Michigan Hockey November, 28, 2011

mihockeynow.com V.22 : I.9 | November28, 2011 FIRST CLASS

HIGH SCHOOL PREVIEW - This year’s leaders

NOVEMBER 28, 2011 VOLUME 22: ISSUE 9

High School PreviewIt’s that time of year again – high school hockey is here. Check out eight pages of coverage with a special Hometown Hero featuring some of the state’s captains.

Ukrainian team takes on the Suburban Stars for games, and then dinner

Mark Howe joins his dad in the Hockey Hall of Fame

Darren Eliot shares his love for high school hockey

To advertise in Michigan Hockey please contact Lucia Zuzga at (248) 479-1134 or [email protected] or Michael Caples at (248) 479-1136 or [email protected]

LOOK FOR OUR NEXT ISSUEDECEMBER 19, 2011

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18 40 42

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MICHIGANTHE LOCKER ROOM Let’s have some fun

6

SLIDESHOW Hockey happenings from across the Mitten

8

SPEAKING OF HOCKEY What is the best hockey game you have ever played?

10

GET BETTERThree zone skill development

12

YOU SHOULD KNOWMuskegon’s Max Shuart

14

HOMETOWN HERO This year’s high school captains

22

PLYMOUTH WHALERS Whalers’ Bathgate more than just a famous name

34

NAHLContinuing to feed NCAA programs

32

SAGINAW SPIRIT Saginaw gives John McFarland a new lease on hockey

35

GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS Rejuvenated Johnson leading the charge

38

TOURNAMENT CALENDARThe latest tournament listings

28

Youth HockeyRed Wings insider Last Line

4 Michigan Hockey November 28, 2011 V.22 : I.9MIHOCKEYNOW.COM

Photos at left: (from L to R): Novi locker room (Brian Kalisher/Michigan Hockey), Suburban Stars with Ukrainian team (Susan Bottrell), and Gordie and Mark Howe, with Mark’s daughter (Dan Swint, PDQ Photo)

Cover: Photos by Michael Caples/Michigan HockeyDesign by Chuck Stevens/Michigan Hockey

Cover reprints availablee-mail: [email protected]

EDITORIAL BOARD: Bob DeSpirt, Christine Knight, Derek Blair, James Jenkins, Julie Pardoski, Kirk Vickers, Linda Holland, Lisa Zarzycki, Mark Vansaw, Nyron Fauconier, Randy Paquette, Rob Mattina, Susan Bottrell, Tim Wilson, Todd Krygier

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: MICHIGAN HOCKEY® welcomes Letters to the Editor. E-mail [email protected]

MICHIGAN HOCKEY is published by SUBURBAN SPORTS COMMUNICATIONS, LLC 23995 Freeway Park Drive, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48335-2829. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MICHIGAN HOCKEY®, 23995 Freeway Park Drive, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48335-2829. ©2011 by Suburban Sports Communications. All Rights Reserved. The opinions and views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of MICHIGAN HOCKEY or its advertisers. All editorial copy, photographs and advertising materials remain the property of MICHIGAN HOCKEY.

EDITORMichael [email protected]

MICHIGAN HOCKEY

ADVERTISINGLucia [email protected]

DESIGNChuck Stevens

MICHIGAN HOCKEY STAFFBrian [email protected]

DISTRIBUTIONLucia Zuzga

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTORAmy Jones

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & PROGRAMMING

Darren EliotBY MICHAEL CAPLES

Welcome to our high school hockey preview edition of Michigan Hockey. I hope you learn something – I know I sure did.

It’s been about six years since I was last involved with high school hockey; I spent about two weeks with the var-sity squad before a broken and dislocated ankle forced me to spend a whole lot more time on my role as managing editor of our school newspaper (which I can’t say was the worst thing in the world, at this point in my life). I thought that it would be an easy task to familiarize myself with the world of high school hockey once again, but I quickly learned that there are plenty of new faces and programs across this state that I had never heard of before.

It has been a wonderful experience to speak with many of the coaches through email, and to especially meet the captains who were in attendance for our photo shoot at Novi Ice Arena. To hear that people drove many hours just so that they could be a part of this publication was very

moving for me. It speaks to the dedication and love for the sport that we all share in this state – nothing tops the hockey family that we all are lucky enough to belong to.

We want to cover as much high school hockey as we can this season (and those that follow), but obviously we can’t have a staff writer in every rink in the state. That’s why I’m asking you - the parents, coaches, players and fans – to share in the experience with us. Tell us how a team did on social media. Send me a recap of a game or some photos (or both). This is our game - we should all get to cover it.

Best of luck to everyone involved with high school hock-ey this season. And thanks again to the players and parents who turned out for our photo shoot, and the coaches who helped us assemble this issue.

See you around the rink,

@michaelcaples

MICHIGAN HOCKEY’S MONTHLY CONTEST

VISIT MIHOCKEYNOW.COM/MICHIGAN-HOCKEYS-MONTHLY-CONTEST/

ENTER FOR THE CHANCE TO WIN AN 18X24 INCH PERSONALIZED DIGITAL ART RENDERING OF YOU, THE HOCKEY PLAYER.

FROM THE EDITOR

MICHIGAN HOCKEY23995 Freeway Park Drive�•�Suite 200Farmington Hills, MI 48335-2829(248) 478-2500 • FAX: (248) 478-1601E-MAIL: [email protected]: mihockeynow.com

November 28, 2011 V.22 : I.9 5Michigan HockeyMIHOCKEYNOW.COM

TALES FROM THE RINK

TWO FOR TWEETING

THE SCORESHEET

Plenty of people in the Twittersphere, including Kevin Allen, were talking about Sidney Crosby’s expected return after a 10-month absence from a concussion.

Members of the MSU hockey team got caught in an elevator before their weekend series with Northern Michigan.

Defenseman Brendan Smith made his debut with the Red Wings on Nov. 17 in San Jose.

If hockey stores had huge deals on Black Friday, and you could buy one thing, what would it be?

Joe Proulx shared this story with us on Facebook. Have a story as good as his? Tell us, at Facebook.com/MiHockeyNow:

“I was at the beach with my four-year-old over the summer and we came across an old school Super Chexx at an arcade. A hockey nut, he went crazy and begged me to play. I put in two quarters and he grabbed the rods for Team USA, barely able to see over the top of the table. I took hold of Vladislav Tretiak and waited for the anthem to fi nish. The puck popped up, and to my surprise, landed right in front of Tretiak. He took his miniature Mark Johnson and tapped it in for an easy goal. Over and over he’d score, and the puck would pop out of center ice and land right in front of my net. I pretended to be mad at the faulty face-off mechanism, but I was secretly loving everything about it. Each time he scored it was like Eruzione’s goal all over again. Team USA won 8-0 and none of my skill players so much as touched the puck, but more importantly, I had one of the best hockey dad moments I’ve ever had. Thank you Super Chexx. Thank you faulty puck popper mechanism. ”

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THE LOCKER ROOM

What a save!: This was my son’s fi rst time as goalie. It was taken at a mini-mite tournament. Not bad for a bunch of 6-year-olds!

(Photo submitted by Kristen Felczak Buckley)

(John Kalmar/Michigan Hockey)


THE

LOCKERROOM

1. Manon Rheaume tournament: 19U Honeybaked defeated the Southwest Wildcats of Windsor 4-1 in the championship game of the Manon Rheaume Tournament. Tori Sullivan was named the game’s MVP with two goals and an assist.(reader submission)

2. The Michigan Wolverines gather around their net before their game against the Ohio State Buckeyes on Friday, Nov. 18. Michigan lost 2-1.(Michael Caples/Michigan Hockey)

3,4. Here’s a sneak peek at a portion of the photo shoot we conducted for the high school captains that will be featured on MiHockeyNow.com. That’s a ‘before-and-after’ of Canton captain Zach Cox. (Michael Caples/Michigan Hockey)

5. Since signing a contract extension, Niklas Kronwall has been one of the best performers for the Red Wings. The 30-year-old defenseman has six goals and four assists in 19 games for Detroit this season. Those six markers tie him for second on the team with captain Nicklas Lidstrom, and are just four behind Johan Franzen’s team-leading ten goals.(Tom Turrill/Michigan Hockey)

SLIDESHOW

MICHIGAN HOCKEY IN PICTURES: AROUND THE MITTEN

2

3 4

1

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SPEAKING OF HOCKEY

ofSpeaking HockeyWhat is the best hockey game or video game you have ever played?

NHL Slapshot for Wii (my son and I have a season going and we’re undefeated).”— Rob Sowles

“It has got to be “Ice Hockey” for the Nintendo. Not only did you get to play as the United States and represent your country, but you also got to choose what kind of line up you put on the ice. You could choose all ginders, all speedsters or all all-around players, not to mention you could mix and match them. This game was always a win!”— Paul Henderson

“BLADES OF STEEL!!!! Enough said,”— Shea Austin

“The hockey game I played on the ice sunday. Duh! Best game you can play! Real hockey.”— Nicholas Root

Visit our Facebook page to see more answers, facebook.com/mihockeynow

EA Sports (NHL Slapshot for Wii), Konami (Blades of Steel), Electronic Arts (Mutant League Hockey), Oakland Press (Howell hockey), Nintendo (Ice Hockey)

“Mutant League Hockey for Sega Genesis.”— Scott Lenard


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RECIPES FOR Hockey Moms

ROAST TURKEY BREAST WITH

GLAZED VEGETABLES

2 tablespoonsextra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon honey

1 pound sweetpotatoes, halved orquartered if large

1 pound smallparsnips, peeled andhalved

1 bulb fennel,thinly sliced, plus 2tablespoons choppedfronds

1 large red onion, cutinto 8 wedges

1/2 cup dried apricots

2 to 3 sprigs rosemary,plus 1/2 teaspoonchopped rosemaryleaves

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

1 small clove garlic, minced

Grated zest and juiceof 1/2 lemon

1 skin-on, bone-inturkey breast half (3 1/4 to 4 pounds)

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Whisk 1tablespoon olive oil, the honey and 2 tablespoons water in a bowl. Put the potatoes, parsnips, fennel slices, onion, dried apricots and rosemary sprigsin a roasting pan. Add 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper, drizzle with the honey mixture and toss.Roast until the vegetables soften, about 30 minutes, stirring once.

Meanwhile, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, the garlic, lemon zest and chopped rosemary in asmall bowl. Rub the herb mixture under and over the turkey skin. Season with salt and pepper andbring the meat to room temperature.

Place the turkey on top of the vegetables in the pan; roast until the skin browns and a thermometerinserted into the thickest part registers 165 degreesF, 1 hour to 1 hour, 15 minutes. (Cover with foil if theskin is getting too dark.) Transfer the turkey to a cutting board and let rest 20 minutes.

Toss the roasted vegetables with the lemon juice and fennel fronds. Slice the turkey and serve withthe vegetables.

Contact Lucia @ 248-479-1134 if youwould like to sponsor this unique program.(Photograph courtesy Jonny Valiant/Food Network)

THREE ZONE SKILL DEVELOPMENT

GETBETTERPOWERED BY

GET BETTER

Key Points: Skating, Defensive Positioning/Angling, Compete Level & proper use of Body Positioning.

Coaches have taken to using stations to maximize development time while on-ice, especially with the younger teams. This example of using the three zones effi ciently is a technique to keep in mind even when working with older, bigger players. The concept is the same – development never stops!

Organization Divide players up into three equal groups.

Drill 1: 1-on-1 Confrontations Point Shot - First shot from the point; on the second shot the forward tries to skate around the defenseman in front of the net to get himself in a position for a goal-mouth pass from the coach.

Drill 2: Figure 8 Top Speed Pair - F1 skates backwards at top speed

with F2 skating forward at top speed. Both players are skating a fi gure-8 using cross-unders at top speed - one in front of the other. Both lines go at the same time in opposite directions.

