Team Blue defeated Team White 6-5 in a Shoot-Out. Much more intensity, & physical play in tonights game compared to Training Camp. Two fights between Trent Dorias & Jeremy Wiebe & then Dallas Goodrunning & Richard Jodoin.
Here are the team rosters,
Team White:
Cody Ikkala
Doug Orr
Steve Tresierra
Nick Aimes
Adam Thompson
Mike Wiest
Bryan Elser
Dallas Goodrunning
Connor Jones
John Digness
Cory Kane
Cole Gibson
Trent Dorias
Sahir Gill
Rob Short
Colton Donselaar
Layne Stopansky
Jesse Halikas
Anthony Manfredi
Jared Andersen
Andrew Hammond
Team Blue:
Kyle Bigos
Steven Weinstein
Kevin Kraus
Jared Hidber
Christian Foster
Darren Tarasoff
Jeremy Wiebe
Sawyer Mick
Mike Collins
Chris Crowell
Braden Pimm
Brett Switzer
Ryan Santana
Jared Sweet
Cole Ikkala
Brooks Christensen
Kory Roy
Curtis Summerfelt
Richard Jodoin
Ryan Farghar
PJ Musico
Here are the players who I thought stood out,
Doug Orr is a big D-man who plays his position well. Very smooth skater.
Trent Dorias (1 Goal) (1 fight) Looked very impressive. Played with alot of emotion, skated hard and was showing alot of hustle.
Anthony Manfredi played well, made two huge saves. Very quick on his feet.
Kevin Kraus looks like he has put on some size. Played very well on the blueline. Played with an edge, getting in guys faces. Tried dropping the gloves with a few players. Looked very good with the puck at both ends of the rink. Skated well all game.
Mike Collins (1 Goal & 2 Assists) Played very good. I have liked this kid all camp. Has some size, looks like he can put the puck in the net, always buzzing around the net. Good hands in close.
Braden Pimm (2 Goals) Looked very good tonight. Always around the goal.Cole Ikkala has some size, and looks pretty good. The younger brother of Viper Cody.
Ryan Farghar allowed 3 Goals but played well. I have been very impressed all camp with this Goaltender. Looks very confident between the pipes. Handles the puck well, plays his position well.
PJ Musico This was the first time I have got to watch this kid. Very good down low, quick and looks confident. Looked very strong in the 3rd & during the Shhot-Out. Could challenge for the backup job.
Bryan Elser looked good at times. Got involved into the rush a few times. A bigger D-man who can skate and handle the puck well. Just hasnt played a full game, has showen signs of some talent.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Vipers Blue & White Game:
August 23 2008 at 5:22 PM
This is on the Vipers website:
The Vernon Vipers are please to announce that the annual Blue and White inter-squad games is set for Saturday, August 23rd at 7PM. The game will be held at the Wesbild Centre. The cost of admission to the game will be $2. This will be a great chance for Viper fans to see the 2008/2009 Viper hopefuls compete against each other for a spot on the team. The game will be of regular length and will be treated as any other exhibition game. Don’t miss your chance to come out and cheer on your future Vipers.
This is on the Vipers website:
The Vernon Vipers are please to announce that the annual Blue and White inter-squad games is set for Saturday, August 23rd at 7PM. The game will be held at the Wesbild Centre. The cost of admission to the game will be $2. This will be a great chance for Viper fans to see the 2008/2009 Viper hopefuls compete against each other for a spot on the team. The game will be of regular length and will be treated as any other exhibition game. Don’t miss your chance to come out and cheer on your future Vipers.
McGroarty Re-Signs With Lincoln:
August 17 2008 at 12:34 PM
This is on the USHL website:
July 29, 2008
Lincoln Stars head coach & former Vernon Laker, Jimmy McGroarty signed a three-year contract extension after going 31-22-7 in his first season.McGroarty Signs Three-Year Extension With LincolnThe Lincoln Stars have announced that an agreement has been reached with head coach Jimmy McGroarty that will keep him with the organization through the 2010-11 season. McGroarty, who was named head coach and general manager in July 2007, guided the team to a 31-22-7 regular season record before being eliminated in the second round of the USHL Playoffs by the eventual champions, the Omaha Lancers. In his first season, McGroarty was also a finalist for the USHL General Manager of the Year Award."Over the past season, Jimmy's proven himself to be one of North America's finest young coaches, and capable of handling the pressures of being a head coach in the USHL," said Stars President Jim Pflug. "He's quickly earned the respect of coaches,
players and fans, and is deserving of a strong commitment from the Stars organization. We're excited about our future with Jimmy at the helm.""The players and fans made my first year as Head Coach/General Manager a very enjoyable experience," said McGroarty. "It's an honor for me to be associated with the Stars organization and the fans that support us through the ups and downs of a season. I'm looking forward to this upcoming season as we have another great group of talented young men that will make the Ice Box an exciting place with the greatest fans in the USHL. My family and I are proud to call Lincoln home."The USHL is America's only Tier I league and the premier path for developing players in America. The 2008-09 season is fast approaching, and will get underway with the 2008 USHL Fall Classic, to be held September 25-27 in Sioux City. For more information on the USHL and its member teams, visit us on the web at www.ushl.com.
This is on the USHL website:
July 29, 2008
Lincoln Stars head coach & former Vernon Laker, Jimmy McGroarty signed a three-year contract extension after going 31-22-7 in his first season.McGroarty Signs Three-Year Extension With LincolnThe Lincoln Stars have announced that an agreement has been reached with head coach Jimmy McGroarty that will keep him with the organization through the 2010-11 season. McGroarty, who was named head coach and general manager in July 2007, guided the team to a 31-22-7 regular season record before being eliminated in the second round of the USHL Playoffs by the eventual champions, the Omaha Lancers. In his first season, McGroarty was also a finalist for the USHL General Manager of the Year Award."Over the past season, Jimmy's proven himself to be one of North America's finest young coaches, and capable of handling the pressures of being a head coach in the USHL," said Stars President Jim Pflug. "He's quickly earned the respect of coaches,
players and fans, and is deserving of a strong commitment from the Stars organization. We're excited about our future with Jimmy at the helm.""The players and fans made my first year as Head Coach/General Manager a very enjoyable experience," said McGroarty. "It's an honor for me to be associated with the Stars organization and the fans that support us through the ups and downs of a season. I'm looking forward to this upcoming season as we have another great group of talented young men that will make the Ice Box an exciting place with the greatest fans in the USHL. My family and I are proud to call Lincoln home."The USHL is America's only Tier I league and the premier path for developing players in America. The 2008-09 season is fast approaching, and will get underway with the 2008 USHL Fall Classic, to be held September 25-27 in Sioux City. For more information on the USHL and its member teams, visit us on the web at www.ushl.com.
Everything Quiet In Viperland:
August 17 2008 at 9:13 AM
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
As far as off seasons go, life in Viperland has been about as quiet as it gets. While other B.C. Hockey League teams have been wheeling and dealing, the Vernon Vipers have flown below the radar. Their three commitments-to Midget defenceman Adam Thompson & forward Barry Switzer of the Calgary Buffaloes, and to Steven Weinstein of the Los Angeles Selects were announced in the spring, and since then, not a peep. While this lack of news might be driving the Viper faithful crazy with anxiety, there is a sound theory behind head coach Mark Ferner's approach. While some teams have made the majority of their commitments, and all but inked in their starting rosters, Ferner is intent on watching the 75 invites (including 15 returning players and eight goalies) battle for spots at the Viper's main camp, wich starts Tuesday at Wesbild Centre. "We've convinced players to come out and make our hockey team," said Ferner. "I have to be loyal to those players that were here last year, but if we have a player that comes in and does better, we have to do the right thing. We're going to put the best team on the ice, regardless of where they came from, or where they played last year. "There are going to be some veterans on our team that'll get pushed really hard, wich is what camps should be about. We want it to be a very competetive training camp." Fans will get the chance to see the Viper hopefuls at the annual Blue and White intra-squad game Saturday night (7pm) at the Wesbild Centre. Admission is $2. The Snakes will then play a pair of exibition games against the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The first one goes Saturday, Aug. 30 at the Sunwave Centre, and the other goes Sunday, Aug. 31 at the Revekstoke Forum.Ferner learned a lesson from last years camp when the Vipers invited just 40 players. "We didnt have enough players to fill a 23-man roster," said Ferner, adding some of those 40 players wern't even eligible to play in the BCHL. "We took a different approach this year because we don't want to get caught in the same situation." With netminder Lucas Gore expected to make another bid to play with the Chilliwack Bruins, Andrew Hammond, 20, who was picked up from the Surrey Eagles at last season's trade deadline, will look to cement his starter status. He went 21-17-1 with a 3.19 GAA and .899 save percentage. Hammond could be pressed by Anthony Manfredi (14-4-1) of the Kamlopps Storm, whose 2.28 GAA led the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League. Ryan Faragher (13-17-2), who posted a 3.71 GAA. and .896 save percentage with the Fort Frances Junior Sabres of the Superior International Junior Hockey League, will also be in the hunt for a roster spot.With the loss of Viper grad Hunter Bishop (scholarship with the Ohio State Buckeyes), who led the Snakes with 57 goals and 40 assists in 60 games, his former linemates, twins Connor and Kellen Jones, who turned 18 on Saturday, will be looked to fill the offensive void. However, Kellen broke his collar bone when he took a foul tip while catching for the Trail Jays of the American Legion Baseball League. According to Ferner, Kellen will likely take it easy at training camp (if he skates at all), but anticipates him being ready for the regular season.Other notable returning forwards include Braden Pimm, Rob Short, Chris Crowell, John Digness and Dallas Goodrunning. Forward Ryan Santana, who split last season between the Des Moines Buccaneers of the U.S. Hockey League and Fairbanks Ice Dogs of the North American Hockey League, will look to lock up one of the Viper's 20-year old cards. Kyle Bigos, who devoted his summer to an off-season training program (he's walking into camp 20 pounds lighter than last year), Kevin Kraus, Cody Ikkala, Justin Palazzo and Steve Tresierra will look to retain their positions on the blueline.
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
As far as off seasons go, life in Viperland has been about as quiet as it gets. While other B.C. Hockey League teams have been wheeling and dealing, the Vernon Vipers have flown below the radar. Their three commitments-to Midget defenceman Adam Thompson & forward Barry Switzer of the Calgary Buffaloes, and to Steven Weinstein of the Los Angeles Selects were announced in the spring, and since then, not a peep. While this lack of news might be driving the Viper faithful crazy with anxiety, there is a sound theory behind head coach Mark Ferner's approach. While some teams have made the majority of their commitments, and all but inked in their starting rosters, Ferner is intent on watching the 75 invites (including 15 returning players and eight goalies) battle for spots at the Viper's main camp, wich starts Tuesday at Wesbild Centre. "We've convinced players to come out and make our hockey team," said Ferner. "I have to be loyal to those players that were here last year, but if we have a player that comes in and does better, we have to do the right thing. We're going to put the best team on the ice, regardless of where they came from, or where they played last year. "There are going to be some veterans on our team that'll get pushed really hard, wich is what camps should be about. We want it to be a very competetive training camp." Fans will get the chance to see the Viper hopefuls at the annual Blue and White intra-squad game Saturday night (7pm) at the Wesbild Centre. Admission is $2. The Snakes will then play a pair of exibition games against the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The first one goes Saturday, Aug. 30 at the Sunwave Centre, and the other goes Sunday, Aug. 31 at the Revekstoke Forum.Ferner learned a lesson from last years camp when the Vipers invited just 40 players. "We didnt have enough players to fill a 23-man roster," said Ferner, adding some of those 40 players wern't even eligible to play in the BCHL. "We took a different approach this year because we don't want to get caught in the same situation." With netminder Lucas Gore expected to make another bid to play with the Chilliwack Bruins, Andrew Hammond, 20, who was picked up from the Surrey Eagles at last season's trade deadline, will look to cement his starter status. He went 21-17-1 with a 3.19 GAA and .899 save percentage. Hammond could be pressed by Anthony Manfredi (14-4-1) of the Kamlopps Storm, whose 2.28 GAA led the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League. Ryan Faragher (13-17-2), who posted a 3.71 GAA. and .896 save percentage with the Fort Frances Junior Sabres of the Superior International Junior Hockey League, will also be in the hunt for a roster spot.With the loss of Viper grad Hunter Bishop (scholarship with the Ohio State Buckeyes), who led the Snakes with 57 goals and 40 assists in 60 games, his former linemates, twins Connor and Kellen Jones, who turned 18 on Saturday, will be looked to fill the offensive void. However, Kellen broke his collar bone when he took a foul tip while catching for the Trail Jays of the American Legion Baseball League. According to Ferner, Kellen will likely take it easy at training camp (if he skates at all), but anticipates him being ready for the regular season.Other notable returning forwards include Braden Pimm, Rob Short, Chris Crowell, John Digness and Dallas Goodrunning. Forward Ryan Santana, who split last season between the Des Moines Buccaneers of the U.S. Hockey League and Fairbanks Ice Dogs of the North American Hockey League, will look to lock up one of the Viper's 20-year old cards. Kyle Bigos, who devoted his summer to an off-season training program (he's walking into camp 20 pounds lighter than last year), Kevin Kraus, Cody Ikkala, Justin Palazzo and Steve Tresierra will look to retain their positions on the blueline.
