The National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA) and the Heart and Stroke Foundation (HSF) have joined together to launch the NHLPA Beard-a-thon, an exciting charitable initiative that will help the Foundation in purchasing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for local hockey arenas and communities across Canada. Hockey fans everywhere can log-on to www.beardathon.ca or www.nhlpa.com for more information on the NHLPA Beard-a-thon.
The 'Nucks try to bounce back after back to back losses to the Oilers tonight as they host the Wild at Rogers Arena. Catch all the action on the "Sound of the Valley" 93.3 The Peak tonight with the pregame show kicking off at 6:30 and all the action getting underway at 7:00pm
Four Alberni wrestlers left on Wednesday for the National Cadet and Juvenile Wrestling Championships in Windsor Ontario. The four flew out with coach James Messenger and will be practicing today prior to weigh-ins and medicals this evening. Competition runs Friday and Saturday in Windsor with the group flying home Sunday.
Cullen Hines and Austin Evans will compete in the Juvenile Men’s Division for wrestlers 17-18 yrs of age. Twins Jordan and Jesse Wagner will compete in the Cadet Division for boys 15-16 yrs of age. BC champions Isaiah Taylor and Jordie Bodnar were unable to make the Nationals trip this year. Hines was a bronze medalist at last year’s Nationals while Evans was fourth. For the Wagners this will be their first experience at the National level.
The local program would like to thank all those groups and individuals who contributed to help make it possible to get these athletes to Windsor. Fundraising is ongoing and help is still appreciated. Information and results on the nationals will be forwarded as soon as available.
Several Men took part in the Blind Partners optional event on Sunday. The way this works is, you pay $5 in the pro Shop before teeing off. When all men have teed off the Club Captain draws names out of a hat and that's who your partner is for the day. You may not even be playing in the same group as your partner. Your net score and your partner's net score is where you finish is the event. By all accounts all seemed to enjoy this format.
Coming first was the duo of Ron Clark and Darrell Van Os, second was the team of Glen Trask and Livio Tedesco, third it was Gerry Blender and Bill Morin. Fourth went to Mel Trelvik and Dennis Debolt, the final prize was won by Gary Mcleod and Fred Fredrickson.
In the ball sweep Dennis Debolt collected 3 ball for shooting a gross 78, while Jim Proteau came in with a gross 79, winning 2 balls. On the net side of things Livio Tedesco shot a 66 taking home 3 balls and Bob Matlock carded a 69 to win 2 balls.
Closest to the pin were won by Wayne Johnstone on # 2, Jim Proteau won the charity closest to the pin on # 4 taking home $24, Livio Tedesco on # 13 and Bill Morin on # 17.
Up next for the Men’s Club is the Westwind Pub Partner with a Pro competition. When you come into the clubhouse on Sunday morning, you pick a number out of a hat, the corresponding Pro playing in the Masters tournament will be your partner for the day. Your net score added to the Pro’s gross score is where you will finish in our event. It doesn’t matter what the Pro has shot already just what he shoots on Sunday. He could be dead-last in the field and come through with a spectacular round as your partner.
This is an individual event, be sure to register in your own foursome or as a single and you will be placed on a team. Be sure to book your tee time in the Pro Shop stating at 8AM. The usual fee of $10 applies, make sure you go into the restaurant and pay before you tee off also to draw your Pro partner. Don’t forget to register for the money pot, ball sweep and Charity closest to the pin for $2 each.
The Vernon Vipers have taken a 3-0 lead in the Fred Page Cup series after a 4-3 win last night in Vernon.
They can advance to the Doyle Cup and win their third straight league title with a Game 4 win tonight in Vernon.
A tough luck goal for the Kings and a good luck goal for the Vipers was the difference in this one, as a puck thrown at the net from the corner ended up hitting either Sean Maguire or a Kings defender before ending up in the back of the net. It's hard to comment on the topic of goaltending when you didn't see the game, but I can only assume that Michael Garteig was less than impressive to get the hook in such a HUGE game. Looking at it from the outside, it looks like a good coaching move if you get the win. It maybe looks like bad move when one goes in like that to decide the game. Garteig would've had that one, is my thought, but maybe it was just the perfect storm of bounces to see it go in. I feel for Maguire and the Kings after that one though.
If the Vipers can pick up one more win in the next four games they will pull off the "Three-peat" a pretty rare feat. Only two Junior A teams in Western Canada have won three straight league titles since the year 2000. The Humboldt Broncos were Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League Champions from 2007 to 2009. My alma matter, The O.C.N Blizzard, were Manitoba Junior Hockey League Champions from 1998 to 2003, winning five straight titles. There have been three separate three-peats in BCHL history, the most recent being the 1980 to 1982 Penticton Knights. The Nanaimo Clippers were champs from 1978 to 1980, and the Kamloops Rockets won three straight from 1962 to 1964.