Drill 3: Angle Checking 2 on 1 - The defensive player tries to angle the puck-carrier in a 1-on-1 situation before it becomes a 2-on-1 situation. If the off ensive player gets the net, the defensive read turns to 2-on-1 protection.Variation

Goalies In the net at each end, seeing end zone drills at least once each.

The following is an excerpt from an article written by Jim Johnson for fl exxCOACH.com


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max shuartFor players hoping to turn hockey into a career, moving away

from home is a reality at a very early age. And while 17-year-

old Max Shuart might not be with his parents in Northville right

now, at least he knows he’s going to be within state lines for

the foreseeable future. The gifted forward went from playing for

AAA Victory Honda to the USHL’s Muskegon Lumberjacks last

season, and sometime soon, he’ll be playing for the University

of Michigan. But for right now, the Wolverines commit is honing

his skills with the Lumberjacks, both in games within the Mitten,

and beyond.


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Looking for extended coverage of your favorite pro teams? How about college or

juniors? Or even high school hockey?

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SHAVED ICE wake upto hockey

MiHockeyNow also introduces “Shaved Ice,” a daily blog giving you quick hits, recaps, videos and awesome hockey-related links.

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There are many actions a goaltender can take that can control the pace of the game. Sometimes your team is reel-ing, tired and in need of a rest or some instruction from your coach. Long penalty kills, last minute leads and quick goals against are examples of situations where you must take charge and help your team get rested and organized.

1) Ramping pucks into the crowd - If you need a whistle you should smoother anything near the net, ice the puck or ramp up a hard low shot into the crowd. Pro goaltenders are very slick in this area.

2) Force a whistle - If you have covered a puck and the referee wants you to play it carry it in your glove towards an opponent who is close by. You shouldn’t get a delay of game call if the opponent is close by.

3) Loose strap - During a stoppage of play you can get a few extra seconds of rest by calling over one of your play-ers. Start fi ddling with a strap and only begin to really try to fi x it when the referee begins to get impatient.

4) Net off the moorings - On scrambles in front, be pre-pared to “accidentally” knock the net off the moorings. A good time is when an opponent is pushed into your net or when you are moving back to hug your post. Watch that it isn’t blatant and be very careful in the last two minutes of the game.

5) Hole in the ice - When the play is at the other end use

the heel of your skate and take a big chunk out of the ice. Do this just to the side of the net so it won’t trip you up lat-er. During the next stoppage of play, scream at the referee or one of your teammates to advise them of the problem.

6) The Missing Contact - Unless the referee is on your Christmas list he will probably have no idea that you don’t wear contacts. By the same token if you do wear contacts, they probably won’t check your eye to see if it still in there. Again, get one of your teammates over to help you in your search for the elusive missing contact.

YOUR BEST FRIEND - THE REFEREEI am a fi rm believer that a good relationship with the

referee will save your team dozens of goals against ev-ery year, and give your team the edge when it comes to questionable calls. We have all seen Ron Hextall go bal-listic when he thinks a goal shouldn’t have counted. Do you think this helps anything? In reality the referees will likely try to call a penalty on Ronny later because he tried to show up the referee.

MY ADVICEThere is no one on your team, including the captain, who

will have the same opportunity to talk to the referee as you do. Every defensive zone face off he will be standing within 10 feet of you and every puck you smoother will bring him nearby. This is a great opportunity. Referees are supposed

to be impartial, but they are human. If the referee likes you he will be less likely to call a penalty or a questionable goal against you. Early in the game start with the small talk, and even though the game is incredibly intense, stay low key and relaxed with him. Ask him if he is going out after the game. Ask him if his kids play hockey. Thank him for a helpful call. This advice may sound cheesy but it works. Screaming at the referee will never help you.

I can give you many examples of how this worked for me but what follows is the best one. My approach to the referee in this case didn’t help during the current game but later in the year I was rewarded. During the last minute of a game in the IHL I had a shutout going and our team had a safe three-goal lead. Famous NHL referee Don Van Mas-senhoven was standing against the boards as my defense tried to clear the puck around the boards. The harmless clear glanced off Don’s big skates right on to the stick of a Muskegeon Lumberjack. My shutout vanished and I skated over to Donny to thank him. I had a big smile on my face and he knew I wasn’t that steamed.

Don refereed another four or fi ve of my games the rest of the year and on at least four occasions gave me quick whistles that saved me from a goal against.

The point is clear - if you treat them right, chances are they will help you later.

GOALIE SCHOOL

CONTROLLING THE PACE OF THE GAMEBY STEVE MCKICHAN, FUTURE PRO GOAL PRESIDENT

FUTURE PRO GOAL


YOUTH HOCKEY

The Grosse Pointe-based 1997 Michigan Ice Hawks won the Major Bantam AAA division of the Bauer Invitational Hockey Tournament held in Chicago, Nov. 4-6. The Ice Hawks won all seven games they played, outscoring their opponents 30-6. The Bauer Invitational is one of the na-tion’s premier AAA and Elite AAA tournament of the year. Forty teams from 12 states from around the United States, Russia and Canada played in the Ice Hawks’ Major Bantam AAA division.

The Ice Hawks round-robin victories were 4-0 over Lit-tleton, CO; 5-1 over the AAA Alliance Bulldogs from Texas; 3-0 over the Southpointe PA Rinkrats; and 8-0 over the Dundee IL Leafs. The Ice Hawks defeated the AAA Lamb-ton Sarnia Sting 3-2 on the quarterfi nals. In the semi-fi nals,

AAA Team Seattle, WA succumbed to the Ice Hawks, 4-0. The championship pitted the Ice Hawks against the AAA Atlanta Fire. In a back-and-forth game, the Ice Hawks pre-vailed to win the championship 4-3.

In addition to winning the Bauer Invitational, the Ice Hawks were champions of the Belle Tire South “Back to School Classic” and fi nalist in the AAA Border City Cup in Sarnia. Learn more about the Ice Hawks at www.97mihhockey.com.

Note: The following article is a reader submission from a parent, coach, or player. If you would like your team fea-tured on our website, please email Michael Caples at [email protected]

HAZEL PARK - The words “travel hockey” mean many things for youth players and their families. Long car trips with dad – check. Weekends playing mini-sticks in strange,

faraway hotel rooms – you bet. But imagine coming to the rink and competing against a team that traveled not hundreds, but thousands of miles for the game.

That’s exactly what happened on Nov. 13, when the ’97 Suburban Stars showed up at Viking Arena in Hazel Park to take on Druzhba ‘78 from Ukraine. That’s right – a team from Eastern Europe. The Ukrainian players arrived in vans at 5:30 in the morning with the fi rst game not starting until 9:30 a.m. They had driven all night from Chicago, where they took part in the Bauer Invitational Tournament as part of the Elite AAA division, to play a morning and evening game with the Stars.

Despite being a bit tired after the fi rst game against the Stars, members of the Ukraine team spent the afternoon hanging out with their opponents – a learning experience for all parties involved.

“I noticed they were pretty tired and they fell asleep in the car on the way home,” said Eric Babler, father of Stars’ goaltender Matthew Babler. “They slept for a couple hours at home and then my wife cooked them lunch – hamburgers and stuff .”

If that doesn’t sound like a typical afternoon for the average American teenage hockey player, then maybe the rest of the afternoon will spark a memory or two. After a nap on their hosts’ couches, the visiting players took part in some friendly competition before heading to the rink for Game 2.

“They smelled [my wife’s] cooking so they got up and chowed and the next thing I know there’s a huge game of mini-sticks going on,” said Eric Babler. “I was explaining American football to them a little bit and they were talking about soccer.”

Druzhba player Dima Kobylanskey shared his thoughts of the experience.

“We were driving all night here; we were pretty tired after the car ride and everything,” Kobylanskey said. “The [fi rst] game was good, but it was pretty hard to play. After the game [our players] ate something or slept in the car and a couple players went with [the Stars’] families.”

Although Druzhba was victorious in both games, the opportunity to play in a doubleheader with a team from across the globe made for quite a hockey-fi lled Sunday.

“It’s been fun, the fl ow of the game is really nice and they spread it out,” said Stars’ player Robby Flannery. “It’s just fun playing against someone from another country.”

But more importantly, it made for an experience that the players and parents involved will not soon forget.

“We’re really excited, [as] the parents, just to have the kids at our house,” said Stars’ parent and Suburban Skating Director Susan Bottrell.

Druzhba ’78, an elite Ukrainian hockey program, is led by coach Ivan Pravilov, who is also a head coach of the National Team of Ukraine. The Druzhba Hockey Club and School is actually based out of New England. Not only is this a laboratory for great hockey players, but an academy for academic learning, as well. This enables Ukrainian boys to come to the United States and train under Pravilov while getting an education. His former students include NHLers Dainius Zubrus and Mark Fayne of the New Jersey Devils, along with Andrey Zuizin of the Chicago Blackhawks.

“My son Robby skated with Ivan a few years ago,” said Stars’ assistant coach Rob Flannery. “Ivan came to town and did some power skating schools and I was just impressed by [his] technique, it was foreign to me.”

Because of this technique, the Druzhba ’78 players came out looking like a group of well-oiled professionals. Prior to taking the ice, the players from Ukraine sat in their locker room fully dressed for the game and looking focused and attentive to their coaches’ demands.

Since Flannery knew Coach Pravilov, he was able to set up Sunday’s games for his Stars and the Ukrainian club when he found out they would be in town.

“I’ve kind of kept in touch with these guys and when I knew Ivan was coming to town I got his information and we lined up the games,” Flannery said.

The Stars were effi cient, making crisp passes and fi nding teammates in open ice, but they were unable to match Druzhba’s near-fl awless skating ability and speed. The Stars dropped the fi rst game of the day 4-3, in what many parents described as a close contest. The hometown hospitality must have agreed with the Ukrainian boys – they won the second game 8-2.

“The kids are skilled, it’s a diff erent kind of hockey,” said Stars’ goaltender Matthew Babler. “They attack the puck more; they don’t mess around with the puck. It’s been a fun experience – crazy.”

The Druzhba ’78 squad will be in the United States for another week, sharpening their skills against other American clubs. But Sunday night they planned to bunk up with the Stars and share some dinner before hitting the road.

“Even though these boys have grown up almost on the other side of the world, hockey kind of brings it all together,” Flannery said. “These kids are very similar in skill level and how they play and they both love the game.”

’97 Michigan Ice Hawks Win Bauer Invitational

Suburban Stars share hockey, hamburgers with Ukrainian squadBY BRIAN KALISHER


Honeybaked midget minor traveled to the north side of Chicago the weekend of Nov. 4-6 to compete in the competitive Bauer International Invitational tourna-ment.

Sunday featured the playoff round to decide the tournament champion. Honey-baked played Chicago Young Americans in the quarterfi nal and squeaked by with a 1-0 victory. Game 2 of the day was the semi-fi nal against the Long Island Royals. This game featured a little bit of everything. Af-ter three scoreless regulation periods and two scoreless overtime periods, the contest was decided by a shootout, which result-ed in a 1-0 victory for Honeybaked . The championship game featured Honeybaked and a strong New Jersey Avalanche. Hon-eybaked came out skating and was fortu-nate to get two early goals to set the tone of the game. The game was back and forth the rest of the way before HB captured the championship with a 4-1 victory over a tough opponent.

Congratulations to the Honeybaked midget minor team for a job well done.

Note: The following article is a reader submission from a parent, coach, or player. If you would like your team featured on our website, please email Michael Caples at [email protected]

The Honeybaked PeeWee Minor ‘AAA’ Hockey Club completed the weekend with a 7-0 record after topping the No. 1-ranked (MyHockeyRankings) Chicago Mission 4-2 in the championship tilt at the Bauer Invi-tational. The team was rock solid all week-end at both ends of the ice giving up only six goals in seven games ,while scoring 33 goals en route to the championship. The team had wins over the Madison Capitals 9-1, Buff alo Regals 4-1, Markham Waxers 6-0, Boston Jr. Eagles 2-1 (SO), London Jr. Knights 5-0, and fourth-ranked Waterloo

Wolves in the semifi nal 3-1, before taking on the Mission. Honeybaked showed great speed, skill and teamwork throughout the weekend along with spectacular goaltend-ing. Congratulations to the 2011 Bauer In-vitational Champion Honeybaked Hockey Club.

