Hammer
Please visit the links and support my friends and supporters!!!
Saturday, July 30, 2011
On Location today at Alberni Toyota, Wakeboarding competition on this weekend, Tlu-Piich games open Tuesday!!
Just plain WOW, is maybe the best way to describe the brand new Alberni Toyota at the top of the town. I'm here until 2pm today for 93.3 The Peak with the NEW Peak sticker and our new Peak swag, so get up here and see me and more importantly, see this incredible new facility. What an investment in the Alberni Valley...if you think it looks good when you are driving in on the highway, you gotta see how good it looks when you are inside it seeing all it has to offer! A Cafe, a Salon, Computer workstations, a customer lounge with flat screens and a fireplace, a kids play area...it's incredible!
Also don't forget to get out to the Sproat Lake Watersports Association site this weekend for some great Wakeboarding action!
The Tlu-Piich games also get going Tuesday with a Golf Tournament at the Alberni Golf Club. Tuesday is also the deadline to get your entries in for the Slo-pitch and Fast-pitch tournament next weekend. Contact Games Coordinator Richard Samuel at 250-724-5757 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 250-724-5757 end_of_the_skype_highlightingemail him HERE or visit the Tlu-Piich games on Facebook HERE
Hammer
Hammer
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Toyota Grand Opening today, action at Sproat Lake Watersports Association this weekend....
Congrats to the Alberni Auto Group and the See Group of Companies on the Grand Opening of Alberni Toyota today from 3pm to 6pm. I'll be there on behalf of 93.3 The Peak from 10am to 2pm on Saturday!
This is always fun, hope the weather holds out for the weekend!
A couple pictures of Head Coach Paul Esdale and Director of Hockey Ops Rick Schievink from the introduction of the Kalashnikov brothers Friday at Boston Pizza. I had to miss the event as I was at the B.C Lions game, but I heard it was well attended.
Hammer
This is always fun, hope the weather holds out for the weekend!
Hammer
Friday, July 22, 2011
Go Lions!
Hammer
Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com
Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.
Meet the Kalashnikovs tonight at Boston Pizza!
The guys will be presented their jerseys, and they will also be signing autographs. All tonight at Boston Pizza from 6pm to 8pm. I sadly won't be able to attend as I'm heading over to Vancouver with my buddy Jade as we are catching the B.C Lions game as they look for their first win of the season as they host the Hamilton Tiger Cats. The battle of the Felines!
Hammer
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Meet the Kalashnikovs Friday at Boston Pizza, belated congrats to Tom McEvay
The Kalashnikov brothers played for the Grand Forks Border Bruins of KIJHL Junior B League. The 5’9” 165 pound brothers moved from Minsk, Belarus to Port Coquitlam two years ago to pursue their hockey careers. Yan posted 21 goals, 24 assists for 45 points in 39 games last season, while Artsiom posted 13 goals, 22 assists for 35 points in 36 games.
They reminded me of the Sedins in Spring Camp the way they moved the puck and the way they were able to find each other. I predict that we will enjoy watching these guys. Here's hoping they can raise their play to do the same thing in the 2011-2012 season!
_________________________
Belated congrats to Tom McEvay, winner of the "Spirit of Hockeyville" Award. For all that he has done, and continues to do, for the team and the community one day he will have an award named for him! Apologies for missing this while I was on Holidays. Congrats Tom!
The 2010 recipient of the Spirit of Hockeyville Fairness Award, given annually to the individual or team associated with hockey in the Alberni Valley that best exemplify fairness, sportsmanship and cooperation, is Alberni Valley Bulldogs education adviser Tom McEvay.
McEvay is a goaltender and played competitive junior hockey, including a stint with the Junior Canucks in the early 1970’s. He has been a teacher and principal within the Alberni Valley for over thirty years and has always been an outstanding volunteer and leader. He was an integral part of the fundraising to build the Alberni Valley Multiplex, he helped to secure the Alberni Valley Bulldogs franchise, he was a driving force behind the community’s participation in the 2006 Hockeyville competition and he helped to oversee the 2009 World Under 17 Hockey Challenge as Co Chair. Tom approaches everything with enthusiasm, detail, professionalism and a never say die attitude.
