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Showing posts with label Windsor Spitfires. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Windsor Spitfires. Show all posts
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Kassian in court July 7th
Spitfires' forward, Zack Kassian faces an assault charge for his part in an altercation at the Beach Sports Bar and Grill in Windsor early Sunday morning.
The 19 year old was arrested shortly after the incident, one in which the other party involved reportedly suffered a chipped tooth. Kassian was taken into custody and later released on the promise to appear in court. He's retained Windsor lawyer Pat Ducharme who's still being briefed on the case.
Kassian is currently in Cuba with Spitfires' team mates, a trip to celebrate the team's consecutive Memorial Cup championships.
No stranger to trouble on the ice, in January the Kingsville native was suspended for 20-games for what the OHL considered an unnecessarily aggressive hit on Barrie's Matt Kennedy. Kennedy was forced out of action with a concussion because of the hit.
A Buffalo Sabres first round draft pick in 2009, Kassian has yet to sign a contract with the club.
*Assembled with details from /A\ News Windsor
The 19 year old was arrested shortly after the incident, one in which the other party involved reportedly suffered a chipped tooth. Kassian was taken into custody and later released on the promise to appear in court. He's retained Windsor lawyer Pat Ducharme who's still being briefed on the case.
Kassian is currently in Cuba with Spitfires' team mates, a trip to celebrate the team's consecutive Memorial Cup championships.
No stranger to trouble on the ice, in January the Kingsville native was suspended for 20-games for what the OHL considered an unnecessarily aggressive hit on Barrie's Matt Kennedy. Kennedy was forced out of action with a concussion because of the hit.
A Buffalo Sabres first round draft pick in 2009, Kassian has yet to sign a contract with the club.
*Assembled with details from /A\ News Windsor
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Back in Biznass
It appears that... I'm finally good-to-go... back to work. Amazing how quickly time flies when you're stuck on the couch. It's already Wednesday. Tomorrow, I'll be on an aircraft bound for Brandon, Manitoba to catch the Spitfires most likely wrap up their 2nd straight Memorial Cup title. If it happens, it'll be my pleasure to witness.
The NHL should be really happy if things turn out they way they look to be turning out. Don't want to jinx it, but I'd be tickled too.
And hey, so much is being made over teams with about decent records going on long playoff runs. Again, and I've said this before, let this serve as inspiration to others, including the Maple Leafs that a lot can be done with a little. Think big, boyz.
Good luck to Devon Peacock who'll be filling in as host of Da Hook this Friday night on am980.ca.
London City Manager, Ryan Gauss, hockeybuzz.com blogger, Mike In Buffalo and myself will all be joining him.
The NHL should be really happy if things turn out they way they look to be turning out. Don't want to jinx it, but I'd be tickled too.
And hey, so much is being made over teams with about decent records going on long playoff runs. Again, and I've said this before, let this serve as inspiration to others, including the Maple Leafs that a lot can be done with a little. Think big, boyz.
Good luck to Devon Peacock who'll be filling in as host of Da Hook this Friday night on am980.ca.
London City Manager, Ryan Gauss, hockeybuzz.com blogger, Mike In Buffalo and myself will all be joining him.
Monday, May 10, 2010
A Major decision
I have no sympathy for anyone out of Windsor complaining about being left out of next year's Memorial Cup. For starters, it's not exactly true. Sure, the city learned today that it will not be hosting the 2011 tournament, but if the stars align Windsor's team can certainly make next year's event. Will it be worth the extra 3 hours of travel though? See, bloody Mississauga is hosting the bloody thing now. Yeah I know, bloody Mississauga and it's lack of support for Jr. Hockey shouldn't be permitted to welcome the game's best. Yeah yeah, well that sentiment, while passionately argued by many, is trite, kind of pathetic, and foolish. Toronto's grandest suburb may not produce the frenzied faithful of other towns, but it's still a major hockey hub with financial might, media accessibility and potential for much better. Jr. Hockey is big business now, and while it's passionate roots remain in our smaller communities, the game must find a way to return to our biggest markets. Starting in Mississauga is a good start.