Note: The following article is a reader submission from a parent, coach, or player. If you would like your team featured on our website, please email Michael Caples at [email protected]

Honeybaked midget minor wins Chicago’s Bauer Invite

Honeybaked PeeWees win Bauer Invitiational


HIGH SCHOOL PREVIEWSNORTH FARMINGTON/HARRISON

Coach Ken Anderson says that the Flyers greatest strength this season will be their tenacious approach when pursuing the puck. Key players include forwards Derek Reid, Jared VanValkenburg, Kyle Wood, Eric Stanis and Jake Ladouceur, defensemen Reede Burnette, Justin Brereton, Shane Moran, and Steven Coulter. Goaltender Keith Ladouceur will be the anchor in goal. Responsibility in their own end will be what decides the fate of their season, according to Anderson.

BIRMINGHAM UNIFIEDBirmingham’s head coach, John Weidenbach, says that

he is very confi dent in his team due to roster-wide speed and experience. Weidenbach will be counting on senior forward Mike Ryan to lead his team up front, and senior defenseman John Quay to direct the defensive unit. This unifi ed squad is working on improving their team defense as they prepare for conference play.

TRAVERSE CITY CENTRALTraverse City Central will be leaning on their veteran

core for the 2011-12 season. Coach Chris Givens says his team will led by goaltender Bill Vermetten, forward Cooper Macdonell, and defenseman Lucas Little. The Trojans’ biggest challenge will be getting their fi rst-year players ready for their speed and physicality of high school hockey.

WALLED LAKE NORTHERNCoach Claude Tunison didn’t want to list who his top

players were going to be this year, saying that he will have plenty who will contribute in all areas of the game. Tunison is pleased with the chemistry the Knights formed during the off -season by their core group of returnees. Northern’s coach says his team needs to keep “sharp focus and intensity for 24-plus games” if they’re going to succeed.

GOODRICHThe Martians head into the season already shorthanded.

Goodrich’s roster features only 12 players – coach John Hart lost 11 players from last year’s team, six to graduation, four who are pursuing other interests, and one who moved. A balanced roster – three players from each grade – will need to focus on conserving energy during a lengthy season. Hart says his team needs to “play a smarter game of hockey, use our minds to control the things we can, and conditioning for the things we can’t control.”

L’ANSE CREUSECoach Wayne Tollon doesn’t expect his team to score as

many goals as last season, which means they need to play more disciplined. “Last year we scored a lot of goals, gave up a lot of goals, and picked up a fair amount of penalties. We don’t look to score as many as we did last year, but we also don’t plan on giving up so many, as we are focusing on team and individual discipline.” L’Anse Creuse’s top players include Gary Hardy, Hunter Willette, Luke Thomas, Garret Filips, and Brett Blum.

ALLEN PARK CABRINICoach Bill Alvis says his team will be counting on

his seniors – Dominic Nichols, Christian Belan, and Luke Brithinee – to lead a young roster that includes 11 sophomores. Jacob Mackie and Mark Broshear will log plenty of minutes on the blue line. Senior goaltender Megan Syer and sophomore Brett Kates will push one another for the starting spot in goal.

GROSSE POINTE SOUTHCoach James Bufalino says his confi dence in his team

this year rests with the depth and experience he has throughout his four forward lines. His senior captains – Wes Cimmarrusti, Cam Gibson, and Nolan Monforton – along with senior goaltender C.J. Schebil will be expected to lead a Blue Devils squad with little experience on the blue line. A diffi cult regular-season schedule should prepare them for a strong playoff run.

TRENTONTrenton, along with Wyandotte-Roosevelt, will play in

the Michigan Interscholastic Hockey League for the fi rst time this fall. Goaltender Blake Wojtala, defenseman Cory Dunn, and forwards Mike Lesko and Cory Seychel will lead the Trojans. Coach Mike Turner says that defense and goaltending are the two strongest aspects of his squad this year, and that they will need to improve on fi nding the back of the net for a successful season.

BERKLEY-FERNDALECoach Jeff Fleming said that his squad, comprised of the

Berkley Bears and Ferndale Eagles, has solid chemistry and veteran leadership heading into the season. Fleming also said that his senior class would be the diff erence between a successful and disappointing season for the unifi ed squad. The team will work on bringing their younger players up to speed quickly.

ALLEN PARKAllen Park will be working with a young roster this

season. Coach Barry Goudy has six seniors, seven juniors, and seven sophomores on the roster. Ten of the 20 players on the roster are coming from travel hockey, with no high school experience, yet Goudy expects a positive transition because of solid team speed, and a big, strong defensive unit.

AIRPORTThe fi rst-year program at Airport High School isn’t

hurting for leaders, according to coach Tim Ames. “We have excellent upperclassmen leadership on this team. Every game and every practice our team comes ready to learn and play. It should be an exciting season.” Senior captains Steven Warren and CJ Hightower, along with sophomore captain Ryan Eyler lead the Jets, while senior TJ Petit is expected to have a strong season off ensively. Airport will continue to build their defensive structure throughout their season, which will be crucial to their success.MANISTEE

The Chippewas will be led by returning all-state honorees in senior forward Sam Lipps and junior goaltender Austin Wilson. Senior Jordan Truxton is expected to lead the defense, along with Sophmore Jake Kacynski and Junior Luke Johnson. Junior forward Keegan Nowaczyk and senior Jake Thompson will lead new players Kienan Kowalski, Yari Lynch, Chad Morang, Nick Weber, Mason Fisher and returning senior Alex Nelson up front. Coach Jon Raatz expects his veteran leadership and the team’s work ethic to lead them through the season.

WOODHAVENCoach Bryan Sullivan says that Woodhaven’s team

speed and depth at forward, along with stellar goaltending from all-state honoree Chris Kirk, should lead to another successful season for the Warriors. Learning how to play in their own zone, however, is something they need to work on, according to the coach. Forwards Joe Taurence, Tyler Thimmes and Frank Rossetti lead up front, while Matt Forgette and Mike Perry take care of the defense for the Warriors.

DEWITT-ST. JOHNSAssistant coach Craig Peterson says this is the deepest

team DSJ has ever had with eight returning forwards and four upper-class defensemen. Junior Troy Wilson (last season’s leading scorer), and seniors Troy Schott and Justyn McNett lead up front, while senior Adam Frechen

Blake Wojtala, brother of Bowling Green forward Camden, will lead Trenton from between the pipes this season. (Andrew Knapik/Michigan Hockey)


POWERED BYanchors the defense. Peterson says the season’s outcome will be decided by whether his talented roster plays together as one unit.

MUSKEGON REETHS-PUFFERThe Rockets, which is now a co-op along with North

Muskegon, Muskegon Catholic, and Montague, features a wealth of depth at their forward positions. Senior forwards Kameron Fowler, Connor Seymour, John Snider and Keith Robbins, along with junior forward Dean Griffi n, lead the forward group. Juniors Brenden Alderink and Casey Trautner lead on defense. Coach Eric Sikkenga said his aggressive forwards and defensemen need to make sure they play as a fi ve-man unit, and that they keep their composure during their fi rst season in Division 1.

AVONDALECoach Karl Daiek says that some incoming upperclassmen

could be the most important players for the Yellow Jackets this season. Senior Matt Andrus and junior Jordan Edwards are expected to make a quick impact. Meanwhile, junior Craig Zimmerman will be moving to the blue line after playing forward last season. Senior leadership from Connor Traskal, Kris Stein, Justin Przytakoski, Blake Blomberg, Steven Carter, Alex Poston and Joe Spurlin should motivate the rest of the Yellow Jackets.

NOTRE DAME PREPNotre Dame Prep returns nine players from last year’s

squad. Coach Bob Rosbury expects his senior captain, DJ Pagnucco, to lead the way both on defense and in the locker room. Pagnucco will be teaching 10 sophomores how to compete at the high school level. Two newcomers – senior Luke Moriguchi and sophomore Jacob Conroy – will man the crease for the Fighting Irish.

DEXTERDexter coach Brian Sipotz says opposing teams are going

to have plenty of trouble scoring on the Dreadnaughts this season, due to their depth on defense. Their depth on off ense, however, is what the Dexter coaching staff will be trying to improve upon throughout the season. Their key players include forwards Jake Waldrup and Ian Wiesenberg, and defensemen Andrew Gibson, Tucker Brust and Ben Finn.

ROCKFORD Rams coach Ed Van Portfl iet says his team has great

depth, as they return 11 players who held important roles with last year’s squad. Rockford will once again rely on junior goaltenders Todd Millar and Jake Rekucki to split time between the pipes. A 1-0 playoff loss to Traverse City West last year reminds the squad that they need to work on generating off ense this season.

MARYSVILLEPlenty of experience at forward and solid goaltending

from Michael Gaff ney and Anthony Benvenuti mean that

the Vikings can focus on team defense to start their season. Coach Paul Moretz said his other key players include Dom Creck, Kyle Hyde, Bryan Mertz, and BJ Kolcz.

GROSSE POINT NORTH Coach Scott Lock was vague when asked what his team

needs to work on. “We will need to improve on everything to compete each night in our league, but the few things of focus are to be on our structure and learn to have the passion to win each and every time we step on the ice.” However, Lock is confi dent that his returning core will help the younger members of the Flyers adjust to their systems and structures.

SOUTH LYON

The unifi ed squad – players from South Lyon East and South Lyon High – will have a new look, and a very deep roster. Coach Bill McCreary has 13 seniors, 11 of which are returning from last year. That means some high expectations. Our anticipations are high, our goal remains the State Championship; our leadership within the locker room will determine our success.” South Lyon’s speed and energy will make them a tough team to compete against.

WARREN DE LA SALLECoach Dan Barry points out that playing against the

best teams in the state will make his team better every season. This year, he’ll be counting on key players like Brian Feldpausch, Carson Hibner, Tom Peck, Alex Jaeckle,

Kevin Smith, Sean Barry, Rob Maxey, Zach Timmerman and Anthony Heppler. Newcomers Matt Taylor, Patrick Giles, and Jack Aliotta will add to a talented roster.

NOVILast season, the Wildcats (pictured above) captured the

Division 1 state championship at Compuware Ice Arena, just down the street from their school. This year, they should still be contenders. Coach Todd Krygier says his team’s greatest strength is the experience from last season, and the work ethic to continue to succeed. To reach last year’s success, Krygier wants his team to improve on their tempo and their puck movement.

PLYMOUTH“The biggest challenge for our team is understanding

that we have to come to play and compete at every practice and game,” says coach Gerry Vento. “The league we play in, the KLAA, is highly competitive and it does not allow a team to take a night off .” Vento will be looking for Zach Gambrell, Matt Goertz, Sean Smitacz, Cody Staub and Dean Gunther to lead the way this season.