What has singled out McEvay for this award in 2010 is his role with the Bulldogs as has helped over 70 players move on to participate in college hockey in Canada and the United States and has helped to raise academic standards in the BCHL.
“Tom McEvay has proven himself to be one of the hardest working and dedicated individuals I have come in contact with in my professional life." said Bulldogs president and governor Andy Oakes. "His commitment to education with the players and helping them advance is second to none in the industry. The Bulldogs are very fortunate to have Tom here looking after this side of the team."
“I consider Tom a friend of the BCHL but more importantly a friend to every young man that needs advice, support and direction as they make decisions on their future be it education, hockey or just life in general," said BCHL commissioner John Grisdale.
“The Alberni Valley is proud to recognize Tom McEvay for his dedication and unselfish contributions to the game of Hockey in our community," said Mayor Ken McRae of the City of Port Alberni. "We appreciate his tireless effort to advance young men into the college hockey ranks.”
Bulldog players past and present recognize the challenge of entering college with a scholarship and McEvau has always been there to help guide them through the complex rules and extreme competition.
"Beyond his tireless work as educational advisor, he truly, truly cares about us as players and people," said former Bulldog and current Princeton University player Kevin Ross. "I can't think of a better choice for the Spirit of Hockeyville award.”
The carving for the trophy presented to McEvay was commissioned by the Tseshaht First Nation and was carved by Jake Gallic. The carving is of two wolf heads, which represent cooperation and team work. The base was assembled by Roy Eggler.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Bulldogs add five, lose four, 2011-2012 BCHL schedule released
A very busy news day today around Bulldog land.
The Bulldogs announced five additions to their roster, while they also announced four departures. It's the "Circle of Life" of Junior Hockey, to steal a line from the Lion King. Players come and players go. The hope is that the new recruits can fill the sizable holes left by the players saying goodbye. We'll miss you Casey Bailey, Connor Varley, Kenney Morrison and Brandon Adams. Welcome to the team Yan and Arty, and Ryan, Brandon and Chase!
Kalashnikov Brothers Lead Group in Bulldog Roster Changes
PRESS RELEASE
July 19th 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs would like to announce that 92 F Yan Kalashnikov and 93 F Artsiom Kalashnikov,93 F Ryan Lough, 93 D Brandon Halls and92 D Chase Van Allen all have committed for the
2011-2012 season.
Originally from Minsk, Belarus the Kalashnikov brothers played for the Grand Forks Border Bruins of KIJHL Junior B League. The 5’9” 165 pound brothers moved from Belarus to Port Coquitlam two years ago to pursue their hockey careers.Yan posted 21 goals, 24 assists for 45 points in 39 games last season, while Artsiom posted 13 goals, 22 assists for 35 points in 36 games.
“The Kalashnikov brothers will bring people to their feet in the dogpound. Their skill level, competitveness and creativity will be exciting to watch, “ comments Head Coach/Assistant Director of Hockey Operations Paul Esdale. “We are thrilled to have Yan and Arty wear the Bulldogs uniform,” adds Esdale.
Ryan Lough, an Ontario native played for the Notre Dame Argos of the Saskatchewan Midget AAA league. Lough posted 16 goals, 31 assists for 47 points in 50 games last season. The 5’11” 170 pound Lough will add speed and skill to the Bulldogs roster.
“Ryan has great speed, vision and playmaking abilities which will help create offensive chances in all different situations, “ comments Esdale. “Ryan comes from a great program in Notre Dame, which will help him make the transition to the BCHL level.We are very excited to have Ryan come to the Bulldogs and look forward to him contributing immediatley to the team,” adds Esdale.
1993 Defenseman Brandon Halls spent last year with the Penticton Lakers of the KIJHL where he posted 8 goals and 14 assists for 22 points in 43 games. The 5’6”, 170 pound Calgary native will add speed and smarts to the defense core.
“Halls maybe short in stature, but he competes harder then anyone on the ice. He displays a great understanding of the game and will add plenty of offense to the back end,” states Esdale.
