Way to go NE Panthers. We will have interviews with Coaches, Players and some local reaction all week on the blog so stay tuned.
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Don't know if I'm going to make a bulletin board somewhere for this but I accepted a bet on the AJHL final over the weekend. I took Spruce Grove.
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Justin Fontaine's UMD Bulldogs final saw their amazing run come to an end. Here's the recap.
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Talk about the two ref system:
Almost forgot to mention a tidbit about the BCHL game I saw over the weekend.
About halfway through the first period one of the two linesmen caught a puck in the face and he started leaking pretty good. He was taken to the Victoria dressing room for some repairs but the game resumed without delay with one ref and one linesman. Play continued that way until the end of the first period with the injured official able to return for the rest of the game. The two officials left to handle the game did a pretty good job as I didn't really notice they were a linesman short until I saw the injured guy come back for the second.
The Robb Hunter Blog
Monday, March 30, 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
SATURDAY -- Wade Epp
I thought the third round series between Victoria and Powell River was over 14 seconds into the game 5 last night. The Grizzlys, who already have a spot lined up in the RBC Cup finals in early May, did not look ready to play and found themselves down 1-0 before the first shift was over.
They did a good job of regrouping and by the end of the first period seemed ready to compete and played very well through periods 2 and 3.
Call it a press, a lock or even a trap Victoria was able to shutdown the offence of Powell River and capitalize their on their chances on route to a 4-1 victory and a chance to extend the series to 7 with game 6 tonight in Powell River.
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Game 5 was played at the brand new Memorial Centre in Victoria because the Grizzlys regular home rink at Bear Mountain was booked for a curling bonspiel. The MC is home to the ECHL's Salmon Kings and the big team did a good job of some cross marketing and promotion handing out Salmon Kings info and some souvenirs. I still think the ECHL team ownership group should have gone with the name Victoria Active Passers instead of the Salmon Kings.
While I used to get to a number of Victoria Shamrock games back in the old rink near downtown I had not yet been in the new building and I was fairly impressed with the facility although the sound system was awful, the rink burgers were luke warm and $10 for parking is just wrong.
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It was nice to be able to relax and have a couple barley based beverages and not have to work while watching a Jr. A game for the first time this season. While the Victoria fans I was sitting with seemed to expect a lot from their team and their cheering was mainly directed at their frustration with their own team, despite the fact they were winning, they did have nothing but good things to say about former Drumheller Dragon Wade Epp.
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Overall I wasn't very impressed with the level of play of either squad and I'd be happy to take either G.P. or Spruce Grove in the Doyle Cup this year. Yes, I'd even take Brooks if they can find a way to win at Canada Games Arena.
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Go Northeast Panthers Go. Game 4 of thier best of 5 with Peace River is tonight at the RJ. Wish I could be there for that one.
They did a good job of regrouping and by the end of the first period seemed ready to compete and played very well through periods 2 and 3.
Call it a press, a lock or even a trap Victoria was able to shutdown the offence of Powell River and capitalize their on their chances on route to a 4-1 victory and a chance to extend the series to 7 with game 6 tonight in Powell River.
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Game 5 was played at the brand new Memorial Centre in Victoria because the Grizzlys regular home rink at Bear Mountain was booked for a curling bonspiel. The MC is home to the ECHL's Salmon Kings and the big team did a good job of some cross marketing and promotion handing out Salmon Kings info and some souvenirs. I still think the ECHL team ownership group should have gone with the name Victoria Active Passers instead of the Salmon Kings.
While I used to get to a number of Victoria Shamrock games back in the old rink near downtown I had not yet been in the new building and I was fairly impressed with the facility although the sound system was awful, the rink burgers were luke warm and $10 for parking is just wrong.
-----
It was nice to be able to relax and have a couple barley based beverages and not have to work while watching a Jr. A game for the first time this season. While the Victoria fans I was sitting with seemed to expect a lot from their team and their cheering was mainly directed at their frustration with their own team, despite the fact they were winning, they did have nothing but good things to say about former Drumheller Dragon Wade Epp.
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Overall I wasn't very impressed with the level of play of either squad and I'd be happy to take either G.P. or Spruce Grove in the Doyle Cup this year. Yes, I'd even take Brooks if they can find a way to win at Canada Games Arena.
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Go Northeast Panthers Go. Game 4 of thier best of 5 with Peace River is tonight at the RJ. Wish I could be there for that one.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
WEDNESDAY -- advanced scouting
I'm off to Edmonton International this afternoon to catch a flight to Victoria. While it's mainly a trip to see my brother and sister-in-law I will be attending game 5 between Victoria and Powell River ... so if Revenue Canada asks any of you it's a scouting trip that I needed to claim.
Anyone want game film??? I'm looking at you Mr. Hamilton/Curran/Vandekamp. Give me a call. Don't bother with the e-mail. I won't be checking it until I'm back.
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For those of us in the Northeast portion of the province wanting to drive to at least one game in the AJHL final we now don't have as far to go with the Saints sweep of Olds. I thought Spruce Grove would get through the Grizz but I'm a little surprised they won both games at the Sports Complex.
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Why did the Fan 960 switch their generic American filler coverage to Fox Sports radio? Maybe it will just take a little while to get used to but I much preferred ESPN radio.
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TheRobbHunter.com Cup video is coming. I promise.
Anyone want game film??? I'm looking at you Mr. Hamilton/Curran/Vandekamp. Give me a call. Don't bother with the e-mail. I won't be checking it until I'm back.
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For those of us in the Northeast portion of the province wanting to drive to at least one game in the AJHL final we now don't have as far to go with the Saints sweep of Olds. I thought Spruce Grove would get through the Grizz but I'm a little surprised they won both games at the Sports Complex.
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Why did the Fan 960 switch their generic American filler coverage to Fox Sports radio? Maybe it will just take a little while to get used to but I much preferred ESPN radio.
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TheRobbHunter.com Cup video is coming. I promise.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
TUESDAY -- I'm back
Interesting trip to Peace River this weekend. No internet in the hotel and txt messaging on my phone stopped working. It's amazing how quickly you can feel out of touch with the world.