Will Novi be able to defend their state title this winter? (Andrew Knapik/Michigan Hockey)


HOMETOWN HEROES

HIGH SCHOOL PREVIEW THIS YEAR’S LEADERSMIKE RYAN

BIRMINGHAM UNITED

ZACH COXCANTON CHIEFS

STEVEN WARRENAIRPORT

TREVOR BUSHNELLGOODRICH

BRIAN ROULIERFRANKLIN

TOM PECKDE LA SALLE

ZAC TOTTENKENOWA HILLS

MACKENZIE MACEACHERNBROTHER RICE

LUKE BRITHINEECABRINI

ZACK HALLORANEISENHOWER

STEPHEN COMPERCHIOJACKSON HIGH

BOBBY SCHUMACHERLAKELAND

ADAM EPSTEINGRAND LEDGE WAVERLY

ZAC MASSAFARMINGTON

MARK MCGEESALEM HIGH SCHOOL

CODY COWARTDEARBORN UNIFIED

JARED VINCEKSOUTH LYON UNIFIED

CARSON MILLERKALAMAZOO EAGLES

BLAKE WOJTALATRENTON

TOMMY KIVISTOBRIGHTON

TYLER KVEHNALLEN PARK


WESLEY CIMMARRUSTIGROSSE POINTE SOUTH

MIKE POBURMILFORD

COLE BROWNNORTHVILLE

CAMERON HEATHCRANBROOK

KYLE WOODFARMINGTON UNITED

BRETT WHITEEAST KENTWOOD

ROBERT LUZYNSKIWALLED LAKE NORTHERN

LUC HAMMERLEBERKLEY

TYLER GROATWYANDOTTE

JAKE LUDDYSHRINE

ERIK RUSTUNIVERSITY OF DETROIT JESUIT

RYAN BROWNWATERFORD KETTERING

DONALD SUNDGRAND RAPIDS CATHOLIC CENTRAL

BRYCE DEWINDTHUDSONVILLE

DEREK MACKIMAASWARTZ CREEK

JORDAN PREWITTMONROE

ZACH GAMBRELLPLYMOUTH

ANTHONY FACCAROCHESTER UNITED

NOLAN CHAPMANOXFORD

RYAN VANBOMMELBISHOP FOLEY

DAVID PAGNUCCONOTRE DAME PREP

KENT BURNETTNOVI

ANTHONY SCALADIVINE CHILD

ANDREW MURPHYWEST BLOOMFIELD

J.P. LUCCHESEGROSSE POINTE NORTH


HIGH SCHOOL PREVIEWS

CRANBROOK“I think that we will be competitive, both in our league

(MIHL) and in our division,” says coach Andy Weidenbach. “As usual, we will stress defense and use speed to our advantage on off ense. We won’t be in many shootouts, so we will need to play well in our defensive zone. As the season progresses, we will need our off ense to become more productive and the goalkeeper position to develop into one of our strengths.” Cranbrook’s key players include senior captains Cameron Heath, Ethan Weiss and Blake Manginell, along with senior goaltenders Justin Kirk and Aaron Alkema.

FLINT POWERS CATHOLIC“I think the greatest strength for us this season is that

we have a large number of players with experience (15), compared to only six last year when we fi nished 18-8-1 and lost in the quarterfi nals,” says coach Travis Perry. It’s his team’s last year in the Big Nine Conference before it combines with the Saginaw Valley League, and to go out with a bang, their coach says team defense will be the key.

PORTAGE CENTRALCoach Brian Bellware is taking over the Portage Central

squad, which means a season of transition with new systems and styles for the players to learn. However, with a stable of three capable goaltenders – senior Tyler Gordon, junior Isaac Nystrom, and freshman Colin Campbell – Bellware is confi dent that his team will be very competitive. He expects big seasons for seniors Brandon Vitale, Tyler Gordon and Justin Renda, along with juniors Matt Schuen and Andrew Carr.

BISHOP FOLEY“Our greatest strength of our team this season will be that

we have 10 returning players from last season,” says coach David Williamson. “The Foley Unifi ed Warriors are a little older and much more experienced at all positions. With the mix of new players and a strong work ethic, we have the talent at every position to compete. The expectations are much higher, as they should be.“ Williamson will be pushing his team to take advantage of turnovers this season.

LIVONIA FRANKLIN“Franklin could surprise a lot of teams this year,” says

coach Scott Wirgau. “Most years Franklin starts out hoping to do well - this year we expect it.” The Patriots coach will be counting on big seasons out of the returning Danny Donahue and Brian Roulier, along with newcomers CJ Cromie and Tyler Hewitt. Wirgau credits the hard work, determination, and cooperation he has gotten out of his team this season as their greatest strengths.

ROCHESTER UNITED“Our greatest strength this year will be that we

have balance throughout our lineup,” says coach Craig Staskowski. “Most nights we won’t have an issue using all of our lines and defense pairings.” The unifi ed squad will rely on key players like seniors Anthony Facca, Adam Boike and Matt Bowery, and juniors Tony Nassar, Aaron Sulesky and Joe Marino. Finding scoring is Staskowski’s main concern at this point in the season.

BIG RAPIDSCoach Tim Blashill says this year’s Big Rapids squad

may be his most experienced yet. “I think our greatest

strength will be our experience and overall upper class leadership. With 14 seniors and juniors, this is one of the most experienced teams we’ve had in my tenure. Our ‘D’ corps consists of two seniors and four juniors, so I’m very confi dent with that group.” Key returning players for the Cardinals include senior forwards Derrick Defever and Grayson Barbot, senior defenseman Patrick Langenberg, and incoming sophomore forward Mitchell Hawes.

UNIVERSITY OF DETROIT JESUITCoach Rick Bennetts says that his team’s youth is their

greatest strength, yet their biggest challenge at the same time. As the roster matures, Bennetts will be counting on seniors Erik Rust, Matt Griffi n, Pat Suchy, Sam Parise and John Lauro. Juniors Craig Pefl ey, Zak Harrison, Chris Morgan and Joe Zelinski, along with sophomore Griffi n McCarty, should also help the Cubs quest to make up for the scoring they lost from last year’s roster – 95 percent of it.

KALAMAZOO EAGLESCoach Rob Sorge says that his Eagles squad features

speed, agility, and good shooters. He’ll be hoping to get big seasons out of team captain Carson Miller, assistant captains Ben Hoard and Cody Lisowski, as well as Corey Siwula and Rodney Leversee. The one thing that Sorge thinks his team needs to work on is their power-play performances.

SALEM“While small in numbers, our senior group should

provide very strong leadership as they have all experienced success as individuals and as a team,” says coach Ryan Ossenmacher. Those seniors include forwards Mark McGee and Austin Sartorius and defensemen Michael Manser and Kyle Eggenberger. Ossenmacher’s main focus will be teaching his young roster how to compete at the high school level.

FRASERCoach Don Krussman says that Michigan Hockey better

keep an eye on his team this year, because they could surprise some teams. Twelve of Fraser’s 16 players are at least into their second year with the program, which means some great depth and team chemistry. Key players include captains Connor Gordley and JR Dellies, along with goalie John Goemaere.

ALPENAPete Doubek, coach of the Alpena Wildcats, expects his

squad to bring a physical presence to the ice every game this season. He will be counting on strong performances from Ian Stevens, Zach Nash, Jesse Boilore, Nick Skaluba and Jared Plume. Doubek wants his team to improve on shooting and one-time passing throughout the course of the year. Alpena is incorporating a Midget/JV program this year, which will allow them to bring players up when needed.

Coach Andy Weidenbach leads Cranbrook into another season with the MIHL. (Andrew Knapik/Michigan Hockey)


POWERED BYGAYLORD

New coach Mark Long wants his squad to play with a sense of urgency this season. He will be counting on key players like Spencer Bajko, Willie Gelow, Nick Shear, Cole Muzyl and Derek Aff ord to help with the coaching transition. Long’s three things he wants to see his team improve on are a commitment to team defense, staying out of the box, and staying disciplined.

MATTAWAN“We are fortunate to have good goaltending and six

defensemen that can play in all situations,” coach Mike May says. “Off ensively we will get production from two lines with the other two lines providing energy and making things diffi cult for the opposing team.” May expects big seasons from upperclassmen leaders like goaltender Donavan Story, defensemen Jack Hartman and Brody Stevens, and forwards Jake Gevaart, Josh Alley and Tyler Nabozny.

DETROIT COUNTRY DAY“Our biggest strength this year, I believe, will be our

ability to compete as a team,” says coach Frank Novock. “We have a nice group of leaders in all four classes that will challenge each other in a positive way.” Novock said his key players are “whatever 18 guys put the Detroit Country Day jersey on for that specifi c game”. Turnovers, fi nishing checks, and more pucks to the net will be things the Yellow Jackets will be looking to improve on.

NORTHVILLE“The greatest strength of our team this year is our

depth,” says coach Clint Robert. “Who our key players are…I feel all 22 kids are key to our success.” Robert said that his team needs to improve on their team defense to keep up in the very competitive Kensington Lakes Athletic Association conference.

WATERFORD KETTERINGWhile Waterford Kettering might have two new

goaltenders this season, coach Dan Whitener said he has no concerns, both because of their skill sets, and because of the defense in front of them. Their key players include defensemen Ryan Brown, Jay Magnan, Brad Stonehouse and Justin Haley, and forwards Kyle Soncrainte and Brandon Lopez. However, 90 percent of their off ense from last season graduated, so goal scoring is a concern.

GRAND LEDGE/WAVERLYThe Comet Warriors posted a 17-7-4 record last season,

and with a solid core of returning players, coach Brian Cliff ord expects those numbers to only go up in the win colum this season. Key players include seniors Drew Isaacson, Lorenzo Zea and Vince Gessler, juniors Adam Epstein and goaltender Collin Witt, and freshman forward Cam Collin. Cliff ord’s main concern is how the team gels to fi ll some vacancies from last year’s roster.

DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRALCoach Todd Johnson says that his team’s depth – the

Shamrocks return 14 players from last year’s roster – makes them a contender for a state title once again. Key players include defenseman Nolan Gluchowski and forwards Charlie Green, Michael Babcock, Peter Halash, and Steven Haydon. The 14-time state champs are always a team to watch in the MIHL.

EISENHOWERCoach Bob Hall says that the Eagles’ strength this season

lies in their goaltending and off ensive play. Eisenhower returns 10 seniors and one junior, including two senior goaltenders in Erik Rodak and Tyler Wakefi eld. Hall’s concern is on the defensive side of the squad; the Eagles bring in four new defensemen. Seniors Jake Schmidt, Zach Halloran, Aaron Schnieder, Mike Willemsen and Marc Havrilla lead the way up front.

GRAND RAPIDS CATHOLIC CENTRAL“The 2011-12 Catholic Central hockey team has a core

of returning veteran players that will provide leadership

coming off a DIII State Championship,” says coach Mike Slobodnik. “We have great team speed and above average puck skills.” Grand Rapids CC will be counting on All-State forwards Donald Sund and Owen Kane, and All-State defenseman Hunter Jenerou this season.

BROTHER RICECoach Lou Schmidt Jr. says team chemistry is what he’s

focused on right now. “We have 13 new players on this year’s team, so I would expect that it will take some time for everything to come together. I am impressed by the work ethic of the team so far.” Schmidt will be counting on seniors Mackenzie MacEachern, Chris Wilberding and Eric Dibble, and juniors Thomas Ebbing, Andrew Roye and Jon Reschke to lead the Warriors this season.

PINCKNEYAfter 13 years of assisting at Pinckney, Ted Kroll now

takes over behind the bench. “We came off our best season to date winning the regional championship against Portage Central and losing to Wyandotte in the state quarterfi nals,” says Kroll, excited to be in his new position. “We are returning 12 players, including eight seniors. Captains Kirk Smith, Ken Grundy, and Henry Gary will help lead the Pirates this year. We bring back the strongest defensive core I have seen in my stint with Pinckney.“

WEST OTTAWACoach Jeremy Von Eitzen says that with the new co-op

formed with Black River and Holland Christian, his team is deeper than ever. Seven seniors bring experience and a balanced attack. Eitzen says that senior defenseman Reid Fresura, a four-year letter winner, will be their rock on defense, while senior Alex Kramer and junior Danny Matrosic lead on off ense. Goaltender Michael Ewing, a senior, begins his third season as starting goaltender.