Vernon franchises have repeated twice before as the Lakers, winning the BCHL in 1988 and 1989, as well as 1991 and 1992. You could say that the Vipers are on the verge of entering some pretty elite company.
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Moving along to something more in line for those who aren't playing hockey still. Golf. Here's your Alberni Golf Club "Men's Club" update with thanks to Gerry Fagan.
Several Men took part in the Blind Partners optional event on Sunday. The way this works is, you pay $5 in the pro Shop before teeing off. When all men have teed off the Club Captain draws names out of a hat and that's who your partner is for the day. You may not even be playing in the same group as your partner. Your net score and your partner's net score is where you finish is the event. By all accounts all seemed to enjoy this format.
Coming first was the duo of Ron Clark and Darrell Van Os, second was the team of Glen Trask and Livio Tedesco, third it was Gerry Blender and Bill Morin. Fourth went to Mel Trelvik and Dennis Debolt, the final prize was won by Gary McLeod and Fred Fredrickson.
In the ball sweep Dennis Debolt collected 3 ball for shooting a gross 78, while Jim Proteau came in with a gross 79, winning 2 balls. On the net side of things Livio Tedesco shot a 66 taking home 3 balls and Bob Matlock carded a 69 to win 2 balls.
Closest to the pin were won by Wayne Johnstone on # 2, Jim Proteau won the charity closest to the pin on # 4 taking home $24, Livio Tedesco on # 13 and Bill Morin on # 17.
Up next for the Men’s Club is the Westwind Pub Partner with a Pro competition. When you come into the clubhouse on Sunday morning, you pick a number out of a hat, the corresponding Pro playing in the Masters tournament will be your partner for the day. Your net score added to the Pro’s gross score is where you will finish in our event. It doesn’t matter what the Pro has shot already just what he shoots on Sunday. He could be dead-last in the field and come through with a spectacular round as your partner.
This is an individual event, be sure to register in your own foursome or as a single and you will be placed on a team. This event will be tee times, starting at 8AM there will be a group going off # 1 and at the some time another group will be teeing off # 10. In other words there will be two groups going off at 8:00 another two groups at 8:07 and so on until all the men's club are away. The usual fee of $10 applies. Don’t forget to register for the money pot, ball sweep and Charity closest to the pin for $2 each.
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The Canucks try to exact some revenge on the league-worst Oilers after a 4-1 loss at home on Saturday night as they visit the Oil at Rexall tonight. Get all the action on 93.3 The Peak FM, part of the Canucks Radio Network with the pregame show on the air at 5:30 and the play-by-play to follow at 6:00
And one more late news item, thanks to Barb for the heads up....Former Bulldogs Assistant Coach and Assistant GM Kevin Hasselberg is the new Head Coach of the Comox Valley Glacier Kings. Congrats to Kevin on getting the job, and all the best to him and his family in the future.
Here's the announcement from the Glacier Kings website:
The Glacier Kings would like to welcome Kevin Hasselberg as our new head coach for the 2011 - 2012 season. Kevin is an experienced and inspirational leader who loves to teach. He is passionate about the game of hockey, the fundamentals and discipline of structuring a culture consisting of Family Values, Trust, Integrity, Industriousness, Comaraderie and Enthusiasm. We would also like to welcome Kevin's wife Leah, daughter Shaunie and son Dyllan to our community. To contact by e-mail: hass_k@telus.net
Great news here for 20 year old Dogs Dman Frank Riddle as he is off to Wilfred Laurier next year. It was beyond a tough year for "Rids" as he was knocked unconscious on a dirty hit five minutes into the first game of the season and was fighting an uphill battle all year. Way to go Rids!
Frank Riddle Commits to Wilfrid Laurier
PRESS RELEASE
March 31 2011
Alberni Valley Bulldogs 20 year old defenseman, Frank Riddle has committed to attend Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo Ontario starting in September 2011. Riddle will play for the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks of the Ontario University Athletic (OUA) conference which also is a member of the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS), the top Canadian University league in Canada.
Riddle hails from St. Catharines Ontario and played two seasons for the Bulldogs in 2009-2010 and 2010-2011. He was best known for his commitment, community service, hard work and dedication He posted 4 goals, 12 assists for 16 points in 55 games during 2009-2010 and solidified himself as one of the Bulldogs premier defenseman. In 2010-2011, Riddle overcame several severe injuries to post 7 assists in 33 games.