1992 Defenseman Chase Van Allen comes over from the Alaska Avalanche of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). Chase played two seasons for Alaska posting 2 goals, 24 assists for 26 points and 113 penalty minutes in 92 games. Originally from Anchorage, Alaska the 5’11” 180 pound defender looks to be a solid two way defenseman for the Bulldogs.
“Van Allen will bring experience and add another guy who can skate and make the first pass out of his end. Chase will be looked upon to play in all situations and lead by example on and off the ice,” said Esdale.
Director of hockey operations Rick Schievink adds:
“With the overall speed and skill level of the BCHL we are always looking to upgrade and with the addition of these promising young athletes there is no question we will have speed, and skill up front. We know that it will take time for these players to adjust to this level and it should be both interesting and exciting to watch them grow and develop.”
“Perhaps the most promising news for me is how much they are looking forward to playing here and making the Alberni Valley their home. They all are highly competitive players and they want to make a difference both on and off the ice, “adds Schievink.
In other news: American born players Casey Bailey, Connor Varley, Brandon Adams and Lloydminster, Alberta native Kenny Morrison all have opted to play in the United States Hockey League (USHL) next season. We thank all the players for their contributions to the community and team last season.
For more information please contact Director of Hockey Operations Rick Schievink at 250-723-4412 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 250-723-4412 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
The 2011-2012 schedule was also released by the league yesterday. The Bulldogs open at home on September 24th against Coquitlam. They will then host Victoria the following Friday before seeing their first road action the next night in Duncan against the Capitals. Coquitlam is back at the Dog Pound the next afternoon for a 2:30pm puck drop on Sunday, October 2nd. The Bulldogs Regular Season concludes with three straight at home with Game 60 going Sunday, March 11th at 2:30 as Langley is in town.
For the full schedule, CLICK HERE
For some details on how the league put the schedule together, visit the League Website story HERE
Hammer
The Bulldogs announced five additions to their roster, while they also announced four departures. It's the "Circle of Life" of Junior Hockey, to steal a line from the Lion King. Players come and players go. The hope is that the new recruits can fill the sizable holes left by the players saying goodbye. We'll miss you Casey Bailey, Connor Varley, Kenney Morrison and Brandon Adams. Welcome to the team Yan and Arty, and Ryan, Brandon and Chase!
Kalashnikov Brothers Lead Group in Bulldog Roster Changes
PRESS RELEASE
July 19th 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs would like to announce that 92 F Yan Kalashnikov and 93 F Artsiom Kalashnikov,93 F Ryan Lough, 93 D Brandon Halls and92 D Chase Van Allen all have committed for the
2011-2012 season.
Originally from Minsk, Belarus the Kalashnikov brothers played for the Grand Forks Border Bruins of KIJHL Junior B League. The 5’9” 165 pound brothers moved from Belarus to Port Coquitlam two years ago to pursue their hockey careers.Yan posted 21 goals, 24 assists for 45 points in 39 games last season, while Artsiom posted 13 goals, 22 assists for 35 points in 36 games.
“The Kalashnikov brothers will bring people to their feet in the dogpound. Their skill level, competitveness and creativity will be exciting to watch, “ comments Head Coach/Assistant Director of Hockey Operations Paul Esdale. “We are thrilled to have Yan and Arty wear the Bulldogs uniform,” adds Esdale.
Ryan Lough, an Ontario native played for the Notre Dame Argos of the Saskatchewan Midget AAA league. Lough posted 16 goals, 31 assists for 47 points in 50 games last season. The 5’11” 170 pound Lough will add speed and skill to the Bulldogs roster.
“Ryan has great speed, vision and playmaking abilities which will help create offensive chances in all different situations, “ comments Esdale. “Ryan comes from a great program in Notre Dame, which will help him make the transition to the BCHL level.We are very excited to have Ryan come to the Bulldogs and look forward to him contributing immediatley to the team,” adds Esdale.
1993 Defenseman Brandon Halls spent last year with the Penticton Lakers of the KIJHL where he posted 8 goals and 14 assists for 22 points in 43 games. The 5’6”, 170 pound Calgary native will add speed and smarts to the defense core.