EASTSIDE (EAST LANSING)Eastside coach Scott Crilly is excited about the depth

of his roster this season. The co-op squad will be led by captain Chris Hagan, a multi-sport star, Ryan Tyrer, Mike Flegal and Matt Harris. Defensive zone coverage is a main focus for improvement. Crilly also mentioned that people should keep an eye on Sam Rathbun, an off ensive lineman that’s now a speedy power forward.

CHELSEAThe Bulldogs return 15 players from last year’s roster.

Coach Don Wright will be counting on senior forwards Brad Hepler, Joe Hewitt, Kyle Whipple, senior defenseman Anthony Catalina, and senior goaltender Chris Boyd to lead his squad. Hepler has been the Bulldogs leading scorer for the last two seasons, and Wright sees no reason why he won’t be able to accomplish the feat for a third straight year.

Mackenzie MacEachern has generated interest from college and junior teams during his time at Brother Rice. (Andrew Knapik/Michigan Hockey)


HIGH SCHOOL PREVIEWSOXFORD

In his ninth season, coach Dave Hague is very excited for this year’s crop of talent at Oxford. “We have a lot of returning veterans up front and on the blue line, many of which are in their third and fourth seasons, Hague said. “We’re excited about our experience and will have a veteran presence on the ice at all times. We’re expecting big years out of Nick Hocker, Brennen Orr, Nolan Chapman and Stephan Fritz, to name a few.”

L’ANSE CREUSE NORTHCoach Jon Nader says that his team will treat every

game like it’s their last. “Our goal is to play every game like its Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final,” says Nader. “Last year we were sluggish in some games, this is something were going to fi x.” Having 10 seniors should help Nader’s team live up to that motto. They will be counting on big seasons from Ian Fish, Evan Corbett, Rob Ochmanski, Kyle Forner and Gage Minkley.

JACKSONCoach Eric Morgan expects his Jackson United squad

to be able to build on a 10-12-2 record, with nine players coming back from last season. Key players include Logan Burns, Tom Esser, Josh Matthias, Zach Robinson, Steve Comperchio, Ryan Shaw, and Austin Maynard. The leaders will need to help fi ve freshmen adjust to the high school game.

LIVONIA CHURCHILLCoach Pete Mazzoni will have a wealth of experience to

work with this season, as the Chargers return 10 seniors, and nine players with at least three years of experience at the varsity level. “ We need to share the puck more and learn to compete every day at a high level, and we need to push ourselves to expect more from [ourselves],” says Mazzoni. “If we want to be better than last year, we have to be willing to do more than we did last year.”

HOUGHTONThe Gremlins return a remarkable 15 players from 2010-

11. Key players include forwards Trevor Mattson, Heath Johnson, Raymond Brice and Connor Hannon, defensemen Griffi n Hietala, Hunter Rajala and Drake Anderson, and Tony Peltier in goal. “Team defense will be an emphasis all season long and will help us get better as a team,” says coach Corey Markham. “We are looking forward to an exciting year of high school hockey.”

PORT HURON NORTHERN“We have some good, experienced players coming back

this year,” says assistant coach Ryan Porte. “We have strong senior and junior classes that have been playing MIHL hockey since they were freshmen. We look for their strong leadership to build on last year’s regional championship and trip to the Div. II quarterfi nal.” The staff puts an emphasis on playing “Northern Hockey” – strong defensive zone play, body contact to create space, and making the

other team defend two-thirds of the ice at all times.

HUDSONVILLECoach Jason Caster says that with his young team,

adjusting to the speed and pace of high school will be Hudsonville’s biggest challenge this season. While they don’t have any senior defensemen, he is still confi dent that his team will be able to shut down the opposition. Key players include Andrew Terpstra, Kollen Bayko, Bryce Dewindt, Adam Jorgensen, and Dan Hoekstra.

EAST GRAND RAPIDSNew coach Brian McFalone says it’s going to be hard to

score on his team this season, considering they have six returning senior defensemen. The senior-fi lled defensive unit should help East Grand Rapids stay competitive in the OK Conference, where they face some stiff competition.

MONROEThe Monroe locker room will look pretty similar to last

year’s – they return 19 players, and have 11 seniors on the roster. “This has a chance to be our best team in program history,” says coach Isaac Murphy. “With all of our depth and experience, we believe we have a good chance to repeat in the SHL, and also contend for our fi rst league title in our other league, the Southeastern Conference. If we continue to work hard and get better during the course of the season, we’re hoping to advance to the second week of the playoff s for the fi rst time.”

ROYAL OAK SHRINECoach AJ Plaskey says his team’s greatest strength this

season will be their added depth and leadership from his forwards. Key players include forwards Jake Luddy, Joe Nagle and Spencer Ray, defenseman Mike Gilmore, and two-way player Donald York. Plaskey wants to see his team’s speed and defensive zone coverage improve this year.

CANTONThe Chiefs are coming off of their best year in school

history after a record of 16-7-2. This year, they will look to keep possession of the Park Trophy (between rivals Salem and Plymouth), and their KLAA division. Coach Jeremy Majszak has 11 returning players and promising additions. Spencer Craig is returning for his third year between the pipes – last season he had 15 wins and eight shutouts. Senior captains Zach Cox and Brandon Schlieger lead on the blue line, and Brandon Grillo will also help add an off ensive punch.

DIVINE CHILDCoach Brian Dallas expects his Divine Child squad

to be balanced from top to bottom this year, with 10 seniors featured on the roster. Key players include senior forwards Austin Pearson, Austen Zub, Spencer Laird, Mike Leporowski and Sean Allen and defensemen Jack Zaidel, Anthony Scala and Jimmy Roznowski. Steve DePaulis

returns between the pipes.

GRAND RAPIDS KENOWA HILLSCoach Wayne Skislak says that the Grand Rapids Kenowa

Hills roster features plenty of experience, leadership, and team chemistry this season. Zac Totten, a four-year starter, will be a presence for the squad in goal. Everett Thompson returns as the leading scorer, while Dan Hankins, Matt Neal, and Brendan Cockrill will play important roles for Kenowa Hills this season. A youthful defensive corps will need to grow together as the season progresses.

DEARBORN

This season, Dearborn will work to come together as a unit and have more depth defensively. The two top off ensive lines will be a threat every night, with the potential of the third being dangerous as well. Coach Mike Sears, in his second season behind the bench, is eager to get his team to the playoff s, and make a statement while they are there.

WYANDOTTE-ROOSEVELT After capturing the Division II state championship last

year over Brother Rice, Wyandotte-Roosevelt now joins their conference. The Bears, along with Trenton, have joined the MIHL for this upcoming season, which will mean a new set of challenges for both squads. With the experience from last year, the Bears should be a hard team to stop this season.

MARQUETTEJoe Papin, head coach of the Redmen, said that despite

having to replace 11 players from last year’s roster, his team is even deeper this fall. Key players include Cody Norquist, Collin Schwemin, Nick Weston, Wyatt Smith, Kyle Carriere and Austin Riipi, and newcomers Mike House, Forest Folker and Tyler Jackson.

EAST KENTWOODThe Falcons return 10 forwards from last year, a season in

which they reached the Final Four in the Division 1 playoff s. All-state forward Brett White (who has committed to Eastern Michigan to play golf) returns after posting 42 goals and 51 assists last year. Senior forwards Erik Stapleton and Chris Laux add to the Falcons’ fi repower. Coach Todd Bell has confi dence in his fi rst-year goaltender, junior Zach Casavant.

TROYCoach Tim Zimmerman said that being a year older will

benefi t the majority of his roster, citing an improvement in maturity and confi dence already. Zimmerman will be counting on big performances from key players Brett St. Cyr, Nick Kondoleon and Alex Franchi. The bench boss said his team needs to improve on their play without the puck to be successful this season.


E X C L U S I V E S

Check out our preview for the Michigan Interscholastic Hockey League

Read an article about East Lansing’s captain Chris Hagan

And see our exclusive captains ‘In the Spotlight’ photo slideshow


TOURNAMENT CALENDAR POWERED BY MARRIOTT

COMPLETE AND UP-TO-DATE TOURNAMENT LISTINGS AT

MIHOCKEYNOW.COM

DECEMBER 2011 Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MIDecember 2-4, 2011Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Hockey Time Productions Girls Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MIDecember 2-4, 20118U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MIDecember 2-4, 2011Squirt B, Squirt A and Bantam BContact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

West Shore Community Ice Arena TournamentScottville, MIDecember 2-4, 2011Pee Wee B231-843-9712westshoreice.com

Get Into the Cold TournamentMt. Pleasant, MIDecember 2-4, 2011Pee Wee House B989-772-9623 [email protected]

Grand Traverse Hockey Association TournamentTraverse City, MIDecember 2-4, 2011Pee Wee [email protected]

Big Rapids Area Junior Hockey AssociationBig Rapids, MIDecember 2-4, 2011Bantam B231-591-2881bigrapidshockey.org or ferris.edu/icearena

Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MIDecember 9-12Mite B, Midget B, Midget Minor and High School JVContact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-

898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Get Into the Cold TournamentMt. Pleasant, MIDecember 9-11, 2011Bantam House B989-772-9623 [email protected]

Big Rapids Area Junior Hockey AssociationBig Rapids, MIDecember 9-11, 2011Pee Wee B231-591-2881bigrapidshockey.org or ferris.edu/icearena

3 on 3 Holiday ShootoutTroy, MIDecember 26, 2011Mini-Mite – Bantam B, A, AA, AAA, Girls U12-U16, High School and Adult men/women586-817-3458/586-817-3459tyha.net

3 on 3 Holiday BlastNovi, MIDecember 31, 2011Open & House Divisions – Mite – Bantam, High School & Adult248-347-1010noviicearena.com

3 on 3 Winter BlastRochester & Macomb, MIDecember 31, 2011Mite – Bantam, High School & Adult586-992-8600suburbanice.com

JANUARY 2012Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MIJanuary 6-8, 2012Mite Cross-Ice Jamboree, Pee Wee B and Bantam BContact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Grand Traverse Hockey Association TournamentTraverse City, MIJanuary 6-8, 2012Squirt [email protected]

Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MIJanuary 13-15, 2012Mite B, Squirt B and Midget B

Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

7th Annual January Freeze TournamentBay City, MIJanuary 13-15, 2012Mite – Midget B/BB, JV Prep989-671-1000 x105baycounty-mi.gov/civicarena

Big Rapids Area Junior Hockey AssociationBig Rapids, MIJanuary 13-15, 2012Mite ADM – Studio Rink231-591-2881bigrapidshockey.org or ferris.edu/icearena

Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MIJanuary 13-16, 2012Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Hockey Time Productions Girls Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MIJanuary 13-16, 20128U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Hockey Time Productions K-Zoo Cup Tournament Series Kalamazoo, MIJanuary 13-16, 2012Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Midwest JV-Prep Hockey ShowcaseDearborn, MIJanuary 13-16, 2012High School – JV/Prep216-325-0567 or 216-970-5523 [email protected]

Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MIJanuary 20-22, MISquirt AA, Pee Wee B and Bantam AAContact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

House “B” Winter ClassicMuskegon, MIJanuary 20-22, 2012House – Mite - Midget231-747-7266goldcoasttournaments.com

Grand Traverse Hockey Association TournamentTraverse City, MIJanuary 20-22, 2012Girls U16 [email protected]

Big Rapids Area Junior Hockey AssociationBig Rapids, MIJanuary 20-22, 2012JV/Midget A231-591-2881bigrapidshockey.org or ferris.edu/icearena

Tip Up Town USA- 3on3 Winter BlastHoughton Lake, MIJanuary 21, 2012, 1:00-5:00pmYouth989-366-5644houghtonlakechamber.net

Motor City Shinny TournamentBloomfi eld Hills, MI (Pine Lake Country Club)January 21 & 22, 2012Men’s Open A, B & C; Men’s Over 40 A, B & C and Ladies Open248-404-5558 [email protected]

Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MIJanuary 27-29Squirt B, Pee Wee AA and Bantam BContact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Get Into the Cold TournamentMt. Pleasant, MIJanuary 27-29, 2012Midget House B989-772-9623 [email protected]

Grand Traverse Hockey Association TournamentTraverse City, MIJanuary 27-29, 2012JV & Midget [email protected]

Lake Fenton Winter Classic (Pure Pond Hockey)Fenton, MIJanuary 27-29, 201218+810-620-PUCK (7825) [email protected]

2012 Michigan Senior Olympics Hockey TournamentJanuary 28 – February 1, 2012Rochester, MISeniors800-400-8161

Big Rapids Area Junior Hockey AssociationBig Rapids, MIJanuary 28-29, 2012Mini-Mite & IP ADM231-591-2881bigrapidshockey.org or ferris.edu/icearena

Out-of-State TournamentsDECEMBER 2011Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OHDecember 2-4, 2011Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Hockey Time Productions Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PADecember 2-4, 2011Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Hockey Time Productions Girls Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PADecember 2-4, 20118U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Canlan Classic TournamentsFJP - Sunshine ShowdownDecember 2-4, 2011Coral Springs, FloridaYouth [email protected]

Gene Harrington InvitationalNiagara Falls, NYDecember 2-4, 2011Contact: Bob Harrington 781-710-6560 [email protected]

AMERICAN CUPLake Placid, NYDecember 8-11, 2011Atom, Peewee, BantamAA, A, B, Select - Minor/Major/Mixed divisionsCanadian Hockey Enterprises 1-800-461-2161 chehockey.com

AMERICAN CUPLake Placid, NYDecember 15-18, 2011Midget AA, A, B, - Minor/Major/Mixed divisionsCanadian Hockey Enterprises 1-800-461-2161 chehockey.com

AMERICAN CUP GIRLS TOURNAMENTLake Placid, NYDecember 15-18, 2011Peewee, Bantam,Midget AA, A, BCanadian Hockey Enterprises 1-800-461-2161chehockey.com

AMERICAN CUP HIGH SCHOOL TOURNAMENTLake Placid, NYDecember 15-18, 2011High School Boy’s and High School Girl’sCanadian Hockey Enterprises 1-800-461-2161chehockey.com

Schwan Cup High School/YouthBlaine, MNDecember 26- January 1, 2012Youth Squirt-Bantam and High SchoolMN/USA Hockey sanctioned

Canlan Classic TournamentsNew Jersey Christmas ClassicDecember 27-29, 2011Vineland, NJYouth [email protected]

Liberty Cup Tournament Series: Philadelphia Holiday Classic Hatfi eld, PA

MICHIGAN


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Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center400 Renaissance DriveDetroit, MI 48243313-568-8000detroitmarriott.com

Detroit Marriott Troy200 W Big Beaver RoadTroy, MI 48084248-680-9797 troymarriott.com

The Dearborn Inn, A Marriott Hotel20301 Oakwood BlvdDearborn, MI 48124313-271-2700dearborninnmarriott.com

Courtyard Detroit Airport Romulus30653 Flynn DriveRomulus, MI 48174734-721-3200detroitairportcourtyard.com

Courtyard Detroit Auburn Hills1296 Opdyke RoadAuburn Hills, MI 48326248-373-4100auburnhillscourtyard.com

Courtyard Detroit Dearborn5200 Mercury DriveDearborn, MI 48126313-271-1400dearborncourtyard.com

Courtyard Detroit Downtown333 East Jefferson AveDetroit, MI 48226313-222-7700detroitdowntowncourtyard.com

Courtyard Detroit Farmington Hills31525 West 12 Mile RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48334248-553-0000marriott.com/dtwfm

Courtyard Detroit Livonia17200 N Laurel Park DriveLivonia, MI 48152734-462-2000livoniacourtyard.com

Courtyard Detroit Novi42700 West 11 Mile RoadNovi, MI 48375248-380-1234novicourtyard.com

Courtyard Detroit Southfield27027 Northwestern HighwaySouthfield, MI 48033248-358-1222southfieldcourtyard.com

Courtyard Detroit Troy1525 East Maple RoadTroy, MI 48083248-528-2800detroittroycourtyard.com

Residence Inn Detroit Warren30120 Civic Center BlvdWarren, MI 48093586-558-8050residenceinnwarren.com

SpringHill Suites Detroit Southfield28555 Northwestern HighwaySouthfield, MI 48034248-352-6100marriott.com/dtwsd

TownePlace Suites Detroit Sterling Heights14800 Lakeside CircleSterling Heights, MI 48313marriott.com/dtwtu

December 28-30Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV, Mite Cross-Ice Jamboree Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040myhockeytournaments.com

JANUARY 2012American CupLake Placid, NYJanuary 5-8, 2012Novice, Atom, Peewee, BantamAA, A, B, House Select - Minor/Major/Mixed divisionsCanadian Hockey Enterprises 1-800-461-2161 chehockey.com

Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OHJanuary 13-16, 2012Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Hockey Time Productions Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PAJanuary 13-16, 2012Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Hockey Time Productions Girls Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PAJanuary 13-16, 20128U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

Congressional Cup Tournament Series: Congressional Midwinter ClassicWashington, DCJanuary 13-16, 2012Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV, Mite Cross-Ice Jamboree Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Chicago Cup Tournament Series: Chicago Midwinter ClassicChicago, ILJanuary 14-16, 2012Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV, Mite Cross-Ice Jamboree Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Steel City Tournament Series: Pittsburgh Midwinter ClassicPittsburgh, PA

January 14-16, 2012Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV, Mite Cross-Ice Jamboree Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Music City Tournament Series: Music City Cup Nashville, TNJanuary 14-16, 2012Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV, Mite Cross-Ice Jamboree Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Empire State Tournament Series: Empire State Cup Rochester, NYJanuary 14-16, 2012Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV, Mite Cross-Ice Jamboree Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Buckeye State Tournament Series: Cincinnati Midwinter ClassicCincinnati, OHJanuary 14-16, 2012Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV, Mite Cross-Ice Jamboree Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855-898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Niagara Falls Blizzard ChallengeNiagara Falls, NYJanuary 14-16, 2012Mites, Squirts, Peewees, Bantams and Midgets, A, B, AE, & AA Divisions available in most tournaments.niagaratournaments.com716-791-4068 or [email protected]

American CupLake Placid, NYJanuary 26-29, 2012Atom, Peewee, BantamAA, A, - Minor/Major/Mixed divisionsCanadian Hockey Enterprises 1-800-461-2161 chehockey.com

Gene Harrington InvitationalNiagara Falls, NYJanuary 27-29, 2012Contact: Bob Harrington 781-710-6560 [email protected] nahockey.comFEBRUARY 2012American CupLake Placid, NY

February 9-12, 2012Atom, Peewee, BantamAA, A, B, House Select - Minor/Major/Mixed divisionsCanadian Hockey Enterprises 1-800-461-2161chehockey.com

Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OHFebruary 17-20, 2012Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV216-325-0567itshockeytime.com

FEBRUARY 2012“Escape the Blues” A and AA Pre-Playoff TournamentChesswood Arenas. Toronto, OntarioFeb.3-5th, 2012 Minor Pee Wee to Minor Midget age divisions, 3 game minimum – 5 game maximumContact: Rick Heinz 905-854-3435 or email: [email protected] torontocityblues.com

2012 SCHEDULENorth American Holiday HockeyAdult & Youth1-800-322-NAHHnahhtours.comEmail: [email protected]

Las Vegas, NevadaLas Vegas Ice CenterMarch 21 – 26, 2012

Fort Lauderdale, FloridaSaveology.com Iceplex (Panthers’ Practice Facility)March 28 – April 2, 2012

Montreal, QuebecComplexe Sportif Bell (Canadiens’ Practice Facility)April 13 – 15, 2012

Toronto, OntarioCanlan Ice SportsApril 20 – 22, 2012

Hartford, ConnecticutInternational Skating Center of ConnecticutApril 27 – 29, 2012

Atlantic City, New JerseyFlyers’ Skate Zone (Flyers’ Facility)May 4 – 6, 2012


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Each year, the North American Hockey League sends dozens upon dozens of players and alumni to the college hockey ranks.

After all, being a developmental league, that’s what the NAHL prides itself on.

Players go to national powers like Minnesota, Colorado College, North Dakota and Michigan, and also to smaller schools like Bentley, Mercyhurst, the U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Military Academy (Army).

Last season’s league MVP, Michigan Warriors’ goalie Robert Tadazak, is now a freshman at Army and seeing decent minutes for the Black Knights.

NAHL commissioner Mark Frankenfeld beams when asked about his league promoting its players to college hockey.

“We are proud of our club’s commitments to development and placement of our players,” Frankenfeld said. “The NAHL is unique in many ways, but especially the fact the majority of the boys that commit to college come to the league without a college opportunity. Basically, the commitments are homegrown, more so than any other league in the country, and we are proud of that fact.”

So far this season, a healthy chunk of players on 19 league teams have already announced their choices for college hockey. The Amarillo Bulls and Traverse City North Stars lead the way with fi ve commitments, while the Coulee Region Chill has four moving up.

With the footprint of the NAHL going stretching from New York to Texas to Michigan to California to Alaska and even British Columbia, many players don’t have to leave home to play junior hockey.

One such player is Fairbanks Ice Dogs forward Alec Hajdukovich, a Fairbanks native who will play college hockey next season in, you guessed it, Fairbanks for the CCHA’s Alaska Nanooks.

“It has always been my dream to wear the UAF jersey and I don’t think it will hit me until I am skating in my fi rst game sporting the blue and gold,” Hajdukovich said. “I think I can bring an off ensive presence to the UAF lineup. They have a lot of skilled forwards that can score right now and I am going to have to work hard to crack the lineup. I believe UAF is a good fi t for me and this opportunity was just too good to pass up.”

The NAHL also goes above and beyond when it comes to giving players the exposure they need to be seen by NCAA scouts.

“The NAHL spends a tremendous amount of resources to provide opportunity for our boys via our annual Showcase

and Top Prospects Tournament,” Frankenfeld explained. “This fact, in conjunction with our coaches’ hard work for the player, is highlighted by all college commitments to date.”

BANDITS’ VET WANTS TO FINISH NAHL CAREER STRONG

Joe Kalisz is playing his third season in the NAHL with the St. Louis Bandits and has his eyes on two things – winning the Robertson Cup and securing a Division I scholarship.

“All I can do is work hard and play the way I am able to and hopefully, my hard work will pay off ,” said Kalisz, who has been at or near the top of the NAHL scoring race all season. “The coaches here want players who know how to win.”

A Flint-area native, Kalisz said the move to St. Louis has been an eye-opener.

“Living in St. Louis is a complete 180 from back home,” Kalisz said. “Being a single child back home and moving into a house of six people has been the biggest diff erence. The city life here is awesome. You’re 30 minutes away from everything.”

ARIZONA NATIVES ADJUSTING TO ALASKAN LIFEThere are only a handful of Arizona natives playing in

the NAHL and two of them – Cody Bisbing and Bryan McFarlane – play for the Alaska Avalanche.

Both are embracing life in Alaska, even though it’s nothing like the desert.

“Since I’ve been in Alaska, I’ve really learned to appreciate outdoor activities such as hunting and fi shing,” said Bisbing, who is in his second year with the Avalanche. “Alaska is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen.”

”When I got here in mid-August, the fi rst thing I noticed was that it was really green,” McFarlane added. “Alaska is beautiful no matter what time of the year it is. The only similarity is that there are mountains here. I totally agree with the people that say the beauty of Alaska is second to none. It’s the complete opposite of back home. There isn’t that much sun here, it’s colder, and I am living in a small town (Wasilla). The only thing that is similar to Arizona and Alaska is the mountains, but there is snow on them here and that’s really new to me.”

NAHL continues to feed NCAA programs

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

BY MATT MACKINDER

THE LATEST HEADLINES, CONTACT INFO, FULL SCHDULE & MORENAHL.COM

Left: Coulee Region Chill captain Eric Drapluk, a recent Lake Superior State commitment.