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Pretty decent rink in Peace River and two really good hockey games played by two really good hockey teams. The third game, as evidenced by the 10-1 final wasn't a good game.
Pontiacs AP Niko Bourget and regular season all star Matthew Laboucane were a little quieter than I thought they would be but Ryan Kearns and Chad Brears were strong.
Grande Prairie Storm carded players Bond and Brendan Hawryluk lived up to the hype although I thought Bond played better than his twin brother. Joel Pelletier was a physical force while Pontiacs netminding hopeful Jordan Panasiuk was very good in a losing effort in game one and was replaced by Cole Robert for games two and three.
Game four goes Saturday night in Bonnyville and is free to attend.
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I understand that I never played major junior hockey and I never made it to the NHL so if that is what television networks are looking for when it comes to their analysts resumes then I understand I'm out of luck but there is some really annoying about watching Nick Kypreos whine about goal celebrations. You're freakin' Nick Kypreos.
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Congrats to WCHA winners the Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs who are off to the NCAA round of 16 after beating Denver in the final of their conference tournament. I'm proudly wearing my UMD hoody Justin Fontaine brought home for me at Christmas this year.
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Didn't I win a bet earlier this year with a yappy radio announcer in Olds with a Bemidji State hoody on the line?
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Playoff Power Rankings
1. Spruce Grove Saints
2. Grande Praire Storm
3. Brooks Bandits
4. Olds Grizzlys
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Pretty decent rink in Peace River and two really good hockey games played by two really good hockey teams. The third game, as evidenced by the 10-1 final wasn't a good game.
Pontiacs AP Niko Bourget and regular season all star Matthew Laboucane were a little quieter than I thought they would be but Ryan Kearns and Chad Brears were strong.
Grande Prairie Storm carded players Bond and Brendan Hawryluk lived up to the hype although I thought Bond played better than his twin brother. Joel Pelletier was a physical force while Pontiacs netminding hopeful Jordan Panasiuk was very good in a losing effort in game one and was replaced by Cole Robert for games two and three.
Game four goes Saturday night in Bonnyville and is free to attend.
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I understand that I never played major junior hockey and I never made it to the NHL so if that is what television networks are looking for when it comes to their analysts resumes then I understand I'm out of luck but there is some really annoying about watching Nick Kypreos whine about goal celebrations. You're freakin' Nick Kypreos.
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Congrats to WCHA winners the Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs who are off to the NCAA round of 16 after beating Denver in the final of their conference tournament. I'm proudly wearing my UMD hoody Justin Fontaine brought home for me at Christmas this year.
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Didn't I win a bet earlier this year with a yappy radio announcer in Olds with a Bemidji State hoody on the line?
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Playoff Power Rankings
1. Spruce Grove Saints
2. Grande Praire Storm
3. Brooks Bandits
4. Olds Grizzlys
Thursday, March 19, 2009
THURSDAY
Kool 101.3 is excited to have the opportunity to broadcast the first three games of the Rural Alberta Midget Hockey League finals Live from Peace River.
I will be heading up tomorrow morning and we will be on air Live from Royal Country with Game 1 at 8:30 tomorrow night. Game 2 is Saturday at 8:30 and Game 3 starts at 12:30 on Sunday.
It's a best of 5 series between the Northeast Panthers and Peace River Royals with the Royals holding home ice advantage. Games 4 and 5, if necessary, will be played in Bonnyville March 28th and 29th.
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There's a quick reference to a '92 Camrose D-man in the Globe and Mail this week. Check it out here to find out who.
Plus it's an interesting story.
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The newest edition of the Edmonton Oil Kings franchise will play their first ever playoff game this weekend when they travel to Calgary to take on the Hitmen. The Oil King blueline features former Bonnyville Pontiacs D-man Drew Nichol.
The Oil Kings clinched the 8th playoff spot with a one game playoff win against the Prince Albert Raiders after both teams finished tied in the regular season standings. No one expects Edmonton to even make it close in the first round against the High flying Hitmen.
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Today is the last day for baseball registration in Bonnyville. 6-8 tonight at the C2.
I will be heading up tomorrow morning and we will be on air Live from Royal Country with Game 1 at 8:30 tomorrow night. Game 2 is Saturday at 8:30 and Game 3 starts at 12:30 on Sunday.
It's a best of 5 series between the Northeast Panthers and Peace River Royals with the Royals holding home ice advantage. Games 4 and 5, if necessary, will be played in Bonnyville March 28th and 29th.
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There's a quick reference to a '92 Camrose D-man in the Globe and Mail this week. Check it out here to find out who.
Plus it's an interesting story.
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The newest edition of the Edmonton Oil Kings franchise will play their first ever playoff game this weekend when they travel to Calgary to take on the Hitmen. The Oil King blueline features former Bonnyville Pontiacs D-man Drew Nichol.
The Oil Kings clinched the 8th playoff spot with a one game playoff win against the Prince Albert Raiders after both teams finished tied in the regular season standings. No one expects Edmonton to even make it close in the first round against the High flying Hitmen.
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Today is the last day for baseball registration in Bonnyville. 6-8 tonight at the C2.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
TUESDAY -- Team Canada
Not really a surprise but still nice to see the confirmation.
Team Canada released the roster for the Women's World Championships this morning and yes Shannon is on the team. Here's the story.
I would like to see some more Alberta kids on the team. Only three there right now.
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In Camrose
In Olds
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I'm told the video of the TheRobbHunter.com cup has finished the editing phase and I hope to have it up on the site sometime this week. As a reminder ... Pontiacs forward Shawn Bates faced off against Kool 101.3 morning man Dean Lee in a challenge of NHL 09. It was a classic best of three matchup with a thrilling conclusion.
Team Canada released the roster for the Women's World Championships this morning and yes Shannon is on the team. Here's the story.
I would like to see some more Alberta kids on the team. Only three there right now.
