Yikes! Toast at Yost!
It can be safely said that while game one in Ann Arbor was an encouraging loss, with BU dominating much of the first two periods, the finale was a discouraging loss with a porous defense exposed. The game recap from The Daily Free Press recounts the woes. On a lighter note, CSTV Rinkrat Elliot Olshansky offered more highlights of his road trip from Boston with Dog Pound members.
Several hundred miles south of Ann Arbor, 2008 recruit Chris Connolly put up three goals and two assists for Omaha over the weekend and moved into a tie for the USHL scoring lead with 14 points. The Lancers 7-1 start earned the team a featured spot in this week’s NHL.com’s Junior Report
Growing up, both Chris Drury and Tom Glavine excelled on the ice and on diamond. This news feature tracks the paths they took and choices they made to become pro standouts.
2008 goalie recruit Kieran Millan, like Karson Gillespie in Ann Arbor, saw a bunch of pucks enter his cage Saturday night in Spruce Grove’s loss to Okotoks in AJHL play, but he still earned #2 star of the game.
Camrose Kodiak defenseman Andrew MacWilliam, a Terrier recruiting target, is one several AJHL standouts who passed on WHL offers in order to maintain their college eligibility.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Saturday, October 27, 2007
BU-UM rematch on tap
Just two hours to go before game two of this series between the Terriers and Wolverines. Thus far, we have no information on the status of forward Pete McArthur, injured late in the 3rd period last night. Tonight's game, which begins at 8:30 p.m. ET, is being broadcast by CN8 in New England. You also can watch online at CN8 Live or listen on WWZN and use the online gametracker via the links on the BU athletics Web site.
Last night, the Wolverine's second goal was a key turning point, a combination of a little puck luck and a smart,quick reaction. Netminder Brett Bennett looked well positioned to defend a shot by a UM forward, who fanned on the shot. Everyone froze for a split second, except Palushaj who took a few strides and fired. BU narrowed the two-goal lead twice, but could get no closer. Despite the four goals against, Bennett was strong in goal with several acrobatic saves.
There weren't too many comments from Jack Parker on Friday's 4-2 loss in the USCHO recap or the official BU game recap, buty ou can see the two Terrier goals scored by Jason Lawrence and Dan McGoff. However, CSTV's Elliott Olshansky blog post captured some of the coach's thoughts about the strong effort put forth by the Terriers and the continued difficulty in finding the back of the net.
You can read a few more of Olshansky's in-game posts here and the details of his journey from Boston to Ann Arbor in a convoy of Dog Pounders here.
Last night, the Wolverine's second goal was a key turning point, a combination of a little puck luck and a smart,quick reaction. Netminder Brett Bennett looked well positioned to defend a shot by a UM forward, who fanned on the shot. Everyone froze for a split second, except Palushaj who took a few strides and fired. BU narrowed the two-goal lead twice, but could get no closer. Despite the four goals against, Bennett was strong in goal with several acrobatic saves.
There weren't too many comments from Jack Parker on Friday's 4-2 loss in the USCHO recap or the official BU game recap, buty ou can see the two Terrier goals scored by Jason Lawrence and Dan McGoff. However, CSTV's Elliott Olshansky blog post captured some of the coach's thoughts about the strong effort put forth by the Terriers and the continued difficulty in finding the back of the net.
You can read a few more of Olshansky's in-game posts here and the details of his journey from Boston to Ann Arbor in a convoy of Dog Pounders here.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Dogs & Rat Hit the Road to A2
Member of the BU Dog Pound picked up a traveling companion for their trip to Ann Arbor. CSTV.com’s RinkRat Elliot Olshansky reports that “early Friday morning, I'll be on my way out to Ann Arbor with 17 of Boston University's most hardcore fans, and the CSTV.com camera will be rolling.” We keep an eye on Elliot’s blog and the CSTV.com site to see how eventful the journey is. Meanwhile, the Go Terriers Web site offers a pre-game look at BU-Michigan.
While John Curry headed West, another ex-Terrier, Matt Radoslovich, returned to the East and his home state of New Jersey. Rado joins the ECHL Trenton Titans after two seasons with the Quad City Mallards and a training camp stop with the AHL Norfolk Admirals. In Trenton, he’ll see a very familiar face—if not a former teammate—as Brad Zancanaro’s twin brother Tony, a former Providence College standout, is on the Titan’s roster. So is ex-BCer Joe Rooney.
Déjà vu?
Jack Parker, after last Friday's Terriers’ 4-1 loss to UNH:
“We had four or five great opportunities, and we try to make a better pass, a better-looking goal. It’s almost as if they think they’ll get more points.”
Devils Coach Brent Sutter , after tonight’s 2-0 loss to the Rangers, NJ’s third time shut out this year: “"They all want to make pretty plays. That's not how it happens."
Worcester defenseman, Dan Spang, featured in an Oct.19 Hockey News article, was named to Minor Leagues News top 50 minor league players.
In today's post on the NHL’s players to watch list, we neglected to point out that forward Aaron O’Callahan, son of ex-Terrier All-American, Olympic gold medal winner and NHL defenseman Jack O’Callahan, received a B rating. Aaron is a 6-2, 180 lb. senior at Taft.
While John Curry headed West, another ex-Terrier, Matt Radoslovich, returned to the East and his home state of New Jersey. Rado joins the ECHL Trenton Titans after two seasons with the Quad City Mallards and a training camp stop with the AHL Norfolk Admirals. In Trenton, he’ll see a very familiar face—if not a former teammate—as Brad Zancanaro’s twin brother Tony, a former Providence College standout, is on the Titan’s roster. So is ex-BCer Joe Rooney.
Déjà vu?
Jack Parker, after last Friday's Terriers’ 4-1 loss to UNH:
“We had four or five great opportunities, and we try to make a better pass, a better-looking goal. It’s almost as if they think they’ll get more points.”
Devils Coach Brent Sutter , after tonight’s 2-0 loss to the Rangers, NJ’s third time shut out this year: “"They all want to make pretty plays. That's not how it happens."
Worcester defenseman, Dan Spang, featured in an Oct.19 Hockey News article, was named to Minor Leagues News top 50 minor league players.
In today's post on the NHL’s players to watch list, we neglected to point out that forward Aaron O’Callahan, son of ex-Terrier All-American, Olympic gold medal winner and NHL defenseman Jack O’Callahan, received a B rating. Aaron is a 6-2, 180 lb. senior at Taft.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
NHL weighs in on draft prospects
NHL Central Scouting yesterday announced its players to watch list, the first of its reports which is followed by midyear and final rankings of draft eligible players. This report does not include either NCAA players (e.g. Colin Wilson) or Major Junior Players.
Among the Terrier recruits, Chicago Steel defenseman Max Nicastro (photo) received an “A” rating, while NTDP U18 players David Warsofsky and Vinny Saponari and Stouffville Spirit forward Corey Trivino earned “B” ratings. Andrew MacWilliam, a Camrose defenseman, who is on BU’s radar, and Salmon Arm center Derek Lee, who visited BU and has the Terriers on his short list, received a “B” and “C” respectively. Another name of interest on the report is Shattuck’s St. Mary defenseman David Carle, brother of Denver All-American and current San Jose Shark Matt Carle. The younger Carle, who is an uncommitted 2008 recruit, was rated an “A” prospect.
We recently reported that Trivino and Ethan Werek will represent Canada East in the World Junior A Challenge in a few weeks. The U.S. squad, almost entirely USHL players, has been announced and Nicastro has earned a place in the blueline corps. Jack Connolly, brother of BU 2008 recruit Chris Connelly, also was named to the U.S. team.
Subscription Web site thescoutingnews.com recently posted a feature on 2008 recruit David Warsofsky that includes comments from several scouting sources. With permission, it is reposted below.
Among the Terrier recruits, Chicago Steel defenseman Max Nicastro (photo) received an “A” rating, while NTDP U18 players David Warsofsky and Vinny Saponari and Stouffville Spirit forward Corey Trivino earned “B” ratings. Andrew MacWilliam, a Camrose defenseman, who is on BU’s radar, and Salmon Arm center Derek Lee, who visited BU and has the Terriers on his short list, received a “B” and “C” respectively. Another name of interest on the report is Shattuck’s St. Mary defenseman David Carle, brother of Denver All-American and current San Jose Shark Matt Carle. The younger Carle, who is an uncommitted 2008 recruit, was rated an “A” prospect.
We recently reported that Trivino and Ethan Werek will represent Canada East in the World Junior A Challenge in a few weeks. The U.S. squad, almost entirely USHL players, has been announced and Nicastro has earned a place in the blueline corps. Jack Connolly, brother of BU 2008 recruit Chris Connelly, also was named to the U.S. team.
Subscription Web site thescoutingnews.com recently posted a feature on 2008 recruit David Warsofsky that includes comments from several scouting sources. With permission, it is reposted below.
David Warsofsky
Has BU found themselves one of the most promising 1990 born players in the game of hockey? Hockey experts say yes. Former Cushing defenseman Dave Warsofsky a perfect fit for the new day and age of hockey. The skill defenseman has all the goods to be a top NCAA college hockey defenseman. Warsofsky, who is playing this season for the USA NTDP program, is described by scouts as a heads-up defenseman with great hockey sense and on the ice patience.What sort of impact can he make in the NCAA game? What are the early expert evaluations on Warsofsky?
“He will eventually be a top pairing defenseman in the NCAA,” says one scouting source.
What the scouts like about Warsofsky’s game?