“Frank is another one of those great success stories in Alberni. No one could have predicted the wave of injuries Frank sustained this season, but to his credit his dedication and will to succeed has helped him preserve through these obstacles and allow him to get to the next level. We are extremely proud of him and wish him well at Laurier, “said Bulldogs Head Coach Paul Esdale.
Riddle had several opportunities in the US and Canada to attend University but decided on Wilfrid Laurier. Riddle commented, “ I wanted to receive a good, well recognized education and be a part of a well-respected hockey program. Laurier offers both. I have been accepted into the BBA Honours Business Administration Program at Laurier. I am interested in business, and Laurier's business program is very well recognized.”
Riddle was a fan favourite in Alberni and was respected by his coaches and teammates, so much so that he was named one of the Assistant Captains this past season. The feelings were mutual as Riddle enthusiastically stated, “ I lovedvplaying in Alberni and I feel really fortunate to have been a part of the organization for two years. I want to thank my billets the Yaredics, my coaches, teammates, the fans and everyone in the organization. Port Alberni will always be in my heart and I will come back often.”
At the end of this season Riddle has also signed an Amateur tryout agreement with the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs of the Central Hockey League. Riddle will stay with the team through the end of the regular season and playoffs and will gain valuable experience to prepare him for the CIS.
The Bulldogs expect to have more announcements regarding player commitments to schools in the coming weeks as several players are close to making final decisions.
For more information please contact Paul Esdale at 250.723.4412.
Don't forget that the Bulldogs Spring Camp gets underway today and goes throughout the weekend down at the Multiplex. Admission is free, and rosters will be provided at the rink, so get out and see the Dogs of tomorrow!
Also don't forget that the Fred Page Cup series kicks off tonight as the Powell River Kings and Vernon Vipers meet in Powell River. Will it be third time lucky for Kent Lewis and the Kings? Or THREE-peat for the Vipers? Get more on the match up from the BCHL website here
Quite the story here on the changes in Nanaimo, with no punches pulled. From the Nanaimo Daily News, click to read Phillip Wolf's "Out-of-towners come up short"
Don't miss the legendary Jim Robson on 93.3 The Peak FM this morning, just after the 8:00 Information Update as he joins us for a chat about his experiences as the play-by-play voice of the Vancouver Canucks AND his time as a 17 year old rookie working for CJAV AM in Port Alberni. As CJAV celebrates our 65th birthday, we just had to talk to our most famous alum.
How is this for crazy? Man I love the Internet sometimes! A Jim Robson Sportscast from CJAV in 1956!
If you can't get enough on the Canucks, or enough on Mr. Robson, check out his books "Hockey Play-by-Play" by clicking HERE
Catch the Canucks hosting the LA Kings tonight on 93.3 The Peak FM with the pregame show kicking off at 6:30 with the puck drop and play-by-play to follow just after 7pm.
·On-ice seminar to feature skills sessions and a fun scrimmage
·New players only need basic skating skills(can skate forward)
·FREE hockey skates available for use
·FREE registration and Bring a Friend to Try It!
·Call the Multiplex at 720-2518
The Bulldogs 2011 Spring Camp kicks off tomorrow and goes all weekend at the Multiplex. If you can't get enough hockey, head down to the Multiplex to check out some future prospects. The first ice session is at 10:30 tomorrow, with rosters available at the rink. Ice sessions go throughout the weekend - admission is FREE
This is just plain crazy...maybe the back up goalie was amazingly proficient at opening and closing the bench door, and as such, he was a factor in the game?
Just plain sad, along with crazy. I hope Mount Royal wins again, and I hope if SAIT does win in the end it feels hollow and as tainted as it is. Apologies to former Bulldog Warren Muir, who plays for SAIT.
Alberta college hockey championship game to be replayed over technicality
CALGARY - A Calgary hockey team that won the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference championship on Sunday is now being told the game will have to be replayed.
The Mount Royal University Cougars defeated the SAIT Trojans by 1-0, taking the series 3-2 and finally breaking the Trojans' four-year winning streak.
But on Tuesday, the ACAC ruled the Cougars used a backup goalie who wasn't eligible and ordered another championship game be played on Saturday.
The unusual situation came as a result of an injury to Cougars' starting goalie Justin Cote in Game 4.
Cote wasn't available to play in the next game, so backup Brett Bothwell played instead, leading the Cougars to the win.
But the Cougars brought in another goalie to back up Bothwell, and even though he never played in the game, he was deemed ineligible because he is only a part-time student at the university.
