Michigan Pro Hockey

This Week In The IHL - Nov. 5

2007-11-05T17:15:00.001-08:00

IHL PRESS RELEASE --

The third week of action caused a shake-up in the IHL standings as the Flint Generals have taken over first place with nine points (4-1-0-1). Flint won both games they played this weekend, the first coming Friday (11/2) with a 2-1 victory over Kalamazoo at Wings Stadium. The Generals then returned home to Flint to hand out a 5-2 loss to Bloomington .

This weekend was eventful for Port Huron as their season-high four game winning streak was snapped on home ice Saturday (11/3) after the K-Wings defeated the Icehawks. Kalamazoo scored a league-high six goals in the 6-3 victory, with Nick Bootland and Mike Manley each scoring two goals a piece. The Icehawks have dropped to second place with eight points (4-4-0-0).

Fort Wayne rookie Luciano Aquino scored the IHL’s first hat trick of the 2007-08 season. Aquino’s three goals were scored vs. Muskegon Saturday (11/3) in front of the home crowd of 7,923 in Fort Wayne . Aquino scored three different ways as he scored a goal shorthanded, one on the power play and one at even strength. The third tally turned out to be the game winner as the Komets shut down the Fury to earn the 5-2 victory.

AROUND THE “I”

Bloomington PrairieThunder - (2-1-0-0) – Of its four wins this season, the PrairieThunder has had to rally from behind to earn the victories and only twice this season has the PrairieThunder scored the first goal of the game. Goalie Loic Lacasse registered his first professional victory with a 3-2 win over Port Huron on Sunday. He stopped all 15 shots in faced in the first period and halted 25 of 27 for the game. Don Parsons had a five-game scoring streak stopped in Flint on Saturday. Jason Ralph leads the team, scoring in six of seven, followed by Parsons and Cory Laylin with five each. The PrairieThunder has scored one power play goal in each of its seven games, while limiting the opponent to power play goals in only three of seven games.

Flint Generals - (2-0-0-0) – The Flint Generals are alone in first place in the IHL heading into week four. The Generals will have a first place showdown with Port Huron on Friday night. The Ice Hawks are second. Specialty teams have been outstanding lately for the Flint Generals as they are first overall on the power play and second overall on the penalty kill. It took a while but the Generals finally have some company atop the shorthanded goal department. It took three weeks before Fort Wayne fired a shorthanded goal. Prior to that, the Generals owned the IHL’s lone goal. The Flint Generals have gone two straight games without allowing a third period goal. The team had been outscored 8-2 in the third period but has erased that with no goals against in the third period the last two.

Fort Wayne Komets - (1-1-1-0) – After six games, the third place Komets (3-2-1-0, 7 pts.) are two points behind league leader Flint (4-1-0-1, 9 pts.). Saturday's 5-2 home win vs. Muskegon extends Fort Wayne 's home win streak to three games while extending road winless streak to three games. Komets have outscored opponents at home 12-3 (5-11 on the road). Rookie winger Luciano Aquino scored the Komet's first hat trick (and the only hat trick in the IHL) of the season Saturday in 5-2 win over visiting Muskegon . Aquino leads Komets with four goals. Rookie center Mathieu Curadeau had points in each of the first five games of the season (3g, 2a) before having his point-streak snapped Sunday at Kalamazoo. Rookie defenseman Jake Pence leads IHL with +7 and Guy Dupuis (D) leads IHL defensemen with 27 shots.

Kalamazoo Wings - (2-1-0-0) – Kory Karlander is one game shy of 700 in his career. Kalamazoo ’s head coach Brian Curran is one game shy of 500 in his coaching career. Goaltender Jeremy Symington stopped a combined 85 shots in two wins this weekend. Nick Bootland, Kory Karlander and Jamie Vanderveeken are all on three-game point streaks. Kalamazoo started a four-game home stand yesterday with a victory against Fort Wayne . After lighting the lamp nine times in its first four games of the season, Kalamazoo offense has exploded, scoring nine goals over the last two games. Kalamazoo is 3-0-0-0 when leading after two periods. After dropping three straight, the K-Wings are on a two-game winning streak. Florian Iberer has recorded four points in his last two games. The defenseman also scored two goals in Sunday’s win, including the overtime game-winner. Nick Bootland is tied with Robin Bouchard for the league lead in power-play goals with three.

Muskegon Fury - (0-1-1-0) – The Fury completed their three game road trip with a 1-1-1-0 record, earning three of possible six points available. The Fury have scored at least one power play goal in each of their first five games thus far this season. The Fury continued as the league’s premiere penalty killing cast, operating at 91.3% (21 of 23), surrendering only two power play goals so far this young sesason. Including the pre-season, goaltender Issac Reichmuth has made six straight starts in the Fury goal. Defenseman Russ Moyer earned his first-ever professional point Saturday night in Fort Wayne through an assist on a Robin Bouchard game-tying power play goal.

Port Huron Icehawks - (1-2-0-0) – Friday’s victory over the Komets took the Icehawks to a four game win streak and a 3-0 record on home ice. The win streak was broken Saturday when the Icehawks were defeated by the K-Wings 6-3. The loss was Port Huron ’s first loss at home this season. Port Huron leads the league for goals scored (22) and shots on goal (291). Icehawks RW Jamie Carroll continues to lead Port Huron and the league for goals scored, after tallying three goals over the weekend. The IHL Rookie of the Month for October now has six goals on the season. He is among the league leaders for points with seven, is second in the league for shots on goal with 37, and second in the league in the plus/minus category at +6.

K-Wings ink veteran defenseman Iberer

2007-11-01T14:39:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings signed defenseman Florian Iberer yesterday.

A native of Graz, Austria, Iberer is entering his third season of pro hockey in North America and eighth overall. Staring his career in the Austrian Elite League, Iberer was a member of his hometown Graz EC for four seasons.

“We are always in search of ways to improve our team and feel that signing Flo pushes us in the right direction,” said Kalamazoo GM Wade Welsh. “With a young core of defenseman, it was essential to add an experienced defenseman.”

At six-foot and 198 pounds, Iberer brings size to the K-Wings blue line. Iberer’s most prolific season as a professional was the 2005-06 season, when he racked up a combined 33 points (three goals, 30 assists) and 77 minutes in penalties in the United Hockey League with the Elmira Jackals and Quad City Mallards.

The signing of Iberer reunites him with Glenn Detulleo and Brian Curran. Iberer and Detulleo were teammates on the 2005-06 Mallards that were coached by Curran.

Thursday in Grand Rapids - Steve Yzerman

2007-10-30T16:58:00.000-07:00

Fury and Icehawks swing 1-for-1 deal

2007-10-30T16:02:00.000-07:00

The Muskegon Fury completed a straight one-for-one trade with the Port Huron Icehawks today.

Muskegon has obtained top-scoring center Mark Cadotte, a former Plymouth Whaler in juniors, in exchange for the playing rights to center Mark Nebus, a 2007 Wayne State grad.

“Bringing Mark here fills an area that we have been looking to upgrade," Fury head coach Bruce Ramsay said. "He is a true, tested veteran who has the skills and ability to play all three forward positions. Mark has had a tremendous pro career and with his presence in our lineup, he will give us speed, energy and much-valued veteran leadership. Last season, he was a key player on a team that did not sometimes score a lot.

"With the Fury and playing with the right players, he has the capability of delivering some excellent numbers.”

Around the IHL - Oct. 29, 2007

2007-10-29T18:13:00.000-07:00

IHL PRESS RELEASE--

Port Huron was the only undefeated team during this week’s IHL action, giving the Icehawks a league-leading six points (3-2-0-0). With a win over Muskegon on Friday and two huge come-from-behind victories over Flint on Saturday and Bloomington on Sunday, the Icehawks are currently riding a 3-game winning streak. Port Huron is unbeatable on home ice so far this season (2-0-0-0), along with Bloomington (1-0-0-0) and Fort Wayne (2-0-0-0).

Muskegon’s special teams have come out strong early this season. With a 25% power play record (4 for 16) and 100% penalty killing record (15 of 15), the Fury are ranked number one for both categories in the International Hockey League. Also hot on the power play, Flint ’s Josef Fojtik leads the league with two power play goals in his four games played, helping improve the Generals to second place on the power play with a 23.1% record (3 for 13).

Bloomington forwards Don Parsons and Jason Ralph has both recorded points in all four games played by the PrairieThunder. Parsons is ranked first in the league in scoring and assists (1g, 6a, 7pts.). Ralph is tied for second (2g, 4a) with Muskegon ’s Mike Watt (1g, 5a).

AROUND THE “I”

Flint Generals - (1-0-0-1) – Generals rookie forward Josef Fojtik is already making his name felt with two power play goals in four games. The Generals are second in the IHL on the power play with three power play goals in 13 chances. The Generals have scored the first goal in four straight games and currently support a record of 2-1-0-1. Jordan Fox has scored first in two of the four games. Flint is currently first in the IHL in goals for averaging just over three per game, while they are third in the IHL in shots for averaging just over 34 per game. The Generals have surrendered eight goals in the third period this season which is the most of any team in the IHL.

Kalamazoo Wings - (0-2-0-0) – K-Wings opened up their home schedule in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 4,975 last Saturday during the 4th Annual Orange Ice Game. Kalamazoo 's 4-1 loss in the home opener, dropping their record on orange ice to 1-3-0-0, with all three loses coming against Muskegon . Matt Elich played in his 400th career game last Friday in Flint . Goaltender Jeremy Symington is one-game shy of 200 in his career. Kalamazoo 's best scoring periods are the first and third, posting three goals in each stanza. On the season, the K-Wings have scored seven goals. Nick Bootland ranks third in the league with 20 shots, but ranks first on shots per game average at 6.67. After playing just three games in the first nine days of the season, the K-Wings will play three-games in three days starting this Friday versus Flint .

Muskegon Fury - (1-1-0-0) – After launching the IHL season with a rare two consecutive losses, both on home ice, the Fury became the last team in the league to record their initial victory of the season Saturday night at Kalamazoo , 4-1. Muskegon ’s magic in Kalamazoo seems to be continuing as they are now 23-5-4 in their last 32 decisions at Wings Stadium. The Fury specialty teams are flourishing early in the new season; both the power play (4-16; 25%) and the penalty-killing (15-15; 100%) are ranked #1 in the IHL. Left Wing Mike Watt and Defenseman Philippe Plante are both on 3-game season opening point streak (three each). Robin Bouchard (646) is just 18-games away from tying Scott Feasby (664) for most games played in Fury franchise history.

Port Huron Icehawks - (3-0-0-0) – Port Huron forced the league’s first overtime and first shootout Saturday versus Flint . Port Huron landed two goals in the shootout, while Flint had zero. Brian Felsner and Jamie Carroll both had shootout goals for the Icehawks. Icehawks rookie Jamie Carroll is among the league leaders in several categories. He leads the league for shots on goal with 27 and is tied for first in the plus/minus category at plus-5. Ron Vogel posted two wins in net for Port Huron , and rookie goalie Marty Magers recorded his first win of the season Sunday in his second start in goal. Port Huron now leads the league in third period scoring after third period comebacks in back to back home games last weekend.

K-Wings auction Orange Ice jerseys

2007-10-29T18:11:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced the organization raised and donated $14,150 from the 4th Annual Orange Ice jersey auction, which occurred last Saturday at Wings Stadium.

Fans were clamoring for all of the K-Wings special Halloween jerseys. However, at the end of the night, the three highest bids were for the jerseys worn by forwards Justin Cross, Lucas Drake and Tyler Willis. Cross’ jersey received the high bid of $1,250, while Drake and Willis’ each went for $1,000.

“Our fans continue to amaze us (K-Wings) with their generosity,” said Wings GM Wade Welsh. “With close to 5,000 fans at Wings Stadium to see both the K-Wings and our alumni, Saturday was a very special night and the jersey action was a perfect way to cap off the evening.”

Charities selected for the Orange Ice jersey auction were American Red Cross, Great Lakes Burn Camp, Ronald McDonald House and SPCA of Southwest Michigan.

Wings sign Draper to three-year extension

2007-10-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

The Detroit Red Wings locked up one of their key veterans for the long term, signing forward Kris Draper to a three-year contract extension last Thursday.

The deal will pay him $1.85 million next season, $1.65 million in 2009-10, and $1.25 million in the 2010-11 campaign.

Draper, one of the league's top defensive forwards, has 137 goals and 302 points in 895 career NHL games.

He played parts of three seasons with the Winnipeg Jets and was traded to the Red Wings in 1993 for one dollar. He has helped lead Detroit to three Stanley Cups in his 13 seasons with the club and also won the Selke Trophy as the NHL's best defensive forward in 2004.

Draper, who earns $2.128 million this season, scored five goals in his first 10 games of the 2007-08 campaign.

The 36-year-old was set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

Kalamazoo announces pooch promotion

2007-10-22T17:45:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings have announced a new partnership for its “Hockey Pup of the Game” promotion.

Over the past three seasons, the K-Wings have helped find a home for over 120 dogs in southwest Michigan. For the second straight season, the K-Wings will be calling on the SPCA of Southwest Michigan to lend a hand and continue the miraculous efforts of eliminating pet homelessness. Also helping with the efforts will be PetsMart.

The SPCA of Southwest Michigan will bring one lucky dog to each of the Kalamazoo home games to participate in the K-Wings promotion. The dog gets to meet and interact with the fans and find a new family.

Founded in early 2002, the SPCA of Southwest Michigan is a not-for-profit animal welfare community that is bringing leadership and results to the problem of pet homelessness in the area. Its mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and find loving homes for the forgotten pets in southwest Michigan pounds by saving adoptable pets and making families complete. For more information about the SPCA, log onto www.spcaswmich.org.

The title sponsor of the K-Wings “Hockey Pup of the Game” promotion will be PetsMart. Located at 5200 W Main St in Kalamazoo, PetsMart is one of the nation’s largest pet stores and is a huge supporter of the SPCA of Southwest Michigan.

IHL NOTEBOOK - Michigan teams

2007-10-22T17:36:00.000-07:00

The International Hockey League kicked off the 2007-08 campaign on Friday when the Port Huron Icehawks flew into Flint for the first game of the season against the Generals. The crowd of 2,551 was booming throughout the entire game as the Generals defeated the Icehawks, 4-1.

All six member clubs hit the ice on Saturday, when the remaining four teams began their journey. Kalamazoo traveled to Muskegon to renew the rivalry between the Fury and the K-Wings. During the heated contest, the K-Wings cooled off the Fury with a 3-1 victory. Fort Wayne hosted the Icehawks Saturday as the Komets celebrated the return of the IHL in front of a sellout crowd of 10,153. Fort Wayne goaltender Kevin Reiter shut down the Icehawks offense, turning away all 30 shots he faced to earn the IHL’s first shutout of the season. Flint ’s second home game of the weekend was Saturday when the Bloomington PrairieThunder visited the Generals. Flint scored the lone goal in the opening period, but the second and third was all Bloomington as the PrairieThunder edged off the Generals for the 5-1 victory.

Flint Generals - (1-1-0-0) – Opening night was a huge success for the Flint Generals as more than 2,500 fans cheered loudly for the team all night long. Four different goal scorers paced the Generals past the Port Huron Ice Hawks 4-1 as the 2007-2008 IHL season officially got underway. Greg Bullock, Mike Alexiou and goaltender Chad Alban all had great games on Friday for the Generals. Bullock had a goal and two assists, while Alexiou scored his first professional goal. Alban turned aside 33 shots in the win over Port Huron. The Generals tallied first goals in both games over the weekend but ended up going 1-1 when doing so. Flint was 8-for-9 penalty killing over the weekend with a lone goal surrendered on Saturday night.

Kalamazoo Wings - (1-0-0-0) – As a franchise, the K-Wings have won its last five opening night games. K-Wings "Cash Money" line (Mike Manley, Lucas Drake, Justin Cross) cashed in for two of the K-Wings three goals on Saturday. Each member of the line had two points. Jeremy Symington had 26 saves in the victory, losing the shutout with just 24 seconds left in the game. Symington is tied for second in the IHL with a 1.00 GAA. Rookie Mike Bickley scored on his lone shot on Saturday, which proved to be the game-winning goal. Bickley led the K-Wings in preseason scoring with seven points. Kalamazoo opens up its home schedule on Orange Ice this Saturday. With its win over Muskegon last Saturday, the K-Wings are 102-106-71 versus IHL teams from Muskegon (101-106-71 versus the Mohawks/Lumberjacks, 1-0-0-1 versus the Fury). K-Wings lead the league in major penalties with five.

Muskegon Fury - (0-1-0-0) – On Saturday night, the Fury launched the 48th consecutive season of pro hockey in Muskegon, ranking the city fourth all-time for consecutive years of minor pro hockey longevity. It is the 16th consecutive year of Muskegon hockey under the Fury banner. Rookie Adam Segerie averted the Fury being shutout on opening night when he notched a power-play goal with only 24 seconds remaining in the third period. After being the lone undefeated team in the IHL pre-season at 2 (2-0-0-0), the Fury sustained their initial setback of the season on opening night against Kalamazoo at their home of Walker Arena. Previously, Muskegon operated IHL teams under the monikers of the Zephyrs (1960-65), the Mohawks (1965-1984), the Lumberjacks (1984-1992) and now the present-day Fury.

Port Huron Icehawks - (0-2-0-0) – The Icehawks kicked off their inaugural season with two road games; Friday, October 19 at Flint and Saturday, October 20 at Fort Wayne. They face another road contest this Friday at Muskegon before returning home for back-to-back games Saturday and Sunday with Flint and Bloomington. Chris Bogas will face several of his former teammates on the ice Sunday, when the Icehawks take on Bloomington at home. Four members of the Icehawks roster were not active last weekend for the first two games of the season. All four are expected to return this weekend. Rookie goalie Marty Magers made his first start in goal for Port Huron Saturday at Fort Wayne, tallying 40 saves, with a save percentage of .909.

Kalamazoo adds Cross, Ianetta

2007-10-21T10:26:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced the signing of forward Justin Cross and defenseman Matt Iannetta yesterday.

After a stellar rookie season, which earned him a spot in the 2007 UHL All-Star Classic, Cross returns to Kalamazoo for second season. While getting acclimated to the pro game, the native of Camarillo, California was dazzling in racking up 55 points (26 goals, 29 assists) in 72 games.

“He will compliment an already deep crop of forwards,” said Kalamazoo GM Wade Welsh. “Justin is a double threat on the ice. He can score goals, but also has a great passing ability to set up his teammates.”

Before turning pro, Cross spent four years at Niagara University, where as a member of the Purple Eagles, he recorded 92 points (36 goals, 56 assists) in 138 games.

After lacing up the skates in Italy a year ago, Iannetta returns to North America to compete in his second season as pro.

A hard-working defenseman, Iannetta played four years of collegiate hockey at the University of Waterloo. During his senior season, Iannetta led the Warriors in plus/minus (+10). The native of Woodbridge, Ontario also earned the Coaches Award, which is given to the player that is dedicated, most committed and showing the most leadership to the hockey program.

“After witnessing the preseason, we wanted to add a defenseman that has size and could help us offensively,” said Welsh. “We have heard good things about him and believe he could be the player that will fill that void.”

To make room of the roster the K-Wings waived forward Mike Carter and placed forward Tyler Willis on the 7-day injured reserve list.

Bootland named Kalamazoo's captain

2007-10-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announce their captains for the upcoming 2007-08 season, which begins Saturday in Muskegon.

Wearing the letters on this year’s team will be forwards Nick Bootland, Kory Karlander and defenseman Ed Campbell.

“With the leadership we have in our locker room, there were a lot of individuals we could have given the letters to, but in the end we believe the selected players best exemplify what it takes to be a K-Wing,” said Wings GM Wade Welsh. “While we have three capable players wearing letters, we still expect everyone on our team to lead by example.”

For the third straight year, the K-Wings have selected Bootland as its captain. Joining elite company, Bootland is just the fourth K-Wing (Ron Wilson, Scott Robinson and Derrick Smith) ever to wear the 'C' in three straight seasons.