“He is an extraordinary player with exceptional skill,” says one scouting source. “He is especially good on the power play. He is a smooth skater with a strong stride. He has tremendous vision
and really moves the puck up the ice up well.”
The scouting sources have been very impressed with the youngster’s hockey sense and overall game.
Warsofsky has clearly impressed many in the hockey scouting
community.
“He has tremendous patience with the puck and hockey sense,” says the source. “Last year when I watched him against Lawrence he scored a power play goal as the puck made its way through a screen of players .. rang a shot off the crossbar with a strong one- timer .. had an assist on the 5th goal .. against NMH, had his best game statistically .. had a goal in the 2nd period when he came into the play late and let a low shot go .. on the power play, works the puck around and gets open for a rocket of a one-timer .. assisted on the second goal with a nice tic-tac-toe with Broc Little and Sean
Coughlin .. also assisted on the 5th, 6th and 7th goal. A tremendously talented defender … a definite offensive defenseman with an accurate shot from the point as seen by his hat trick against Neponset Valley … the game against Neponset Valley saw his team with a 5-on-3 advantage with 7 minutes left in the first and the first 8 minutes in the second, and David played a huge portion of that power play … showed great patience and poise to work the puck around and wait for the best shot … his first goal during the 5-on-3 was when he walked in from the blue line and blasted a shot beating the goalie top corner with no screen … his second goal was a one-timer that he kept low and went right in ... the last goal he scored is when he sneaked down from the point, received a nice pass, and re-directed the puck into the net.”
Strength may be an issue for the youngster at the next level.
“He needs to add more strength for his defensive game and play in the corners,” says the scout. “He is in a very good place to work in that weakness this year though."
Wednesday Linkorama
What happens in Vegas….
John Curry’s odyssey in the Pens organization has taken him to the Las Vegas Wranglers of the ECHL. Originally scheduled to begin the year with AHL Wilkes Barre-Scranton, the All-American goalie sustained a lower-body injury and missed the exhibition season. The Pens brought in ex-UNH goalie Ty Conklin and sent Curry west where his arrival meant that his former Terrier teammate, Stephan Siwiec was cut from the roster.
Skating into the Wranglers’ crease, Curry, now wearing #35 has excelled. He won his first two starts, giving up just one goal in each game and earning ECHL goalie of the week honors. In the first game, Curry kept former HE opponents Brady Leisenring and Brett Hemingway off the score sheet, but gave a goal to ex-RPI Engineer Oren Eizenman. Final score, 2-1 in OT. Curry must have felt right at home. Curry now is 3-0, although he did give up a pair of goals in the third game. He’ll likely return to the AHL sometime soon, but while in the Wrangler’s net will find himself facing ex-teammates Matt Radoslovich (Fresno) and Bryan Miller (Anchorage).
Ryan Whitney’s sweet pass (video) produced the only goal in Tuesday’s Penguins-Rangers game. Whitney’s bullet pass banked of Evgeny’s Malkin’s stick and trickled across the goal line.
Junior defenseman and second team All-American Matt Gilroy, who scored BU’s only goal against UNH, guested in a CSTV.com chat earlier in the week. The chat transcript provides some insights into Gilroy’s decision to resist the offers of NHL scouts last spring and return for another year at Agganis Arena.
New England Hockey Journal profiles NTDP U18 coach John Hynes, who also will behind the bench for the U.S Junior National Team in this year’s World Junior Championships. Terrier defenseman Brian Strait, captain of Hynes’ 2005-06 U18 squad that won the World U18 Championship, describes his singular approach to preparation. Hynes, a member of BU’s 1995 NCAA Championship team, began his career as a graduate assistant on the Terrier staff and later was assistant to David Quinn when the current BU associate head coach led the NTDP program.
BU’s Alumni office announced a “Men’s Hockey Watch Party - BU vs. Michigan” this Friday in New York City. "Standings Bar is hosting a special party for this exciting game -- sound will be on and free pizza will be served!
When: Friday, October 26, 2007, 8:00 p.m.
Where: Standings Bar, 43 East 7th Street
Cost: Complimentary
John Curry’s odyssey in the Pens organization has taken him to the Las Vegas Wranglers of the ECHL. Originally scheduled to begin the year with AHL Wilkes Barre-Scranton, the All-American goalie sustained a lower-body injury and missed the exhibition season. The Pens brought in ex-UNH goalie Ty Conklin and sent Curry west where his arrival meant that his former Terrier teammate, Stephan Siwiec was cut from the roster.
Skating into the Wranglers’ crease, Curry, now wearing #35 has excelled. He won his first two starts, giving up just one goal in each game and earning ECHL goalie of the week honors. In the first game, Curry kept former HE opponents Brady Leisenring and Brett Hemingway off the score sheet, but gave a goal to ex-RPI Engineer Oren Eizenman. Final score, 2-1 in OT. Curry must have felt right at home. Curry now is 3-0, although he did give up a pair of goals in the third game. He’ll likely return to the AHL sometime soon, but while in the Wrangler’s net will find himself facing ex-teammates Matt Radoslovich (Fresno) and Bryan Miller (Anchorage).
Ryan Whitney’s sweet pass (video) produced the only goal in Tuesday’s Penguins-Rangers game. Whitney’s bullet pass banked of Evgeny’s Malkin’s stick and trickled across the goal line.
Junior defenseman and second team All-American Matt Gilroy, who scored BU’s only goal against UNH, guested in a CSTV.com chat earlier in the week. The chat transcript provides some insights into Gilroy’s decision to resist the offers of NHL scouts last spring and return for another year at Agganis Arena.
New England Hockey Journal profiles NTDP U18 coach John Hynes, who also will behind the bench for the U.S Junior National Team in this year’s World Junior Championships. Terrier defenseman Brian Strait, captain of Hynes’ 2005-06 U18 squad that won the World U18 Championship, describes his singular approach to preparation. Hynes, a member of BU’s 1995 NCAA Championship team, began his career as a graduate assistant on the Terrier staff and later was assistant to David Quinn when the current BU associate head coach led the NTDP program.
BU’s Alumni office announced a “Men’s Hockey Watch Party - BU vs. Michigan” this Friday in New York City. "Standings Bar is hosting a special party for this exciting game -- sound will be on and free pizza will be served!
When: Friday, October 26, 2007, 8:00 p.m.
Where: Standings Bar, 43 East 7th Street
Cost: Complimentary
Friday's game against Michigan is on CSTV and if you don't get that channel, try this site to watch online. Saturday's 8:30 p.m. start is on Comcast's CN8 in New England which can be accessed at CN8Live.
Earlier this week, we reported on Matt Gilroy’s younger brother, Kevin, who plays for the EJHL South Shore Kings. So, in the interest of fairness… Kevin Shattenkirk’s older brother, Keith, a senior forward playing for Princeton, scored the game-winner in the Tigers’ 6-4 exhibition win over Trois Rivieres.
Earlier this week, we reported on Matt Gilroy’s younger brother, Kevin, who plays for the EJHL South Shore Kings. So, in the interest of fairness… Kevin Shattenkirk’s older brother, Keith, a senior forward playing for Princeton, scored the game-winner in the Tigers’ 6-4 exhibition win over Trois Rivieres.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Freshman Reviews
Terrier Blogger asked me to share some thoughts on the performance of the Terrier freshmen during the BU - UNH game, so here goes:
Wilson - I was impressed with his size and strength, which equated to strong play along the boards. He showed poise with the puck and a hint of that Drury-like determination to get the puck back when he lost it. He was strong on faceoffs, including several that went right back to the defenseman behind him. He wasn't as "fleet of foot" as I had hoped, but the pros outweigh the cons heavily. He was arguably the best forward on the ice for BU.
Bonino - He looked comfortable, but didn't stand out, other than his nice move coming down the slot (next time, shoot it earlier, Nick). I noticed him falling once with nobody around, so basically, he looked exactly as advertised. I could see him becoming a Steve Thornton play-alike.
Periera - Nothing fancy, but didn't look out of place. Took a charging call while delivering a big check. Liked his energy.
Shattenkirk - He didn't stand out but made some good decisions on the PP and displayed offensive potential. Made the highlight reel for the wrong reasons (JVR's sweet goal), but I suspect the UNH winger will make many defensemen look silly this season. I wasn't overly impressed with Kevin, but I expect to be before long.
Cohen - I was pleasantly surprised with Colby's play in his own end. He kept his composure under pressure and generally made good decisions. Also looked ready to take control offensively when needed (he can learn a lot watching Gilroy).
Here's hoping that the USNDTP alumni play well for their old host families in Ann Arbor this weekend! And hopefully, Shattenkirk will remind the Wolverine fans why they wanted him so badly.
Wilson - I was impressed with his size and strength, which equated to strong play along the boards. He showed poise with the puck and a hint of that Drury-like determination to get the puck back when he lost it. He was strong on faceoffs, including several that went right back to the defenseman behind him. He wasn't as "fleet of foot" as I had hoped, but the pros outweigh the cons heavily. He was arguably the best forward on the ice for BU.
Bonino - He looked comfortable, but didn't stand out, other than his nice move coming down the slot (next time, shoot it earlier, Nick). I noticed him falling once with nobody around, so basically, he looked exactly as advertised. I could see him becoming a Steve Thornton play-alike.
Periera - Nothing fancy, but didn't look out of place. Took a charging call while delivering a big check. Liked his energy.
Shattenkirk - He didn't stand out but made some good decisions on the PP and displayed offensive potential. Made the highlight reel for the wrong reasons (JVR's sweet goal), but I suspect the UNH winger will make many defensemen look silly this season. I wasn't overly impressed with Kevin, but I expect to be before long.