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In Camrose
In Olds
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I'm told the video of the TheRobbHunter.com cup has finished the editing phase and I hope to have it up on the site sometime this week. As a reminder ... Pontiacs forward Shawn Bates faced off against Kool 101.3 morning man Dean Lee in a challenge of NHL 09. It was a classic best of three matchup with a thrilling conclusion.
Monday, March 16, 2009
MONDAY -- Congrats Chad Mercier
I got this text message from the Pontiacs head coach at 4:08am this morning:
It's a Boy sunday the 15th 8 lbs 3 oz Mason George Mercier.
Everyone is doing real good.
Congratulations Chad and wife Kim.
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The recruiting class for the 2026 Bonnyville Pontiacs will be a strong one as Kool 101.3 morning man Dean Lee also became a dad, having a son, on Thursday.
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Craig Orfino who had a cup of coffee in Bonnyville with the Pontiacs a couple years ago won the Joan Kobal Memorial for Perseverance, Dedication and Sportsmanship Award as a member of the Lethbridge Hurricanes this year. He was also named the most popular player as voted on by his teammates.
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A shocking upset on Saturday as the University of Wisconsin Superior lost 2-0 to Gustavus Adolphus and were knocked out of the NCAA Div III playdowns. UWS features former Pontiacs Logan Isley and Brayden Kolisniak.
More on the game here.
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Playoff Power Rankings
1. Spruce Grove Saints
2. Grande Prairie Storm
3. Olds Grizzlys
4. Brooks Bandits
5. Camrose Kodiaks
6. Okotoks Oilers
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Play In games are great and should be used in all sports.
Tuesday night in the WHL the Prince Albert Raiders will host the Edmonton Oil Kings in a special tie breaker game with the loser starting their summer early and the winner getting the eighth playoff spot and the right to lose to Calgary in the first round.
And
Tuesday night in Dayton Ohio the NCAA play in game will take place featuring the previously mentioned Morehead State taking on Alabama State for the right to lose to Louisville. For obvious reasons I was going to be cheering for Morehead State until I found out that Alabama State features 7'1 centre Chief Kickingstallionsims. I'm not making that name up. Now I don't know who I want to advance.
Drayton Valley and the Royals should have been given the opportunity for a play in game with the winner getting to play Spruce Grove in a first round of sorts.
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Congratulations Innisfail for your win in the Bantam B female provincials held in Bonnyville over the weekend. It looked like Lethbridge was going to hold on in the final period for the win but a pair of late goals meant a come from behind victory.
Former Pontiacs goalie Shannon Szabados spoke at the tournament's opening ceremonies about the opportunities that are out there in women's hockey now. Tomorrow will likely be another big day for Shannon as Hockey Canada will hold a press conference in Calgary to announce the roster for the 2009 World Championships along with, and maybe more importantly, the players who will be centralized for the 2009-10 season in preparation for the Olympics.
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For those of you who think there are too many injuries in hockey and are obsessed with talking about changes to fighting and body checking there are things that could be worse...
Like the soccer fan in Iraq who went all 'The Last Boyscout' and shot a player who was about to score the game tying goal. "The striker from a local amateur team had only the goalie to beat when a supporter of the rival club shot him in the head."
It's a Boy sunday the 15th 8 lbs 3 oz Mason George Mercier.
Everyone is doing real good.
Congratulations Chad and wife Kim.
-----
The recruiting class for the 2026 Bonnyville Pontiacs will be a strong one as Kool 101.3 morning man Dean Lee also became a dad, having a son, on Thursday.
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Craig Orfino who had a cup of coffee in Bonnyville with the Pontiacs a couple years ago won the Joan Kobal Memorial for Perseverance, Dedication and Sportsmanship Award as a member of the Lethbridge Hurricanes this year. He was also named the most popular player as voted on by his teammates.
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A shocking upset on Saturday as the University of Wisconsin Superior lost 2-0 to Gustavus Adolphus and were knocked out of the NCAA Div III playdowns. UWS features former Pontiacs Logan Isley and Brayden Kolisniak.
More on the game here.
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Playoff Power Rankings
1. Spruce Grove Saints
2. Grande Prairie Storm
3. Olds Grizzlys
4. Brooks Bandits
5. Camrose Kodiaks
6. Okotoks Oilers
-----
Play In games are great and should be used in all sports.
Tuesday night in the WHL the Prince Albert Raiders will host the Edmonton Oil Kings in a special tie breaker game with the loser starting their summer early and the winner getting the eighth playoff spot and the right to lose to Calgary in the first round.
And
Tuesday night in Dayton Ohio the NCAA play in game will take place featuring the previously mentioned Morehead State taking on Alabama State for the right to lose to Louisville. For obvious reasons I was going to be cheering for Morehead State until I found out that Alabama State features 7'1 centre Chief Kickingstallionsims. I'm not making that name up. Now I don't know who I want to advance.
Drayton Valley and the Royals should have been given the opportunity for a play in game with the winner getting to play Spruce Grove in a first round of sorts.
-----
Congratulations Innisfail for your win in the Bantam B female provincials held in Bonnyville over the weekend. It looked like Lethbridge was going to hold on in the final period for the win but a pair of late goals meant a come from behind victory.
Former Pontiacs goalie Shannon Szabados spoke at the tournament's opening ceremonies about the opportunities that are out there in women's hockey now. Tomorrow will likely be another big day for Shannon as Hockey Canada will hold a press conference in Calgary to announce the roster for the 2009 World Championships along with, and maybe more importantly, the players who will be centralized for the 2009-10 season in preparation for the Olympics.
-----
For those of you who think there are too many injuries in hockey and are obsessed with talking about changes to fighting and body checking there are things that could be worse...
Like the soccer fan in Iraq who went all 'The Last Boyscout' and shot a player who was about to score the game tying goal. "The striker from a local amateur team had only the goalie to beat when a supporter of the rival club shot him in the head."
Friday, March 13, 2009
FRIDAY -- Mayors and hockey
One rookie has made Canada's National Sledge Hockey team that will be heading to the World Championships in early may. Guess who it was.
