North to Alaska

The 2007-2008 Terriers fly to Anchorage today to begin the season in the Nye Frontier Classic, taking on Robert Morris University (CHA) Friday night and host UA-Anchorage (WCHA) the following night. BU last skated in this tournament in Oct. 1999, beating Air Force and UAA. Blog contributor Scarlet, who is headed to the tournament, points out that during the 1999 event, the Red Sox were taking on the Indians in post-season play, just as they are now.

One team member not making the trip is sophomore defenseman Eric Gryba who is recovering from mono and getting himself back to game shape.

Saturday’s game with the Seawolves will be Webcast and available both live and on-demand from GCI. Cost should be around $5 and since you’ll need to receive an e-mailed gamepass, signing up well before gametime is recommended.

There are no new rules changes this season, but the NCAA has issued new standards of enforcement of existing rules, which are illustrated in the 2007 Rules and Officiating Video which all teams watch. Among the infractions shown is a high-sticking penalty taken by ex-Terrier Tom Morrow (now playing in Germany), knocking down a BC skater.

In other Terrier news, former All-American defenseman Freddy Meyer has another NHL decal on his suitcase, having been claimed on waivers from the Islanders by the Phoenix Coyotes. Last season, four former Terriers were in the Islanders' lineup, but now with Meyer’s departure, it’s down to just goalie Rick DiPietro. Tom Poti signed with the Capitals and Shawn Bates is on the injured list.

Former Terrier and NHL forward Joe Sacco began his head coaching career with the AHL Lake Erie Monsters with a hard fought 3-2 loss to Grand Rapids. Ken Roche, one of two senior forwards on last year’s BU squad, plays for Sacco, whose teammates on the BU 1987-88 squad included former Bruins head coach, now Lightening assistant Mike Sullivan and Terrier associate head coach David Quinn. Sacco was interviewed following the game.