Cohen - I was pleasantly surprised with Colby's play in his own end. He kept his composure under pressure and generally made good decisions. Also looked ready to take control offensively when needed (he can learn a lot watching Gilroy).
Here's hoping that the USNDTP alumni play well for their old host families in Ann Arbor this weekend! And hopefully, Shattenkirk will remind the Wolverine fans why they wanted him so badly.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Weekend recap
In case you missed it, Scott Weighart’s USCHO recap of Friday’s home-opener paints an accurate picture of how a good effort for much of the game turned into a 4-1 loss. More recaps are in today's Daily Free Press and on CSTV.com. Despite having the territorial advantage for much of the first two period, the fast glove and positioning of UNH goalie Kevin Regan and one-too-many passes by BU forwards combined to keep the Terriers off the board, other than a power play goal by All-American defenseman Matt Gilroy (photo).
Gilroy is a guest this week on CSTV.com’s Tuesday @ the Rink beginning at 1 p.m. ET. Fans are encouraged to register their questions early. No doubt he’ll be asked about BU’s slow start as well as about the freshman class. We expect to post some comments here about the rookies this week. Matt’s younger brother, Kevin, a winger for the EJHL South Shore Kings, bagged a pair of goals, including the game-winner in a win over the Valley Jr. Warriors. Might he follow his brother to Agganis Arena?
Another Free Press article looks at UNH forward James Van Riemsdyk, who along with BU freshmen Colin Wilson and Kevin Shattenkirk and BU 2008 recruit Vinny Saponari, led the NTDP U18s to a silver medal in the World U18 Championships last Spring.
Also over the weekend, Jay Pandolfo beat Rick DiPietro for his third of the season, but DiPietro had the last laugh, stopping two other Pando scoring bids as the Islanders topped the Devils in overtime. Former Terrier Kevin Schaeffer scored his first professional goal in the Reading Royals’s (EJHL) 6-4 win over Johnstown. Brad Zancanaro scored his second of the year in the Florida Everblades’ win against Mississippi.
“Huge” is an understatement for the weekend of future Terriers Corey Trivino and Ethan Werek of Stouffville (OPJHL). The night after their 2 goal, 2 assist performances (see Oct. 18 post), Trivino put up a goal and 3 assists while linemate Werek added four helpers in Stouffville’s second straight shutout win. Then, the two current and future teammates were named to the Canada East squad for the World Jr. A Hockey Challenge in British Columbia next month.
In the USHL, Chris Connolly, who had an assist in Omaha’s win over Ohio, remains the leading scorer (4-5-9) for the undefeated Lancers. Out in Alberta, Spruce Grove dropped a 3-2 overtime game despite 27 saves by Kieran Millan.
“Huge” is an understatement for the weekend of future Terriers Corey Trivino and Ethan Werek of Stouffville (OPJHL). The night after their 2 goal, 2 assist performances (see Oct. 18 post), Trivino put up a goal and 3 assists while linemate Werek added four helpers in Stouffville’s second straight shutout win. Then, the two current and future teammates were named to the Canada East squad for the World Jr. A Hockey Challenge in British Columbia next month.
In the USHL, Chris Connolly, who had an assist in Omaha’s win over Ohio, remains the leading scorer (4-5-9) for the undefeated Lancers. Out in Alberta, Spruce Grove dropped a 3-2 overtime game despite 27 saves by Kieran Millan.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Thursday Link-o-rama
The Daily Free Press today published its annual hockey supplement. It includes features on Captain Brian McGurik, Pete MacArthur and the trio of netminders who will try to fill John Curry’s skates. A piece on Agganis Arena emerges more as a look back to the days of 3805 filling low-ceilinged Walter Brown Arena.
All Access Sign Up
While the anticipated announcement has not yet appeared on the BU athletics Web site, there now is a link to sign up for All-Access service for this season. On the men's hockey page, in the red "schedules" block under the UNH game, click "watch" and you can register. All Access provides the video feed from the Agganis Arena scoreboard synched with the radio broadcast team of Bernie Corbett and Tom Ryan. The price for the season, which includes all home games, some women's games and a few basketball games, remains $19.95. A veritable bargain.
All Access Sign Up
While the anticipated announcement has not yet appeared on the BU athletics Web site, there now is a link to sign up for All-Access service for this season. On the men's hockey page, in the red "schedules" block under the UNH game, click "watch" and you can register. All Access provides the video feed from the Agganis Arena scoreboard synched with the radio broadcast team of Bernie Corbett and Tom Ryan. The price for the season, which includes all home games, some women's games and a few basketball games, remains $19.95. A veritable bargain.
In a USA Hockey feature article on former U18 captain Kevin Shattenkirk, his NTDP Ron Rolston compares his play with NHLers Tampa Bay's Dan Boyle and Dallas blueliner Sergei Zubov. Shattenkirk was a football standout in gradeschool, but when the emerging hockey star went to The Brunswick School, his hockey coach insisted his gridiron exploits be limited to placekicking.
Sully settles in
The St. Petersburg Times looks at how ex-Terrier captain and Bruins head coach Mike Sullivan is fitting in and assuming expanded responsibilities as the Tampa Bay Lightning’s new assistant coach. A favorite Sullivan story is told by Corbett. During the NHL lockout season, the Terriers played an exhibition against a group of mostly NHL level alums, including Mike,, who Corbett coached. Following the game, Sullivan’s father cornered Bernie and in perfect deadpan told him, “I want to talk about my son’s icetime.” Sullivan’s parents will have an added rooting interest in the Terriers next season when their godson, NTDP U18 defenseman David Warsofsky, will be a freshman. Eight games into the U18s season, Warsofsky is the team’s leading scorer with 3-4-7/ The U18s, who lost to Colorado College and Air Force last weekend, have this week off.
Alums hit the scoresheet
Sully settles in
The St. Petersburg Times looks at how ex-Terrier captain and Bruins head coach Mike Sullivan is fitting in and assuming expanded responsibilities as the Tampa Bay Lightning’s new assistant coach. A favorite Sullivan story is told by Corbett. During the NHL lockout season, the Terriers played an exhibition against a group of mostly NHL level alums, including Mike,, who Corbett coached. Following the game, Sullivan’s father cornered Bernie and in perfect deadpan told him, “I want to talk about my son’s icetime.” Sullivan’s parents will have an added rooting interest in the Terriers next season when their godson, NTDP U18 defenseman David Warsofsky, will be a freshman. Eight games into the U18s season, Warsofsky is the team’s leading scorer with 3-4-7/ The U18s, who lost to Colorado College and Air Force last weekend, have this week off.
Alums hit the scoresheet
Last night’s NHL schedule had some good performances for ex-Terriers. Keith Tkachuk’s goal and assist led the Blues past the Blackhawks, while Jay Pandolfo scored for the second straight game as the Devil’s edged the Penguins and Ryan Whitney, 5-4. Over in the AHL, in his last outing for Red Wings’ affiliate Grand Rapids, Carl Corazzini scored the overtime winner against Manitoba, beating ex-BCer Cory Schneider.
Looking ahead
The Stouffville Spirit’s opponent tonight was Couchiching, but the guys doing the cashing in at the net were future Terriers Corey Trivino (2008) and Ethan Werek (2009). Each rang up a pair of goals and a pair of helpers in a 7-0 win. Trivino opened the scoring with an assist going to Werek. The two reversed roles on the second goal and the rout was on.
Looking ahead
The Stouffville Spirit’s opponent tonight was Couchiching, but the guys doing the cashing in at the net were future Terriers Corey Trivino (2008) and Ethan Werek (2009). Each rang up a pair of goals and a pair of helpers in a 7-0 win. Trivino opened the scoring with an assist going to Werek. The two reversed roles on the second goal and the rout was on.
Skills Competition Results
Blog contributor buoldtimer and the missus took in Monday's skills competition at Agganis Arena and provides us this report:
I attended the BU Terrier preseason event that was held at Agganis Arena this past Monday. The event was entertaining, but was shorter than I expected. It was advertised as lasting from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. Actually, the activities commenced at approximately 4:15 PM and concluded around 4:50. Given that the team spent Sunday returning from Alaska, the brevity of the event was understandable. Also, let’s face it, there’s only so much you can do unless a full-scale practice is on the agenda.
The only player absent from the proceedings was Ryan Monaghan. There was no explanation provided for his absence. Otherwise, all players participated in the drills; however each drill was limited to a subset of the roster.
After the team was introduced, by class, sets of three forwards were selected to simulate a 3 on 0 break-in from the offensive blueline against one of the goalies. The first few iterations were a little slow to say the least. My wife asked me if the drill was intended to make the goalies look good. I think Jack Parker advised the boys to pick up the pace since the second set of reps was played out at a faster clip.
Next up was the hardest shot competition. A fellow crouched behind the net with a speed gun as each contestant skated to mid slot for a slap shot. Each competitor had two shots. Brandon Yip won the competition with a 92 MPH shot, edging Brian Strait whose best slapper was clocked at 90 MPH.
One on one followed; one skater breaking in on a goalie. The competition was whittled down to Nick Bonino and Jason Lawrence. Bonino (photo) beat the goalie on three attempts and eventually defeated Lawrence to emerge as the champion of the breakaways. Two of his goals came on moves on which he drew the goaltender off the short side post while moving from right to left across the goal crease and tucking a one hander behind the goalie to the short side. Bonino’s third goal was a quick release to the top right corner.
