I was having trouble coming up with something to write about today so proceeded to do what I always do when in this predicament and that is find something clever that someone else has written about and share that on my blog. As I was traveling around the web and social media it dawned on me that it might be useful to share some of the places to find information for those of you that can't get enough hockey info. So for those of you that are always pining for more information this blog post is for you. For you diehard fans there may be little new but lets hope there is at least one idea, location, or site you find helpful. This is not intended to be all inclusive and you are encouraged to share your "go to" places in the comments section at the end of the post.
WEB SITES:
Team web sites are the obvious place to start when trying to find the latest information. Looking at all of the CHL team sites is a good way to find out what is happening around the CHL. It is also a good way to see how your team stacks up with others around the CHL in "quality of web site." For Allen fans the site is allenamericans.com
- centralhockeyleague.com: News and Information, Stats, Standings, & Schedules are on the site but it also includes the complete CHL rule book, all time records, playoff format, and list of CHL staff with contact information.
- phpa.com: This is the site of the Professional Hockey Players Association (PHPA). This site contains an executive summary of the collective bargaining agreements (CBA) for the CHL as well as the AHL & ECHL. Want to know about the salary cap, veteran rules, per diem, injured reserve, playoff pool, minimum salary, what equipment the team must provide each player? You can find it all here.
- hockeydb.com: This site has what they call the largest hockey data base on the internet. You can search by player or team and get a wealth of information. Want to know the most penalty minutes coach Steve Martinson had in a season as a player, it is easy to find. He had 432 penalty minutes in 1985-1986 playing for the Hershey Bears (AHL). He added 56 more minutes in three playoffs games.
- eliteprospects.com: This site is similar to hockeydb but does a better job of tracking players playing overseas. It also has some great screens such as the shortest, tallest, lightest, heaviest, oldest & youngest players by league. It currently shows Alex Lavoie as the second youngest and lightest player signed thus far in the CHL. The more you move around in this site the more information you discover.
- pointstreak.com: Pointstreak is the software that many sports teams including the CHL use as their real time scoring and official league statistics. The statistical information in news releases and blogs usually comes from pointstreak. Again, the more you move around their web site the more useful info you will find.
- chlforums.com: This is a site created by fans and for fans. There is a section for each CHL team and fans can discuss whatever is on their minds. An opportunity to share your views and engage others about your team or other teams in the league. While you have to wade through some posts that don't add much value some of the most knowledgeable fans from around the CHL are regular contributors on this forum. Many times you can find out what is happening before any official announcements are made. You need to register to post but can view without registering.
- hockeymayhem.com: similar to chlforums.com but has sections for all hockey leagues. Easy to navigate and see what is happening. Not as active as chlforums.com
- dropyourgloves.com: this site tracks hockey fights and you can search by league, team or player. If you look at CHL stats for last year you will find Allen had the most fights (91) while Denver was second (73). If you search new Allen defenseman Ross Rouleau you will find he had four fights last year while playing for Fort Worth. All four were against Allen as he fought Adam Pineault, Mike Berube, Darryl Bootland & Jim McKenzie. This is a fun site to search for your favorite players past or present.
Social Media:
Twitter is great for those fans that can't get enough information about their team. All you need to do is sign up (very easy) and you can start following your favorite players as well as others that frequently post information about CHL hockey. It takes very little time and you can decide who you want to follow. For those of you already on twitter here are a few of my favorite people to follow for hockey information.
@Stars_Insider
@YahooPuckDaddy
@darrlywolski
@SPHL_Nation
@SinBinMavs
@ML_HockeyReport
@americansblog
@American_Fans
@CHLprohockey
@100degreehockey
@prohockeynews
@allenamericans
@RobLoeber1
@osctoday
@jmals24
@shannaleighwray
I did not list any Allen Americans current or former players, players wives/girlfriends, agents, team staff, or other CHL teams which are all useful to follow. I did list a couple of broadcasters I follow from other teams and one player's wife from another team who writes a blog and is extremely humorous (sorry Shanna). I'm sure I have left out many other people to follow including many fans who provide much useful information.
Facebook is another great way to keep up with information about your team. There are many Facebook pages you can "Like" that will feed you information.
Here are the official sites for the Allen Americans:
WEB: allenamericans.com
Facebook: Allen Americans
Twitter: @allenamericans
Twitter: @tommydaniels99
Finally the information for this blog. If you are on Facebook please give the page a "Like" and if you are on Twitter please give me a "Follow"
WEB: allenamericansblog.blogspot.com
Facebook: Allen Americans Blog
Twitter: @allenamericans1
Now, I just need an idea for tomorrow. I am hoping to sit down with Americans head coach Steve Martinson this week to get his take on the upcoming season and am also working on the "20 Questions" series with some of the new players. Hoping to complete Phil Fox and Jonathan Lessard this week.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Jonathan Lessard Interview & Fogal Stats
The Allen Americans announced two additional player signings yesterday.
Goalie Brad Fogal is familiar to Allen fans from his time with the Brahmas the past two years and joins fellow Brahma teammates John Snowden, Phil Fox, and Ross Rouleau in what some Fort Worth fans refer to as Brahmas East. Let's hope some of them come to the Allen Event Center to watch a few games this year. Brad seemed to play particularly well against the Americans. You may also remember Brad got caught up in the Brahmas financial problems as he was injured and rehabbing when the club ceased operations after the end of the season and from what I heard he was literally kicked out of his apartment and never compensated as required by the collective bargaining agreement. He is going to enjoy how he is treated in Allen. Last year Brad was 15-12 with a goals against average of 2.72 and a save percentage of 90.2%. For those of you on twitter give Brad a follow (@bfogal).
Fogal's stats:
- Jonathan Lessard is a 22 year old right wing from St. Eustache Quebec. He is six feet and weighs 190 pounds, shoots left and plays right wing. He is friends with and also trains with Alex Lavoie who signed earlier with the Americans. I had a chance to exchange messages with Jonathan and he is working hard to get ready for the upcoming season and is looking forward to his time in North Texas. Lessard agreed to answer some "get to know you" questions (20 of them) and is in the process of responding but in the meantime I found this recent article written by Andreas Matsoukas who writes a blog called oddmanrush.ca which gives you some background on Jonathan. I'm guessing he will be wearing number 91 with the Americans. For those of you on twitter give Jonathan a follow (@top_cheese91)
By
In this player interview, we will be featuring Jonathan Lessard from St. Eustache, Quebec.