(Global Calgary)
Now here's something different - Rod Phillips, the long time voice of the Edmonton Oilers (37 years) was honoured last night by the Oilers with his name - and the number of games he called (over 3000) raised to the rafters. Cool stuff.
Last but not least, here's your Alberni Golf Club Men's Club update.
Seventy men teed it up on Sunday as another Men’s Club Season got under way. The weather was fine, although there was a slight shower as we headed out onto the links, but it only lasted for one hole. The sun even tried to come out at one point. So much for the weather report.
Thanks so much to the firm of Duncan, Sabine, Collyer Accountants for sponsoring the four man best ball.
This year Club Captain Fred Fredrickson has changed things around slightly, by awarding 3 gross prizes and 5 net prizes.
First low gross was won by the team of Brett Parhar, Sam Parhar, Ken Fong and Gord Cutting. Second low gross went to the team of Steve White, Jerry White, Mickey Keeley and Gene Kimoto. The final gross prize went to Wayne Johnstone, Dennis Debolt, Colin Hamilton and Pat McKay. On the net side, first place went to Jim Proteau, Cory Neilson, Darrel Van Os and Bill Morin. Second was the team of Tom Price, John Panagrot, Colin McPherson and Bill Goodman. In third spot was Dave Mann, Steve Pointon, Phil Anker and Brian Boulliard. Fourth low net went to Joe Baker, Clint Wilson, Jim Rhodes and Ron Barker. Fifth low net was won by Wolf Suhr, Ned Stewart, Don McGowan and Vic Carlton.
Closest to the pins were won by Mike Shewchuck on #2, Fred Fredrickson was the winner of the Charity Closest to the pin on #4, collecting $46 for his effort. For his second shot on #6 it was Brett Parhar, Colin Hamilton on # 13, and Jerry White on #17. The long drive on #16 was won by Chris Colclough who received a gift certificate donated by Westwind pub. There was also three draws made for those who weren’t in the prizes, but you had to be there when you name was called to win.
In the ball sweep, Jim Proteau shot an impressive 72 to win 3 balls, followed by Bruce MacDonald winning 2 balls with a gross 77. On the net side taking home 2 balls each after shooting 69 was Mickey Keeley, Gene Kimoto and Jerry White,
Next Sunday is an open day, with the option of playing blind partners for a $5 fee. It is a two man best ball but you wont know who your partner is until you finish the game. Tee times start at 8 AM. Enter in the Pro. Shop in your own foursome. Don’t forget to enter the ball sweep, money pot and the Charity closest to the pin.
For the third straight year - (pretty incredible, no?) the Fred Page Cup Champs will be either the Vernon Vipers or the Powell River Kings. The Vipers have defeated the Kings the last two years in the final, going on to win the RBC Cup both times, winning in 6 games in 2008-2009 and 7 games last year. The series gets going April 1st and 2nd in Powell River.
It was 47 years ago YESTERDAY that Port Alberni was hit by a Tsunami from the Good-Friday Earthquake in Alaska.
For some incredible video from the March 31st, 1964 Newscast from CBC - CLICK HERE
And some more pictures. Are you PREPARED for as bad as 1964. Or as bad as Japan in 2011?
1964 inundation zones are in ORANGE. 1700 inundation zones are in YELLOW, and an estimation.
OUTSTANDING HIRE. Welcome to the team Ronnie. It's like you were already there anyway with your tireless efforts around the rink.
Hammer
Bulldogs welcome Director of Business Operations
Ron Paulson brings wealth of experience to new role
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs named Ron Paulson as the organization’s Director of Business Operations today. This new position has been created to oversee the day-to-day business operations.
Paulson will leverage over 35 years of doing business in Port Alberni to build and sustain the Bulldogs’ relationship with the local community, while overseeing the organization’s business operations.
"We are extremely pleased to have Ron join our organization,” said Andy Oakes, President of the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. “He has proven himself to be a great Alberni citizen who has contributed to multiple successful community events over the last number of the years. Ron will bring a great business acumen to our organization and local presence."
Currently working for Port Alberni Parks & Recreation, Paulson first came to the city in 1974 to play for the local senior hockey team. Since then he has gained extensive experience in retail and has been an active member of the community.
His experience in local sporting events is second to none. He was Chairman of the World U17 Hockey Challenge in 2009, and worked for the BC Summer and Winter Games when they were hosted in the area. Paulson also sits on the Alberni Valley Tourism board as a sport tourism representative, and acts as Director on the Community Futures board.
“I’m very excited about joining the Bulldogs family. I’ve been involved with Bulldogs games for 8 years from the Parks & Recreation side, and I have a strong devotion to the club in good times and in bad. I look forward to bringing that enthusiasm into work with me.”