Karlander and Campbell will be assistant captains will be Karlander and Campbell. This season will be Karlander’s third as assistant captain, while Campbell is receiving the honor in his first season with the K-Wings.

Griffins promote "Pink at the Rink" cause

2007-10-16T15:55:00.000-07:00

The Grand Rapids Griffins have teamed up with Susan G. Komen for the Cure Grand Rapids to bring you "Pink at the Rink," a celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Griffins fans along with friends of Komen for the Cure Grand Rapids have the opportunity of purchasing specially priced tickets to the Oct. 28 game through an exclusive web offer. With each ticket purchased online using the instructions below, the Griffins will donate $5 to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Grand Rapids.

In addition to discounted tickets, fans will enjoy several other special features:

-- Griffins players will show their support by displaying pink ribbons on their helmets
-- Special "Pink at the Rink" hockey stick auction to benefit Komen for the Cure
-- Breast cancer educational messages on the video board throughout the game
-- Intermission "Shoot for the Cure," honoring local breast cancer survivors
-- Sale of pink merchandise with proceeds benefiting Komen for the Cure
-- Postgame skate and Griffins player autograph session

Purchasing tickets is as easy as 1...2...3:

1. Log onto www.griffinshockey.com/themenights

2. Enter username: grkomen

3. Enter password: griffins0708

Tickets are $10 for upper bowl and $15 for lower bowl.

K-Zoo goalie Quesada gets AHL call-up

2007-10-10T14:04:00.000-07:00

Kalamazoo Wings goaltender Tony Quesada has been called up to the Quad City Flames of the American Hockey League.

Quesada’s call-up is his second trip to the AHL. Last season, Quesada spent his first-year of professional hockey in Texas , mainly with the Houston Aeros.

“We believe it’s our job to do our due diligence in helping our players reach their goals and this is a great opportunity for him to get a step closer to the NHL,” said Wings GM Wade Welsh. “In the off-season we made the decision to bring in three quality goaltenders that had the passion and ability to make it to the next level. This call-up is great not only for him, but our league.”

Making the most of his time in his previous stint in the AHL, Quesada earned his lone AHL win with a dazzling 41-save performance to preserve a 1-0 shutout for Houston (top affiliate of the Minnesota Wild) on April 7 against Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights, who are now the Quad City Flames.

Generals add offense with Cirone signing

2007-10-06T09:42:00.000-07:00

More offensive firepower was added to the Flint Generals Saturday with the singing of veteran center Jason Cirone.

Cirone, a former third-round draft pick of the Winnipeg Jets at the 1989 NHL Entry Draft, spent last season with the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees of the Central Hockey League where in 59 games, he notched 28 goals and added 35 assists for 63 points and 84 penalty minutes.

Cirone, a native of Toronto, spent five seasons in Italy playing for Asiago HC (2001-2002 to 2005-2006) and had 84 goals and 92 assists for 176 points and 384 penalty minutes in 166 games.

“Jason is a proven player at this level,” said Flint director of hockey operations Ron Sanko. “Once you follow him with (Greg) Bullock, I believe we have the best 1-2 punch in the league at center -- two veteran guys that can help Jordan Fox along.”

The 5-foot-10, 205-pound left-shooting centerman, played one year (2000-2001) with the Frankfurt Lions in Germany where he had 18 goals and 17 assists for 35 points and 138 penalty minutes.

Cirone is no stranger to the IHL having played seven seasons with four different teams- Cincinnati Cyclones, Long Beach Ice Dogs, Rochester Americans and the Kansas City Blades. In 442 career games, Cirone tallied 139 goals, 148 assists for 287 points and 830 penalty minutes.

Cirone also spent time in the ECHL, WCHL, American Hockey League and played three National Hockey League games for the Winnipeg Jets.

Cirone had a solid career in the Ontario Hockey League where he played four seasons with the former Cornwall Royals and part of a year with the Windsor Spitfires. During his junior career, he played in 212 games and had 130 goals and 150 assists for 280 points and 261 penalty minutes.

Generals sign Greg Bullock

2007-10-05T14:28:00.000-07:00

The Flint Generals added some veteran leadership on Thursday with the signing of forward Greg Bullock.

Bullock, a native of Cambridge, Ontario, was acquired from the Port Huron Icehawks last week in exchange for forward Jeff Zehr. In 74 games with Port Huron last season, Bullock had 18 goals and 51 assists for 69 points and 70 penalty minutes. He also was a key player during the postseason where he had four assists in four games.

"I remember him as being a guy who was hard to play against," said Generals head coach Kevin Kerr. "Every time he was on the ice, you noticed him. That's the kind of player we want on our team. He allows us to have more strength up the middle. He's adds great stability to the middle up front.”

Bullock’s name and presence on the ice will be memorable to Generals’ fans. The 5-foot-11, 180-pounder played for the Motor City Mechanics of the UHL where he posted 18 goals and added 40 assists for 58 points and 81 penalty minutes in 59 games in 2005-06

Prior to his time in Michigan, Bullock spent one season in the Central Hockey League with the Corpus Christi Rays where he had 66 points and 24 penalty minutes (17 goals and 49 assists). Bullock has also played in Europe in Germany, Italy as well as in the British Super League.

Bullock has also spent time in the IHL with the former San Francisco Spiders, Grand-Rapids Griffins, Kansas City Blades and the Michigan K-Wings. In 54 career games, Bullock picked up 30 goals and 59 assists and 89 points and 144 penalty minutes.

Bullock’s career has also seen him spend time in the American Hockey League where he had 106 points in 89 games for the St. John’s Maple Leafs, and the Lowell Lock Monsters. He also played one season in the ECHL and another in the former WCHL.

Flint re-signs defensemen Ondrej and Fisher

2007-10-03T17:34:00.000-07:00

Two of the Flint Generals' steady defensemen from a year ago will be back with the hockey club for another season.

The Generals announced on Wednesday the signing of Martin Ondrej and Shaun Fisher.

Ondrej was chosen as the Generals’ top defenseman last year and put some solid rookie numbers. He also appeared in all 76 games and picked up five goals and 22 assists for 27 points and 162 penalty minutes.

“We are thrilled to have Martin back with us here in Flint,” said Flint head coach Kevin Kerr. “He was our best defenseman last year and brings character and great work ethic to our team. He hits like a truck and will fit well into the new rules of the IHL.”

Fisher played in 71 of the club’s 76 games last season and notched five goals and added 28 assists for 33 points and 92 penalty minutes.

“We are very excited to have Shaun back with us this season,” said Kerr. “With the added support of players like Ryan Jorde, Brett Westgarth and Kris Mallette, Shaun will be able to focus and be the offensive threat.”

Much of Fisher’s career has been spent in the ECHL where he has played with several different clubs over a span of four seasons. In 2005-2006, the Detroit native played with the Augusta Lynx, Phoenix Roadrunners and the Bakersfield Condors. In 56 games, he had four goals and 20 assists for 24 points and 58 penalty minutes.

Fisher spent the 2004-2005 campaign with the rival Kalamazoo Wings where he had 11 goals and 22 assists for 33 point and 70 penalty minutes in 65 games.

Fisher’s first three seasons of his professional career were spent in the ECHL with the Florida Everblades, Greenville Grrrowl, Trenton Titans, Texas Wildcatters and the Roanoke Express. In 169 games Fisher had 14 goals and 49 assists for 63 points and 143 penalty minutes.

K-Wings add five to roster, now at 20

2007-10-02T17:55:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced the signings of forwards Mike Carter and Tim Morrison, along with defensemen Michael Barrett, Chris Kolvalcik and Paul Lynch today.

Carter comes to Kalamazoo after spending three seasons in the Central Hockey League. A skilled forward, Carter has recorded 91 points (29 goals, 62 assists) in his pro career. A standout performer at Mercyhurst College, the native of Cambridge , Ontario led the Lakers in scoring with 37 points (11 goals, 26 assists) in 36 games during his senior campaign.

Morrison is a K-Wing looking to make an impact in K-Wings training camp. At 6-foot-4 and 250 pounds, Morrison is a hard-hitting forward entering his first-season of pro hockey. As a collegiate, the native of Londonderry, New Hampshire played two seasons at Quinnipiac University.

At 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds, Barrett is a physical defenseman that is ready to begin his pro career. Last season, Barrett finished off his collegiate career at the University of Ottawa . He also brings a wealth of Junior A hockey experience, including one season under hockey icon Don Cherry in Mississauga of the Ontario Hockey League.

A double threat, Kolvalcik can play forward and at defense. The native of Detroit is entering his fourth season as a pro. In three previous seasons, Kolvalcik has chimed in with 71 points (28 goals, 43 assists) and amassed 551 minutes in penalties in the Southern Professional Hockey League.

After a two-year hiatus, Lynch is ready to hit the ice and show why he was a National Hockey League prospect. A 2001 draft pick of the Tampa Bay Lightning (fifth round, 138 overall), Lynch last played in the 2004-05 season in the ECHL.

The addition of Carter, Morrison, Barrett, Kolvalcik and Lynch gives the K-Wings 20 players signed for the upcoming 2007-08 season.

Sopel leaves Wings, signs with Hawks

2007-09-29T07:42:00.000-07:00

TSN.ca Staff

Brent Sopel left the camp of the Detroit Red Wings and signed a contract with the Chicago Blackhawks Friday.

Sopel signed a one-year contract with the Blackhawks, believed to be worth $1.5 million.

Sopel travelled with the Red Wings to Toronto on Friday afternoon, and was scheduled to play against the Maple Leafs in a pre-season game last night, but informed the team shortly before the game that he was in serious contract talks with another club.

He had been in Detroit's training camp on a tryout basis, but was offered a contract by the Red Wings shortly before signing with Chicago.

Generals and Icehawks swap forwards

2007-09-28T18:22:00.000-07:00

The Flint Generals announced today that they have completed a trade with the Port Huron Icehawks, sending forward Jeff Zehr to the Icehawks in exchange for veteran forward Greg Bullock.

The 28-year-old Zehr, formerly a second-round pick of the New York Islanders in 1997, collected 30 goals and added 35 assists for 65 points and 93 penalty minutes in 64 games for the Generals last season. Bullock had a strong season in Port Huron with 18 goals and 51 assists for 69 points and 70 penalty minutes in 74 games.

“I think it is a great trade for both teams,” said Generals head coach Kevin Kerr. “Port Huron has something they have been wanting, which is a a scoring forward, and we wanted a solid one or two centerman and it’s great for both teams.

“Greg Bullock will add veteran leadership to our team and has played great throughout his career. He can play in all situations from power play to four on four.”

Bullock, a 34-year-old native of Cambridge, Ontario, has put up some solid numbers whereever he has played. Generals’ fans will remember the 5-foot-11, 180-pounder when he played for the Motor City Mechanics of the UHL. He posted 18 goals and added 40 assists for 58 points and 81 penalty minutes in 59 games during that 2005-2006 season.

Bullock has also spent time in the IHL with the former San Francisco Spiders, Grand Rapids Griffins, Kansas City Blades and the Michigan K-Wings. In 54 career games, Bullock has picked up 30 goals and 59 assists and 89 points and 144 penalty minutes.

Fury secures radio deal with WWKR-FM 94.1

2007-09-26T18:25:00.000-07:00

Today, the Muskegon Fury and Synergy Broadcast Group announced the completion of a three-year contract deal that will make West Michigan’s WWKR-FM 94.1 the new radio flagship home for all of the Fury’s live play-by-play broadcasts.

Moreover, also included in the new contractual agreement, the very popular daily “Fury Daily Update” will be heard on WWKR-FM 94.1 Monday through Friday at 5:20 pm while the ever-popular “Fury Hotline Radio Show” will remain on West Michigan's 94 K-ROCK as the latter program commences for an unprecedented 13th consecutive year and second straight year on WWKR-FM 94.1.

For the next three seasons, all games played by the Fury, pre-season, regular season and playoff games, home and away, in their entirety, will be aired live with all of the play-by-play action. As in past years, all game broadcasts will consist of a one-half hour pre-game show as well as the “Fury Star of the Game Show,” which will follow all home game originations and the Fury post-game show, the latter program after all Fury games.

Muskegon adds four more skaters

2007-09-25T19:09:00.000-07:00

The Muskegon Fury now have 27 players under contract for this upcoming season after signing three defensemen and a forward today.

Defensemen Jamie Vanderveeken, Jeff Maronese and Greg Huszarik and forward Bradley Burton signed on the dotted line and have been invited to training camp.

Generals get WFNT radio agreement

2007-09-20T19:05:00.000-07:00

The Flint Generals announced Wednesday that they have signed an agreement with Regent Broadcasting Unforgettable 1470 WFNT for the 2007-2008 season.

WFNT will be the broadcast partner for the Generals and for the first time in four years will air all home and away games as well as its weekly Monday radio show. Generals’ Director of Media Relations and Broadcasting Denis J. Puska will call all the action in his first year as voice of the hockey team. All broadcasts begin with the Generals Pre-Game Report, 20 minutes before the puck is dropped.

"WFNT is very excited to partner with The Perani Group as the Flint Generals return to the IHL,” said Sales Manager and Program Director for WFNT-WLSP, Dan Foley. “We feel with the new owners, the new league and the new players, there’s a whole new attitude this year.”

This year The Generals Radio Show will be moved back to Monday nights at 6pm and will take place live from The Raincheck Lounge. Fans will be able to drop by and listen to the show and ask questions. The Raincheck Lounge will also be offering fans great food specials on Monday nights during the radio show.

“We are thrilled to be partnered with Regent Broadcasting for our games,” said Puska. “It’s exciting that we are going to be able to air all home and away broadcasts this season.”

Another first for the Generals will see that all home and away broadcasts as well as the radio show will all be aired live on the internet at http://www.flintgenerals.com/. There will be more interaction for fans on Flint Generals radio broadcasts this season. Fans will be able to email Puska directly at radio@flintgenerals.com with their questions and comments and have them answered live on the air.

Fans will once again be able to view live streaming video of all Generals games through the partnership with the B2 Networks.

The Flint Generals also announced that they will broadcast the exhibition game in Port Huron against the rival Icehawks on Saturday, October 13, beginning at 7:10 pm with the pre-game show and the puck drop follows at 7:30 pm.

The Generals first regular season broadcast is set for Friday, October 19 when they host Port Huron at 7:30 pm. There will be a special edition of The Generals Pre-Game Report airing at 7 pm as fans get a special look at a new era in hockey.

Fury roster now up to 23 strong

2007-09-19T19:21:00.000-07:00

Left wings Rafal Martynowski and Justin Keller and right wing Andy Wiesner signed with the Muskegon Fury today.

Muskegon head coach Bruce Ramsay commented on all three signings:

On Martynowski: “We think that Rafal has the potential to be a major contributor to our offensive way of thinking this season. He scored 20 goals as a rookie pro following an excellent, high-scoring major Junior A career in the OHL. He was a high draft pick in the UHL (first round by the Flint Generals in 2005) and our homework shows that he possesses the talent and ability to produce some significant numbers for us. He appears to be quite committed to having an outstanding season as he has been skating and working out throughout the summer months and plans on coming to camp in a couple of weeks in top playing condition. We are looking forward to watching him develop for our club.”

On Keller: “Justin is coming off two outstanding years in the SPHL where he developed into one of the most feared, best goal scorers in the league. In fact, last season, he was on pace to score nearly 60 goals when his team (Florida Seals) folded leaving him in a lurch. He has been a premiere goal producer at every level in which he has played. He has good size, speed and can really shoot the puck. We have lots of positive notes next to his name and we are looking forward to his arrival here with us.”

On Wiesner: “Andy had an exceptional four-year college career and comes highly-endorsed by his Wisconsin-Stout coach. He is generally considered one of the best players and best pro prospects to ever play at a school which has produced some good, solid, pro personnel. In addition, Andy brings many other very important attributes to our team. He has not only proven to be a strong scorer, but also, as team captain, he has demonstrated outstanding leadership skills. What we also really like about him is that he is very versatile, having played all three forward positions as well as defense in college.”

A total of 23 players are now signed with Muskegon for this fall.

Kalamazoo signs Elich and ex-Wildcat

2007-09-19T19:12:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced the signings of forward Matt Elich and defenseman John Miller today.

Selected by Tampa Bay Lightning in the third round (61st overall) of the 1997 NHL Entry Draft, Elich began his professional career with the Lightning's former IHL affiliate, the Detroit Vipers. Impressing his parent club in his rookie year, Elich was called up to Tampa Bay, seeing action in eight games.

In his nine-year career, Elich has made his presence felt, recording 217 points in 398 career games.

“If he (Elich) plays to his ability, we will have one of the dynamic offenses in the IHL,” said Kalamazoo GM Wade Welsh. “Adding Matt to the already established forwards we have signed gives us incredible depth and experience up front.”

A seasoned veteran, the 2007-08 campaign will be the ninth in Elich’s career. Spending last season overseas in Europe, Elich last played in North America during the 2005-06 season, when he split the year in the United Hockey League with both the Flint Generals and Roanoke Valley Vipers, averaging nearly a point a night.

Elich, a native of Grosse Pointe, played four seasons of Junior A hockey in the Ontario Hockey League, including 2 1/2 years with the Windsor Spitfires.

A rookie defenseman, Miller initiated himself to professional hockey by playing six games with the Lubbock Cotton Kings of the Central Hockey League and 12 games in the Division 2 League in Sweden with Boro/Vetanda. Miller adapted to life in Sweden racking up 11 points (six goals, five assists) in just 12 games.

“He has the potential to elevate his game and become a solid defenseman in our league,” said Welsh. “With limited opportunity last year, he proved he will make the most of his time on the ice.”

Before turning pro, Miller was a four-year standout at Northern Michigan University, preceded by a season of Junior A hockey in the United States Hockey League with the Sioux City Musketeers.

The addition of Elich and Miller gives the K-Wings 15 players signed for the upcoming 2007-08 season.

Wings get radio deal with WLKM 95.9 FM

2007-09-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced today that WLKM (95.9 FM) will be the exclusive radio home for K-Wings hockey.

Since the Wings re-established their radio network back in 2002, fans have enjoyed listening to K-Wings’ games on WLKM. With their new agreement, the K-Wings and their exclusive radio home, based in Three Rivers, can continue to have games reach a coverage area that spans over 11 Southwest Michigan counties.

Also with the new agreement, WLKM gains the rights to be the on-air home for the Kalamazoo Wings Weekly Coaches Show, “K-Wings Live." This season the show will originate on Monday’s from 7-8 p.m. from the newly-renovated Old Burdick’s Bar and Grill, located inside the Holiday Inn West off of South 11th Street. The season debut of “K-Wings Live” will be Monday, October 8.

The K-Wings have also reached an agreement with the B2 Networks to provide internet audio streaming of all games this season. Fans will be able to listen to the audio streaming for FREE by clicking on the K-Wings website.

“We are excited to continue our relationship with WLKM. Their station has a strong signal that can reach 11 counties, giving us the ability to promote ourselves throughout Southwest Michigan ,” said Wings GM Wade Welsh. “With the unlimited number of audio listeners the B2 Network has, our fans will be able to log on to every K-Wings audio broadcast without the worries of not being able to listen to our games, a problem we had with our previous audio streaming provider.”

Backstop Reichmuth signs with Muskegon

2007-09-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

Goaltender Isaac Reichmuth has signed with the Muskegon Fury.

Reichmuth played his college hockey at Minnesota-Duluth and last season played in the ECHL with the Alaska Aces, going 13-5-4 with a 2.48 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage. His GAA ranked fifth best in the ECHL.

“We are enthused with the acquisition of Isaac," Fury head coach Bruce Ramsay said. "He has been an outstanding four-year starting goaltender at the Division I level for a nationally-recognized, highly-regarded university which also made it to the Frozen Four during his career there. He continued his growth as a solid goaltender in his rookie season last year in the ECHL with Alaska.

"Isaac also brings a good pedigree to us. He is a solid goaltender looking to further his pro career in Muskegon and, perhaps, some day, the AHL. He comes to us highly-recommended and ready to take-on the responsibility of being the number one goalie.”