After a brief stint in Drummondvile playing the for QMJHL’s Voltigeurs, Jonathan spent his next three seasons with Acadie-Bathurst, scoring over 35 goals in two of those years. In his last year of junior hockey playing with Baie Comeau, Lessard put up 27 goals in just 50 games, adding another 6 goals in 8 games as he helped his team make it to the second round of the QMJHL playoffs.
Following his “Q” days, Jonathan Lessard then attended training camp with the ECHL’s San Francisco Bulls in the fall of 2012 before signing a contract to play in the North American Hockey League with the Saint-Georges Cool FM 103.5.
In January, Lessard made his ECHL debut with the Bulls where he scored 5 points in 23 games in limited ice time. He then was traded to the Utah Grizzlies.
Here is my conversation with Jonathan Lessard (translated from french).
For people who are unfamiliar with you, tell us what type of game you like to play. Is there anyone you model your game after?
I think Alex Burrows is someone I’ve been compared to a lot. I also watched Bryan Bickell in last season’s NHL playoffs. He plays the type of game I’d like to play, but Burrows is the one I’m compared to most.
Having played in the QMJHL, ECHL and North American Hockey League, and heading into a new season where you’ll be playing in the Central Hockey League, have you found any significant differences between the different leagues?
The Q and the ECHL are pretty similar in terms of preparation. Players take things very seriously. The main difference between those leagues is that in junior, the guys are probably a tighter group, whereas in the ECHL everyone is much more professional, most of the time doing their own thing to prepare. The NAHL didn’t include much preparation so that was a very different experience.
The NAHL has a reputation of being a very tough league.
The 4th lines are pretty much all fighters, with some 3rd lines having a few as well. I’d say the league has evolved a lot in the last five years though and you’re seeing much more talent now.
A good example is Jesse Belanger, who won the Stanley Cup with Montreal in 1993. Granted he’s closer to the end than the beginning of his career at this point, but it’s becoming a destination for many players who perhaps are nearing the end of their pro careers but can still play at a reasonably high level.
Your dream is obviously to play in the NHL. Whether you’re playing in the ECHL, NAHL or CHL, does your preparation in terms of reaching that goal change?
In the summer, I always like knowing where I’m going to play the following season because it makes my mental preparation easier. This season for example, I’ve already signed my contract to play for the Allen Americans in the CHL.
I train in the off-season in Boisbrians with quite a wide variety of players from all levels including the NHL, ECHL and junior. I’d say the big difference I’ve noticed in watching the pros train is that guys like Pascal Dupuis work the hardest on the little details. He’s there at 8 am and is always one of the last guys to leave.
From the guys you know and have spent time with, do you find a difference in the personalities of guys who have signed big-money contracts?
Well, Pascal Dupuis is a great example of a guy who has made quite a bit of money in the NHL, as has Alex Burrows. I train with both guys and they’re both really good guys and have always respected me even though I’m not an NHL player. I don’t find the money has changed the guys I’ve interacted with.
Are there any charities you like getting involved with, or that you prefer to support?
This summer I wouldn’ve really liked to play in a tournament in Drummondville benefiting Enfant Soleil, but I wasn’t able to make it. I did however participate in a ball hockey tournament where my team won the Championship. We donated half of our prize to the foundation.
I’m always willing to help, whether it’s by participation or donations, especially with my mother having battled breast cancer. I think it’s important to help when we can because while the time and money we donate won’t really affect us, it may make all the difference to someone else’s life.
Thank you very much for your time Jonathan and best of luck this season.
Lessard's stats:
Goalie Brad Fogal is familiar to Allen fans from his time with the Brahmas the past two years and joins fellow Brahma teammates John Snowden, Phil Fox, and Ross Rouleau in what some Fort Worth fans refer to as Brahmas East. Let's hope some of them come to the Allen Event Center to watch a few games this year. Brad seemed to play particularly well against the Americans. You may also remember Brad got caught up in the Brahmas financial problems as he was injured and rehabbing when the club ceased operations after the end of the season and from what I heard he was literally kicked out of his apartment and never compensated as required by the collective bargaining agreement. He is going to enjoy how he is treated in Allen. Last year Brad was 15-12 with a goals against average of 2.72 and a save percentage of 90.2%. For those of you on twitter give Brad a follow (@bfogal).
 |
| Brad Fogal - photo by chlphotos.com |
Fogal's stats:
Brad Fogal
Goalie -- shoots R
Born -- Sharon, ONT
[27 yrs. ago]
Height 5.10 -- Weight 170 [178 cm/77 kg]
Born -- Sharon, ONT
[27 yrs. ago]
Height 5.10 -- Weight 170 [178 cm/77 kg]
| RS Scoring | RS Goalie Stats | PO Scoring | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season | Team | Lge | GP | A | PIM | Min | GA | EN | SO | GAA | W | L | T | Svs | Pct | GP | A | PIM |
| 2004-05 | Huntsville Otters | OPJHL | 22 | 0 | 12 | |||||||||||||
| 2004-05 | Newmarket Hurricanes | OPJHL | 7 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| 2005-06 | Newmarket Hurricanes | OPJHL | 38 | 3 | 14 | |||||||||||||
| 2006-07 | Newmarket Hurricanes | OPJHL | 10 | 0 | 4 | |||||||||||||
| 2006-07 | Pickering Panthers | OPJHL | 31 | 3 | 6 | |||||||||||||
| 2007-08 | Adrian College | MCHA | 22 | 0 | 4 | 1220 | 38 | 0 | 5 | 1.87 | 20 | 2 | 0 | 479 | 0.926 | |||
| 2008-09 | Adrian College | MCHA | 27 | 0 | 0 | 1517 | 42 | 0 | 5 | 1.66 | 25 | 1 | 1 | 539 | 0.928 | |||
| 2009-10 | Adrian College | MCHA | 27 | 2 | 0 | 1562 | 61 | 0 | 2 | 2.34 | 23 | 4 | 0 | 644 | 0.913 | |||
| 2010-11 | Adrian College | MCHA | 30 | 1 | 2 | 1752 | 65 | 0 | 1 | 2.23 | 25 | 4 | 1 | 774 | 0.923 | |||
| 2011-12 | Quad City Mallards | CHL | 10 | 2 | 0 | 547 | 28 | 0 | 0 | 3.07 | 6 | 2 | 0 | 281 | 0.909 | - | - | - |
| 2011-12 | Cincinnati Cyclones | ECHL | 11 | 0 | 0 | 625 | 29 | 1 | 0 | 2.78 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 264 | 0.901 | - | - | - |
| 2011-12 | Kalamazoo Wings | ECHL | 1 | 0 | 0 | 59 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2.04 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 19 | 0.905 | - | - | - |
| 2011-12 | Texas Brahmas | CHL | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 9 | 0 | 0 |
| 2012-13 | Fort Worth Brahmas | CHL | 32 | 2 | 0 | 1723 | 78 | 0 | 2 | 2.72 | 15 | 12 | 2 | 716 | 0.902 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
- Jonathan Lessard is a 22 year old right wing from St. Eustache Quebec. He is six feet and weighs 190 pounds, shoots left and plays right wing. He is friends with and also trains with Alex Lavoie who signed earlier with the Americans. I had a chance to exchange messages with Jonathan and he is working hard to get ready for the upcoming season and is looking forward to his time in North Texas. Lessard agreed to answer some "get to know you" questions (20 of them) and is in the process of responding but in the meantime I found this recent article written by Andreas Matsoukas who writes a blog called oddmanrush.ca which gives you some background on Jonathan. I'm guessing he will be wearing number 91 with the Americans. For those of you on twitter give Jonathan a follow (@top_cheese91)
By
After a brief stint in Drummondvile playing the for QMJHL’s Voltigeurs, Jonathan spent his next three seasons with Acadie-Bathurst, scoring over 35 goals in two of those years. In his last year of junior hockey playing with Baie Comeau, Lessard put up 27 goals in just 50 games, adding another 6 goals in 8 games as he helped his team make it to the second round of the QMJHL playoffs.
