Port Alberni, B.C. - Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Dogs head on the road for three, "Road Trip Diary" back again, $7 a ticket Tuesday, Marlon Sabo article in BCHL Magazine, Alberni Wrestling hosts Invational this weekend!

2012-02-01T00:43:00.000-08:00

The Dogs are on the bus today as they make their way to the Kootenays to face the Smokies in Trail tomorrow before heading to the Okanagan to face Westside Friday and Vernon on Saturday.

I will be bringing back the "Road Trip Diary" on the blog again to keep you all up to date. For those that didn't follow the team last year or years previous, it's pretty simple - I update throughout the day/night etc where we are and what we are doing. I did the same thing last year on the longer roadies and got some great feedback from the families and fans so I will do it again even though I fear my phone bill already!

The Dogs will head back home Sunday, and host Cowichan Tuesday and the Dogs are doing their best to pack the shack with $7.00 TICKETS! Read more...

We are rolling back the price!

PRESS RELEASE
January 30, 2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Port Alberni, BC – We are rolling back the prices on the 7th of February when your Alberni Valley Bulldogs host the island rival Cowichan Valley Capitals! All ticket prices, Senior, Adult, and Students will be just $7.00!

“Come out and enjoy a night of great entertainment and great Jr. A Hockey action,” said director of sales and marketing Laurie Smilie. “The Bulldogs have been playing with a lot of energy as of late and this is a game that is sure not to disappoint.”

Game tickets can be purchased in person at the Alberni Valley Bulldogs office located at 3737 Roger Street or by phone at 250-723-4412 Tuesday to Friday between 10am and 4pm.

Game time happens to also be at 7pm.

For more information contact Director of Marketing and Public Relations Laurie Smillie
at 250-723-4412, 250-735-3647 or lsmillie@albernivalleybulldogs.ca.

Very cool story here from the Bulldogs on Facebook regarding Marlon Sabo being featured in the latest issue of the BCHL's "Smart Hockey" magazine in their "Academic All-Stars" edition. Check out Page 14 online by CLICKING HERE

That's it for now, off to the bus tomorrow AM with plenty of updates throughout the day from the road!

One of the problems with the Alberni Invitational being hosted in the Alberni Valley Multiplex is that more often than not the Bulldogs are a long ways away on the road as the building is unavailable, and as such I can't catch all the action and I have to miss the spectacle, just like this year.

In my 9 years in Port Alberni I have been able to see the Invitational ONCE as a couple of years ago the Bulldogs were on the road but just on the Island. I was blown away with the set up, the organization, and last but not least the quality of wrestling. I even had the opportunity to call the finals on SHAW TV with Charles Mealey and Ryan Dvorak, which was a very cool experience. Sadly I won't be able to see it this year. I urge you to get down to the Multiplex and check this great event out if you haven't before! It is something else!

PRESS RELEASE

ALBERNI INVITATIONAL WRESTLING TOURNAMENT

GEARS UP FOR FEBRUARY 2-4, 2012

The 29^th Annual Alberni Invitational Wrestling Tournament is scheduled for the Alberni Valley Multiplex February 2-4, 2012. The Invitational will bring over 600 competitors from all over B.C. to the Valley for three days of intense wrestling action in five different age groups plus another 200 in categories such as the Open, Elementary and a new Grappling division. .

The Alberni Invitational is widely considered the most prestigious high school wrestling tournament in B.C. and has received recognition across Canada. The tournament begins on Thursday, February 2^nd with weigh-ins for boys and girls in the secondary aged divisions at 6:00 p.m. at Glenwood.

The Alberni Invitational tournament action will run all day on Friday, February 3^rd from 9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Alberni Valley Multiplex. This year the Friday will be divided into age group sessions. The Cadet (grade 9-10) and Juvenile (grade 11-12) will run Friday morning from 9 am to noon.. There will be a short lunch break before they run the Elementary (grades 3-5) and School Age (grades 6-8) divisions from 12:30 to 3:30 pm. The Cadet and Juvenile divisions run again from 3:30 – 5:30 pm before a short dinner break. School Age, Cadet and Juvenile start up again at 6 pm along with the Open division.

Friday night at 7:00 p.m. will feature the ever-popular semi-finals. Friday night will also feature the Open division where alumni and college wrestlers can test their skills. The conclusion of the rest of the preliminary matches in the age class divisions will begin Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. Medal matches will start at about 10:00 a.m. Saturday morning. The finals in the Schoolboy/girl division (grade 6-8) and Cadet (gr 9-10) will start at noon on Saturday. The Juvenile (grade 11-12) finals start at 2:30 pm on Saturday and wrap up by 3:30 p.m. There is not cost for spectators for the preliminaries and the finals are by donation.

Returning to this year’s Invitational will be the Grappling division that will run on Saturday. Grappling is another variation of wrestling that is now sanctioned by the Canadian Amateur Wrestling Association. It combines many of the techniques and actions of wrestling with various martial arts disciplines. Alberni Wrestling has partnered with Dragon Martial Arts once again offer this dimension to the Alberni Invitational this year..

Registrations for grappling are open to all interested participants of all ages. Registration and weigh-in for grappling will take place Thursday night at Glenwood or Friday night at the Multiplex at 7:30 pm with grappling action starting soon after 9 am Saturday morning. There will be a grappling official’s clinic Friday evening at 7:30 am and an athlete’s rules clinic at 8:30 am Saturday. Make sure you come out to watch this exciting new action.

Not only do local fans have an opportunity for some great competition at the Invitational, you also will once again see very competitive Alberni wrestlers. The ADSS Boys team is currently ranked #6 in the province and will likely battle it out with over 60 other schools for the team title in the Juvenile and Cadet divisions. These teams include #1 ranked Burnaby Central and # 2 ranked Guildford Park of Surrey and other top teams such as Abby Traditional, John Oliver, Burnaby South and WJ Mouat Secondary of Abbotsford.

In the Juvenile Girls division ADSS is ranked # 2 or 3 in BC with Carson Graham of North Vancouver #1. Yale and Terry Fox round out the top 4 girl’s teams. In the Schoolboy/girl division Alberni will have strong teams from Neill and Dunn Middle Schools and both schools should be in the top 10. Ucluelet Secondary will also have wrestlers in most age divisions.

The AV Times will feature pictures and write ups next week on all the top local wrestlers to watch at the 2012 Invitational. It will be an exciting few days of wrestling action in the place many observers call

“The Wrestling Capital of Canada – Port Alberni! “

For more information contact Tournament Director TOM McEVAY--- Phone home:724-0577 or work: 723-3744; email tmcevay@sd70.bc.ca

Hammer

Kings 4 Dogs 3 Double OT

2012-01-29T21:39:00.000-08:00

Another tight game between the top team in the Coast and the bottom team Sunday in Powell River, with the Kings winning it on a Cohen Adair penalty shot.

Read my full recap from the Dogs site HERE

Off the bus, and now off to bed, the 5am wake up tomorrow for the 93.3 The Peak FM Morning Show comes early!

Hammer

Line Up

2012-01-29T14:00:00.000-08:00

Kings 5 Dogs 4, rematch this afternoon at 1:30

2012-01-29T00:39:00.000-08:00

A gutsy effort for the Dogs, almost digging out of a 5-2 hole after 40 minutes only to lose 5-4 to the top team in the Coastal Conference.

It was 1-0 Dogs early when Lars Hepso converted a breakaway on a nice pass from Chase Van Allen, but the Kings got it back on a Cohen Adair goal just past the midway mark of the period, a goal that the Dogs argued shouldn't have counted as their net was dislodged. It was 2-1 Kings after two when J.P. Villeneuve was left all alone in front.

The Dogs started the second period very flat with the Kings getting the better of the chances with the Dogs on the power play. A Kings power play made it 3-1 minutes later on an Evan Richardson goal, followed by a Daniel Schuler marker on a very pretty power play set up late in the frame. The Dogs appeared to have life when Hepso scored his second of the game after a Brandon Adams drive to the slot 1:14 later on the power play to make it 4-2, but a bad giveaway just half a minute later made it 5-2 Kings after two on Villeneuve's second of the game on a slap shot from the high slot.

The Dogs started the third much better than the second as Ryan Lough picked off a pass at the Kings line and raced in on a breakaway to make it 5-3. It was 5-4 with seven minutes gone in the period when the same line struck again as Hepso fed Adams down the left wing on a 2 on 1 that he ripped off the post and in to make it a one-goal game.

That's as close as the Dogs would come though, with the best chance the rest of the way again coming from the trio of Adams, Hepso, and Lough as they hemmed the Kings in their zone before Hepso was found all alone in the slot where he rang a shot off the post.

Shots favoured the Kings 35-19 with Sean Maguire and Max Fenkell being the goalies of record. The Kings went 2 for 6 on the power play while the Dogs went 1 for 5.

Three Stars:
3) Hepso
2) Waugh
1) Villeneuve

The two teams go back at it today with the pregame show kicking off at 1:15 and the play-by-play to follow at 1:30.

For now, time to hit the hay.

Hammer

Dogs Line Up

2012-01-28T19:18:00.000-08:00

Dogs Line Up

2012-01-28T19:13:00.001-08:00

Kings Line Up

2012-01-28T19:13:00.000-08:00

Dogs head to Powell River for two, Alumni Interviews - Stewart and Reppucci, Dave Campbell blog, Black Sheep Tournament, Variety Raffle...

2012-01-28T01:07:00.000-08:00

The Dogs are back at it tonight as they visit the Kings in Powell River for a double header. Catch the pregame show on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak at 7:15 with the puck drop at 7:30.

Check out my "Weekly Preview" article from the Dogs site by clicking HERE

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is former Bulldog Brian Stewart, don't miss it! Jeff Reppucci is the 2nd Intermission guest tomorrow afternoon!

Get a very cool behind the scenes look on how things go with the Bulldogs with Trainer Dave "Soupy" Campbell's blog here - Alberni Valley Bulldogs 24/7

The Black Sheep Rugby Club are also in action today....

Cowichan and Nanaimo will be coming up to our facilities this weekend to participate in an exhibition tournament this Saturday. It appears that the weather will be more co-operative this time. The start times are listed below.

NOON PABS VS. NANAIMO

1:00 PM PABS VS. COWICHAN

2:00 PM NANAIMO VS. COWICHAN

Please help advertise and spread the word:

Angel has a busy week of fundraising ahead as she works on raising the final $900 of her $100K fundraising goal for Variety's Kids. You can find her selling raffle tickets at Buy Low Foods this Friday and Saturday, 2 -5pm. Stop by her Variety table to say hello and buy a $2 ticket on Angel's Raffle for Variety's Kids.

sincerely, Cheryl Magnussen on behalf of Angel

Angel's Raffle for Variety's Kids

Tickets Available at: The Flooring Depot, Castle One Carpets (Parksville), Trends Design Team, Alberni Valley News, Alberni Valley Bulldogs office, Alberni Valley Times, and Taylors Flowers

Prizes are as follows:

FIRST PRIZE - Autographed (Alberni Valley Bulldog Alumni) #29 Harry Zolnierczyk Philladelphia Flyers Jersey
SECOND PRIZE - 5 x 8 Area Carpet donated by The Flooring Depot - retail value $562.00
THIRD and FOURTH PRIZE- certificate for 1 nights accommodation for 2 at the Sandman Hot...el Downtown Vancouver (valid now until April 30th and October 1st til December 30th 2012) -donated by the Sandman Hotel Downtown Vancouver

Ticket Price -$2 each

2000 tickets will be sold with all proceeds going to Variety the children's charity of BC

Draw date is February 11th, 2012, 9pm at the Alberni Valley Multiplex

Hammer

Best Western Barclay Hotel Pee Wee "A" Bulldogs Island Champs...

2012-01-26T13:30:00.000-08:00

In case you missed the news from earlier this week - a HUGE CONGRATS to the Pee Wee "A" Bulldogs, following up the Midget Bulldogs from the weekend before. Pretty good Minor Hockey here in the Valley, wouldn't you say? Thanks as well to Stef for the great update.

Hammer

The Best Western Barclay Hotel Peewee A Bulldogs are the 2011 – 2012 Island League Division 2 Champions. The Peewee Bulldogs posted a strong 9 and 1 record in league play which began in late October and wrapped up this past weekend.

To start the season Alberni posted 7 – 6 and 4 -3 victories over Powell River followed by 2 – 0 and 12 – 0 decisions against south island opponents the Victoria Icehawks and Peninsula Eagles. Alberni claimed a 5^th straight win, 7 – 1 over Oceanside, before taking their only loss in league play, a tight 2 – 1 game against Kerry Park.

The month of January saw the Peewee A team round out their 10 game league schedule with 4 more wins, posting a 4 - 2 victory over Victoria, an 8 – 6 decision against Kerry Park and wins this past weekend, 2- 1 on Saturday versus the Generals A team in Oceanside and 5 – 2 at home over the visiting Peninsula Eagles on Sunday.

The Peewee A Bulldogs would like to thank their sponsors, The Best Western Barclay Hotel, GDM Boom and Sort and Smittys Restaurant for their ongoing support this season. The team will now step into the hunt for a berth at the 2012 provincial championships. Alberni’s playoff quest begins in Oceanside on Feb 5^th and the team will see their next home action at the Multiplex at 1230pm on Sunday February 12^th when they take on the Campbell River Tyees.

Photo credit: Anna Jack

In the photo – left to right

Kneeling Tanner Doucette, Jaysen MacLean

Front Row Colton Lloyd, Nico Somerville, Tynan Smyth, Wyatt Selva, Nick Sexton

2^nd Row Austin Marling, Shay-lee McConnell, Matthew Netzer, Noah Fatur, Jayden Moss, Brennan Locke, Foster Martin, Ezra Paddock, Ayden Brossoit, Coach Greg Smyth

Back Row Coach Dan Sexton, Ethan Jack, Connor Sabiston, Coach Dave McConnell

Thanks to Dennis Jonsson Motor Products!

2012-01-23T14:59:00.000-08:00

Behold the Orlando, my new ride for the next couple of days courtesy the fine folks at Dennis Jonsson Motor Products!

As soon as my little guy wakes up from his nap we will be out and about on the streets and highways testing it out, so I can give a full report on the vehicle tomorrow on my 93.3 The Peak FM Morning Show just after 7:30am! Be sure to tune in!

Thanks again to Dennis Jonsson GM, pretty cool!