Reichmuth’s father, Craig, was a standout in the 1970s and early 1980s in the NHL with the Detroit Red Wings' organization and later in the old World Hockey Association that competed with the NHL during that particular era. The elder Reichmuth also played in the CHL and the AHL during his pro playing career.

Muskegon now has 20 players under contract for this upcoming season.

Fury loads up with toughness and grit

2007-09-13T12:13:00.000-07:00

The Muskegon Fury yesterday signed defenseman Ryan Bartle and forwards David Segal, Kyle Sheen, Tyler Summerfield and Paul Yovanic.

Bartle, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound native of Winnipeg, has seen action most recently at the University of Minot following two seasons in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League with the Winnipeg South Blues. In the 2005-06 season, he amassed 303 penalty minutes in 61 games while collecting 18 points.

Segal was a teammate of Bartle in 2005-06 prior to going to the SPHL with the Knoxville Ice Bears. Last season in 50 games with Knoxville, he registered 273 PIMs and finished second in the SPHL in fighting majors with 25. The 5-foot-10, 170-pound Segal was a member of the MJHL champion Winnipeg South Blues squad of 2005-06 when he compiled 168 PIMs in just 26 games. For two consecutive seasons, in 2003-04 and 2004-05, playing for the Port Coquitlam Buckeroos, he led the PIJHL in PIMs with 285 and 368 respectively, winning the Team’s Fan Favorite Award as well as the Most Inspirational Player Award.

Sheen will be making a pro comeback of sorts after an inactive season of 2006-07 and one collegiate campaign at Mount Royal College of the ACAC in 2005-06. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Strathmore, Alberta native’s lone pro action came in the 2004-05 campaign when he plied his craft in the UHL with the Kalamazoo Wings, Richmond Riverdogs and Port Huron Beacons. In 72 games that season, he recorded 215 PIMs and 20 points. Sheen played juniors in the Western Hockey League with the Kootenay Ice and won a Memorial Cup championship in 2002.

Summerfield played in the Superior International Junior League with the Fort William North Stars. In 2006-07, the rugged 6-foot-2, 205-pound center tallied 330 PIMs in 40 games while averaging 1.38 points per game on 14 goals and 41 assists. The Toronto native's Fort William team captured the league championship with a mark of 41-6-3. Summerfield finished third on team with 14 playoff points and added 42 PIMs. He produced 130 PIMs in 15 games with the MJAHL Amherst Ramblers in 2005-06 and another 239 PIMs in 52 outings with the Portage Terriers of the MJHL in 2004-05.

Yovanic, who will turn 20 on October 2, hails from Highland. In the 2006-07 season, playing in the North American Hockey League with the Texas Tornado, the 6-foot-4, 220-pounder rang-up 153 PIMs in 40 games and added two goals and two assists.

“All five of our newest signees fit the mold of what we are looking for as far as our team toughness is concerned," Fury head coach Bruce Ramsay said. "We feel that each one of these players will provide some real positive things for the overall betterment of our hockey club. With each of these players, Bartle, Segal, Sheen, Summerfield and Yovanic in our lineup, it should make the Fury one of the more feared teams around our league.”

Muskegon now has 19 players under contract for the upcoming season.

K-Zoo adds three, two players retire

2007-09-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced the signings of goaltenders Tony Quesada and Jeremy Symington and forward Daniel Calitri this week.

After spending his first-year of professional hockey in Texas , mainly with the Houston Aeros (AHL) and Austin IceBats (CHL), Quesada is ready to call Kalamazoo home for the 2007-08 season.

“We (K-Wings) have had success finding young standout goaltenders and we believe Quesada will follow in that same mold,” said Kalamazoo GM Wade Welsh. “He has proven himself at the colligate level and given some time between the pipes he will have the same success as a pro.”

While Quesada did play a season of pro hockey last year, under IHL rules he still meets the minutes played criteria to be considered a rookie for the upcoming season.

Making the most of his time in the American Hockey League, Quesada earned his lone AHL win with a dazzling 41-save performance to preserve a 1-0 shutout for Houston on April 7 against the Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights.

Before turning pro, the native of South Freeport, Maine, was a four-year standout at Holy Cross College. During his time with the Crusaders, Quesada went 61-33-8 with a 2.50 goals-against average, including his senior campaign, where the netminder amassed a record of 22-6-2 and earned team co-MVP honors. Quesada holds five of the Crusaders’ six goaltending records – wins (61), save percentage (.915), GAA (2.50), games played (105) and minutes (6,034).

During the 2005-06 season, Quesada helped the Crusaders to one of the biggest upsets in NCAA Tournament history, making 35 saves in a 4-3 overtime win over Minnesota . The victory made NCAA history, proclaiming the Crusaders as the first No. 4 seed to ever upset the top seed. The victory was also the first-ever for Holy Cross in its NCAA Tournament history.

Selected by the New York Islanders in the eighth round (196th overall selection) of the 1997 NHL Entry Draft, Symington split last season in the CHL in both Rio Grande Valley and Youngstown.

A two-time CHL All-Star goaltender, Symington has been part of two goaltending tandems that have led their clubs to its league’s finals (Elmira 2002-03, Laredo 2004-05).

“He has had the knack of helping his team in the playoffs and we found it essential to have a goaltender with playoff experience,” said Welsh. “With three goaltenders in camp (Quesada, Symington and Brad Smith) we expect a spirited battle for the two jobs available.”

Symington is 82-73-23 with nine shutouts in his professional career. He played five games in the AHL with the Binghamton Senators during the 2002-03 season going 3-1-1 with a 2.32 goals-against average and a .922 save percentage.

His college hockey was played at St. Lawrence University, where he posted a career mark of 23-16-0.

Entering his inaugural season of professional hockey, Calitri played the past three years in the OPJHL, including the past two seasons with the Oakville Blades.

“He has a great motor and plays with a lot of heart and energy,” said Welsh. “Calitri also brings the ability to play the role of an agitator.”

In 97 games in the OPJHL, Calitri tallied 93 points (45 goals, 48 assists) and 274 minutes in penalties.

The K-Wings also announced the retirement of defensemen Jeff Brown and Adam Elzinga. While signing contracts earlier this off-season, both players notified the K-Wings that they are leaving the organization to pursue interests outside the sport of hockey.

“Jeff notified us during our coaching search that he had an opportunity outside of hockey that was too good to pass up for both him and his family,” said Welsh. “Adam told us before Labor Day that he was going to hang up the skates. We wish both Jeff and Adam the best in their future endeavors.”

The addition of Quesada, Symington and Calitri gives the K-Wings 13 players signed for the upcoming 2007-08 season.

Red Wings open prospects tourney Friday

2007-09-04T15:44:00.000-07:00

The Detroit Red Wings play host to eight National Hockey League teams beginning this Friday at their annual NHL Prospects Tournament in Traverse City. This year’s field promises to be one of the best for fans to see the future of the NHL as 17 first-round draft picks are scheduled to participate.

Red Wings fans can see Detroit’s 2005 first-round pick defenseman Jakub Kindl and the anticipated debut of forward Igor Grigorenko, who was Detroit’s second-round draft pick in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. Grigorenko’s career was slowed due a serious car accident and the Prosptects Tournament will serve as his first on-ice appearance in North America.

In addition to the Red Wings, teams from the Tampa Bay Lightning, New York Rangers, Atlanta Thrashers, Dallas Stars, Columbus Blue Jackets, Minnesota Wild and St. Louis Blues will compete in the tournament that runs Sept. 7 through Sept. 11.

Beyond the 17 first-rounders, 19 second-round draft picks and 20 third-round selections are on the eight rosters. All totaled, 119 players participating in this week’s camp were selected in the NHL Entry Draft.

The Prospects Tournament and Detroit’s main training camp will be held at the Centre ICE Arena in Traverse City. The veteran players take the ice on Sept. 14 in the first of five sessions at Centre ICE.

Tickets and schedules for training camp in Traverse City are available at www.centreice.org.

Flint signs high-scoring forward Dumba

2007-09-04T15:40:00.000-07:00

The Flint Generals loaded up more offensive talent to their club today with the signing of former Central Hockey League scorer Jared Dumba.

Dumba has spent the past seven-plus years in the CHL where he has averaged 20 goals or more in six of those seasons. The Dysart, Saskatchewan native began last season with the Oklahoma City Blazers where he had 15 goals and 17 assists for 32 points and 81 penalty minutes. At the trade deadline, he was sent to the Tulsa Oilers where he had 21 points and 59 penalty minutes in 27 games.

Dumba, a 6-foot, 205 pound left winger, spent four-plus seasons with the Blazers where he is in the top 12 of team’s all-time scoring and was also a member of their 2000-2001 championship team. He placed second in balloting for the 2000-2001 CHL Rookie of The Year. In 228 career games with the Oilers, Dumba had 107 goals and 116 assists for 223 points and 291 penalty minutes. Dumba spent almost two seasons with the former Indianapolis Ice of the CHL where in 107 games he notched 53 goals and added 60 assists for 113 points and 81 penalty minutes. He led the Ice to the playoffs in both seasons.

In 2004-2005, Dumba played for the Austin Ice Bats in the CHL where he tallied 26 goals and had 40 assists for 66 points and 38 penalty minutes in 49 games.

Dumba played four seasons of junior hockey with Saskatoon of the Western Hockey League and South Surrey of the British Columbia Junior League before turning pro in 2000. He exploded for 44 goals and 76 assists in his final year of juniors with the South Surrey Eagles, then joined the CHL with the Oklahoma City Blazers for the end of the regular season.

The Generals now have 15 players signed for the 2007-2008 season.

Michigan IHL teams add talent, new coach

2007-09-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

FLINT GENERALS
Forward Jonathan Duchesneau - click here
Goaltender Chad Alban, defenseman Nick Tuzzolino and forward Denis Fecteau - click here and here

KALAMAZOO WINGS
Hire head coach Brian Curran - click here

MUSKEGON FURY
Forwards Chris Mills and Justin Rohr - click here

PORT HURON ICEHAWKS
Forwards Garrett Larson, Patrick Power and Kyle Bozoian - click here

Muskegon signs pair of goaltenders

2007-08-23T18:03:00.000-07:00

The Muskegon Fury signed two goaltenders today out of the college ranks.

Ryan Grinnell and Kyle McNulty inked contracts to play in Muskegon this fall.

Grinnell just completed his collegiate eligibilty at the University of Toronto, while McNulty finished his four years at Clarkson University.

The 31-year-old Grinnell went 18-9-1 with a 2.20 goals-against average, a .921 save percentage and two shutouts last year.

“Ryan is a goaltender who has really come on later in his overall career," Fury head coach Bruce Ramsay said. "Last season, he experienced an absolutely outstanding year which was made even more impressive in that he accomplished it against some of the top-notch major junior goaltenders."

McNulty, 25, saw action in five games last year going 1-2-0 with a 3.85 GAA and .870 SV %. It was in his junior year of 2005-06, however, when he really thrived, compiling a 2.86 GAA in 15 outings alongside a 7-8-0 mark.

“Kyle is coming to us from a very strong Division I program where he was an integral part of their goaltending position for four solid years," said Ramsay. "He possesses an outstanding work ethic and we know he will come to camp well-prepared as he has been on the ice all summer long to get ready for his first pro season."

The Fury now has a dozen players signed for this upcoming season.

Grand Rapids brings back solid foursome

2007-08-22T21:24:00.000-07:00

Adding punch, scoring and depth to their lineup, the Grand Rapids Griffins have re-signed four players to contracts for the 2007-08 American Hockey League season: right wings Adam Keefe, Jamie Tardif and Mike Walsh and defenseman Cleve Kinley.

All four made their Grand Rapids debuts last season.

Keefe, 23, quickly became a fan favorite after being acquired in a Feb. 23 trade with the Manitoba Moose. He racked up 97 penalty minutes in just 16 games with Grand Rapids before his season came to a premature end due to a severe hand laceration suffered in a March 28 game against Milwaukee. A third-year pro who won a Memorial Cup with Kitchener in 2003, Keefe has totaled 12 points (5-7—12) and 346 PIM in 69 career AHL contests, along with 33 points (15-18—33) and 547 PIM in 105 pro games.

Tardif, 22, earned his way into Grand Rapids’ record book while logging his first pro hat trick on March 3 at Syracuse, as he became only the third player in Griffins history to score three goals in a single period. Calgary’s fourth selection in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, he registered nine goals and 15 points in 27 games with the Griffins, after totaling three other AHL contests with Manitoba and Iowa. Tardif began his rookie campaign with the ECHL’s Toledo Storm, compiling 30 points (10-20—30) in 34 games and scoring a goal during the league’s all-star game on Jan. 17. He subsequently signed with the Griffins on Jan. 26.

Kinley, 23, originally signed an amateur tryout with the Griffins on March 12, following his senior season as captain at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell. After tallying nine points (3-6—9) in 31 games for the River Hawks, he went scoreless in his pro debut with the Griffins on March 16 before logging two assists in three appearances with the UHL’s Muskegon Fury.

Walsh, 24, signed his first pro contract with the Griffins last summer and spent the majority of the 2006-07 season with their ECHL affiliate in Toledo. The native of Royal Oak tied for third on the Storm in scoring with 40 points (14-26—40) in 66 games and netted his first pro hat trick in Toledo’s 3-0 win over Columbia on Feb. 17. A Notre Dame alum who was the New York Rangers’ fourth choice in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, Walsh saw action in five games with the Griffins last season.

Icehawks sign three ex-Flags

2007-08-22T13:52:00.000-07:00

The Port Huron Icehawks announced today the signing of three players who were members of the Flags last season. All three players - Mark Cadotte, Mike Olynky and Joe Markusen - contributed to Port Huron's playoff push last season.

Cadotte (5-foot-8, 185 pounds), is a left-handed center who can also play left wing. He has been playing professional hockey since 1998. A former member of the Detroit and Plymouth Whalers, Cadotte played the 2005-2006 season in Italy and returned to the U.S. last year with the Flags, where he scored 19 goals and 21 assists in 66 games.

"Mark is a 20-plus goal scorer with great speed and penalty kill instincts," Icehawks coach-GM Stan Drulia said. "And after a year of playing back in North America, he is better adjusted for the style of game we play."

Olynyk (6-foot, 197-pounds) plays center and right wing. Last season for Port Huron, he scored 14 goals and had 10 assists.

"Olynyk was a huge surprise last year," Drulia said. "He's gritty and fights for every inch of ice. All his teammates love to play with him, and he does all the little things. He's never afraid of a game situation and almost seems to enjoy the nasty side of the game."

Markusen (6-foot, 185-pounds) is a defenseman who played four seasons at Michigan State. He played for the Kalamazoo Wings and Elmira Jackals last season before joining the Flags for the playoffs. His solid defense allows him to play in every situation and provides depth and backend support for the Icehawks.

"Joe is an extremely cool customer and simply does not get rattled," Drulia said. "He should get 20-plus points and 130 penalty minutes. He is very sound in his own end, has great poise with the puck and loves to step up and catch his opponents with their head down in open ice."

Cadotte, Olynky and Markusen add veteran leadership and invaluable game skills to the Icehawks.

Former Viper, Mechanic inks with Fury

2007-08-20T18:15:00.000-07:00

Kyle Kos, a former second-round pick of Tampa Bay, signed with the Muskegon Fury over the weekend.

Kos, who played minors in Michigan with the defunct Detroit Vipers of the old IHL and Motor City Mechanics of the UHL, will be entering his ninth pro season after inking a two-year deal with Muskegon.

“Having watched him for those two seasons with Motor City, we know that Kyle will be a major asset to the success of the Fury for this coming season," Muskegon head coach Bruce Ramsay said. "He is a big, solid defenseman who will bring plenty of attributes to our club. He is physical, moves the puck exceptionally well and has lots of great experience. With Kyle, Dave Van Drunen and Philippe Plante, we have a trio of stellar veteran defensemen who will not only shore up our back end but will also be vital to the development and maturing of our younger players.”

Last year, Kos, 28, tallied 21 points with the Rocky Mountain Rage of the Central Hockey League.

Icehawks and Red Wings team up

2007-08-19T15:26:00.000-07:00

The Port Huron Icehawks will now function as a AA affiliate to the Detroit Red Wings. The affiliation will aid the development of players and will give the Red Wings access to the Icehawks’ roster.

Thus far, two members of the Icehawks, center Kris Vernarsky and forward Neil Clark, have been invited to partake in the Red Wings’ training camp.

“The Port Huron area has a great hockey tradition and we look forward to expanding on that tradition,” Jim Nill, assistant general manager of the Red Wings, said. “Our coaches will evaluate players during training camp and the entire Red Wings organization will do its best to nurture the talent we find.”

Vernarsky has been playing professional hockey since 2002. He was selected in the second round of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs and played with the Boston Bruins, where he scored one goal in 17 games. Last year, the Warren native played with the Port Huron Flags and scored 22 points in 34 games.

Clark played at Iona College for the 2002-03 season before transferring to Manhattanville College, where he played from 2003-06. Last year, he was a member of the CHL's Laredo Bucks and played in the championship series against the Colorado Eagles. In 21 playoff games, he scored six goals and 12 points.

“This is great for our players and organization,” Port Huron coach-GM Stan Drulia said. “The Red Wings have allowed some of our players the opportunity to show case their skills at the games highest level. We look forward to the upcoming season and hope our players one day can play in the NHL.”

Watt returns to Muskegon for '07-08

2007-08-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

Forward Mike Watt will return to the Muskegon Fury this fall for his second year with the IHL team as player-assistant coach.

Last season, Watt, 31, finished ninth in UHL scoring with 35 goals among 79 points. He was also named the league's most sportsmanlike player.

“The return of Mike Watt represents a huge signing for the Muskegon Fury organization," Fury head coach Bruce Ramsay said. "The assets and attributes he brings to us are vast. He brings that key veteran leadership which is so vital to the successes that we enjoyed last season and for the upcoming season. He probably possesses the hardest shot in the league and always plays a strong and responsible game defensively. In addition, Mike will, again, serve in the capacity of our assistant coach. Through that role, he will instill the importance of our team systems and also play an important part in working with our young players. Mike is one of the most outstanding players in our league.”

Muskegon now has nine players under contract for next season.

K-Wings bring back Karlander, add goalie

2007-08-16T17:36:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings signed forward Kory Karlander and goaltender Brad Smith today.

Building off an average of 84 points over the past two seasons, Karlander is set to return for his fourth straight season and fifth overall with the K-Wings. The 12-year pro is the only current member of the K-Wings that can make claim of representing the K-Wings the last time they played under the IHL umbrella (1999-00).

Assistant captain the past two seasons and member of the K-Wings 2005-06 Colonial Cup championship team, Karlander made Kalamazoo’s final season in the United Hockey League a memorable one. The native of Melita, Manitoba shattered the franchise’s UHL record for goals in a single season netting 45 to surpass Jim Duhart, who established the record during the 1999-00 season, when the franchise was located in Madison, Wisconsin.

“Not only is Kory a top goal scorer in our league, he is also one of the top centers when it comes to winning face-offs," said Kalamazoo GM Wade Welsh. “Kory is committed to being a K-Wing. He had opportunities overseas, but his first choice was always to return to Kalamazoo.”

A consistent performer during the 2006-07 campaign, Karlander was one of five K-Wings selected to the starting lineup for the 2006 UHL All-Star Game. Karlander rung in the New Year going on an 11-game goal and point streak. The goal streak was both a season high for the K-Wings and UHL.

Stellar play in the regular season earned Karlander the K-Wings’ KOHA Plus/Minus (+20), Keyser Insurance Agency Leading Scorer (88) and Otten Trophies Star of Game (7) awards. Karlander’s postseason accolades were not limited to team honors. The veteran, who led all UHL players in goals scored (45) was selected to the UHL’s All-Star First Team.

Karlander’s regular season success carried over in last year’s playoffs where he went on a K-Wings’ and UHL playoff high 10-game point streak and in the process set the K-Wings’ UHL franchise record for points (33) in a playoff career.

In addition to playing in North America, Karlander has also played two seasons of hockey in the British International Super League with the Belfast Giants. While in Belfast during the 2002-03 season, Karlander led the Giants to the league championship. In 29 games, Karlander compiled 22 points in the regular season. During the playoffs, he proved to be unstoppable, amassing 24 points in just 18 games to lead his team to the title and earn the league’s post season scoring title.