Beller Commits To University Of Manitoba:
July 17 2008 at 6:37 PM
This is on the Vipers website:
Beller committs, puts season total up to 11!
by viper staff Added 2008-07-17
20 year old forward Greg Beller has committed to play next season for the University of Manitoba Bisons. Beller came to the Vipers just before Christmas last season from Yale University. The Rangers draft pick scored 20 points in 23 regular season games and was a force in the playoffs. The Vernon Vipers would like to congratulate Greg and wish him good luck next season. With this latest commitment, all of the Vipers graduating players have secured a team for the upcoming season. This puts the season total of post secondary scholarships up to 11. Congratulations to all players. Hunter Bishop Ohio State University Scott Zurevinski Quinnipiac University Isaac Smeltzer Brock University Travis Brisebois University of Saskatchewan Bryce Christianson University of Alaska (Anchorage) Ryan Kakoske University of British Columbia Evan Witt Michigan Tech (Now playing with Alberni) Connor Jones Quinnipiac University Kellen Jones Quinnipiac University Kyle Bigos Merrimack College Greg Beller University of Manitoba
This is on the Vipers website:
Beller committs, puts season total up to 11!
by viper staff Added 2008-07-17
20 year old forward Greg Beller has committed to play next season for the University of Manitoba Bisons. Beller came to the Vipers just before Christmas last season from Yale University. The Rangers draft pick scored 20 points in 23 regular season games and was a force in the playoffs. The Vernon Vipers would like to congratulate Greg and wish him good luck next season. With this latest commitment, all of the Vipers graduating players have secured a team for the upcoming season. This puts the season total of post secondary scholarships up to 11. Congratulations to all players. Hunter Bishop Ohio State University Scott Zurevinski Quinnipiac University Isaac Smeltzer Brock University Travis Brisebois University of Saskatchewan Bryce Christianson University of Alaska (Anchorage) Ryan Kakoske University of British Columbia Evan Witt Michigan Tech (Now playing with Alberni) Connor Jones Quinnipiac University Kellen Jones Quinnipiac University Kyle Bigos Merrimack College Greg Beller University of Manitoba
Bigos Gets Scholarship:
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:Thunderbirds welcome Kakoske to UBC By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning StarPublished: July 10, 2008 6:00 PMWhen Ryan Kakoske was first called up to the Vernon Vipers as an 18-year-old affiliate in the 2005-06 season, current captain Chris Crowell remembers wondering whether he would ever fit the mold of a B.C. Hockey League defenceman.After three years of playing alongside Kakoske and witnessing his transformation into a rock-steady blueliner, there’s no doubt in Crowell’s mind.“He’s gone from barely being able to hold his own in junior hockey to becoming our most reliable defenceman,” said Crowell. “It’s not a fluke to see how he progressed, it was through hard work. There’s not a lot of flash, but he’s a strong, shutdown defenceman, and he’s a great guy to play with.”The Vipers started last season with a rookie-laden blueline, and if it weren’t for Kakoske’s veteran presence, opposing teams would have had an easy time picking the Snakes apart.Kakoske’s no-nonsense style grabbed the attention of the UBC Thunderbirds head coach Milan Dragicevic, who offered the 6-foot-2, 200-pound Vernon minor hockey product a scholarship to play with them this fall.“We are happy to add Ryan to our team at UBC,” said Dragicevic. “He will bring character, size and a winning attitude to our team. Anytime you can add a player of Ryan’s stature, it makes your team that much tougher to play against.”Added Crowell: “It’s good to see him get something. With UBC’s hockey program, their academics, the Olympics coming to Vancouver… it’s a good decision.”In 60 games last season, Kakoske fired two goals and supplied 16 helpers with 64 penalty minutes. He recorded 27 points and 132 PIM in 151 BCHL games.He played in all situations and did many little things that often don’t show up on the score sheet. When Crowell had to miss games due to a suspension, Kakoske was the logical choice to wear the ‘C’.Kakoske recently received the Mark Nelson Memorial Award, which is annually presented to a local athlete who shows perseverence and excellence.“Marty Stein (Detroit Red Wings scout) got my name out there for them (UBC) to see,” said Kakoske, who visited the UBC campus in May before reaching his decision last month. “In the end, I felt the quality if hockey was better in the CIS than NCAA Division 3, and there aren’t many schools better than UBC academically.“I’m looking forward to testing myself against the Western (Hockey) League guys.”There’ll be at least one familiar face on the T-Birds’ roster since his cousin, Jordan Inglis of 100 Mile Ranch, will play with UBC. Inglis, who played for Prince George Spruce Kings and Cowichan Valley Capitals of the BCHL, played with the Wayne State University Warriors last season, but their hockey program folded.Kakoske, who will live in residence this fall, plans to start an economics program and then switch into business.Meanwhile, he’s spending the summer working as a landscaper and, as always, putting his time in at the gym. He’ll also be lending his defensive expertise to the next generation of would-be Vipers at Vernon minor hockey’s summer camps.
July 2 2008 at 12:06 PM
This is on the Vipers web site:Bigos gets scholarship by viper staff Added 2008-07-02The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce that Kyle Bigos has accepted a scholarship to Merrimack College for the 2010-2011 season. The 6'5 defenseman from California improved a lot this season winning the Vipers Most Improved Player award. He will be a huge part of the Vipers defense core for the upcoming two seasons. Merrimack College is located in North Andover, Mass. Just a short drive from downtown Boston. They play out of the storied Hockey East conference. The Vipers would like to congratulate Kyle on this accomplishment. It is well deserved.
July 4 2008, 7:18 PM
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Bigos gets scholarship
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star - July 03, 2008
Vernon Vipers’ defenceman Kyle Bigos has played hockey all over North America. He can add another destination to the list now he’s accepted a scholarship to play with the Merrimack College Warriors for the 2010-2011 season.In 58 B.C. Hockey League games last season, the Upland, Calif. import earned two goals and 15 assists while piling up 152 penalty minutes. As the season progressed, he learned to become an effective enforcer while providing a steady presence on the blueline. Bigos also worked diligently on his foot speed, often staying after practice with the other Viper d-men to take part in extra skating drills. The organization recognized his hard work by naming him Most Improved Player.“He worked hard at it, and he really improved,” said head coach Mark Ferner. “He’s such a big body, and he has a presence on the ice, but he’s also got good hands and vision. That’s not something you would normally see in a player of his size.”Bigos is also paying closer attention to conditioning this season. He struggled a bit coming into last year’s camp at around 250 pounds. With the help of a new off-season conditioning program, Bigos is working towards a six percent body fat index, which would put him at around 225 pounds.“I started cutting weight up there last year, and things became easier,” said Bigos, who turned 19 in May.Before coming to Vernon, Bigos played Midget AAA with the Notre Dame Hounds of Wilcox, Sask., so being away from home is nothing new to the big man. Although, he does admit to missing Mexican food while he’s away.“It’s nothing I can’t handle,” said Bigos. “I’ve been away for a while now, and it’s just another chance to play hockey and get more education.”The Warriors, who play Division 1 NCAA hockey out North Andover, Mass., just a short drive from downtown Boston, finished last in the Hockey East Conference with 6-18-3.“Knowing that it was a small, private Catholic school was a huge plus for me,” said Bigos.Added Ferner: “He had some offers from other schools, but Kyle felt this one was his best option.”With Viper defensive grads Ryan Kakoske and Isaac Smeltzer moving on, Bigos is looking forward to carrying more responsibility on his considerable shoulders. Ferner plans to play him more often and in all situations over the next two seasons.“Smeltzer and Kakoske were huge leaders for us on the backend, and I’m looking forward to stepping into that role this year,” said Bigos. “I’m looking forward to making a big impact on the D this year, and trying to take us to the RBC (Royal Bank Cup),” Bigos will return to Vernon at the end of July, where the Jones twins, Connor and Kellen, Braden Pimm and Rob Short will join him for some additional training before the Vipers’ main camp, which goes Aug. 19.
July 2 2008 at 12:06 PM
This is on the Vipers web site:Bigos gets scholarship by viper staff Added 2008-07-02The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce that Kyle Bigos has accepted a scholarship to Merrimack College for the 2010-2011 season. The 6'5 defenseman from California improved a lot this season winning the Vipers Most Improved Player award. He will be a huge part of the Vipers defense core for the upcoming two seasons. Merrimack College is located in North Andover, Mass. Just a short drive from downtown Boston. They play out of the storied Hockey East conference. The Vipers would like to congratulate Kyle on this accomplishment. It is well deserved.
July 4 2008, 7:18 PM
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Bigos gets scholarship
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star - July 03, 2008
Vernon Vipers’ defenceman Kyle Bigos has played hockey all over North America. He can add another destination to the list now he’s accepted a scholarship to play with the Merrimack College Warriors for the 2010-2011 season.In 58 B.C. Hockey League games last season, the Upland, Calif. import earned two goals and 15 assists while piling up 152 penalty minutes. As the season progressed, he learned to become an effective enforcer while providing a steady presence on the blueline. Bigos also worked diligently on his foot speed, often staying after practice with the other Viper d-men to take part in extra skating drills. The organization recognized his hard work by naming him Most Improved Player.“He worked hard at it, and he really improved,” said head coach Mark Ferner. “He’s such a big body, and he has a presence on the ice, but he’s also got good hands and vision. That’s not something you would normally see in a player of his size.”Bigos is also paying closer attention to conditioning this season. He struggled a bit coming into last year’s camp at around 250 pounds. With the help of a new off-season conditioning program, Bigos is working towards a six percent body fat index, which would put him at around 225 pounds.“I started cutting weight up there last year, and things became easier,” said Bigos, who turned 19 in May.Before coming to Vernon, Bigos played Midget AAA with the Notre Dame Hounds of Wilcox, Sask., so being away from home is nothing new to the big man. Although, he does admit to missing Mexican food while he’s away.“It’s nothing I can’t handle,” said Bigos. “I’ve been away for a while now, and it’s just another chance to play hockey and get more education.”The Warriors, who play Division 1 NCAA hockey out North Andover, Mass., just a short drive from downtown Boston, finished last in the Hockey East Conference with 6-18-3.“Knowing that it was a small, private Catholic school was a huge plus for me,” said Bigos.Added Ferner: “He had some offers from other schools, but Kyle felt this one was his best option.”With Viper defensive grads Ryan Kakoske and Isaac Smeltzer moving on, Bigos is looking forward to carrying more responsibility on his considerable shoulders. Ferner plans to play him more often and in all situations over the next two seasons.“Smeltzer and Kakoske were huge leaders for us on the backend, and I’m looking forward to stepping into that role this year,” said Bigos. “I’m looking forward to making a big impact on the D this year, and trying to take us to the RBC (Royal Bank Cup),” Bigos will return to Vernon at the end of July, where the Jones twins, Connor and Kellen, Braden Pimm and Rob Short will join him for some additional training before the Vipers’ main camp, which goes Aug. 19.
Bigos Commits To Merrimack:
July 2 2008 at 12:06 PM
This is on the Vipers web site:
Bigos gets scholarship by viper staff Added 2008-07-02
The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce that Kyle Bigos has accepted a scholarship to Merrimack College for the 2010-2011 season. The 6'5 defenseman from California improved a lot this season winning the Vipers Most Improved Player award. He will be a huge part of the Vipers defense core for the upcoming two seasons. Merrimack College is located in North Andover, Mass. Just a short drive from downtown Boston. They play out of the storied Hockey East conference. The Vipers would like to congratulate Kyle on this accomplishment. It is well deserved.
This is on the Vipers web site:
Bigos gets scholarship by viper staff Added 2008-07-02
The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce that Kyle Bigos has accepted a scholarship to Merrimack College for the 2010-2011 season. The 6'5 defenseman from California improved a lot this season winning the Vipers Most Improved Player award. He will be a huge part of the Vipers defense core for the upcoming two seasons. Merrimack College is located in North Andover, Mass. Just a short drive from downtown Boston. They play out of the storied Hockey East conference. The Vipers would like to congratulate Kyle on this accomplishment. It is well deserved.
Thunderbirds Welcome Kakoske To UBC:
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Thunderbirds welcome Kakoske to UBC
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star
Published: July 10, 2008 6:00 PM
When Ryan Kakoske was first called up to the Vernon Vipers as an 18-year-old affiliate in the 2005-06 season, current captain Chris Crowell remembers wondering whether he would ever fit the mold of a B.C. Hockey League defenceman.After three years of playing alongside Kakoske and witnessing his transformation into a rock-steady blueliner, there’s no doubt in Crowell’s mind.“He’s gone from barely being able to hold his own in junior hockey to becoming our most reliable defenceman,” said Crowell. “It’s not a fluke to see how he progressed, it was through hard work. There’s not a lot of flash, but he’s a strong, shutdown defenceman, and he’s a great guy to play with.”The Vipers started last season with a rookie-laden blueline, and if it weren’t for Kakoske’s veteran presence, opposing teams would have had an easy time picking the Snakes apart.Kakoske’s no-nonsense style grabbed the attention of the UBC Thunderbirds head coach Milan Dragicevic, who offered the 6-foot-2, 200-pound Vernon minor hockey product a scholarship to play with them this fall.“We are happy to add Ryan to our team at UBC,” said Dragicevic. “He will bring character, size and a winning attitude to our team. Anytime you can add a player of Ryan’s stature, it makes your team that much tougher to play against.”Added Crowell: “It’s good to see him get something. With UBC’s hockey program, their academics, the Olympics coming to Vancouver… it’s a good decision.”In 60 games last season, Kakoske fired two goals and supplied 16 helpers with 64 penalty minutes. He recorded 27 points and 132 PIM in 151 BCHL games.He played in all situations and did many little things that often don’t show up on the score sheet. When Crowell had to miss games due to a suspension, Kakoske was the logical choice to wear the ‘C’.Kakoske recently received the Mark Nelson Memorial Award, which is annually presented to a local athlete who shows perseverence and excellence.“Marty Stein (Detroit Red Wings scout) got my name out there for them (UBC) to see,” said Kakoske, who visited the UBC campus in May before reaching his decision last month. “In the end, I felt the quality if hockey was better in the CIS than NCAA Division 3, and there aren’t many schools better than UBC academically.“I’m looking forward to testing myself against the Western (Hockey) League guys.”There’ll be at least one familiar face on the T-Birds’ roster since his cousin, Jordan Inglis of 100 Mile Ranch, will play with UBC. Inglis, who played for Prince George Spruce Kings and Cowichan Valley Capitals of the BCHL, played with the Wayne State University Warriors last season, but their hockey program folded.Kakoske, who will live in residence this fall, plans to start an economics program and then switch into business.Meanwhile, he’s spending the summer working as a landscaper and, as always, putting his time in at the gym. He’ll also be lending his defensive expertise to the next generation of would-be Vipers at Vernon minor hockey’s summer camps.
Thunderbirds welcome Kakoske to UBC
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star
Published: July 10, 2008 6:00 PM
When Ryan Kakoske was first called up to the Vernon Vipers as an 18-year-old affiliate in the 2005-06 season, current captain Chris Crowell remembers wondering whether he would ever fit the mold of a B.C. Hockey League defenceman.After three years of playing alongside Kakoske and witnessing his transformation into a rock-steady blueliner, there’s no doubt in Crowell’s mind.“He’s gone from barely being able to hold his own in junior hockey to becoming our most reliable defenceman,” said Crowell. “It’s not a fluke to see how he progressed, it was through hard work. There’s not a lot of flash, but he’s a strong, shutdown defenceman, and he’s a great guy to play with.”The Vipers started last season with a rookie-laden blueline, and if it weren’t for Kakoske’s veteran presence, opposing teams would have had an easy time picking the Snakes apart.Kakoske’s no-nonsense style grabbed the attention of the UBC Thunderbirds head coach Milan Dragicevic, who offered the 6-foot-2, 200-pound Vernon minor hockey product a scholarship to play with them this fall.“We are happy to add Ryan to our team at UBC,” said Dragicevic. “He will bring character, size and a winning attitude to our team. Anytime you can add a player of Ryan’s stature, it makes your team that much tougher to play against.”Added Crowell: “It’s good to see him get something. With UBC’s hockey program, their academics, the Olympics coming to Vancouver… it’s a good decision.”In 60 games last season, Kakoske fired two goals and supplied 16 helpers with 64 penalty minutes. He recorded 27 points and 132 PIM in 151 BCHL games.He played in all situations and did many little things that often don’t show up on the score sheet. When Crowell had to miss games due to a suspension, Kakoske was the logical choice to wear the ‘C’.Kakoske recently received the Mark Nelson Memorial Award, which is annually presented to a local athlete who shows perseverence and excellence.“Marty Stein (Detroit Red Wings scout) got my name out there for them (UBC) to see,” said Kakoske, who visited the UBC campus in May before reaching his decision last month. “In the end, I felt the quality if hockey was better in the CIS than NCAA Division 3, and there aren’t many schools better than UBC academically.“I’m looking forward to testing myself against the Western (Hockey) League guys.”There’ll be at least one familiar face on the T-Birds’ roster since his cousin, Jordan Inglis of 100 Mile Ranch, will play with UBC. Inglis, who played for Prince George Spruce Kings and Cowichan Valley Capitals of the BCHL, played with the Wayne State University Warriors last season, but their hockey program folded.Kakoske, who will live in residence this fall, plans to start an economics program and then switch into business.Meanwhile, he’s spending the summer working as a landscaper and, as always, putting his time in at the gym. He’ll also be lending his defensive expertise to the next generation of would-be Vipers at Vernon minor hockey’s summer camps.