Following his “Q” days, Jonathan Lessard then attended training camp with the ECHL’s San Francisco Bulls in the fall of 2012 before signing a contract to play in the North American Hockey League with the Saint-Georges Cool FM 103.5.
In January, Lessard made his ECHL debut with the Bulls where he scored 5 points in 23 games in limited ice time. He then was traded to the Utah Grizzlies.
Here is my conversation with Jonathan Lessard (translated from french).
For people who are unfamiliar with you, tell us what type of game you like to play. Is there anyone you model your game after?
I think Alex Burrows is someone I’ve been compared to a lot. I also watched Bryan Bickell in last season’s NHL playoffs. He plays the type of game I’d like to play, but Burrows is the one I’m compared to most.
Having played in the QMJHL, ECHL and North American Hockey League, and heading into a new season where you’ll be playing in the Central Hockey League, have you found any significant differences between the different leagues?
The Q and the ECHL are pretty similar in terms of preparation. Players take things very seriously. The main difference between those leagues is that in junior, the guys are probably a tighter group, whereas in the ECHL everyone is much more professional, most of the time doing their own thing to prepare. The NAHL didn’t include much preparation so that was a very different experience.
The NAHL has a reputation of being a very tough league.
The 4th lines are pretty much all fighters, with some 3rd lines having a few as well. I’d say the league has evolved a lot in the last five years though and you’re seeing much more talent now.
A good example is Jesse Belanger, who won the Stanley Cup with Montreal in 1993. Granted he’s closer to the end than the beginning of his career at this point, but it’s becoming a destination for many players who perhaps are nearing the end of their pro careers but can still play at a reasonably high level.
Your dream is obviously to play in the NHL. Whether you’re playing in the ECHL, NAHL or CHL, does your preparation in terms of reaching that goal change?
In the summer, I always like knowing where I’m going to play the following season because it makes my mental preparation easier. This season for example, I’ve already signed my contract to play for the Allen Americans in the CHL.
I train in the off-season in Boisbrians with quite a wide variety of players from all levels including the NHL, ECHL and junior. I’d say the big difference I’ve noticed in watching the pros train is that guys like Pascal Dupuis work the hardest on the little details. He’s there at 8 am and is always one of the last guys to leave.
From the guys you know and have spent time with, do you find a difference in the personalities of guys who have signed big-money contracts?
Well, Pascal Dupuis is a great example of a guy who has made quite a bit of money in the NHL, as has Alex Burrows. I train with both guys and they’re both really good guys and have always respected me even though I’m not an NHL player. I don’t find the money has changed the guys I’ve interacted with.
Are there any charities you like getting involved with, or that you prefer to support?
This summer I wouldn’ve really liked to play in a tournament in Drummondville benefiting Enfant Soleil, but I wasn’t able to make it. I did however participate in a ball hockey tournament where my team won the Championship. We donated half of our prize to the foundation.
I’m always willing to help, whether it’s by participation or donations, especially with my mother having battled breast cancer. I think it’s important to help when we can because while the time and money we donate won’t really affect us, it may make all the difference to someone else’s life.
Thank you very much for your time Jonathan and best of luck this season.
Lessard's stats:
Jonathan Lessard
Right Wing -- shoots L
Born -- St-Eustache, PQ
[22 yrs. ago]
Height 6.00 -- Weight 190 [183 cm/86 kg]
Born -- St-Eustache, PQ
[22 yrs. ago]
Height 6.00 -- Weight 190 [183 cm/86 kg]
| Regular Season | Playoffs | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season | Team | Lge | GP | G | A | Pts | PIM | +/- | GP | G | A | Pts | PIM |
| 2007-08 | Drummondville Voltigeurs | QMJHL | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2008-09 | Acadie-Bathurst Titan | QMJHL | 68 | 14 | 16 | 30 | 55 | -14 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 14 |
| 2009-10 | Acadie-Bathurst Titan | QMJHL | 68 | 36 | 28 | 64 | 62 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 |
| 2010-11 | Acadie-Bathurst Titan | QMJHL | 62 | 37 | 29 | 66 | 70 | 7 | 4 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| 2011-12 | Baie-Comeau Drakkar | QMJHL | 50 | 27 | 11 | 38 | 64 | -11 | 8 | 6 | 2 | 8 | 6 |
| 2012-13 | Trois Rivieres Caron and Guay | LNAH | 16 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 6 | -8 | |||||
| 2012-13 | San Francisco Bulls | ECHL | 23 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 24 | -4 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 2012-13 | Utah Grizzlies | ECHL | 8 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 2 | -2 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
Friday, September 20, 2013
Exodus to ECHL?, CHL Rosters, Graham & Dacosta
- With the announcement yesterday that Aaron Dell has signed with the ECHL Utah Grizzlies (joining Adam Pineault who signed earlier) it made me wonder if the CHL has lost more players than usual to the ECHL this year. There are always debates about the quality of the two leagues and having talked to many "hockey experts" my conclusion is the top players in the CHL are top players in the ECHL (Chad Costello & Colton Yellow Horn are a couple of good recent examples) but the ECHL is recognized by many as a better league that is younger and faster than the CHL and has more depth than the CHL. Dell is the sixth player from the Allen championship roster (Maiani, Pineault, Daniels, Clarke, Aneloski & Dell) to jump to the ECHL. On the current Allen Americans roster for 2013-2014 there are no players that have come from the ECHL. I haven't taken the time to go through the roster changes of each CHL team but if the Americans are any indication the CHL is losing top quality players to the ECHL and getting fewer in return.