Kalamazoo acquired the rights for Smith during the Dispersal Draft in June. The signing of Smith makes him the first goaltender signed for the upcoming season.

After commencing last season in the CHL with the New Mexico Scorpions, Smith finished his first season in professional hockey in the UHL splitting time with both Port Huron and Quad City. Smith allowed 44 goals in 13 games with both the Flags and the Mallards.

“Brad has the potential to be a good rookie goaltender in the new IHL,” said Welsh. “We expect him to come to camp, work hard and solidify our back-up goaltender position for the upcoming season.”

Though the 2007-08 season will be Smith’s second, the native of Detroit is considered a rookie under IHL rules, which states a goaltender shall have rookie status if he has logged less than 3,600 minutes between the pipes.

Smith, who played two years of NCAA hockey with the University of Connecticut, still holds the Huskies’ school record for saves in a single-game by stopping 52 of 53 shots en route to a 4-1 victory for UConn over Sacred Heart during the 2006 Atlantic Hockey Association quarterfinals.

Smith's top pro performance occurred with New Mexico as he recorded 45 saves last November 1 to lead the Scorpions to a 2-1 victory over the Youngstown Steelhounds.

The addition of Karlander and Smith gives the K-Wings a dozen players signed for the upcoming 2007-08 season.

K-Zoo brings back Drake, Versteeg-Lytwyn

2007-08-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced the signings of forwards Lucas Drake and Mark Versteeg-Lytwyn on Monday.

Known for scoring the most important goal in K-Wings’ UHL history, a game five Colonial Cup clinching overtime tally during the 2006 playoffs, Drake is one of the most popular
K-Wings in recent time.

The upcoming season will be Drake’s fifth as a professional and third in Kalamazoo. After hoisting the Colonial Cup to cap off the 2005-06 season, Drake started last year in the ECHL with the Columbia Inferno.

In mid-December, Drake returned to Kalamazoo and made an immediate impact, recording a hat trick in his Wings Stadium season debut versus the Fort Wayne Komets. The goal sparked an offensive explosion for Drake, who then went on a ten-game point streak.

“He (Drake) brings a lot of intangibles to our lineup,” said Wings GM Wade Welsh. “Over the past two seasons, Lucas has been one of our most consistent performers, especially in critical games.”

Drake’s heroics have been noticed by the fans, as the forward received the K-Wings’ Kalsee Credit Union Unsung Hero Award during each of his two seasons in Kalamazoo.

Kalamazoo has been a second home for the Holt native. Besides two years with the K-Wings, Drake played four seasons of collegiate hockey for the Western Michigan University Broncos (2000-2004), registering 55 points in 149 games.

Another returnee from 2006-07 K-Wings, Versteeg-Lytwyn was the youngest player (20 years old) in the UHL last season.

Youth didn’t hinder Versteeg-Lytwyn’s growth as a player, as the forward notched 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) during his rookie campaign, with 18 of those points occurring in the second half of the season. Highlighting his first-year was a four-point night on January 26 at Wings Stadium, where he recorded his first professional hat trick and added an assist against the Elmira Jackals.

As a result of Versteeg-Lytwyn improvements during the season, he received the K-Wings’ 2006-07 Meijer Most Improved Player Award.

“Mark is the type of player that will do whatever it takes to be successful,” said Welsh. “As last season went on, his confidence increased and so did his development. With a year under his belt, we (K-Wings) believe he will continue to grow as a player.”

Before turning pro last season, the native of Sharon, Ontario spent the past four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League. A majority of Versteeg-Lytwyn’s amateur success came with the Guelph Storm, where he helped his team to win the OHL championship ('03-04).

The addition of Drake and Versteeg-Lytwyn gives the K-Wings 10 players signed for the upcoming 2007-08 season.

Flint adds talented forward trio

2007-08-15T10:12:00.000-07:00

Michel Beausoleil, Mike Alexiou and Jaroslav Cesky all signed with the Flint Generals this week, adding to the team's supply of forwards.

Beausoleil spent the past season with the Oklahoma City Blazers of the Central Hockey League where he netted 19 goals and added 21 assists for 40 points and 71 penalty minutes in 54 games. He helped the Blazers return to the CHL playoffs where he had four points and 18 penalty minutes in 14 games.

“We are looking for Michel to be a force offensively,” said Generals director of hockey operations Ron Sanko. “He is a gifted and skilled player who we expect to be one of our team leaders in scoring.”

Alexiou spent four seasons at Merrimack College where he finished among the top 10 in scoring each of his four years.

“Mike has good skills and understands the game well,” said Generals head coach Kevin Kerr. “He will fill a role for us on the third line and we are happy to have him.”

Cesky, a native of the Czech Republic, was traded to Oklahoma City from the Tulsa Oilers, a team he was entering his third season with. In 31 games with the Blazers, the speedy right-winger had six goals and six assists for 12 points and 36 penalty minutes. He appeared in 13 playoff games with the Blazers and had five points (two goals and three assists) and 22 penalty minutes.

“Jaroslav is another quality guy with good work ethic, qreat speed and can contribute offensively to the lineup,” said Kerr. “He reminds me a lot of Jan Jas who was voted as a fan favorite with our team last year. He is a European who plays the North American style of game with an edge. We are building our team around toughness and grit and he will fit into our plans.”

Flint has 10 players under contract for the upcoming season.

Generals and Red Wings form affiliation

2007-08-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

The Flint Generals have entered into a one-year affiliation agreement with the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League.

Flint will serve as an affiliate at the Double-A level of professional hockey. As part of the affiliation, the Generals will send selected players to the Red Wings' training camp in Traverse City. During the season and playoffs Detroit will be able to send and or call-up players from Flint.

The Generals replace the Toledo Storm of the ECHL, who ceased operations last spring, as Detroit's No. 2 affiliate.

Generals sign ex-Mechanic Futers for '07-08

2007-08-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

The Flint Generals continue to add depth to their roster with the addition of forward Shawn Futers.

Futers spent last year with Quebec RadioX of the Quebec Senior Professional Hockey League where he played in 18 games and notched one goal and one assist for two points and had 77 penalty minutes.

The 6-foot-1, 230-pound left-shooting left winger has previous professional hockey experience with the Tulsa Oilers of the Central Hockey League where in the 2005-2006 season he had one goal and two assists for three points and 251 penalty minutes in 51 games.

“He’s a youthful guy who brings toughness and a physical presence to our team,” said Flint director of hockey operations Ron Sanko. “He is going to make players accountable who come in to Flint to play.”

Futers broke into professional hockey during the 2004-2005 season where he played in one game with the Motor City Mechanics of the United Hockey League.

The gritty forward played in 163 career junior games in the Ontario Hockey League with the Peterborough Petes, London Knights, Kingston Frontenacs and Sarnia Sting. He had six goals and 12 assists for 18 points and 292 career penalty minutes.

“He plays a role on the team and if you are going to have success you need grit, defense, playmakers and goal scorers,” Sanko said. “He is another piece of the puzzle to bring a winning team to Flint.”

Port Huron adds Davis, Gehrke to blueline

2007-08-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

The Port Huron Icehawks added defensemen Andrew Davis and Chris Gehrke this week.

Davis (6-foot-2, 210 pounds) is known for very physical defensive play. He compiled 166 penalty minutes last season in addition to eight goals and 20 assists while he split time with the Odessa Jackalopes and Memphis Riverkings of the Central Hockey League.

“This guy is can flat out play in any situation,” Icehawks coach-GM Stan Drulia said. “He competes on every shift with a nasty edge.”

Davis’ physical style of play has garnered the attention of the American Hockey League as he will be attending training camp this season with the Worcester Sharks.

Gehrke (5-foot-11, 205 pounds) has only played in 52 professional games, qualifying him as a rookie under International Hockey League rules. To qualify as a veteran, a player must amass 3600 minutes as a pro. The Icehawks obtained his rights by drafting him in the second round of the dispersal draft in June.

Gehrke played collegiate hockey at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Last year with the Chicago Hounds, he had 22 fighting majors and 206 penalty minutes.

“Chris is extremely physical, competes every shift and does not back down,” Drulia said. “He brings his lunch pail, blue-collar mentality on the ice and competes every shift and is not afraid to mix it up. Our fans may remember the fight he had last season with (former Flag) Colt King.”

Drulia stated that with these two additions, the Icehawks should be solid on the blue line.

“These two guys will keep the offensive players of the other teams on their heals,” Drulia explained. “Our defensive zone is not going to be a nice place for opposing players this season.”

The Icehawks now have 13 players on its roster for the upcoming 2007-2008 campaign. Davis and Gehrke will join defensemen Mark DeSantis, B.J. Adams and Chris Bogas. The team has also inked goaltenders Marty Magers, Ron Vogel and Ray Jean.

Now that the defense is strong, Drulia plans on addressing the team’s offensive needs.

“We are working our way out,” Drulia said. “Our goaltending is solid, our defense is solid and offense is our next step.”

Zalba makes return to Muskegon

2007-08-10T16:34:00.000-07:00

Bill Zalba signed with the Muskegon Fury yesterday for his third tour of duty with the club.

Last season in Muskegon, Zalba posted nine goals and 15 points. He's known as a sparkplug and Fury head coach Bruce Ramsay is aware of what Zalba can contribute.

“First, we are pleased to have Bill back in the fold for the upcoming season," Ramsay said. "He has been an outstanding two-way performer who has always brought a lot to the table for the team and is very much appreciated by his teammates. He has become an ace penalty-killer for us and he has the ability to play all three of the forward positions in a very versatile fashion and he will always stand-up for his teammates no matter what the situation may be.”

With Zalba's signing, the Fury now has eight players under contract for next season.

Muskegon signs pair of defensemen

2007-08-08T07:26:00.001-07:00

The Muskegon Fury today signed defensemen Jay Hardwick and Russ Moyer.

Hardwick played the last three seasons in the Central Hockey League with the Corpus Christi Rayz after four years at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Moyer just completed his college career in Canada at Acadia University. He won an Ontario Hockey League championship in 2001 with the Ottawa 67's.

“Jay Hardwick is a solid, stay-at-home-defenseman who will be a very effective player and will continue to keep the Fury’s tradition alive of being a very strong defensive team," Fury head coach Bruce Ramsay said. "In addition, he brings to us the valuable experience of pro leadership which should translate in Jay being good in the locker room and a standout team man. The attributes he brings to Muskegon will make us a better overall team as well.

“As far as Russ Moyer is concerned, he is expected to be one of the best rookies in the IHL for the upcoming season. He, too, is a solid defenseman who possesses good offensive talents and instincts. He has excellent speed and we look for him to create and contribute offensively for us this new season.”

Muskegon now has seven players under contract for 2007-2008.

Flint brings in big defender Westgarth

2007-08-07T19:36:00.000-07:00

The Flint Generals strengthened their defense corps this week with the signing of rookie Brett Westgarth.

Westgarth spent the end of the 2006-2007 season with the Syracuse Crunch of the American Hockey League and notched an assist and had six penalty minutes in five games.

“We are excited to have a player with the caliber and talent of Brett,” said Generals head coach Kevin Kerr. “He is a big kid who understands the game and can move the puck really well. Brett has a good upside offensively and is solid defensively.”

Prior to attending the Generals training camp, Westgarth will take part in the Detroit Red Wings training camp.

Westgarth spent four years at Princeton University where he played in 114 career games and notched four goals and 20 assists for 24 points and 110 penalty minutes. The 6-foot-2, 215-pound right-shooting defender from Amherstburg, Ontario was a member of the ECAC All-Academic Team in 2004, 2006 and 2007. Westgarth was also four-time letterwinner while at Princeton.

Flint now has six players signed for the 2007-2008 season.

Red Wings like Gelech's potential

2007-08-04T18:15:00.000-07:00

By Matthew Wuest

http://www.redwingscentral.com/

The Detroit Red Wings see a little bit of Anaheim Ducks forward Travis Moen in recently-signed right-winger Randall Gelech.

The 23-year-old Gelech inked a two-year contract with the Red Wings in mid-July after the Phoenix Coyotes opted not to re-sign him. The Red Wings like his potential and want to keep developing him, and will likely assign him to the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League.

“You’re hoping Gelech, down the road, maybe becomes a Travis Moen,” Red Wings assistant general manager Jim Nill said. “He played against Moen in junior and he was just as good of a player. You’re just hoping. He’s still a young kid.”

Moen, 25, had 21 points in 82 games with the Ducks last season and added 12 points in 21 playoff games en route to Stanley Cup. Gelech recorded 17 goals and 17 assists for 34 points in 79 games last season with the AHL’s San Antonio Rampage.

The 6-foot-3, 200-pounder has the attributes of a good NHL fourth-liner.

“We like his size, he plays hard on the boards, he chases the puck well and he has pretty good hands for a big guy,” Nill said. “In this game, we’re forced to rush a lot of kids and we’re just hoping we find one of them who slips through the cracks, much like Dan Cleary did.”

In other news, goaltender Logan Koopmans has re-signed with the Red Wings, inking a one-year contract. The 23-year-old has averaged just over 20 starts per season over the past three years because of various injuries, and was even contemplating retirement at one point.

The Red Wings now have five goaltenders under contract.

“He had tough luck with injuries and we just said, ‘You know what? Let's give him a chance, one more time,’” Nill said.

Generals hire Puska for radio duties

2007-08-03T18:10:00.000-07:00

The Flint Generals will have a new radio voice this season.

The Generals announced the hiring of Denis J. Puska as the new Director of Media Relations/Broadcasting and Account Executive. Puska begins working in the Generals front office next Monday.

Puska brings more than 20 years of broadcasting and media relations experience to the position along with six years in professional hockey. He was the 2004 Central Hockey League’s Broadcaster of the Year while with the Amarillo Gorillas, a team he spent four seasons with. That same season he was named as a member of the broadcast team for the CHL All-Star Game in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

“I am thrilled to be joining a first-class organization in the Generals,” said Puska, a native of Kapuskasing, Ontario. “I’ve heard nothing but great things about the new ownership group and can’t wait to get started getting to know the great Generals’ hockey fans and becoming a part of the community.”

Puska spent the 2006-2007 season with the Pensacola Ice Pilots of the ECHL and prior to that was the first radio voice of the Huntsville Havoc of the Southern Professional Hockey League.

Broadcasting hockey has been in Puska’s blood from an early age. He began practicing calling games in his parent’s basement in Canada at the age of 11 and got his first job at the local radio station calling minor hockey tournaments at 14. He is a graduate of the Broadcast Journalism program at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario. Puska has spent many years working in the media industry as a reporter for newspapers and radio stations.

He had an article on San Jose Sharks’ forward Jonathan Cheechoo published in The Hockey News in 1999.

The Generals and also hired Andy Howell as Director of Game-Day Operations. He comes to the Generals from the Saginaw Spirit of the OHL. Howell graduted from Flushing High School and has a degree from Northwood University in Sports Entertainment and Sports Promotions and Management.

Fury re-signs Collins for fourth season

2007-08-03T17:11:00.000-07:00

The Muskegon Fury signed forward Billy Collins today for his fourth full season with the Fury.

Collins, 25, scored 11 goals and 26 points last season for Muskegon and was also a member of the 2005 Colonial Cup championship team.

“We’re glad to have Billy back on board with us for another Fury season," said Muskegon head coach Bruce Ramsay. "He has been a consistent player for us over the years and has really excelled in the playoffs. He also has shown the ability to be an effective penalty-killer. Billy possesses the special talent of having excellent hands, especially in close and his overall size and strength are true assets for us.”

In the 2005-06 season, the former Wayne State standout (2001-2004) was awarded the Fury team award for Most Improved Player, recording 37 points in 73 games on 18 goals and 19-assists with 154 penalty minutes.

Collins was originally the Fury's fourth-round pick in the 2004 North American Amateur Draft.

Muskegon now has five players under contract for 2007-2008.

Reeds steps down in K-Zoo, off to OHL

2007-08-01T13:29:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced today that director of hockey operations and head coach Mark Reeds has left the organization to except a similar position in the Ontario Hockey League with the Owen Sound Attack.

With the departure of Reeds, the K-Wings have already begun the search for the 19th head coach, not including interim coaches, in K-Wings history, and first since joining the newly-formed IHL.

Reeds has produced winning teams everywhere he has coached, but it was with the K-Wings were he flourished. By having the K-Wings give him all the resources he needed, Reeds was able to reach the postseason every year he was in Kalamazoo, which includes reaching the Colonial Cup Finals the past two seasons.

The only man to be selected UHL Coach of the Year on more than one occasion (three times: 2001-2002, 2003-2004, 2004-2005), Reeds helped the K-Wings capture its first championship in 26 seasons during the 2005-06. Reeds also ranks third on the UHL’s all-time coaching win list.

With heading the OHL, Reeds heads to a league that over this off-season sent many coaches to the American Hockey League.

“Mark’s goal has always been to coach in the National Hockey League and he believes he is moving closer to obtaining that goal by excepting this position,” said Kalamazoo GM Wade Welsh. “This off season a majority of the coaching vacancies in the AHL were filled by OHL head coaches."

Prior to coming to Kalamazoo, Reeds honed his winning coaching style as an assistant coach of the Peoria Rivermen (IHL). After four seasons as an assistant coach, he was named head coach of the Rivermen, when they joined the ECHL. While the bench boss of the Rivermen, Reeds guided Peoria to the Kelly Cup semifinals in 1996-97, and a Northwest Division and Northern Conference title in 1997-98. In fact, from 1996-98, Reeds compiled more wins than any other coach in the ECHL.

Following his tenure in Peoria , Reeds became the head coach of the Missouri River Otters and right away established the standard for an expansion franchise. The River Otters are still one of three expansion teams in UHL history to average 40 wins in their first three seasons.

As stated above, the K-Wings have already commenced the search for a replacement.

“We have high standards in every aspect of our organization, including the director of hockey operations/head coach,” said Welsh. “While we understand the season is fast approaching, we will take our due diligence during this search to secure the perfect candidate that meets the standards we set in place five years ago.”

Fury signs forward Sergerie, defender Plante

2007-08-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

The Muskegon Fury signed forward Adam Sergerie and All-Star defenseman Philippe Plante this week.

Sergerie just finished a three-year career in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League with the Selkirk Steelers where he literally re-wrote his team’s book of records. He posted 125 points in 56 games on 64 goals and 61 assists, while his 28 power-play goals also led the league and his 61 assists ranked as fifth most in the MJHL.

“We feel fortunate to have signed a rookie player of this stature as he was third in league-wide scoring and second overall in all of Canadian Junior ‘A’ Tier II hockey in goal production," noted Fury head coach Bruce Ramsay.

Plante will be starting his fourth season with Muskegon this fall. Finishing fourth on club in scoring last year, he had 67 points in 75 games on 18 goals and 47 assists with 102 penalty minutes and a +38 rating.

"Philippe, without question, is one of the best defensemen in our league," Ramsay said. "Both offensively and defensively, he really excels. Last season, he was the second best scoring defenseman in the whole league. He comes to play and works hard every night, every game. He is a team leader both on and off the ice and he always wants to win. With Phil and Dave Van Drunen, we have, perhaps, the two best defensemen at this level of our pro game.”

The Fury now have four players under contract for this upcoming season.

Icehawks add three more forwards

2007-08-01T13:20:00.001-07:00

The Port Huron Icehawks announced today that the team has added offensive firepower by signing Brent Hughes, Tab Lardner and Neil Clark.

The trio is expected to provide Port Huron with a potent scoring attack this season in the newly reformed International Hockey League. All three have played professional minor league hockey, bring playoff experience and have performed in big games.

Last year, Hughes’ Colorado Eagles defeated Clark’s Laredo Bucks for the CHL President’s Cup championship. These competitors-turned teammates bring that big-game experience to Port Huron and are expected to add a solid scoring attack from the wings.

Hughes last year played for the Amarillo Gorillas and Colorado Eagles, scoring 10 goals and 29 points in just 39 regular-season games. He also scored 10 points in the playoffs as the Eagles captured the CHL championship.