From Hockey Canada:
Hockey Canada has named its National Sledge Team roster for the 2009 IPC Sledge Hockey World Championship, scheduled for May 9-16 in Ostrava, Czech Republic. Canada is the defending world champion, having won gold in 2008 in Marlborough, Massachusetts.
The 15-player roster includes 14 players who helped Canada win gold at the 2008 IPC Sledge Hockey World Championship, and 13 who were part of Canada’s gold medal-winning team at the 2006 Paralympic Winter Games in Turin, Italy. The roster includes one rookie, forward Matt Cook.
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Assistant Coach Ryan Pollock joined us on Behind the Bench this morning.
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From Gregg Drinnan's WHL Blog:
There will be a celebration in Portland on Friday as the Winter Hawks and the City honour the Portland Buckaroos of the old professional Western Hockey League. Mayor Sam Adams has signed a proclamation declaring the day as Buckaroo Day.
The Mayor of Portland is named Sam Adams??? That's awesome.
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Carlton Ravens vs. St. F.X. tonight in the CIS men's basketball quarter finals. Go X-Men. An X-men win would be considered a pretty big upset.
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In Camrose
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Happy Birthday Tyler Pugh.
From Hockey Canada:
Hockey Canada has named its National Sledge Team roster for the 2009 IPC Sledge Hockey World Championship, scheduled for May 9-16 in Ostrava, Czech Republic. Canada is the defending world champion, having won gold in 2008 in Marlborough, Massachusetts.
The 15-player roster includes 14 players who helped Canada win gold at the 2008 IPC Sledge Hockey World Championship, and 13 who were part of Canada’s gold medal-winning team at the 2006 Paralympic Winter Games in Turin, Italy. The roster includes one rookie, forward Matt Cook.
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Assistant Coach Ryan Pollock joined us on Behind the Bench this morning.
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From Gregg Drinnan's WHL Blog:
There will be a celebration in Portland on Friday as the Winter Hawks and the City honour the Portland Buckaroos of the old professional Western Hockey League. Mayor Sam Adams has signed a proclamation declaring the day as Buckaroo Day.
The Mayor of Portland is named Sam Adams??? That's awesome.
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Carlton Ravens vs. St. F.X. tonight in the CIS men's basketball quarter finals. Go X-Men. An X-men win would be considered a pretty big upset.
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In Camrose
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Happy Birthday Tyler Pugh.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
THURSDAY -- Provincials and Panthers
The Lakeland Jaguars first game at the Bantam B female provincials is tomorrow morning at 10:00 at the Encana Rink.
We chatted with Coach of the Jaguars Mitch Sylvestre at the same time as we caught up with assistant coach of the Northeast Panters Randy Repchuk.
Here's the audio.
The Camrose Kodiaks cheating comment is an inside joke for Kool 101.3 listeners who know that according to the morning show every team that plays against a Bonnyville squad cheats.
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Around the AJHL as they come in:
In Camrose
In Olds
In Sherwood Park
In Fort McMurray
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In a where are they now segment former Bonnyville Pontiacs sniper Rob Sirianni has spent the year with the Philadelphia Phantoms of the AHL.
Sirianni has 11 points in 32 games so far this year after spending the first 18 games in the ECHL. The former Pontiac spent four years at Bemidji State before getting a tour of the pro leagues with stops in Syracuse, Youngstown, Utah, Wheeling and Binghamton before finding a home with the Phantoms. In his last year with the Pontiacs in 2002-03 Sirianni had 48 goals 42 assists and 110 Pims in 62 games.
Another former Pontiac, Jon Kalinski spent time with the Phantoms this year before being called up to the Flyers. Kalinski is still out of the Flyer lineup with a leg injury suffered in early January.
We chatted with Coach of the Jaguars Mitch Sylvestre at the same time as we caught up with assistant coach of the Northeast Panters Randy Repchuk.
Here's the audio.
The Camrose Kodiaks cheating comment is an inside joke for Kool 101.3 listeners who know that according to the morning show every team that plays against a Bonnyville squad cheats.
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Around the AJHL as they come in:
In Camrose
In Olds
In Sherwood Park
In Fort McMurray
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In a where are they now segment former Bonnyville Pontiacs sniper Rob Sirianni has spent the year with the Philadelphia Phantoms of the AHL.
Sirianni has 11 points in 32 games so far this year after spending the first 18 games in the ECHL. The former Pontiac spent four years at Bemidji State before getting a tour of the pro leagues with stops in Syracuse, Youngstown, Utah, Wheeling and Binghamton before finding a home with the Phantoms. In his last year with the Pontiacs in 2002-03 Sirianni had 48 goals 42 assists and 110 Pims in 62 games.
Another former Pontiac, Jon Kalinski spent time with the Phantoms this year before being called up to the Flyers. Kalinski is still out of the Flyer lineup with a leg injury suffered in early January.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
WEDNESDAY
The Bonnyville Atom Tier 1 hockey team is traveling to Taber Alberta for Provincials this weekend.
The team leaves tomorrow morning so best of luck boys... watch out though... you've got to keep your heads up around those Taber teams.
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Dates for the RAMHL finals have been set. Games 1, 2 and 3 will be in Peace River on March 20, 21, 22 with games 4 and 5 being held in Bonnyville the following weekend. It's a best of five series.
The team leaves tomorrow morning so best of luck boys... watch out though... you've got to keep your heads up around those Taber teams.
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Dates for the RAMHL finals have been set. Games 1, 2 and 3 will be in Peace River on March 20, 21, 22 with games 4 and 5 being held in Bonnyville the following weekend. It's a best of five series.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
TUESDAY -- Andrew Hayes
From WHL.ca ... Hayes is a former member of the Bonnyville Pontiacs.
The WHL has also nominated Andrew Hayes of the Brandon Wheat Kings for the ADT CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Hayes posted a 3-0-0-1 record this past week, stopping 99 of 104 shots faced for a 1.370 goals-against average and .952 save percentage.
Hayes, from Sherwood Park, Alberta, is playing his 18-year-old season with the Wheat Kings, his second in the WHL. He currently sits 10th among all WHL Goaltenders with a 2.88 GAA and has posted a 29-10-2-1 record thus far this season.