- Congrats to former Allen Americans player Justin Dacosta (2010-2011) who has just been selected captain of his team, the Fife Flyers of the EIHL. Justin played for former Americans coach Dwight Mullins in Elmira (ECHL) last year.
- Put this in the rumor category but one player that is yet unsigned to play this season is Allen Americans all time scorer, Bruce Graham (2009-2012). There was lots of talk on the grapevine a couple of months ago that Bruce was contemplating a return to Allen after a very successful championship season in England (Nottingham) last year. But the grapevine chatter waned and the latest "rumor" is Bruce is going to retire. It was exciting to think about he and Whitney and the girls returning for one more crack at the championship but now you just wonder if he will hang it up at the ripe old age of 27.
- With AHL training camps starting up as soon as Sunday you have to wonder if any players other than Kerbashian will be attending an AHL camp. Let's hope so as the Americans have always sent numerous players to AHL camps.
- Haven't posted the rosters for each team in the CHL for a while. This is compiled by the league office based on contracts sent in by the individual teams. Though it is updated frequently (this version is as of September 18th) there are always differences between this list and what the teams have announced. The list for the Americans does not include Pitton, Grantham & Bootland and it has not deleted Clarke. Here is the list:
Allen Americans
Transactions:
Tyler Ludwig (D) - re-signed
Trevor Ludwig (D) - re-signed
John Snowden (F) - signed
Phil Fox (F) -signed
Alex Lavoie (F) - signed
Garrett Clarke (D) - re-signed
Daniel Tetrault (D) - signed
Trevor Hendrikx (D) - re-signed
Jim McKenzie (F) - re-signed
Jarret Lukin (F) - re-signed
Ross Rouleau (D) - signed
Mike Berube (D) - re-signed
Alex Bourret (F) - signed
Kale Kerbashian (F) - re-signed
Arizona Sundogs
Transactions:
Named Kevin Colley Head Coach
Named Gord Burnett Assistant Coach
Jason Morgan (F) - re-signed
Kevin Baker (F) - re-signed
Henric Hoglund (F) - signed
Ryan Gaucher (D) - signed
Matt McCready (D) - re-signed
Jade Galbraith (F) - signed
Jordan Clendenning (F) - signed
Dion Campbell (F) - signed
Joe Tolles (D) - signed
Mike Kavanagh (D) - signed
Bryce Reddick (F) - signed
Brodie Zuk (F) - signed
David Brown (G) - re-signed
Brampton Beast
Transactions:
Named Mark DeSantis Head Coach
Named Brent Hughes Assistant Coach
Brett Smith (F) - signed
Calin Wild (F) - signed
Jason Pitton (F) - signed
Tylor Michel (F) - signed
Michael Couch (D) - signed
Rob Collins (F) - signed
Josh McQuade (F) - signed
Kris Westblom (G) - signed
Erik Spady (D) - signed
Mitchell Good (F) - signed
Andrew Darrigo (D) - signed
Denver Cutthroats
Transactions:
Sean Zimmerman (D) - re-signed
T.J. Fox (F) - signed
Troy Schwab (F) - re-signed
J.P. Chabot (F) - re-signed
Matt Glasser (F) - signed
A.J. Gale (F) - re-signed
Aaron MacKenzie (D) - re-signed
Garett Bembridge (F) - signed
Missouri Mavericks
Transactions:
John-Scott Dickson (F) - re-signed
David Pszenyczny (D) - re-signed
Sebastien Thinel (F) - re-sined
Andrew Courtney (F) - re-signed
Colt King (F) - re-signed
Evan Vossen (F) - re-signed
Trevor Kell (F) - re-signed
Kyle Hood (F) - re-signed
Mike Ramsay (F) - signed
Shane Owen (G) - signed
Colten Hayes (D) - signed
Matt Stephenson (D) - signed
Anders Franzon (D) - signed
Tyler Currier (D) - signed
Joe Howe (G) - signed
Erno Suomalainen (G) - signed
Rob Kleebaum (F) - signed
Quad City Mallards
Transactions:
Darren McMillan (D) - re-signed
Jeff Lee (F) - signed
Matt Boyd (F) - re-signed
Mike Grace (D) - signed
Thomas Frazee (F) - signed
Tyler Melancon (F) - signed
Nick Grasso (D) - signed
Matt Carlson (D) - signed
Thomas Heemskerk (G) - signed
Matt Duffy (D) - re-signed
Rob Dongara (F) - signed
Brendan Turner (F) - signed
Tony Rizzi (F) - signed
Philippe Trudeau (G) - signed
John Heffernan (F) - signed
Benjamin Dieude-Fauvel (D) - signed
Mike Stinziani (F) - re-signed
Tyler Yaworski (D) - signed
Jordan Lane (D) - signed
Vladimir Nikiforov (F) - signed
Rapid City Rush
Transactions:
Acquired rights to Gio Flamminio (D) from Tulsa and signed him to contract in exchange for the rights to Dan Gendur (F) and Jordan Baker (F)
Konrad Reeder (F) - signed
Jared Brown (F) - re-signed
Jesse Schultz (F) - re-signed
Riley Weselowski (D) - re-signed
Tristin Llewellyn (D) - re-signed
Kyle Stroh (F) - re-signed
Justin Faryna (F) - re-signed
Winston Day Chief (F) - re-signed
Justin Sawyer (D) - re-signed
Eric Giosa (F) - signed
Ryan Palmer (D) - signed
St. Charles Chill
Transactions:
Named Jamie Rivers Head Coach
Jordan Fox (F) - signed
Kyle Kraemer (F) - signed
Tony DeHart (D) - signed
Kyle O'Kane (F) - signed
Kevin McFarland (G) - signed
Chad Costello (F) - signed
Riley Emmerson (D) - signed
Steve Makway (D) - signed
Tulsa Oilers
Transactions:
Acquired rights to Dan Gendur (F) and Jordan Baker (F) from Rapid City in exchange for the rights to Gio Flamminio (D)
Todd Robinson (F) - signed
Ben Gordon (F) - re-signed
Tomas Klempa (F) - signed
Drew Fisher (F) - re-signed
Shane Madolora (G) - re-signed
Brandon Coccimiglio (F) - signed
Sy Nutkevitch (F) - signed
Ryan Barlock (D) - re-signed
Jeff Buvinow (D) - re-signed
Andrew Himmelson (D) - signed
Andy Willigar (D) - signed
Kyle Leahy (F) - signed
Brett Skalski (F) - signed
Neilsson Arcibal (F) - signed
Nathan Lutz (D) - signed
Jarred Mohr (D) - signed
Ryan Menei (F) - re-signed
Thomas Beauregard (F) - signed
Wichita Thunder
Transactions:
Jon Booras (F) - signed
Jesse Dudas (D) - signed
Andrew Martens (D) - re-signed
Matt Summers (F) - re-signed
RG Flath (F) - re-signed
Ian Lowe (F) - re-signed
Matt Robinson (F) - re-signed
Torrie Jung (G) - re-signed
Taylor Nelson (G) - signed
Kalvin Sagert (D) - signed
Travis Wight (D) - re-signed
Jon Madden (D) - re-signed
Jared Walker (F) - signed
Dustin Donaghy (F) - re-signed
Nik Yaremchuk (F) - signed
Burke Gallimore (F) - signed
- Congrats to former Allen Americans player Justin Dacosta (2010-2011) who has just been selected captain of his team, the Fife Flyers of the EIHL. Justin played for former Americans coach Dwight Mullins in Elmira (ECHL) last year.