For further information please contact:
Andy Oakes
President and Governor
andyoakes@hockeyschools.com
A hard fought loss for the Van Isle Ford Midget Bulldogs yesterday in the Bronze Medal game at the Provincials as they fell 3-1 to Surrey. Earlier in the day they lost 4-2 to Crankbrook in the Semis.
Here's hoping the last couple of losses don't take away from the great season these kids had - Island Champs and making the Final Four in British Columbia are things to be proud of. You battled hard and represented the city well, and you should be proud!
From one group of Dogs to another....thanks to Stef for an update on the PeeWee Dogs....
Hi Evan
Just got back from Coquitlam where the Peewee Bulldogs won bronze with 3 straight round robin wins -
5 - 3 over New Westminster, 4 - 3 over Burnaby and 4 - 2 over Semiamhoo
The team then lost a tight semi-final against Coquitlam, 5 - 4 in Double OT before meeting and defeating Semiahmoo again in the bronze medal game 5 - 4, another overtime Thriller.
Congrat's to the team for a great season!
And one more Minor Hockey Update - currently, the AVMHA Novice Devils are playing at the Fuller Lake Tournament - they opened up the tourney yesterday with a 6 to 4 win over the Lake Cowichan Lakers and then followed that up with a 9-7 win over the Victoria IceHawks.
The Van Isle Ford Midget Bulldogs advanced to the BC Championship semi-final with a 3-1 win in their game against Williams Lake on Tuesday. The victory means that Alberni Valley finished the round robin with 5 points, to stay on top of pool A, the same as Surrey.
The teams played so close that the tie breaker came down to a coin toss which put the Bulldogs first in the pool. They will play Cranbrook, the second place team from pool B in the semi-final Wednesday morning.
The Bulldogs last played Williams Lake at a tournament in January and lost by one goal. This time they were seasoned by play-off action and ready for anything. The teams tested each other for weakness, with Williams Lake trying to use their size to intimidate the smaller Alberni players. The game went end to end with no score for the first 30 minutes, before Williams Lake found an opening on a power play. It was beginning to look as if nothing Alberni threw at the goalie would get by until Brady Janzen passed cross crease for Colby Lim to score on the open side and even it up with 33 seconds left in the second period.
The momentum swung to the Bulldogs in the third period. At 11:20 Lim passed out to Janzen to finish and two minutes later Janzen set up his other line mate, Carson McCulloch, to score from down low on the left side. Suddenly it was a 3-1 advantage to Alberni. Williams Lake had little to lose and started hitting at every opportunity, which drew 20 minutes in penalties in the last ten minutes of the game. The Bulldogs did a good job of maintaining discipline and locked in the victory.
The Bulldogs are scheduled to play their semi-final game at 8 AM today against Cranbrook, and are guaranteed a berth in one of the medal games later in the day.
Thanks as always to Simon Read for the updates, and thanks as well to Dave Cusson for the picture. Get updates on the Semi Final today by checking the blog or by listening live to 93.3 The Peak FM
Alberni Valley Bulldogs make organizational changes
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs announced a number of structural changes to their organization today. The changes are being implemented to improve the team’s performance within both hockey operations and business operations.
Effective immediately, the General Manager position has been eliminated from the organization and Paul Esdale will assume the duties of Head Coach and Assistant Director of Hockey Operations.
“This move will allow Paul to focus on the athletes and hockey department completely,” stated Andy Oakes, President.
A Director of Hockey Operations position has been created to oversee the hockey department on a daily basis. This position is yet to be filled by a candidate that has a very strong hockey background, which will lead and grow the hockey department.
A Director of Business Operations position has been created to oversee the day-to-day business operations in the community. The ideal candidate will be a local person who can dedicate their business experience to the growth of the company’s business operations.
The changes have affected the Assistant Coach role, which will become a seasonal position similar to many other teams in the BCHL.
“These changes have been implemented to strengthen the organization on both sides of the business,” stated Oakes. “This allows two senior people to operate the company at a local level rather than from afar. This will translate into a more stabilized situation for all aspects of the business within the Bulldogs organization.”
Interested candidates for the Director of Hockey Operations, Director of Business Operations and Assistant Coach are encouraged to send their resume to the attention of Andy Oakes at andyoakes@hockeyschools.com or via fax to (250) 492-9222.
The Van Isle Ford Midget Bulldogs came out flying and dominated most of the first period play against New Westminster in their second round robin game. Coach Brent Demerais said, “They were firing on all cylinders today. …and like a dog with a bone, once they had the lead, they weren’t going to let go.”