The event concluded with hockey’s version of short track speed skating. Each net was moved up to mid-slot. Each race was between two skaters who started in opposite directions from the redline around the shortened rink. Parker was the arbiter of which skater crossed the redline as the winner of the heat. Steve Smolinsky and Brian McGuirk skated their ways to the final, although John McCarthy gave Smolinsky all he could handle in one of the semifinals. McGuirk earned the title as the Apolo Ohno of BU Hockey as he barely defeated Smolinsky in the final.
At this point, Jack Parker concluded the session by thanking everyone for attending. He apologized that the trip to Alaska precluded Midnight Madness this season, and stated that the popular event will return next season.
The only player absent from the proceedings was Ryan Monaghan. There was no explanation provided for his absence. Otherwise, all players participated in the drills; however each drill was limited to a subset of the roster.
After the team was introduced, by class, sets of three forwards were selected to simulate a 3 on 0 break-in from the offensive blueline against one of the goalies. The first few iterations were a little slow to say the least. My wife asked me if the drill was intended to make the goalies look good. I think Jack Parker advised the boys to pick up the pace since the second set of reps was played out at a faster clip.
Next up was the hardest shot competition. A fellow crouched behind the net with a speed gun as each contestant skated to mid slot for a slap shot. Each competitor had two shots. Brandon Yip won the competition with a 92 MPH shot, edging Brian Strait whose best slapper was clocked at 90 MPH.
One on one followed; one skater breaking in on a goalie. The competition was whittled down to Nick Bonino and Jason Lawrence. Bonino (photo) beat the goalie on three attempts and eventually defeated Lawrence to emerge as the champion of the breakaways. Two of his goals came on moves on which he drew the goaltender off the short side post while moving from right to left across the goal crease and tucking a one hander behind the goalie to the short side. Bonino’s third goal was a quick release to the top right corner.
The event concluded with hockey’s version of short track speed skating. Each net was moved up to mid-slot. Each race was between two skaters who started in opposite directions from the redline around the shortened rink. Parker was the arbiter of which skater crossed the redline as the winner of the heat. Steve Smolinsky and Brian McGuirk skated their ways to the final, although John McCarthy gave Smolinsky all he could handle in one of the semifinals. McGuirk earned the title as the Apolo Ohno of BU Hockey as he barely defeated Smolinsky in the final.
At this point, Jack Parker concluded the session by thanking everyone for attending. He apologized that the trip to Alaska precluded Midnight Madness this season, and stated that the popular event will return next season.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Nye Classic Leftovers & More
When the Terriers scored 17 seconds into Saturday’s game against UA-Anchorage, BU fans had reason to expect a far better outcome than in the Nye Classic opener. That outcome looked nearly certain when BU held a 1-0 lead with five minutes left in the third, but it was not to be as a Seawolves powerplay goal knotted the score at 4-4.
Not only did BU give up the lead in the third period of both games, but as srsterrier notes, BU had a lead in all 6 periods but still came away with only a point for the weekend. That was tough to take.
Soph goalie Brett Bennett was sharp in the BU cage and probably could be faulted on only one of the Seawolves’ scoress. On the game-tying goal, BU had virtually killed Ryan Weston’s hit-from-behind penalty when a UAA skater was unmarked skating to the net and scored with 11 powerplay seconds and two minutes overall remaining.
Both freshmen forwards Nick Bonino and Colin Wilson picked up a pair of assists and Boomer Ewing became the first Terrier to register a two-goal game this season. Senior Ryan Monaghan who had no points in limited action during the previous two seasons, came home from Alaska with a goal and also an assist on a pinpoint pass to Brian McGuirk.
The home opener against UNH this Friday will not be televised on CN8 as previously reported here. For those unable to attend, the only viewing option will be BU’s All-Access service. A news release on the BU later today should announce the details and provide sign-up instructions.
Preparing to face the Wildcats, the Terriers conducted their annual skills competition. Winners included Brandon Yip (fastest shot), Bonino (shoot out) and McGuirk (skating speed). We hope to have more details later in the week.
Not only did BU give up the lead in the third period of both games, but as srsterrier notes, BU had a lead in all 6 periods but still came away with only a point for the weekend. That was tough to take.
Soph goalie Brett Bennett was sharp in the BU cage and probably could be faulted on only one of the Seawolves’ scoress. On the game-tying goal, BU had virtually killed Ryan Weston’s hit-from-behind penalty when a UAA skater was unmarked skating to the net and scored with 11 powerplay seconds and two minutes overall remaining.
Both freshmen forwards Nick Bonino and Colin Wilson picked up a pair of assists and Boomer Ewing became the first Terrier to register a two-goal game this season. Senior Ryan Monaghan who had no points in limited action during the previous two seasons, came home from Alaska with a goal and also an assist on a pinpoint pass to Brian McGuirk.
The home opener against UNH this Friday will not be televised on CN8 as previously reported here. For those unable to attend, the only viewing option will be BU’s All-Access service. A news release on the BU later today should announce the details and provide sign-up instructions.
Preparing to face the Wildcats, the Terriers conducted their annual skills competition. Winners included Brandon Yip (fastest shot), Bonino (shoot out) and McGuirk (skating speed). We hope to have more details later in the week.
Chris Connolly’s two goals and an assist for Omaha put him in a tie for the team scoring lead and tied for second in the league. A rookie on the Lancers, he was voted an “A” by his teammates.
Saturday night, former Terrier captain Jay Pandolfo scored his first goal of the season in a barnburner that saw the Devils edge Altanta, 6-5. On the Thrashers’ side, ex-UNH standout Darren Haydar scored his first NHL goal, playing on a line with another former BU opponent, ex-CC sniper Brett Sterling.
Saturday night, former Terrier captain Jay Pandolfo scored his first goal of the season in a barnburner that saw the Devils edge Altanta, 6-5. On the Thrashers’ side, ex-UNH standout Darren Haydar scored his first NHL goal, playing on a line with another former BU opponent, ex-CC sniper Brett Sterling.
Blast from the past
A practice goalie in the late 90s, Ian Arougheti dressed for a game or two during the 97-98 season when BU carried just two goalies---Tom Noble and Michel Larocque—and Nobles was injured. Arrougheti is a name in the news in the current issue of the Bostonia alumni magazine. No longer stopping pucks, he’s representing comedians, now as an agent for Super Artists, Inc., and previously at the William Morris Agency. We’ll have to watch for Ian, who recently came back to Boston for two days and “realized just how much I love this city,” to make an appearance on “Entourage.”
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Recruit Report 10-12-07
Spruce Grove (AJHL) goalie and 2008 recruit Kieran Millan (photo) had seen his team in more than a few high-scoring games this season. Last night, things were different as Millan stopped 25 of 26 shots to lead the struggling Saints to a 2-1 upset of league-leader Ft. McMurray and earned the game's second star.
Vinny Saponari’s goal and assist helped the NTDP U18s stay close to the CC Tigers in Colorado Springs, before falling 6-3. In the OPJHL, Corey Trivino ended a two-game scoring drought with a goal and an assist that led the Stouffville Spirit past Collingwood in overtime, 3-2. 2009 recruit defenseman Max Nicastro had an assist and was +4 in the Chicago Steel's 8-5 win over Sioux Falls in USHL play.
False start: RMU 3-BU 2
The Terriers’ season opener was hardly what BU coaches, players or fans expected. A generally solid effort, with BU dominating for the first 45 minutes, was undone by a hot goalie, three RMU powerplay goals in the space of six minutes and BU’s failure to score on seven man-advantage situations. The turning point came in the third period with BU up 2-0. Twenty seconds after freshman Colin Wilson was whistled for hooking, fellow frosh Colby Cohen was called for cross-checking. The Colonials scored just before the 5-on-3 expired and then quickly added two more powerplays goals. BU couldn’t come up with an equalizer. Karson Gillespie, who stopped several 2-on-1s deserved a better fate. Captain Brian McGuirk (photo) had a goal and an assist to lead BU. For this blogger, there was a strong sense of déjà vu to another surprising early season loss, two years ago to RPI.
More details are in the BU/HE game account and in a wrap-up of both Nye Classic first round games from the UAA Hockey Fan Blog. Following below is a lengthy look at the Seawolves, also courtesy of the UAA Hockey Fan Blog.
Tonight’s game begins at 11 p.m. ET. To watch the Webcast, go to the GCI link and sign up for a gamepass ($4.99) On the radio side, Bernie Corbett’s usual sidekick Tom Ryan didn’t make the trip and his place was taken this weekend by former Terrier, U.S. Olympic and NHL forward Clark Donatelli.
More details are in the BU/HE game account and in a wrap-up of both Nye Classic first round games from the UAA Hockey Fan Blog. Following below is a lengthy look at the Seawolves, also courtesy of the UAA Hockey Fan Blog.
Tonight’s game begins at 11 p.m. ET. To watch the Webcast, go to the GCI link and sign up for a gamepass ($4.99) On the radio side, Bernie Corbett’s usual sidekick Tom Ryan didn’t make the trip and his place was taken this weekend by former Terrier, U.S. Olympic and NHL forward Clark Donatelli.