Kakoske Commits To UBC:
July 9 2008 at 12:00 PM
This is on the Vipers web site:
by viper staff Added 2008-07-09 Kakoske commits to UBC
The Vernon Vipers are very excited to announce that Ryan Kakoske has committed to play for the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds for the upcoming season. The local product had an exceptional year for the Vipers and is very deserving of this scholarship. Ryan played in all situations for the team and when regular captain Chris Crowell had to miss games, Kakoske filled in. He was one of the Vipers most consistent performers doing many important things which often don’t show up on the score sheet. Kakoske also received the Mark Nelson Memorial Award this past weekend. This award is given annually to a local athlete who perseveres and excels. The award was presented by Brent Gilchrist and Nelson’s brother-in-law Brent Fairweather. The Vernon Vipers would like to congratulate Ryan on both honours.
This is on the Vipers web site:
by viper staff Added 2008-07-09 Kakoske commits to UBC
The Vernon Vipers are very excited to announce that Ryan Kakoske has committed to play for the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds for the upcoming season. The local product had an exceptional year for the Vipers and is very deserving of this scholarship. Ryan played in all situations for the team and when regular captain Chris Crowell had to miss games, Kakoske filled in. He was one of the Vipers most consistent performers doing many important things which often don’t show up on the score sheet. Kakoske also received the Mark Nelson Memorial Award this past weekend. This award is given annually to a local athlete who perseveres and excels. The award was presented by Brent Gilchrist and Nelson’s brother-in-law Brent Fairweather. The Vernon Vipers would like to congratulate Ryan on both honours.
O'Hara Named Nipawin New Head Coach:
July 13 2008 at 11:23 PM
This was in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Former Vernon Vipers Assistant Coach Colin O'Hara was named the new Head Coach-GM of the Nipawin Hawks of the Saskachewan Junior Hockey League. O'Hara who was named WHA Coach of the year honours with the Lumby Fighting Saints before joining the Vipers last season, also held posts as an Assistant Coach-GM with the BCHL Quesnel Millionaires, and Assistant Coach with the La Ronge Ice Wolves of the SJHL.
This was in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Former Vernon Vipers Assistant Coach Colin O'Hara was named the new Head Coach-GM of the Nipawin Hawks of the Saskachewan Junior Hockey League. O'Hara who was named WHA Coach of the year honours with the Lumby Fighting Saints before joining the Vipers last season, also held posts as an Assistant Coach-GM with the BCHL Quesnel Millionaires, and Assistant Coach with the La Ronge Ice Wolves of the SJHL.
Cheeseman Takes Over Frozen Tide Coach Gig:
June 25 2008 at 8:04 AM
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Cheeseman takes over Frozen Tide coach gig
June 24, 2008
Former Vernon Viper Jeff Cheesman has been selected as the new head coach of the University of Alabama Frozen Tide hockey team. Cheeseman, 33, succeeds Darren Awender, who left the Tuscaloosa school to attend pharmacy school at Union University in Jackson, Tenn. Cheeseman, a Minden, Ont. product, pocketed 50 goals and 118 points in helping the Vipers win the 1996 Royal Bank Cup over the host Melfort Mustangs in Saskatchewan. The Lake Superior State University grad, who played three years of minor pro before suffering a serious injury, will continue to serve in his role as Director of Hockey for the City of Pelham, Ont. He was an assistant coach with the Frozen Tide last year.
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Cheeseman takes over Frozen Tide coach gig
June 24, 2008
Former Vernon Viper Jeff Cheesman has been selected as the new head coach of the University of Alabama Frozen Tide hockey team. Cheeseman, 33, succeeds Darren Awender, who left the Tuscaloosa school to attend pharmacy school at Union University in Jackson, Tenn. Cheeseman, a Minden, Ont. product, pocketed 50 goals and 118 points in helping the Vipers win the 1996 Royal Bank Cup over the host Melfort Mustangs in Saskatchewan. The Lake Superior State University grad, who played three years of minor pro before suffering a serious injury, will continue to serve in his role as Director of Hockey for the City of Pelham, Ont. He was an assistant coach with the Frozen Tide last year.
Smeltzer Joins Brock University:
May 30 2008 at 5:27 PM
This is on the Vipers web site:
Badgers men’s hockey add strength on blueline
by Added 2008-05-30
ST. CATHARINES, Ont. – The Brock University men’s hockey team is pleased to announce the addition of defenseman Isaac Smeltzer (Estevan, SASK.) for the 2008-09 season. "We are looking forward to Isaac making an immediate impact on our team,” said Brock head coach Murray Nystrom. “He is a great person, an outstanding student and, due to his hockey experiences, brings leadership skills to our group." Over for the past three seasons, the 6-foot-3, 215 lb defenseman, played in the British Columbia Hockey League with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs and Vernon Vipers. In 158 career games he registered 19 goals and 50 assists for 69 career points. He also racked up 327 penalty minutes. In 2007-08 he recorded a career best 37 points recording 10 goals and 27 assists. Prior to the BCHL, Smeltzer played 14 games in Major Junior for the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League. "This will be a perfect opportunity for me to continue my hockey career and also acquire a degree from Brock's prestigious business school,” said Smeltzer. “Brock's hockey program is clearly on the rise and it is something I am very honoured to become a part of."
This is on the Vipers web site:
Badgers men’s hockey add strength on blueline
by Added 2008-05-30
ST. CATHARINES, Ont. – The Brock University men’s hockey team is pleased to announce the addition of defenseman Isaac Smeltzer (Estevan, SASK.) for the 2008-09 season. "We are looking forward to Isaac making an immediate impact on our team,” said Brock head coach Murray Nystrom. “He is a great person, an outstanding student and, due to his hockey experiences, brings leadership skills to our group." Over for the past three seasons, the 6-foot-3, 215 lb defenseman, played in the British Columbia Hockey League with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs and Vernon Vipers. In 158 career games he registered 19 goals and 50 assists for 69 career points. He also racked up 327 penalty minutes. In 2007-08 he recorded a career best 37 points recording 10 goals and 27 assists. Prior to the BCHL, Smeltzer played 14 games in Major Junior for the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League. "This will be a perfect opportunity for me to continue my hockey career and also acquire a degree from Brock's prestigious business school,” said Smeltzer. “Brock's hockey program is clearly on the rise and it is something I am very honoured to become a part of."
Ferner Rates Local Talent:
May 2 2008, 12:15 PM
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Ferner rates local talent
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star - May 02, 2008
Nearly 80 Vernon Viper hopefuls hit the ice last weekend at Wesbild Centre, all vying for an invite to the Snakes’ main camp this summer, and head coach/GM Mark Ferner was pleased with the skills on display.“We had a lot of positive feedback from the four-on-four,” said Ferner, who changed the scrimmage format to emphasize skating and puck-handling skills. “We got to see a lot of good young players, and when you have two more bodies on the ice, you might not be able to identify them as easily.“The Vernon kids were very good, and there were some good ones from Winfield and Kelowna too. We were very happy that some of the better players were from the surrounding areas. It’s important that you have a local flavour on the team.”Ferner said approximately 30 skaters will receive an invite to the Vipers’ main camp.“The one thing we didn’t want to see happen was we didn’t want any fighting,” said Ferner, adding there were 15-year-olds going up against 20-year-olds on the ice, which could make for some lopsided scraps. “Once the main camp comes, the intensity will go up. We just wanted to see if these kids could play. It was still competitive and you can still identify players.“It’s our responsibility to put the best team on the ice, and if some of these new guys turn out to be better than some of our veteran players, they’ll play. I’ve told our guys there are no safe positions.”Viper veterans Rob Short, Trent Dorais, Justin Palazzo and Connor Jones were on hand to guide the prospects through various drills, and graduate Ryan Kakoske donned referee stripes to control the scrimmages.“Our veteran players made it easier on us,” said Ferner. “They were there every day, willing to do whatever we asked of them.”Ferner also did away with the traditional all-star game, explaining that by having one, he’d basically be showing who was getting cut.“These kids all paid the same amount of money to be here, and we want the kids leaving here with a good taste in their mouths.”Up next for Ferner will be the Global training camp May 8-11 in Vancouver, followed by the Vipers’ Alaska camp towards the end of May.In other Viper happenings, twins Connor and Kellen Jones have committed to the Quinnipiac University Bobcats for the 2010-11 season.The 17-year-old Montrose products shared rookie-of-the-year honours with the Snakes last season. Kellen racked up 12-55-67 in 60 games, while Connor compiled 24-30-54 in 50 games.The Bobcats, who play in Hamden, Conn., finished sixth in the ECAC last year, at 9-9-4.Meanwhile, defenceman Adam Thompson and forward Brett Switzer – two future Vipers playing with the Calgary Buffaloes – had strong showings at the Telus Cup National Midget Championship in Arnprior, Ont.Thompson racked up three goals and four assists and Switzer recorded four helpers as the Buffaloes finished fourth in the six-team tournament at 2-1-4. The Buffaloes bowed 7-4 to Séminaire St-François Blizzard of Quebec in the bronze-medal game.Both Thompson and Switzer earned Player-of-the-Game awards during round-robin play. For the first time in the Telus Cup’s 30-year history, the Central Region won the National Midget Championship. Mathieu Lecours, Justin Lockeyer and Denis Restoule scored in the first five minutes of the third period as the Sudbury Nickel Capital Wolves (Central) won gold with a 5-3 victory over the Winnipeg Thrashers (West).
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Ferner rates local talent
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star - May 02, 2008
Nearly 80 Vernon Viper hopefuls hit the ice last weekend at Wesbild Centre, all vying for an invite to the Snakes’ main camp this summer, and head coach/GM Mark Ferner was pleased with the skills on display.“We had a lot of positive feedback from the four-on-four,” said Ferner, who changed the scrimmage format to emphasize skating and puck-handling skills. “We got to see a lot of good young players, and when you have two more bodies on the ice, you might not be able to identify them as easily.“The Vernon kids were very good, and there were some good ones from Winfield and Kelowna too. We were very happy that some of the better players were from the surrounding areas. It’s important that you have a local flavour on the team.”Ferner said approximately 30 skaters will receive an invite to the Vipers’ main camp.“The one thing we didn’t want to see happen was we didn’t want any fighting,” said Ferner, adding there were 15-year-olds going up against 20-year-olds on the ice, which could make for some lopsided scraps. “Once the main camp comes, the intensity will go up. We just wanted to see if these kids could play. It was still competitive and you can still identify players.“It’s our responsibility to put the best team on the ice, and if some of these new guys turn out to be better than some of our veteran players, they’ll play. I’ve told our guys there are no safe positions.”Viper veterans Rob Short, Trent Dorais, Justin Palazzo and Connor Jones were on hand to guide the prospects through various drills, and graduate Ryan Kakoske donned referee stripes to control the scrimmages.“Our veteran players made it easier on us,” said Ferner. “They were there every day, willing to do whatever we asked of them.”Ferner also did away with the traditional all-star game, explaining that by having one, he’d basically be showing who was getting cut.“These kids all paid the same amount of money to be here, and we want the kids leaving here with a good taste in their mouths.”Up next for Ferner will be the Global training camp May 8-11 in Vancouver, followed by the Vipers’ Alaska camp towards the end of May.In other Viper happenings, twins Connor and Kellen Jones have committed to the Quinnipiac University Bobcats for the 2010-11 season.The 17-year-old Montrose products shared rookie-of-the-year honours with the Snakes last season. Kellen racked up 12-55-67 in 60 games, while Connor compiled 24-30-54 in 50 games.The Bobcats, who play in Hamden, Conn., finished sixth in the ECAC last year, at 9-9-4.Meanwhile, defenceman Adam Thompson and forward Brett Switzer – two future Vipers playing with the Calgary Buffaloes – had strong showings at the Telus Cup National Midget Championship in Arnprior, Ont.Thompson racked up three goals and four assists and Switzer recorded four helpers as the Buffaloes finished fourth in the six-team tournament at 2-1-4. The Buffaloes bowed 7-4 to Séminaire St-François Blizzard of Quebec in the bronze-medal game.Both Thompson and Switzer earned Player-of-the-Game awards during round-robin play. For the first time in the Telus Cup’s 30-year history, the Central Region won the National Midget Championship. Mathieu Lecours, Justin Lockeyer and Denis Restoule scored in the first five minutes of the third period as the Sudbury Nickel Capital Wolves (Central) won gold with a 5-3 victory over the Winnipeg Thrashers (West).
My Thoughts From Spring Camp:
April 27 2008, 2:40 PM
Saw some of the Vipers Camp this afternoon. Heres some kids that I thought stood out,
Brooks Christensen (Team Yellow) For the 2nd straight day, Christensen played well and stood out. Smooth skater with some nice hands. Really handles the puck well.
Connor Jones (Team Red) Looked good, had a few good scoring chances.
Tyler Brandon (Team Red) Played well on the backend. Looked good defensively.
Doug Orr (Team Red) Really stood out, reads the play well, likes to move the puck up ice, plays solid on the backend. Was impressed with this kid.
Dylan Smith (Team Blue) A big kid who moves the puck well, made some nice plays up ice. May need some work on his skating.
Sean Menton (Team Blue) A very small kid but is quick and handles the puck well. Smooth fast skater who has some nice moves in close. Was wearing a visor, someone said he played Jr last year. Very impressed.
Kris Glinsbockel (Team Blue) A Vernon product who played with Merritt last season. Looked very impressive in the 1st & 2nd periods. Scored two Goals. Really skates well, nice puck handler, always looking at making a play. On the same line with Menton, both kids played very well together. Very quick at getting back into position. Was impressed.
Saw some of the Vipers Camp this afternoon. Heres some kids that I thought stood out,
Brooks Christensen (Team Yellow) For the 2nd straight day, Christensen played well and stood out. Smooth skater with some nice hands. Really handles the puck well.
Connor Jones (Team Red) Looked good, had a few good scoring chances.
Tyler Brandon (Team Red) Played well on the backend. Looked good defensively.
Doug Orr (Team Red) Really stood out, reads the play well, likes to move the puck up ice, plays solid on the backend. Was impressed with this kid.
Dylan Smith (Team Blue) A big kid who moves the puck well, made some nice plays up ice. May need some work on his skating.
Sean Menton (Team Blue) A very small kid but is quick and handles the puck well. Smooth fast skater who has some nice moves in close. Was wearing a visor, someone said he played Jr last year. Very impressed.
Kris Glinsbockel (Team Blue) A Vernon product who played with Merritt last season. Looked very impressive in the 1st & 2nd periods. Scored two Goals. Really skates well, nice puck handler, always looking at making a play. On the same line with Menton, both kids played very well together. Very quick at getting back into position. Was impressed.