- Put this in the rumor category but one player that is yet unsigned to play this season is Allen Americans all time scorer, Bruce Graham (2009-2012). There was lots of talk on the grapevine a couple of months ago that Bruce was contemplating a return to Allen after a very successful championship season in England (Nottingham) last year. But the grapevine chatter waned and the latest "rumor" is Bruce is going to retire. It was exciting to think about he and Whitney and the girls returning for one more crack at the championship but now you just wonder if he will hang it up at the ripe old age of 27.
- With AHL training camps starting up as soon as Sunday you have to wonder if any players other than Kerbashian will be attending an AHL camp. Let's hope so as the Americans have always sent numerous players to AHL camps.
- Haven't posted the rosters for each team in the CHL for a while. This is compiled by the league office based on contracts sent in by the individual teams. Though it is updated frequently (this version is as of September 18th) there are always differences between this list and what the teams have announced. The list for the Americans does not include Pitton, Grantham & Bootland and it has not deleted Clarke. Here is the list:
Allen Americans
Transactions:
Tyler Ludwig (D) - re-signed
Trevor Ludwig (D) - re-signed
John Snowden (F) - signed
Phil Fox (F) -signed
Alex Lavoie (F) - signed
Garrett Clarke (D) - re-signed
Daniel Tetrault (D) - signed
Trevor Hendrikx (D) - re-signed
Jim McKenzie (F) - re-signed
Jarret Lukin (F) - re-signed
Ross Rouleau (D) - signed
Mike Berube (D) - re-signed
Alex Bourret (F) - signed
Kale Kerbashian (F) - re-signed
Arizona Sundogs
Transactions:
Named Kevin Colley Head Coach
Named Gord Burnett Assistant Coach
Jason Morgan (F) - re-signed
Kevin Baker (F) - re-signed
Henric Hoglund (F) - signed
Ryan Gaucher (D) - signed
Matt McCready (D) - re-signed
Jade Galbraith (F) - signed
Jordan Clendenning (F) - signed
Dion Campbell (F) - signed
Joe Tolles (D) - signed
Mike Kavanagh (D) - signed
Bryce Reddick (F) - signed
Brodie Zuk (F) - signed
David Brown (G) - re-signed
Brampton Beast
Transactions:
Named Mark DeSantis Head Coach
Named Brent Hughes Assistant Coach
Brett Smith (F) - signed
Calin Wild (F) - signed
Jason Pitton (F) - signed
Tylor Michel (F) - signed
Michael Couch (D) - signed
Rob Collins (F) - signed
Josh McQuade (F) - signed
Kris Westblom (G) - signed
Erik Spady (D) - signed
Mitchell Good (F) - signed
Andrew Darrigo (D) - signed
Denver Cutthroats
Transactions:
Sean Zimmerman (D) - re-signed
T.J. Fox (F) - signed
Troy Schwab (F) - re-signed
J.P. Chabot (F) - re-signed
Matt Glasser (F) - signed
A.J. Gale (F) - re-signed
Aaron MacKenzie (D) - re-signed
Garett Bembridge (F) - signed
Missouri Mavericks
Transactions:
John-Scott Dickson (F) - re-signed
David Pszenyczny (D) - re-signed
Sebastien Thinel (F) - re-sined
Andrew Courtney (F) - re-signed
Colt King (F) - re-signed
Evan Vossen (F) - re-signed
Trevor Kell (F) - re-signed
Kyle Hood (F) - re-signed
Mike Ramsay (F) - signed
Shane Owen (G) - signed
Colten Hayes (D) - signed
Matt Stephenson (D) - signed
Anders Franzon (D) - signed
Tyler Currier (D) - signed
Joe Howe (G) - signed
Erno Suomalainen (G) - signed
Rob Kleebaum (F) - signed
Quad City Mallards
Transactions:
Darren McMillan (D) - re-signed
Jeff Lee (F) - signed
Matt Boyd (F) - re-signed
Mike Grace (D) - signed
Thomas Frazee (F) - signed
Tyler Melancon (F) - signed
Nick Grasso (D) - signed
Matt Carlson (D) - signed
Thomas Heemskerk (G) - signed
Matt Duffy (D) - re-signed
Rob Dongara (F) - signed
Brendan Turner (F) - signed
Tony Rizzi (F) - signed
Philippe Trudeau (G) - signed
John Heffernan (F) - signed
Benjamin Dieude-Fauvel (D) - signed
Mike Stinziani (F) - re-signed
Tyler Yaworski (D) - signed
Jordan Lane (D) - signed
Vladimir Nikiforov (F) - signed
Rapid City Rush
Transactions:
Acquired rights to Gio Flamminio (D) from Tulsa and signed him to contract in exchange for the rights to Dan Gendur (F) and Jordan Baker (F)
Konrad Reeder (F) - signed
Jared Brown (F) - re-signed
Jesse Schultz (F) - re-signed
Riley Weselowski (D) - re-signed
Tristin Llewellyn (D) - re-signed
Kyle Stroh (F) - re-signed
Justin Faryna (F) - re-signed
Winston Day Chief (F) - re-signed
Justin Sawyer (D) - re-signed
Eric Giosa (F) - signed
Ryan Palmer (D) - signed
St. Charles Chill
Transactions:
Named Jamie Rivers Head Coach
Jordan Fox (F) - signed
Kyle Kraemer (F) - signed
Tony DeHart (D) - signed
Kyle O'Kane (F) - signed
Kevin McFarland (G) - signed
Chad Costello (F) - signed
Riley Emmerson (D) - signed
Steve Makway (D) - signed
Tulsa Oilers
Transactions:
Acquired rights to Dan Gendur (F) and Jordan Baker (F) from Rapid City in exchange for the rights to Gio Flamminio (D)
Todd Robinson (F) - signed
Ben Gordon (F) - re-signed
Tomas Klempa (F) - signed
Drew Fisher (F) - re-signed
Shane Madolora (G) - re-signed
Brandon Coccimiglio (F) - signed
Sy Nutkevitch (F) - signed
Ryan Barlock (D) - re-signed
Jeff Buvinow (D) - re-signed
Andrew Himmelson (D) - signed
Andy Willigar (D) - signed
Kyle Leahy (F) - signed
Brett Skalski (F) - signed
Neilsson Arcibal (F) - signed
Nathan Lutz (D) - signed
Jarred Mohr (D) - signed
Ryan Menei (F) - re-signed
Thomas Beauregard (F) - signed
Wichita Thunder
Transactions:
Jon Booras (F) - signed
Jesse Dudas (D) - signed
Andrew Martens (D) - re-signed
Matt Summers (F) - re-signed
RG Flath (F) - re-signed
Ian Lowe (F) - re-signed
Matt Robinson (F) - re-signed
Torrie Jung (G) - re-signed
Taylor Nelson (G) - signed
Kalvin Sagert (D) - signed
Travis Wight (D) - re-signed
Jon Madden (D) - re-signed
Jared Walker (F) - signed
Dustin Donaghy (F) - re-signed
Nik Yaremchuk (F) - signed
Burke Gallimore (F) - signed
Thursday, September 19, 2013
NHL/AHL/ECHL/CHL Affiliations, Kerbashian Returns & More
 |
| Kale, the early years |
- AHL camps are starting within the next week and the Americans usually have numerous players attend AHL camps. The team is working to get slots/invites for some additional players. If they are successful we should hear something in the next few days.