UAA Preview for BU Fans (provided by UAA Hockey Fan Blogger)
Since the creation of the known universe four-thousand three -hundred twenty-six years, eleven months, twenty-two days, four hours and thiry-nine minutes ago by the almighty FSM, the University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves (a mythical figure from the D’enaina aboriginal culture of Southcentral Alasak) have never beaten the BU Terriers (a little yappy dog bred by Limeys to bark a lot). The saving grace in that unsettling statistic is that UAA and BU have only played once in the preceding 4 millennia. BU won 5-3 during the 99-00 season opening Nye tournament. In this years Nye Frontier (a local car dealership sponsor) the Seawolves will look to even things up. Even though it is a “tournament” the schedule is fixed and the tournament champion will be determined by record. This could mean a shootout (which should make hockey noobs happy if things work out that way). The Terriers were the Nye champs back in 99.
BU fans can watch the game vs. UAA this weekend live on the web at GCI’s website. As of this writing they don’t have the latest schedule up. I’m not sure of the cost (I’m guessing around 6 bucks) but you’ll need broadband access and Real Media player. I’m not schilling for them so if they really want your business they’ll update their page. In any case, the point here is to give you BU fans a bit of information about what to expect from this years edition of the Seawolves, so I’ll get on with that.
UAA has won their tournament 3 out of the past 4 years (including last year). So they’ll be prideful about defending that title. Support in the home rink hasn’t been what it could be over the last few years (and a few before that) but there’ll be more than enough folks in the stands this weekend (Nye attendance averages around 5,000) to make good noise for the hometown team. UAA’s all-time record on home ice is substantially better than it’s road record indicating that travel has some impact. Last year the Seawolves were around the 4th or 5th tallest and heaviest team in all of D1 and this year they’re only marginally smaller. Coach Shyiak knows we play the majority of our games on Olympic sheets so there isn’t anyone on the squad that can’t skate; regardless of their size. So based on those tidbits the Terriers can expect an uptempo but physically tough game from the Seawolves.
Now onto more specifics about play. The Seawolves begin this season under Dave Shyiak in his third year. Under previous coach John Hill the mantra was uptempo and Dave has continued that basic philosophy. Seawolf defensemen always have the green light to lead or jump into the offense under Shyiak’s system. Additionally, possession is an important facet to the attack so BU fans can expect to see all four lines working the boards and the deep zone. Cycling and breaking for the net being the key to success in that mode. The clear #1 line in this years offense is an all-sophomore line composed of #9 Kevin Clark (5’9” 170lbs), #20 Paul Crowder (6’3” 203lbs) and #21 Josh Lunden (6’2” 202lbs). Clark is a hard-nosed playmaking center who can make things happen in just about any circumstance. Josh Lunden is the prototypical British Columbian power winger. He can lay on the hits, carry the puck with speed and is always near the net when appropriate. He scored 11 goals last season and added 9 assists for 3rd on the team. Paul Crowder came from the RBC champion Burnaby Express to UAA and scored 11 goals with 13 assists in his first season. Paul is strong on the puck and scored at least half his goals last season on the backhand. Expect these guys to rack up some quality minutes in the BU zone.
Additional offensive chances are most likely to come from Senior #14 Merit Waldrop (local Anchorage kid) who Doug Woog characterized last year as “…Putting on a clinic” during a playoff game versus the Gophers. Merit had a hat trick (including two shorties) against arguably weak competion last weekend in UAA’s exhibition opener versus Southern Alberta. Senior #27 Peter Cartwright looks to breakout some this season as well. His first three years were spent on the “energy” line but I expect him to look to cash in more offensively in his final season. The rookie class will be looked to this season to contribute on the offensive end. In the one practice and one exhibition game I’ve seen there are four freshman forwards that I judge could be dangerous. #34 Brad McCabe (6’ 201lbs) was ranked in the top 200 in last seasons CSB players to watch list though he wasn’t drafted. He was only two NAHL players so listed. #17 Craig Parkinson (6’ 190lbs) scored 42 goals (6th league-wide in goals) and added 37 assists in 55 games last season for the BCHL Cowichan Valley Capitals. His teammate on that squad Winston Daychief had 31 goals and 43 assists in 59 games. #16 Tommy Grant (6’2” 190lbs) joins the Seawolves from the BCHL’s Westside Warriors where his 36 goals put him at #13 league-wide in that category. When BU is on the power play they’ll need to be aware of #24 Senior Blair Tassone whose quickness and PK skills were key to a halfway decent PK of nearly 82% last season.
On the defensive side last year I said that UAA’s blueliners were all budding Bobby Orr’s. I wouldn’t change that this season either. Every blueliner can move the puck up the ice. The Seawolves Captain this season is # 5 senior Luke Beaverson (6’5” 220lbs) and his skating and puck carrying skills have improved each of his seasons here. Chris at the Western College Hockey blog agrees that Luke may be the most underrated defenseman in the WCHA. Luke does the job well on both ends. He controls play in front of the net or in the corners while in his own end and while he isn’t the top skating defenseman on the team he can (and will) carry the puck and does so well. He also has a very heavy shot. His defensive partner #33 junior Mat Robinson (5’10” 174lbs) is the best skater on the blueline and possibly the smartest defenseman on the ice for the Seawolves. He never gets into a position from which he cannot recover and virtually always comes away from the boards with the puck. I expect Robbie’s offensive abilities to come to the forefront this season. Swede #13 Nils Backstrom (6’1” 202lbs) is another excellent skating puck-possessing style blueliner for UAA. He sees the ice extremely well and makes smart passes in key situations. We all want to see Nils shoot more on the power play this year. Junior defenseman #10 Shane Lovdahl (6’1” 212lbs) is the best open ice hitter on the team (Mat Robinson might argue) and has a cannon in his stick. Shane knows the crowd responds to a good hit and he supplies more than his share in that area. Two freshman impressed me with their skating and puck handling skills this past weekend in UAA’s exhibition game. #4 Kane Lafranchise (6’1” 198lbs) is pegged to become a power play quarterback as he develops and he sure looks to have the skills to make that happen. I liked him in all areas on the ice last weekend and he has one of the great surnames an athlete could have. #23 Slovenian Luka Vidmar (6’1” 192lbs) surprised me with the quality and power of his shot from the point. He mixed his slappers with wrists for attempted deflections smartly and his skating was top-notch.
In the goal the Terriers will be testing #30 Jon Olthuis (6’4” 200lbs). Jonny O provides a big target that is hard for forwards to miss. Taking up a big portion of the net isn’t the best thing Jonny O does though. He is quick and always stays square. He handles the puck well and seems to be unflappable. Running him won’t accomplish anything other than to irritate big Luke Beaverson. Jon’s duties last year were limited but he appeared in 14 games (5 or 6 which were badly out of control and he was just mopping up). His numbers this season should vastly improve. In games he started he did exceptionally well.
So … to keep the summary short. The Seawolves aren’t small, they’re pretty fast and they try to play an uptempo game on the big sheet at the Sully. Hopefully, that will mesh with whatever style Jack Parker has the Terriers playing this season and make for an entertaining hockey game.
If your traveling up to Anchorage to watch the games there you’ll probably want to take a look at a post I made last year for visitors to The Last Frontier. You may have most of your itinerary in place already but there some useful info there. Don’t be shy about visiting the UAA Booster Club room behind the concourse on the north side of the arena. The folks there are always friendly to visitors. Ask for Bruce or Richard and tell them Donald sent ya and they should hook ya up; if they don’t lemme know and I give ‘em a noogie. If you’re looking for me I’ll be the guy the in shorts with a shaved head and goatee. Lastly, I’ll apparently being sitting at Jack Parker’s (oops should I have said Pahkah’s?) table during the Coaches luncheon this week so if you’ve got a question for the coach post it in a comment here and I will be happy to ask.
Since the creation of the known universe four-thousand three -hundred twenty-six years, eleven months, twenty-two days, four hours and thiry-nine minutes ago by the almighty FSM, the University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves (a mythical figure from the D’enaina aboriginal culture of Southcentral Alasak) have never beaten the BU Terriers (a little yappy dog bred by Limeys to bark a lot). The saving grace in that unsettling statistic is that UAA and BU have only played once in the preceding 4 millennia. BU won 5-3 during the 99-00 season opening Nye tournament. In this years Nye Frontier (a local car dealership sponsor) the Seawolves will look to even things up. Even though it is a “tournament” the schedule is fixed and the tournament champion will be determined by record. This could mean a shootout (which should make hockey noobs happy if things work out that way). The Terriers were the Nye champs back in 99.
BU fans can watch the game vs. UAA this weekend live on the web at GCI’s website. As of this writing they don’t have the latest schedule up. I’m not sure of the cost (I’m guessing around 6 bucks) but you’ll need broadband access and Real Media player. I’m not schilling for them so if they really want your business they’ll update their page. In any case, the point here is to give you BU fans a bit of information about what to expect from this years edition of the Seawolves, so I’ll get on with that.
UAA has won their tournament 3 out of the past 4 years (including last year). So they’ll be prideful about defending that title. Support in the home rink hasn’t been what it could be over the last few years (and a few before that) but there’ll be more than enough folks in the stands this weekend (Nye attendance averages around 5,000) to make good noise for the hometown team. UAA’s all-time record on home ice is substantially better than it’s road record indicating that travel has some impact. Last year the Seawolves were around the 4th or 5th tallest and heaviest team in all of D1 and this year they’re only marginally smaller. Coach Shyiak knows we play the majority of our games on Olympic sheets so there isn’t anyone on the squad that can’t skate; regardless of their size. So based on those tidbits the Terriers can expect an uptempo but physically tough game from the Seawolves.