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Around the league. Updated as they come in.
In Okotoks
In Brooks
The WHL has also nominated Andrew Hayes of the Brandon Wheat Kings for the ADT CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Hayes posted a 3-0-0-1 record this past week, stopping 99 of 104 shots faced for a 1.370 goals-against average and .952 save percentage.
Hayes, from Sherwood Park, Alberta, is playing his 18-year-old season with the Wheat Kings, his second in the WHL. He currently sits 10th among all WHL Goaltenders with a 2.88 GAA and has posted a 29-10-2-1 record thus far this season.
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Around the league. Updated as they come in.
In Okotoks
In Brooks
Monday, March 9, 2009
MONDAY -- back at it
Yeah yeah yeah... I took a weekend off. Stop e-mailing me.
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7-2 and 8-2 ... take that Camrose. Your Jr. A team might still be in the playoffs but your Rural Alberta Midgets just got their clocks cleaned.
How about those Panthers? They looked great on Saturday night when I took in game one of that best of three series and now get the matchup everyone expected when the RAMHL playoffs started facing Peace River in the final. No dates set for the games but I'll pass them along when I find out.
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AJHL playoffs are continuing but my weekend off might have discouraged the guys who leave the voicers.
In Okotoks
In Brooks
In Spruce Grove
In Grande Prairie
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Power Rankings
1. Brooks Bandits
2. Spruce Grove Saints
3. Olds Grizzlys
4. Sherwood Park Crusaders
5. Fort McMurray Oil Barons
6. Grande Prairie Storm
7. Okotoks Oilers
8. Camrose Kodiaks
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Big game this Saturday at the University of Wisconsin Superior as the Yellowjackets host Gustavus Adolphus for the right to move on to the NCAA Div III Final Four in Lake Placid New York.
The Yellowjacket squad features former Pontiacs Logan Isley and Brayden Kolisniak.
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The upset wasn't meant to be for the Battleford Stars of the SJHL who forced the top ranked Humboldt Broncos to 6 games in the second round but couldn't pull it out in the end.
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For us college basketball fans out there the Morehead State Eagles captured the Ohio Valley Conference and earned a birth into March Madness with the win. The Eagles athletics program isn't exactly a basketball powerhouse but they do have a track team and a rifle team and when you visit their homepage they randomly load pictures of all their teams and if you get it right it loads a pair of great photos where one of their track guys appears to be running away from a man with a gun. Great photos.
If anyone wants in on a Morehead State merchandise order let me know in the next couple days and maybe we can save on shipping.
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When it came to my thank yous on Friday I know I would leave someone out so here it is. A big thanks to the 32,500 people who have read this blog since the season started.
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7-2 and 8-2 ... take that Camrose. Your Jr. A team might still be in the playoffs but your Rural Alberta Midgets just got their clocks cleaned.
How about those Panthers? They looked great on Saturday night when I took in game one of that best of three series and now get the matchup everyone expected when the RAMHL playoffs started facing Peace River in the final. No dates set for the games but I'll pass them along when I find out.
-----
AJHL playoffs are continuing but my weekend off might have discouraged the guys who leave the voicers.
In Okotoks
In Brooks
In Spruce Grove
In Grande Prairie
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Power Rankings
1. Brooks Bandits
2. Spruce Grove Saints
3. Olds Grizzlys
4. Sherwood Park Crusaders
5. Fort McMurray Oil Barons
6. Grande Prairie Storm
7. Okotoks Oilers
8. Camrose Kodiaks
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Big game this Saturday at the University of Wisconsin Superior as the Yellowjackets host Gustavus Adolphus for the right to move on to the NCAA Div III Final Four in Lake Placid New York.
The Yellowjacket squad features former Pontiacs Logan Isley and Brayden Kolisniak.
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The upset wasn't meant to be for the Battleford Stars of the SJHL who forced the top ranked Humboldt Broncos to 6 games in the second round but couldn't pull it out in the end.
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For us college basketball fans out there the Morehead State Eagles captured the Ohio Valley Conference and earned a birth into March Madness with the win. The Eagles athletics program isn't exactly a basketball powerhouse but they do have a track team and a rifle team and when you visit their homepage they randomly load pictures of all their teams and if you get it right it loads a pair of great photos where one of their track guys appears to be running away from a man with a gun. Great photos.
If anyone wants in on a Morehead State merchandise order let me know in the next couple days and maybe we can save on shipping.
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When it came to my thank yous on Friday I know I would leave someone out so here it is. A big thanks to the 32,500 people who have read this blog since the season started.
Friday, March 6, 2009
FRIDAY -- thank you to our sponsors
I want to take the time to say thank you to a few people.
All of our Sponsors on B and R Eckles Pontiacs hockey throughout the year have been tremendous and we couldn't get the games on air without you. A special thank you goes to B and R Eckles who have held the naming rights for the last couple of seasons and Telephone Connections who jumped on board with the pregame show this year as well as their sponsorship of the playoff preview show. Everyone else who spent money on commercials you have at least one new customer in this play by play guy.
A big thanks to colour commentator Denis Fontaine who volunteers his time to add his unique perspective and passion to our home broadcasts and as many road games as possible. In my opinion he's the best in the league.
Our games don't get on the air without the work of Bobby May who sits in the studio and presses the right (most of the time) buttons while listening to each and every broadcast.
A thank you to Ryan Bailey and Dean Lee who helped down the stretch collecting locker room interviews during intermissions and a thanks to the Pontiacs organization for granting us the kind of access not usually seen at this level.
And to the AJHL. The best junior A league in Canada.
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Bell Television has the worst music I've ever had to listen to while waiting on hold.
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The NE Panters begin round 2 tomorrow night when the host the Camrose Kodiaks. The Panthers finished 2nd in the RAMHL this year while the baby Kods have the number 3 seed. Puck drop is 6:00 at the RJ with game two in Camrose on Sunday.