“Brent is a small, feisty player who competes every shift,” Icehawks' coach-GM Stan Drulia said. “He is a lunch pail-type player.”

Clark attended and played at Iona College in 2002-03 before he transferred to Manhattanville College, where he played from 2003-06. Last year, he was a member of the Laredo Bucks and played in the championship series against Hughes and the Eagles. In 21 playoff games, he scored six goals and amassed 12 points.

“Clark is a big game player with blue collar mentality,” Drulia said. “His strong play helped propel Laredo to the finals last year.”

Clark will also be attending the Detroit Red Wings training camp with Icehawks teammate Kris Vernarsky September in Traverse City. He qualifies as a rookie on the Icehawks roster.

Lardner played collegiate hockey for Michigan Tech University from 1997-2001 and started his pro career in 2001. His best professional season was 2005-06 when he scored 25 goals and 55 points for the Wichita Thunder of the CHL. Last season, he scored 19 goals and 29 assists for the Youngstown Steelhounds as they advanced to the playoffs. In his seven professional seasons, Lardner has helped his team advance to the playoffs four times.

“He’s been averaging almost a full point per game the last few seasons,” Drulia said. “He never stops working and his great speed is a real asset for our penalty kill unit. On top of it all, he is also a great character guy, which makes everyone around him better.”

The signing of Hughes, Lardner and Clark give the Icehawks 11 players on their roster.

Port Huron signs trio of goalies

2007-08-01T13:16:00.000-07:00

The Port Huron Icehawks signed three goalies this week: Ron Vogel, Marty Magers and Ray Jean.

“I think our goalie tandem will be the best in the league,” Icehawks' head coach Stan Drulia said. “Both Vogel and Magers can be No. 1 goaltenders on any team. As a coach, this gives me a lot of options. Out of these two guys, whoever I put in goal, I know he has the skill to win us the game.”

Vogel posted a 45-23-10 record over the past two seasons with the Rockford IceHogs and CHL's Corpus Christi Rayz. In that time, he made over 2000 saves and has a .908 save percentage. In his last season in the former United Hockey League with Rockford, Vogel went 23-11-6 with a 2.90 goals-against average.

“This guy is a battler, plays the puck very well and will help our D get the puck up ice,” Drulia explained. “He’s the main reason Corpus Christi had a long playoff run in 2007.”

The Icehawks used their first selection in this year’s expansion draft to obtain his Magers. Since he has logged less than 3600 minutes as a pro, he will count as one of the Icehawks’ rookies this year. Magers played with the Chicago Hounds last year and had a save percentage of .910.

“Marty competes every night and is a guy who can log a lot of games,” Drulia said. “He competes every night and was the main reason that Chicago rebounded last year with a solid finish to their season.”

Jean started his collegiate hockey career at Maine, but played his junior and senior seasons at Bentley College. During his best season in the NCAA, he had a .917 save percentage and 2.85 goals-against average in 28 games. Jean will battle for a roster spot during training camp.

Vogel, Magers and Jean will join a talented trio of defensemen in B.J. Adams, Chris Bogas and Mark DeSantis and centers Jeremy Tucker and Kris Vernarsky.

All four IHL teams sign players

2007-07-26T17:46:00.000-07:00

The Flint Generals have signed defenseman Ryan Jorde and forward John DiPace.

"Our coaching staff is very excited to have Ryan Jorde back for a second season," head coach Kevin Kerr said. "He brings toughness and good leadership on and off the ice. He is a guy who will fit well with the new rule changes in the IHL. He will add a lot of toughness to our defense. Ryan is a very solid two-way defenseman."

DiPace is back for a second stint in a Flint uniform. He brings skill and speed and fits well with the coach's style of play.

"John is a feisty player who is not afraid to mix it up and can put the puck in the net," added Kerr.

**************************************************

Defenseman Dave Van Drunen re-signed with the Muskegon Fury today.

“Dave has been the ultimate warrior for the Fury for the past three years," Fury head coach Bruce Ramsay said. "No one battles harder and better every game than ‘Vandy.’ He is a model leader in the locker room as well as on the ice. He plays a ton every game, every night and leads with his seemingly tireless efforts. Not only that, but he may just be the best penalty-killer in the league and is on the ice in every key situation which faces our team.

"Anyone who plays with him and is around him benefits immensely from his entire approach to the game. I have known him for a lot of years; he is a class person both on and off the ice and we are really thrilled to have him back with us for a fourth season.”

*************************************************

The Kalamazoo Wings announced the signings of defenseman Ed Campbell and forward Joel Rechlicz.

“Ed is a gritty player that should thrive in our system,” said Wings' GM Wade Welsh. “With Campbell on the ice, our goaltenders won’t have to worry about opposing players crowding the crease.

“To be successful in the IHL you are going to need physical players. Joel is a young, tough kid that under the tutelage of (head coach) Mark (Reeds) can hopefully flourish as an all around player.”

************************************************

Port Huron added defenseman Chris Bogas and forward Jeremy Tucker.

“Chris is a veteran d-man who plays in all situations," said Icehawks' head coach Stan Drulia. "He is also one of the funniest guys I know. His character and personality will help keep his teammates loose.

"(Tucker) plays hard every time he is on the ice, and he is very versatile. After taking three years off from playing before last season, we are looking for him to be more comfortable and a huge part of our success this season.”

Kalamazoo brings back popular trio

2007-07-24T20:52:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced the signings of forwards Mike Manley and Glenn Detulleo and defenseman Jeff Brown on Tuesday.

The last time K-Wings fans saw Manley in a Wings jersey he was hoisting the Colonial Cup. After playing last season in the ECHL with the Trenton Titans, Manley comes back to the team where he started his professional career. The forward was a member of the K-Wings from 2004-06.

“He (Manley) got caught in a numbers game in the ECHL with contracted NHL draft picks and didn’t get the ice time he needed to succeed,” said Kalamazoo GM Wade Welsh. “Returning to the K-Wings gives Manley the perfect opportunity to showcase his abilities.”

Manley is a bona fide performer that has a track record of scoring in the clutch and well as a proven commodity on the penalty kill.

During the 2005-06 season, Manley led all United Hockey League rookies in shorthanded goals with six. The six shorthanders by Manley still stand as the K-Wings’ single-season UHL franchise record.

Adding to the K-Wings offensive arsenal will be Detulleo. The native of Timmins, Ontario is coming off a postseason run, which he set the K-Wings’ UHL record for assists in a single playoff year (15).

“Glenn creates scoring chances for both him and his linemates,” said Welsh. “He’s coming off a career playoff year and we expect him to continue were he left off.”

Over the past two seasons, Detulleo has averaged 63 points, which includes the 2005-06 season with the Quad City Mallards. An iron man during that season, Detulleo set personal career high in goals (17) assists (53) and points (70). Last season, Glenn continued his scoring brilliance tying his career best for goals in a single season.

Originally, joining the K-Wings last November through a trade with Quad City, Detulleo split last season with the K-Wings, Mallards and Elmira Jackals.

Also returning to the K-Wings will be Brown. The 2007-08 season will be Brown’s tenth as a professional and second in Kalamazoo.

Last season, Brown helped anchor one of the stingiest defenses in the UHL, which surrendered 2.51 goals a game. Brown was also one of five members of the K-Wings to earn to be selected and start in the 2007 UHL All-Star Classic.

“When you have the opportunity to sign an all-star caliber player, you have to jump at it,” said Welsh. “Brown’s experience and leadership are assets to our blueline and locker room.”

Brown, who was the first round pick (22nd overall pick) of the New York Rangers in 1996, has an extensive resume which includes four years of Junior A hockey in the Ontario Hockey League, as well as international experience. During the 1998-99 season, Brown represented his country by playing for Team Canada.

The addition of Manley, Detulleo and Brown gives the K-Wings six players signed for the upcoming 2007-08 season.

Also signed for next season are forwards Nick Bootland and Tyler Willis and defenseman Adam Elzinga.

Detroit camp invite Engelage reflects

2007-07-21T20:37:00.000-07:00

Hey Spits Fans,

Well, as I'm sure you all know, I was invited to attend the Red Wings strength and conditioning camp earlier this month.

I headed over to Detroit on July 4th and checked into the Marriott Hotel at the GM Renaissance Centre just across the river. I stayed with Jakub Kindl of the Kitchener Rangers for the week.

After checking in, we all met at the Joe Louis Arena and did our fitness testing. Then the week began. We had to wake up a little before 7:00 am to catch breakfast and our ride over to the Joe. We would do a team warm up before every skate in the morning. We were then on the ice from 8:30 am until 10:00 am. The skates were fairly tough for the goaltenders.

We had Detroit’s goalie coach Jim Bedard out with us for every skate which was great as it allowed me to learn a lot. After our skates we were able to go back to the hotel and catch about a two hour nap. Then we were back to the Joe for our workouts. We had different things to do each day, some days were upper body and some were lower body and some were core. We also went for two three mile runs along the Detroit River.

During the camp we also were able to attend several special events. We were lucky enough to attend two Detroit Tigers games versus the Boston Red Sox. We were able to sit in the Ilitch's suite which was located right behind home plate. We had the best seats in the house and a lot of food to go with it! Also, the Tigers won both games which was exciting.

We were also taken out to the Hockeytown restaurant for a nice meal. We were also able to catch a couple of movies. The hotel had its own movie theatres which were nice.

Overall, I feel that I did well at camp and really enjoyed myself. It was an experience of a lifetime.

See you all in September,

Andrew Engelage #1

Courtesy Windsor Spitfires

Generals add bruising defender Mallette

2007-07-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

He's 6-foot-4, weighs 230 pounds, has averaged 243 penalty minutes during a seven-year pro career, can skate a regular shift and is reportedly a great guy to have in the dressing room.

Today, he's a Flint General.

The Generals landed the type of defenseman every team covets when they signed bruising blue-liner Kris Mallette to anchor their defense.

The Flint Jounal has the details HERE.

Stothers takes over in Grand Rapids

2007-07-19T17:27:00.000-07:00

The Detroit Red Wings on Wednesday named Mike Stothers as the new head coach for the Grand Rapids Griffins, their American Hockey League affiliate.

Stothers, 45, becomes the seventh head coach in Griffins history. Prior to serving the last five seasons as head coach for the Ontario Hockey League’s Owen Sound Attack, he spent 20 years in the Philadelphia Flyers organization as a player and coach.

The Flyers’ first-round pick (21st overall) in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft, Stothers is one of a select group that has won the AHL’s Calder Cup as both a player and a coach. He first hoisted the cup as a defenseman for the Maine Mariners in 1984, then repeated the feat as an assistant coach with the Philadelphia Phantoms in 1998.

Following a 10-year playing career that included 30 NHL contests with the Flyers and Toronto Maple Leafs, Stothers enjoyed a phenomenal nine-year run as an assistant coach for both the Flyers and their AHL affiliates. During his first three seasons with the expansion Phantoms, he helped guide the club to three straight division crowns (1996-99), consecutive AHL regular season titles (1996-98) and the league’s 1998 championship.

After serving interim stints as an assistant coach with the Flyers during both the 1998-99 and 1999-00 seasons, Stothers worked behind the NHL team’s bench for two full seasons from 2000-02, capping off his tenure with an Atlantic Division title in 2001-02.

In 13 seasons as both a head coach and assistant coach in the NHL, AHL and OHL, his teams have never missed the playoffs. In 560 regular season AHL games, Stothers has compiled a 284-199-65-12 (.576) mark, along with a 36-26 (.581) record in 62 Calder Cup Playoff contests. His career coaching resume shows 529 wins in 1064 regular season games, plus 52 wins in 107 postseason affairs.

"For us, it's important that our coach has what it takes to succeed in our league. With his experience in the AHL, he understands what players go through in their development and that's important," Griffins GM Bob McNamara said. "It's a great fit for both organizations.”

Stothers joins returning assistant coach Jim Paek in preparation for the Griffins’ 12th season overall and their seventh AHL campaign in 2007-08.

Bouchard first to sign with Fury for '07-08

2007-07-17T08:49:00.000-07:00

The Muskegon Fury have announced that perennial all-star right wing Robin Bouchard has assented to terms and signed a one-year contract which will return him to Muskegon for his 11th season under the Fury banner. Bouchard will also serve as the Fury’s player-assistant coach.

Bouchard, 33, will be embarking on his 14th pro season overall. Last season in Italy, he amassed 46 points in 28 games on 18 goals and 28 assists with 60 penalty minutes. During the 2005-2006 season in Muskegon, Bouchard had 59 goals among 116 points. For his entire UHL career, he ranked at or near the top in virtually every major offensive category. His 490 goals, 202 power-play goals and seven game-winning goals all rank No. 1 for the league. His 483 assists, 973 points and 732 games all rank him as third-best in those three categories. He ranks fifth in career PIM with 1,730 as well.

“We are very, very excited to have Robin back with us," said Fury head coach Bruce Ramsay. "He means so much to this franchise both on and off the ice. His popularity here is undeniable and he is a true asset to our entire organization. Over the years, Robin and I have developed an outstanding relationship and we look forward with much anticipation of having him here the full year as our player-assistant coach. He will be a great aide in grooming and developing our good, young players in this upcoming season.

"The best way to probably say it today is that today’s signing of Robin Bouchard represents a major step in assembling our team for the new season in the exciting new IHL. With Robin back in our lineup, it’s another good reason why all of the Fury fans and this great hockey community will really enjoy watching our team this season.”

A year-round resident of the Muskegon area, Bouchard, himself, is both thrilled and determined as he eagerly gets ready for the new Fury season.

“I’m really happy to be back and be part of such an outstanding organization in the new IHL," Bouchard said. "What makes this even more exciting and enjoyable is the great new direction of our league. The IHL is doing it right. This is the model, the best direction for minor pro hockey and was one of the most important factors in my decision to come back to the Fury. I’m looking forward to the new season in a new league; it’s like a new life in the new IHL. As far as being the player/assistant coach is concerned, I’m also really looking forward to working with ‘Rammer.’

"Last season ended too early for us, but with ‘Rammer’ doing his usual great job of player recruitment, we’re going to have another strong season of Fury hockey. It’s fun to know that I will have been a part of the Colonial League, the United League and now the IHL.”

Icehawks sign veteran trio, including Adams

2007-07-17T05:27:00.000-07:00

The Port Huron Icehawks announced the signing of B.J. Adams for the 2007-2008 season Friday. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound defenseman will also serve as the team’s assistant coach.

Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Adams played four years of collegiate hockey at Bowling Green State University before turning pro for the tail end of the 1999-2000 season with the Milwaukee Admirals. He spent the next three seasons in the East Coast Hockey League and then joined the United Hockey League's Rockford IceHogs in 2003. After stints in Toledo (ECHL) and Odessa (Central Hockey League), Adams came to Port Huron with the Flags last season and played under current head coach Stan Drulia.

“B.J. was without a doubt our steadiest defenseman last year,” Drulia said. “He plays against the No. 1 line every night and we rely heavily on him during the penalty kill. He is also a great team leader and he will be instrumental in our recruiting process this summer.”

Adams suffered a shoulder injury last season that required surgery in the off-season, but still played through the injury during Port Huron’s playoff run last season. He is expected to be fully recovered in time for the upcoming season.

Adams is the third player to sign with the Icehawks since the newly reformed International Hockey League announced that hockey will return to Port Huron. Adams joins defenseman Mark DeSantis and center Kris Vernarsky.

Former Detroit coach Skinner passes

2007-07-16T06:58:00.000-07:00

Jimmy Skinner, who served with the Detroit Red Wings for 42 seasons and coached the star-laden Wings to the Stanley Cup in 1955, died last Wednesday at his home in Windsor, Ontario. He was 90.

Skinner is credited with starting the practice of kissing the Stanley Cup, which he did in the spring of 1955.

“He had never seen the Cup before,” said his son, Jim Skinner, Jr. “He just leaned over and kissed it. He did it naturally. Now everybody does it.”

The 1955 Red Wings were one of the strongest clubs in NHL history, with stars like Gordie Howe, Ted Lindsay, Terry Sawchuk, Alex Delvecchio and Red Kelly in their lineup. It was the fourth Cup winner in six seasons for the Wings, who didn’t win another until 1997.

Skinner’s coaching style relied heavily on veteran players.

“He treated everyone with dignity, like a family really,” recalled defenseman Marcel Pronovost, himself a member of the 1955 team, and now a scout for the New Jersey Devils.

Illness cut short Skinner’s coaching career, and he retired from coaching in 1958 with a record of 123 wins, 78 losses and 46 ties. He served the Wings in a variety of front office positions, including head scout, farm director and director of player personnel. He was general manager of the Red Wings from 1980-1982.

Skinner was born on Jan. 12, 1917, in Selkirk, Manitoba.

Article courtesy NHL.com, photo courtesy Detroit Red Wings Forever

Griffins loading up on prospects

2007-07-13T10:25:00.000-07:00

By Matthew Wuest
RedWingsCentral.com

The Detroit Red Wings continue to stock up their top minor-league affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League.

The Red Wings confirmed today the signing of center Mark Hartigan to a one-year, two-way contract. He’s the third high-profile minor-leaguer to be signed to a two-way contract by the Red Wings since July 1, joining center Mark Cullen and right winger Carl Corazzini.

Hartigan (57 points in 59 games) Cullen (52 points in 56 games), Corazzini (57 points in 68 games) were all extremely productive in the AHL last season and should provide significant offensive punch for the Griffins.

The squad could also see the return of do-everything captain Matt Ellis, who signed a two-year, two-way contract with the Wings in June.

Notable Red Wings prospects such as Darren Helm, Evan McGrath and Ryan Oulahen stand to benefit from their presence.

The Griffins should be stocked on the blue line, with at least three prospects among the group of Kyle Quincey, Derek Meech, Jakub Kindl and Jonathan Ericsson expected to be assigned to the minors.

The Red Wings also inked bruising defenseman Brad Ference to a one-year, two-way contract earlier this month.

Jimmy Howard and Adam Berkhoel are the anticipated tandem in goal.

The Griffins are coming off an average season, having gone 37-32-6-5 and losing in the first round of the playoffs. The off-season housecleaning should see the team make significant gains in the standings.

Red Wings announce '07-08 schedule

2007-07-12T06:07:00.000-07:00

Oct. 3 Anaheim, 7:00 p.m.
Oct. 6 at Chicago, 8:30 p.m.
Oct. 8 Edmonton, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 10 Calgary, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 12 Chicago, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 14 at Los Angeles, 8:00 p.m.
Oct. 15 at Anaheim, 10:00 p.m.
Oct. 18 at San Jose, 10:30 p.m.
Oct. 20 at Phoenix, 9:00 p.m.
Oct. 24 Vancouver, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 26 San Jose, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 28 at Vancouver, 10:00 p.m.
Oct. 30 at Edmonton, 9:00 p.m.

Nov. 1 at Calgary, 9:00 p.m.
Nov. 7 Nashville, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 9 Columbus, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 11 at Chicago, 7:00 p.m.
Nov. 13 at St. Louis, 7:00 p.m.
Nov. 17 Chicago, 7:00 p.m.
Nov. 18 at Columbus, 5:00 p.m.
Nov. 21 St. Louis, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 22 at Nashville, 8:00 p.m.
Nov. 24 at Columbus, 7:00 p.m.
Nov. 27 Calgary, 7:00 p.m.
Nov. 29 Tampa Bay, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 1 Phoenix, 7:00 p.m.
Dec. 4 at Montreal, 7:00 p.m.
Dec. 7 Minnesota, 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 9 Carolina, 5:00 p.m.
Dec. 10 at Nashville, 8:00 p.m.
Dec. 13 Edmonton, 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 15 Florida, 7:00 p.m.
Dec. 17 Washington, 7:00 p.m.
Dec. 19 Los Angeles, 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 20 at St. Louis, 8:30 p.m.
Dec. 22 at Minnesota, 8:00 p.m.
Dec. 26 at St. Louis, 8:30 p.m.
Dec. 27 at Colorado, 9:00 p.m.
Dec. 29 at Phoenix, 9:00 p.m.
Dec. 31 St. Louis, 7:00 p.m.