Now onto more specifics about play. The Seawolves begin this season under Dave Shyiak in his third year. Under previous coach John Hill the mantra was uptempo and Dave has continued that basic philosophy. Seawolf defensemen always have the green light to lead or jump into the offense under Shyiak’s system. Additionally, possession is an important facet to the attack so BU fans can expect to see all four lines working the boards and the deep zone. Cycling and breaking for the net being the key to success in that mode. The clear #1 line in this years offense is an all-sophomore line composed of #9 Kevin Clark (5’9” 170lbs), #20 Paul Crowder (6’3” 203lbs) and #21 Josh Lunden (6’2” 202lbs). Clark is a hard-nosed playmaking center who can make things happen in just about any circumstance. Josh Lunden is the prototypical British Columbian power winger. He can lay on the hits, carry the puck with speed and is always near the net when appropriate. He scored 11 goals last season and added 9 assists for 3rd on the team. Paul Crowder came from the RBC champion Burnaby Express to UAA and scored 11 goals with 13 assists in his first season. Paul is strong on the puck and scored at least half his goals last season on the backhand. Expect these guys to rack up some quality minutes in the BU zone.
Additional offensive chances are most likely to come from Senior #14 Merit Waldrop (local Anchorage kid) who Doug Woog characterized last year as “…Putting on a clinic” during a playoff game versus the Gophers. Merit had a hat trick (including two shorties) against arguably weak competion last weekend in UAA’s exhibition opener versus Southern Alberta. Senior #27 Peter Cartwright looks to breakout some this season as well. His first three years were spent on the “energy” line but I expect him to look to cash in more offensively in his final season. The rookie class will be looked to this season to contribute on the offensive end. In the one practice and one exhibition game I’ve seen there are four freshman forwards that I judge could be dangerous. #34 Brad McCabe (6’ 201lbs) was ranked in the top 200 in last seasons CSB players to watch list though he wasn’t drafted. He was only two NAHL players so listed. #17 Craig Parkinson (6’ 190lbs) scored 42 goals (6th league-wide in goals) and added 37 assists in 55 games last season for the BCHL Cowichan Valley Capitals. His teammate on that squad Winston Daychief had 31 goals and 43 assists in 59 games. #16 Tommy Grant (6’2” 190lbs) joins the Seawolves from the BCHL’s Westside Warriors where his 36 goals put him at #13 league-wide in that category. When BU is on the power play they’ll need to be aware of #24 Senior Blair Tassone whose quickness and PK skills were key to a halfway decent PK of nearly 82% last season.
On the defensive side last year I said that UAA’s blueliners were all budding Bobby Orr’s. I wouldn’t change that this season either. Every blueliner can move the puck up the ice. The Seawolves Captain this season is # 5 senior Luke Beaverson (6’5” 220lbs) and his skating and puck carrying skills have improved each of his seasons here. Chris at the Western College Hockey blog agrees that Luke may be the most underrated defenseman in the WCHA. Luke does the job well on both ends. He controls play in front of the net or in the corners while in his own end and while he isn’t the top skating defenseman on the team he can (and will) carry the puck and does so well. He also has a very heavy shot. His defensive partner #33 junior Mat Robinson (5’10” 174lbs) is the best skater on the blueline and possibly the smartest defenseman on the ice for the Seawolves. He never gets into a position from which he cannot recover and virtually always comes away from the boards with the puck. I expect Robbie’s offensive abilities to come to the forefront this season. Swede #13 Nils Backstrom (6’1” 202lbs) is another excellent skating puck-possessing style blueliner for UAA. He sees the ice extremely well and makes smart passes in key situations. We all want to see Nils shoot more on the power play this year. Junior defenseman #10 Shane Lovdahl (6’1” 212lbs) is the best open ice hitter on the team (Mat Robinson might argue) and has a cannon in his stick. Shane knows the crowd responds to a good hit and he supplies more than his share in that area. Two freshman impressed me with their skating and puck handling skills this past weekend in UAA’s exhibition game. #4 Kane Lafranchise (6’1” 198lbs) is pegged to become a power play quarterback as he develops and he sure looks to have the skills to make that happen. I liked him in all areas on the ice last weekend and he has one of the great surnames an athlete could have. #23 Slovenian Luka Vidmar (6’1” 192lbs) surprised me with the quality and power of his shot from the point. He mixed his slappers with wrists for attempted deflections smartly and his skating was top-notch.
In the goal the Terriers will be testing #30 Jon Olthuis (6’4” 200lbs). Jonny O provides a big target that is hard for forwards to miss. Taking up a big portion of the net isn’t the best thing Jonny O does though. He is quick and always stays square. He handles the puck well and seems to be unflappable. Running him won’t accomplish anything other than to irritate big Luke Beaverson. Jon’s duties last year were limited but he appeared in 14 games (5 or 6 which were badly out of control and he was just mopping up). His numbers this season should vastly improve. In games he started he did exceptionally well.
So … to keep the summary short. The Seawolves aren’t small, they’re pretty fast and they try to play an uptempo game on the big sheet at the Sully. Hopefully, that will mesh with whatever style Jack Parker has the Terriers playing this season and make for an entertaining hockey game.
If your traveling up to Anchorage to watch the games there you’ll probably want to take a look at a post I made last year for visitors to The Last Frontier. You may have most of your itinerary in place already but there some useful info there. Don’t be shy about visiting the UAA Booster Club room behind the concourse on the north side of the arena. The folks there are always friendly to visitors. Ask for Bruce or Richard and tell them Donald sent ya and they should hook ya up; if they don’t lemme know and I give ‘em a noogie. If you’re looking for me I’ll be the guy the in shorts with a shaved head and goatee. Lastly, I’ll apparently being sitting at Jack Parker’s (oops should I have said Pahkah’s?) table during the Coaches luncheon this week so if you’ve got a question for the coach post it in a comment here and I will be happy to ask.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
The waiting is over!--Updated
Considering that this post was published this morning, can't explain why it has last night's date. More importantly, BU has posted its game notes for tonight's--that's Friday's--game along with "listen live" and "live stats" links.
Terrier hockey for 2007-2008 begins tonight with a matchup against CHA team Robert Morris in the Nye Frontier Classic. So let's take a look at how Coach Jack Parker sizes up the team in his season preview article. A curious comment in the preview was:
So, is there a potential surprise player, like Matt Gilroy in his freshman year? Perhaps one of the less hyped freshmen, Joe Pereira, or a veteran who has yet to impact the program, Steve Smolinsky. Let's see who suits up for the two games in Alaska.
CSTV's "Rink Rat" Elliott Olshansky explores the Terriers plan to generate more offensive firepower, recalling that in 2005-2006 BU was sixth in the nation in offense. Coach Parker told him: "
Terrier hockey for 2007-2008 begins tonight with a matchup against CHA team Robert Morris in the Nye Frontier Classic. So let's take a look at how Coach Jack Parker sizes up the team in his season preview article. A curious comment in the preview was:
“We know we have talent, but the question is whether we will get the effort and focus to be able to perform every night. I’m confident that we will find 20 guys that can do that, but it may not be the expected 20 guys.”
So, is there a potential surprise player, like Matt Gilroy in his freshman year? Perhaps one of the less hyped freshmen, Joe Pereira, or a veteran who has yet to impact the program, Steve Smolinsky. Let's see who suits up for the two games in Alaska.
CSTV's "Rink Rat" Elliott Olshansky explores the Terriers plan to generate more offensive firepower, recalling that in 2005-2006 BU was sixth in the nation in offense. Coach Parker told him: "
I think our problem will be solved this year. I think we'll have aAnother 2005-06 problem, lack of consistency in games at Agganis Arena, was discussed in a Terrier preview article in today's Boston Globe:
much better power play, which was a big part of it. Also, Yip will
be available for us the entire season, he's really good on the power play and as a five-on-five guy, and we'll have [Bryan] Ewing completely healthy. Having those guys available for the entire season, it's almost like we've got two new forwards. We'll be better all-around from the blueline and the forward perspective as far as offense is concerned."
Last year was frustrating because of the real polarization of how we were at home [9-5-5] vs. how we were on the road [9-2-4]," said Parker. " The guys never were focused at home. Some of them thought they were going to show off in front of the hometown fans, they were trying to get goals in front of their parents, I don't know. It never seemed as if we were anywhere near as good at home as we were on the road. If you asked me to name our top 10 games last year, every one of them would've been on the road. That was a chemistry problem and that was an attitude problem that never seemed to get resolved, but I think that's very much resolved this year."
If improving the offense and powerplay is the #1 priority for this year's Terrier, then making Agganis Arena once again an uncomfortable place for opponents to visit is #1A.
The Daily Free Press sizes up tonight's game and let's Coach Parker explain so of the team- and chemistry-building efforts that are part of the trip to Alaska.
For tonight's opener, we'll post SID Brian Kelley's gamenotes later today and hopefully Dave Hendrickson's first weekly Hockey East column and season preview on USCHO. For a look at tonight's opponent, the Robert Morris University, check the CHN preview of the Colonials and USCHO's RMU preview. We'll post a lengthy preview of UA-Anchorage tomorrow.
With no telecast or Web cast available tonight, radio is the way to follow the action. This season all BU hockey (and basketball) games will be on WWZN, a 50,000 watt station. There's a listen live link on the station's Web site. You can also access it from the BU GoTerriers men's hockey page under "Quick Links. Longtime play-by-play announcer Bernie Corbett and analyst Tom Ryan are again the broadcast team.
More Kudos for Matt Gilroy. He was named to INCH's pre-season first team All-American team. INCH also began its weekly power ratings of all 59 D1 team. The Terriers, currently 8th the USA Today Poll and 9th in USCHO/CSTV's, were pegged at 9th by INCH.