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Former Pontiac Chris Jung has 4 points in seven games as the Battleford North Stars have tied their second round series at 2 with the number one team in Saskatchewan the Humboldt Broncos. Many didn't expect the North Stars to make it out of round 1 as they had just 15 wins on the season.
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I'm told Marc Antoine Juneau has his surgery scheduled for today. Good luck Marc.
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If you are in Olds I don't really see why you wouldn't be at the Sports Complex tonight. I'll probably be dropping by work tonight to try and listen to some of the game online.
All of our Sponsors on B and R Eckles Pontiacs hockey throughout the year have been tremendous and we couldn't get the games on air without you. A special thank you goes to B and R Eckles who have held the naming rights for the last couple of seasons and Telephone Connections who jumped on board with the pregame show this year as well as their sponsorship of the playoff preview show. Everyone else who spent money on commercials you have at least one new customer in this play by play guy.
A big thanks to colour commentator Denis Fontaine who volunteers his time to add his unique perspective and passion to our home broadcasts and as many road games as possible. In my opinion he's the best in the league.
Our games don't get on the air without the work of Bobby May who sits in the studio and presses the right (most of the time) buttons while listening to each and every broadcast.
A thank you to Ryan Bailey and Dean Lee who helped down the stretch collecting locker room interviews during intermissions and a thanks to the Pontiacs organization for granting us the kind of access not usually seen at this level.
And to the AJHL. The best junior A league in Canada.
-----
Bell Television has the worst music I've ever had to listen to while waiting on hold.
-----
The NE Panters begin round 2 tomorrow night when the host the Camrose Kodiaks. The Panthers finished 2nd in the RAMHL this year while the baby Kods have the number 3 seed. Puck drop is 6:00 at the RJ with game two in Camrose on Sunday.
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Former Pontiac Chris Jung has 4 points in seven games as the Battleford North Stars have tied their second round series at 2 with the number one team in Saskatchewan the Humboldt Broncos. Many didn't expect the North Stars to make it out of round 1 as they had just 15 wins on the season.
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I'm told Marc Antoine Juneau has his surgery scheduled for today. Good luck Marc.
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If you are in Olds I don't really see why you wouldn't be at the Sports Complex tonight. I'll probably be dropping by work tonight to try and listen to some of the game online.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
THURSDAY -- feels like a friday.
I ran into a few guys from the team last night. They are still in disbelief that they didn't win game 4. The fact is that the better team lost game 4 but if they had been the better team all series they wouldn't have been in the position to be eliminated.
Most of the team is sticking around town this weekend before heading home early next week.
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I had somebody ask me why I refer to the Oil Barons as the MOB. After explaining how you can shorten McMurray Oil Barons to MOB they asked if I could add in the Fort and start referring to them as the F'n MOB.
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Anyone have any suggestions on how I can get out of work and make it to Olds to take in a game 5? Maybe more importantly anyone have any ideas on how I can explain that one to the wife?
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When Greg Brown scored to get Bonnyville to within one I really thought the hockey gods wanted the Pontiacs to win. Two goals all year. Both in Fort McMurray and the first one sparked a come from behind overtime win.
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We will look to continue the Around the league voicers as the playoffs move along if I can find guys (or gals) who are working the round 2 series.
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Ted was our next door neighbour growing up in Regina. He had a longer driveway with less cracks in it so we would play shinny in his yard. He never seemed to mind the tennis ball marks on his fence.
Edward (Ted) Ralph Madill August 7, 1928 January 28, 2009 Edward Ralph (Ted) Madill passed away on January 28, 2009 at Regina, SK. Ted was born August 7, 1928 on the family farm near Alton, ON and was predeceased by his father and mother, Fred and May (Coleman) Madill; brothers, Raymond and Bill; and sisters-inlaw, Merle Madill, Marie Madill and Leona Williamson. Ted is survived by his beloved wife, Lorraine (Lori); brother, John; brotherin-law Claire Williamson; sister-in-law, Marion Madill; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. After finishing Grade 12 at Alton, Ted joined the RCMP in 1948 and trained at Regina, SK and Rockcliffe, ON. He served for eleven years at several detachments in New Brunswick followed by three years at Queens' University at Kingston, ON where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He was then posted to Ottawa, Toronto and Regina where he retired from the Force in 1983 as a Superintendent with 35 years service. He then began a new career as the Rentalsman of Saskatchewan and Chairman of the Provincial Mediation Board, serving Saskatchewan for nine years, finally retiring in 1993. Ted was an active member of the RCMP Veterans' Association, a Director of the Friends of the Mounted Police Museum, a Past Master of NWMP #11 Masonic Lodge, a member of the Scottish Rite and the Wa Wa Shrine. Most of all, Ted was a man of unshakeable honesty and integrity. These principles guided his life.
Most of the team is sticking around town this weekend before heading home early next week.
-----
I had somebody ask me why I refer to the Oil Barons as the MOB. After explaining how you can shorten McMurray Oil Barons to MOB they asked if I could add in the Fort and start referring to them as the F'n MOB.
-----
Anyone have any suggestions on how I can get out of work and make it to Olds to take in a game 5? Maybe more importantly anyone have any ideas on how I can explain that one to the wife?
-----
When Greg Brown scored to get Bonnyville to within one I really thought the hockey gods wanted the Pontiacs to win. Two goals all year. Both in Fort McMurray and the first one sparked a come from behind overtime win.
-----
We will look to continue the Around the league voicers as the playoffs move along if I can find guys (or gals) who are working the round 2 series.
-----
Ted was our next door neighbour growing up in Regina. He had a longer driveway with less cracks in it so we would play shinny in his yard. He never seemed to mind the tennis ball marks on his fence.