Hammer

Eagles 6 Dogs 3

2012-01-21T22:45:00.000-08:00

A great effort but a bad result tonight at the Pound as the Dogs fell 6-3 to the Eagles. While the Dogs out shot Surrey 54-28 they struggled to bury their chances while the Eagles seemed to capitalize on ever chance the Dogs gave up. A disallowed goal that would have made it 4-3 in the third ended any Dogs comeback hopes.

Read all about it in detail through my "Weekly Recap" article on the Dogs website HERE

Hammer

Dogs host Eagles, Mark MacMillan interview, Variety game night...

2012-01-21T12:08:00.000-08:00

How about this great picture of last night's thrilling finish! Great shot

The Dogs are back at it again on home ice tonight as they finish a four-game home stand with the Surrey Eagles making their first visit to the Dog Pound this season after the last visit was postponed due to inclement weather. The Eagles will be trying to bounce back from a 3-2 overtime loss in Nanaimo last night while the Dogs will be trying to win two in a row for the first time since they won five straight to end October and begin November.

Catch the pregame show on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM at 6:45 with the puck drop at 7:00.

Tonight's 1st Intermission guest is Dogs D-man Walker Hyland while former Bulldog and current UND Fighting Sioux and Montreal Canadiens draft pick Mark MacMillan will join me in the 2nd Intermission show.

The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are teaming up with Angel and hosting a Variety Game Night on Saturday January 21st.

Stop by the Variety table on your way into the game and purchase a puck for the first intermission puck toss. First prize is a Pink Alberni Valley Bulldogs Jersey and Second Prize is a Family Game Night Package. Pucks are $2 a piece or three for $5.

Angel will also be at the Variety Table during the first and second intermissions awaiting your visit in hopes that you will purchase a Star Wars Variety Gold Heart Pin for $3 or purchase a $2 ticket on Angel's Raffle for Variety's Kids.
Raffle Prizes are as follows:
first prize - Autographed (Alberni Valley Bulldog Alumni) #29 Harry Zolnierczyk Philladelphia Flyers Jersey
second prize - 5 x 8 Area Carpet donated by The Flooring Depot - retail value $562.00
third prize and fourth prize - certificate for 1 nights accommodation for 2 at the Sandman Hotel Downtown Vancouver ( valid now - April 30th, 2012 and October 1st - December 30th, 2012 ) -donated by the Sandman Hotel Downtown Vancouver

Raffle draw date: 11 Feb 2012

With your help this is the year that Angel will meet her goal of raising $100K for Variety's Kids. At last count she was only a few thousand short of this goal.

Sincerely, Cheryl Magnusssen on behalf of Angel.

Hammer

Fantastic finish, Dogs 3 Cents 2 UPDATE - VIDEO of winner....

2012-01-20T21:32:00.000-08:00

What a finish at the Dog Pound Friday night!

The Dogs led 1-0 after one on a Turner Popoff power play goal, and 2-0 after two on a Trent Dorais marker.

The Cents came out with a great third period, making it 2-1 on a pretty goal by Evan Stack in-alone with just over six minutes gone in the third. They would get the equalizer on another pretty play by Stack as he drove the net with speed on the power play and tucked in his own rebound to tie it up with 6:49 to play.

The Dogs then took a late penalty to put the Cents on the power play with 2:15 to play in the third but killed off a late penalty with several big shot blocks and a couple big saves by Cameron Large. As the penalty was ending a shot block in the slot saw the Dogs get the puck and then race up ice and net the winner in highlight reel fashion when Ryan Lough slipped a check with a pretty move before getting a pass over on a second effort to Walker Hyland, who scored the winner coming out of the penalty box and finding the back of the net for a 3-2 Dogs lead with 3.2 seconds left on the clock.

Special thanks to Bulldogs Assistant Coach Adam Hayduk for getting the video up so fast, the fans certainly appreciate it and I certainly do as well!

In all the Bulldogs games I have called, I can't remember the team ever netting a winner so late in regulation. It was nice to see and hear the Pound erupt like that. As Bruce MacDonald said, it seemed like the good ole' days, and the boys needed it, the town needed it, and the Pound needed it. Well said and great effort and an amazing ending.

Shots favoured Merritt 40-35 with both teams going 1 for 4 on the power play.

Three Stars:

3) Lino Chimienti

2) Evan Stack

1) Cameron Large

Next up, the Surrey Eagles tomorrow.

Hammer

Dogs host Cents, Dorais to SAIT, BIG changes to BCHL, Variety Game Night vs Eagles tomorrow

2012-01-20T07:46:00.000-08:00

The Bulldogs are back on home ice tonight as they host the streaking Merritt Centennials. Get it all on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak with the pregame show at 6:45 and the play-by-play to follow at 7:00 on 93.3 The Peak FM

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is former Bulldog Johnny Rogic, now at RPI. Mark MacMillan will join me in the 2nd Intermission tomorrow.

Still remember that blazing Rogic speed, as displayed on this OT winner....

Huge congrats to Trent Dorais who is off to SAIT next season!

PRESS RELEASE
January 19, 2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are very proud to announce that 91 F and team captain Trent Dorais has committed to a hockey scholarship at Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. The SAIT Trojans play in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference.

SAIT, located in Calgary, Alberta, is one of Canada’s leading polytechnics. SAIT provides relevant, skill oriented education to more than 71,000 registrants each year. The Trojans play in The Trojans Arena at SAIT
that features an NHL-size surface. “We are very excited for Trent,” said Alberni Valley Bulldogs’ Head Coach Kevin Willison. “Trent has been working very hard this season both on and off the ice so that he could reach the goals he set for himself. For the short time that I’ve known him, Trent has displayed character and strong leadership abilities making him a great fit for the SAIT Trojans hockey progarm.” Dorais will be joinging fellow Alberni Valley Bulldogs alumni Sam Mitchell (2008-2011) at SAIT for the 2012/13 season.

“We are very excited that Trent has committed to a hockey scholarship at SAIT,” said SAIT Men’s Hockey Coach Ken Babey. “He is a very good player with strong leadership skills, physical play, speed and work ethic,” added Babey. “These attributes will fit nicely into our team’s style of play. We expect Trent to have a positive impact on our team.”

“I’m very excited for the opportunity to play next season for such a well respected hockey program,” said Trent Dorais. “I look forward to reunite with my old teammate and line mate Sam Mitchell. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my coaches, the entire Alberni Valley Bulldogs organization, Tom McEvay,
my billet parents Wade and Tammi Nicklin, and everyone in the community for helping me reach my goals.”

The Alberni Valley Bulldogs would like to congratulate Trent for achieving his goal of earning a hockey scholarship. He will be missed in the Alberni Valley but we know he will have continued success with his future endeavors.

For more information please contact Assistant Coach Adam Hayduk at
250.723.4412 or adam@albernivalleybulldogs.ca.

Some interesting decisions came out out of the Governors meetings...read more below.

January 19, 2012
For immediate release:

The British Columbia Hockey League passed a number of significant motions Thursday at the league’s semi-annual governors meeting in Richmond. The changes will take effect in the 2012-13 season.

To allow more fans to attend games, governors voted to lower the number of regular season games from 60 to 56. This will decrease the number of mid-week games when fans are less able to attend. Now, a greater percentage of home dates can be held on the prime nights of Friday and Saturday.

Also, a showcase event will be held Sept. 7 to 9 at a site yet to be determined. The showcase is similar to events held in the Alberta and Saskatchewan Junior Hockey leagues where college and professional scouts are invited. Showcase results will count in the regular season standings. Each BCHL team will play two games at the event meaning all teams, except the host of the showcase, will then have 27 home dates in the 2012-13 season. Any revenues from the showcase will be split up amongst the league’s 16 clubs. Teams are being asked to submit by Feb. 1 their bids to host the event.

Another motion that passed was the decision to move the start of the regular season to Sept. 14, 2012. This will mark the date that the standard BCHL regular-season format shall commence though by that point, two regular season games will have been played at the showcase event by each team.

The season will end March 10, 2013 which means the coming season is two weeks longer than normal. This also will allow more games to be scheduled on prime nights rather than mid week.

With respect to the alignment of the conferences, there will be now be 10 teams in the Coastal Conference and it will be split into two groups called the Island Division and Mainland Division. The Island Division will include Victoria, Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo, Alberni Valley and Powell River. The Mainland Division will include Coquitlam, Surrey, Langley, Chilliwack and Prince George.

Prince George will be given the option to return to the Interior Conference after the conclusion of the 2013 playoffs. With Prince George and Chilliwack set to join the Coastal Conference, the new Interior Conference will include the remaining teams: Merritt, Trail, Penticton, Vernon, Salmon Arm and Westside.

“These decisions were not made in haste and came only after lengthy debate by our governors,” said BCHL commissioner John Grisdale. “The BCHL considers itself an innovator and model for Junior A hockey in Canada and these decisions, not all of them unanimous, have been made with the intention of ensuring the long-term viability of our league.”

Each club has been asked to submit new playoff format ideas to the BCHL office by Feb. 1, 2012. After that, a decision will be made and announced.

Brent Mutis
Communications director
British Columbia Hockey League

Help Angel raise much needed funds for Variety AND win some great stuff while you are at it tomorrow night!

The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are teaming up with Angel and hosting a Variety Game Night on Saturday January 21st.

first prize - Autographed (Alberni Valley Bulldog Alumni) #29 Harry Zolnierczyk Philladelphia Flyers Jersey
second prize - 5 x 8 Area Carpet donated by The Flooring Depot - retail value $562.00
third prize and fourth prize - certificate for 1 nights accommodation for 2 at the Sandman Hotel Downtown Vancouver ( valid now - April 30th, 2012 and October 1st - December 30th, 2012 ) -donated by the Sandman Hotel Downtown Vancouver

Raffle draw date: 11 Feb 2012

With your help this is the year that Angel will meet her goal of raising $100K for Variety's Kids. At last count she was only a few thousand short of this goal.

Sincerely, Cheryl Magnusssen on behalf of Angel.

Bulldog Alumni Interviews - Slubowski, Hatch, Dziurzynski, Kremyr Smeltzer...

2012-01-18T08:59:00.000-08:00

By popular demand, here's some recent interviews with former Bulldogs for your enjoyment.

Remember, all audio is courtesy and copyright 93.3 The Peak FM and the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group, LP.

David Dziurzynski Interview by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Matt Hatch Interview by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Jordan Kremyr Interview by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Isaac Smeltzer Interview by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Frank Slubowski Interview by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Slubowski wins CCHA Rookie of the Week

2012-01-17T11:35:00.001-08:00

http://www.wmubroncos.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=4600&ATCLID=205362657

Sent from my iPhone

Midget Dogs clinch Island Banner in thrilling fashion

2012-01-15T19:19:00.000-08:00

Huge congrats to the Van Isle Ford Midget Rep Bulldogs, who clinched the Island Banner tonight with a thrilling 3-2 come-from-behind win over Cowichan Valey, erasing a 2-0 deficit with three unanswered goals late!

Way to go boys!

Sent from my iPhone

Kings 7 Dogs 0, Midget Dogs host Cowichan tonight at 5pm

2012-01-15T00:53:00.000-08:00

A tough night at the Dog Pound as the Kings scored five in the second period to blow the game open. Check out my "Weekly Recap" for more HERE

Please get out to the rink tomorrow night if you are able to as the Van Isle Ford Midget Bulldogs are hosting Cowichan Valley at 5pm. There is nothing on the line besides a BANNER.

If you missed what's up earlier, read below.

Hello Peak staff:

Back in October the AVMHA Midget Bulldogs hockey team achieved a major goal by qualifying to play in Division 1 of the Vancouver Island Hockey League. They have led the division all season and are now poised to make history by winning it, which is a huge achievement for a team from a small town. The Midget Bulldogs are in control of their destiny this Sunday, as they will face off against Cowichan Valley  - the only team with a mathematical chance of catching up to them to win the banner.

We would appreciate your assistance in inviting all Alberni Valley hockey fans to come out and support our team for this crucial game.  It will be at the Alberni Valley Multiplex starting at 5 PM on Sunday January 15th.

Admission is free.

Thank you

Dogs 6 Grizzlies 3, Dogs host Kings tonight, David Dziurzynski interview

2012-01-13T21:19:00.000-08:00

The new look Bulldogs topped the almost totally different look Victoria Grizzlies 6-3 last night at the Dog Pound to pass the Langley Rivermen for 7th in the Coastal Conference in a game that saw both teams ice three lines coming off Tuesday's Trade Deadline.

Max Fenkell was great all night and big early in the game when the Grizz had the best of the early chances while shorthanded, most notably a Coltyn Hansen breakaway off an intercepted a D to D pass that Fenkell turned away. The Dogs drew first blood when Brandon Adams kept the puck on a 3 on 1 down the right wing and snapped one high short-side. A skirmish after the goal saw the Dogs go to the power play where they connected to make it 2-0 when Hunter Stewart scored in his Dogs debut by deflecting a point shot over Garrett Rockafellow. Exactly one minute later Arty Kalashnikov potted a rebound created when Evan Tironese walked to the slot for a 3-0 Dogs lead after one.

The lead was built to 4-0 on another deflection when Ryan Lough tipped an Evan Tironese point shot top corner from the doorstep eight minutes into the second. The Grizz got on the board to make it a 4-1 game after two periods when they connected on the power play when Alex Holland went top corner, far side from the slot on a Hansen set up on the power play.

Victoria struck again to make it a two goal game just short of five minutes into the third when Max Fenkell came up with the initial save on a 2 on 1 rush, only to be beaten anyway when Michael Sandor showed great hand-eye coordination by batting the rebound out of the air to make it 4-2. The Dogs would answer back in short order to retake the three goal lead though as Trent Dorais drove the puck in on a wrap around from down low less than two minutes later. It was a 6-2 Dogs lead less than a minute later as Hunter Stewart stole the puck behind the net with a great second effort and found Arty Kalashnikov in who one-timed it home for his second of the game. The only goal the rest of the way came on a pretty power play set up by the Grizzlies on a 5 on 3 when Chase Kaiser drilled a cross-ice one timer home to make it 6-3 with just over five to play.

The Dogs out shot the Grizz 38-35 and went 1 for 3 on the power play while the Grizzlies went 2 for 5.

Three Stars:

3) Ryan Lough

2) Arty Kalashnikov

1) Hunter Stewart

The Dogs are right back at it tonight as they play game two of a four game home stand with Powell River paying the Dogs a visit. Catch all the action on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak with the pregame show at 6:45 and the puck drop at 7:00

Former Bulldog David Dziurzynski, now with the AHL's Binghampton Senators will be my 2nd Intermission guest, don't miss it.