My Thoughts From Day 2 At Vipers Camp:
Saw some of the Vipers Camp this afternoon. Heres some kids that I thought stood out,
Kyle Franzius (Team White) Looked very solid up front. A bigger kid who skates very well, and really handles the puck. Seems to read the play very well. Has some nice hands.
Colton Donselaar (Team White) Played well defensively.
Rob Short (Team Black) Scored 2 Goals & atleast 1 Assist. Short was by far the best player on the ice. Played well at both ends, showed alot of hustle. Was really skating strong all afternoon.
Curtis Summerfelt (Team Black) Played as an "AP" two years ago with Vernon, played last season in the WHA with Lumby. I liked the looks of this kid when he played with the Vipers 2 seasons ago and thought he stood out this afternoon. Very strong skater, with some soft hands around the net. Had many good scoring chances, nice moves down low. Outskated most of the kids on the ice.
Brooks Christensen (Team Yellow) Looked very solid up front, was Team Yellows best player, looked like a Jr A player, was wearing a visor. Solid skater and nice shot.
Tyler Steel (Team Yellow) Played very well between the pipes. Very quick on his feet, plays his position well. Made some nice saves down low, stopped two breakaways. Was one of the better Goaltenders in Camp.
Talked to a Vipers season ticket holder who knows a few of the Vipers scouts. He was telling me the Vipers are looking at improving in Goal and have someone they are interested in. Saw alot of kids wearing Revelstoke Grizzlie Jackets, one kid was wearing a Trail Smoke Eaters jacket.
Kyle Franzius (Team White) Looked very solid up front. A bigger kid who skates very well, and really handles the puck. Seems to read the play very well. Has some nice hands.
Colton Donselaar (Team White) Played well defensively.
Rob Short (Team Black) Scored 2 Goals & atleast 1 Assist. Short was by far the best player on the ice. Played well at both ends, showed alot of hustle. Was really skating strong all afternoon.
Curtis Summerfelt (Team Black) Played as an "AP" two years ago with Vernon, played last season in the WHA with Lumby. I liked the looks of this kid when he played with the Vipers 2 seasons ago and thought he stood out this afternoon. Very strong skater, with some soft hands around the net. Had many good scoring chances, nice moves down low. Outskated most of the kids on the ice.
Brooks Christensen (Team Yellow) Looked very solid up front, was Team Yellows best player, looked like a Jr A player, was wearing a visor. Solid skater and nice shot.
Tyler Steel (Team Yellow) Played very well between the pipes. Very quick on his feet, plays his position well. Made some nice saves down low, stopped two breakaways. Was one of the better Goaltenders in Camp.
Talked to a Vipers season ticket holder who knows a few of the Vipers scouts. He was telling me the Vipers are looking at improving in Goal and have someone they are interested in. Saw alot of kids wearing Revelstoke Grizzlie Jackets, one kid was wearing a Trail Smoke Eaters jacket.
My Thoughts From Spring Camp:
Was at the rink tonight catching some of the Vipers Spring Camp. No lineup sheets so I couldnt catch any names of the players, but did see a few of the Viper veteran players from last years team. Team Red faced off against Team Yellow in wich both teams basically worked on breakaways-passing for the whole practise. Tomorrows Camp will have actual games.
Team Rosters:
Team Yellow:
Brad Irving
Anthoni Sheppherd
Reece Matheson
Dylan Mooney
Evan Ripley
Luke Challier
Justin Palazzo
Brooks Christensen
Cody Barendregt
Darcy Backstrom
Trevor Gustafson
Luke Hannas
Kurtis Hagen
Jordan Hirano
Colton Dahlen
Braden Redman
Tyler Steel
Christian Karl
Lucas Gore
Team Red:
Tyler Brandon
Doug Orr
Riggs Young
Tyrelle Louis
Reed Blinkhorn
Zach Eurchuk
Luc Blinkhorn
Brandon Luff
Justin Taber
Daren Schmautz
Logan Stockley
Brendan Fagan
Brantley Shopansky
Bill Garnett
Eric Brabander
Jordan Vallance
Dylan Bierwrth
Team Blue:
Nick Amies
Dylan Smith
Lynden Enger
Jeremy Wiebe
Ryan Skinner
Sean Menton
Kris Glinsbockel
Kyle Buckley
Scott Austin
Karson Holt
Jordan Swetlikoff
Trevor Fitzgerald
Zach Henry
Rylan Pickett
Connor Barrie
Ryan Farghar
Team White:
Darin Robak
Ryan Callebrese
Taylor Greatrex
Danny Vlanich
Bennett Hambrook
Kyle Franzius
Danielle Donnachie
David Sabey
Brad Friedrich
Colton Donselaar
Ryan Kallis
Keegan Hunter
Shawn Halliday
Spencer Asuchuk
Brock Fraser
Ryan Gross
Mike Vlanich
Team Black:
Colt Ruthven
Sam Rockwell
Tyler Gavin
Sina Pourmahktar
Trent Dorais
Tye Sanford
Chad Olsen
Sawyer Mick
Curtis Summerfelt
Corey Savoia
Matthew Peddie
Rob Short
Jordan Norstrom
Burhan Pourmakthar
Brock Bolson
Conor Tamai
Alex Wind
Peter Megoritis
Nick Broesler
Team Rosters:
Team Yellow:
Brad Irving
Anthoni Sheppherd
Reece Matheson
Dylan Mooney
Evan Ripley
Luke Challier
Justin Palazzo
Brooks Christensen
Cody Barendregt
Darcy Backstrom
Trevor Gustafson
Luke Hannas
Kurtis Hagen
Jordan Hirano
Colton Dahlen
Braden Redman
Tyler Steel
Christian Karl
Lucas Gore
Team Red:
Tyler Brandon
Doug Orr
Riggs Young
Tyrelle Louis
Reed Blinkhorn
Zach Eurchuk
Luc Blinkhorn
Brandon Luff
Justin Taber
Daren Schmautz
Logan Stockley
Brendan Fagan
Brantley Shopansky
Bill Garnett
Eric Brabander
Jordan Vallance
Dylan Bierwrth
Team Blue:
Nick Amies
Dylan Smith
Lynden Enger
Jeremy Wiebe
Ryan Skinner
Sean Menton
Kris Glinsbockel
Kyle Buckley
Scott Austin
Karson Holt
Jordan Swetlikoff
Trevor Fitzgerald
Zach Henry
Rylan Pickett
Connor Barrie
Ryan Farghar
Team White:
Darin Robak
Ryan Callebrese
Taylor Greatrex
Danny Vlanich
Bennett Hambrook
Kyle Franzius
Danielle Donnachie
David Sabey
Brad Friedrich
Colton Donselaar
Ryan Kallis
Keegan Hunter
Shawn Halliday
Spencer Asuchuk
Brock Fraser
Ryan Gross
Mike Vlanich
Team Black:
Colt Ruthven
Sam Rockwell
Tyler Gavin
Sina Pourmahktar
Trent Dorais
Tye Sanford
Chad Olsen
Sawyer Mick
Curtis Summerfelt
Corey Savoia
Matthew Peddie
Rob Short
Jordan Norstrom
Burhan Pourmakthar
Brock Bolson
Conor Tamai
Alex Wind
Peter Megoritis
Nick Broesler
Vipers Searching For Skill:
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Vipers searching for skill
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star - April 25, 2008
The B.C. Hockey League introduced four-on-four hockey to regular season overtime to wow fans with more offence. Vernon Vipers’ head coach Mark Ferner is taking that strategy to the next level at this weekend’s spring camp. He will use the four-aside scenario to identify the cream of the 70 skaters and 15 goalies battling for a few precious spots on the Vipers’ 2008-09 roster.Rather than go with traditional five-on-five hockey, Ferner is hoping the extra space will allow the better skaters, both offensively and defensively, to show their stuff. Conversely, it will also expose weaker players who won’t have that extra linemate to hide behind.“We want to see the skill level of these kids coming in, so we’re going to play at four-on-four,” said Ferner. “This camp is going to be all about skill. Our goalies are going to see a lot of shots.”Camp registration starts today at 3 p.m. at Wesbild Centre, with practice sessions going at 5:15, 7:00 and 8:45 p.m.The 45 forwards and 25 defencemen will be divided into five squads, with each group getting two scrimmage sessions a day on Saturday and Sunday. There’ll also be a goalie session Saturday night at 7 p.m.There could be one extra spot in the Vipers’ lineup depending on whether or not veteran winger Scott Zurevinski decides to postpone his commitment to the NCAA Quinnipiac Bobcats. Zurevinski posted 25-28-53 in 48 games with the Vipers last season.“We have to move forward like he’s not going to be back. That’s what this league is all about… moving these kids onto the next level,” said Ferner.
Spring Camp Schedule
Friday April 25th
3 PM REGISTRATION
4 PM MEET AND GREET WITH PLAYERS AND PARENTS
5:15 PM PRACTICE
#1 7:00 PM PRACTICE
#2 8:45 PM PRACTICE
#3 Saturday April 26th 9:00-10:30 AM 1 VS 2
10:45-12:15 AM 3VS 4 12:30-2:00 PM 5 VS
1 2:15-3:45 PM 2 VS 3 4:00-5:30 PM
4 VS 5 7:00- 8:15 GOALIE SESSION
Sunday April 27th 9:00-10:30 AM
3 VS 5 10:45-12:15 AM 2 VS 4
12:30-2:00 PM 1 VS 3 2:15-3:45 PM
2 VS 5 4:00-5:30 PM 1 VS 4
Vipers searching for skill
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star - April 25, 2008
The B.C. Hockey League introduced four-on-four hockey to regular season overtime to wow fans with more offence. Vernon Vipers’ head coach Mark Ferner is taking that strategy to the next level at this weekend’s spring camp. He will use the four-aside scenario to identify the cream of the 70 skaters and 15 goalies battling for a few precious spots on the Vipers’ 2008-09 roster.Rather than go with traditional five-on-five hockey, Ferner is hoping the extra space will allow the better skaters, both offensively and defensively, to show their stuff. Conversely, it will also expose weaker players who won’t have that extra linemate to hide behind.“We want to see the skill level of these kids coming in, so we’re going to play at four-on-four,” said Ferner. “This camp is going to be all about skill. Our goalies are going to see a lot of shots.”Camp registration starts today at 3 p.m. at Wesbild Centre, with practice sessions going at 5:15, 7:00 and 8:45 p.m.The 45 forwards and 25 defencemen will be divided into five squads, with each group getting two scrimmage sessions a day on Saturday and Sunday. There’ll also be a goalie session Saturday night at 7 p.m.There could be one extra spot in the Vipers’ lineup depending on whether or not veteran winger Scott Zurevinski decides to postpone his commitment to the NCAA Quinnipiac Bobcats. Zurevinski posted 25-28-53 in 48 games with the Vipers last season.“We have to move forward like he’s not going to be back. That’s what this league is all about… moving these kids onto the next level,” said Ferner.
Spring Camp Schedule
Friday April 25th
3 PM REGISTRATION
4 PM MEET AND GREET WITH PLAYERS AND PARENTS
5:15 PM PRACTICE
#1 7:00 PM PRACTICE
#2 8:45 PM PRACTICE
#3 Saturday April 26th 9:00-10:30 AM 1 VS 2
10:45-12:15 AM 3VS 4 12:30-2:00 PM 5 VS
1 2:15-3:45 PM 2 VS 3 4:00-5:30 PM
4 VS 5 7:00- 8:15 GOALIE SESSION
Sunday April 27th 9:00-10:30 AM
3 VS 5 10:45-12:15 AM 2 VS 4
12:30-2:00 PM 1 VS 3 2:15-3:45 PM
2 VS 5 4:00-5:30 PM 1 VS 4
Vipers Sign L.A. All-Star:
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Vipers sign L.A. all-star
May 09, 2008
The Vernon Vipers may have found a quarterback to anchor their powerplay in Los Angeles product Steven Weinstein.Weinstein, a defenceman who turns 18 in August, helped the L.A. Selects Midget AAA team win the State Championship and advance to last month’s nationals in Buffalo, committed to play with the Vipers next season.According to the Vipers, Weinstein led his team’s defence in every offensive category, playing up to 30 minutes a game.“I’ve seen him play a few times now, and he was one of the better offensive-minded defencemen at nationals in Buffalo,” said Vipers’ head coach/GM Mark Ferner. Last season, the Vipers didn’t have a d-man who could effectively coordinate the powerplay, so they had to move one of their veteran forwards, usually Scott Zurevinski or Hunter Bishop, to the point.“We have a powerplay guy now,” said Ferner, who likened Weinstein’s puck-handling skills to those of shifty Viper twins Connor and Kellen Jones. “He’s going to be very fun to watch, no question.“Those guys are invaluable and they don’t come around that often. Whenever you can add that dimension to your team, you have to. We were lucky because there was a lot of other interest in him.”The one knock against Weinstein could be his size.Weinstein’s player stats with the Selects list him at 5-foot-9 and 148 pounds, but Ferner said the California product has beefed up since the beginning of last season.Last year, the Vipers had the biggest d-man in the B.C. Hockey League in 6-foot-5, 230-pound Upland, Calif. product Kyle Bigos, and now they also have one of the smallest.When asked whether he would consider pairing Weinstein with Bigos to form the ultimate Mutt & Jeff defensive pairing, Ferner said it was a possibility.“Kyle is skating with him in California right now, and he said he’s very impressed.”Last season, the Selects went 50-15, including a 15-game win streak, and won four of the five tournaments they entered.
Vipers sign L.A. all-star
May 09, 2008
The Vernon Vipers may have found a quarterback to anchor their powerplay in Los Angeles product Steven Weinstein.Weinstein, a defenceman who turns 18 in August, helped the L.A. Selects Midget AAA team win the State Championship and advance to last month’s nationals in Buffalo, committed to play with the Vipers next season.According to the Vipers, Weinstein led his team’s defence in every offensive category, playing up to 30 minutes a game.“I’ve seen him play a few times now, and he was one of the better offensive-minded defencemen at nationals in Buffalo,” said Vipers’ head coach/GM Mark Ferner. Last season, the Vipers didn’t have a d-man who could effectively coordinate the powerplay, so they had to move one of their veteran forwards, usually Scott Zurevinski or Hunter Bishop, to the point.“We have a powerplay guy now,” said Ferner, who likened Weinstein’s puck-handling skills to those of shifty Viper twins Connor and Kellen Jones. “He’s going to be very fun to watch, no question.“Those guys are invaluable and they don’t come around that often. Whenever you can add that dimension to your team, you have to. We were lucky because there was a lot of other interest in him.”The one knock against Weinstein could be his size.Weinstein’s player stats with the Selects list him at 5-foot-9 and 148 pounds, but Ferner said the California product has beefed up since the beginning of last season.Last year, the Vipers had the biggest d-man in the B.C. Hockey League in 6-foot-5, 230-pound Upland, Calif. product Kyle Bigos, and now they also have one of the smallest.When asked whether he would consider pairing Weinstein with Bigos to form the ultimate Mutt & Jeff defensive pairing, Ferner said it was a possibility.“Kyle is skating with him in California right now, and he said he’s very impressed.”Last season, the Selects went 50-15, including a 15-game win streak, and won four of the five tournaments they entered.