Edward (Ted) Ralph Madill August 7, 1928 January 28, 2009 Edward Ralph (Ted) Madill passed away on January 28, 2009 at Regina, SK. Ted was born August 7, 1928 on the family farm near Alton, ON and was predeceased by his father and mother, Fred and May (Coleman) Madill; brothers, Raymond and Bill; and sisters-inlaw, Merle Madill, Marie Madill and Leona Williamson. Ted is survived by his beloved wife, Lorraine (Lori); brother, John; brotherin-law Claire Williamson; sister-in-law, Marion Madill; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. After finishing Grade 12 at Alton, Ted joined the RCMP in 1948 and trained at Regina, SK and Rockcliffe, ON. He served for eleven years at several detachments in New Brunswick followed by three years at Queens' University at Kingston, ON where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He was then posted to Ottawa, Toronto and Regina where he retired from the Force in 1983 as a Superintendent with 35 years service. He then began a new career as the Rentalsman of Saskatchewan and Chairman of the Provincial Mediation Board, serving Saskatchewan for nine years, finally retiring in 1993. Ted was an active member of the RCMP Veterans' Association, a Director of the Friends of the Mounted Police Museum, a Past Master of NWMP #11 Masonic Lodge, a member of the Scottish Rite and the Wa Wa Shrine. Most of all, Ted was a man of unshakeable honesty and integrity. These principles guided his life.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Oil Barrons Take Series 3-1
Post Game Show with Chad Mercier.
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In St. Albert
In Camrose
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I don't have the energy for much else today.
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In St. Albert
In Camrose
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I don't have the energy for much else today.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Oil Barrons lead series 2-1
The message being spread among the Pontiacs players today in the hotel is that 5-0, 12-0 or 4-3 in OT it doesn't matter a loss is a loss and there isn't anything you can do about it now.
Put it behind you and look forward to game 4 with an opportunity to send the series back to your home town rink for a deciding fifth game.
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It's not updated on the AJHL website but Greg Hennessey will receive a three game suspension. He has already sat out two games so he will miss game 4 tonight and will be ready to go if there is a game 5 in Bonnyville on Thursday.
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Post game with coach Gord Thibodeau.
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Around the AJHL with TheRobbHunter.com
In Fort McMurray
In St. Albert
In Lloydminster
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I've received word from back home that there is a large contingent of Pontiacs fans making the trip up for the game tonight. It should be a good one and seriously ..... what does anyone actually have to do at work tomorrow?
I've also been told about a couple different Pontiacs listening parties going on in Bonnyville where groups of fans are getting together to listen to the game. I hope I do it justice and hello from us up here in Fort McMurray.
Put it behind you and look forward to game 4 with an opportunity to send the series back to your home town rink for a deciding fifth game.
-----
It's not updated on the AJHL website but Greg Hennessey will receive a three game suspension. He has already sat out two games so he will miss game 4 tonight and will be ready to go if there is a game 5 in Bonnyville on Thursday.
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Post game with coach Gord Thibodeau.
-----
Around the AJHL with TheRobbHunter.com
In Fort McMurray
In St. Albert
In Lloydminster
-----
I've received word from back home that there is a large contingent of Pontiacs fans making the trip up for the game tonight. It should be a good one and seriously ..... what does anyone actually have to do at work tomorrow?
I've also been told about a couple different Pontiacs listening parties going on in Bonnyville where groups of fans are getting together to listen to the game. I hope I do it justice and hello from us up here in Fort McMurray.
Monday, March 2, 2009
POWER RANKINGS playoff edition
1. Spruce Grove Saints
2. Brooks Bandits
3. Okotoks Oilers
4. Sherwood Park Crusaders
5. Camrose Kodiaks
6. Grande Prairie Storm
7. Olds Grizzlys
8. Lloydminster Bobcats
8. Fort McMurray Oil Barrons
9. Bonnyville Pontiacs
10. Drumheller Dragons
12. Calgary Canucks
13. St. Albert Steel
14. Canmore Eagles
2. Brooks Bandits
3. Okotoks Oilers
4. Sherwood Park Crusaders
5. Camrose Kodiaks
6. Grande Prairie Storm
7. Olds Grizzlys
8. Lloydminster Bobcats
8. Fort McMurray Oil Barrons
9. Bonnyville Pontiacs
10. Drumheller Dragons
12. Calgary Canucks
13. St. Albert Steel
14. Canmore Eagles
Game Day
In true Lamb Choppian fashion the Suspension goes on and on my friends. Brad Stebner will not play tonight and neither will Greg Hennessey.
Hennessey was on the bus to Fort McMurray today. I kind of thought he would be headed to a conference with league brass as the last person I remember being suspended "until further notice" is Sean Avery and that until further notice part was dropped once he flew to New York to meet with Gary Bettman. Avery was then told how many games he would have to miss. The last player I remember being suspended "until further notice" who never really found out how long he was going to be gone for was Todd Bertuzzi.
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Blake Clement of the Grande Prairie Storm was informed he would get 2 games for an eye gouge on Lloydminster Bobcat Bobby Spigott.
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Talking to a few players while on the trip it's evident they have put the Hennessey situation behind them. They know it is out of their control and they will let people higher up in the organization deal with that aspect of their series. The players are doing a good job of looking forward and the mood seemed light heading into a very important game three tonight.
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Around the league
In Okotoks
In Calgary
In Olds
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The illusion of Thickwood Heights Arena. I've done a couple interviews in the last few days where I have been asked what kind of chances the Pontiacs have now that Fort McMurray has home ice advantage.
It's a common assumption that Thickwood is one of the hardest rinks around the league to get a win and while that has been true in the past it's not so much the case this year. Since November the MOB are 9-11 at home. I was shocked when I looked but that's two games under .500 and looking further two of those wins were against Drayton Valley.
-----
We are back on the road which means I got to watch Matlock figure out who the murderer was while he was in hospital. Is there anything he can't do?
Hennessey was on the bus to Fort McMurray today. I kind of thought he would be headed to a conference with league brass as the last person I remember being suspended "until further notice" is Sean Avery and that until further notice part was dropped once he flew to New York to meet with Gary Bettman. Avery was then told how many games he would have to miss. The last player I remember being suspended "until further notice" who never really found out how long he was going to be gone for was Todd Bertuzzi.
-----
Blake Clement of the Grande Prairie Storm was informed he would get 2 games for an eye gouge on Lloydminster Bobcat Bobby Spigott.