Hammer

Dogs host Grizz tonight, Hunter Stewart makes debut, Josh Bonar interview, Midget Dogs home Sunday for 1st

2012-01-13T13:28:00.000-08:00

The Dogs are back on home ice tonight as they host the Victoria Grizzlies at the Dog Pound, the first time Victoria has paid a visit since September. Catch the pregame show on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM at 6:45 with the play-by-play to follow at 7:pm.

Ace is off catching some sun rays on sandy beaches, so Alberni Golf Club Head Pro Bruce MacDonald will join me back in the booth once again to provide colour commentary and analysis. I'm jealous of Ace, and very happy to have Bruce back! And by the way, once again a special thanks to Bulldogs Public Address Announcer Charles Mealey for joining me in Duncan on Wednesday night! Charles does a great job, and I received lots of positive feedback. It is always nice to not call a game solo just to be able to have someone else to talk for a spell, to offer a different opinion and view on the game, or just to be a backboard to bounce things off of so I'm not just talking to myself...or just all the listeners - is how I try to think about it when I am a one man show.

New Bulldog Hunter Stewart will make his Bulldog and Dog Pound debut, and also his radio debut as he will be my 1st Intermission guest. Hunter will wear number 18. I told him it is a jersey that is very familiar to the locals. For the new Bulldog fans - it was once worn by former Bulldog Captain and then Brown University Bear Captain Devin Timberlake.

Congrats to three Bulldog prospects who will play in the BCMML All Star game tonight! Read more HERE

Speaking of locals, Josh Bonar joins me in the 2nd Intermission, all the way from Hungary where he plays for the Miskolci Jegesmedvek Ice Bears.

Best of luck to the Van Isle Ford Midget Bulldogs, doing my best to get a big crowd out for them on Sunday night! Here's the email we at got at 93.3 The Peak from Simon Read. We have been pumping this up since Monday - please help share the word and get out Sunday night if you can!

Hello Peak staff:

Back in October the AVMHA Midget Bulldogs hockey team achieved a major goal
by qualifying to play in Division 1 of the Vancouver Island Hockey League.
They have led the division all season and are now poised to make history by
winning it, which is a huge achievement for a team from a small town.  The
Midget Bulldogs are in control of their destiny this Sunday, as they will
face off against Cowichan Valley  - the only team with a mathematical chance
of catching up to them to win the banner.

We would appreciate your assistance in inviting all Alberni Valley hockey
fans to come out and support our team for this crucial game.  It will be at
the Alberni Valley Multiplex starting at 5 PM on Sunday January 15th.
Admission is free.

Thank you

More later!

Hammer

Caps 5 Dogs 2

2012-01-12T01:14:00.000-08:00

A late start due to Zamboni issues equalled a bad start for the Dogs as the Caps came out flying taking a 3-0 lead three minutes into the game on goals by Troy Paterson in the first minute, Vinny Muto two and a half minutes in and then Brett Knowles on the power play less than a minute later. The Caps continued to dominate to build the lead to 4-0 on an Iacobellis goal just short of nine minutes in, followed by a Matt Brown tally less than two minutes later to make it 5-0.

You wouldn't have believed it at the time but that would be it for the Caps offence on the game as they didn't find the net again while they certainly had their chances and several near misses.

The Dogs deserve credit for taking it in the chin BIG TIME but simply not quitting and just continuing to plug away no matter what. While the Caps no doubt took their foot off the gas with the big lead, they by no means quit. While the Dogs won the final 50 minutes they lost the first 10 badly enough that they couldn't dig out of the hole as Turner Popoff (with the first of his career) and Lars Hepso scored power play goals in the second and third to account for all the offense and the 5-2 final score.

Off to bed for a short nap and the 93.3 The Peak FM Morning Show at 6am tomorow!

Hammer

Dogs @ Caps

2012-01-11T20:35:00.001-08:00

Also Steen Cooper gets his Team BC 16 ring from Adam Hayduk

Late start...Zamboni Issues...

2012-01-11T18:44:00.000-08:00

MacMillan bros together again at UND, Midget Dogs top Island, full list BCHL transactions...

2012-01-11T14:06:00.000-08:00

I'm now able to officially announce that Mitch MacMillan will be joining younger brother Mark at the University of North Dakota to suit up for the Sioux after leaving St. Cloud State last month. Mitch is at UND right now and can do everything with the team except play until December 2012.

Here's just a small example of what the brothers did in Bulldog sweaters...if they can duplicate the same at UND fans of the Sioux will be in for a treat.

MIDGET BULLDOGS STILL ON TOP

The Van Isle Ford Midget Bulldogs collected 3 out of 4 points on the road
last weekend to maintain their position on top of Division 1 of the Island
League.  On Saturday they held off a late surge to tie Peninsula Eagles 2-2
and on Sunday battled to a gritty 3-2 win over Juan De Fuca Grizzlies.

On January 7 at Panorama Arena the game went end to end with no clear
advantage through the first period until Greg Tuckerman used his long reach
to wrist one past the Eagle goalie with 46 seconds on the clock.  Tyler
Wilhelm and Brett Williscroft assisted.  Early in the second period Nathan
Read out-muscled the defence in front of the net and snapped in a loose puck
for a two goal lead.   Peninsula continued to press and was able to tie the
game early in the third period.

The next day at Bear Mountain both teams came out hard.  The Grizzlies
claimed the first goal at 12:06.  The Bulldogs evened it up a minute later
when Corey Beecroft wristed a shot from the right point that found the mark.
Spencer Pierce and Brandon Antonichuk assisted.  Much of the second period
was played in the Alberni zone, and at 2:51 Juan de Fuca went up 2-1.  The
Bulldogs took over in the third period.  At 16:48 Beecroft lobbed a puck
high towards the net and as the goalie turned the wrong way Cameron MacAdams
seized the moment to put the puck behind him.  Chase Gaudreault also
assisted.  Then at 11:22 it was MacAdams from Beecroft again for the game
winner.  Alberni controlled the play for the remainder of the game to secure
the win.   Coach Brent Demerais said "It was good to see the hard work along
the boards on Sunday.  Being physical helped. The other team kept coughing
up the puck."

With two games left in the regular season Alberni Valley leads the league
with 17 points (8 wins, 1 loss and 1 tie).  This is a remarkable achievement
for a team from a small association.  The Midget Bulldog's impressive
performance is not going unnoticed.  Coach Brent Demerais noted the presence
of several WHL scouts at the weekend games and said they have been talking
to him about several players from the team.

Mathematically there is only one other team left with a chance to take the
Division 1 banner.  That team is Cowichan Valley which is 5 points back with
three games to go.  The Bulldogs only need one win to clinch the banner.  

That win could come at their next home game of the season next Sunday,
January 15th when they host Cowichan Valley.  Game time is 5:00 PM at the
Multiplex.  Let's get lots of fans out and make some noise for our Alberni
boys.  Admission is free.

A full list of the transactions yesterday can be found on the BCHL site HERE

Man I gotta go I have a bus to catch!

Hammer

Dogs visit Capitals tonight, Matt Hatch Interview tonight

2012-01-11T09:03:00.000-08:00

The Bulldogs are back in action tonight as they visit the Capitals in Duncan for the fourth time already this season. Catch all the action on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM with the pregame show at 6:45 and the play-by-play to follow from the "Big Stick" at 7:00.

I will have some assistance in the booth - or "landing" as we call it in Duncan - as Bulldogs Public Address Announcer Charles Mealey will make the trip down to provide Colour Commentary and Analysis.

For more details on tonight's game and the games Friday and Saturday, check out my "Weekly Preview" article on the Bulldogs website by CLICKING HERE

For those that missed Kevin Willison and Adam Hayduk on The Peak Morning Show today regarding the trade deadline - I will replay it tonight during the 1st Intermission show.

In the 2nd Intermission show, more Bulldog Alumni, as Matt Hatch will be my guest!

That's it for now, more later!

Hammer

Dogs flip Odenaal, add Hunter Stewart, done dealing now, Kevin Willison and Adam Hadyuk on 93.3 The Peak FM 8:10 tomorrow...

2012-01-10T23:08:00.000-08:00

Just got word from the Bulldogs that they made one more move and that they are now officially finished dealing in advance of the Trade Deadline.

The Bulldogs have flipped Kirsten Odendaal, acquired along with future consideration in the Dylan Nowakowski trade with the Brooks Bandits, to the AJHL's Olds Grizzlys in exchange for '93 born F Hunter Stewart

Bulldogs Coach Kevin Willison is familiar with Stewart, coaching him not only with Olds but with the Edge Academy as well. Welcome to the team Hunter!

Catch Bulldogs Head Coach Kevin Willison and Assistant Coach Adam Hayduk on 93.3 The Peak FM tomorrow morning just after 8:10 am as they will join me to talk about the moves.

Hammer

Bulldogs move Puddifant

2012-01-10T21:08:00.000-08:00

From the BCHL website under transactions, the Bulldogs have moved 20 year old Mike Puddifant to the Fort McMurray Oil Barons of the AJHL for future considerations.

A Press Release from the Bulldogs is forthcoming.UPDATE - here's the Bulldogs Press Release

All the best to Mike, and thanks for your efforts in a Dogs uni!

Hammer

Dogs move Nowakowski, add Odendaal

2012-01-09T13:55:00.001-08:00

Just got this from the Bulldogs...sad to see Dylan go, best of luck! At the same time welcome to the town and team Kirsten!

Hammer

Alberni Valley Bulldogs would like to announce the team has acquired the playing rights of 93 D Kirsten Odendaal along with future considerations from the Brooks Bandits of the Alberta Junior Hockey League for 91 F Dylan Nowakowski.

Odendaal is in his second season with the Bandits, and has put up 6 assists in 13 games. Odendaal is a 6'1", 185lbs puck- moving defenseman who originally is from Red Deer, AB.

"We are looking forward to giving Kirsten an opportunity to develop and play in all situations," said Alberni Valley Bulldogs Head Coach Kevin Willison. "Kirsten has the skill to develop into a top-4 defenseman and we look forward to welcoming him to the team."

The same deal has 91 F Dylan Nowakowski going to a 1st place team in the South Division that will be sure to be making a strong playoff run this season.

"I would like to thank the Alberni Valley Bulldogs and the entire community for treating me so well during my time here," said Nowakowski. "It's sad to be leaving a great oganization like the Bulldogs but I'm also excited for the new challenge."

The organzation would like to sincerely thank Dylan for his contributions to the hockey club and to the community. We wish Dylan all the very best in his future endeavours.

For more information please contact Director of Hockey Operations Rick Schievink

Sent from my iPhone

Dogs 3 Rivermen 2 in double OT, ADSS Girls win Totem

2012-01-08T00:57:00.000-08:00

Great finish at the Dog Pound tonight as the Dogs picked up their first sudden victory of the season in double OT for a 3-2 win over the Rivermen.

Check out my recap of tonight's game by reading my "Weekly Recap" from the Dogs site here

Also huge congrats to the ADSS Girls who won the Totem with a 75-51 over the Kwalicum Kondors. Way to go!

Hammer

Totem 57

2012-01-07T17:32:00.000-08:00

Dogs drop wild one to Caps, host Langley, Jordan Kremyr chat, Totem 57 concludes tonight...

2012-01-07T09:09:00.000-08:00

Playing at home for the first time in 2012 and for the first time since December 11th, the Bulldogs hosted the Capitals in an entertaining affair last night at the Dog Pound that saw the teams combine for 11 goals in a 7-4 Capitals win, the first for the Conference leading Caps in five tries against the Dogs this season.

The good was that the Bulldogs had scored only four goals in their three previous games combined, while the bad was obviously giving up 7 and too many good chances. Click HERE to to read the box score

No rest for the wicked as the Dogs host the Rivermen tonight for a chance to tie them for 7th in the Conference. Catch the pregame show at 6:45 with Ace and myself on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM with the puck drop at 7:00.

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is former Bulldog Jordan Kremyr, who played with the Dogs from 2004 to 2007 After graduating from Providence last year, Kremyr has made the jump nicely to playing pro with the ECHL's Alaska Aces this season with 6-7-13 in 22 games.

For a refresher of Kremyr's time as a Dog, check out the Bulldog Highlights from 2005-2006 below!

Don't forget that the 57th Totem Tournament concludes today at the Athletic Hall and ADSS - the final Totem at the old ADSS. It was kind of cool that the first thing I saw when I turned on the TV today was an update on Phoenix Sun Steve Nash, who once dominated the Totem as a Victoria High Schooler.

The ADSS Girls won their opener 53-41 over St. Thomas yesterday, while the Boys fell 35-24 to Reynolds.

Here's the schedule today...get out and cheer the teams on!

Saturday, January 7, 2012 (Games at ADSS and Alberni Athletic Hall)

Girls: Athletic Hall 9:30am Belmont vs Saint Thomas Acquinas

Boys: ADSS 10:00am Stelly's vs Alberni

Boys: Athletic Hall 11:15am Reynolds vs Kwalikum

Girls: ADSS 1:00pm Alberni vs Belmont

Girls: Athletic Hall 2:00pm Saint Thomas Acquinas vs Kwalikum

Boys: ADSS 3:30pm Reynolds vs Stelly’s

Boys: ADSS 5:15pm Kwalikum vs Alberni

Girls: ADSS 7:00pm Kwalikum vs Alberni

Dogs host Caps tonight, Zolnierczyk scores again, 57th Totem Tourny this weekend, last chance for Festival of Trees is TODAY

2012-01-06T08:28:00.000-08:00

After five straight on the road the Bulldogs finally get a home game tonight as they host the Cowichan Valley Capitals for the first time this season at the Pound. Catch the pregame show on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM at 6:45 with the puck drop to follow at 7:00

Great to see last night that former Bulldog Harry Zolnierczyk scored and picked up 3rd Star honours for the Flyers in their 5-4 win over the Hawks in Philly!

The 57th - and final - Totem at the old ADSS kicks off today! Here's the schedule for the weekend, hopefully you can get out and check out some of the action!