- I get asked about affiliations all the time so thought I would post this chart that shows all of the affiliations for each AHL team. I did not verify all of these affiliations so the chart may not be 100% accurate. It does show the Americans still have an affiliation with the Texas Stars (at least on paper). The team is working to establish another AHL affiliation.
Division Team Arena Location NHL Affiliate ECHL/CHL Affiliate
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
An Inspirational Hockey Story - Jack Jablonski
Came across this story yesterday and being from Minnesota I remember following his story when he was paralyzed in a hockey game as a high school sophomore on December 30, 2011. This story was written by Bob Bakken of Pro Hockey News.
Newest Steel Jablonski inspires amidst adversity
SOUTHAVEN,
Miss. – Inspiration can be found in many places. The latest chapter in
one such story has taken a turn to the USHL and the locker room of the
Chicago Steel in the form of a name on a roster.
The name is there on the team’s web site roster page, along with the others ready to take the ice for the Steel in its home opener Friday, Sept. 20 against the Green Bay Gamblers.
It brings no special attention. It is found there with the same lettering as other names on the page. Look for number 13 and you will find it. The name is: Jack Jablonski.
That name and the story behind it has become a special one in the hockey world. The USHL franchise in Chicago has embraced the message and the Steel will move that story ahead to its players and fans both on and off the ice this season.
In case you’re not aware about Jack Jablonski, here’s the short version of his story.
Jablonski attends Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School in suburban Minneapolis, Minn. The school has been a prestigious hockey power in the state where prep hockey is as important to it as prep basketball is to Indiana.
Jack was an up-and-coming player for the Knights as a sophomore until a hit into the boards during a game paralyzed him from the chest down nearly two years ago. The check came in a junior varsity game and injured his spinal cord.
Doctors believe he will not walk again. But the inspiration of Jack Jablonski starts in how he is not accepting that opinion.
His Twitter account notes the honors student is “Living to prove the doctors wrong.” Jabby, as he is also known, works daily in therapy using an advanced program that is part of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation NeuroRecovery Program.
Christopher Reeve is the former movie actor who starred in the “Superman” movies before a fall from a horse injured and left him paralyzed in 1995.
Enter the Chicago Steel and Head Coach/General Manager Scott McConnell. The Chicago coach had never met the youngster, but had heard of Jablonski and his positive attitude from other stories about his recovery.
McConnell was also put in touch with Jablonski by a Benilde-St. Margaret’s teammate, whom the Steel also selected in last summer’s USHL draft.
Jablonski had said he wanted the USHL to be the next step in his hockey career before the injury. The Steel were ready to make that happen.
But just to be sure, Jack reminded USHL teams ahead of the draft he was ready. He tweeted a message on his Twitter account, @jabs_13, saying, “Dear USHL teams, Just thought I’d let u know I am eligible for tomorrow’s draft. Sincerely Jack Jablonski.”
The reminder was not needed for the Steel. McConnell said they already had plans for that.
“There was no question that we were using one of our picks on him,” McConnell said. “Jack’s heart and passion for life and the game of hockey embody everything that makes up the Chicago Steel, and we are proud to call him a teammate and family alike.”
That is what the Steel did, as Jablonski became the Steel’s final pick in the June draft. But the story moved forward earlier this month when McConnell announced that not only was Jablonski a draft choice, but now was an official member of the team roster for the season.
The decision to make Jablonski a part of the team was solidified when the two met for the first time. McConnell said, “We were taken back by his positive demeanor, attitude, and the courage he has displayed. His attitude is very humbling, and it puts into perspective what really matters in life. Nothing is taken for granted, and you make the most of every situation that you’re in.
McConnell said the team will promote Jablonski’s fight against spinal cord injuries this season. “We plan on having Jack come down to be around his teammates again,” he said. “We plan on continuing to share the inspiration that he provides all of us through the way he lives his life.”
The Steel also has plans to help in fundraising for the foundation created after the injury. “We plan on having a night dedicated to raising awareness for Jack’s foundation,” McConnell said. “Throughout the event, we will assist with fundraising efforts geared towards his cause.”
The foundation is called the Jack Jablonski BEL13VE in Miracles Foundation. The number 13 was Jablonski’s number on the ice and is prominent in logos promoting the foundation.
That foundation raises funds to support others who have suffered spinal cord injuries in their care and recovery.
Jablonski inspired his high school hockey team to win a state championship in Minnesota three months after his injury. I’m certain he would not mind inspiring his new team to a Clark Cup title for Chicago next spring.
The Steel will start the season without Jack Jablonski’s presence on the ice. But, they will have their teammate’s message of courage and determination to overcome with them the entire year.
More information on the Jack Jablonski BEL13VE in Miracles Foundation can be found on its web site, www.jabby13.com.