Below: St. Louis Bandits forward and Davison native Joe Kalisz.

(courtesy NAHL)


D&D BICYCLES AND HOCKEY

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PLYMOUTH WHALERS

Andy Bathgate wanted to fi nish out his Ontario Hockey League career on a contender with a chance to win an OHL championship.

Playing the last three years in Belleville, Bathgate requested a trade over the summer and was dealt to the Plymouth Whalers shortly thereafter for a pair of early-round draft picks.

Plymouth coach and general manager Mike Vellucci said at the time of the trade that Bathgate would add depth and veteran leadership to the Whalers. He led the Bulls in scoring last season, but wasn’t signed by the Pittsburgh Penguins, the team that drafted him in 2009.

Going to the Whalers as an NHL free agent is a situation that Bathgate feels gives him a fresh start all the way around.

“It’s safe to say that Belleville and Plymouth are worlds apart,” said Bathgate, a 20-year-old from Brampton, Ont. “I loved my time spent in Belleville and met tons of very nice people, but I am really enjoying being here in Plymouth. Everyone from the coaching staff , to the guys, to my billets has been nothing short of amazing.

”Obviously, being an overager in the league, there are things that you are expected to do. Aside from scoring

points, I’m looking to be a leader on a very talented team and contribute any way I can. If we can have a good year this year team-wise, I’m pretty sure my goals as an individual will be much more easily accomplished.”

As the grandson of the NHL Hall-of-Famer with the same name, Bathgate gets noticed for his name more times than not and often gets asked about his grandfather. It’s certainly a topic he never gets tired of talking about.

In the summer months, the younger Bathgate works at a driving range and golf course founded by his father and grandfather. His grandfather, now 79, still works at the range seven days a week.

“When we’re together, we don’t do much working,” smiled Bathgate, who wears No. 9 to honor his grandfather. “It’s more talking about everything hockey. He is by far the best person for stories and pointers on the game. I don’t think it will ever get old talking about him. I didn’t realize until I was about 15 years old just how great of a hockey player my grandfather was. Hearing him tell stories of his playing days and seeing that Stanley Cup ring on his fi nger (from the 1964 Toronto Maple Leafs) everyday is something else and I look forward to every time I get to see him.”

Hockey has been in his blood since birth, but there have been other sports Bathgate tried along the way and continues to play, like golf and roller hockey, but being on the ice is where the Whalers’ forward knows he belongs.

“Hockey has been an enormous part of my life, but I wouldn’t say it’s all I’ve ever known,” Bathgate said. “I enjoy other sports and academics are very important to both me and my parents.

“All in all, hockey has been and continues to be the biggest part of my life and really, the most enjoyable.”

DEMPSEY TO REPRESENT ONTARIO

Rookie forward Mitchell Dempsey, Plymouth’s top pick in last May’s OHL draft, was selected to Ontario’s Under-17 Team that will compete at the 2012 World Hockey Challenge being held in Windsor from Dec. 27-Jan. 4.

Former Whalers’ defenseman and current Kitchener assistant coach Troy Smith is Ontario’s head coach.

FUTURE OHLer WILLIAMS ENJOYS ‘FUN PRESSURE’

Saginaw native Devin Williams grew up watching the Saginaw Spirit and hoping one day he could play at the Dow Event Center.

Turns out Williams will get that chance next season, but as a member of the Erie Otters, after Erie drafted Williams in the fi fth round (95th overall) in May and he signed with the club on Oct. 22.

Williams, playing this season in Waterford for the Metro Jets of the North American 3 Hockey League, is one of the youngest players in the league after only turning 16 eight days after signing with Erie.

According to Metro head coach Jason Cirone, also a scout for Erie, seeing his goaltender sign to play at a higher level “is what we’re here to do.”

“I’m happy for the kid,” said Cirone. “To play in the OHL is a lifelong dream, but he knows that this isn’t the end of the road. (Jets goalie coach) Randy (Wilson) has done a great job with Devin and really hasn’t had to adjust anything – just a few tweaks here and there. Devin has reached this point in his career all on his own and that’s a credit to him. He’s also one of the most mature kids on our team and I think that shows he was raised the right way and put on the right path.”

“I’ve always felt the OHL atmosphere was what I wanted and I think it will be a good fi t,” Williams said. “I’m adjusting to the junior level here and I think playing against older guys is a challenge, but it’s a challenge I want. There is pressure, but to me, it’s fun pressure.”

This past summer saw Williams represent the gold medal-winning United States at the Under-17 Five Nations Tournament in Ann Arbor, emerge as a candidate for the U.S. National Team Development Program and stand out as the top goalie at the USA Hockey Select-16 Festival in Rochester, N.Y., where he posted a .945 save percentage and a 1.33 goals-against average.

Williams made his debut with Erie on Nov. 18 in Kitchener, making 10 saves on 12 shots in a little more than 17 minutes of action.

Whalers’ Bathgate more than just a famous name

Plymouth forward Andy Bathgate may have a famous grandfather, but he’s building a name for himself in the OHL. (Aaron Bell/OHL Images)

Despite being only 16, Devin Williams is impressing at the OHL level. (Andy Grossman/Detailed Images)

BY MATT MACKINDER


SAGINAW SPIRIT

John McFarland is getting a fresh start.

You know the story - an underachieving player is traded and before you know it he fi nds his game and becomes the player that everyone thought he

should be. Early in his career, McFarland was touted as possessing

once-in-a-generation talent, and he was expected to be on par with the likes of Sidney Crosby, Steven Stamkos, and John Tavares. Yet only good performances in juniors – not extraordinary like what was expected – led to the hockey world labeling him an underachiever.

But since coming to Saginaw, McFarland seems to be moving much closer to realizing the lofty expectations placed upon him at an early age. He gives full credit to the Saginaw Spirit organization for his turnaround.

“I tribute that to coming here to Saginaw and being coached by Todd Watson,” said the Richmond Hill, Ontario native. “If I didn’t come I’m not sure any of this would have happened and Todd’s been a huge part of the reason why I have had success.”

Another reason is Spirit defensemen Ryan O’Connor. “When I got here I was able to move in with Ryan, who I

have known and been best friends for the past eight years,” McFarland said. “We played on the same team for fi ve years

and knowing someone here has helped a lot and the rest of the guys have treated me great since I arrived last year.”

The 6-foot-1, 205-pound center potted 19 goals and 28 points in 38 games after Saginaw acquired him from the Sudbury Wolves. Just about a quarter of the way into the 2011-12 season, McFarland has already surpassed his Spirit point total and is less then a handful of goals away from last years totals as well.

The Florida Panthers took a chance and drafted him early in the second round (33rd overall) of the 2010 NHL entry draft, and then proceeded to sign him to an entry level contract this past summer after he attended their rookie camp. Signing his fi rst pro contract and his experience at the camp added to his fast start this season.

“With both of those behind me I am not feeling any more pressure and I can just go on the ice and play hockey,” said McFarland, who is a ‘92 birth year. “At the same time you continue to put the pressure on yourself to be the dominant player and the goal scorer I want to be, but it is nice to have both the draft and the contract behind me. It’s all part of the process in stepping forward and making it to the NHL.”

McFarland has put together an impressive hockey resume since he started to lace the skates, so much so that he made a bold eff ort to join the Ontario Hockey League at the early age of 15 by petitioning the league to grant him “exceptional player” status.

Prior to joining the OHL, McFarland scored 96 goals

and 165 points in just 49 games with the Toronto Junior Canadiens, a Junior A team.

Sudbury drafted him fi rst overall at the 2008 OHL Priority Draft. He scored six goals and fi ve assist in his fi rst 12 games in the league and was named OHL Player of the Month for October.

In three seasons with the Wolves, McFarland totaled 47 goals, 65 assists and 112 points in 134 games. McFarland was named MVP of the 2008 OHL Showcase Tournament. He was selected by his coaches to captain Team Canada at the Ivan Hlinka U-18 tournament, scoring four goals and one assist in six games.

McFarland possesses high-end skill with speed to burn, and had the highlight of his OHL career on Nov. 11 in a game against the Ottawa 67’s, scoring a career-high four goals and one assist for a fi ve-point night. McFarland credited his line after the performance.

“My line has been incredible this year,” McFarland said. “The right side of the line has been a bit unsettled due to injuries and suspensions but the players I have played with there have been getting me the puck on a regular basis. My center, Michael Fine, has been unbelievable and he assisted on all four goals in the game against Ottawa. I think we compliment each other well.”

Saginaw gives John McFarland new lease on hockeyBY CARL CHIMENTI

Time to celebrate: John McFarland has seized his opportunity in Saginaw to establish himself as an elite NHL prospect once again. (Aaron Bell/OHL Images)


NOTABLE GLI MVPS1984 – Bob Essensa, Michigan State

1990, 1991 – Steve Shields, University of Michigan

1994, 1995, 1996 – Brendan Morrison, University of Michigan

1997 – Mike Weaver, Michigan State

1999 – Shawn Horcoff , Michigan State

2000 – Ryan Miller, Michigan State

2004 – Jim Slater, Michigan State

2005 – Joey Crabb, Colorado College

2006 – Bryan Lerg, Michigan State

2007 – Billy Sauer, University of Michigan

2008 – Louie Caporusso, University of Michigan

2009 – Brett Perlini, Michigan State

2010 – Luke Glendening, University of Michigan

NOTABLE GLI MVPSThe fi rst team to win the GLI wasn’t even an American college; the University of Toronto won the inaugural event in 1965. The Wolverines won it the next year. Michigan has won the GLI 14 times.Michigan State has won the GLI 12 times.Michigan Tech has won the GLI nine times. Mark Jooris of RPI had seven points against Michigan in 1985 to set the tournament record for points. Billy Sauer’s 50 saves for the Wolverines against Providence in 2007 is a tournament record for stops in a single game. Michigan Tech and the University of Michigan share the record for most goals in the tournament with 18. Heading into the 2010 GLI, 1,290,914 fans had attended the tournament.GREAT LAKES INVITATIONAL

FLASHBACK


23996 Freeway Park Drive Farmington Hills

Maake up claasss and Oppen Skate offered during Hooliday break

WINTER 1

WINTER 2

(Ages 4-10)SEPT. 10 - DEC. 17 | JAN. 7 – MAR. 31

SATURDAY MORNINGS

Still accepting

registrations!

For Grand Rapids Griffi ns center Jamie Johnson, coming to the rink every day last year just didn’t have the same appeal that it once did.

“I didn’t have the year I wanted to,” Johnson said. “I thought I worked hard and played well, but I just had a hard time fi nding the score sheet.”

Johnson was signed to a two-year contract by the De-troit Red Wings on July 1, 2010, who were hoping that they were adding a veteran cornerstone piece for the Griffi ns off ense. He fi nished the 2010-11 season with 38 points (12-26—38) in 78 games. It was hardly an unproductive season – he was tied for fi fth in team scoring – but it was a drop-off from the 71 points (27-44—71) in 80 games he recorded with the Rochester Americans in 2009-10.

“It was a frustrating year, and I didn’t want it to happen again,” he said.

This year, as you watch Johnson fl y through drills and joke around during practice, you would assume he’s an en-tirely diff erent player.

“This season is going a lot better,” Johnson said. “I’m defi nitely having more fun.”

“Last year, he had a weight on his shoulders – you could see it every game,” said Griffi ns head coach Curt Fraser. “It was like he was carrying a piano around, and it wasn’t fun.”

Six weeks into the season, Johnson is showing the skill and promise that impressed the Red Wings brass enough to reward him with a two-year deal. He has tallied seven goals and three assists in 14 games for the Griffi ns, sitting fi rst on the team in goals and third in points.