Friday, January 6, 2012 (All games at ADSS Gym)

Girls: 2:00pm Kwalikum vs Belmont

Boys: 3:45pm Stelly's vs Kwalikum

Girls: 5:30pm Alberni vs Saint Thomas Acquinas

Boys: 7:15pm Alberni vs Reynolds

Saturday, January 7, 2012 (Games at ADSS and Alberni Athletic Hall)

Girls: Athletic Hall 9:30am Belmont vs Saint Thomas Acquinas

Boys: ADSS 10:00am Stelly's vs Alberni

Boys: Athletic Hall 11:15am Reynolds vs Kwalikum

Girls: ADSS 1:00pm Alberni vs Belmont

Girls: Athletic Hall 2:00pm Saint Thomas Acquinas vs Kwalikum

Boys: ADSS 3:30pm Reynolds vs Stelly’s

Boys: ADSS 5:15pm Kwalikum vs Alberni

Girls: ADSS 7:00pm Kwalikum vs Alberni

Don't forget that today is the cut off to get your vote in on the 93.3 The Peak FM/Van Isle Ford "People's Choice" award at the B.C. Children's Hospital "Festival of Trees" at the Best Western Barclay Hotel! Get down there to vote today before 5pm to have a chance to win an Apple IPad2! If you can't make it there in person, vote online HERE

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And one more - please bring some spare change or bills to the rink this weekend and this month!

Please Share:

The Allberni Valley Bulldogs are teaming up to help Angel reach her goal of raising $100K for Variety's Kids. Angel Magnussen will be selling Star Wars Variety Gold Heart Pins and collecting coin donations for Variety's Kids at each Alberni Valley Bulldog home game during the month of January. If you've been saving your coins for Angel to give to Variety on your behalf please bring them to her at the games. And be sure to check out the Star Wars Collector Pins, available for a minimum $3 donation. With your help Angel will be able to reach her goal before this years Show of Hearts Telethon!!!

Team Building in Whister...

2012-01-05T12:46:00.001-08:00

The Dogs made use of an interesting schedule that saw them leave the Island for a one-game roadie, as they are taking their time coming home by heading up to Whistler for some Team Building fun in the form of a Scavenger Hunt.

Express 3 Dogs 1

2012-01-04T22:31:00.001-08:00

It was a great effort from the Dogs tonight but quite simply you won't win too many games scoring just a single goal.

The Dogs came out ready to play, with Dylan Nowakowski and Josh Mitchell each having in-alone chances on the first shift of the game. As the puck went up ice Alex Petan entered the Dogs zone 1 on 3 and took a shot before being leveled with a huge check by Turner Popoff, who would in turn be challenged by Mitch Nardi as the two dropped the gloves.

No initial penalty was forthcoming on the hit but one of the two Linesmen called a 5 minute major for charging as Popoff was kicked out of the game. Petan didn't appear to miss a shift and finished the game - although Eddie Gregory reports on his blog he didn't play in the 2nd or 3rd.

The Express opened the scoring late in the first period to lead 1-0 on a horrible break as a rimmed puck hit a seam on the glass and no one knew where the puck was except Cody Michelle who put it home.

The Express took a 2-0 lead on another tough play in the second period. It may sound like sour grapes, but its just the facts - at least how I see them. Justin Morello was felled by a board/check from behind that injured him and knocked him out of the game. And maybe more games to come. No penalty was called on the play, with the game winning goal coming as play continued with John Siemer one-timing one five-hole on Max Fenkell.

The Dogs answered seconds later to get back into it when Arty Kalashnikov won a draw back to Nick Tupper who put a shot on net from the line that was tipped home by Evan Tironese as Tupper picked up a point in his BCHL debut. Minutes later it looked like the Express had a 3-1 lead when they scored on a scramble, however one of the aforementioned Linesmen reversed the original call from the Referee and saw the goal waved off.

That's as close as the Dogs would get though as the Express held on before hitting the empty net with less than 10 seconds to play despite the Dogs having a 17-4 advantage in shots on the third.

A great effort but once again painfully just short.

Shots 38-29 Dogs. Each team went 0 for 6 on the power play.

Three Stars:
3rd) Georgeson
2nd) Fenkell
1st) Huggins

Special thanks to Express Broadcaster Eddie Gregory for bringing me back a puck from the World Juniors in Edmonton. And while I'm at it another extra special thanks to the Express organization for acting fast and assisting me in dealing with an unruly fan that was half accosting me in the Broadcast Booth during the game. You've done over 1000 games, and you STILL haven't seen it all! Class act by the organization to help me out!

Hammer

Dogs visit Express tonight, add Tupper, Festival of Trees + Winter Wonderland videos, last chance to vote...

2012-01-04T08:01:00.000-08:00

The Dogs open their 2012 portion of their schedule when they head to the Lower Mainland for a one game roadie to face Coquitlam tonight.

For all the details, check out my "Weekly Preview" article from the Dogs website HERE

Catch the pregame show on your radio or computer on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey tonight from Coquitlam at 6:45 with the play-by-play to follow at 7:00 on 93.3 The Peak FM

The Dogs have made a move to strengthen their back end, adding 6'4 D-man Nicholas Tupper. To read more, check out the Press Release from the Dogs website HERE

The B.C Children's Hospital Festival of Trees is winding down at the Best Western Barclay Hotel. Friday at 5pm is the deadline to see the trees and vote on the 93.3 The Peak FM/Van Isle Ford "People's Choice Award" to win an Apple iPad 2. Proceeds go to the B.C Children's Hospital, a very important organization and one that is close to my heart! Get down to the Best Western Barclay if you can, if not, vote online by clicking HERE

Part of enjoying my "down time" over the holidays without Bulldog Hockey was getting out with friends and family and taking part in some Alberni Valley Christmas sights and sounds, and the Festival of Trees was one of them - I threw together this video to have some fun - enjoy taking a look!

Please don't complain about the quality...I'm an amateur videographer with an amateur camera and amateur editing skills! Like my Christmas Present wrapping abilities, it's the thought that counts, haha!

And here's the West Coast Winter Wonderland!

Talk to you tonight! Thanks as always for checking the blog!

Hammer

Hughson gives Harry and the Dogs a shout

2012-01-02T13:54:00.001-08:00

I'm just starting to watch the game now (love the pvr) as we were out at the lake with friends and family taking all for mini quads for rides on Griff's Christmas present followed by some hot dogs and a fire at the lake!

Thanks to my Island Radio colleague and Capitals Broadcaster Ian Holmes who notified me that Jim Hughson have Harry Zolnierczyk and the Bulldogs a mention just past the halfway mark of the game. I had to laugh as just as I type this my hometown of Flin Flon got a shutout as Bobby Clarke was interviewed! Awesome!

Hammer

Sent from my iPhone

Kings 5 Dogs 1

2011-12-31T22:19:00.001-08:00

The Dogs fell behind early in this one and couldn't recover as the Kings skated to a 5-1 win.

It was 1-0 Kings just over two minutes in when James Neal found his own rebound after an initial breakaway stop by Matt Larose. The Kings blew the game open with goals just 8 seconds apart four minutes into the second, the first coming on a bad break as Carter Shinkaruk put a wrist shot on net that ramped up off a Bulldog stick and up and over Larose. Off the next face off the Kings raced in on the attack and made it 3-0 as Evan Richardson tapped one into an open net on a core crease feed.

The Dogs made a game of it again four minutes later when Dylan Nowakowski took over the team scoring lead blowin a slapped through Maguire. That's all the Dogs could muster though as the Kings added one more late in the period just 5 seconds into a power play as Cohen Adair walked in alone off the draw and tucked it home.

The Kings completed the scoring with just over a minute to go in the game on a 5 on 3 power play as Teagan Waugh tipped a point shot home for the 5-1 final as it looked for a moment that the teams might play to their 4th straight 4-1 game this year.

The Dogs are back at it Wednesday night in Coquitlam before they finally return to Home Ice Friday and Saturday to host Cowichan and Langley.

Now to get home to ring in 2012! Be safe be smart tonight and don't forget the outdoor game tomorrow in Philly!

Talk to you next year!

Hammer

Larose's new gear

2011-12-31T16:34:00.001-08:00

Dogs Line Up

2011-12-31T16:34:00.000-08:00

Waiting for our boat

2011-12-31T09:25:00.000-08:00

Dogs visit Kings tonight, have a fun, SAFE New Year's Eve,Rangers @ Flyers outdoors tomorrow

2011-12-31T08:16:00.001-08:00

The Bulldogs wrap up 2011 tonight as they visit the Kings in Powell River with a special start time of 5:00, allowing the Dogs to get home tonight and fans to get out of the game early to ring in 2012.

Catch the pregame show on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak at 4:45 this afternoon. Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is Eddie Gregory, Play by Play voice of the Coquitlam Express, who's currently at the World Juniors calling Canada's games for Fast Hockey...what an experience that must be - I am green with envy!

As the puck drops in Powell River it also drops in Edmonton as Canada takes on Team USA, but the game doesn't mean much as the Americans have already been eliminated.

Have a fun New Year's Eve - there are several celebrations happening tonight that I know of. Revolution Productions has the Lance Lapointe Band performing and The Peak's Jolie McMullan MC'ing at John Paul II, Polly's Pub has live entertainment and there is also a celebration at Cherry Creek Hall.

Get out and have fun, but most importantly BE SAFE and BE SMART - do not get behind the wheel, don't let a friend get behind the wheel, and don't get in a vehicle with someone who has been drinking. Call a cab, a friend, an enemy, walk, crawl, run, WHATEVER, just DON'T DRIVE!

Last but not least - don't have too much fun or you may not enjoy the Winter Classic tomorrow morning as former Bulldog Harry Zolnierczyk and the Philadelphia Flyers play host to the New York Rangers outside at Citizen's Bank Park in Philly

Hammer

Dogs 2 Grizzlies 1

2011-12-30T21:41:00.001-08:00

Gritty road win for the Dogs tonight as they snapped a three game winless streak with a 2-1 victory over the Victoria Grizzlies.

Victoria led 1-0 despite a strong start by the Dogs on a Jarryd Ten Vaanholt deflection, but the Dogs answered with a Dylan Nowakowski power play goal set up by Evan Tironese and Turner Popoff. Shortly afterwards the penalty kill came up big to keep the game tied as the Grizz went to a 5 on 3 power play for over a minute.

The only goal the rest of the way came early in the third when Walker Hyland got the game winner as he banked one in off a Victoria defender in the dying seconds of the power play.

The Dogs PK would again be called upon to protect the lead through the back half of the third with back to back kills to make the lead stand.

Shots favored the Dogs 35-16 with Max Fenkell picking up the win while Garrett Rockafellow earned 3rd star honours with the loss.

Special teams were just that for the Dogs as they went 2 for 5 on the PP and 6 for 6 on the PK

Now to hit the hay...back at the rink to head to Powell River early tomorrow.

Bear Mountain Arena

2011-12-30T18:20:00.001-08:00

Dogs Line Up for tonight.....

2011-12-30T18:02:00.001-08:00

Click the image to enlarge it!

Hammer

Dogs in Victoria tonight, Powell River tomorrow, to wrap up 2011

2011-12-30T08:30:00.000-08:00

Catch Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM tonight as the Dogs return to action following the Christmas Break as they visit the Grizzlies in Victoria. Catch the pregame show at 7:00 with the puck drop to follow at 7:15

For more details, check out my "Weekly Preview" article on the Bulldogs website by clicking HERE

Hammer

My Gift to you...A Very Merry BCHL AND Bulldog Christmas!

2011-12-23T02:09:00.000-08:00

A BIG Huge THANKS to everyone involved with the Bulldog organization, and everyone involved throughout the BCHL that helped make this all happen. I can do all the work - and trust me it is ALOT of phone calls, recordings, and time sitting in the studio at the Radio Station for hours on end - BUT if they don't give me their time it quite simply would not happen.

Every year when I do this I always feel very fortunate to work in conjunction with such a great team in the Dogs, and within such a great league as the BCHL. When the action comes off the ice and I'm not asking questions about wins and losses and injuries etc etc etc you realize how great all the people are that are associated with this great game.

I can't remember how many years I have thrown this together now, 4, 5 6? It's always a lot of fun to do and it's especially fun when it's a Coach or Play-by-Play guy that has "been there, done that" when it comes to giving me their wishlist and their greetings from previous years. They answer the phone and I say "It's that time of year again" and they know exactly what it's about. The same can be said when it's a Bulldog veteran compared to a rookie or new member of the organization. The guys that did it last year know whats up, while most of the new guys are a little taken aback and what to wish for and who to send greetings out to!

It's a sign of the times when I do this and you can hear it in the voices of EVERYONE whether it's a Bulldog Player of a BCHL Play-by-Play guy or Coach. What they most want is TIME to "check out" from the rink and the game for a bit and get home to spend some time with their family, friends, and loved ones.

So to the parents of the players, here's hoping you are all having a great break with your "boys". To the families, wives, girlfriends and children of the Coaches and Play-by-Play guys here's hoping you are enjoying your time together!

And last but not least, it's my sincere hope that the Blog and Bulldog Broadcasts make the gap between home and Port Alberni just a little smaller and you feel somewhat closer to your boys when I know you are missing them so much! It is what motivates me to do the job every game and every time I post on the blog!

The concept is very simple - I ask everyone to give me some items on their Christmas wish list as in what they want under the tree for themselves, whether it's related to the game or not, and I then ask them to send greetings to anyone they would like to send them out to!

Everyone always asks me what I want and what is on my list, so here goes: That everyone has a safe and happy break with their loved ones. That the Bulldog players have good luck, and especially good health for the remainder of the season. And that the players come back from the break energized and that they BELIEVE that they can come back, and have an outstanding second half of the season and that they can climb up the standings and into the Playoffs. You hear stories at all levels of hockey, and sports period, where a team comes together and catches fire and rises from the valley and reaches the PEAK. And I would really like to be a part of it here. The last wish is to see the rink FULL again and rocking like it used to. Get this community inspired, and they will back you like you can't even believe. So BELIEVE that with half the season to go, there is time to change where you are at. That time however is fleeting! So come back FIRED UP guys! Away from the rink I wished for a great break with my loved ones - so far, so good! And some other material goods that don't really matter!

If you like this feature, or what you see in the blog or the Bulldogs Broadcasts and you would like to give me or my family a gift, then please feel free to click the PayPal DONATE button on the right hand side over there ----> at the top. NO, it's not why I do this, and NO, I don't expect anything! However, I have been fortunate enough to get some very generous support this year and years gone by from some fans and some families of Bulldog players. It is much appreciated and I can't say thanks enough!

Enough chit-chat, without further adieu here's all FOUR parts of "A Very Merry BCHL Christmas" and a "Very Merry Bulldog Christmas" as they originally ran during our broadcasts before the break Friday in Coquitlam and Saturday in Surrey.

If you would like to keep a copy of the audio, then PLEASE click and Download! These files are pretty huge, and it's not cheap to host them on the Internet for everyone to enjoy and I'm running out of room!

