee may consider a major and a game misconduct instead of a minor penalty. The referee signals this by bending down and grabbing his knee.

Misconduct This penalty may be called when a player demonstrates extreme and inappropriate behaviour toward another player or a game official. Depending on the severity of the offense, the player may be given a ten minute misconduct penalty. The penalized team, in this case, does not play shorthanded, unless there is contact involved. 34

Roughing This player may be called when a player uses his arms or fists to hit another player. The referee’s signal for this is a clenched fist extended out to the front or side of the body.

Slashing This penalty is called when a player deliberately hits an opponent with his stick. The signal for this call is a flat hand chopping down on the opposite forearm.

Spearing Spearing occurs when a player thrusts or jabs the blade of his stick toward an opponent. Players are usually ejected from the game for spearing. The signal for this call is similar to hooking, however instead of a pulling motion with both arms toward the body, it is an outward jabbing motion.

Tripping This penalty may be called when a player uses his or her stick or any body part to trip the opponent with the puck. However, if the player touches the puck prior to contact with the other player, there is usually no penalty called. The referee signals this call by bending down and striking their leg with their hand, below the knee.

Unsportsmanlike Conduct This penalty may be called when a player exhibits poor sportsmanlike or inappropriate behaviour on the ice. A “T” is made with the hands to signal this call.

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