The name is there on the team’s web site roster page, along with the others ready to take the ice for the Steel in its home opener Friday, Sept. 20 against the Green Bay Gamblers.
It brings no special attention. It is found there with the same lettering as other names on the page. Look for number 13 and you will find it. The name is: Jack Jablonski.
That name and the story behind it has become a special one in the hockey world. The USHL franchise in Chicago has embraced the message and the Steel will move that story ahead to its players and fans both on and off the ice this season.
In case you’re not aware about Jack Jablonski, here’s the short version of his story.
Jablonski attends Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School in suburban Minneapolis, Minn. The school has been a prestigious hockey power in the state where prep hockey is as important to it as prep basketball is to Indiana.
Jack was an up-and-coming player for the Knights as a sophomore until a hit into the boards during a game paralyzed him from the chest down nearly two years ago. The check came in a junior varsity game and injured his spinal cord.
His Twitter account notes the honors student is “Living to prove the doctors wrong.” Jabby, as he is also known, works daily in therapy using an advanced program that is part of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation NeuroRecovery Program.
Christopher Reeve is the former movie actor who starred in the “Superman” movies before a fall from a horse injured and left him paralyzed in 1995.
Enter the Chicago Steel and Head Coach/General Manager Scott McConnell. The Chicago coach had never met the youngster, but had heard of Jablonski and his positive attitude from other stories about his recovery.
McConnell was also put in touch with Jablonski by a Benilde-St. Margaret’s teammate, whom the Steel also selected in last summer’s USHL draft.
Jablonski had said he wanted the USHL to be the next step in his hockey career before the injury. The Steel were ready to make that happen.
But just to be sure, Jack reminded USHL teams ahead of the draft he was ready. He tweeted a message on his Twitter account, @jabs_13, saying, “Dear USHL teams, Just thought I’d let u know I am eligible for tomorrow’s draft. Sincerely Jack Jablonski.”
The reminder was not needed for the Steel. McConnell said they already had plans for that.
“There was no question that we were using one of our picks on him,” McConnell said. “Jack’s heart and passion for life and the game of hockey embody everything that makes up the Chicago Steel, and we are proud to call him a teammate and family alike.”
That is what the Steel did, as Jablonski became the Steel’s final pick in the June draft. But the story moved forward earlier this month when McConnell announced that not only was Jablonski a draft choice, but now was an official member of the team roster for the season.
The decision to make Jablonski a part of the team was solidified when the two met for the first time. McConnell said, “We were taken back by his positive demeanor, attitude, and the courage he has displayed. His attitude is very humbling, and it puts into perspective what really matters in life. Nothing is taken for granted, and you make the most of every situation that you’re in.
McConnell said the team will promote Jablonski’s fight against spinal cord injuries this season. “We plan on having Jack come down to be around his teammates again,” he said. “We plan on continuing to share the inspiration that he provides all of us through the way he lives his life.”
The Steel also has plans to help in fundraising for the foundation created after the injury. “We plan on having a night dedicated to raising awareness for Jack’s foundation,” McConnell said. “Throughout the event, we will assist with fundraising efforts geared towards his cause.”
The foundation is called the Jack Jablonski BEL13VE in Miracles Foundation. The number 13 was Jablonski’s number on the ice and is prominent in logos promoting the foundation.
That foundation raises funds to support others who have suffered spinal cord injuries in their care and recovery.
Jablonski inspired his high school hockey team to win a state championship in Minnesota three months after his injury. I’m certain he would not mind inspiring his new team to a Clark Cup title for Chicago next spring.
The Steel will start the season without Jack Jablonski’s presence on the ice. But, they will have their teammate’s message of courage and determination to overcome with them the entire year.
More information on the Jack Jablonski BEL13VE in Miracles Foundation can be found on its web site, www.jabby13.com.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Casper, Wyoming Working to Join CHL
If you remember, last year Casper, Wyoming made an attempt to acquire a CHL franchise but the ownership group could not raise the necessary funds. I found this article written by Kelly Byer who is a staff writer for the Star-Tribune. Sounds like there is some ongoing interest in pursuing a CHL franchise.
Former state legislator and U.S. Rep. John Wold has offered $1 million to help facilitate hockey in the Casper Events Center.
Wold’s goal is to do his part in fostering growing interest in professional hockey.
Wold’s donation would cover about half of the estimated $2.2 million needed for a sheet of ice, dasher boards and other equipment.
His gift is contingent on four conditions the city must meet by Dec. 31: He wants to approve the franchise and lease agreement with the hockey team, ice floor budget, engineering plans and any additional funding, according to city documents.
The Casper City Council is scheduled to vote on whether to accept Wold’s donation and his conditions during today’s council meeting.
The 97-year-old Wold played hockey at New York’s Union College in the late 1930s. He said the game hasn’t changed much, but the fan base has.
“There wasn’t the national hockey fever that you have today,” he said. “Here is a rising interest, both in educational hockey teams from schools but also semi-professional and professional involvement.”
The venture would be almost completely funded by hockey “enthusiasts,” who Wold said seek to capitalize on the Events Center facilities.
“We are blessed with the setup,” he said. “The physical setup at the start.”
A group of private investors attempted to acquire a Central Hockey League team and update the Events Center in time for the 2013-14 season, but they failed to raise enough money by spring deadlines. The investors will now attempt to solicit players from outside the state to form a team by the 2014-15 season.
The CHL is roughly comparable to baseball’s AA level in the hierarchy of minor league hockey. The closest franchises to Casper are the Rapid City Rush and Denver Cutthroats. Players participate in about 40 home games each season, which begins in October and ends in March.
City Manager John Patterson has said the installation of an ice sheet should take fewer than 90 days, and it would stay on the floor eight months a year. A 1-inch-thick board would be placed over the ice to host concerts and other events.
The Casper Ice Arena, located at the Casper Recreation Center, is currently the only rink in Casper. It plays host to amateur hockey, figure skating and curling.
Jolene Whitley is president of the Casper Oilers Amateur Hockey Club. Whitley said a professional team would raise interest in the sport and provide learning opportunities for the youth league. The club, which has been in Casper since 1969, would likely explore mentorship programs or coaching clinics for its young players.
“That is one of our goals, is to keep the organization growing,” she said. “The professional league here, I think, would be a huge benefit for that.”
Whitley said youth hockey members could also entertain the audience during halftime shows to build a mutual relationship with the professional league. The amateur league consists of 200 members between the ages of 4 and 19; the 4- to 8-year-old age group is the largest with 80 players.
“Hockey’s a great sport for kids,” Whitley said. “We’re not just building hockey, we’re building teamwork.”