Thanks again everyone for their help! From mine to yours, with apologies to Krusty the Klown for stealing a line from his "Non Denominational Holiday Special" - have a Merry Christmas, Joyeux Noel, Happy Hanukkah, Tip Top Tet, Kwazy Kwanzaa, Solemn Dignified Ramadan, or whatever else you celebrate!

A final reminder - All Audio is Courtesy and Copyright 93.3 The Peak FM and the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group

Very Merry BCHL Christmas Part One by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Very Merry BCHL Christmas Part Two by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Very Merry Alberni Valley Bulldogs Christmas Part One by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Very Merry Alberni Valley Bulldogs Christmas Part Two by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Hammer

Eagles 6 Dogs 5, Happy Holidays....

2011-12-18T00:30:00.000-08:00

Quite the wild and crazy game in Surrey tonight as the Dogs fell 6-5 to the Eagles.

Read all about it from the Dogs website with the "Weekly Recap" HERE

I'm DONE with writing/typing for now and am very much looking forward to the break!

I will post the BCHL and Bulldogs Christmas specials in the days to come so be sure to check back.

Thanks as always for checking the blog and for your support. Enjoy getting your boys back home at this special time!

Boys - be safe, be smart, and come back ready to flip your record from the first half to the second half and push for the post season!

Hammer

Dogs @ Eagles tonight, A Very Merry Bulldogs Christmas, Dogs @ Express highlights...

2011-12-17T15:25:00.000-08:00

The Dogs try to bounce back from a tough one last night in Coquitlam to head on the Holiday Break on a winning note tonight as they face the Eagles for the third time this season.

The pregame show kicks off at 6:45 with the puck drop at 7:00 from the South Surrey Arena on 93.3 The Peak FM

Be sure to catch the 1st and 2nd Intermission shows as I present my...present, haha, to you the Bulldog fans, "A Very Merry Bulldog Christmas" where I caught up with players, coaches, staff, support staff, etc of the Dogs to get their wishlist items and season greetings. Always a lot of fun.

Here's the highlights from last night - lots of them for Coquitlam, not many of them for the Bulldogs.

Express 8 Dogs 2

2011-12-16T23:39:00.001-08:00

Tough night for the Dogs on many counts as they took it on the chin in dropping an 8-2 decision in their first visit this season to Coquitlam, their fourth straight loss to the Express this season.

An ominous beginning to the game saw the Dogs in the penalty box and then down 1-0 before the game was barely a minute old on a Brady Shaw deflection before Malcolm McKinney made it 2-0 on a 2 on 1 rush later in the frame. Just 30 seconds later Matt Larose stopped Brady Shaw on a breakaway, and then Shaw again as he was awarded a penalty shot on the play, to keep it 2-0 after one.

Larose made two more breakaway stops early in the second, before being beaten on at least the third one he faced in the early moments of the second, this one coming with the Express shorthanded as McKinney scored his second of the game to make it 3-0. The Dogs then ended up in the box repeatedly, resulting in back-to-back 5 on 3 powerplay goals for the Express from Shaw and then McKinney as he completed the hat trick for a 5-0 score. One more powerplay goal from Dante Godinho made it 6-0 before the Dogs were rewarded with a powerplay chance that they connected on as Dylan Nowakowski set up Walker Hyland at the top of the crease to make it 6-1. Jon Siemer replied for the Express when he banked one in from behind the line to make it 7-1, before Walker Hyland's second of the game, again off a Dylan Nowakowski set up with 10 seconds left in the second for a 7-2 score.

The only goal the rest of the way was another powerplay goal from the Express, a gorgeous tic-tac-toe set up as Brady Shaw completed the hat trick on a backdoor one-timer six minutes into the third.

The Express added one more for good measure on the powerplay in the third for the 8-2 final on a highlight reel set up as Shaw added his 3rd goal of the game,

Final shots favoured the Dogs 43-38. The Dogs went 1 for 6 on the powerplay while the Express went 5 for 9 including two 5 on 3 goals and one while shorthanded.

The Dogs are short bodies at the moment and no doubt dearly miss their leading scorer in Justin Morello, and one of the guys playing great hockey lately in Brandon Adams who was head-shotted Sunday afternoon. Throw in Tyler Berkholtz - hurt in practice Thursday, and Brandon Halls and Yan Kalashnikov and you are in tough. By no means an excuse, but a factor for sure.

Here's hoping the Dogs can bring a better effort tomorrow in all facets of the game to head on the break on a winning note.

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.

Dogs @ Express

2011-12-16T19:02:00.000-08:00

Harry Z scores another beauty, Dogs visit Express tonight

2011-12-15T21:15:00.000-08:00

Amazing picture, reminds me of vintage Harry, like the one of him leaping when screening the Nanaimo goalie!

Catch Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM tonight with the pregame show from Coquitlam at 6:45 with the puck drop at 7:00.

My Holiday tradition as a gift to everyone associated with the league runs through both intermissions, "A Very Merry BCHL Christmas" which is always a lot of fun so don't miss it!

Check out my "Weekly Preview" article from the Dogs site HERE

Hammer

Zbomb scores again...

2011-12-15T20:41:00.001-08:00

...Great to see former Bulldog Harry Zolnierczyk score again tonight in the Flyers 4-3 win over the Habs in Montreal.

Even better that it was on TSN, as many Dogs fans were obviously watching the game...I was thinking something must have been on fire as I was driving home and my phone didn't stop going off in my pocket for at least 5 minutes. Curiosity finally got the better of me and I pulled over to check what was up. Brought a big smile to my face to see a long string of messages saying "Harry scored" Z just scored a beauty" and so on and so forth - way to go Harry!

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.

A Very Merry BCHL + Bulldog Christmas...

2011-12-15T12:41:00.001-08:00

...Quick update from the bowels of the Multiplex. Apologies for the downtime lately on the blog lately, my family was out visiting from Manitoba and I had a couple days off.

I have spent the last couple days working on my Christmas Present to the BCHL and Bulldog fans - be sure to tune in tomorrow and Saturday!

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.

Ringing the Bells...

2011-12-14T14:17:00.000-08:00

93.3 The Peak FM has taken over the Salvation Army Christmas Kettle at the Government Liquor Store today so please drop by with some spare change or bills, if you can spare some!

I'm here until 4pm, David is here from 4 to 6

Merry HoHo

Hammer

Skate with the Bulldogs

2011-12-12T19:20:00.000-08:00

Jam packed!

Autographs

2011-12-12T19:11:00.001-08:00

Bulldog Winter Wonderland Skate

2011-12-12T19:00:00.001-08:00

Dogs 4 Rivermen 4

2011-12-11T17:10:00.001-08:00

Lots of entertainment, but no winner today at the Pound as the Dogs and Rivermen played to a 4-4 draw.

To read my "Weekly Recap" visit the Dogs website HERE

Off for some R and R for a couple of days with my parents out visiting.

Hammer

New Colour Guy...

2011-12-11T13:23:00.001-08:00

Ace has been too naughty

Dogs host Rivermen this afternoon, Frank Slubowski up on 2nd Intermission

2011-12-11T10:09:00.000-08:00

The Dogs and Rivermen finish off busy weekends when they meet this afternoon at the Dog Pound. Both teams have played twice already this weekend and have spit their two games. The Dogs lost to Penticton last night and beat Cowichan Friday night. The Rivermen topped Nanaimo Friday and fell to the Capitals in Duncan last night.

It's the fourth meeting the teams this season and the second at the Dog Pound after the Dogs picked up a 4-0 win in the most recent meeting. The Dogs have won two straight head to head - after Langley won the first meeting 7-1, the Dogs won the return match 7-1 just over a week later in Langley.

Catch the pregame show on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM at 2:15 with the play-by-play to follow at 2:30 with Ace and myself.

Today's 2nd Intermission feature guest is former Bulldog Frank Slubowski, now with the Western Michigan Mustangs in his first season of NCAA hockey.

Hammer

Vees 6 Dogs 2

2011-12-10T23:16:00.000-08:00

Tough loss for the Dogs tonight as they skated with the BCHL's best save for a minute span late in the second where the Vees went from looking like a great team to looking like a downright scary team as they blew open a 3-2 game with three goals in just over a minute to take a 6-2 lead.

The Vees would then put it on cruise control for the third period as neither team hit the net.

Credit to the Dogs for keeping in the game after the Vees scored just over a minute in to lead 1-0. It would have been easy at that point to wilt under the pressure but they battled back with Ryan Lough converting a Brandon Adams pass on a 2 on 1 rush to make it 1-1 five minutes in. Once again credit to the Dogs for battling back from a 3-1 hole to make it 3-2 when Dylan Nowakowski put a slapper through the legs of Chad Katunar on the power play as the Vees picked up a Bench Minor. The goal would appear to only wake up the Vees though as less than a minute later the three-goal barrage began.

Ryan Lough ties it

Next up for the Dogs is a date with the Langley Rivermen Sunday afternoon at the Pound, a 2:30 puck drop. I'm off to bed and off to get a Christmas tree with the folks tomorrow!

Hammer

Dan "the stats man" Tisserand

2011-12-10T18:47:00.000-08:00

...Gets the ACE hat.

Winter Wonderland coming together...

2011-12-10T11:36:00.000-08:00

...Santas Elves are busy!

Dogs top best in Coast Friday night, host BCHL best Vees tonight

2011-12-09T21:47:00.001-08:00

The Bulldogs snapped a two game losing streak Friday night and made a winner of Kevin Willison in his debut behind the Dogs bench with a gritty total team effort, bringing as close to a full 60 minute effort as you can get. The Dogs remained unbeaten in three games against the Caps this season - all of them in Duncan - with now two wins and a tie so far in the head to head series.

It was just the second loss in regulation for the Capitals in their last SIXTEEN games. THAT ladies and gentlemen is how you get to be the top ranked team in the Conference.

The Dogs came out as one might expect after all the changes that went down this week as everyone top to bottom looked fired up and extra motivated with the hopes of showing their stuff to the new bench boss. Just over two minutes into the game, and about 30 seconds after failing to score on a 4 on 1 rush, the Dogs took a 1-0 lead on a bang-bang play when Ryan Lough converted a Tyler Berkholtz feed from behind the net with a quick release past the glove of Derek Dun. It was almost 2-0 shortly afterwards on the power play but an Arty Kalshnikov shot hit the post and then Derek Dun made the rebound stop from the seat of his pants. The Caps also hit the bar later in the period on a bad pass up the middle that Matt Brown intercepted walking right down main street. Max Fenkell (who was great all game) kept it 1-0 after one as he faced a first period penalty shot for the second straight game, again making the save on Travis Stephens as he did Sunday afternoon. I have to go back and check my records but Max might have stopped three straight penalty shots. It might be four as I also remember him stopping at the very least one more earlier in the season.

The score stayed that way until late in the second when the Caps tied the game at 1-1 with just over a minute to play in the period when they connected on the power play as Brayden Sherbinin fired one home from the top of the right circle off a good cross-ice set up as it was anyone's game heading into the third.

The Dogs got the eventual game winner six minutes into the third with another play that pushed the pace as Chase Van Allen fired a shot at the net from the left point that ended up deflecting off a stick and onto the tape of Josh Mitchell, who in turn one-touched it back to the slot for Brandon Adams who let a quick shot go that beat Dun low stick-side to make it 2-1. Through good mistake free hockey, good goaltending and solid penalty killing the Dogs would make the lead stand until they iced it in the dying seconds of regulation as Marlon Sabo cleared the puck out of the zone and to the Caps blue line where Adams out raced a Cap and chased it down before finding the open cage for the 3-1 final. Adams ended up figuring in on all the Dogs offense on the game earning 1st star honours.

Shots favoured the Dogs 30-28. The Dogs went 0 for 5 on the PP while the Caps went 1 for 5. The Capitals have now gone two games without scoring a goal at even strength.

Three Stars:
3rd) Max Fenkell
2nd) Matt Brown
1st) Brandon Adams

Here's hoping the Dogs bring the same level of EVERYTHING tonight to their game that they brought in Duncan - fire, passion, work ethic, sacrifice - all those buzz words - as they can see what they are capable of when they do. More importantly I hope they really do believe in what they are capable of, as confidence makes all the difference. It was nice to see some of the guys play with an increased level of swagger tonight. And not swagger as in cockiness either but just playing well. Crazy stuff that confidence business, it can come and go in the blink of an eye and the difference it can make in a player is everything. You can go from a game breaker to a bench warmer pretty quick. All you have to do to gain some is just have your head in the right place and make some plays and next thing you know it's a downhill slope but in a good way.

The Dogs will certainly need to make some plays if they have designs on beating the best in the league tonight in the Penticton Vees, winners of lucky 13 in a row after they opened their Island swing with a 5-4 win over the Grizzlies in Victoria.

Catch the pregame show at 6:45 on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM with Ace and myself, with the play-by-play to follow at 7:00pm. Langley Rivermen play-by-play voice Brandon Astle is my 2nd Intermission guest.

Fans are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to the game as the Dogs are attempting to stock the shelves for the less fortunate with the holiday season coming up fast. Anyone that brings something to donate gets an entry for the Airplane toss to try and win a nice holiday bird!

Hammer

Dogs @ Caps to kick off busy weekend tonight, AV Rollergirls....

2011-12-09T07:04:00.000-08:00

The Dogs are back in action tonight as they visit the Capitals in Duncan to kick off a three-game weekend. Catch all the action on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM at 7:15 with the play-by-play to follow at 7:30. It's the first meeting between the teams since early October.

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is Fraser Rogers, Play-by-Play Voice of the Penticton Vees, who visit the Dog Pound tomorrow. Check out his blog The Three Vees HERE

Also check out my "Weekly Preview" article from the Bulldogs website HERE

If you want a night off from hockey, why not head to Glenwood to check out a new sport...or a new to the Valley sport!

The Alberni Valley Roller Girls are ready to introduce the sport of Roller Derby to the Alberni Valley. The team has been training hard, and its’ skaters will be featured in the league’s first roller derby bout on Dec 10^th . “Slay Belles 2011”, is holiday themed, and showcases exhibition teams “Violent Night” vs. “Deck the Dolls”. The teams are made up of the Alberni Valley Roller Girls, and feature seasoned guest skaters from all over the Mid Island, the Lower Mainland, and the Fraser Valley.

The AV Roller Girls have had a successful pre-season training schedule, having overcome injuries, illness and practice venue changes, to emerge as a team ready to kick some butt! This summer, AVRG held their first sponsorship drive, and have several corporate, business and individual sponsorships in place. The women are excited to make their sponsors and community proud this season, and “Slay Belles” is their chance to show off all their hard work. This family friendly, all ages event will be held at Glenwood Arena on Dec 10^th.