Weinstein Commits To Vernon:
This is on the Vipers web site:
vipers get californian by viper staff Added 2008-05-07
Vipers Get Commitment The Vernon Vipers are very excited to announce the commitment of defenseman Steven Weinstein. Steve is a very offensive minded defenseman from Los Angeles, California. The 5’9” defenseman recently played for the very talented LA Selects midget AAA team. The LA Selects represented their region at the Nationals in Buffalo, New York. Steven led the defense in every offensive category, playing up to 30 minutes a game. The Vipers look forward to Weinstein being a huge part of next years team and are very excited to have him aboard.
vipers get californian by viper staff Added 2008-05-07
Vipers Get Commitment The Vernon Vipers are very excited to announce the commitment of defenseman Steven Weinstein. Steve is a very offensive minded defenseman from Los Angeles, California. The 5’9” defenseman recently played for the very talented LA Selects midget AAA team. The LA Selects represented their region at the Nationals in Buffalo, New York. Steven led the defense in every offensive category, playing up to 30 minutes a game. The Vipers look forward to Weinstein being a huge part of next years team and are very excited to have him aboard.
Vernon Move Got Metropolit Going:
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Vernon move got Metropolit going
April 23, 2008 ANAHEIM –
Former Vernon Lakers forward Glen Metropolit has made a lifetime of beating tough odds and proving doubters wrong.The eldest child of three siblings was raised by a single-mom in Toronto's Regent Park - one of Canada's most violent and drug infested inner-city slums.When his mother couldn't afford the bills, Metropolit and his younger brother, Troy, were shuffled in and out of foster homes. But hockey became a salvation for Metropolit, who despite the chaos, managed to somehow skate his way through the confusing labyrinth of gangs, pimps and crackheads that were the norm of his youth."My childhood was hard," said the 33-year-old Boston Bruins forward. "I would be taking the garbage out and there would be someone there doing crack. My mom did everything she could but it was tough. I bounced around as a kid and there were money troubles so my mom had to send us to a foster home for awhile. I saw it all."But nothing, it seemed, was going to stand in the way of his ultimate goal of playing professional hockey. And he said the time he spent in Vernon was one of the most important stepping stones in his development as both an individual and a hockey player.“I wanted to leave Toronto because of all this other stuff going on," said Metropolit. "I wanted to go to Vernon because I figured it would be good for my schooling. I wanted to get away from the distractions."Vernon head coach Rob Bremner spotted Metropolit at a select junior player camp in Guelph, Ont. following his second year of junior B. "He knew my story and how I was going down the wrong road," said Metropolit, after a regular-season loss to the Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center.Metropolit compiled 43 goals and 117 points with Vernon (28-28-4) in the 1994-95 B.C. Junior Hockey League season, and he started to get noticed for the first time by all those scouts who had ignored him growing up in Toronto.His mother, Linda, couldn't afford to let him play travel hockey so he played in neighbourhood house leagues until he was 17.After lighting up the BCJHL, Metropolit signed a letter-of-intent to play for Bowling Green but he couldn't get in because of low grades. He landed in Nashville instead, thanks to a connection one of the Vernon assistant coaches (Troy Mick) had with the ECHL club.After recording 61 points in 58 games in his first season (1995-96) of pro hockey, Metropolit played in Pensacola, Quebec, Grand Rapids and Portland over the next five seasons before being signed as a free agent by the Washington Capitals in July, 1999.He played 138 games over parts of the next five seasons with the Capitals and the Tampa Bay Lightning. After a couple of years with teams in Switzerland and Finland in the European leagues, he returned to the NHL in 2006-07 for his first full NHL season where he split time between Atlanta and St. Louis.Metropolit estimates he moved 20 times within Regent Park as a youngster and his hockey career has been just as nomadic. He scratched and clawed his way out of the housing projects and it is the same perseverance that has propelled him to the top of the hockey ladder. The married father of three now tries to pass along his personal knowledge and experience to his own children who enjoy a much different childhood than their father. He says he gets his work ethic from his mother."My mother always told me to 'chase your dream'. She would say 'follow your dream and believe in yourself,'" said Metropolit, who was signed as a free agent by the Bruins last September.Metropolit could have just as easily ended up like his younger half brother Troy, who is languishing in an Ontario prison for his role in one of Canada's most notorious kidnappings. Convicted, along with two others, in the kidnapping and torture of a prominent Toronto lawyer and his wife, Troy's 16-year sentence is one of the longest in Canadian history for that type of crime. Glen was determined to let his surroundings stifle his sense of self being."Hockey was my escape," Glen said. "It was my outlet. I had a group of about five friends and we would play any kind of hockey. Ball hockey in the summer and ice hockey in the winter. It was always hockey."Metropolit may not have had a normal hockey upbringing, and he seldom caused trouble, but in those rare moments he did, Linda, knew how to deal with it."All I would have to say is 'No hockey tonight', and he would be crying," she told the Washington Post. "And I would never have to do it again. He'd ask for a licking instead. We had to drag him off the ice to get him to eat. There were lot of freezing cold days and there's no one there but him. He's the only one smacking the puck against the boards. Nothing ever distracted him from hockey. He never wanted to stop playing."His first big break came at 17 when he followed a friend on a whim to a tryout for the Richmond Hill junior B team. Metropolit made the team, barely. In his second year ,he had 100 points in just 49 games earning an invite to the Guelph camp."I never played at a top level as a kid. The Richmond Hill team recruited one of my best friends and I was the last one to make the team. They couldn't decide whether to keep me or this other younger kid, but lucky for me they eventually decided to send him back to his Triple A Midget team."
Vernon move got Metropolit going
April 23, 2008 ANAHEIM –
Former Vernon Lakers forward Glen Metropolit has made a lifetime of beating tough odds and proving doubters wrong.The eldest child of three siblings was raised by a single-mom in Toronto's Regent Park - one of Canada's most violent and drug infested inner-city slums.When his mother couldn't afford the bills, Metropolit and his younger brother, Troy, were shuffled in and out of foster homes. But hockey became a salvation for Metropolit, who despite the chaos, managed to somehow skate his way through the confusing labyrinth of gangs, pimps and crackheads that were the norm of his youth."My childhood was hard," said the 33-year-old Boston Bruins forward. "I would be taking the garbage out and there would be someone there doing crack. My mom did everything she could but it was tough. I bounced around as a kid and there were money troubles so my mom had to send us to a foster home for awhile. I saw it all."But nothing, it seemed, was going to stand in the way of his ultimate goal of playing professional hockey. And he said the time he spent in Vernon was one of the most important stepping stones in his development as both an individual and a hockey player.“I wanted to leave Toronto because of all this other stuff going on," said Metropolit. "I wanted to go to Vernon because I figured it would be good for my schooling. I wanted to get away from the distractions."Vernon head coach Rob Bremner spotted Metropolit at a select junior player camp in Guelph, Ont. following his second year of junior B. "He knew my story and how I was going down the wrong road," said Metropolit, after a regular-season loss to the Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center.Metropolit compiled 43 goals and 117 points with Vernon (28-28-4) in the 1994-95 B.C. Junior Hockey League season, and he started to get noticed for the first time by all those scouts who had ignored him growing up in Toronto.His mother, Linda, couldn't afford to let him play travel hockey so he played in neighbourhood house leagues until he was 17.After lighting up the BCJHL, Metropolit signed a letter-of-intent to play for Bowling Green but he couldn't get in because of low grades. He landed in Nashville instead, thanks to a connection one of the Vernon assistant coaches (Troy Mick) had with the ECHL club.After recording 61 points in 58 games in his first season (1995-96) of pro hockey, Metropolit played in Pensacola, Quebec, Grand Rapids and Portland over the next five seasons before being signed as a free agent by the Washington Capitals in July, 1999.He played 138 games over parts of the next five seasons with the Capitals and the Tampa Bay Lightning. After a couple of years with teams in Switzerland and Finland in the European leagues, he returned to the NHL in 2006-07 for his first full NHL season where he split time between Atlanta and St. Louis.Metropolit estimates he moved 20 times within Regent Park as a youngster and his hockey career has been just as nomadic. He scratched and clawed his way out of the housing projects and it is the same perseverance that has propelled him to the top of the hockey ladder. The married father of three now tries to pass along his personal knowledge and experience to his own children who enjoy a much different childhood than their father. He says he gets his work ethic from his mother."My mother always told me to 'chase your dream'. She would say 'follow your dream and believe in yourself,'" said Metropolit, who was signed as a free agent by the Bruins last September.Metropolit could have just as easily ended up like his younger half brother Troy, who is languishing in an Ontario prison for his role in one of Canada's most notorious kidnappings. Convicted, along with two others, in the kidnapping and torture of a prominent Toronto lawyer and his wife, Troy's 16-year sentence is one of the longest in Canadian history for that type of crime. Glen was determined to let his surroundings stifle his sense of self being."Hockey was my escape," Glen said. "It was my outlet. I had a group of about five friends and we would play any kind of hockey. Ball hockey in the summer and ice hockey in the winter. It was always hockey."Metropolit may not have had a normal hockey upbringing, and he seldom caused trouble, but in those rare moments he did, Linda, knew how to deal with it."All I would have to say is 'No hockey tonight', and he would be crying," she told the Washington Post. "And I would never have to do it again. He'd ask for a licking instead. We had to drag him off the ice to get him to eat. There were lot of freezing cold days and there's no one there but him. He's the only one smacking the puck against the boards. Nothing ever distracted him from hockey. He never wanted to stop playing."His first big break came at 17 when he followed a friend on a whim to a tryout for the Richmond Hill junior B team. Metropolit made the team, barely. In his second year ,he had 100 points in just 49 games earning an invite to the Guelph camp."I never played at a top level as a kid. The Richmond Hill team recruited one of my best friends and I was the last one to make the team. They couldn't decide whether to keep me or this other younger kid, but lucky for me they eventually decided to send him back to his Triple A Midget team."
Vipers Ink Buffaloes:
This was in Fridays Morning Star Newspaper:
Vipers ink Buffaloes
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star - April 04, 2008
Vernon Vipers’ head coach/GM Mark Ferner wasted no time in stocking the cupboard for next year’s B.C. Hockey League season. Centreman Brett Switzer and defenceman Adam Thompson, both from the provincial Midget AAA champion Calgary Buffaloes, have committed to play for the Vipers next season. “We’re pretty excited that they’ve committed,” said Ferner, adding that the announcement was delayed by a week so as not to conflict with the Ford World Women’s Curling Championship. “Switzer’s more of an offensive-minded skill guy, but he’s a really smart hockey player, and Thompson’s a guy that eats up real quality minutes.” Switzer, a 5-foot-9 forward who led the Buffaloes offensively all season, said: “They (Vipers) talked to me and Adam early, and it was nice to get that interest.” The Buffaloes are currently playing the Cariboo Cougars for the Pacific Regional Championship, the winner advancing to the nationals. Before that, Switzer led the Alberta Midget Hockey League in playoff scoring with 12 goals and eight assists in 12 games, helping the Buffaloes clinch the provincial title. He also bagged 28 goals and 20 assists in 36 regular season games, earning a selection to the AMHL All-star team. “I had a really good year this year, which really helped my confidence,” said Switzer. “I try my best to make sure I get into a good offensive position. The past couple of years I’ve been more of a playmaker, but we lost a few guys to injury, so I’ve stepped up more as a goal scorer this year.” Switzer has also been a clutch performer at the prestigious Mac’s AAA midget hockey tournament in Calgary. For the past two tournaments he has been named a second team all-star, putting him in a very elite group. With a solid core of returning players, Switzer is looking forward to joining the fold. “(The Vipers were) a really good young team this year, so I’m really excited to see what we can do next year,” said Switzer. “I really like Mark as a coach. He’s a really approachable guy, and if there’s a problem, he’ll let you know, but he won’t let the whole arena know.” Thompson, a 6-foot-1 blueliner, has been solid on the back end for the Buffaloes while chipping in on offence from the point. Thompson logged a ton of minutes throughout the playoffs, leading his team to the provincial championship. “I want to get into junior hockey and play at that level,” said Thompson, who pocketed three goals and four assists in 12 AMHL playoff games. He was just as steady in the regular season where he collected 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points in 36 games. Thompson was selected as a starter for the AMHL All-Star game, and at the skills competition, he finished second in the hardest shot. He joined Switzer as a second team All-Star at the Mac’s tournament, attended by Ferner and head Viper scout Larry Black.“I can’t wait to get on the ice and prove myself. I’m more of an offensive defenceman. I like to jump up on the rush.”The Vipers brought the Calgary duo, who will play as 18-year-olds next season, over for a visit in late January, where they watched a couple of home games. Vipers’ captain Chris Crowell happened to be serving a suspension at the time, so he was able to roll out the welcome wagon for the Alberta prospects, who both said they were thrilled with Wesbild Centre, the fans and the organization.Added Thompson: “My dad won the 50/50, which was great.”Ferner and assistant coach Jason Williamson are currently in Buffalo to scout the U.S. Midget AAA Nationals, along with some teams in Southern Ontario.“Even though we haven’t announced too much, we’ve certainly identified some really good players,” said Ferner.Along with veteran forwards Travis Brisebois, Greg Beller, and Interior Conference MVP Hunter Bishop, the Vipers are also losing two sturdy defencemen in Isaac Smeltzer and Ryan Kakoske.“Certainly they’re all really good players, but what they leave behind is the way they showed what had to be done. All five of them have been tremendous in that area.”The possible return of gritty veteran Scott Zurevinski, who has committed to play NCAA hockey with the Quinnipiac Bobcats in Connecticut, but still has a year of B.C. Hockey League eligibility left, is a question mark said Ferner.“We’d certainly love to get him back.”