Jan. 2 Dallas, 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 5 at Dallas, 2:00 p.m.
Jan. 6 at Chicago, 7:00 p.m.
Jan. 8 Colorado, 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 10 Minnesota, 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 12 at Ottawa, 7:00 p.m.
Jan. 15 Atlanta, 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 17 Vancouver, 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 19 at San Jose, 10:30 p.m.
Jan. 22 at Los Angeles, 10:30 p.m.
Jan. 23 at Anaheim, 10:00 p.m.
Jan. 30 Phoenix, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 1 Colorado, 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 2 at Boston, 7:00 p.m.
Feb. 5 at Minnesota, 8:00 p.m.
Feb. 7 Los Angeles, 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 9 at Toronto, 3:00 p.m.
Feb. 10 Anaheim, 1:00 p.m.
Feb. 12 at Nashville, 8:00 p.m.
Feb. 15 Columbus, 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 17 at Dallas, 1:00 p.m.
Feb. 18 at Colorado, 8:00 p.m.
Feb. 22 at Calgary, 9:00 p.m.
Feb. 23 at Vancouver, 10:00 p.m.
Feb. 26 at Edmonton, 9:00 p.m.
Feb. 29 San Jose, 7:30 p.m.

Mar. 2 at Buffalo, 3:00 p.m.
Mar. 5 St. Louis, 7:30 p.m.
Mar. 9 Nashville, 3:00 p.m.
Mar. 11 Chicago, 7:30 p.m.
Mar. 13 Dallas, 7:30 p.m.
Mar. 15 Nashville, 1:00 p.m.
Mar. 16 at Columbus, 3:00 p.m.
Mar. 19 Columbus, 7:30 p.m.
Mar. 20 at Nashville, 8:00 p.m.
Mar. 22 at Columbus, 7:00 p.m.
Mar. 25 at St. Louis, 8:30 p.m.
Mar. 28 St. Louis, 7:30 p.m.
Mar. 30 Nashville, 3:00 p.m.

Apr. 2 at Chicago, 8:30 p.m.
Apr. 3 Columbus, 7:30 p.m.
Apr. 6 Chicago, 3:00 p.m.

Elzinga to return to Kalamazoo blueline

2007-07-12T05:12:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings have announced the signing of defenseman Adam Elzinga; per team policy, the terms of the contract will be undisclosed.

After leading all K-Wing defensemen in goals (10) scored a season ago, Elzinga is set for his third season in Kalamazoo . An assistant captain last year, Elzinga lead by example setting personal career high in points (34), goals (10) and assists (24) and amassed a plus/minus rating of +14.

Elzinga was a pillar of consistence all season and his stellar play didn’t go unnoticed by the league or by the fans. During the season, Elzinga was selected by the league and media to represent the K-Wings during the 2007 UHL All-Star Classic. Not only did the fans recognize Elzinga’s accomplishments midseason by selecting him to the all-star starting lineup, but the K-Wing faithful also honored the native of Burbank, Ill., by bestowing upon him the team’s Fifth-Third Bank Defenseman of the Year.

“Over the past two seasons, Adam has established himself as one of our top defenseman,” said Kalamazoo general manager Wade Welsh. “We expect him to continue to be an anchor on our blue line and help us reach our ultimate goal of winning another championship for the city of Kalamazoo.”

Elzinga has helped the K-Wings reached league supremacy in the recent past. Forever being linked to Kalamazoo ’s last championship (2005-06), Elzinga recorded an assist on the K-Wings Game Five Colonial Cup clinching goal, which earned the franchise its first hockey title in 26 years.

K-Wings captain Bootland to conduct clinic

2007-07-09T12:54:00.000-07:00

Wings Stadium, which is also home to “The Annex” and “The Cube," announces Kalamazoo Wings forward and team captain Nick Bootland will conduct an Adult Development & Learn to Play Hockey Clinic for both men and women in August.

Adults 18 years and older can hit the ice and learn the coolest game on Earth from the K-Wings’ captain. Bootland will teach participants how to play, shoot, skate and pass from 7-8 p.m. every Tuesday in August (7th, 14th, 21st, & 28th).

All skill levels are welcome; however, participants must bring their own equipment. The fee to partake in the clinic is $175 per person. Registration has already begun and will conclude on Friday, August 3.

For more information on registration, please contact Jeff Weber, Ice Events Coordinator, at (269) 345-2277 or by e-mail.

Stadium Management Company owns both the Wings Stadium Complex and the Kalamazoo Wings hockey team. The Wings Stadium Complex is comprised of three buildings; Wings Stadium seats more than 5,100 fans for K-Wings home games and more than 8,000 people for concerts and other stage events. The Annex seats 1,367 for ice events and can seat up to 2,850 for non-ice events such as car, boat, and trade shows. The Cube is the newer of the three facilities, that plays host to both ice and non-ice events. All three buildings are available for rental and feature numerous catering and meeting opportunities.

Drake signs one-year deal with Detroit

2007-07-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

The Detroit Red Wings today announced the team has agreed to contract terms with forward and former St. Louis captain Dallas Drake on a one-year contract.

In keeping with club policy, additional terms of the deal are not available.

Drake, 38, was originally selected by the Red Wings in the 1989 NHL Entry Draft (sixth round, 116th overall) out of Northern Michigan University and played two seasons for Detroit before being traded to Winnipeg in 1994 with goalie Tim Cheveldae for goalie and Michigan State alum Bob Essensa and defenseman Sergei Bautin.

"We're very pleased to have Dallas join the Red Wings," said Detroit GM Ken Holland. "He's a very physical player who will add grit to our lineup and make our team even more difficult to play against. He's a veteran player and you can never have enough experience and leadership on a team."

In 14 NHL seasons with Detroit, Winnipeg, Phoenix and St. Louis, Drake has appeared in 944 NHL games, tallying 174 goals, 297 assists for 471 points and 844 penalty minutes

Bootland bolts Motown for the Island

2007-07-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

The New York Islanders have signed right wing Darryl Bootland to a one-year deal.

The 25-year-old Bootland comes to the Islanders after playing in the Detroit Red Wings organization for the past five seasons. He played 68 games for the Red Wings American Hockey League affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins, last season totaling 18 goals and 13 assists with 222 penalty minutes.

"Darryl will be counted on as a power forward, who will contribute points on a consistent basis," Bridgeport Sound Tigers (AHL) president Howard Saffan said. "His experience with the Red Wings will benefit our young players because he will be able to show them what it takes to compete at an NHL level every night."

During the 2006 Calder Cup playoffs, the 6-foot-2, 200-pound Bootland helped Grand Rapids make the Western Conference Finals by scoring five goals and seven assists in 16 games.

Over the course of the Bradford, Ontario native's AHL career, he has registered 72 goals and 68 assists with a total of 1,164 penalty minutes in 293 games. In 28 career NHL games, all with Detroit, Bootland has a goal and an assist with 83 penalty minutes.

"The style of play that I have always prided myself on playing is one of accountability," Bootland said. "My new teammates, coaching staff and fans will always be able to rely on me to put forward an honest effort every time I step onto the ice."

Flint signs ex-WMU goalie Marvin

2007-07-09T05:53:00.000-07:00

The Flint Generals have signed goaltender Eric Marvin for the upcoming 2007-2008 season.

Marvin played seven games for the Generals after his collegiate career at Western Michigan University in 2006.

The 24-year-old from Naperville, Ill., was a member of the Laredo Bucks in the Central Hockey League last season and posted a 20-8-4 record along with a 2.59 goals-against average and a .900 save percentage.

“Eric is a top notch goaltender,” said Flint head coach Kevin Kerr. “He was a big reason that the Laredo Bucks went to the playoffs and made the finals last season.”

"I’m excited to be included in rebuilding the tradition,” said Marvin. “Working with The Perani Group, front office personnel and the coaching staff is something to be proud of. We’ll have a young, exciting team that should immediately compete for an IHL championship.”

Red Wings re-sign the Dominator

2007-07-06T04:52:00.000-07:00

DETROIT (AP) - Dominik Hasek and the Detroit Red Wings agreed to terms of a one-year contract Thursday that is worth more than $2 million in base salary and gives the 42-year-old goalie a chance to earn an additional $2 million in bonuses.

"It's a lot less than he should be making," Hasek's agent Ritch Winter said. "It's one of the few deals that I do in which the player, the club and the agent agree the player is worth $5 (million) or $6 million and we talk it down from there.

"Dom didn't want more. He's taking one for the team. It's not one of my fun deals, but Dom is happy and that's important."

The six-time Vezina Trophy winner and two-time MVP informed the Red Wings that he wanted to play in Detroit again, but it took weeks for the sides to reach a deal.

In July 2006, he signed a one-year contract worth $750,000 and earned $900,000 in bonuses after helping the Red Wings advance past the second round for the first time since 2002. Detroit was eliminated in the Western Conference finals by the Anaheim Ducks, who went on to win the Stanley Cup.

Hasek was 38-11-6 with a 2.05 goals-against average, .913 save percentage and eight shutouts during his 15th regular season and third in Detroit. In the playoffs, Hasek was 10-8 with a 1.79 GAA, .923 save percentage and two shutouts.

For his legacy and bank account, Hasek didn't need to put on his skates and equipment this season. And he certainly didn't have to play another year in the NHL.

One of the world's best goaltenders has had a lot of personal success and earned tens of millions of dollars.

He's won, too, leading the Czech Republic to the gold medal in the 1998 Olympics and helping Detroit win the Stanley Cup in 2002.

When Ottawa decided last summer that it didn't want him back after an injury-plagued season, he could have retired again knowing his spot in the Hall of Fame was secure.

But a big part of what has made Hasek an all-time great - an insatiable appetite to compete - brought him back to Detroit with a bargain-basement, incentive-laden contract.

"I didn't come back to play and to make money," Hasek said in April. "I came back because I want to compete for the Stanley Cup, and to win the Stanley Cup. I didn't have a chance because of my injuries and the lockout the last four years and now I am back and I'm excited about it.

"I was waiting a long, long time to be back in the playoffs."

Hasek looked a lot like he did in his previous playoff appearance in 2002, when he had six shutouts in the playoffs en route to a Stanley Cup title that seemed to complete his career and led to his one-season retirement.

When Hasek signed last July, however, eyebrows were raised and the move was questioned.

He retired shortly after winning the Cup in his first season with the Red Wings only to come back a year later, creating an awkward situation for them because they signed Curtis Joseph to replace him.

Then, a groin injury limited Hasek to just 14 games during the 2003-04 season. After the lockout, the same ailment knocked him out of the Olympics last year and from the Senators' lineup.

Hasek showed again that when healthy, he's still one of hockey's top goalies.

He won 38 of 56 games - giving him 362 career victories over a 14-year career in Chicago, Buffalo, Detroit and Ottawa - and allowed an average of just two goals.

Photo © Photofile

Detroit inks Ellis, Ference, Berkhoel

2007-07-06T04:43:00.000-07:00

By Matthew Wuest
www.RedWingsCentral.com

The Detroit Red Wings have signed forward Matt Ellis, defenseman Brad Ference and goaltender Adam Berkhoel, a team source said Thursday. Ellis, who has been in the Red Wings' system for five seasons, took a pass on unrestricted free agency to sign a two-year deal, while Ference and Berkhoel have inked one-year contracts.

The 26-year-old Ellis served as captain of the American Hockey League's Grand Rapids Griffins last season, recording 26 goals and 23 assists for 49 points in 65 games. He also made his NHL debut with Detroit, averaging 5:35 of ice time and going pointless in six games. Ellis will have a chance to win a spot as Detroit's 12th or 13th forward at training camp, but he could also return to Grand Rapids.

Ference, the 10th overall pick in the 1997 NHL Entry Draft, has played just five NHL games over the past three seasons. The 6-foot-3, 218-pounder, known for his nasty disposition, had three goals, 23 assists and 210 penalty minutes in 73 games with the AHL's Omaha Knights last year. Ference is a veteran of 250 NHL games, during which he has recorded 565 penalty minutes. He'll likely play in the AHL next season.

Berkhoel, meanwhile, is No. 4 on the Red Wings' goaltending depth chart, and could serve as Jimmy Howard's backup in Grand Rapids next season. He spent last year with the ECHL's Dayton Bombers, posting a 2.44 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage in 44 starts. The 26-year-old Denver University product appeared in nine NHL games with the Atlanta Thrashers in 2005-06 as an injury replacement.

Red Wings re-sign Hudler through 2009

2007-07-05T09:39:00.000-07:00

Detroit Red Wings general manager Ken Holland announced today the team has re-signed forward Jiri Hudler to a two-year contract.

In keeping with club policy, additional terms of the deal are not available.

In his first full NHL season in 2006-07, Hudler appeared in 76 games and led all Detroit rookies in goals (15), assists (10) and points (25). He finished strong down the stretch, collecting over half (13) of his 25 points in the final 20 games of the season.

The Czech Republic native also made his Stanley Cup playoff debut in 2007, playing in six games with two assists.

Hudler was voted the 2007 Red Wings' Rookie of the Year by the Detroit Sports Broadcasters Association. Past winners of the award include Johan Franzen (2006) and Henrik Zetterberg (2003).

Photo courtesy Detroit Red Wings

Windsor's Engelage gets Wings tryout

2007-07-04T11:50:00.000-07:00

Jim Parker
Windsor Star

Windsor Spitfires goaltender Andrew Engelage is certain to split some allegiances.

Playing in a border town known for its split rivalries between the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs, the 18-year-old Engelage has chosen to pursue his hockey future with the Wings over the Leafs.

Bypassed in last month's NHL Draft, Engelage was offered a chance to come to camp with both teams, but had to make a decision when both camps lined up the same week.

"It wasn't tough when you're looking for the best opportunity," Engelage said. "There's not a ton (of prospects) in Detroit's system."

So Engelage, who grew up a Toronto fan, will instead attend Detroit's strength and conditioning camp for prospects at Joe Louis Arena from Thursday through next Tuesday.

"It's a little disappointing they didn't pick me up in the draft, but they (the Red Wings) called me after the draft and asked me if I wanted to come and I took the opportunity," Engelage said.

Detroit didn't take a goalie with any of its five picks in this year's draft, but assistant general manager Jim Nill spoke glowingly about the six-foot-five, 192-pound Engelage before the draft.

"He came out of nowhere," Nill said of Windsor's 13th round pick in 2005.

"He still has to work on some things, but for a big man he moves well for his size. Big goalies that move well are hard to find."

Engelage assumed Windsor's No. 1 goaltending job when Anthony Guadagnolo was dealt early last year and went on to post a 12-24-0-3 record with a 4.35 goals-against average and a .880 save percentage on a very young Windsor team.

DIFFICULT SEASON

"He played well considering how tough a year it was," Nill said. "A lot of nights, he was on his own out there."

Engelage is the youngest of three goalies invited to Detroit's camp along with 20-year-old Real Cyr, who played for Prince George in the Western Hockey League, and 20-year-old Pier-Olivier Pelletier, who was a former second-round NHL pick by Phoenix and played for Drummondville in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

"That's how my whole hockey career has gone," Engelage said. "The whole time it's been to show people I can play."

While a pro contract won't come out of this camp, the fact Engelage plays in Windsor will give the Red Wings a chance to follow him closely next season.

Nill usually takes in a handful of games at Windsor Arena during the season.

"They're just 10 minutes away," Engelage said. "I think it helps that they can just pop over and catch a game more than anywhere else."

jparker@thestar.canwest.com or 519-255-5777 ext. 413

Red Wings lose Lang, Bertuzzi, Calder

2007-07-02T17:42:00.000-07:00

All courtesy TSN

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed centre Robert Lang to a two-year deal. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The 36-year-old appeared in 81 games for the Detroit Red Wings in 2006-07, collecting 19 goals, 52 points and 66 penalty minutes in his second full season in Motown.

''Robert gives us another offensive weapon at the center position,'' said general manager Dale Tallon. ''He is a right hand shot who will be able to help us on our power play. He has played with Martin Havlat in international competition and they have a very good chemistry together. He definitely gives us more strength up the middle.''

The Czech Republic native was selected by Los Angeles in the 1990 entry draft and played for four seasons with the Kings.

He then played five seasons in Pittsburgh, scoring a career-high 32 goals and 80 points in 2000-01.

In 2002, the Washington Capitals signed Lang to a five-year deal worth $25 million. He played in Washington for almost two seasons before being traded to the Red Wings in February of 2004.

Lang has played in 799 regular season games over his 13-year career, posting 213 goals, 581 points and 308 penalty minutes.

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Todd Bertuzzi is re-uniting with Anaheim Ducks general manager Brian Burke, signing a two-year, $8-million deal with the Ducks.

Bertuzzi, 32, played in only 15 regular season games with the Florida Panthers and Detroit Red Wings last season because of a herniated disk in his back.

The 6-foot-3, 245-pound winger tallied 11 points in the regular season before adding four points in eight playoff games.

Bertuzzi scored a career-high 97 points with the Vancouver Canucks in 2002-2003, where Burke was the general manager, but has been unable to match that production since.

********************************************************************************

Looking to add some much-needed scoring punch, the Los Angeles Kings today signed forwards Ladislav Nagy, Michal Handzus and Kyle Calder.

Calder, 28, appeared in 78 games with the Red Wings and Flyers last season and had totals of 14 goals and 21 assists.

Detroit inks Dearborn native Rafalski

2007-07-01T18:45:00.001-07:00

Canadian Press

DETROIT (AP) - Defenseman Brian Rafalski agreed to a five-year, $30-million deal with the Detroit Red Wings on Sunday, shortly after defenseman Mathieu Schneider chose to leave the team in free agency.

Rafalski scored eight goals and had 55 points last season for the New Jersey Devils. He has 44 career goals and 311 points in seven NHL seasons, all in New Jersey.

The 5-foot-10, 195-pound defenseman was born in Dearborn, just outside of Detroit, and turns 34 in September.

Schneider signed a two-year deal worth $11.25 million with the defending Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks. The 18-year veteran will make $5.5 million this season and $5.75 million the following year. He had 11 goals and 52 points last season for the Red Wings.

Detroit general manager Ken Holland expected to lose Schneider in free agency.

"We would love to have him back, but I expect him to hit the market and I don't blame him," Holland said Saturday night. "He's 38 years old, so he doesn't have a lot of chances to really take advantage of free agency."

Holland was cautiously optimistic on the eve of NHL free agency that he and Dominik Hasek would agree to contract terms to bring the star goaltender back. The six-time Vezina Trophy winner and two-time MVP informed the Red Wings several weeks ago that he wanted to play in Detroit again.

The Red Wings also want to re-sign forward Todd Bertuzzi, if he is willing to return with a shorter-term contract.

Wings lose Schneider to Cup champs

2007-07-01T12:16:00.000-07:00

TSN.ca Staff

The Anaheim Ducks have signed defenceman Mathieu Schneider to a two-year deal paying him $5.5 million and $5.75 million.

Schneider played his last four seasons in Detroit and appeared in 68 games last season, recording 11 goals, 41 assists and 66 penalty minutes.

The veteran blueliner has played in 1,132 regular-season games over his 17-year career for six different teams. The two-time All-Star has recorded 200 goals and 463 assists in his career, while collecting 1,115 penalty minutes.

He was originally drafted in the third round, 44th overall, in the 1987 entry draft by the Montreal Canadiens.

After spending seven seasons in Montreal (and helping lead the team to a Stanley Cup in 1993), he was traded to the New York Islanders along with Kirk Muller and Craig Darby for Pierre Turgeon and Vladimir Malakhov in 1995.

In 1995-96, he was packaged with Wendel Clark and D.J. Smith to the Toronto Maple Leafs for Darby Hendrickson, Sean Haggerty and Kenny Jonsson. After three seasons in Toronto, Schneider was dealt to the New York Rangers for Alexander Karpovtsev and fourth-round pick in the 1999 entry draft.

In 2000, he signed as an unrestricted free agent with the Los Angeles Kings, where he played for almost three seasons. He was traded to the Red Wings in 2003 for Sean Avery, Maxim Kuznetsov, a 2003 first-round draft pick and a 2004 second-round draft pick.