Doors open at 6:30, tickets are $10.00, $5.00 for children 12 and under . This rock’em sock’em fast paced show of athleticism features a beer garden, raffles, 50/50 draws, and limited track-side “suicide seating”. Whistle Blows at 7pm.

So bring your family, friends and roll grandma on down to Glenwood on Dec 10th, and be ready to pick your favorite Alberni Valley Rollergirl to cheer on!

Individuals and businesses interested in sponsoring AVRG for their 2012 Roller Derby season, or women over the age of 19 who are interested in skating with the team, can find more information at the league’s website albernivalleyrollergirls.com. Tickets to “Slay Belles” are available at Sweet Avenue on Argyle, Port Thrift Shop on 3^rd, or from your favorite Alberni Valley Roller Girl!

Hammer

Andy Oakes and Kevin Willison Interviews...

2011-12-08T17:36:00.000-08:00

By popular demand, here are the Interviews from Andy Oakes and Kevin Willison from my 93.3 The Peak FM Morning Show yesterday and today respectively.

As always, all Audio is Courtesy and Copyright 93.3 The Peak FM and the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group

ANDY OAKES by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Kevin Willison by Hammer's Bulldog Blog

Bulldogs President Andy Oakes on THE PEAK, 8:10am today...UPDATE - Kevin Willison new Head Coach

2011-12-07T07:41:00.000-08:00

Catch Bulldogs President Andy Oakes on 93.3 The Peak FM this morning just after 8:10am as we will chat about the dismissal of Paul Esdale yesterday, and the naming of a new Head Coach today

UPDATE - Here's your new Coach!

December 7th, 2011
For Immediate Release

The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are pleased to announce Kevin Willison as the teams new Head Coach.

Kevin comes with a long history of playing and coaching in the professional and amateur levels. Kevin was drafted by the St. Louis Blues 72nd overall in the 1978 draft. He proceeded to have a tremendous career in the IHL playing seven seasons of Pro with Port Huron, Muskegon and Milwaukee. In 2004 his jersey was retired by the Milwaukee Admirals honouring his time with the club. He was twice awarded the Governors Trophy which is awarded to the top defensemen in the league. He also spent one season as the Head Coach of the Milwaukee Admirals of the IHL and one season as the Head Coach of the Virginia Lancers of the East Coast Hockey League.

Kevin’s amateur coaching career spans from minor hockey in the city of Calgary for multiple years prior to taking on a position with the Edge School in Calgary as the Head Coach of their prep midget team where they were consistently a top team in western Canada. Most recently Kevin was the head coach of the Olds Grizzlies in the AJHL where he has just resigned from last week.

Kevin has coached young notable players such as Taylor Hall of the Edmonton Oilers and Matt Dumba of the Red Deer Rebels who is an invitee to the Canadian World Junior Team along with the Bulldogs very own Brandon Halls.

“We are very excited to be able to find a coach of Kevin’s calibre at this time of year and believe he will bring with him the discipline, work ethic and experience that will give us a chance to be a playoff hockey club”, stated president Andy Oakes.

Kevin will be available to the media after practice at 4:30 pm on Wednesday December 7th, 2011 for comment.

Coaching change in Alberni Valley...UPDATED WITH DETAILS

2011-12-06T14:08:00.000-08:00

The Bulldogs have parted ways with Head Coach and Assistant Director of Hockey Ops Paul Esdale, as of some time today. No further details are available at this time, but I have been told that a Press Release is forthcoming so I will post more details when they come available.

Apologies that I don't have more at the moment and didn't have something sooner. This couldn't have happened on a worse day for me as I'm down with a bad case of the Flu or Food Poisoning and I also told the team I wouldn't confirm any rumours until this afternoon as they requested that they be able to tell the players first.

December 6th, 2011

For Immediate Release

The Alberni Valley Bulldogs announce Paul Esdale has been removed from his position as Head Coach and Assistant Director of Hockey Operations.

Bulldogs President Andy Oakes stated, “We would like to thank Paul for his efforts towards the club over the past two and a half years.” “The club has not achieved the success we believe this group is capable of at this point and a change is required in order to give our group a chance to be a playoff hockey club.”

The club will announce the New Head Coach on Wednesday December 7th, 2011

For further comment please contact Andy Oakes or Rick Schievink

Hammer

Dogs can't buy one, fall 2-1 to Salmon Arm

2011-12-04T22:20:00.000-08:00

Gritty road win for the 'Backs, and a tough loss for the Dogs today at the Pound. The Dogs defined snake bitten today, as they trailed 2-1 after 40 minutes and came out and out shot their opponents 17-3 but couldn't get even a single one past Kurt Williams to get the equalizer.

My "Weekly Recap" is up on the Bulldogs website, click HERE to read it

Dogs host Silverbacks, Mitch MacMillan 2nd Intermission Guest

2011-12-04T10:57:00.000-08:00

The Dogs are back in action this afternoon when they host the Salmon Arm Silverbacks for the only meeting between the teams this season. Catch the pregame show on 93.3 The Peak FM at 2:15 with the play-by-play to follow at 2:30 with Ace and myself on 93.3 The Peak FM

Former Bulldog Mitch MacMillan, now with the St. Cloud State Huskies, will be my 2nd Intermission guest

On Location at Van Isle Ford, Dogs at Safeway today...

2011-12-03T11:20:00.001-08:00

It's the finale of the $5,000 cash giveaway today at Van Isle Ford, and I'm Live On Location here for THE PEAK until 2pm. The nitty gritty of the giveaway starts getting going after 12 noon so come down say hello and watch the proceedings and get a great deal on a new or used ride!

Also, get out to Safeway to meet the Bulldog Players and Staff today from 12 until 2pm. One group of guys will be there from noon to 1pm and other group will be there from 1pm to 2pm. The first 20 people in line at noon and 1pm will get a free ticket to an upcoming Dogs game!

Hammer

Teddy Bear Toss

2011-12-02T21:35:00.001-08:00

The plush ended up flying, but not until very late in the game as the Kings held the Dogs off the board for over 59 minutes en route to a 4-1 win. The only thing the Kings didn't accomplish tonight was the shutout.

The Dogs ended up in the penalty box before the game was a minute old and it would be a sign of things to come. The Kings struck on the advantage when Craig Dalrymple fired a one-timer through the legs of Matt Larose. The Dogs actually battled back well despite being in an early hole, getting good opportunities and drawing two penalties but they couldn't find the net as Jamie Phillips came up with several big saves. A late period penalty again ended up in the back of the net when Craig Dalrymple scored his second of the game banking one in from behind the net after driving down the left wing for a 2-0 Kings lead after one.

The Dogs again ended up in the box early in the second, but that Powell River power play would be cut short when Cohen Adair was given a 5 minute penalty for a blow to the head on Brandon Halls which left Halls down on the ice for a considerable period. Halls would also leave a considerable pool of blood on the ice, and would not return to the game. The Dogs were unable to find the net on the shortened major though, and the Kings took a 3-0 lead later in the period as Matt Scarth found a rebound in front after the inital shot by Craig Dalrymple hit Max Fenkell square in the mask. One more power play goal late in the period, again by Dalrymple on a great set up by Evan Richardson made it 4-0 Kings after two periods.

The Dogs would finally break the deadlock to send the Teddy Bears flying when they drew two late penalties, their first man-advantages since the Adair Major just over a minute into the second. Arty Kalashnikov would get the goal as he fired a one-timer high glove side on Phillips with just 28 seconds to play in the third.

Final shots 36-28 in favour of Powell River. The Kings went 4 for 8 on the power play while the Dogs went 1 for 5.

Three Stars:

3rd Jamie Phillips

2nd Jon Jutzi

1st Craig Dalrymple

The Dogs have tomorrow off from game action before they host Salmon Arm on Sunday. They will be out signing autographs tomorrow at Safeway from 12 noon to 2pm - read more on the Dogs site HERE

Hammer

Teddy Bear Toss

2011-12-02T21:29:00.003-08:00

Teddy Bear Toss

2011-12-02T21:29:00.001-08:00

New Colour Guy...

2011-12-02T19:51:00.001-08:00

Dogs vs Kings

2011-12-02T19:01:00.001-08:00

Dogs host Kings for Teddy Bear Toss tonight, visit Safeway tomorrow, Pot Luck Ceramics

2011-12-02T00:30:00.000-08:00

The Dogs are back in action tonight as they host the Powell River Kings for Teddy Bear Toss night, always a fun game! Catch the pregame show on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM with Ace and I taking to the air at 6:45.

My "Weekly Preview" article is up on the Dogs website, so give it a read for more details on the Powell River Kings Friday and the Salmon Arm Silverbacks Sunday afternoon. Click HERE to read it

Here's a look back of some of the past Teddy Bear goals, always cool to see the fur fly and always a goal that each guy wants to score for sure so hopefully there's some added motivation. At the same time it can be added pressure too if a goal takes a while to come as the guys know the bears are ready to fly. Here's hoping the Dogs come ready to play as the Kings certainly will and they are a good defensive team.

Also don't forget that the Bulldogs will be at Safeway on Saturday from Noon to 2pm, encouraging fans to come meet the guys and get autographs. The first 20 fans lined up for the first group of guys at 12 and the first 20 fans lined up for the second group of guys at 1pm will get a free ticket to an upcoming Dogs game!

And the last item for now - don't miss Pot Luck Ceramics "Christmas Market in the Barn" starting tonight and going throughout this and next weekend!

Christmas Market in the Barn with Pot Luck Ceramics

· Dec 2 from 4pm – 8pm

· Dec 3 and 4 from 10am – 4pm

· Dec 9 from 4pm – 8pm

· Dec 10 and 11 from 10am – 4pm

· 4011 Cowley Rd

· Ty Watson will be out with Coffee/tea/hot choc and bake sale

· Bread of Life will be doing winter meal soup and bun/hot dogs and drinks

· 731-6563 for more information or www.potluckceramics.com

TEDDY BEAR TOSS Friday night, Meet the players at Safeway, Alberni Wrestling+Alberni Midget Dogs updates

2011-11-30T10:02:00.000-08:00

Bulldogs Teddy Bear Toss Night
PRESS RELEASE

November 29, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Port Alberni, BC – The Alberni Valley Bulldogs announce today that the annual Teddy Bear Toss Night will take place on Friday, December 2, 2011 at 7pm when the Bulldogs host the Powell River Kings. Fans are once again being asked to bring new teddy bears to the game, and “send the fur flying,” says Laurie Smilie Director of Sales and Marketing. “It always brings a smile to everyone’s face when the Bulldogs score their first goal, the horn goes off and the fans collectivley toss their new teddy bears onto the ice.” The players will deliver all the teddy bears collected that night to local children and seniors on December 7th.

Fans are reminded that if you cannot attend the game you may drop off your newly purchased teddy bears at the Bulldogs office. The Bulldogs would like to remind all those that will be purchasing a new teddy bear for this great event to shop local and support local merchants.

For more information contact Director of Marketing and Public Relations Laurie Smillie at 250-723-4412, 250-735-3647 or lsmillie@albernivalleybulldogs.ca.

Meet the Bulldogs and get autographs at Safeway
PRESS RELEASE

November 29, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Port Alberni, BC – The Alberni Valley Bulldogs and Safeway are pleased to announce that on Saturday, December 3, 2011 the public will get a chance to meet select Bulldogs players and coaches in person at
Safeway between 12pm and 2pm. Players will be on location in two separate groups: one group from 12-1pm and the other from 1-2pm.

The first 20 people in line for autographs at Safeway from 12:00pm to 1:00pm and again from 1:00pm to 2:00pm will also receive a free ticket to a select upcoming Alberni Valley Bulldogs’ game.

“The Alberni Valley Bulldogs have many wonderful and generous sponsors,” said Head Coach and Assistant Director of Hockey Operations Paul Esdale. “Saturday will be another great way for our players to connect with our supporters and also help promote one of our major sponsors.”

For more information contact Director of Marketing and Public Relations Laurie Smillie
at 250-723-4412, 250-735-3647 or lsmillie@albernivalleybulldogs.ca.

Alberni Wrestlers Compete at Island Novice in Victoria

Wrestling teams from ADSS, EJ Dunn, and Neill Middle School travelled to Victoria on Saturday to compete at the Island Novice Wrestling Championships. The tournament marks the official start of the school wrestling season.

The Novice tournament is intended for athletes who are relatively new to the sport and there are restrictions as to who can compete. As a result a number of the Alberni wrestlers either did not travel to Victoria or travelled down to referee rather than wrestle in the tournament. Despite having only a portion of their wrestlers compete the local teams did very well.

EJ Dunn Middle School finished third in the Junior Boys Division. The Dunn boys were led by the gold medal performances of Anthony Ashby (41 kg), Aaron Badovinac (45 kg), and Tyler Drew-Adams (Light Heavyweight).

“I was really impressed with all our wrestlers”, commented EJ Dunn Coach Russ Bodnar. “These three wrestlers did amazingly well. Anthony and Aaron are brand new to wrestling. Their natural talent and determination allowed them to have success at their first tournament. That is pretty fortunate. For Tyler his hard work and dedication really showed through. He simply outwrestled his opponents. I am really happy with the group of kids we have at Dunn they are a great group to coach. It helps having two Alberni alumni that I coached coming back to teach and help coach with James and I. Makes me feel old but new teachers Andrew Edgell and Maureen Messenger are going to be great for the future of our program.”

EJ Dunn had six additional wrestlers place in the Junior Division to help them to their third place finish. Trevor Barker (3rd at 35kg), Quentin Young (4th at 78kg), Austin Patten (5th at 60kg), Jaylyn Keitlah (6th at 45 kg), Kerrick Frey (6th at 35 kg) and Brody Daoust (6th at 57 kg) all contributed valuable team points to help their team finish third.

Neill Middle School and ADSS also had wrestlers competing in the Junior Boys Division. Though small in numbers a handful of Grade 9 boys helped ADSS finish 8th in the Junior Division. ADSS boys were led by the silver medal performance of Logan Henson. ADSS wrestler Jared Beckett placed fifth in a tough 51 kilogram division. The Neill boys wrestling team was led by the fourth place finish of Aaron Prest (4th at Light Heavyweight).

ADSS has had a small number of boys compete and place 7th overall in the Senior Boys Division. Tristan Schulz had an outstanding tournament to claim the gold medal at 85 kilograms. Cody Stewart finished third at 80 kilograms and Johannes Kulich placed fourth at 66 kilograms.