She said many amateur members and their parents have supported the idea of a professional team in Casper because of the potential benefit to youth hockey.
Former state legislator and U.S. Rep. John Wold has offered $1 million to help facilitate hockey in the Casper Events Center.
Wold’s goal is to do his part in fostering growing interest in professional hockey.
Wold’s donation would cover about half of the estimated $2.2 million needed for a sheet of ice, dasher boards and other equipment.
His gift is contingent on four conditions the city must meet by Dec. 31: He wants to approve the franchise and lease agreement with the hockey team, ice floor budget, engineering plans and any additional funding, according to city documents.
The Casper City Council is scheduled to vote on whether to accept Wold’s donation and his conditions during today’s council meeting.
The 97-year-old Wold played hockey at New York’s Union College in the late 1930s. He said the game hasn’t changed much, but the fan base has.
“There wasn’t the national hockey fever that you have today,” he said. “Here is a rising interest, both in educational hockey teams from schools but also semi-professional and professional involvement.”
The venture would be almost completely funded by hockey “enthusiasts,” who Wold said seek to capitalize on the Events Center facilities.
“We are blessed with the setup,” he said. “The physical setup at the start.”
A group of private investors attempted to acquire a Central Hockey League team and update the Events Center in time for the 2013-14 season, but they failed to raise enough money by spring deadlines. The investors will now attempt to solicit players from outside the state to form a team by the 2014-15 season.
The CHL is roughly comparable to baseball’s AA level in the hierarchy of minor league hockey. The closest franchises to Casper are the Rapid City Rush and Denver Cutthroats. Players participate in about 40 home games each season, which begins in October and ends in March.
City Manager John Patterson has said the installation of an ice sheet should take fewer than 90 days, and it would stay on the floor eight months a year. A 1-inch-thick board would be placed over the ice to host concerts and other events.
The Casper Ice Arena, located at the Casper Recreation Center, is currently the only rink in Casper. It plays host to amateur hockey, figure skating and curling.
Jolene Whitley is president of the Casper Oilers Amateur Hockey Club. Whitley said a professional team would raise interest in the sport and provide learning opportunities for the youth league. The club, which has been in Casper since 1969, would likely explore mentorship programs or coaching clinics for its young players.
“That is one of our goals, is to keep the organization growing,” she said. “The professional league here, I think, would be a huge benefit for that.”
Whitley said youth hockey members could also entertain the audience during halftime shows to build a mutual relationship with the professional league. The amateur league consists of 200 members between the ages of 4 and 19; the 4- to 8-year-old age group is the largest with 80 players.
“Hockey’s a great sport for kids,” Whitley said. “We’re not just building hockey, we’re building teamwork.”
She said many amateur members and their parents have supported the idea of a professional team in Casper because of the potential benefit to youth hockey.
Clarke Moves On, Montgomery Retires, Adams Joins Twitter
Kind of a slow news day when you have to include "Adams Joins Twitter" in the headline but the back story is the guys in the office (me included) have been giving Erik Adams grief about not being on Twitter for a long time. Yesterday afternoon he was taking his usual raft of crap and he decided to make the jump. Still no picture, no tweets, but he has 53 followers. If you are on Twitter give him a follow. His Twitter handle is @erikadams32. Welcome to the twitterverse Uncle Rico!
- Garrett Clarke announced yesterday he was leaving Allen as he signed a contract with the Toledo Walleye of the ECHL. Have to say this came as a surprise after the Americans kept him around during the playoffs last year. I did hear Garrett recently signed on with a new agent so not sure if that had any impact on his decision to go elsewhere. Here is what he said when asked about the move. "I really enjoyed playing for Marty & Matti. Allen was a good stepping stone for me and although I still have a lot to learn this is a big step in the right direction. I think the biggest things working to my advantage are my age and potential. I have a lot of confidence in my abilities right now and I think with the right opportunity I will certainly take advantage of it." Good luck Garrett.
- Mike Montgomery will not play hockey this year. Mike found a good job outside of hockey and has decided to take advantage of that opportunity. Mike is a class act and one of the most cerebral, thoughtful, and kind players you will ever meet. And don't forget his accomplishments as he scored the only goal of the game as his team won the fabled Minnesota High School hockey championship, he was captain of the University of Minnesota Duluth hockey team when they won their first NCAA hockey championship and of course we will never forget the pass he made to Todd Robinson for the championship winning overtime goal this past season with the Americans. Job well done Mike! Best of luck to you and Ashley!!
- Many of you have commented to me and others about the lack of merchandise in the Americans team store during and after the championship run. While you will have to stay tuned for all of the details there will be some big changes this year and announcements should be coming out in the near future.
- Also heard there will be a new jersey design for the white jersey the Americans wear. No details or picture but you can bet the team store will be well stocked. Unless the policy changes the CHL requires the teams to wear different jerseys in each half of the season. The "Dread The Red" has been such a marketing success the team will have to have as much red as possible no matter what jersey they wear at home.
- Garrett Clarke announced yesterday he was leaving Allen as he signed a contract with the Toledo Walleye of the ECHL. Have to say this came as a surprise after the Americans kept him around during the playoffs last year. I did hear Garrett recently signed on with a new agent so not sure if that had any impact on his decision to go elsewhere. Here is what he said when asked about the move. "I really enjoyed playing for Marty & Matti. Allen was a good stepping stone for me and although I still have a lot to learn this is a big step in the right direction. I think the biggest things working to my advantage are my age and potential. I have a lot of confidence in my abilities right now and I think with the right opportunity I will certainly take advantage of it." Good luck Garrett.
- Mike Montgomery will not play hockey this year. Mike found a good job outside of hockey and has decided to take advantage of that opportunity. Mike is a class act and one of the most cerebral, thoughtful, and kind players you will ever meet. And don't forget his accomplishments as he scored the only goal of the game as his team won the fabled Minnesota High School hockey championship, he was captain of the University of Minnesota Duluth hockey team when they won their first NCAA hockey championship and of course we will never forget the pass he made to Todd Robinson for the championship winning overtime goal this past season with the Americans. Job well done Mike! Best of luck to you and Ashley!!
 |
| Mike Montgomery - chlphotos.com |
- Many of you have commented to me and others about the lack of merchandise in the Americans team store during and after the championship run. While you will have to stay tuned for all of the details there will be some big changes this year and announcements should be coming out in the near future.
- Also heard there will be a new jersey design for the white jersey the Americans wear. No details or picture but you can bet the team store will be well stocked. Unless the policy changes the CHL requires the teams to wear different jerseys in each half of the season. The "Dread The Red" has been such a marketing success the team will have to have as much red as possible no matter what jersey they wear at home.
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