“Halls maybe short in stature, but he competes harder then anyone on the ice. He displays a great understanding of the game and will add plenty of offense to the back end,” states Esdale.
1992 Defenseman Chase Van Allen comes over from the Alaska Avalanche of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). Chase played two seasons for Alaska posting 2 goals, 24 assists for 26 points and 113 penalty minutes in 92 games. Originally from Anchorage, Alaska the 5’11” 180 pound defender looks to be a solid two way defenseman for the Bulldogs.
“Van Allen will bring experience and add another guy who can skate and make the first pass out of his end. Chase will be looked upon to play in all situations and lead by example on and off the ice,” said Esdale.
Director of hockey operations Rick Schievink adds:
“With the overall speed and skill level of the BCHL we are always looking to upgrade and with the addition of these promising young athletes there is no question we will have speed, and skill up front. We know that it will take time for these players to adjust to this level and it should be both interesting and exciting to watch them grow and develop.”
“Perhaps the most promising news for me is how much they are looking forward to playing here and making the Alberni Valley their home. They all are highly competitive players and they want to make a difference both on and off the ice, “adds Schievink.
In other news: American born players Casey Bailey, Connor Varley, Brandon Adams and Lloydminster, Alberta native Kenny Morrison all have opted to play in the United States Hockey League (USHL) next season. We thank all the players for their contributions to the community and team last season.
For more information please contact Director of Hockey Operations Rick Schievink at 250-723-4412 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 250-723-4412 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
The 2011-2012 schedule was also released by the league yesterday. The Bulldogs open at home on September 24th against Coquitlam. They will then host Victoria the following Friday before seeing their first road action the next night in Duncan against the Capitals. Coquitlam is back at the Dog Pound the next afternoon for a 2:30pm puck drop on Sunday, October 2nd. The Bulldogs Regular Season concludes with three straight at home with Game 60 going Sunday, March 11th at 2:30 as Langley is in town.
For the full schedule, CLICK HERE
For some details on how the league put the schedule together, visit the League Website story HERE
Hammer
Monday, July 18, 2011
Blazers take Bronze, Sakic drills Hole-in-One, Alberni Golf Club Update, Toyota opens today...
The 2011 Squirt Boys Provincial Fast-pitch Championships were played at the Echo Diamonds over the weekend with the host Alberni Valley Blazers taking home the Bronze medals.
After playing 4 round robin games, the Blazers entered the double knockout playoff round seeded 4th and faced the Whalley Ravens in their first playoff game, winning 13 – 6 but then dropped an 8 – 1 decision to the Clearwater Stingers in their next game. Facing elimination, the Blazers rebounded to knock out the Prince George Thunderbirds by a score of 15 – 9. The Blazers then met the Fleetwood Outlaws from Surrey. The local team was down 9 – 1 after 3 innings but rallied back only to come up one run short, losing the game 9 – 8, to claim the bronze.
Fleetwood advanced to the final but was quickly sent packing, 10 – 2, by the team from Clearwater who completed the tournament with a perfect 7 and 0 record to earn Gold.
7 Teams from around the province competed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday in less than perfect weather conditions as mother nature didn’t always cooperate but a big effort from organizers and the grounds crew kept the fields playable and although there were some rain delays all games were played.
Congrats to the Blazers and all competitors!!
_________________________
Pretty cool stuff here at former Nordique (man, still miss the Nords) and Avalanche legend (Burnaby) Joe Sakic drilled a Million Dollar Hole-In-One in a charity event over the weekend! You can still see lots of "hockey" in his swing!
_______________________________
And here's the update from Gerry Fagan from the Alberni Golf Club
In Men’s Club Action on Sunday, Cory Neilson had the best of the day shooting a gross 78, taking home 3 balls, while Livio Tedesco came in with 80 to win two balls. On the net side, Doug Richmond shot 66 winning 3 balls, and Ron Barker carded a 67 to win 2 balls.
Closest to the pin winners were, Livio Tedesco on #2, Steve Acland collected $25 for the Charity Closest to the pin on #4, Craig Acland for his long drive on #5, Bret Parhar for his second shot on #6, Tom Price on #13, and Wolf Suhr on # 17.