The first goal came at 8:43. Colby Lim slapped a shot in from the slot through a sea of bodies. Brady Janzen assisted. With 4:11 left, Janzen rushed in with the puck, Lim picked it up and Carson McCulloch finished it off. Then in the last minute, it was Lim finding the mark from the left circle, this time assisted by Janzen and Cory Beecroft to end the first period with a 3-0 lead.
Penalties took away some momentum in the second period, but the penalty kill and goalie Bryce Dirocco went 7 for 7 in this game, including successfully defending a 5 on 3. New Westminster scored late in the period to make it 3-1.
New Westminster stepped it up in the third, but the Bulldogs were up to the challenge. They matched the physical play of New Westminster, but stayed disciplined and this period it was New Westminster that took most of the penalties and could not sustain momentum. Alberni capitalized on the man advantage with 9:22 left. Janzen and McCulloch broke out with Lim who took the puck from the neutral zone outside two defenders then cut in past the third to score. It took strong team defence to hold off New Westminster for the 4-1 final.
The win has Alberni Valley and Surrey on top of the standings in pool A with one game each left Tuesday, Port Alberni versus Williams Lake and Surrey versus New Westminster. Cranbrook and Salmon Arm are on top of pool B. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the semi-finals on Wednesday.
MEN’S CLUB OPENING DAY NEXT SUNDAY
On Sunday March 27th, opening day starts off with the Duncan, Sabine,
Collyer, Partners Accountants four man best ball, with the best net and best gross counting on each hole, Please register in the Pro. Shop with your own foursome or as a single and you will be placed on a team. The shotgun start takes place at 9AM following a short meeting. Try to be in the clubhouse no later than 8:30. Breakfast will be available starting at 7:30, on the opening and closing days only. There are 13 special events spread through the season., which as usual cost $10 to enter, this is to cover prizes for the day. This year there are some optional events which cost $5 to enter, they will be held on the open days.
As in the past couple of years the Men’s Club dues are only $10, which entitles you to some awesome draws on the windup day as well as throughout the season. For every Sunday you play, event or open day your name goes in that many times for a draw to be held on October 2nd. We have some new score cards, to be used by the Men's Club only on Sunday mornings. A big thank you to Houle Printing Inc. for their generous donation of the score cards.
The Club Championship will be match play again this year with Club Captain Fred Fredrickson and Head Pro Bruce MacDonald running things. Hopefully Jeff Dagg will be around to defend his title. Qualifying for the Championship
takes place on July, 10th, so keep that day open.
Just a couple of reminders Gentlemen. When you come into the Clubhouse on Sunday mornings there will be three boxes set up, one for the ball sweep, one for the money pot and one for the Charity closest to the pin. You must put $2 in each box and register your name before teeing off if you intend on entering. The Charity closest to the pin is usually set up on #2, if you haven’t paid your two dollars please don’t write your name on the card no matter how close you are. Please make sure that you fill out your score cards correctly, last name, gross score handi-cap and your net score. Also make sure the addition is right, any incorrect score cards turned in will be disqualified.
Remember to keep up to the group ahead of you, it makes for a smoother round for everyone.
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Final comments regarding Kevin Hasselberg moving on. I received an email yesterday inquiring if I knew what was happening with Kevin and family, as I made it sound like they were moving....Just to be 100% clear - I have no idea what Kevin's plans are. I apologize for making it sound like Kevin and family are moving. In my defense, I assumed with Kevin being done with the Dogs, and with the Dogs being the only Junior team in town, that his pursuit of the puck would take him elsewhere. As momma said, assuming makes an ____ out of you and me! You just never know how things will work out.
The Van Isle Ford Midget Bulldogs drew 2010 defending champions Surrey for their first game on Sunday March 20 and battled to a 4-4 tie. The coaches were mostly pleased with the game, but added that, “The good news is (the Bulldogs) can play even better.”
The Bulldogs came out tight and gave up a goal in the first minute. The momentum stayed with Surrey for most of the period. Finally, Colby Lim took the puck in front of the Surrey goal and passed back to Nathan Read on right point. Read one timed a blistering shot to the top corner to even the score at 1-1. Carson McCulloch and Brady Janzen also assisted.
The Bulldogs were stronger in the second period but did not score in spite of some good chances. Surrey scored on a power play at the five minute mark and then again with seven minutes left to make it 3-1. The Bulldogs stepped it up late in the period. With 4 seconds left, Bryan Read jumped up into the slot to receive a pass from Lim which he hammered under the goalie, narrowing the gap to one.