There's talk the Spitfires might breakdown, rebuild, retool, whatever after Brandon in order to better position themselves for a run at Mississauga. Forget it. Why not instead take a run at Windsor? The Memorial Cup tournament rotates through the top leagues, so by 2013 it'll be back in Ontario, and the CHL looking for a suitable host. 2013 is when the Spitfires should really be of Championship calibre again. By taking a step back for the next couple, a major step forward could very well follow. The Spits didn't get the 2011 tournament for a variety of reasons. Perhaps the very same reasons that might favour them a few years down the line? Nevermind already having won the big one, the Rose City could finally get the big one. Until then, let the cries of neglect continue. As inaccurate as they are, they're still entertaining.
There's talk the Spitfires might breakdown, rebuild, retool, whatever after Brandon in order to better position themselves for a run at Mississauga. Forget it. Why not instead take a run at Windsor? The Memorial Cup tournament rotates through the top leagues, so by 2013 it'll be back in Ontario, and the CHL looking for a suitable host. 2013 is when the Spitfires should really be of Championship calibre again. By taking a step back for the next couple, a major step forward could very well follow. The Spits didn't get the 2011 tournament for a variety of reasons. Perhaps the very same reasons that might favour them a few years down the line? Nevermind already having won the big one, the Rose City could finally get the big one. Until then, let the cries of neglect continue. As inaccurate as they are, they're still entertaining.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Boughner unapologetic
"A handshake is a sign of respect" - Bob Boughner
Business is business. Family is family. In the OHL the two are often interwoven, prompting good hockey and at times bad blood. Spits' head coach, Bob Boughner has felt the results of both recently. Days before watching his team dominate its way to another league title, he watched a member of the "family" get swept up by the enemy. Yes, it still stings. And yes, the Spits are still incredibly angry over Kerby Rychel's selection by Barrie. For its part, Colts management says it was business. But Boughner says it should've been about family, and honouring it. That's something the Eastern champs, or chumps tonight, appeared not to do when they took Warren Rychel's son with the final pick of the first round.
Despite any joy deep down of winning that 2nd straight OHL championship, Boughner was still furious post game about what transpired at the draft. He was so upset he refused to shake the hand of Colts' head coach, Marty Williamson. It was minutes after the Spitfires won, behind the bench, and caught on camera. Attempting to read Boughner's lips when he pulled away from Williamson's gesture, he said something like "I ain't shaking your hand." But hey, don't quote me on it ;) Any way you want to interpret it that post game snub is big news in Barrie for different reasons than in Windsor. Down by the border where the 'us against the world' mentality is heavy, the Spitfires' head coach is being hailed as heroic. The team and it's many supporters, of course believe Bougher was standing up for his posse in denying Williamson's hand. To them, the diss was a proud showing of displeasure. And a warning, that the Windsor Spitfires will not be disrespected.
Even today Boughner has no remorse over what did or didn't happen on Tuesday. He actually seems even more pissed off by it, calling what the Colts did "malicious". Boughner might be overstating things a bit with that kind of rhetoric, but he's steadfast in his belief that Williamson and the Colts management group should have honoured Windsor's intentions. Or at the very least given the Spitfires the courtesy of a head's up that Kerby was on their hit list. Boughner insists his group might have made adjustments, hinting a deal could have been struck in order to secure the GM's kid. It didn't happen.
In the end, gamesmanship won out at the expense of sportsmanship. It's latest in an unfortunate, unapologetic and extremely interesting feud between OHL foes. Wonder what's next?
Further reading:
Brandon Bound
Over and Out
Son of a Spit! He's a Colt
Business is business. Family is family. In the OHL the two are often interwoven, prompting good hockey and at times bad blood. Spits' head coach, Bob Boughner has felt the results of both recently. Days before watching his team dominate its way to another league title, he watched a member of the "family" get swept up by the enemy. Yes, it still stings. And yes, the Spits are still incredibly angry over Kerby Rychel's selection by Barrie. For its part, Colts management says it was business. But Boughner says it should've been about family, and honouring it. That's something the Eastern champs, or chumps tonight, appeared not to do when they took Warren Rychel's son with the final pick of the first round.