This Sunday July 24th is the Van Isle Ford two man Iron Man. The format is 2 man teams with the best net and best gross counting on each hole. The shotgun is set to go off at 8 AM. Please try to be there no later than 7:45. Register with your partner in the Pro Shop or as a single and Bruce or Brian will find you partner. You can also sign up by phoning, 250-723-5422 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 250-723-5422 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.
Once again thanks go out to our many sponsors, for their generous contributions this season.
And here's another quick note from when I was away from Gerry regarding the Alberni Valley Charity Golf Classic...Don't thank me Gerry, YOU are the one who deserves Thanks as you do all the work...I'm just doing my job! Thanks for the kind note though! I'm happy to hear the Charity was a success this year!
Hi Evan
It looks like we have another winner, as far as the Charity goes. There were lots of positive comments regarding the changes implemented this year. I would like to on behalf of the entire Committee thank you for your continued support in helping us get the word out to the public. You're a good man.
Gerry.
________________________________
Last but not least - huge congrats to the See Group of Companies and the Alberni Auto Group, more specifically Alberni Toyota, on the opening of the new dealership today at the "Top of the Town" next door to Alberni Chrysler. I was blown away at the progress when we drove back into town on Saturday night. A huge investment in the Alberni Valley! I don't have a picture of the finished product, so I encourage you to get up there and see it for yourself!
That's it for now...catching up on REAL LIFE being back at work and back in the Valley today!
Hammer
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Greetings from Duck Lake, Saskatchewan...
Hope the weather shapes up out there before we get back!
Hammer
Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com
Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Anniversary Logos on Dog Pound Ice
These will grace the Dog Pound ice in each end of the rink in the high slot. Just the first of many special touches to commemorate 10 years of Alberni Valley Bulldog hockey this season!
Hammer
Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com
Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.
Thursday, July 07, 2011
Gone Fishin' / Swimmin' Blogger on Holidays...
Cheers,
Hammer
Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com
Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.
Bulldogs finalize local management structure, changes to Bulldogs Broadcasts on 93.3 The Peak...
Hello from the lake! Sorry this news is posted late, and sorry I missed you all at the Press Conference yesterday. I was somewhere between Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and Flin Flon, Manitoba on the first official day of my holidays. Huge congrats to Rick, a great hire by the Dogs. I have to run, internet connection is spotty and the lake is calling my name!
Hammer
Bulldogs finalize local management structure
Rick Schievink hired as Director of Hockey Operations
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are proud to announce that local resident Rick Schievink has been hired as Director of Hockey Operations. This hiring represents the final piece of the club‟s new local management structure. Rick Schievink was born and raised in Alberni Valley. He started playing hockey
early in AVMHA and continued playing through the Rep program as one of the original Timbermen. He moved up to Junior A playing in Kelowna and Junior B in Victoria then played in Europe for Nijmegan (Holland 1st Division). Rick's hockey administration career began 20 years ago at the minor hockey level and has progressed through BC Hockey as well as Hockey Canada‟s High Performance programs and Junior „A‟. He has been a Canpower Skating Instructor for Mt. Arrowsmith Skating Club (3 yrs), evaluator for U16 BC Hockey High Performance (since 2001), ADSS Hockey Canada Skills Academy Head Instructor (since 2004) as well as BC U17 High Performance evaluator, manager and coach. His involvement with the Bulldogs organization has included working as Assistant Coach for three seasons, and providing colour commentary for PEAK radio and online broadcasts.
The new local management structure has been put in place to ensure that the team is managed by local Alberni Valley citizens. As a result, the Bulldogs organization will be able to monitor the business and hockey operations on a day-to-day basis on-site, within the Alberni Valley community.
“This is a move by ownership to strengthen the management of the operation to ensure the sustainability of the Bulldogs in Alberni Valley,” said Andy Oakes, President and Governor. “The Bulldogs are a big part of Alberni Valley and the ownership group, which includes local owners Dave Ness and Dennis See, wants to ensure that corporate partners, season ticket holders and fans realize that the team is operated locally. In the time that Okanagan Hockey School has been involved in the ownership of the Bulldogs, every dollar that has been generated by the team has stayed with the Bulldogs organization for their operations.”