-----
Talking to a few players while on the trip it's evident they have put the Hennessey situation behind them. They know it is out of their control and they will let people higher up in the organization deal with that aspect of their series. The players are doing a good job of looking forward and the mood seemed light heading into a very important game three tonight.
-----
Around the league
In Okotoks
In Calgary
In Olds
-----
The illusion of Thickwood Heights Arena. I've done a couple interviews in the last few days where I have been asked what kind of chances the Pontiacs have now that Fort McMurray has home ice advantage.
It's a common assumption that Thickwood is one of the hardest rinks around the league to get a win and while that has been true in the past it's not so much the case this year. Since November the MOB are 9-11 at home. I was shocked when I looked but that's two games under .500 and looking further two of those wins were against Drayton Valley.
-----
We are back on the road which means I got to watch Matlock figure out who the murderer was while he was in hospital. Is there anything he can't do?
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Series Tied 1-1
Assistant coach Ryan Pollock on the post game show.
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Our Dean Lee caught up with MOB coach Gord Thibodeau after the game.
-----
Around the league with TheRobbHunter.com
In Bonnyville
In Grande Prairie
In Sherwood Park
In Okotoks
In Olds
In Calgary
-----
October 29th, 2008 Devon Hobbs goes knee on knee with Pontiacs captain Craig Cuthbert knocking Cuthbert out of the lineup for over a month. Hobbs plays the next night in the rematch with Bonnyville.
January 24th, 2009 Ryan Edens attempts to decapitate Craig Cuthbert as Cuthbert carries the puck across the blueline. Cuthbert misses another month.
January 9th, 2009 Marc Antoine Juneau tears ligaments in his knee ending his season after being hit by a member of the Lloydminster Bobcats. Juneau is still awaiting surgery at home in Quebec.
January 23,rd 2009 Alex Grill Donovan breaks his leg by going awkwardly into the boards with a member of the Spruce Grove Saints. While the hit was not dirty it did result in a season ending injury.
February 16th, 2008 Colin Scherger of the Brooks Bandits sticks his knee out on Jeremy Gerhardt in the neutral zone. Not only did Gerhardt miss the end of last season but rehab took so long that he missed the first 2 weeks of this season.
March 14th, 2008 Game 5 of round 2. Pontiacs Captain Jamie Sadlowski is checked from behind into the boards causing a shoulder separation. Sadlowski doesn't play in the 6th and deciding game in that series and the injury contributes to his decision to focus solely on golf and not come back for his 20 year old season so as not to risk further injury.
There were no "indefinate suspensions" handed out.
-----
The Greg Hennessey suspension was not the reason the Bonnyville Pontiacs lost last night. The better team won the hockey game and the Pontiacs know they need to be better come Monday night.
The Pontiacs best players will need to show up and actually be their best players and if Hennessey is back in the lineup it will help.
-----
I'll be using the night off to watch my first ever sledge hockey game. There are a couple opportunities to catch Matt Cook in action tonight with a gold medal on the line.
From Hockey Canada:
Canada’s National Sledge Team will face the United States on Sunday, March 1 in the gold medal game the 2009 Hockey Canada Cup, a four-team tournament being held as a test event for the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games.
Sunday’s gold medal game will be played at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET and can be seen LIVE on TSN2 coast-to-coast. The main TSN network will carry the game on tape delay at 9 p.m. PT/midnight ET. Dave Randorf will provide play-by-play coverage, with Jake Snyder as colour commentator. This is the first time a sledge hockey game has been shown on live TV in Canada.
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Our Dean Lee caught up with MOB coach Gord Thibodeau after the game.
-----
Around the league with TheRobbHunter.com
In Bonnyville
In Grande Prairie
In Sherwood Park
In Okotoks
In Olds
In Calgary
-----
October 29th, 2008 Devon Hobbs goes knee on knee with Pontiacs captain Craig Cuthbert knocking Cuthbert out of the lineup for over a month. Hobbs plays the next night in the rematch with Bonnyville.
January 24th, 2009 Ryan Edens attempts to decapitate Craig Cuthbert as Cuthbert carries the puck across the blueline. Cuthbert misses another month.
January 9th, 2009 Marc Antoine Juneau tears ligaments in his knee ending his season after being hit by a member of the Lloydminster Bobcats. Juneau is still awaiting surgery at home in Quebec.
January 23,rd 2009 Alex Grill Donovan breaks his leg by going awkwardly into the boards with a member of the Spruce Grove Saints. While the hit was not dirty it did result in a season ending injury.
February 16th, 2008 Colin Scherger of the Brooks Bandits sticks his knee out on Jeremy Gerhardt in the neutral zone. Not only did Gerhardt miss the end of last season but rehab took so long that he missed the first 2 weeks of this season.
March 14th, 2008 Game 5 of round 2. Pontiacs Captain Jamie Sadlowski is checked from behind into the boards causing a shoulder separation. Sadlowski doesn't play in the 6th and deciding game in that series and the injury contributes to his decision to focus solely on golf and not come back for his 20 year old season so as not to risk further injury.
There were no "indefinate suspensions" handed out.
-----
The Greg Hennessey suspension was not the reason the Bonnyville Pontiacs lost last night. The better team won the hockey game and the Pontiacs know they need to be better come Monday night.
The Pontiacs best players will need to show up and actually be their best players and if Hennessey is back in the lineup it will help.
-----
I'll be using the night off to watch my first ever sledge hockey game. There are a couple opportunities to catch Matt Cook in action tonight with a gold medal on the line.
From Hockey Canada:
Canada’s National Sledge Team will face the United States on Sunday, March 1 in the gold medal game the 2009 Hockey Canada Cup, a four-team tournament being held as a test event for the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games.
Sunday’s gold medal game will be played at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET and can be seen LIVE on TSN2 coast-to-coast. The main TSN network will carry the game on tape delay at 9 p.m. PT/midnight ET. Dave Randorf will provide play-by-play coverage, with Jake Snyder as colour commentator. This is the first time a sledge hockey game has been shown on live TV in Canada.
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