Surrey went up by two again at 11:21 of the third period and appeared confident of winning. But the Bulldogs were determined not to lose and dug deeper. At 6:02, playing 4 on 4, Lim captured a loose puck near centre, beat the last defenceman, then beat the goalie high stick side to make it 3-4. Surrey attempted to slow down the game, but Alberni Valley kept the pressure on. After multiple shots, and rebounds controlled by the Bulldogs, Janzen received the puck from Lim and banged it in to tie the game at 4-4. That score held as the final.
Alberni Valley is playing in a pool with Surrey, Williams Lake and New Westminster. All four teams are ranked by Hockey Now above the five in the other pool. All four tied their first games, so the rest of the championship promises more intensely competitive hockey. Kamloops and Salmon Arm also tied their game Sunday morning.
Thanks to Simon Read for sending in the update, much appreciated.
Also big thanks to Tom McEvay for this update on former Bulldogs playing in various levels of Pro Hockey
Some updates on Bulldog alumni playing pro .....
After a stellar 4 years at U Mass Lowell Maury Edwards signed this week with Providence of the AHL. Maury graduates from UMass Lowell this year. Below is a link from UMass Lowell ....
http://www.goriverhawks.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/031011aab.html
In another signing this week after four years at Providence College Jordan Kremyr signed with the Alaska Aces of the ECHL. Jordan graduates from Providence College this year.
In other alumni news Harry Zolnierzyck scored his first two pro goals this week for Adirondack of the AHL. He got his first goal and was third star on Wednesday and then last night in his home town of Toronto with many family and friends in attendance Harry scored the game winner and was first star in Adirondack's 3-1 win over the Marlies. Harry signed an NHL/AHL contract less than two weeks ago with Philly and Adirondack after 4 years at Brown University, the last as their captain.
Alumni Brian Stewart continues to lead the Bakersfield Condors of the ECHL as he was a star in three recent wins. He is 16 and 4 as their starting goalie since joining Bakersfield. Brian graduated from Northern Michigan University last year.
Earlier in the week alumni and former captain Devin Timberlake scored his first goal since being traded to Gwinnett of the ECHL from Reading. Devin graduated from Brown University last year after being their captain for two years.
Alumni Doug Krantz is playing for the Ontario Reign of the ECHL. Doug graduated from Cornell University in 2008. He left the Bulldogs in 2004.
Alumni Joe Scali is playing for the Laredo Bucks of the Central Hockey League this season. Joe graduated from Cornell University last year after being recruited out of the Bulldogs in 2006.
Alumni Josh Bonar had an outstanding season of pro hockey in Hungary this year where he played in Miskolc. Josh lead his team and was high in the league in points.
Take care.
Tom
Tom McEvay
Educational Advisor
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
This one doesn't deserve much discussion.....See ya Mr. Cooke. What are your guesses for the impending suspension? 4, 6, 8 or 10 games? Less, more?
I apologize for not having any further comments on the Press Release sent out by the Dogs on Friday regarding Kevin Hasselberg moving on....I have been moving over the last week and the weekend was literally around the clock moving, painting, sanding, etc, from Friday until last night. I just didn't have the time to wade into it all. First and foremost, I was sad to hear the news, like I am any time anyone leaves the organization and most likely, the community. If you work in conjunction with anyone for any length of time - better yet an entire season, that person becomes a friend, a familiar face, someone you have some passionate discussions with and some mundane ones with. Kevin and his family were actively involved in Minor Hockey with two kids involved - the local hockey scene will no doubt miss them. It's not easy to move a family and it's not easy on the kids or the parents. As I said in the beginning, I was sad to hear the news that things didn't work out here.
When Kevin was hired here I thought it would be an interesting dynamic with a rookie Head Coach being complemented by a 10 year Junior A veteran Coach, and I was curious as to how the Coaches work work together. This is by no means a criticism of Ownership and Management. I thought it would either be sink or swim outcome. It would either be a great set up, or a tough go of things, with a Rookie Head Coach being Assisted by someone with lots of experience. The proof is in the pudding in regards to how it worked with the Press Release sent out Friday. It is always funny how things work out. There was plenty of negative comments from the fan base on the hiring of a Rookie Head Coach in Nolan Graham - yet in the end it led to the best season in Franchise History. When Paul Esdale was hired when Nolan moved on, the prevailing sentiment was that it was a good decision to keep some stability and keep the momentum going forward from LAST year. Now it seems that from the collection of comments that he is the bad guy...Paul had a tough year from the word GO with Mark MacMillan requesting to play at home, with Jordan Grant not reporting, with Ryan Green not reporting, etc etc etc. And that was all before the season even STARTED. For all the trials and tribulations of the year, I saw many positive things out of the team in 2010-2011, and I am optimistic of great things to come next season.