Vipers ink Buffaloes
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star - April 04, 2008
Vernon Vipers’ head coach/GM Mark Ferner wasted no time in stocking the cupboard for next year’s B.C. Hockey League season. Centreman Brett Switzer and defenceman Adam Thompson, both from the provincial Midget AAA champion Calgary Buffaloes, have committed to play for the Vipers next season. “We’re pretty excited that they’ve committed,” said Ferner, adding that the announcement was delayed by a week so as not to conflict with the Ford World Women’s Curling Championship. “Switzer’s more of an offensive-minded skill guy, but he’s a really smart hockey player, and Thompson’s a guy that eats up real quality minutes.” Switzer, a 5-foot-9 forward who led the Buffaloes offensively all season, said: “They (Vipers) talked to me and Adam early, and it was nice to get that interest.” The Buffaloes are currently playing the Cariboo Cougars for the Pacific Regional Championship, the winner advancing to the nationals. Before that, Switzer led the Alberta Midget Hockey League in playoff scoring with 12 goals and eight assists in 12 games, helping the Buffaloes clinch the provincial title. He also bagged 28 goals and 20 assists in 36 regular season games, earning a selection to the AMHL All-star team. “I had a really good year this year, which really helped my confidence,” said Switzer. “I try my best to make sure I get into a good offensive position. The past couple of years I’ve been more of a playmaker, but we lost a few guys to injury, so I’ve stepped up more as a goal scorer this year.” Switzer has also been a clutch performer at the prestigious Mac’s AAA midget hockey tournament in Calgary. For the past two tournaments he has been named a second team all-star, putting him in a very elite group. With a solid core of returning players, Switzer is looking forward to joining the fold. “(The Vipers were) a really good young team this year, so I’m really excited to see what we can do next year,” said Switzer. “I really like Mark as a coach. He’s a really approachable guy, and if there’s a problem, he’ll let you know, but he won’t let the whole arena know.” Thompson, a 6-foot-1 blueliner, has been solid on the back end for the Buffaloes while chipping in on offence from the point. Thompson logged a ton of minutes throughout the playoffs, leading his team to the provincial championship. “I want to get into junior hockey and play at that level,” said Thompson, who pocketed three goals and four assists in 12 AMHL playoff games. He was just as steady in the regular season where he collected 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points in 36 games. Thompson was selected as a starter for the AMHL All-Star game, and at the skills competition, he finished second in the hardest shot. He joined Switzer as a second team All-Star at the Mac’s tournament, attended by Ferner and head Viper scout Larry Black.“I can’t wait to get on the ice and prove myself. I’m more of an offensive defenceman. I like to jump up on the rush.”The Vipers brought the Calgary duo, who will play as 18-year-olds next season, over for a visit in late January, where they watched a couple of home games. Vipers’ captain Chris Crowell happened to be serving a suspension at the time, so he was able to roll out the welcome wagon for the Alberta prospects, who both said they were thrilled with Wesbild Centre, the fans and the organization.Added Thompson: “My dad won the 50/50, which was great.”Ferner and assistant coach Jason Williamson are currently in Buffalo to scout the U.S. Midget AAA Nationals, along with some teams in Southern Ontario.“Even though we haven’t announced too much, we’ve certainly identified some really good players,” said Ferner.Along with veteran forwards Travis Brisebois, Greg Beller, and Interior Conference MVP Hunter Bishop, the Vipers are also losing two sturdy defencemen in Isaac Smeltzer and Ryan Kakoske.“Certainly they’re all really good players, but what they leave behind is the way they showed what had to be done. All five of them have been tremendous in that area.”The possible return of gritty veteran Scott Zurevinski, who has committed to play NCAA hockey with the Quinnipiac Bobcats in Connecticut, but still has a year of B.C. Hockey League eligibility left, is a question mark said Ferner.“We’d certainly love to get him back.”
Switzer & Thompson Commit To Vernon:
This is on the Vipers website:
Vipers get committments by viper staff Added 2008-04-01
The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce two commitments for the upcoming season. Brett Switzer and Adam Thompson, both from the provincial champion Calgary Buffaloes, have committed to play for the Vipers. The two have been teammates for many years and are very excited to come to Vernon. Brett Switzer, a 5’9” forward, has been an offensive threat for the Buffaloes the whole season. Recently he has lead the Alberta Midget Hockey League in scoring through the playoffs with 12 goals and 8 assists in 12 games played. During the regular season he also put up some very impressive numbers, in 36 games played he had 28 goals and 20 assists for 48 points. He was also selected to the AMHL All-star team. Switzer has also been a clutch performer at the Mac’s AAA midget hockey tournament in Calgary, a very prestigious tournament. For the past two tournaments Brett has been named a 2nd team all-star, putting him in a very elite group. Adam Thompson, a 6’1” defenseman, has been very solid on the back end while putting up some very impressive offensive numbers at the same time. Adam has played a ton of minutes throughout the playoffs leading his team to the provincial championship. In 12 playoff games he has 3 goals and 4 assists for 7 points. He was just as steady in the regular season where in 36 games he had 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points. Thompson was selected as a starter for the AMHL All-Star game and at the skills competition finished second in the hardest shot. Adam was also selected as a 2nd team All-Star at the Mac’s AAA Midget hockey tournament. The Vernon Vipers would also like to wish the two good luck in the upcoming Pacific Championship where the Calgary Buffaloes will face off against the Cariboo Cougars
Vipers get committments by viper staff Added 2008-04-01
The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce two commitments for the upcoming season. Brett Switzer and Adam Thompson, both from the provincial champion Calgary Buffaloes, have committed to play for the Vipers. The two have been teammates for many years and are very excited to come to Vernon. Brett Switzer, a 5’9” forward, has been an offensive threat for the Buffaloes the whole season. Recently he has lead the Alberta Midget Hockey League in scoring through the playoffs with 12 goals and 8 assists in 12 games played. During the regular season he also put up some very impressive numbers, in 36 games played he had 28 goals and 20 assists for 48 points. He was also selected to the AMHL All-star team. Switzer has also been a clutch performer at the Mac’s AAA midget hockey tournament in Calgary, a very prestigious tournament. For the past two tournaments Brett has been named a 2nd team all-star, putting him in a very elite group. Adam Thompson, a 6’1” defenseman, has been very solid on the back end while putting up some very impressive offensive numbers at the same time. Adam has played a ton of minutes throughout the playoffs leading his team to the provincial championship. In 12 playoff games he has 3 goals and 4 assists for 7 points. He was just as steady in the regular season where in 36 games he had 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points. Thompson was selected as a starter for the AMHL All-Star game and at the skills competition finished second in the hardest shot. Adam was also selected as a 2nd team All-Star at the Mac’s AAA Midget hockey tournament. The Vernon Vipers would also like to wish the two good luck in the upcoming Pacific Championship where the Calgary Buffaloes will face off against the Cariboo Cougars
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Vernon 4 Merritt 1
November 21 2008, 10:31 PM
Was at tonights game as Vernon defeated Merritt 4-1 in front of 2,059 fans at the Wesbild Center.
1st Period: The Vipers got off to a quick start getting the puck in deep and really controlling the play down low, but couldnt get many shots or any chances. Vernon carried the better of the play in the early going but give the Centennials credit, they were keeping the Vipers to the outside, limiting shots as well as scoring chances. Vernons best scoring chance came just two minutes into the opening period as Chris Crowell fed a nice pass down low out front to Mike Collins, but Harrison May come up with the save in close. The play was held deep in the Cents end for most of the first half but it was still scoreless. Merritt didnt record there first shot on goal till six minutes into the 1st. Vernon would get the first powerplay of the game 12 minutes into the game but it was the Centennials who would open the scoring after Andrew Hammond made a bad pass up the middle, Alessio McMillan picked up the erand pass, dishing it off in the slot to, Paul Forster who rang a shot off the inside of the post wich beat Hammond shorthanded giving Merritt the 1-0 lead on just three shots on goal. Shots were 8-3 in favor of Vernon. This goal seemed to change the flow of tonights game as the Vipers seemed to get sloppy in there own end at times and were having all kinds of trouble generating any kind of offence. Vernons best chance to tie the game came when Connor Jones come down the wing, feeding a nice pass through the slot over to his brother Kellen Jones who rang his shot off the far post. The second half of the period was very scrambly with very few chances, alot of turn overs and poor decisions coming from both teams. Late in the period with just over 4 minutes remaining and the Vipers on a PP, Bryce Kakoske & Kyle Bigoes worked the puck back and forth before Kakoske fed a nice pass down low to a wide open Rob Short who beat May tying the game 1-1. It was 1-1 after 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Merritt 16-4. Most of the Vipers 16 shots fired towards Harrison May were easy wrist shots taken from the slot, with very little traffic in front. May saw most of the Vernon shots, wich were shot mostly right at him.
2nd Period: Merritt started off the 2nd on a powerplay wich was carried over from the end of the 1st period. Off the opening draw, the Cents got the puck in deep but Vernon quickly recovered the puck, sending it up ice catching Braden Pimm open all alone, Pimm went in for the breakaway but was stoped by May. With Merritt still on the powerplay, the Vipers would get into penalty trouble as Pimm was off for two minors giving the Cenntenials a two man advantage. Vernons strong penalty kill along with Merritts poor powerplay and the Vipers would kill off all three minors only giving up just three Centennial shots. This was a very scrambly and penalty filled period with the Vipers having to kill off seven minors playing most of the period shorthanded. The Vipers were very lucky Merritts powerplay wasnt clicking as the Cents could have burried the Vipers in the middle frame. Merritts best scoring chance came when Dustin Johnson was stopped by Andrew Hammond at the side of the goal. Very little scoring chances or shots from both teams in the 2nd. The Vipers best scoring chance came when Cory Kane made a nice move cutting through the neutral zone, dishing the puck off to Ryan Santana who wired a wrist shot from the slot but May come up with the big blocker save keeping the game tied 1-1. Vernon had just one powerplay chance but couldnt find the back of the net. A very non-entertaining period with very little flow. Vernon did play a physical 2nd laying out some solid checks sending a few Centennial players to the dressing room. Jordan Grant was hit hard by Kyle Bigos and had to head off to the dressing room, but did return to the bench. Kevin Philp took two solid checks and went down to the ice, heading off to the dressing room holding his arm, but did return to the Cents bench. Merritts strong forecheck through out tonights game was giving Vernon all kinds off trouble, the Cents really forechecked the Vipers, causing lots of turnovers in the Vipers zone, resulting in some odd man rushes or good scoring chances. It was tied 1-1 after 40 minutes of play.
3rd Period: Some good flow to start the 3rd with both teams creating some chances. The Centennials best chance of the final period came when Alex Goodship was stopped at the side og the goal by Hammond. Vernons defence played a solid defenisve 3rd making some nice defensive plays in there own end. Kevin Kraus broke up a two on one play, wich could have resulted in a scoring chance for Merritt. After the first five minutes Vernon stepped up there play, getting the puck in deep and really cycling the puck well down low, creating all kinds of space, resulting in some good scoring chances. Rob Short was stopped in close by May. Short played with alot of energy, getting all kinds of chances. Vipers were now skating circles in the Merritt end of the rink as the Cents were looking a little tired as Vernon was pouring on the presure. Rob Short with another good scoring chance, wired a quick shot from the circle, May kicked out the big rebound outfront where Cory Kane gobbled up the rebound but fired a shot high and wide over an empty net. About halfway through the 3rd Vipers finally solved May and took there first lead of the game, Captain Chris Crowell fed Mike Collins wearing Tyler Harltons old jersey #5 wired a high shot from the slot over Mays glove putting the Vipers up 2-1. The Vipers kept up the presure and forecheck, and while on the powerplay just four minutes later Mike Collins would score his 2nd goal of the night in almost the exact same spot, beating May once again high over the glove as Vernon jumped out to the 3-1 lead. Just over two minutes later the Vipers would put the game away as Sahir Gill made a nice pass out front, as James Kerr would tapp in the puck for his first goal as a Viper as Vernon was up 4-1 and now in full control. The final few minutes of the hockey game Vernon would just get the puck in deep, holding the puck along the end wall, taking some of the time off the clock. Merritt didnt seem to have much left in the tank as the Vipers got lucky and skated away with the 4-1 win, and now 4-0 against the Centennials this season. Vernon outshot Merritt 10-8.
Top Players: (Vernon)
Kevin Kraus played a solid defensive game for the Vipers. Kraus looked very solid on the backend, breaking up atleast two Centennial scoring chances. Kraus was Vernons best d-man tonight.
Mike Collins (2 goals) Collins had a great scoring chance two minutes into the game but was stopped in close by Harrison May. Collins score two real nice top shelf goals in the 3rd to give the Vipers the lead and the win.
James Kerr (1 goal) Kerr showed lots of hustle all night, adds some spark and jump to the Vipers lineup. Saw alot of icetime on the penalty kill, likes to go to the front of the net.
Cory Kane skated well, made some nice moves in close, had a great scoring chance midway through the 3rd. Was very solid up front. Rob Short (1 goal) Scored a nice powerplay goal in the 1st, had some good chances through out tonights game but couldnt find the back of the net. Played with alot of hustle, worked hard all night.
Top Players: (Merritt)
Jordan Grant saw a ton of icetime tonight. Had to have been on every second shift, was always buzzing around the Vernon net. Took some solid checks but didnt back down, was involved in the play all game. A good skater with some nice hands in close.
Paul Forster (1 goal) Played a good game up front for the Cents. Forster was another kid who always seemed to be around the goal, looking for the loose puck or fighting for a rebound. Jordan Soquilla played with some good jump, showed some quickness at times.
Game Thoughts: (Vernon)
The Vipers started off good, getting the puck in deep but couldnt generate any offence. Really dominated the play in the first half of the 1st period but after giving up the shorthanded goal, seemed to give up alot of turnovers, along with making some sloppy plays and poor decisions in there own end. Vernon was very lucky in the 2nd Merritts powerplay wasnt clicking or this could have been a different outcome in the final score, give the Vipers credit though, a very strong penalty kill, killing off 7 minors in the middle frame. Ive been very impressed with Vernons penalty kill over the last 5 or 6 games. Vipers havnt given up a powerplay goal in atleast there last four games. Vernons defence & goaltening has also stepped up there play, now having the best goals against in the League. Vipers played and looked much better in the 3rd, really taking it to Merritt for most of the period. This game could have gone either way, Vernon didnt want to lose to a team like Merritt when there fighting for top spot with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. Wasnt a very entertaining game, very sloppy at times with alot of penalties, taking away any flow from the game. Nice to see the Vipers gut out a win late in the 3rd.
Game Thoughts: (Merritt)
This was a much better performance from the Cents, compared to there last visit to Vernon. Merritt played well for the team they have, giving the Vipers all kinds of trouble, putting a little scare into them. I was very impressed with Merritts hardwork and great forecheck tonight. The Vipers were having all kinds of trouble with the Centennials forecheck all night. Merritt needs to work on there powerplay, they could have burried Vernon in the 2nd but couldnt generate many shots or even quality chances. A very poor looking PP tonight. Merritts defence looked pretty good in the first two periods, kept the Vipers shooters to the outside, not allowing any chances in close. You could see the Cents ran out of gas come the 3rd, they just couldnt keep up with the strong cyclying of Vernon down low, lost most of the one on one battles along the wall and in front of the goal. The Centennials were in the face of the Vipers for most of the night, alot of pushing and shoving after the whistle.
Scratches:
Vernon:
Steve Tresierra
John Digness
Trent Dorais
Kory Roy (AP)
Merritt:
Matt Mazzarolo
Jordan Zalba
Colton Sobchak
3 Stars:
1st Star: Mike Collins (2 goals)
2nd Star: Kevin Kraus
3rd Star: Rob Short (1 goal)
Was at tonights game as Vernon defeated Merritt 4-1 in front of 2,059 fans at the Wesbild Center.
1st Period: The Vipers got off to a quick start getting the puck in deep and really controlling the play down low, but couldnt get many shots or any chances. Vernon carried the better of the play in the early going but give the Centennials credit, they were keeping the Vipers to the outside, limiting shots as well as scoring chances. Vernons best scoring chance came just two minutes into the opening period as Chris Crowell fed a nice pass down low out front to Mike Collins, but Harrison May come up with the save in close. The play was held deep in the Cents end for most of the first half but it was still scoreless. Merritt didnt record there first shot on goal till six minutes into the 1st. Vernon would get the first powerplay of the game 12 minutes into the game but it was the Centennials who would open the scoring after Andrew Hammond made a bad pass up the middle, Alessio McMillan picked up the erand pass, dishing it off in the slot to, Paul Forster who rang a shot off the inside of the post wich beat Hammond shorthanded giving Merritt the 1-0 lead on just three shots on goal. Shots were 8-3 in favor of Vernon. This goal seemed to change the flow of tonights game as the Vipers seemed to get sloppy in there own end at times and were having all kinds of trouble generating any kind of offence. Vernons best chance to tie the game came when Connor Jones come down the wing, feeding a nice pass through the slot over to his brother Kellen Jones who rang his shot off the far post. The second half of the period was very scrambly with very few chances, alot of turn overs and poor decisions coming from both teams. Late in the period with just over 4 minutes remaining and the Vipers on a PP, Bryce Kakoske & Kyle Bigoes worked the puck back and forth before Kakoske fed a nice pass down low to a wide open Rob Short who beat May tying the game 1-1. It was 1-1 after 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Merritt 16-4. Most of the Vipers 16 shots fired towards Harrison May were easy wrist shots taken from the slot, with very little traffic in front. May saw most of the Vernon shots, wich were shot mostly right at him.