Alberni Valley Bulldogs Hockey Club
3737 Roger Street
Port Alberni, B.C., Canada, V9Y 8E3
Phone: 250-723-4412 Fax: 250-723-4452
www.albernivalleybulldogs.ca
Rick will round out the rest of the existing localized management structure, which already includes three key figures:
Ron Paulson
Director of Business Operations
Ron first came to Port Alberni in 1974 to play for the local senior hockey team and has spent over 35 years doing business in the community. In the spring of 2011, he was added to the Bulldogs organization as the Director of Business Operations to build and sustain the team‟s relationship with the local community while overseeing the organization‟s daily business operations.
Ron was Chairman of the World U17 Hockey Challenge in 2009, and worked for the BC Summer and Winter Games when they were hosted in the area. He also sits on the Alberni Valley Tourism board as a sport tourism representative, and acts as Director on the Community Futures board.
Paul Esdale
Head Coach / Assistant Director of Hockey Operations
Paul spent six seasons playing professional hockey in North America and in Europe. Before that, he played in the Alberta Junior Hockey League and earned a scholarship for Brown University where he was the University‟s top scoring team defenseman, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree, majoring in Business Economics.
Paul joined the Bulldogs as Assistant Coach and Assistant General Manager for the 2009-2010 season, and was named Head Coach and General Manager in May 2010. During his two seasons with the Bulldogs, the team has made the playoffs both years. By entering his third year with the Bulldogs, Paul becomes one of the longest serving coaches in the organization‟s history. He and his wife Laura are proud to call Alberni Valley home and are committed to this community.
Tom McEvay
Education Advisor
Tom has been an educator in Alberni Valley for 33 years, and for the past 24 years has been a school principal. In 2004, Tom joined the Bulldogs organization in a volunteer capacity as their Educational Advisor. Tom played minor and Junior hockey in Victoria before heading to the University of British Columbia on a National Molson‟s Hockey Scholarship in 1973.
Since coming to the Valley in 1978, Tom has devoted many years of involvement to coaching and sport administration both in the schools and the community. Most notably Tom is the driving force behind the successful Alberni Valley Wrestling program that has produced dozens of provincial and national stars including 2008 Olympian Travis Cross. He has worked on and/or chaired numerous major events including provincial, national and international wrestling tournaments, minor hockey events, Hockeyville and the World Under 17 Hockey Challenge. Over the past 8 years he has worked with every Bulldog player on their educational, hockey and life goals. Over 70 Bulldog players have moved on to college or university hockey with Tom‟s guidance and support.
For further information please contact:
Andy Oakes
President and Governor
Hammer
Bulldogs finalize local management structure
Rick Schievink hired as Director of Hockey Operations
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are proud to announce that local resident Rick Schievink has been hired as Director of Hockey Operations. This hiring represents the final piece of the club‟s new local management structure. Rick Schievink was born and raised in Alberni Valley. He started playing hockey
early in AVMHA and continued playing through the Rep program as one of the original Timbermen. He moved up to Junior A playing in Kelowna and Junior B in Victoria then played in Europe for Nijmegan (Holland 1st Division). Rick's hockey administration career began 20 years ago at the minor hockey level and has progressed through BC Hockey as well as Hockey Canada‟s High Performance programs and Junior „A‟. He has been a Canpower Skating Instructor for Mt. Arrowsmith Skating Club (3 yrs), evaluator for U16 BC Hockey High Performance (since 2001), ADSS Hockey Canada Skills Academy Head Instructor (since 2004) as well as BC U17 High Performance evaluator, manager and coach. His involvement with the Bulldogs organization has included working as Assistant Coach for three seasons, and providing colour commentary for PEAK radio and online broadcasts.
The new local management structure has been put in place to ensure that the team is managed by local Alberni Valley citizens. As a result, the Bulldogs organization will be able to monitor the business and hockey operations on a day-to-day basis on-site, within the Alberni Valley community.