Schneider has represented the United States at the World Hockey Championship in 1996 and played for Team USA at the Olympics in 1998 and 2006.

IHL hires two new employees

2007-06-29T12:14:00.000-07:00

The International Hockey League announced today two new staff members who will be joining the League Office. Jennifer Costie has been named Director of Business Operations and Amy Stump has been named Director of Media Relations.

“It is my extreme pleasure to welcome Jennifer Costie and Amy Stump to the IHL league office,” stated Paul L. Pickard, IHL President-CEO-Commissioner. “They both have experience and knowledge that will help them succeed in their new positions. I wish them both nothing but the best with their tenures at the IHL.”

Costie, 32, joins the IHL staff after spending the last six years assisting with the operations of Wings Stadium in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She was responsible for helping the Vice President-General Manager manage the day-to-day operations of the facility. Her experience in accounting and client service at Wings Stadium in addition to her previous experience as a billing specialist for Battle Creek Health System gives her the background to be successful in her new position. She received her degree in Accounting from Kellogg Community College in 2003. At the IHL, Costie will be responsible for the accounting as well as other business operations.

Stump, 22, joins the IHL staff after graduating this spring with a degree in Organizational Communication from Western Michigan University. She spent the 2006-07 season with the Kalamazoo Wings hockey club as a public relations intern. She was responsible for media relations, statistics, writing press releases and feature stories, press box management, managing post game interviews and contributions to the media guide. At the IHL, Stump will be responsible for all communications and serve as the liaison between the league and media outlets. She will maintain the IHL website and serve as the league administrator for hockey statistics. She also will assist in the league’s marketing efforts as well as assist the league President-CEO-Commissioner with the overall general business operations of the IHL.

Both Costie and Stump will begin their new duties on July 2. They are replacing former IHL employees Teppei Sakuma and John Odom who chose not to relocate to Michigan with the league office that was previously located in Lake St. Louis, Mo.

Kerr retained as Flint's head coach

2007-06-28T05:03:00.000-07:00

Kevin Kerr has been named the Flint Generals' head coach for the 2007-2008 season. Peter South has also been signed as assistant coach.

The Flint Journal has more HERE.

K-Zoo's Bootland to serve at charity dinner

2007-06-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced that forward Nick Bootland and Kalamazoo’s favorite mascot, Slappy, will be celebrity participants during the Race For the Kids Sake CLF Dinner this Friday at Wings Stadium.

Bootland will join several drivers from the Kalamazoo and Galesburg Speedways as celebrity servers during the fundraising dinner that will begin at 7 p.m. Doors will open to the public at 6 p.m. There will also be games and activities throughout the night.

The CLF Dinner, which is its fifth year, is organized by the Race For Kids Sake, an association developed to raise money to fight Leukemia here in Michigan. This will be the third year that the dinner is held at Wings Stadium.

Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan is a statewide organization that provides information, financial assistance, and emotional support to families of adults and children affected by leukemia, lymphoma, and other related blood disorders. Until there is a cure, CLF is here to help families overcome the challenges these conditions present.

For more information about the Children’s Leukemia Foundation log onto
www.raceforkidssake.com or www.leukemiamichigan.org.

Tickets for the Race for Kids Sake Children’s Leukemia Foundation Dinner at Wings Stadium are $25 for adults and are available at the Wings Stadium ticket office or by calling (269) 720-9072. Race for Kids Sake is also offering discounts on children 12 and under.

IHL Dispersal Draft results

2007-06-27T18:41:00.000-07:00

The International Hockey League conducted a dispersal draft on Wednesday to disperse players from the 2006-07 final rosters of the Chicago Hounds, Elmira Jackals, Quad City Mallards and Rockford IceHogs. Those four member clubs will not participate in the 2007-08 IHL season.

The order in which current member clubs selected players was based on their winning percentage in the final standings of the 2006-07 season, with lowest-ranked teams choosing first. By choosing a player in the dispersal draft, IHL teams have the rights to the selected player for the 2007-08 season.

ROUND ONE
(Team) (Player)
Bloomington, Don Parsons (F), Quad City
Port Huron, Marty Magers (G), Chicago
Flint, Steve MacIntyre (D), Quad City
Kalamazoo, Chris Busby (D), Chicago
Muskegon, Todd Grant (LW), Chicago
Fort Wayne, Sergei Durdin (D), Quad City

ROUND TWO
Bloomington, Jason Tapp (G), Quad City
Port Huron, Chris Gehrke (D), Chicago
Flint, Frederic Cloutier (G), Rockford
Kalamazoo, Chris Mann (D), Quad City
Muskegon, Mark Nebus (F), Chicago
Fort Wayne, Justin Chwedoruk (F), Quad City

ROUND THREE
Bloomington, Tim Wedderburn (D), Elmira
Port Huron, Mike Letizia (D), Rockford
Flint, Brent Currie (D), Quad City
Kalamazoo, Joel Rechlicz (RW), Chicago
Muskegon, Matt Johnson (F), Chicago
Fort Wayne, Brett Pilkington (F), Quad City

ROUND FOUR
Bloomington, Jason Ralph (F), Rockford
Port Huron, Robert Chappell (D), Elmira
Flint, Nathan Lutz (D), Rockford
Kalamazoo, Jordan Hart (D), Chicago
Muskegon, Matt Amado (C), Chicago
Fort Wayne, Jesse Bennefield (RW), Rockford

ROUND FIVE
Bloomington, B.J. Radovich (C), Chicago
Port Huron, David Morelli (F), Elmira
Flint, Paul Brown (RW), Rockford
Kalamazoo, Tim Plett (F), Chicago
Muskegon, Sean Starke (F), Quad City
Fort Wayne, Anthony Pototschnik (F), Quad City

ROUND SIX
Bloomington, Jake Moreland (G), Rockford
Port Huron, Bryce Cockburn (RW), Rockford
Flint, Luke Stauffacher (F), Quad City
Kalamazoo, Maris Ziedins (C), Chicago
Muskegon, Bruce Watson (LW), Rockford
Fort Wayne, Mike Sgroi (LW), Elmira

ROUND SEVEN
Bloomington, Matt Radoslovich (F), Quad City
Port Huron, Drew Otten (F), Chicago
Flint, Dan Veenema (D), Elmira
Kalamazoo, Matt Gens (D), Rockford
Muskegon, Corey Hessler (D), Rockford
Fort Wayne, Travis Granbois (F), Quad City

ROUND EIGHT
Bloomington, Mike Oliveira (C), Elmira
Port Huron, Dan Boeser (D), Rockford
Flint, Luke Fritshaw (D), Rockford
Kalamazoo, Preston Mizzi (C), Rockford
Muskegon, Benoit Doucet (LW), Rockford
Fort Wayne, Erik Anderson (C), Elmira

ROUND NINE
Bloomington, Andrei Lupandin (D), Elmira
Port Huron, Darryl McArthur (D), Chicago
Flint, Jason Notermann (LW), Rockford
Kalamazoo, Brad Smith (G), Quad City
Muskegon, Jami Yoder (D), Quad City
Fort Wayne, Mike Kautz (D), Chicago

ROUND TEN
Bloomington, Chad Loikets (D), Rockford
Port Huron, Mike Brolsma (C), Quad City
Flint, Curtis Tidball (RW), Elmira
Kalamazoo, Rod Aldoff (D), Chicago
Muskegon, Kelly Miller (C), Chicago
Fort Wayne, Will McMahon (F), Quad City

ROUND ELEVEN
Bloomington, Josh Elzinga (D), Chicago
Port Huron, Scott Seney (C), Chicago
Flint, Zach Sikich (G), Elmira
Kalamazoo, Nicolas Corbeil (C), Rockford
Muskegon, Thomas Zabkowicz (D), Chicago
Fort Wayne, Shawn Degagne (G), Elmira

ROUND TWELVE
Bloomington, Patrick Nadeau (RW), Quad City
Port Huron, Dave Lemanowicz (G), Chicago
Flint, T.J. Reynolds (D), Elmira
Kalamazoo, Andrew Leach (F), Elmira
Muskegon, Kaleb Betts (F), Rockford
Fort Wayne, Bobby Kukulka (RW), Elmira

ROUND THIRTEEN
Bloomington, Mike Doyle (LW), Rockford
Port Huron, Kevin Ulanski (F), Rockford
Flint, Pass
Kalamazoo, Dale Lupul (D), Quad City
Muskegon, Derek Miller (D), Quad City
Fort Wayne, Frank Littlejohn (RW), Elmira

ROUND FOURTEEN
Bloomington, Noah Katz (C), Elmira
Port Huron, Chad Woollard (F), Quad City
Flint, Pass
Kalamazoo, Blake Stewart (LW), Quad City
Muskegon, Scott Drevitch (D), Elmira
Fort Wayne, Chaz Johnson (RW), Rockford

ROUND FIFTEEN
Bloomington, Eric Lind (D), Elmira
Port Huron, Marc Lefebvre (LW), Elmira
Flint ---
Kalamazoo ---
Muskegon ---
Fort Wayne ---

Red Wings take defenseman Smith at No. 27

2007-06-23T14:03:00.000-07:00

The annual NHL Entry Draft has concluded in Columbus and the Detroit Red Wings had five picks in the draft.

First Round, 27th overall - Brendan Smith

Defenseman, St. Michael's Buzzers (OPJHL) - 6-0, 170 lbs.

*Committed to the University of Wisconsin for this fall and was also the Toronto St. Michael's Majors' first-round pick in the 2005 OHL Priority Selection, but did not report, instead choosing to keep his NCAA eligibility.

Third Round, 88th overall - Joakim Andersson

Center, Frolunda Jr. (Sweden) - 6-2, 198 lbs.

Fifth Round, 148th overall - Randy Cameron

Center, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) - 5-11, 175 lbs.

Sixth Round, 178th overall - Zack Torquato

Center, Erie Otters (OHL) - 6-0, 195 lbs.

*Former first-round pick of the Saginaw Spirit in 2005.

Seventh Round, 208th overall - Bryan Rufenach

Defenseman, Lindsay Muskies (OPJHL) - 5-11, 184 lbs.

*Committed to Clarkson University for this fall.

Detroit's second-round pick, 58th overall, went to Florida as part of the Todd Bertuzzi deadline deal from this past February. Their fourth-rounder, 118th overall, is Pittsburgh's from the Cory Cross deadline trade in 2006.

K-Wings sign leadership and experience

2007-06-21T07:59:00.001-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings have signed forwards Nick Bootland and Tyler Willis.

Bootland will return to Kalamazoo for his fourth season with the K-Wings. The team captain for the past two seasons isn’t only a vocal leader, he also leads by example. The forward produced 85 points (40 goals, 45 assists) a season ago and led all K-Wing players in game-winning goals with nine. He continued his scoring dominance in last year’s United Hockey League playoffs contributing 22 points (12 goals, 10 assists) and helped the K-Wings reach the Colonial Cup Finals for the second consecutive season.

“We (K-Wings) need to strengthen our team with character guys that know how to win and no one fits that mold better than Nick (Bootland),” said Wings' general manager Wade Welsh. “In his time in Kalamazoo , Bootland has exemplified what it takes to be a member of the K-Wings and we are thrilled to be able to resign him.”

Last season, Bootland was rewarded by making his third straight appearance to the UHL All-Star Classic, his second appearance as a member of the K-Wings. For the second consecutive season, Bootland was voted by the fans to start in the All-Star Classic.

Bootland’s resume continued to get decorated during the postseason, as the native of Shelbourne, Ontario earned the K-Wings’ Pepsi Most Sportsmanship Award and was named to the league’s Second Team.

Two seasons ago, Bootland was a vital in bringing Kalamazoo its first professional hockey championship in 26 years. The veteran earned the UHL’s Most Valuable Player Award in the playoffs by registering 16 points (10 goals, six assists) in just 13 contests.

Bootland played junior hockey for the Guelph Storm in the Ontario Hockey League and was a member of the Storms’ championship team in 1998. An impact player wherever he has laced up his skates, Bootland was awarded the Hershey Bears’ Unsung Hero Award during the 1999-2000 season and also received both the Player of the Year and Fan Favorite Award during his two seasons with Cincinnati Cyclones (ECHL). The veteran forward was selected by the Dallas Stars in the ninth round of the 1996 NHL Entry Draft.

With the addition of Willis, the K-Wings have already solidified two-thirds of last season’s top scoring line and are bringing back one of the most popular players in team history.

The 2007-08 season will be the tenth in Willis’ professional career and his fifth in Kalamazoo. Whether it be through physical play or scoring, Willis has been a spark plug for the K-Wings. For four straight seasons (2003-present), the fans voted Willis the team’s WLKM Most Popular Player.

“Willis is a hard-working player that does what it takes to win games,” said Welsh. “Signing Tyler adds a player not only with championship experience, but one who knows how to get the most out of the other players around him.”

In his tenure with the K-Wings, the former eighth-round draft pick of the Vancouver Canucks (1995 NHL Entry Draft) has played in 246 games, recorded 182 points (54 goals, 127 assists) and amassed 1,110 minutes in penalties. Willis’ best season as a K-Wing was during the 2005-06 season, when he set personal career highs in goals (20), assists (45) and points (65).

Willis has had success at every level of professional hockey he has played including the AHL. Willis’ best year in the AHL was back in the 98-99 season when he tallied 18 points on eight goals and 10 assists, accumulating 227 minutes in penalties.

UHL becomes International Hockey League

2007-06-21T05:23:00.000-07:00

In a live announcement broadcast via United Hockey League corporate partner B2 Networks on Wednesday at the league’s annual meeting in Las Vegas, the UHL announced that it is immediately changing its name to the International Hockey League (IHL).

Paul Pickard has been named the first President/CEO of the new IHL.

The IHL will consist of six teams in its inaugural season. The Bloomington PrairieThunder, the Flint Generals, the Fort Wayne Komets, the Kalamazoo Wings and the Muskegon Fury join the league after being member clubs of the UHL during the 2006-07 season.

The sixth IHL team will be the Port Huron Icehawks based in Port Huron. New governors Frank Kinney and Robert Lahiff will be announcing more details about their hockey club in the near future. The Generals also had a recent ownership change as the transition from the former owners to Bob Perani was approved by the league.

“I am excited to announce the new IHL, and I am excited to lead the new era of this league,” stated Pickard. “One of the key focuses of the IHL Board of Governors and the league office will be to make on- and off-ice changes for the 2007-08 season that will create a better experience for the fans. At the top of the list, we are going to put an emphasis on strong ownership so that the fans can count on our member clubs being a long-term part of the IHL and on making the on-ice product much more physical and exciting.”

The IHL also announced its Executive Committee for the 2007-08 season. The Chairman of the Board of Governors will be Michael Franke of Fort Wayne and the Vice Chairman will be Bob Perani of Flint.

Below is other information that was given during the live broadcast and/or transpired during the annual meeting:

- The IHL office will be located in Rochester and will consist of four employees, league counsel and the president/CEO. During the summer, the UHL office in Lake St. Louis, Mo., will close and transition to the new office in Michigan. Existing UHL employees have been given the opportunity to relocate to the new league office.
- The IHL league website is being launched this evening at http://www.ihl-hockey.com/.
- The new logo for the league was unveiled during the broadcast.
- The 76-game 2007-08 season will take place between October 19, 2007 and April 6, 2008.
- A deal was signed with B2 Networks to broadcast all IHL games via broadband for the next three seasons.

**************************************

Paul L. Pickard has been named President/CEO of the new International Hockey League. He immediately begins his duties of running the six-team league whose member clubs were formerly in the United Hockey League.

“I am honored to have been chosen to the lead the IHL and usher in a new era of professional minor league hockey,” stated Pickard. “The IHL model is to have strong ownership of member clubs in an isolated geographical area so that we can provide intense and exciting rivalries and family affordable entertainment. There will be special focus to make our on-ice product much more physical without the goon tactics associated with the old IHL.”

Pickard’s strong background in facility management and professional hockey makes him an ideal person to lead the new IHL. Pickard was recently promoted to the President of the Stadium Management Corporation after serving as Vice President and General Manager of the Wings Stadium Complex and the Kalamazoo Wings from 1999-2007.

Pickard served as the Chairman of the United Hockey League Board of Governors for the past two seasons. He twice earned awards as UHL Governor of the Year (2004-05, 2005-06) and UHL General Manager of the Year (2003-04, 2006-07). The K-Wings won the Colonial Cup as league champion for the 2005-06 season. In addition, he has been a head coach in the NAHL and the ECHL, an assistant coach in the AHL and a player in the old IHL.

Pickard and his wife, Brenda, have been married 24 years and have two boys, Bryon and Brad, as well as three grandchildren, Caitlin, Gavin and Zoe.

**************************************

The International Hockey League announced today new rules that will be in effect for the 2007-08 season.

The rule changes are as follows:

- The instigator penalty has been eliminated except during the final five minutes of a game.
- The game lineup has been increased to 17 skaters and 2 goaltenders.
- In regards to secondary altercations, players will receive a 10-minute misconduct as opposed to a game misconduct.
- If a dive and hook occur on the same play, only one penalty is to be called. Diving takes precedence over hooking in that situation.
- Officials will have tighter standards in the neutral zone and a looser standard in the attacking zone to promote battles in the corners and in front of the net.
- With a tied score at the end of regulation, there will be a 5 minute 4 vs. 4 sudden-death period. If the score remains tied after the overtime period, a three-skater shootout will take place (advancing to sudden-death if needed). There will be no resurfacing of the ice before the shootout.

Generals reveal new ownership group

2007-06-21T04:38:00.000-07:00

The new ownership group for the Flint Generals:

Bob Perani - Owner and President of Perani's Hockey World, the world's largest distributor of hockey equipment.
Travis Prince - Flint-area businessman. Owner of AutoDealers Auction in Mt. Morris and many other business interests.
Jeremy Piper - Flint-area attorney
Ron Sanko - Owner of ProServices, Windsor, Ontario.
Chuck Glasscock - Vice-President, Perani's Hockey World.
Ron Mitchell - Former owner/operator - Mitchell's Foods in Flint, Mt. Morris, Davison and Holly. Also currently the assistant coach of the Davison High School varsity hockey team.
Kris Draper - Detroit Red Wings center.

An eighth member, a silent partner, doesn't wish to be identified.

Ireland out as Grand Rapids bench boss

2007-06-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

Greg Ireland, the Grand Rapids Griffins’ head coach since 2005 and a member of their coaching staff since 2003, will not return for the final year of his contract in 2007-08.

The Griffins announced the decision today in conjunction with the Detroit Red Wings, who have acquired responsibility for Grand Rapids’ coaches under the teams’ new affiliation agreement.

Elevated from assistant coach on Feb. 10, 2005, Ireland compiled a cumulative record of 109-65-8-10 (.615), along with a playoff mark of 11-12 (.478), in his two and a half seasons as head coach.

“We are very appreciative of the job that Greg did for us as both a head coach and an assistant over the last four seasons,” said Griffins general manager Bob McNamara. “He was named head coach under tough circumstances and he helped us reach the conference finals in 2006 and return to the playoffs this past season. Greg assisted in the development of many of the young players now with the Red Wings, and he was a tremendous representative of the Griffins throughout the West Michigan community. We are thankful for all he’s done for our organization.”

Assistant coach Jim Paek, who joined the Griffins’ staff in 2005, will return this fall for his third season behind the bench.

The Red Wings and Griffins have begun the process of identifying candidates for Grand Rapids’ seventh head coach in 12 seasons. No timetable for the hiring has been established.

Fury to hold free agent camp in September

2007-06-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

For the first time ever in their nearly 16 years of operations as a member club of the United Hockey League, the UHL’s all-time top winning team, the Muskegon Fury, will conduct a special free agent camp in Muskegon.

The Fury’s first-ever free agent camp has been scheduled from Friday, Sept. 21 through Sunday, Sept. 23.

All free agent camp sessions will be held at the Fury’s hockey home of the L.C. Walker Sports Arena, located at 470 West Western Avenue in downtown Muskegon.

The free agent camp on-ice times are set for Friday, Sept. 21 from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm; Saturday, Sept. 22 from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm and Sunday, Sept. 23 from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm.