2009 recruit Ethan Werek's three-game weekend got off to an early start as the Stouffville Spirit hammered Seguin, 7-0. Werek contributed a powerplay goal and an assist.Wednesday, October 10, 2007
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.
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.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Games Galore
The Terriers first game, against Robert Morris in the Nye Classic in Anchorage, is still five days away, but a number of future opponents hit the ice this past weekend for exhibition games. Alaska Anchorage thumped S.Alberta IT Friday, while RMU, Michigan, Massachusetts and Vermont all earned wins today. Maine’s tune-up last night was also the first Division 1 game for the NTDP U18s this season. Billy Ryan’s hattrick powered the Black Bears to a close 5-3 win. BU 2008 recruit Vinny Saponari’s wrap-around goal pulled the U18s within a goal early in the third and later he and David Warsofsky assisted on a powerplay goal to narrow the lead again, before Ryan’s ENG.
Friday night, Ethan Werek picked up his 2nd game of the year in his fourth game for Stouffville since returning from a tweaked knee.
In USHL play, newest 2008 recruit Chris Connolly scored a pair of goals—one shorthanded—and an assist to lead Omaha past his brother’s Sioux Falls team, 6-3. 2009 recruit Max Nicastro didn’t hit the scoresheet in Chicago’s first win of the season, but the 6-2 defenseman from California who is being mentored by Chicago Steel Coach Steve Poapst, a former Colgate standout and NHL blueliner, earned some praise from McKeen’s editor Max Geise:
Brian Durocher's women's hockey team, now in its third varsity season, opened its year in St. Paul playing two national powers, North Dakota and Minnesota in the Nike Bauer Women's Classic. The Terriers came away with a hard-earned 2-2 tie against the Sioux and fell to the 7th ranked Gophers, 4-2, after leading 2-1, after two.
Friday night, Ethan Werek picked up his 2nd game of the year in his fourth game for Stouffville since returning from a tweaked knee.
In USHL play, newest 2008 recruit Chris Connolly scored a pair of goals—one shorthanded—and an assist to lead Omaha past his brother’s Sioux Falls team, 6-3. 2009 recruit Max Nicastro didn’t hit the scoresheet in Chicago’s first win of the season, but the 6-2 defenseman from California who is being mentored by Chicago Steel Coach Steve Poapst, a former Colgate standout and NHL blueliner, earned some praise from McKeen’s editor Max Geise:
Nicastro is an impressive prospect in his own right. He possesses a little bit of everything, with no glaring flaws. He can move the puck and play a physical game, but he projects to be a no-nonsense, shut down defenseman if he reaches the NHL.
Brian Durocher's women's hockey team, now in its third varsity season, opened its year in St. Paul playing two national powers, North Dakota and Minnesota in the Nike Bauer Women's Classic. The Terriers came away with a hard-earned 2-2 tie against the Sioux and fell to the 7th ranked Gophers, 4-2, after leading 2-1, after two.
Good reading
There’s no shortage of pre-season preview articles and lists for the college hockey community to devour as the first official games approach. Here are just a few:
College Hockey News issued a pre-season “all CHN” team with junior blueliner Matt Gilroy (photo) making the first team and senior wing Pete MacArthur the second. Analyst Dave Starman opined that Mac “has the best slap shot of any forward in the country.” CHN’s two installments of Things To Watch (1, 2) include the BU-Cornell and BU-Michigan matchups, which it calls “can’t miss” games, and the well-regarded Terrier freshmen class.
Inside College Hockey has begun its own series of conference previews, including one on Hockey East. WCHA, CHA and CCHA previews are posted too.
Hockeysfuture.com also has gotten into the act and offers a CHA preview that provides an introduction to a Robert Morris University team that the Terriers will meet for the first time. RMU earned an upset win last season over eventual CCHA champion Notre Dame. Later this week, we’ll post a preview of Alaska-Anchorage, BU’s second game opponent at the Nye Frontier Classic. That is coming to us courtesy of The UAA Fan Blog, with whom we’re conducting a team preview exchange.
Inside College Hockey has begun its own series of conference previews, including one on Hockey East. WCHA, CHA and CCHA previews are posted too.
Hockeysfuture.com also has gotten into the act and offers a CHA preview that provides an introduction to a Robert Morris University team that the Terriers will meet for the first time. RMU earned an upset win last season over eventual CCHA champion Notre Dame. Later this week, we’ll post a preview of Alaska-Anchorage, BU’s second game opponent at the Nye Frontier Classic. That is coming to us courtesy of The UAA Fan Blog, with whom we’re conducting a team preview exchange.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Recruiting update: Connolly & more
We have additional coverage of the verbal commitment BU received this week for 2008 from Omaha Lancers’ left wing Chris Connolly. After spending his first two post-high school years racking up big numbers for the Fargo-Moorhead Jets of the NAHL, Connolly earned a spot on the Lancers. In their pre-season games with QMJHL teams in Quebec, he had 2 goals and 3 assists and a +5 against Rimouski and a shorthander against Oceanic.
His strong play continued at the USHL Fall Classic, leading Lancers Coach Mike Hastings to say:
The Lancers, who are expected to challenge for the USHL’s Clark Cup, outscored three opponents in the Fall Classic by a combined 15-1 score. Regular season play begins this season with Omaha meeting Tri City and Sioux Falls.
As a Lancer, Connolly has at least four teammates who are future opponents: Will O’Neill and Joey Diamond (Maine) Matt White (UNH) and Barry Almeida (BC). Another teammate, Polish-born defenseman Patrick Wiercioch, who now hails from Maple Grove, BC, is one of the top-rated 2009 prospects.
Also at the USHL Fall Classic, 2009 recruit defenseman Max Nicastro of the Chicago Steel registered his first USHL goal. Last season, Nicastro, skating for the Los Angeles Jr. Kings, netted 17 goals.
USHL Futures Draft
Terrier 2009 recruit Ethan Werek, currently playing for the Stouffville Spirit (OPJHL), was taken in the first round, 13th overall, of the USHL futures draft by the Indiana Ice. His longtime friend, Northeastern recruit Daniel Erlich, also was taken in the first round. Jordan Mayer, like Werek, a first round 2007 OHL draft choice who elected to stay in Junior A, was selected by Indiana with the first second round pick. So, Werek now has several options: stay with Stouffville until joining BU in 2009, play next season with Indiana in the USHL or sign on with Kingston in the OHL. Terrier fans will be happy with either of the first two choices. An update on Werek's status was reported by a newspaper with a decidedly pro-Stouffville viewpoint.
The Spirit lost last night to Orangeville, 7-4, despite Corey Trivino's third goal of the OPJHL regular season. The Spirit gave up two four goals--two were empty-netters--in the final 96 seconds. The Spirit try to get back in the win column tonight against Aurora..
U18s at Alfond
On Saturday, the NTDP U18s team takes a big step up from NAHL competition and plays an exhibition game with the Maine Black Bears in Orono. Going into the game, BU 2008 recruit, defenseman David Warsofsky leads the team in scoring with 3 goals and 3 assists.
Linked to the numbers
With nearly all of BU’s 2008 and 2009 recruits having begun their seasons, we’ve added a group of links to the sidebar on the right side of the blog for quickly checking the scoring totals for each, except, of course, Kieran Millan whose goalie stats are linked.
His strong play continued at the USHL Fall Classic, leading Lancers Coach Mike Hastings to say:
“Chris has been one of our most consistent and dynamic players we have had so far this year. “We are very happy for Chris and his family to see him rewarded for all of the hard work and dedication he has shown over the past two years developing his game in Fargo- Moorhead. From the time that we drafted him in June, to our preseason tournaments in Quebec and Sioux City, he has gone fromThe Western College Hockey Blog called Connolly “a dynamic offensive player that should help improve BU's offense."
hoping to make our team to being one of the most sought after forwards in the USHL.”
The Lancers, who are expected to challenge for the USHL’s Clark Cup, outscored three opponents in the Fall Classic by a combined 15-1 score. Regular season play begins this season with Omaha meeting Tri City and Sioux Falls.
As a Lancer, Connolly has at least four teammates who are future opponents: Will O’Neill and Joey Diamond (Maine) Matt White (UNH) and Barry Almeida (BC). Another teammate, Polish-born defenseman Patrick Wiercioch, who now hails from Maple Grove, BC, is one of the top-rated 2009 prospects.
Also at the USHL Fall Classic, 2009 recruit defenseman Max Nicastro of the Chicago Steel registered his first USHL goal. Last season, Nicastro, skating for the Los Angeles Jr. Kings, netted 17 goals.
USHL Futures Draft
Terrier 2009 recruit Ethan Werek, currently playing for the Stouffville Spirit (OPJHL), was taken in the first round, 13th overall, of the USHL futures draft by the Indiana Ice. His longtime friend, Northeastern recruit Daniel Erlich, also was taken in the first round. Jordan Mayer, like Werek, a first round 2007 OHL draft choice who elected to stay in Junior A, was selected by Indiana with the first second round pick. So, Werek now has several options: stay with Stouffville until joining BU in 2009, play next season with Indiana in the USHL or sign on with Kingston in the OHL. Terrier fans will be happy with either of the first two choices. An update on Werek's status was reported by a newspaper with a decidedly pro-Stouffville viewpoint.
The Spirit lost last night to Orangeville, 7-4, despite Corey Trivino's third goal of the OPJHL regular season. The Spirit gave up two four goals--two were empty-netters--in the final 96 seconds. The Spirit try to get back in the win column tonight against Aurora..