“This is a move by ownership to strengthen the management of the operation to ensure the sustainability of the Bulldogs in Alberni Valley,” said Andy Oakes, President and Governor. “The Bulldogs are a big part of Alberni Valley and the ownership group, which includes local owners Dave Ness and Dennis See, wants to ensure that corporate partners, season ticket holders and fans realize that the team is operated locally. In the time that Okanagan Hockey School has been involved in the ownership of the Bulldogs, every dollar that has been generated by the team has stayed with the Bulldogs organization for their operations.”
Alberni Valley Bulldogs Hockey Club
3737 Roger Street
Port Alberni, B.C., Canada, V9Y 8E3
Phone: 250-723-4412 Fax: 250-723-4452
www.albernivalleybulldogs.ca
Rick will round out the rest of the existing localized management structure, which already includes three key figures:
Ron Paulson
Director of Business Operations
Ron first came to Port Alberni in 1974 to play for the local senior hockey team and has spent over 35 years doing business in the community. In the spring of 2011, he was added to the Bulldogs organization as the Director of Business Operations to build and sustain the team‟s relationship with the local community while overseeing the organization‟s daily business operations.
Ron was Chairman of the World U17 Hockey Challenge in 2009, and worked for the BC Summer and Winter Games when they were hosted in the area. He also sits on the Alberni Valley Tourism board as a sport tourism representative, and acts as Director on the Community Futures board.
Paul Esdale
Head Coach / Assistant Director of Hockey Operations
Paul spent six seasons playing professional hockey in North America and in Europe. Before that, he played in the Alberta Junior Hockey League and earned a scholarship for Brown University where he was the University‟s top scoring team defenseman, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree, majoring in Business Economics.
Paul joined the Bulldogs as Assistant Coach and Assistant General Manager for the 2009-2010 season, and was named Head Coach and General Manager in May 2010. During his two seasons with the Bulldogs, the team has made the playoffs both years. By entering his third year with the Bulldogs, Paul becomes one of the longest serving coaches in the organization‟s history. He and his wife Laura are proud to call Alberni Valley home and are committed to this community.
Tom McEvay
Education Advisor
Tom has been an educator in Alberni Valley for 33 years, and for the past 24 years has been a school principal. In 2004, Tom joined the Bulldogs organization in a volunteer capacity as their Educational Advisor. Tom played minor and Junior hockey in Victoria before heading to the University of British Columbia on a National Molson‟s Hockey Scholarship in 1973.
Since coming to the Valley in 1978, Tom has devoted many years of involvement to coaching and sport administration both in the schools and the community. Most notably Tom is the driving force behind the successful Alberni Valley Wrestling program that has produced dozens of provincial and national stars including 2008 Olympian Travis Cross. He has worked on and/or chaired numerous major events including provincial, national and international wrestling tournaments, minor hockey events, Hockeyville and the World Under 17 Hockey Challenge. Over the past 8 years he has worked with every Bulldog player on their educational, hockey and life goals. Over 70 Bulldog players have moved on to college or university hockey with Tom‟s guidance and support.
For further information please contact:
Andy Oakes
President and Governor
Saturday, July 02, 2011
Christina Proteau three-peats at home, Jackie Little honoured...
(image: Times Colonist)
What a day yesterday for Christina Spence, Jackie Little, and everyone involved in any way, shape or form at the Alberni Golf Club be it Director to DUFFER. Congrats to all!
Read more from Victoria's Times Colonist in a great story by Ron Rauch HERE
I wish I could have made it but I was commentating the parade and then entertaining the kids at the Canada Day Ceremonies at the Glenwood Centre!
Be safe and smart this long weekend!
Hammer
Friday, July 01, 2011
Canucks keep Higgins, Salo off the market - sportsnet.ca WAP
http://wap.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2011/07/01/chris_higgins/
Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com
Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.
Happy 144th Birthday Canada, from the Bulldogs!
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
www.hammersdogs.blogspot.com
Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.
From the Canada Day Parade...
Morning Show Host:
93.3 The Peak FM
Play-by-Play Voice:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Blogger:
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Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.
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