2nd Period: Merritt started off the 2nd on a powerplay wich was carried over from the end of the 1st period. Off the opening draw, the Cents got the puck in deep but Vernon quickly recovered the puck, sending it up ice catching Braden Pimm open all alone, Pimm went in for the breakaway but was stoped by May. With Merritt still on the powerplay, the Vipers would get into penalty trouble as Pimm was off for two minors giving the Cenntenials a two man advantage. Vernons strong penalty kill along with Merritts poor powerplay and the Vipers would kill off all three minors only giving up just three Centennial shots. This was a very scrambly and penalty filled period with the Vipers having to kill off seven minors playing most of the period shorthanded. The Vipers were very lucky Merritts powerplay wasnt clicking as the Cents could have burried the Vipers in the middle frame. Merritts best scoring chance came when Dustin Johnson was stopped by Andrew Hammond at the side of the goal. Very little scoring chances or shots from both teams in the 2nd. The Vipers best scoring chance came when Cory Kane made a nice move cutting through the neutral zone, dishing the puck off to Ryan Santana who wired a wrist shot from the slot but May come up with the big blocker save keeping the game tied 1-1. Vernon had just one powerplay chance but couldnt find the back of the net. A very non-entertaining period with very little flow. Vernon did play a physical 2nd laying out some solid checks sending a few Centennial players to the dressing room. Jordan Grant was hit hard by Kyle Bigos and had to head off to the dressing room, but did return to the bench. Kevin Philp took two solid checks and went down to the ice, heading off to the dressing room holding his arm, but did return to the Cents bench. Merritts strong forecheck through out tonights game was giving Vernon all kinds off trouble, the Cents really forechecked the Vipers, causing lots of turnovers in the Vipers zone, resulting in some odd man rushes or good scoring chances. It was tied 1-1 after 40 minutes of play.
3rd Period: Some good flow to start the 3rd with both teams creating some chances. The Centennials best chance of the final period came when Alex Goodship was stopped at the side og the goal by Hammond. Vernons defence played a solid defenisve 3rd making some nice defensive plays in there own end. Kevin Kraus broke up a two on one play, wich could have resulted in a scoring chance for Merritt. After the first five minutes Vernon stepped up there play, getting the puck in deep and really cycling the puck well down low, creating all kinds of space, resulting in some good scoring chances. Rob Short was stopped in close by May. Short played with alot of energy, getting all kinds of chances. Vipers were now skating circles in the Merritt end of the rink as the Cents were looking a little tired as Vernon was pouring on the presure. Rob Short with another good scoring chance, wired a quick shot from the circle, May kicked out the big rebound outfront where Cory Kane gobbled up the rebound but fired a shot high and wide over an empty net. About halfway through the 3rd Vipers finally solved May and took there first lead of the game, Captain Chris Crowell fed Mike Collins wearing Tyler Harltons old jersey #5 wired a high shot from the slot over Mays glove putting the Vipers up 2-1. The Vipers kept up the presure and forecheck, and while on the powerplay just four minutes later Mike Collins would score his 2nd goal of the night in almost the exact same spot, beating May once again high over the glove as Vernon jumped out to the 3-1 lead. Just over two minutes later the Vipers would put the game away as Sahir Gill made a nice pass out front, as James Kerr would tapp in the puck for his first goal as a Viper as Vernon was up 4-1 and now in full control. The final few minutes of the hockey game Vernon would just get the puck in deep, holding the puck along the end wall, taking some of the time off the clock. Merritt didnt seem to have much left in the tank as the Vipers got lucky and skated away with the 4-1 win, and now 4-0 against the Centennials this season. Vernon outshot Merritt 10-8.
Top Players: (Vernon)
Kevin Kraus played a solid defensive game for the Vipers. Kraus looked very solid on the backend, breaking up atleast two Centennial scoring chances. Kraus was Vernons best d-man tonight.
Mike Collins (2 goals) Collins had a great scoring chance two minutes into the game but was stopped in close by Harrison May. Collins score two real nice top shelf goals in the 3rd to give the Vipers the lead and the win.
James Kerr (1 goal) Kerr showed lots of hustle all night, adds some spark and jump to the Vipers lineup. Saw alot of icetime on the penalty kill, likes to go to the front of the net.
Cory Kane skated well, made some nice moves in close, had a great scoring chance midway through the 3rd. Was very solid up front. Rob Short (1 goal) Scored a nice powerplay goal in the 1st, had some good chances through out tonights game but couldnt find the back of the net. Played with alot of hustle, worked hard all night.
Top Players: (Merritt)
Jordan Grant saw a ton of icetime tonight. Had to have been on every second shift, was always buzzing around the Vernon net. Took some solid checks but didnt back down, was involved in the play all game. A good skater with some nice hands in close.
Paul Forster (1 goal) Played a good game up front for the Cents. Forster was another kid who always seemed to be around the goal, looking for the loose puck or fighting for a rebound. Jordan Soquilla played with some good jump, showed some quickness at times.
Game Thoughts: (Vernon)
The Vipers started off good, getting the puck in deep but couldnt generate any offence. Really dominated the play in the first half of the 1st period but after giving up the shorthanded goal, seemed to give up alot of turnovers, along with making some sloppy plays and poor decisions in there own end. Vernon was very lucky in the 2nd Merritts powerplay wasnt clicking or this could have been a different outcome in the final score, give the Vipers credit though, a very strong penalty kill, killing off 7 minors in the middle frame. Ive been very impressed with Vernons penalty kill over the last 5 or 6 games. Vipers havnt given up a powerplay goal in atleast there last four games. Vernons defence & goaltening has also stepped up there play, now having the best goals against in the League. Vipers played and looked much better in the 3rd, really taking it to Merritt for most of the period. This game could have gone either way, Vernon didnt want to lose to a team like Merritt when there fighting for top spot with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. Wasnt a very entertaining game, very sloppy at times with alot of penalties, taking away any flow from the game. Nice to see the Vipers gut out a win late in the 3rd.
Game Thoughts: (Merritt)
This was a much better performance from the Cents, compared to there last visit to Vernon. Merritt played well for the team they have, giving the Vipers all kinds of trouble, putting a little scare into them. I was very impressed with Merritts hardwork and great forecheck tonight. The Vipers were having all kinds of trouble with the Centennials forecheck all night. Merritt needs to work on there powerplay, they could have burried Vernon in the 2nd but couldnt generate many shots or even quality chances. A very poor looking PP tonight. Merritts defence looked pretty good in the first two periods, kept the Vipers shooters to the outside, not allowing any chances in close. You could see the Cents ran out of gas come the 3rd, they just couldnt keep up with the strong cyclying of Vernon down low, lost most of the one on one battles along the wall and in front of the goal. The Centennials were in the face of the Vipers for most of the night, alot of pushing and shoving after the whistle.
Scratches:
Vernon:
Steve Tresierra
John Digness
Trent Dorais
Kory Roy (AP)
Merritt:
Matt Mazzarolo
Jordan Zalba
Colton Sobchak
3 Stars:
1st Star: Mike Collins (2 goals)
2nd Star: Kevin Kraus
3rd Star: Rob Short (1 goal)
Vernon 4 Penticton 3 (Double Overtime)
Vernon 4 Penticton 3 (Double Overtime)
November 23 2008, 12:41 AM
Was at tonights game as Vernon defeated Penticton 4-3 in double overtime in front of 2,067 fans at the new South Okanagan Events Center.
1st Period: Vernon got control of the play early but didnt sustain any real solid presure, the Vipers were getting alot of quick shots from the slot off, most of the shots Jordan White managed see with no traffic in front. Vernon played a very physical game as both Connor & Kellen Jones laid out two solid checks early in the hockey game. Just a few minutes into the game Vernon would get the first powerplay and would take advantage. Andrew Hammond fired a long pass up ice catching the Vees on a bad linechange, Connor Jones would collect the puck, and then cut over the Vees blueline, making a nice pass across ice to a wide open Kellen Jones who put a nice move on White, waiting for White to go down and then roofing a shot high and over putting the Vipers up 1-0 just four and a half minutes into the period. Vernon looked very good in the early goings and were up 7-1 in favor of shots. The Vipers were firing shots towards White from almost anywhere, as White looked very shaky between the pipes for Penticton, letting out some wild rebounds. Vernon carried the better of the play for the first nine minutes outshooting the Vees 10-3. Rob Short & James Kerr went in two on one, as Short made a nice pass over to Kerr but White come up with the big save. Just before the midway mark, Penticton would finally get control of the puck, getting in deep in the Vernon zone, Colton Jobke took wich looked to be a harmless wrist shot from the point, wich beat Andrew Hammond low to the ice, going in off the post, tying the game 1-1. Hammond looked to have been screened on the play. Vernon couldnt seem to regroup after the Vees goal as Penticton stepped up there game looking much better in the 2nd half of the 1st. Penticton come close to taking the lead after Logan Johnston was stopped in close by Hammond. The Vees would get there first powerplay of the night and didnt waist anytime. Garrett Milan & Denver Manderson cut across the Vipers blueline, Milan took a shot from the slot, where Andrew Hammond made the first save but couldnt control the rebound and speedy Ryan Viselli made a nice move beating a down and out Hammond to give the Vees the 2-1 late in the 1st. Vernons defence was having all kinds of trouble clearing the puck in the 1st, coughing up the puck five or six times wich resulted in a turnover and a Penticton scoring chance. Hammond had to be sharpe as the Vees were buzzing, really carrying the play. Vernon gave up way too many odd man rushes. Penticton come close to taking a 3-1 lead late in the period but couldnt connect on two chances in close. The Vees were up 2-1 after 20 mins of play. Vernon outshot Penticton 16-8.
2nd Period: The Vipers would start the 2nd with a two man advantage but couldnt generate any quality shots or scoring chances. Pentictons penalty kill was very strong as the Vees killed off the two man advantage. Vernon looked good really moving the puck well, getting lots of shots towards White. White once again looked very shaky kicking out huge rebounds along with some very poor puck control. The Vees were keeping the Vipers to the outside, where most of Vernons shots were coming from. Pentictons best scoring chance came when Curtis McKenzie wired a shot from the point, but Hammond come up with the blocker save. The Vipers held the better of the play but couldnt capitalise on the big rebounds from White. With just over six minutes left in the period Cory Kane while falling to his knees wired a lazer wrist shot top shelf high over White tying the game 2-2. White didnt even see the shot. Off the insuing faceoff Captain Chris Crowell would get the puck in deep, Braden Pimm would have a scoring chance in close as White was down and out, Mike Collins was alone in front and would hit the empty net as Vernon took a 3-2 lead with two goals in about a minute. Late in the 2nd the Vees would go on a powerplay and with some nice passing from Denver Manderson & Matt Paltridge, newcomer Erik Slemp was stopped in close by Hammond, Hammond once again couldnt control the rebound and Slemp was there to get the second shot passed Hammond tying the game 3-3 with just over four minutes remaining. Vernon was the better team in the middle frame but the game was tied 3-3 after 40 mins of play. Vipers outshot the Vees 19-13.
3rd Period: Ryan Viselli would sneak inbehind the Vernon defence a minute and a half into the 3rd, going in all alone for the breakaway but Hammond come up with the huge toe save keeping the score tied. The Vees looked very strong and deadly in the Vipers zone as the poured on the presure, creating all kinds of chances in close. Penticton was flying, skating hard, really taking it to Vernon as the Vipers were being outskated, and outplayed for most of the final period. Andrew Hammond had to be ready as he was facing alot of rubber in the 3rd. Vernons defence was having all kinds of trouble with the Vees forecheck and quick puck movement. Matt Paltridge got a quick shot off from the circle but Hammond just got a piece of it. Hammond was the difference keeping the Vipers in the game, making some very tough saves with lots of white jerseys at the top of his crease. Vernon couldnt generate any offence, and when they did get the puck in deep, the Vees defence didnt give them much room for any real solid chances. Late in the 3rd the Vees would get a powerplay but couldnt beat Hammond. Penticton looked very strong on the breakout, using there speed and quickness to create chances. The Vipers were very lucky to excape the 3rd not giving up a goal, getting just two shots in the final six minutes of the game. The game was tied 3-3 after 60 mins of play. Penticton outshot Vernon 15-6.
Overtime: Some good flow at both ends of the rink, as the Vipers had some early chances, coming close on a scramble in front as Kellen Jones was stopped in close by Jordan White. With just over two minutes remaining in OT the Vipers would be called for a penalty giving the Vees a great chance to end tonights game. Penticton had all the time in the world to move the puck and setup a play as the Vipers sat back, as everyone was positioned in a small box in front of Andrew Hammond. The Vees worked the puck around good, trying to set up the bottom forward at the side of the net, but Vernons defence played very well, not giving the bottom forward anyroom to pick up the pass. The Vipers couldnt get the puck out on the penalty kill as Penticton had three or four big onetime shots from the point but all missed going high and wide. James Kerr was a rock on the penalty kill coming up with two huge blocked shots. In the final few seconds of the powerplay, d-man Devon Krogh had a wide open net as Hammond was down and out, but Krogh fired high and wide, missing the empty goal to end the game. Vernon was very lucky killing off the minor and excaping the first Overtime still tied 3-3.
Double Overtime: Penticton won the draw, Connor Jones stole the puck from the Penticton player, getting inbehind him and going in for the breakaway, Jones was hauled down as the Vipers were going to be rewarded with a penalty shot, but the play continued as the Vees didnt touch the puck, Kellen Jones was left all alone at the side of the Vees net, putting the puck passed White just ten seconds into OT as Vernon defeated Penticton 4-3 in Double Overtime. The Vipers are now 2-0 against the Vees this season. Vernon outshot Penticton 1-0.
Top Players: (Vernon)
Connor Jones (1 assist) & Kellen Jones (2 goals) played a heck of a game tonight. Both Jones twins played with alot of jump, skating hard, playing a physical game. Both Connor & Kellen really worked the puck well down low, as they were very hard to get off the puck inbehind the Vees goal.
Rob Short played another strong game for the Vipers. Short played his rugged style for most of the game, had some chances throughout the night.
Andrew Hammond (1 assist) Had troubles controlling the rebounds on the Vees 2nd and 3rd goals but played very solid in the 3rd, facing alot of shots from the slot and in close. Hammond made a nice tow save on Viselli's breakaway early to start the 3rd. Hammond looked very focused and played with a ton of confidence all night. Had lots of traffic in front of him in the 3rd but still somehow managed to see the puck through all that traffic. Hammond was the difference in the 3rd keeping Vernon in the game.