U18s at Alfond
On Saturday, the NTDP U18s team takes a big step up from NAHL competition and plays an exhibition game with the Maine Black Bears in Orono. Going into the game, BU 2008 recruit, defenseman David Warsofsky leads the team in scoring with 3 goals and 3 assists.
Linked to the numbers
With nearly all of BU’s 2008 and 2009 recruits having begun their seasons, we’ve added a group of links to the sidebar on the right side of the blog for quickly checking the scoring totals for each, except, of course, Kieran Millan whose goalie stats are linked.
Take me to The Garden
NY Rangers game 1- Chris Drury: game-winning goal, two assists, first star---ho, hum. Another night at the [off]ICE for one of the NHL's most dependable performers. Centering for Jaromir Jagr and Martin Straka, Drury reminded his new teammates and Ranger fans that clutch goals are his trademark, scoring the 53rd game-winner (video)of his professionial career. As the Associated Press game recap put it, "Third period, tie game. Just call it Chris Drury Time."
Earlier in the week, Drury participated with Jack Parker, Cornell Coach Mike Schafer and ex-Big Red and NHL star Joe Nieuwendyk in a media call to promote the upcoming Red Hot Hockey game between the Terriers and Cornell on November 24.
Earlier in the week, Drury participated with Jack Parker, Cornell Coach Mike Schafer and ex-Big Red and NHL star Joe Nieuwendyk in a media call to promote the upcoming Red Hot Hockey game between the Terriers and Cornell on November 24.
Some notes from the media call:
--The idea for the game was Coach Parker’s. The university was seeking a “splashy event” to wrap around new BU President Robert Brown’s visit to New York. Jack, who had played in Madison Square Garden in 1966 during the three-game Holiday Festival, suggested that event should be a hockey game, with the caveat that Cornell, another Div. 1 school with a strong alumni presence in the New York City area. Both Cornell and Madison Square Garden quickly came onboard and the game promotions began.
--The idea for the game was Coach Parker’s. The university was seeking a “splashy event” to wrap around new BU President Robert Brown’s visit to New York. Jack, who had played in Madison Square Garden in 1966 during the three-game Holiday Festival, suggested that event should be a hockey game, with the caveat that Cornell, another Div. 1 school with a strong alumni presence in the New York City area. Both Cornell and Madison Square Garden quickly came onboard and the game promotions began.
--BU and Cornell will play once in the 2008-2009 season and once the following year with games in Boston and Ithaca.
--Drury pointed out that the Rangers’ schedule had him at home on the 24th and that he and his extended family would join Terrier fans at the game.
--Coach Parker revealed his most memorable BU-Cornell games as both a player and coach. As a player, it was a 4-3 loss to the Big Red in the 1967 ECAC semi-final game, despite the Terriers outshooting Cornell by a wide margin. As a coach, he cited the ECAC semi-final in 1974, his first year behind the BU bench. BU won that one 7-3, sparked by “an unbelievable goal by Vic Stanfield.” (Prior to the Nov. 24, game, we’ll post a series of recollections from former BU players and coaches of the BU-Cornell rivalry.)
--Drury pointed out that the Rangers’ schedule had him at home on the 24th and that he and his extended family would join Terrier fans at the game.
--Coach Parker revealed his most memorable BU-Cornell games as both a player and coach. As a player, it was a 4-3 loss to the Big Red in the 1967 ECAC semi-final game, despite the Terriers outshooting Cornell by a wide margin. As a coach, he cited the ECAC semi-final in 1974, his first year behind the BU bench. BU won that one 7-3, sparked by “an unbelievable goal by Vic Stanfield.” (Prior to the Nov. 24, game, we’ll post a series of recollections from former BU players and coaches of the BU-Cornell rivalry.)
--Drury's played just one game against Cornell while a Terrier. The 7-1 win in November 1995 was the 500th of Parker's coaching career.
For Drury fans, another interview, some mutual admiration between Chris and Brian Leetch and a profile from the UConn student daily.
For Drury fans, another interview, some mutual admiration between Chris and Brian Leetch and a profile from the UConn student daily.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Quinn reels in another forward
Today, BU received a verbal for 2008 from Omaha Lancers forward Chris Connolly, who, according to USHR, emerged as the "consensus top available forward" at the just completed USHL Fall Classic where Terrier assistant head coach David Quinn was in attendence. BU beat out Maine, Colorado College and Minn-Duluth for Connolly who is a native of Duluth and whose younger brother, Jack, has verballed to UMD. A 5-9, 165 left shot, he played the past two years at Fargo-Morehead in the NAHL. His scoring line last year was 20-56-76 and over his two NAHL seasons, Connolly had just 26 minutes of penalties. At Duluth Marshall High School, Connolly became an all-state performer.
USHR reports: He's a is "a smart player who is constantly looking to make plays. He keeps his feet moving, has good balance, and moves the puck quickly and accurately. A left shot, he appeared at both LW and RW over the weekend. He has many attributes of a top center as well. On the power play, he manned the left point very efficiently."
2008 recruit class forwards: Trivino, Glass, Saponari, Connolly.
More details to follow.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Dressed to the Nines
What a difference six months makes! In the final USCHO poll of the 2006-07 season, BU was ninth. And now, almost half a year later with much off-season effort invested, no unexpected defections and a freshman class ranked second in the nation by INCH and Red Line Report, the Terriers are ranked….still ninth, in both the USCHO and USA Today/USA Hockey polls.
Both polls put North Dakota at the top of the heap. The USA Today poll ranks defending national champion Michigan State second and BC third, while USCHO has the reverse. Both polls rank New Hampshire sixth. Maine was 12th in the USCHO poll and 13th in USA Today’s. Vermont snared 20th in the USCHO poll. A year ago, BU was the USCHO pre-season pick for third.
Odds and ends...
Both polls put North Dakota at the top of the heap. The USA Today poll ranks defending national champion Michigan State second and BC third, while USCHO has the reverse. Both polls rank New Hampshire sixth. Maine was 12th in the USCHO poll and 13th in USA Today’s. Vermont snared 20th in the USCHO poll. A year ago, BU was the USCHO pre-season pick for third.
Odds and ends...
The Warrior Rink Rat Blog looked at the percentage of goals each Hockey East team lost since last season due to graduations and early departures. BU has the smallest percentage lost with 23.4. Maine tops the chart with 72.4 percent of its goals gone. The data, which we was forward to the blog this week, were generated in May, so summer defections--only Lowell's Jason Bergeron comes to mind--would not apply.
College Hockey News managing editor and CSTV studio host Adam Wodon checks in on the reprecussions of Wayne State's plan to drop men's hockey as a varsity sports after the 2007-08 season and reveals Mercyhurst's efforts to find a solution that saves the NCAA tourney autobids that seem likely to be lost.
Hockey East announced that its 25th anniversary season (2008-09) plans include creation of a highlight DVD chronicling the league's history along with numerous team and individual achievements.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Monday Linkorama—Catching Up
The release of INCH’s annual recruit class rankings found BU with the #2 group of freshman, just ahead of New Hampshire and just behind Wisconsin’s class, with its three NHL first round draft choices. Colin Wilson (photo) was rated the third best incoming forward, behind UW’s Kyle Turris and Wilson’s US NTDP U18 linemate, James VanRiemsdyk, a UNH recruit. Kevin Shattenkirk was the second ranked blueliner with Colby Cohen rated sixth.
Training with the stars
Jennifer Garner’s mention of BU hockey on the David Letterman Show last week caught the attention of The Boston Herald’s "Tracked Down column:"
The Kingdom” star Jennifer Garner grousing to late-night king David Letterman that Boston University’s hockey hunks refused to flirt with her when she trained with them last summer to get in shape for her flick (although one Terrier did ask if she knew Jessica Alba!)
Apparently, BU strength and conditioning guru Mike Boyle has one very nasty glare.
NTDP U-18 update
With his verbal commitment to BU for 2008 made, Vinny Saponari, the Terriers’ newest recruit for 2008, scored his first goal of the season for the NTDP U18 team. He added an assist and received the first star in a 7-2 win over Mahoning Valley. His teammate and fellow 2008 recruit David Warsofsky scored his third goal of the year in the game. Both were scoreless the next night when Mahoning Valley blanked the U18s, 1-0. Next weekend, the competition gets tougher, as Coach John Hynes’ U18s visit Orono for an exhibition game with Maine.
More Media Day comments: McCarthy readies for bigger role
More Media Day comments: McCarthy readies for bigger role
During last week's Hockey East Media Day, The Lawrence Eagle talked with Coach Jack Parker about his plans for junior center John McCarthy:
Throughout his first two seasons with Boston University, Andover's John McCarthy has been primarily a fourth-line center. This season, head coach Jack Parker will look to the St. John's Prep grad for more offense, while still sticking to the things he does best." John will be given the opportunity to play in a lot more key offensive situations," Parker said. "We probably should have moved him up last year. He won't be just a penalty killer and fourth-line center like in the past. He is so good killing penalties though, we need to use him there, but he will get more offensive ice time, too."
Women’s hockey
BU’s opening game in the Nye Classic in Anchorage is still 11 days away, but Brian Durocher’s women’s varsity played its first game, beating Missasauga Jr. Chiefs, 6-2 at Walter Brown Arena. The Lady Terriers, now in their third season, were picked for fourth place in the Hockey East coaches poll. They open up next weekend in the Bauer Nike Women's Classic, meeting both North Dakota and Minnesota in St. Paul.
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