On the girls side tournament officials elected to combine the Junior and Senior division to give more opportunity for competitive matches. Despite competing against high schools EJ Dunn was once again the top Alberni school finishing 5th overall with 19 team points followed closely behind by ADSS with 18 team points. Neill Middle School also had a small number of athletes compete but finished just out of the top placers.

Breylyn Hutchings (43 kg) from EJ Dunn and Lauren Barker (54 kg) from ADSS both went undefeated in route to claiming the gold medal in their respective divisions. Silver medalists from Alberni included Jessica Finlayson (43 kg) from Neill, Corrine Gough (46 kg) from Neill and Courtney Lescorbeau (57 kg) from EJ Dunn. Isabella Larsen from ADSS (3rd at 51 kg), Isabella Jones (4th at 46kg), Lily Finalyson (4th at 43kg), Morgan Dagenais (5th at 51kg) and Kennady Clarke (6th at 47 kg) wrestled hard in order to have their names noted in the results package.

Reflecting on the results from the day Neill Middle School coach Erin Anker had this to say, “all our wrestlers should be proud of how they wrestled. Many wrestled their first match ever. All of our wrestlers, including those that didn’t place, showed courage to come to this tournament and wrestle. You learn from every match and I know we will continue to get better. That why the in Alberni wrestling the tradition continues.”

Wrestlers from all three teams will be right back on the mats training this week in preparation for upcoming tournaments. On Saturday a select group of elite wrestlers will be travelling to SFU to compete in the Roberts Rumble. At the same time wrestlers from all levels will be travelling to Chemanius for the Cougar Invitational. Parents, wrestlers and program supporters interested in finding out more about upcoming wrestling events are encouraged to visit the club’s website www.alberniwrestling.ca <http://www.alberniwrestling.ca> .

MIDGET A BULLDOGS HOCKEY

ALBERNI VALLEY SHOWS STRENGTH

With two more wins on the weekend, the Van Isle Ford Midget A Bulldogs solidified their position on top of the Vancouver Island League Division 1 standings. They beat Juan de Fuca Grizzlies 2-0 and Saanich Braves by 3-1 and are now at 5 wins and 1 loss.

On Saturday, November 27^th, the Bulldogs clashed head on with Juan de Fuca Grizzlies in a contest that amassed over 200 minutes in penalties and left both teams with short benches by the start of the third period. The first two periods were scoreless. Colby Lim, assisted by Chase Gaudreault scored the first goal of the game to start the third period. Ryan Buse, with support from Cameron MacAdams scored with 8 minutes left to make it a 2-0 final.

The game on Sunday November 27^th demonstrated the depth of the Alberni Valley competitive hockey program. The Midget A Bulldogs were short 8 regular players, with six players sitting out penalties from the previous day, and 2 recent player transfers to Junior B teams. The team was reinforced with 4 A/Ps from the Midget B team who came directly from their regular home game, goalie Andrew Cusson, defenceman Dawson Marlatt, and forwards Colin Mowat and Liam MacLeod.

Alberni Valley got the first marker five minutes in. Lim passed across the front of the crease and Cameron MacAdams slapped the puck in before the Saanich goaltender could get across. The Bulldogs spent the next three minutes on penalty kill, including a stretch of 5 on 3 that they defended successfully. Early in the second period Saanich took advantage of a loose puck in the slot to even the score. The game went end to end for most of the second period with no penalties and very few stoppages in play. With 3:38 to go, Tyler Wilhelm sniped the top corner of the net from the bottom of the left circle. MacAdams and Buse assisted. Lim added an insurance marker with 7:33 left in the third period, assisted by Gaudreault and Greg Tuckerman. Final score 3-1.

Assistant Coach Rob Gaudreault felt that the team played well on Sunday. He said, “Our A/Ps were strong and really helped win this game. Our speed and strength continue to win games for us.”

The Van Isle Ford Midget A Bulldogs will take on Comox Chiefs in their next home game at the Multiplex on Saturday December 3^rd starting at 5PM.

Dogs 6 Clippers 5, Lions host Bombers for Grey Cup, Rainfall Warning...

2011-11-26T21:26:00.001-08:00

After splitting an earlier Home and Home set this season when the Dogs won in Nanaimo Friday and the Clippers returned the favour with a win the next night in Alberni it seems fitting that this go around each team defended their home ice and gave their fans something to cheer for on the BCHL's "Celebration Weekend"

My "Weekly Recap" article including the 6-5 Dogs win Saturday night is on the Dogs website, click here to read it

Can't wait to watch the Grey Cup tomorrow...If it was the Bombers against anyone else, then I am cheering for them as I am a proud Manitoba Native. I am a BC'er NOW though and have been for a long time now, so GO LIONS!

I'm sure there will still be some brave souls at the Alberni Golf Club's Grey Cup scramble, but I won't be one of them as I am quite excited with so much hockey lately to be able to stay at home and watch the game with my little guy.Especially with an Environment Canada Weather Warning for us - click HERE to read it

Stay in and batten down the hatches! For all the folks visiting this weekend from places near and far, I'm just kidding, this is all normal, welcome to the Rain Forest! At least you don't have to shovel it!

Hammer

Dogs Parents

2011-11-26T18:58:00.000-08:00

Clippers 5 Dogs 2, Take 2 tonight at the Pound for Kidsport, Boston Pizza Postgame, The Peak On Location x 2

2011-11-25T22:34:00.001-08:00

The Dogs had little to celebrate and the Clippers had plenty to be happy about as they opened the BCHL's "Celebration Weekend" with a 5-2 win over the Dogs tonight to open the home and home set.

The Dogs started well and earned an early powerplay but failed to connect on it. Just seconds later the Clippers would be awarded a powerplay of their own. The best chance on it initally went to the Dogs as Lars Hepso raced in on a shorthanded breakaway but he couldn't fight the checker off from behind to get a shot on net. The Clippers would strike seconds later to go up 1-0 when Kyle Kramer tipped a point shot home.

Immediately following the goal Trent Dorais picked up a five minute major for a cross-check before a fight with Brett Hartskamp and the Clippers made the Dogs pay with two powerplay goals on the major from Tanner Clarkson and Kramer again to lead 3-0 after one, going 3 for 2 on the power play.

The Dogs came out with renewed energy in the second, eventually drawing a penalty and connecting on the man advantage when Arty Kalashnikov fired a Josh Mitchell slap-pass home to make it 3-1. The Dogs almost made it 3-2 a minute later but Billy Faust kept a wrap around out on the line. The Clippers would then come up the ice and take a 4-1 lead seconds later when Luke Gordon scored.

The Dogs finished the second and began the third on a five minute major power play of their own after David Iacono picked up a major for eye gouging in a fight with Mike Puddifant but the Dogs would fail to capitalize as Clippers killed it off. It was 5-1 Nanaimo later in the third on a Jesse Neher power play goal on the rush before the Dogs answered late to make it 5-2 on a Walker Hyland goal as he rushed the puck from his own end up the middle and into the Clippers zone before firing a wrist shot home from the right circle.

Final shots favoured the Dogs 38-33. The Dogs went 1 for 5 on the power play while the Clippers went 4 for 4.

Stars:
3rd Brett Hartskamp
2nd Billy Faust
1st Kyle Kramer

The two clubs go at it again tonight at the Pound, and it should be a doozy.

Catch the pregame show tonight on 93.3 The Peak FM at 6:45 with the play-by-play to follow at 7:00 with Ace and I.

It's the BCHL's "Celebration Weekend" as the Top 50 BCHL'ers list came out today.

As any Hockey Mom or Dad knows, having kids in this sport is not cheap so it's a great move that the league has made Kidsport the beneficiary of the weekend as all teams are raising funds for the cause. The Bulldogs are doing their part by holding a Silent Auction in the Upper Lobby so be sure to check out the stuff!

Tonight is also the first night this season that we move our Peak postgame show Live to Boston Pizza after the game, everyone is encouraged to come down and check it out so hopefully we'll see you there.

Before we do the Bulldogs game and Boston Pizza On Location after show, we will also be very busy as we are doing double On Locations this morning from 9am to 1pm.

I will be at the Multiplex (imagine that) for Van Isle Ford's Drive One 4UR Community to support Weaver Park so I hope you can make time to come up to the rink...if you are there for hockey already waiting for your skaters go for a ride for a good cause while you are at it!

At the same time, Jolie McMullan will be at the Re-Opening of Walmart so be sure to go see her too as you can bet they will have some great deals!

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.

Dogs @ Clippers

2011-11-25T19:03:00.001-08:00

Dogs @ Clippers tonight, $5.00 a ticket, THE PEAK everywhere this weekend, Grey Cup Golf Sunday at the Alberni Golf Club

2011-11-25T08:07:00.000-08:00

After no game last night - as far as I am aware, the first time in the 10 year history of the Bulldogs Franchise that a scheduled game didn't go as scheduled - the Dogs are back at it tonight as they visit the Nanaimo Clippers at the Frank Crane Arena to kick off the BCHL's "Celebration Weekend" The Clippers will be honouring the weekend with a special $5.00 ticket for tonight.

Catch the pregame show on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak at 6:45 with the play-by-play to follow at 7:00. Our 1st Intermission guest is Dogs goalie Matt Larose while the BCHL's Director of Communications Brent Mutis joins us in the 2nd Intermission.

Here's my "Weekly Preview" article from the Dogs site - just disregard the stuff about Surrey! Click HERE to read it

It's a very busy weekend for 93.3 The Peak as we are out and about at multiple locations. Catch Peak Weekend voice Rick as he's working a day early today, live from 2pm to 6pm this afternoon at the Hospitality Inn where they are having a huge sale! Tomorrow I will be at the Alberni Valley Multiplex from 9am to 1pm on behalf of The Peak for Van Isle Ford's Drive One 4 Your Community to support Weaver Park, and Jolie McMullan will be at Walmart also from 9am to 1pm for their Grand Re-Opening. Then its off to the Multiplex for me for the Dogs game as they host the Clippers, followed by the first Post Game Show of the season live from Boston Pizza! Whew!

One more note on THE PEAK and the power of RADIO - check out this great story of how Jolie started an off-the-cuff Radio-a-thon last Friday to support the food-strapped SPCA Animeals program. The response was awesome - way to go Port Alberni thanks for supporting and thanks for listening! Click to read more from the Alberni Valley News HERE

The Alberni Golf Club's Grey Cup tourney goes Sunday - hope it warms up a bit! In the end they will give it a go anyway as they are a tough bunch out there. We have played before during the Grey Cup or Superbowl tourneys when they had to shovel the greens off in the morning of the tourney! It's a great time as you get golf, food, prizes and then you get to watch the game!

Grey Cup Scramble on Sunday

On Sunday November 27^th is the annual Grey Cup Tournament and party.

Please register in the Pro. Shop with your 4,5, or 6 person teams or as a single. The teams can consist of all Men all Ladies or a mixed team. There will be very few rules, just a fun day. Both golfers and non golfers are welcome to join in the activities. If you prefer not to golf come out for the lunch and watch the game on one of two big screen TV’s.

There will be 9 holes of golf with many on course obstacles to overcome. The beverage cart will also be out and about. It all begins with a shotgun start at 12 noon. After golf enjoy one of Alberni Golf Course’s world famous lunches, served by the greatest staff to be found anywhere.

Kick off is 3:15, with the best in the West against the best in the East. There will be 3 or 4 meat draws, at ½ time courtesy of Rick Paul of Double R Meats. The price for this fun filled day is $25 for members and $35 for guests. If you come out just for lunch and the game the price is $ 15. This entry fee includes Golf, Lunch, ½ time appy’s and lots of prizes. See you on the 27^th..

Hammer

Eagles @ Bulldogs tonight CANCELLED

2011-11-24T14:33:00.000-08:00

The Ferries continue to be docked, which has brought about the cancellation of tonight's Eagles @ Bulldogs game at the Dog Pound.

Details upon a Make-Up date when they become available. Check that just got word - preliminary date for a make up is Saturday, February 18th.

First time in my 9 years with the Bulldogs that a game hasn't been played as scheduled, and as far as I'm aware the first game in the 10 year history of the team to be cancelled. Can't blame the two teams, its the reality of living on an Island.

Hammer

DOGS EAGLES TONIGHT - POSSIBLY CANCELLED...START TIME CHANGED IF NOT....

2011-11-24T12:01:00.000-08:00

Anyone have a jet? The Surrey Eagles have been unable at this point to make the Island, due to cancellations of BC Ferry sailings throughout the day so far. If they can get a 3pm sailing, the game is a go - now an 8pm start time though - if the 3pm is once again cancelled like the earlier sailings - the game will be cancelled for tonight and rescheduled to a later date.

Keep it locked to the blog and to 93.3 The Peak for updates when we get them - no further updates are expected until 2pm, but you never know!

Hammer

Dogs host Eagles, Bulldog Parents, BCHL "Celebration Weekend"

2011-11-24T07:31:00.000-08:00

The Dogs are back in action tonight as they get a jump on the BCHL's Celebration Weekend as they host the Surrey Eagles to open up "Parents Weekend" The Dogs are in Nanaimo tomorrow before returning home to host the Clippers on Saturday night. Another busy weekend!

Catch the pregame show tonight on Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey on THE PEAK at 6:45 with the play-by-play to follow at 7:00. Tonight's 2nd Intermission feature guest is Nanaimo Clipper play-by-play voice Dan Marshall. The Clippers were in action in Duncan last night where they took it on the chin, losing 6-1 to the Capitals.

November 23, 2011
For immediate release:

It’s the British Columbia Hockey League’s Celebration Weekend this Friday and Saturday and all 16 teams have embraced the challenge of packing their arenas for their respective home games.

KidSport, the charity selected by the league for the upcoming weekend, will receive part proceeds from the various auctions and raffles being held at the rinks. BCHL teams have arranged an array of ticket deals, alumni appearances and giveaways for fans as well as the league recognizes its half-century of hockey

“Our team marketers and sales people have really embraced this challenge and come up with some great ideas to promote their teams and the history of their franchises and the league,” said BCHL communications director Brent Mutis. “I’m impressed with the initiative shown by our teams and hope fans get on board with the festivities too.”

Anyone looking to get involved can simply visit www.bchl.ca for the weekend schedule or call their favourite team’s front office for offers their team has in the works.

Also available at all BCHL rinks this weekend is the 50th Season Commemorative Edition of Smart Hockey Magazine and limited edition ‘BCHL 50’ T-shirts.

Finally, don’t forget to vote for the BCHL’s all-time team. Voting wraps Thursday, Nov. 24 in the morning and the top-50 vote-getters will be revealed during Celebration Weekend.