Mike Collins (1 goal) played a strong game up front. Collins showed some good hustle, driving to the goal most of the night.
Top Players: (Penticton)
Devon Krogh played a very defensive game on the Vees blueline. Jumped up into the play alot during the game, reads the ice well, likes to sneek in front the point, and get off a quick shot from the circle. Smooth skater.
Matt Paltridge (1 assist) Played a very offensive game, was always involved in the play down low, in front of Andrew Hammond. A very strong offensive minded d-man. Denver Manderson (2 assists) looked good up front. Hard to fight off the puck, very creative.
Ryan Viselli (1 goal) this kid has some wheels and nice hands. Was buzzing all over the ice in the first two periods. Had a great chance to give the Vees the lead early in the 3rd but couldnt beat Hammond on the breakaway.
Erik Slemp (1 goal & 1 assist) Looked good for most of the game. Not the biggest kid but didnt shy away from the physical game.
Game Thoughts: (Vernon)
The Vipers started off the game with alot of quick shots from the slot, but didnt have many quailty shots or scoring chances throughout tonights game. With Jordan White giving up big rebounds, the Vipers should have had guys driving to the net, looking for the rebounds. Vipers struggled on the powerplay and in there own end. The defence was having all kinds of trouble clearing the zone, coughing up the puck and giving up way too many odd man rushes. Some poor passing when breaking out from inbehind the goal, wich resulted in a turnover and a Vees scoring chance. Vernon needs to play better defensively in there own end. With the Vees just four pts back before tonights game, this was a big win for the Vipers.
Game Thoughts: (Penticton)
Penticton is a quick team with alot of speed and good puck movement. Real nice breakout, had alot of odd man rushes. The Vees have one if not the best powerplay in the league, scored two PP goals tonight. Penticton dosnt give you much room create chances or setup, as they play a very tight checking game, most of Vernons shots were from the outside, as the Vees defence did a great job at keeping the Vipers to the outside for most of the night. Penticton had many chances to win tonights game in the 3rd and the first Overtime but couldnt beat Hammond. Missed some great chances in OT missing the net shooting high and wide. I wasnt impressed with Jordan White at all, this kid looked very shaky throughout tonights game. Gives out huge rebounds on almost every shot, has alot of trouble handling the puck as well. Like I said before, most of the Vernon shots he faced were not very quality shots, most taken from the slot with no traffic in front. This was a great game to watch, very entertaining and well worth the drive down. I thought I heard someone say this was the Vees first loss at home?
Scratches:
Vernon:
Steve Tresierra
Cole Ikkala
Trent Dorais
Kory Roy
Penticton:
Nicholas Goyens
Brad Reid
3 Stars:
1st Star: Kellen Jones (2 goals)
2nd Star: Connor Jones (1 assist)
3rd Star: Jordan White
This was my first visit to the new South Okanagan Events Center. Wow what a incredible rink you fans got in Penticton, great job, you deserve it! Im in love with the huge jumbotron scoreclock and nice looking restaraunt. I think $16 a ticket is a little much for Junior A Hockey, along with the $8 beer, wow! I do have to say there wasnt much for lighting inside, the ice surface looked very dark up the middle and in the corners along with behind the nets. This rink dosnt nearly have the same amount of lights as the Vernon Wesbild Center. I also have to say its very dark inside, the dark coloured seats along with all the grey concrete and dark coloured trim. I much more prefer and like the bright blue seats and coloured roof at the Wesbild Center, very bright and colourful inside. I also wasnt a big fan of not being able to eat inside at the restaraunt-pub. You can only eat-get into the Vault as they call it, only if you have club seats at $21 each and then $20 for a buffet, thats a little much I think. I was looking forward to having dinner before the game in the restaraunt, but because I didnt have a club seat, I couldnt get in. It was pretty empty inside before the game, they should allow any fans who want to eat, to be able to come inside and enjoy a nice meal. Just my thoughts. A great rink overall! Best in the league by far!
November 23 2008, 12:41 AM
Was at tonights game as Vernon defeated Penticton 4-3 in double overtime in front of 2,067 fans at the new South Okanagan Events Center.
1st Period: Vernon got control of the play early but didnt sustain any real solid presure, the Vipers were getting alot of quick shots from the slot off, most of the shots Jordan White managed see with no traffic in front. Vernon played a very physical game as both Connor & Kellen Jones laid out two solid checks early in the hockey game. Just a few minutes into the game Vernon would get the first powerplay and would take advantage. Andrew Hammond fired a long pass up ice catching the Vees on a bad linechange, Connor Jones would collect the puck, and then cut over the Vees blueline, making a nice pass across ice to a wide open Kellen Jones who put a nice move on White, waiting for White to go down and then roofing a shot high and over putting the Vipers up 1-0 just four and a half minutes into the period. Vernon looked very good in the early goings and were up 7-1 in favor of shots. The Vipers were firing shots towards White from almost anywhere, as White looked very shaky between the pipes for Penticton, letting out some wild rebounds. Vernon carried the better of the play for the first nine minutes outshooting the Vees 10-3. Rob Short & James Kerr went in two on one, as Short made a nice pass over to Kerr but White come up with the big save. Just before the midway mark, Penticton would finally get control of the puck, getting in deep in the Vernon zone, Colton Jobke took wich looked to be a harmless wrist shot from the point, wich beat Andrew Hammond low to the ice, going in off the post, tying the game 1-1. Hammond looked to have been screened on the play. Vernon couldnt seem to regroup after the Vees goal as Penticton stepped up there game looking much better in the 2nd half of the 1st. Penticton come close to taking the lead after Logan Johnston was stopped in close by Hammond. The Vees would get there first powerplay of the night and didnt waist anytime. Garrett Milan & Denver Manderson cut across the Vipers blueline, Milan took a shot from the slot, where Andrew Hammond made the first save but couldnt control the rebound and speedy Ryan Viselli made a nice move beating a down and out Hammond to give the Vees the 2-1 late in the 1st. Vernons defence was having all kinds of trouble clearing the puck in the 1st, coughing up the puck five or six times wich resulted in a turnover and a Penticton scoring chance. Hammond had to be sharpe as the Vees were buzzing, really carrying the play. Vernon gave up way too many odd man rushes. Penticton come close to taking a 3-1 lead late in the period but couldnt connect on two chances in close. The Vees were up 2-1 after 20 mins of play. Vernon outshot Penticton 16-8.
2nd Period: The Vipers would start the 2nd with a two man advantage but couldnt generate any quality shots or scoring chances. Pentictons penalty kill was very strong as the Vees killed off the two man advantage. Vernon looked good really moving the puck well, getting lots of shots towards White. White once again looked very shaky kicking out huge rebounds along with some very poor puck control. The Vees were keeping the Vipers to the outside, where most of Vernons shots were coming from. Pentictons best scoring chance came when Curtis McKenzie wired a shot from the point, but Hammond come up with the blocker save. The Vipers held the better of the play but couldnt capitalise on the big rebounds from White. With just over six minutes left in the period Cory Kane while falling to his knees wired a lazer wrist shot top shelf high over White tying the game 2-2. White didnt even see the shot. Off the insuing faceoff Captain Chris Crowell would get the puck in deep, Braden Pimm would have a scoring chance in close as White was down and out, Mike Collins was alone in front and would hit the empty net as Vernon took a 3-2 lead with two goals in about a minute. Late in the 2nd the Vees would go on a powerplay and with some nice passing from Denver Manderson & Matt Paltridge, newcomer Erik Slemp was stopped in close by Hammond, Hammond once again couldnt control the rebound and Slemp was there to get the second shot passed Hammond tying the game 3-3 with just over four minutes remaining. Vernon was the better team in the middle frame but the game was tied 3-3 after 40 mins of play. Vipers outshot the Vees 19-13.
3rd Period: Ryan Viselli would sneak inbehind the Vernon defence a minute and a half into the 3rd, going in all alone for the breakaway but Hammond come up with the huge toe save keeping the score tied. The Vees looked very strong and deadly in the Vipers zone as the poured on the presure, creating all kinds of chances in close. Penticton was flying, skating hard, really taking it to Vernon as the Vipers were being outskated, and outplayed for most of the final period. Andrew Hammond had to be ready as he was facing alot of rubber in the 3rd. Vernons defence was having all kinds of trouble with the Vees forecheck and quick puck movement. Matt Paltridge got a quick shot off from the circle but Hammond just got a piece of it. Hammond was the difference keeping the Vipers in the game, making some very tough saves with lots of white jerseys at the top of his crease. Vernon couldnt generate any offence, and when they did get the puck in deep, the Vees defence didnt give them much room for any real solid chances. Late in the 3rd the Vees would get a powerplay but couldnt beat Hammond. Penticton looked very strong on the breakout, using there speed and quickness to create chances. The Vipers were very lucky to excape the 3rd not giving up a goal, getting just two shots in the final six minutes of the game. The game was tied 3-3 after 60 mins of play. Penticton outshot Vernon 15-6.
Overtime: Some good flow at both ends of the rink, as the Vipers had some early chances, coming close on a scramble in front as Kellen Jones was stopped in close by Jordan White. With just over two minutes remaining in OT the Vipers would be called for a penalty giving the Vees a great chance to end tonights game. Penticton had all the time in the world to move the puck and setup a play as the Vipers sat back, as everyone was positioned in a small box in front of Andrew Hammond. The Vees worked the puck around good, trying to set up the bottom forward at the side of the net, but Vernons defence played very well, not giving the bottom forward anyroom to pick up the pass. The Vipers couldnt get the puck out on the penalty kill as Penticton had three or four big onetime shots from the point but all missed going high and wide. James Kerr was a rock on the penalty kill coming up with two huge blocked shots. In the final few seconds of the powerplay, d-man Devon Krogh had a wide open net as Hammond was down and out, but Krogh fired high and wide, missing the empty goal to end the game. Vernon was very lucky killing off the minor and excaping the first Overtime still tied 3-3.
Double Overtime: Penticton won the draw, Connor Jones stole the puck from the Penticton player, getting inbehind him and going in for the breakaway, Jones was hauled down as the Vipers were going to be rewarded with a penalty shot, but the play continued as the Vees didnt touch the puck, Kellen Jones was left all alone at the side of the Vees net, putting the puck passed White just ten seconds into OT as Vernon defeated Penticton 4-3 in Double Overtime. The Vipers are now 2-0 against the Vees this season. Vernon outshot Penticton 1-0.
Top Players: (Vernon)
Connor Jones (1 assist) & Kellen Jones (2 goals) played a heck of a game tonight. Both Jones twins played with alot of jump, skating hard, playing a physical game. Both Connor & Kellen really worked the puck well down low, as they were very hard to get off the puck inbehind the Vees goal.
Rob Short played another strong game for the Vipers. Short played his rugged style for most of the game, had some chances throughout the night.
Andrew Hammond (1 assist) Had troubles controlling the rebounds on the Vees 2nd and 3rd goals but played very solid in the 3rd, facing alot of shots from the slot and in close. Hammond made a nice tow save on Viselli's breakaway early to start the 3rd. Hammond looked very focused and played with a ton of confidence all night. Had lots of traffic in front of him in the 3rd but still somehow managed to see the puck through all that traffic. Hammond was the difference in the 3rd keeping Vernon in the game.
Mike Collins (1 goal) played a strong game up front. Collins showed some good hustle, driving to the goal most of the night.
Top Players: (Penticton)
Devon Krogh played a very defensive game on the Vees blueline. Jumped up into the play alot during the game, reads the ice well, likes to sneek in front the point, and get off a quick shot from the circle. Smooth skater.
Matt Paltridge (1 assist) Played a very offensive game, was always involved in the play down low, in front of Andrew Hammond. A very strong offensive minded d-man. Denver Manderson (2 assists) looked good up front. Hard to fight off the puck, very creative.
Ryan Viselli (1 goal) this kid has some wheels and nice hands. Was buzzing all over the ice in the first two periods. Had a great chance to give the Vees the lead early in the 3rd but couldnt beat Hammond on the breakaway.
Erik Slemp (1 goal & 1 assist) Looked good for most of the game. Not the biggest kid but didnt shy away from the physical game.
Game Thoughts: (Vernon)
The Vipers started off the game with alot of quick shots from the slot, but didnt have many quailty shots or scoring chances throughout tonights game. With Jordan White giving up big rebounds, the Vipers should have had guys driving to the net, looking for the rebounds. Vipers struggled on the powerplay and in there own end. The defence was having all kinds of trouble clearing the zone, coughing up the puck and giving up way too many odd man rushes. Some poor passing when breaking out from inbehind the goal, wich resulted in a turnover and a Vees scoring chance. Vernon needs to play better defensively in there own end. With the Vees just four pts back before tonights game, this was a big win for the Vipers.
Game Thoughts: (Penticton)
Penticton is a quick team with alot of speed and good puck movement. Real nice breakout, had alot of odd man rushes. The Vees have one if not the best powerplay in the league, scored two PP goals tonight. Penticton dosnt give you much room create chances or setup, as they play a very tight checking game, most of Vernons shots were from the outside, as the Vees defence did a great job at keeping the Vipers to the outside for most of the night. Penticton had many chances to win tonights game in the 3rd and the first Overtime but couldnt beat Hammond. Missed some great chances in OT missing the net shooting high and wide. I wasnt impressed with Jordan White at all, this kid looked very shaky throughout tonights game. Gives out huge rebounds on almost every shot, has alot of trouble handling the puck as well. Like I said before, most of the Vernon shots he faced were not very quality shots, most taken from the slot with no traffic in front. This was a great game to watch, very entertaining and well worth the drive down. I thought I heard someone say this was the Vees first loss at home?
Scratches:
Vernon:
Steve Tresierra
Cole Ikkala
Trent Dorais
Kory Roy
Penticton:
Nicholas Goyens
Brad Reid
3 Stars:
1st Star: Kellen Jones (2 goals)
2nd Star: Connor Jones (1 assist)
3rd Star: Jordan White
This was my first visit to the new South Okanagan Events Center. Wow what a incredible rink you fans got in Penticton, great job, you deserve it! Im in love with the huge jumbotron scoreclock and nice looking restaraunt. I think $16 a ticket is a little much for Junior A Hockey, along with the $8 beer, wow! I do have to say there wasnt much for lighting inside, the ice surface looked very dark up the middle and in the corners along with behind the nets. This rink dosnt nearly have the same amount of lights as the Vernon Wesbild Center. I also have to say its very dark inside, the dark coloured seats along with all the grey concrete and dark coloured trim. I much more prefer and like the bright blue seats and coloured roof at the Wesbild Center, very bright and colourful inside. I also wasnt a big fan of not being able to eat inside at the restaraunt-pub. You can only eat-get into the Vault as they call it, only if you have club seats at $21 each and then $20 for a buffet, thats a little much I think. I was looking forward to having dinner before the game in the restaraunt, but because I didnt have a club seat, I couldnt get in. It was pretty empty inside before the game, they should allow any fans who want to eat, to be able to come inside and enjoy a nice meal. Just my thoughts. A great rink overall! Best in the league by far!
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