The cost of the Fury free agent camp is $275 and includes on-ice insurance. Hotel rooms will be available at a special discounted rate.

Muskegon head coach Bruce Ramsay will be at the reins of the camp. It will be through his evaluations that as many as five players will be offered invitations to attend the Fury’s main camp Oct. 1, signaling the launching of the 2007-2008 campaign.

For more information on this camp, contact Ramsay at (231) 726-3879 ext. 233 or by email at bruceramsay@walkerarena.com.

Lidstrom and Datsyuk win NHL awards

2007-06-15T05:05:00.000-07:00

TORONTO (CP) - Nicklas Lidstrom, meet Ray Bourque.

Lidstrom captured yet another Norris Trophy as the NHL's top defenceman Wednesday night, becoming the first five-time career winner since Bourque, the great Boston Bruins blueliner.

''It feels a bit unbelievable,'' said Lidstrom. ''Ray was a guy I looked up to coming into the league. He was a great player at both ends of the ice. . I really appreciated watching him play. To be tied with him is just an unbelievable feeling.''

Lidstrom, who replaced the retired Steve Yzerman as Detroit Red Wings captain this past season and was also named to the NHL's First All-Star Team, beat out the stellar Anaheim Ducks duo of Scott Niedermayer and Chris Pronger - both former winners - for this year's award in voting by selected members of the Professional Hockey Writers' Association.

''I don't take it for granted,'' said Lidstrom, who won with 1,217 points in voting, ahead of Niedermayer's 1,024. Pronger was third with 608.

''I don't know what else you say,'' said Niedermayer. ''He's been recognized a number of times for good reason, because he's a very, very good defenceman. Smart player, he's got great skills, a good leader. He is everything that you need to be to be in his situation.

''Right now it's tough to say there's anybody better.''

Lidstrom, who has won the award five of the past six seasons, tied for the league lead among defencemen with a plus-40 rating and ranked third among all players in ice time per game at 27:29. He had 62 points (13-49), fifth among NHL defencemen.

Niedermayer, who won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in Anaheim's Cup triumph, won the award in 2004. He led all NHL defencemen in scoring this season with 69 points. Pronger missed 16 games but still ended up with 59 points.

Dan Boyle of the Tampa Bay Lightning was fourth in voting with 219 points, followed in fifth by Kimmo Timonen of the Nashville Predators at 144.

Red Wings star forward Pavel Datsyuk was recognized for his sportsmanship by becoming a back-to-back winner of the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy.

Datsyuk, who didn't attend the NHL Awards show in Toronto, bested Colorado's Joe Sakic and Tampa Bay's Martin St. Louis for the player judged to have exhibited superior sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of skill.

Detroit general manager Ken Holland accepted the award on Datsyuk's behalf.

"Pavel couldn't be here tonight," Holland said. "Pavel asked me to thank his coaching staff and his teammates for helping (him) win this award."

Datsyuk produced 87 points in 79 regular-season games while serving only 20 minutes in penalties. He received 705 points, edging St. Louis' 513 and Sakic's 354.

Lidstrom photo courtesy Aaron Harris/Associated Press

Chelios to return to Detroit in 2007-2008

2007-06-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

DETROIT (CP) - The NHL's oldest player has at least one more season left in him.

Defenseman Chris Chelios and the Detroit Red Wings agreed on a one-year contract Tuesday. It will be the 24th NHL season for the 45-year-old Chelios, who had 11 assists and a plus-11 rating in 71 games for the Red Wings last season.

Chelios led Detroit defensemen with a plus-7 rating during the team's run to the Western Conference final.

"Chris is coming off another outstanding season and was one of the best defencemen on any team through three rounds of the Stanley Cup playoffs," Wings GM Ken Holland said. "He has taken conditioning to a new level and has set the standard for how today's professional athlete trains year-round in order to compete at an elite level. In addition to his high level of play, Chris's experience and leadership are second to none."

Chelios won Stanley Cups with Montreal in 1986 and Detroit in 2002 and is a three-time winner of the Norris Trophy.

In 1,547 career regular-season games for the Canadiens, Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks, Chelios has 182 goals and 936 points. Chelios has 31 goals and 113 assists for 144 points in 246 career playoff games.

Pickard, Welsh promoted in K-Zoo

2007-06-12T08:14:00.000-07:00

William D. Johnston, president and chairman of the Greenleaf Companies, is pleased to announce that Paul Pickard has been promoted to president of Stadium Management Corporation.

Pickard had previously been the general manager of the Kalamazoo Wings and vice president-general manager of the Wings Stadium facility.

Wade Welsh, previously assistant general manager, will assume the general manager duties of the K-Wings.

As previously announced by the United Hockey League, Pickard will serve as acting president/CEO/commissioner of the league and will administer all league functions until a new commissioner is named.

A structured sale of Stadium Management Corporation to Greenleaf Holdings, L.L.C., now known as Catalyst Development Co., L.L.C., was entered into in 2005. Under the sale agreement, majority ownership of Stadium Management Corporation will be transferred from the estate of Ray T. Parfet, Jr. to Catalyst Development Co., L.L.C. in July 2007.

Pickard will focus his talent and experience in strengthening a stable and exciting UHL, while also bringing new and exciting entertainment venues to an ever improving Wings Stadium facility.

As a part of the family of Greenleaf Companies, Pickard will also identify ways to integrate Greenleaf Hospitality Group’s offerings into the stadium venues.

June 7, 1997 - remember?

2007-06-07T09:07:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago tonight...

Red Wings ink prospects Ritola and Ryno

2007-06-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

The Detroit Red Wings signed prospects Mattias Ritola, a center, and Johan Ryno, a right wing, to three-year entry-level contracts Friday.

Both players were drafted by Detroit in 2005 - Ritola in the fourth round (103rd overall) and Ryno in the fifth round (137th overall).

“Mattias and Johan are two highly-skilled young players,” said Detroit assistant general manager Jim Nill. “They will attend our training camp this fall as a part of their continuing development towards the goal of playing for the Red Wings in the NHL."

Ryno, who turns 21 June 5, played 39 games in the Swedish Elite League this season, his first in that circuit, tallying five goals and 11 points. Ritola, 20, played 26 games in the Swedish First Division (one level below the Elite League), tallying two goals and six points.

2007-05-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

Red Wings training camp tix on sale Saturday

2007-05-31T05:01:00.000-07:00

If the third time is the charm, then the tenth time must signify a certain degree of intransience.

That decade of durability is what will be celebrated at the 2007 Detroit Red Wings Training Camp, set for Sept. 13-18 at Centre ICE arena in Traverse City. The 10th anniversary gets underway in earnest this Saturday, when camp tickets are offered for public sale from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. at Centre ICE.

The 10-year yardstick has offered camp officials a chance to reflect on the bigger-picture success of the event, which has traveled the path from conception to annual phenomenon.

“When we started, did we think we’d still be here 10 years later?,” mused Training Camp director Pete Correia. “Oh my gosh, no. Absolutely not. Why would we? We were just happy to pull off that first camp, but the whole thing has really developed into something that the community has really accepted into the local culture.”

According to Correia, the reason that Red Wings players and staff return to the region each fall to kick off another season is simple: It’s a great place to be.

“They used to do it right at Joe Louis Arena – guys would drive to practice, work out, and go home,” Correia explained. “Up here, they have a chance to get away and bond a little bit. It sounds simple, but they seem to think it’s pretty important. They love the area – the golfing, the fishing, the water - just the atmosphere.”

In addition to the volunteers who staff the events, the way the players are treated up north that adds an extra human element to the equation.

“I think the people up here just let them breathe a little, allow them to be themselves and enjoy their time here,” Correia surmised. “From early on, I have heard that from the players themselves. For example, we have a barricade set up around the autograph area outside Centre ICE, and our fans are very respectful of that barrier. Up here, it’s a barricade. Downstate, it’s just a hurdle.”

This year’s camp will feature as many as 60 players, which will be divided into three teams. The first three days of camp will consist of intrasquad games and on-ice workouts from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Tickets for those sessions are $15 each. On Sept. 17, the top players compete in the annual Red & White Game at 6 p.m. ($25), and a unique affair caps the camp on Sept. 18: a 4-on-4 intrasquad game at 5 p.m. Tickets for the open-ice affair are $10, which includes a hot dog and soda.

“We certainly haven’t got it all figured out by any stretch – there are always challenges to putting on a first-class camp,” Correia said. “But we have such a great group of local volunteers who are organized, disciplined, dedicated and professional - and that resonates with the team, no question about it. They keep coming back for a reason, and we’d like to keep it that way.”

2007 Detroit Red Wings Training Camp Schedule

Thursday, Sept. 13
Physicals, Golf Outing (1:30 p.m. at GT Resort), Dinner

Friday, Sept. 14
Intrasquad game, On-ice workouts, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. ($15)

Saturday, Sept. 15
Intrasquad game, On-ice workouts, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. ($15)

Sunday, Sept. 16
Intrasquad game, On-ice workouts, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. ($15)

Monday, Sept. 17
Red & White Game, 6 p.m. ($25)

Tuesday, Sept. 18
Four-on-Four Game, 5 p.m. ($10 includes hot dog & soda)

TICKETS: On sale Saturday, June 2 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Centre ICE

Reeds stays on as Kalamazoo bench boss

2007-05-29T10:55:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Wings announced a two-year contract extension for director of hockey operations and head coach Mark Reeds today.

Reeds just concluded his fourth season as head coach of the K-Wings. Under Reeds’ tutelage, Kalamazoo has made the playoffs in each of his seasons as the franchise bench boss, including two consecutive trips to the Colonial Cup finals. Two seasons ago, Reeds and the K-Wings captured the franchise's first championship in 26 years and first in the UHL.

“Mark is one of the finest coaches in minor league hockey,” said Kalamazoo GM Paul Pickard. “Not only does he have a great hockey mind, he knows how to extract the most out of his players.”

Reeds has produced winning teams everywhere he has coached and that was exemplified by capturing the Colonial Cup last May. The only man to be selected UHL Coach of the Year on more than one occasion (three times: 2001-2002, 2003-2004, 2004-2005), Reeds ranks third on the leagues all-time coaching win list.

Under Reeds’ guidance, the K-Wings have become a perennial power. Reeds has been behind the bench for many of the franchise’s grandest moments including last season, where the K-Wings captured their first division title and Tarry Cup.

Prior to coming to Kalamazoo, Reeds honed his winning coaching style as assistant coach of the Peoria Rivermen (IHL). After four seasons as an assistant coach, he was named head coach of the Rivermen when they joined the ECHL. While the bench boss of the Rivermen, Reeds guided Peoria to the Kelly Cup semifinals in 1996-97 and a Northwest Division and Northern Conference title in 1997-98. From 1996-98, Reeds compiled more wins than any other coach in the ECHL.

Following his tenure in Peoria, Reeds became the head coach of the Missouri River Otters and right away established the standard for an expansion franchise. The River Otters are still one of three expansion teams in UHL history to average 40 wins in their first three seasons.

Reeds’ tenacity and commitment behind the bench started back during his playing career. Reeds laced up his skates for 12 professional seasons including eight in the National Hockey League. He was a fifth-round (86th overall) selection of the St. Louis Blues in the 1979 NHL Entry Draft. Before turning pro, Reeds found success as an amateur, as he was a three-time Ontario Hockey League champion with the Peterborough Petes (1976-79), and a three-time Memorial Cup finalist, which includes the 1979 Memorial Cup championship.

In his first season as a professional, Reeds was a member of the Salt Lake Golden Eagles, winning the Central Hockey League Adams Cup championship in 1980. From there, he played six seasons with the Blues and two with the Hartford Whalers.

Rockford leaves UHL as champions

2007-05-25T11:41:00.000-07:00

Game 1 - at Rockford 3, Kalamazoo 2 (OT)
Game 2 - at Rockford 6, Kalamazoo 1
Game 3 - at Kalamazoo 3, Rockford 0
Game 4 - at Kalamazoo 6, Rockford 5
Game 5 - at Rockford 6, Kalamazoo 1
Game 6 - at Kalamazoo 6, Rockford 2
Game 7 - at Rockford 3, Kalamazoo 1
(Rockford wins series, 4-3)

Rockford, Ill.- A storybook season came to a storybook end.

The Rockford IceHogs clinched its first ever Colonial Cup championship with a 3-1 Game Seven Colonial Cup finals win over the Kalamazoo Wings in front of a franchise postseason record 6,236 at the Rockford MetroCentre.

The IceHogs won the championship series 4-games-to-3.

The home team won all seven games in the finals and this one went down to the wire. Rockford grabbed the 1-0 lead early in the first period while shorthanded. Center Kevin Ulanski picked off a Kalamazoo pass and broke over the Wings line on a 2-on-2 breakaway. Ulanski pulled in the high-slot and beat Ryan Nie 2:47 in to give Rockford the 1-0 lead.

Kalamazoo battled back and tied the score at 1-1. Wings wingman Nick Bootland was camped out in front of the Rockford net while Kalamazoo was on the power play and he tipped in a Tyler Willis pass past Frederic Cloutier for his 12th postseason goal at 9:08.

The tie game was broken in the second period when Hogs winger Jason Notermann would notch the eventual game-winning goal. Notermann broke into the Wings zone and fired a shot in on Nie. Nie made the initial save, but Notermann was there to clean up the garbage and knocked in his fifth postseason goal at 6:11 to give the IceHogs a 2-1 lead. Notermann also netted the game-winning goal in the IceHogs semifinals clincher.

The game was tight the rest of the way and wasn't iced until late in the contest. Up by just a goal and with the Wings pressing to tie the game, winger Nicolas Corbeil finished off Kalamazoo when he blasted home his ninth postseason marker at 18:27. Corbeil's goal sent the MetroCentre crowd into a fury and the Hogs road out the 3-1 win and its first ever UHL championship.

Cloutier made 24 saves in the win and tied a UHL postseason record with his 12th win. Ulanski was named the Colonial Cup postseason MVP after leading the IceHogs with 21 points in its 17-game championship run.

Detroit eliminated by Anaheim in six

2007-05-23T11:39:00.000-07:00

WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS

DETROIT RED WINGS (1) vs. ANAHEIM DUCKS (2)

Game 1 - at Detroit 2, Anaheim 1
Game 2 - Anaheim 4 at Detroit 3 (OT)
Game 3 - Detroit 5 at Anaheim 0
Game 4 - at Anaheim 5, Detroit 3
Game 5 - Anaheim 2 at Detroit 1
Game 6 - at Anaheim 4, Detroit 3
(Anaheim wins series, 4-2)

Anaheim will face Ottawa in the Stanley Cup Finals.

Flags fold, but hockey may stay in Port Huron

2007-05-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

The United Hockey League announced on Friday that the Port Huron Flags are ceasing operations immediately.

Unfortunately, the current ownership chose not to move forward with the operation of the franchise.

"We regret that we were not able to go on further with the Port Huron Flags hockey team, but we are happy that there are continued negotiations with others to keep the Flags in Port Huron for the upcoming UHL season," Flags chairman Charlie Barrett said.

“The league owes a lot to Charlie Barrett and the group of civic minded individuals that kept the Flags going the past two years,” stated UHL president/CEO Richard Brosal. “They have allowed us the time to find new ownership that can hopefully be announced in the next couple of weeks."

The UHL hopes to have an announcement in the upcoming weeks regarding a new ownership group that will keep UHL hockey in Port Huron next season.

Pronger suspended for Game 4

2007-05-16T14:44:00.000-07:00

The National Hockey League announced today that Anaheim Ducks defenseman Chris Pronger has been suspended for one game for a blow to the head of Detroit Red Wings forward Tomas Holmstrom in Western Conference Final Game #3 in Anaheim, May 15.

The incident occurred at 11:40 of the second period.

Pronger will miss Game 4 of the Western Conference Final, Thursday at Anaheim. He will be eligible to return for Game 5, Sunday at Detroit.

Red Wings sign prospect Igor Grigorenko

2007-05-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

By Ansar Khan, Booth Newspapers

Six years after being drafted by the Detroit Red Wings and four years after his near-fatal car accident in Russia, Igor Grigorenko is finally coming to North America.

The 5-foot-10, 209-pound left wing is no longer the Wings' top prospect, but he still has an intriguing set of skills. Next season, the Wings will see if he's ready to play in the NHL. The club has signed Grigorenko to a one-year entry level contract worth $858,800. He'll be competing for a job in training camp in Traverse City this fall.

"He was a real top prospect for us a number of years ago but unfortunately had that accident,'' Wings general manager Ken Holland said. "He's had a couple of years where he's been able to play and get healthy. We feel it's time to come over and see where he's at.''

The Wings selected Grigorenko with the 62nd overall pick (second round) in the 2001 draft. He was one of the top players in the Russian Elite League before sustaining a broken left femur and two fractures in his left tibia when he lost control of his car on a rain-slicked highway on May 16, 2003. He nearly died in the hospital after sustaining a fat embolism in his lung, but he recovered from his injuries well enough to resume his hockey career in Russia in December 2003.

"He's got great hands, a goal-scoring touch. He can drive to the net, he's hard to knock around, he's so solid,'' Holland said. "Skating was the only part of his game he had to improve on. Obviously, the accident set him back.''

Before the accident, Grigorenko was talented enough to play on the same line with Detroit's Pavel Datsyuk and Atlanta's Ilya Kovalchuk in the 2003 World Hockey Championship.

"When you bring a European player over you never know, but we feel the timing is right and he's as healthy as he's ever been,'' Holland said. "How's his speed going to be and how's he going to react to physical play?''

Grigorenko, 24, signed a two-way contract, meaning he'll make considerably less in the minors (about $70,000). However, he has a clause in the deal that allows him to return to Russia after spending about three weeks with the Wings' AHL affiliate, Grand Rapids, at the start of the season if he doesn't earn a spot on the NHL roster.

Wings advance to Colonial Cup finals

2007-05-10T07:36:00.000-07:00

Game 1 - Kalamazoo 4 at Muskegon 3 (OT)
Game 2 - at Muskegon 2, Kalamazoo 1
Game 3 - at Kalamazoo 5, Muskegon 4
Game 4 - Muskegon 4 at Kalamazoo 1
Game 5 - at Muskegon 4, Kalamazoo 2
Game 6 - at Kalamazoo 5, Muskegon 1
Game 7 - Kalamazoo 3 at Muskegon 2
(Kalamazoo wins series, 4-3)

K-Zoo's Lawmaster, Karlander suspended by UHL

2007-05-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

The United Hockey League announced Monday that two Kalamazoo Wings players, Jason Lawmaster and Kory Karlander, have been suspended for their actions during Saturday’s Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals of the Colonial Cup playoffs against the Muskegon Fury.

Lawmaster was involved in an on-ice cross checking incident as well as an off-ice incident.

“Mr. Lawmaster’s actions will not be tolerated or condoned by the UHL, and due to his actions, he is receiving a 15-game suspension. His on-ice cross check to his opponents’ head along with his off-ice conduct was deplorable,” stated UHL president/CEO Richard Brosal. “We will not accept this type of behavior from our players.”

Karlander was on the receiving end of an unfortunate situation while on the ice. A spectator in the LC Walker Arena found it necessary to throw a golf ball on the ice in the direction of Karlander at which time he caught the golf ball and tossed it back into the crowd.

“Although we can’t penalize the fan who inexcusably threw the golf ball on the ice, we do have to discipline the player for his actions. I want to stress that Kory Karlander’s demeanor along with his reputation in the hockey world is very good. His actions were one of reacting, and at no time do I feel were made with any malice or thought of striking anyone with the golf ball,” said Brosal. “Mr. Karlander is suspended for two games at a very critical time in the playoffs.”

Lawmaster’s suspension began with Game 6 on Monday. Karlander also missed that game and also will be ineligible to play Game 7 scheduled for Wednesday.

“The league stands by these decisions due to the actions of the players and hopes that this sends a strong message to the league about unacceptable conduct,” Brosal added. “In addition, one of these incidents was instigated by irresponsible fan behavior. The fans must also take responsibility for their actions and stay within the bounds of appropriate conduct while enjoying exciting UHL action.”