“Jamie came in this year looking quick and in great shape,” Fraser said. “From the fi rst day of camp, you could see a huge diff erence in his game. He was ready to play, ready to contribute, and he hasn’t stopped since the begin-ning of the year.”

Johnson scored in the Griffi ns’ season-opening loss to the Rockford IceHogs on Oct. 8, but found himself point-

less in the next eight games. While memories of last season kept creeping in, Johnson made sure to keep focused and remind himself that he’s beaten scoreless streaks before.

“I usually start slow, and I have no idea why,” said John-son. “Even in my best years, I always seem to start slow. Sometimes it’s hard not to think about, but you can’t get frustrated. You have to stay positive and work through it. All you need is a bounce one night, and that seems to make things go.”

When some of his best seasons include a 100-point (24-76—100) season in his fi nal year of junior with the OHL’s Oshawa Generals, and an 80-point (22-58—80) cam-paign as a second-year pro with the Augusta Lynx of the ECHL, you begin to get a sense for his ability to fi nd the scoresheet when he’s feeling confi dent.

“Any time you’re scoring goals and producing, you seem

more confi dent,” said the London, Ontario, native. “The good things feel a lot better, and you just brush aside the little mistakes. That’s how you have to do it all the time, but it’s much easier when you’re producing.”

Johnson was able to break out of his early season slump in a big way, putting together an AHL career-best fi ve-game goal streak, totaling nine points (6-3-9) in fi ve games to kick off the month of November.

“I just have to keep working hard and going to the net,” Johnson said. “It sounds pretty simple, but if you go to those areas that it’s a little harder to get to sometimes, you seem to get rewarded.”

Johnson was also quick to note that playing with the Griffi ns’ top scoring duo of Chris Conner (19 points in 14 games) and Gustav Nyquist (14 points in 14 games) tends to make playing the game a little easier.

“It’s been nice,” said the 29-year-old forward. “I just try to go to the net, get Gus and Chris the puck, and it just seems to be working right now.”

Simplicity in getting shots to the net and following up for a rebound has been key for Johnson, as well as the rest of the Griffi ns. The team emphasized shooting the puck after a skid in early November, and followed up with an average of 45.7 shots over their next three games.

“Some teams play better defensively, and others not as much,” explained Johnson. “As long as we’re trying to get shots through, it will work for us. If we can get 40 shots every night, I like our chances of winning.”

The team found immediate success in that strategy, set-ting a franchise record for largest margin of victory on the road with an 8-0 win over Hamilton on Nov. 11. Johnson led the charge with two goals and an assist, but was more impressed with how the team came together as a whole.

“That just got some guys going, gave us more confi -dence,” said Johnson. “It’s nice when everyone’s chipping in and it’s not just one or two lines. I think it brought the team together and we realized that we can score goals.”

GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS

BY KYLE KUJAWA

Rejuvenated Johnson leading the charge

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WWEEDDNNEESSDDAAYY DECC. 2288THH TTHHUURSSDDAAAYY DDEEC.. 2299TTHH

FRRIDDAAYY DDEC.. 3300TTHH 6:00pm – 7:00pm

WEDNESDAYAA andY THURSDAYAAinstruction class days with

45 min lesson and 15 min practice

FUN FRIDAY AA is a day to play gamesoption to bring a friend to skate as well!

AAGGEESS 33 TTOO AADDUULLT

HOLIDAAY

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JUNIORS PREVIEWRED WINGS INSIDER

The Howe family has frequently broken new ground in the hockey world and they did so again Nov. 14 when Mark Howe joined his father Gordie in the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.

The Howes are the fourth father/son combo to be in-ducted and the fi rst to have played together in the NHL. The other father/son pairings already in the hall are Lester and Lynn Patrick, Bobby and Brett Hull and Oliver and Earl Seibert.

“I spent my whole life dreaming of being a hockey play-er,” said Howe, who had 197 goals and 742 points in 929 NHL games to go with his WHA totals of 208 goals and 504 points in 426 games.

“You dream of winning Stanley Cups. Something I never dreamed about is getting into the hall of fame.”

He might not have dreamed of it, but his father certainly did. With his son’s totals of 1,246 points in 1,355 games spread over 22 pro seasons, Gordie didn’t hide his senti-ment that he felt his son should’ve been inducted long ago.

“I think it obviously means more to him,” said Mark Howe, who is director of pro scouting for the Red Wings. “Anyone that has children understands.

“Anything my children achieve means far more to me than anything I’ve done in my life. He doesn’t have to say that, I know exactly how he feels.”

The uniqueness of the journey, in which Gordie Howe got to play with both his sons in the WHA and NHL, made the induction ceremony a leap into a deep pool of emotions for the entire clan.

At least 40 family and friends attended the ceremony, but the one person Mark Howe dearly wished could attend was his mother Colleen, who passed away in March 2009 of Pick’s Disease.

“It means so much more to me that dad’s here to share it,” said Mark Howe, who put on a Wings’ jersey with the No. 9 on the back to conclude his speech. “I have a family and my good friends around me. That’s what it means to me.

“Whether it validates or doesn’t (my career), I did what I did on the ice. I’m proud of my career. I’m proud of my accomplishments I had as an individual and the teams I played with.”

When asked why he thinks he earned entry into the hall, Mark Howe’s modesty betrays him. However, Gordie Howe eagerly off ers up several reasons with a bluntness similar to one of his famous elbows to the chops.

“The love of the game,” Gordie Howe said. “His feelings towards the game was it’s his life.

“He had the speed. As a passer, I include all of them Ted Lindsay, Sid Abel, no one passed the puck better.”

Like so many other greats of his era, the laboratory where Mark perfected his skills was the rink at his subur-ban Detroit home. He spent endless hours on the ice until it would get dark.

When he got old enough, Mark Howe found a solution to extend his playing hours.

“He wanted to play after dark until 10 or later every day,” Gordie Howe said.

“He got (two-by-four) posts and strung up lights, Christ-mas lights, and people would stop in their cars in the neighborhood wondering what was going on. Why did we have our Christmas lights up?”

From an early age, Mark Howe was well aware of what the Howe surname meant. He knew it required some sac-rifi ces from him, but in return he enjoyed experiences be-yond the dreams of most young boys.

The young Howe got to skate with the Wings in training camp, was a stick boy for visiting teams and got the use of the Olympia ice whenever he wanted.

“Most of it was growing up the son of Gordie Howe,” said Mark Howe about what his mother taught him as a boy.

“Everywhere you went, people talked about being a U.S.-born kid and being from Detroit. You went to all the Canadian cities (to play), you got spit on and treated like trash because you were an American. You got that from six, seven-years on up.

“You had to learn how to control your emotions as a young kid.

LIKE FATHER LIKE SONMark Howe enters Hockey Hall

BY DAVE WADDELL(Dan Swint, PDQ Photo)

“As you get older, apart from being an American, you’re Gordie Howe’s son. That puts more limelight on you.

“The hardest part, I didn’t think it was that hard to me, was carrying that name on your back. I knew growing up as a child if I did something really wrong, his name was going to be in the paper.

“The upside, if you go anywhere in Canada or North America especially here in Detroit, with that name, I can walk in anywhere. All the liberties I had for being Gordie Howe’s son were fantastic.”

For a young hockey player, sharing a home with one of the sport’s living legends could’ve been a suff ocating ex-perience. Mark Howe learned it was best to embrace his father not compete with him.

He again credits his mother for teaching him early about being his own person.

“If I tried to compare my career to his it’s a lose-lose situation,” said Mark Howe, who scored his fi rst profession-al goal 27 years to the day (Oct. 16, 1973) after his father scored his fi rst NHL goal.

“What my mom taught me, whether it’s through school, work, hockey or how you conduct life away from the rink, set your own values and standards. ‘What do you want to do in your life and what are your expectations?’

“I didn’t care what anyone said because I had my values of what I decided for myself.”

Father and son were separate people, but with an un-breakable bond.

When Mark decided to jump to the WHA at 18 years old after winning a Memorial Cup with the Toronto Marlies in the spring of 1973, that was the opportunity Gordie was waiting for to fulfi ll his long-held dream of playing with Mark and his elder son Marty.

“If I didn’t go to the WHA, I had to wait two more years as a junior before being eligible for the NHL,” said Mark Howe, who was the MVP of the 1973 Memorial Cup tourna-ment. “I was able to play on the same team as my dad and brother.

“I also had the chance to make more money as an 18-year-old than my dad did in any year during his whole career.”

Mark Howe, who won an Olympic silver medal with the U.S. hockey team at the 1972 Winter Games as a 16-year-old, became an immediate star in the WHA. The Howe fam-ily was once again one of hockey’s biggest stories, but not everyone in the hockey world was impressed.

In those early days, the WHA’s tough guys learned the legend of Gordie Howe was no myth when it came to pro-tecting his sons.

“The fi rst three games we had fi ghts and that was it,” Gordie Howe said.

“I went over to a coach who was sending someone out deliberately to maim him (Mark). High sticks were up around the throat and ears and he got cut up.

“I (skated) alongside side the bench and got three (op-posing players with his stick) with one swoop. I said, ‘You put patches on my son. When those patches are off and you do it again, I’ll put more than a patch on you.’

“A lot of parents couldn’t watch their kids, with all the clips and cuts. I didn’t mind.

“I just waited for the next line change and you could get even. If I could skate, I could get even.


I’ve always had a soft spot for high school hockey. It goes back to my sophomore year at Riverside High in Windsor. I made the team and entered into a realm of hockey I hadn’t anticipated – playing in front of

crowds. Up until then, it had been youth hockey in front of parents mostly, with tournaments having some peer viewing as teams hustle and bustle through the rink. But playing for your school was completely diff erent. It marked the fi rst time kids – your friends and classmates – actually chose to watch you play.

Now, that view seems egocentric all these years later, since the student body wasn’t there to see me play, per say; rather, kids would congregate at old Riverside Arena to cheer on their school. Or, more accurately, cheer against rivals Assumption or Brennan. The other unique aspect of that singular high school season - the following year players could not play both AAA hockey and for their high school - was that I got to play against some of my travel teammates who likewise played for their school. That was a competitive fi rst.

The combination of a rink packed with students and looking across the ice at familiar faces turned foe left an indelible mark on what hockey could be. And then there was the whole legacy aspect of high school hockey. Our coach, “Duke” Snyder, was a legend then and continued on for 30 more years from when I played. I had never been a part of a program before – one headed up year after year by the same man where you could look back at the upperclassmen that had played for him and moved on. In short, there was history, tradition and school pride. I found it all so exhilarating.

But I always wonder if that one season tending goal for the Riverside Rebels made such an impression that I gravitate back to the high school game. I enjoyed running the pre-season program for Walled Lake Central. One of my favorite events when I was down south was our high school training camp program. When I was here 15 years ago, I helped out with Divine Child’s program their fi rst season and into year two before I had to step away since I didn’t have enough time to commit fully. Still, the mix at the high school level energizes me – upperclassmen with younger hopefuls, kids still pushing themselves alongside guys who just love being a part of something, and classmates becoming teammates.

Beyond that, though, I wonder if that lone season was enough to push me to seek the next comparable level at Cornell, where playing in front of classmates in packed arenas is what college hockey is all about. Atmosphere. Experience. The experience extends beyond the team and the locker room. You’re part of a collective experience maybe for the fi rst time on any level. Maybe that is it. High school hockey is another way to enjoy the game, regardless of an individual’s motivation to be there. Heck, it’s just fun.

Still is for me. To all the captains who came out to the Novi rink, we thank you and wish you and your teams all the best this season.

I look forward to seeing you around the rink this winter as we launch our high school coverage for both the magazine and MiHockeyNow.com.

BY DARREN ELIOT

WHAT’S NOT TO LOVE ABOUT HIGH SCHOOL HOCKEY?

@Darren_Eliot

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(Andrew Knapik/Michigan Hockey)


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Michigan Hockey November, 28, 2011