I firmly believe that Paul Esdale is a good coach and I believe good things are ahead for the team now that he has his rookie year behind him and with how motivated he is to ice a winner in 2011-2012.
At the same time, I firmly believe Kevin Hasselberg is a good coach, and a good guy, and I wish him and his family all the best in the future and I hope he finds another opportunity to be involved in the game in short order.
It is all a part of the business that I certainly don't enjoy, but this is first and foremost a business, it ain't Minor Hockey.
If you have things to get of your chest, I encourage you to contact the team personally to let them know your opinion while standing behind your words in the process, as opposed to using the blog to anonymously vent.
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs organization announced today that Kevin Hasselberg will not be returning for the 2011 – 2012 season as Assistant Coach / Assistant General Manager. Kevin will be pursuing other coaching opportunities for the upcoming season while the Bulldogs will be starting their search for a new Assistant Coach immediately.
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs would like to thank Kevin and his family for their efforts over the past year in the community and organization.
Alberni Valley Bulldogs Hockey Club
3737 Roger Street
Port Alberni, B.C., Canada, V9Y 8E3
Phone: 250-723-4412 Fax: 250-723-4452
www.albernivalleybulldogs.ca
Thanks to Jamie, Steve and Theresa for all giving me a heads up on Harry Zolnierczyk scoring his first pro goal last night with the Adirondack Phantoms of the AHL last night. Harry was a +2 while being named third star of the game. Read more from the Phantom's site here
Some Kidsport news - thanks to Ron for sending this along...
Here is a photo of an on ice presentation made at the March 1st Bulldogs playoff game. It represents the amount raised for KidSport Port Alberni through the Alberni Valley Bulldogs Shoot & Score program this season. During the 2010/11 season, program sponsors Alberni Chrysler and Alberni Toyota contributed $10 for every home goal scored by the Bulldogs hockey Club. Including playoffs, the total amount raised for KidSport Port Alberni was $1070.00.
These funds will help pay sports registration fees for local athletes - "So All Kids Can Play!"
In the photo: (L) Ron Doetzel (KidSport PA); (C) Jim Pelk (Alberni Toyota & Alberni Chrysler) ; (R) Dean Williams (KidSport PA)
Don't forget that the Van Isle Ford Midget Rep Bulldogs are off to Salmon Arm for Provincials this weekend...they have been working hard at raising funds for the last couple of weeks - if you can help in any way, call Al McCulloch at 250-720-3671....Go Dogs!
Cool stuff here from the OHA......
Invitational Goaltender Development Camp
Okanagan Hockey School announced a new summer development camp for goaltenders today.
The Okanagan Hockey School Goaltender Development Camp is a licensed Hockey Canada program, operated by the Okanagan Hockey School in partnership with Vaughn Goaltending.
"Hockey Canada is very excited to work along side the Okanagan Hockey School, a leader in Canadian Hockey Schools, and Vaughn Goaltending a world leader in custom goaltending equipment", says Paul Carson, Vice President Development with Hockey Canada. "Through this partnership we believe we have put together outstanding development opportunities for young goaltenders who want to reach for new heights in their game".
The camp, which will run from July 5-9, 2011 in Penticton, BC, is available by invite only, intended for the country's most promising young goaltenders aged 11-17.
"We are excited about bringing together Canada's goaltending community with this new initiative to take goaltending development in this country to a new level", added Scott Carter President of Vaughn Canada.
The program instructors will include Andy Moog, Clint Malarchuk and Kim Dillabough:
Andy Moog - Three time Stanley Cup Champion. Played 18 years in the NHL with over 700 regular season games. In 1994, Andy was only the 10th goalies to record 300 career wins. He was inducted in to the BC Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003.
Clint Malarchuk - Played 10 years in the NHL with over 300 regular season games played. Clint has worked as a goaltending consultant since 2002, working with the Florida Panthers, Columbus Blue Jackets and currently with the Atlanta Thrashers
Kim Dillabough - A former WHL goaltender that played with the Tacoma Rockets and then with the team when they relocated to Kelowna. Kim is currently an Assistant Coach for the WHL Kelowna Rockets, as well he is a goaltender consultant for the Los Angeles Kings.
"This is a tremendous opportunity for a select group of goaltenders from within the province to learn from three of the most well respected names in the business" says Andy Oakes, President of Okanagan Hockey School. "It is always a pleasure to work with Hockey Canada and we are thrilled to be partnering with a world class business such as Vaughn Goaltending for this camp."
A licensed Hockey Canada Goaltender Development Camp