Brent Mutis
Communications director
British Columbia Hockey League

Hammer

Dogs fall to Eagles, another busy week to come, Alberni Wrestling Update, SID'S BACK!

2011-11-21T09:09:00.000-08:00

A tough loss for the Dogs to end their weekend yesterday as they fell to the Eagles in Surrey by a 2-1 score. As I said on the post game show - yes a LOSS is a LOSS anyway you slice it. However, I would much rather see a hard fought loss like yesterday, instead of a no-fight loss like we saw Saturday at home to Coquitlam Saturday night. They battled hard, they were right in it, and they were a bounce away from winning it or claiming at least a point, as opposed to the night before where they looked right out of it. Just my two cents.

Check out my "Weekly Recap" from the Dogs website here

Here's the latest Alberni Wrestling update, with thanks to James Messenger for sending it along....

Alberni Wrestlers Hone Skills at Harbour City Hubbub

Wrestlers from the Alberni Valley Wrestling Club travelled to Nanaimo to compete at the second annual Harbour City Hubbub Takedown Competition at Dover Bay Secondary. Despite it being an early season exhibition event the Alberni Wrestlers already showed signs that they will be a force to be reckoned with on the mats this season.

The event featured a unique format where wrestlers only competed to take each other down. In regular freestyle wrestling once you take your opponent down you try to turn them to score points and ultimately pin them. At this tournament wrestlers had to stand up as soon as the takedown was complete. Alberni Coach James Messenger commented, “the idea behind an exhibition event like this is to have wrestlers develop their takedown skills, develop their conditioning, and encourage offensive wrestling.”

Eight Alberni wrestlers went undefeated in route to winning their weight classes and claiming the title of Takedown Champion. ADSS wrestlers Remi Wells, Jesse Wagner, Johannes Kulich, Nolan Badovinac, and Connor McDonald all went undefeated, illustrating the depth and strength the Armada team will have this season. Middle School wrestlers Julia McGowan, Micaela Dick, and Jamie Durning all from EJ Dunn also went undefeated proving their middle school will once again be one of the top developmental programs in the province.

A number of Alberni’s upcoming wrestlers lost to only one opponent to finish second in their pools. Emma Vanderlee, Jordan Wagner, Russell David and Christian Anderson all lost hard fought battles to the eventual champions in their weight divisions. Commenting on the performance of these wrestlers, ADSS and club coach Chris Bodnar, had this to say, “we lost some matches we probably wouldn’t normally loose. Then again we won some we probably shouldn’t have too. Since this was a beginning of the season warm-up competition the rounds were only one minute in length as opposed to two. As a result wrestlers had very little time to recover from early leads that they might have given their opponents. Even in some of the matches that we lost I thought our wrestlers looked good. They are doing the fundamental things we have been focusing on. Their conditioning looks good for this time of the year as well. I am pleased with how we wrestled.”

Rounding out the placings for Alberni were Bailey Durning (3rd), Breylen Hutchings (3rd), Samantha Anderson (3rd) Isabella Larsen (3rd) Michel Kurucz (3rd), Eryk McKenzie (3rd), Sheldon Haddad (3rd), Riley Neville (3rd), Jonathan Spencer (3rd), Lauren Barker (4th), Trevor Barker (4th), Tristan Schulz (4th), Oliver Witham (4th), and Aaron Badovinac.

Novice wrestlers from Neill, EJ Dunn and ADSS will practice this week in preparation for the Island Novice Tournament in Victoria November 26th. Experienced wrestlers will take the weekend off. Their next competition will be the Cougar Invitational in Chemanius or the Roberts Rumble in Burnaby December 3rd.

And finally - last but not least - you MAY OR MAY NOT have heard that Sidney Crosby has missed a couple hockey games recently...such as the last 10 months. Well he's FINALLY back tonight as the Pens host the Islanders. CBC has picked up the game nationally, so I know where I'll be this afternoon - on the couch with the little guy continuing to teach him the "finer points" of the game. Here's hoping Sid has a smooth return. Some people - nay, most people - that I have talked to have said "3 or 4 points" I say the first hit will be interesting, and who will make it?

--

Dogs lose second straight, 4-0 to Express, face Eagles in Surrey this afternoon...

2011-11-20T01:46:00.000-08:00

Exactly a week after they picked up their first shutout of the season with a 4-0 score over Langley, the Dogs ended up on the other side of the same score to the Coquitlam Express at the Dog Pound Saturday night. The Express were clearly the better team for the better part of the game as they outplayed the Dogs, who just couldn't find a way to bury one past Cole Huggins. The Bulldogs best line tonight was the AP line of Alex Grupe, Austin Evans and Dylan Haugen and it was nice to see them be rewarded and get a chance to play good minutes.

There is no rest for the wicked as the Dogs are right back at it this afternoon as they face the Eagles for the second time this season in Surrey. Catch the pregame show at 3:45 with the play-by-play to follow at 4:00pm on 93.3 The Peak FM.

Hammer

Dogs fall to Grizz 6-3, host Express tonight, VOTE VOTE VOTE today

2011-11-19T09:34:00.000-08:00

(photo:Tony Burrows)

You can't win a game by playing well for just a period, and you certainly can't win a game when the period you play your best in happens to be the FIRST period as it was last night in Victoria. Although it was a 3-1 Dogs lead after one the score was somewhat flattering in my opinion, as the Dogs were opportunistic while the Grizzlies had the better of the chances - and more of them - but Max Fenkell was sharp and kept the Dogs in the game.

In the end the team that battled harder and played better overall won. The thing the Dogs need to take offense to is the "battled harder" part. Down two of their top three scorers along with their Captain and D-man Daniel Delbianco, they absolutely need to "step up" as individuals and as a collective whole, or it is going to be very tough to win hockey games. And they quite simply can't afford to lose games if they hope to make the playoffs.

The Dogs certainly didn't "lay and egg" or a "stinker" so to speak - what maybe makes it that frustrating is that they played well and the game was there for the taking, but they just didn't push hard enough to take it.

Here's the Victoria Times Colonist's view of last nights game - click HERE to read it

No time to think about two points painfully lost last night as the Dogs are right back at it tonight on Dog Pound ice as they host the Coquitlam Express for the FOURTH time already this season. The Express have won the last two head to head meetings, including last Friday night by a 6-2 score.They are coming off a 5-3 win last night in Powell River where they scored four times on the same five minute major power play, wow!

Catch the pregame show tonight at 6:45 with the puck drop and play-by-play to follow at 7:00 on 93.3 The Peak FM

And last but certainly not least - DON'T FORGET TO GET OUT AND VOTE TODAY!

Hammer

Dogs @ Grizz

2011-11-18T19:18:00.001-08:00

Dogs visit Grizzlies tonight to begin three-game weekend

2011-11-18T11:28:00.000-08:00

Catch Boston Pizza Bulldogs Hockey tonight on 93.3 The Peak FM from the Bear Mountain Arena as the Dogs visit the Grizzlies. The pregame show kicks off at 7:00 with the play-by-play to follow at 7:15

Check out my "Weekly Preview" article looking at the weekend at hand from the Dogs website HERE

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is Colin Tiggelaar, Surrey Eagles play-by-play voice and Blogger

There is a good chance that the Dogs might be missing two of their top three scorers tonight and through the weekend, with Yan Kalashnikov still possibly out with his aforementioned "Upper Body" injury and Dylan Nowakowski most likely out with the same ailment after the vicious check he took on Saturday night from Valik Chichkin of the Langley Rivermen. The Dogs will most likely also be missing their emotional and physical leader in Trent Dorais, who is banged up and battling a "Lower Body" injury.

So its STEP UP time for someone - or better yet EVERYONE on the roster, if the team is going to have success this weekend. The Dogs are just 6 points out of a Playoff spot and they hold games in hand on every team in the Top 4 of the Conference. And how many points are up for grabs over the weekend? Yep, 6.

Hammer

Alberni Hockey Academy video, Vladimir Konstantinov art display, Dogs FLEX PACKS on sale....

2011-11-17T08:16:00.000-08:00

Very cool story here by CTV Vancouver Island on the Alberni District Hockey Canada Skills Academy. Worth taking a look if you don't really know what the program is all about. I wish something like this was around for me in my school days...I wouldn't have skipped so much school to go play hockey! (stay in school kids)

Inspirational stuff here from former Red Wing Vlad (the impaler) Konstantinov. You no doubt remember that Konstantinov was left with brain damage following a limo crash just days after the Wings first Cup win in some four decades in 1997.

It was an interesting time for me and I still remember it vividly. I was young, and immature (yes, I know, I'm so much more mature now) I hated, and I mean HATED Vladimir Konstantiov. He was in your face, dirty, tough and was a hard hitter. Looking back on it I should have loved him as he certainly didn't play like your typical Russian was supposed to. And it was the typical Russian-softie that you grow up despising in Canada.

Best hippy ever?

Man I miss Bob Cole (when he was still Bob Cole) and Harry Neale!

Best open-ice hit ever? Looks like on the replay that he just tipped the puck. Although nowadays with how the game is going its a dirty hit, a charge, a head shot, an unsuspecting player. Sigh.

It was an interesting time for me because it really humanized the game for me. I hated the guy, I wanted him hit/hurt/put out of commission, I would have done it myself if I could.

THEN the accident happened, and I realized this guy wasn't just a jersey and a number, but a human being and a man with a wife and a family. It broke my heart seeing him in the condition he was in after the accident, and seeing the outpouring of emotion when the wings brought him out in his wheelchair for the '98 celebration and all the shots of him in the booth up top during the finals.

A good initiative to support and a neat story as I certainly never would have thought any of this would be possible seeing him after the accident. And this all serves as just ONE more reminder to not drink and drive, as the limo driver did that fateful night.

Great deal here from the Bulldogs!

Bulldogs Launch 8-Game Flex Pak
PRESS RELEASE

November 15, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Port Alberni, BC – The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are pleased to announce the addition of a new ticket package that allows fans to enjoy multiple games and still take advantage of cost savings.

On November 15, 2011, the Bulldogs are lauching 8-Game Flex Paks which will be made available for a limited time. Fans will be able to enjoy one weekday game, three Friday games, three Saturday games, and one Sunday game.

“We are very excited to offer this to our fans,” said Bulldogs’ Director of Marketing Laurie Smillie. “There’s a lot of local excitement and buzz about this year’s team. This is the perfect way to support the team by either going to the games yourself or using this promotion as a Christmas gift or stocking stuffer.”

8-game Flex Paks are only $95 for adults, $80 for seniors, $65 for students, and $50 for children. Fans have the choice of which games they would like to select as a part of their Flex Pak.

The new Flex Paks can be purchased in person at the Alberni Valley Bulldogs office located at 3737 Roger Street or by phone at 250-723-4412 Tuesday to Friday between 10am and 4pm.

For more information contact Director of Marketing and Public Relations Laurie Smillie at 250-723-4412, 250-735-3647 or lsmillie@albernivalleybulldogs.ca.

Hammer

Bulldogs and City of Port Alberni team up for Port Alberni Sports Wall of Fame Joint Venture

2011-11-15T09:36:00.000-08:00

Very cool initiative here, a great way to celebrate the past exploits of the teams and athletes that called S'Port Alberni home!

Port Alberni Sports Wall of Fame Joint Venture

PRESS RELEASE
November 14, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Port Alberni, BC – The City of Port Alberni and the Alberni Valley Bulldogs are announcing a joint venture to create a Sports Wall of Fame display to be located in the Weyerhaeuser Multiplex.

After years of discussion, this project honouring the sporting history in Port Alberni will get off the ground. “We are thrilled that the Bulldogs organization has agreed to step up and help us take this vision to a reality,” said Director of Parks and Recreation Scott Kenny. “Alberni has a deep-rooted sports history and we have been collecting memorabilia for many years. We simply have not had the manpower to set the wheels in motion.” Local businesses, residents, and organizations will be invited to sponsor one of ten displays.

The displays will be permanently housed in the Weyerhaeuser Multiplex and will showcase athletes and teams who have made significant contributions to sport and acknowledge athletic achievements within the community.

“We are proud of our Bulldogs’ history,” said Alberni Valley Bulldogs’ Governor Andy Oakes. If we can also contribute to acknowledging the achievements and contributions of other individuals and sports organizations, we think it is a good way for us to give back to the community.”

The projected completion date is September 2012 and displays will be unveiled at next season’s home opener.

For more information contact Director of Marketing and Public Relations Laurie Smillie at 250-723-4412, 250-735-3647 or lsmillie@albernivalleybulldogs.ca.

Hammer

Not a bad November day...

2011-11-14T13:44:00.000-08:00

Exited the gym/pool just after high noon today and realized where I needed to go...couldn't fight the urge anymore! The little guy is in daycare, the laundry can wait until a rainy day!

What a gorgeous day at the Alberni Golf Club! Head Pro Bruce MacDonald reported over 50 golfers out today. Its tough living on the Island!

Hammer

Midget Dogs win Bronze, Canada West vs East for World Junior A Gold right now TSN 2

2011-11-13T17:08:00.001-08:00

Congrats to the Van Isle Ford Midget Bulldogs as they topped North Van 9-4 in the Bronze Medal game today at the Multiplex. North Van made a game of it down 6-1 after two as they came out on fire in the third to make it 6-4 at one point.

Still not enough hockey? Check out the best Junior A players from B.C to Manitoba as Canada West take on Ontario and East as Canada East in the World Junior A Challenge Championship game from the Langley Event Centre on TSN2

Hammer

Midget Dogs vs North Van 1 for Bronze...

2011-11-13T14:25:00.000-08:00

Right now 4-1 Dogs halfway through the 2nd.

Final at 4:00pm sees Surrey vs Powell River, as both second placed teams won their games this morning.

Lots of free hockey left to come watch!

Hammer

Dogs 4 Rivermen 0

2011-11-12T21:16:00.001-08:00

The Dogs picked up their first shutout of the season with a 4-0 win as the Langley Rivermen franchise made their inaugural visit to the Dog Pound.

Check out my Weekly Recap on the Dogs website here

Great to see the team bounce back tonight, and to see so many players have a great night. Here's hoping Dylan Nowakowski is alright.

If you are like most of the people around here and you can't get enough of the rink then I encourage you to get down to the Multiplex to check out the playoff games of the Midget tourny. The Dogs are 3-0 and see action tomorrow morning at 8:45 against Powell River in the big rink. Check out the full results, standings and schedule on the website HERE Good luck Dogs and well done so far!

Hammer

Dogs - Rivermen

2011-11-12T19:02:00.001-08:00