Despite any joy deep down of winning that 2nd straight OHL championship, Boughner was still furious post game about what transpired at the draft. He was so upset he refused to shake the hand of Colts' head coach, Marty Williamson. It was minutes after the Spitfires won, behind the bench, and caught on camera. Attempting to read Boughner's lips when he pulled away from Williamson's gesture, he said something like "I ain't shaking your hand." But hey, don't quote me on it ;) Any way you want to interpret it that post game snub is big news in Barrie for different reasons than in Windsor. Down by the border where the 'us against the world' mentality is heavy, the Spitfires' head coach is being hailed as heroic. The team and it's many supporters, of course believe Bougher was standing up for his posse in denying Williamson's hand. To them, the diss was a proud showing of displeasure. And a warning, that the Windsor Spitfires will not be disrespected.
Even today Boughner has no remorse over what did or didn't happen on Tuesday. He actually seems even more pissed off by it, calling what the Colts did "malicious". Boughner might be overstating things a bit with that kind of rhetoric, but he's steadfast in his belief that Williamson and the Colts management group should have honoured Windsor's intentions. Or at the very least given the Spitfires the courtesy of a head's up that Kerby was on their hit list. Boughner insists his group might have made adjustments, hinting a deal could have been struck in order to secure the GM's kid. It didn't happen.
In the end, gamesmanship won out at the expense of sportsmanship. It's latest in an unfortunate, unapologetic and extremely interesting feud between OHL foes. Wonder what's next?
Further reading:
Brandon Bound
Over and Out
Son of a Spit! He's a Colt
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Brandon bound
I'm going to the Memorial Cup to cover the first leg of the Spits' tournament. Hopefully Bob Bellacicco gets his chance too. He's set up to be there for the Championship game, IF Windsor's around for it? They're good enough to get there. And if Philipp Grubauer, /A\ News Athlete of the Week btw, can carry over his incredible play, it'll happen. You only get one shot to repeat. This is it for the Spits.
Only thing is... I wish I had as much enthusiasm for the trip as the Spitfires do. Things could be better for me.
Ryan Ellis will be on Da Hook Friday night.... along with Andy Fantuz, Mark Hominick and Mike In Buffalo.
Only thing is... I wish I had as much enthusiasm for the trip as the Spitfires do. Things could be better for me.
Ryan Ellis will be on Da Hook Friday night.... along with Andy Fantuz, Mark Hominick and Mike In Buffalo.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Over and out
I'm told the Spitfires haven't even played their best game yet. That includes the entire playoffs and this current 7 game win streak. So are we to believe the Spitfires have even more to offer? They can be better? If true that's nuts.
Either way (and any money it still won't be considered their "best") it's all over tonight. Beating Windsor 4 straight at this point is too monumental a task even for the likes of the talented, but worn down Colts. Point is, the writing's on the wall. This series isn't going 7. So how and where will Barrie find the detemination and grit (not stupidity) it needs to extend things another night? Maybe in that same hope their opponents once clung too. Two weeks ago the Spits were in virtually the same position, down 3-0 and facing life or elimination on the road. The difference is Kitchener at that time had both run it's course and out of luck. Tonight, Windsor is a team on a mission. Cohesive and confident. They're champions. And on the verge of officially keeping their title. Standing in the way, an eventual runner-up. Really, it's only a matter of periods (maybe 3) until the Colts succumb to their inferiority. What's say they officially realize that tonight, take their consolation prize from Windsor in the GM's kid and head home?
All in all I believe the Spitfires are one of the most deadly teams in Junior hockey history. A stature created by the team's General Manager, Warren Rychel. I was critical of his belief Kirby would be waiting for him in the draft, but you can't blame him for wanting his boy to play for him. It's worked out for the Hunters in London and Mike Foligno in Sudbury. And hey, it still might happen. Perhaps there's a deal in the works? Meantime, Rychel will continue to mould the Spitfires into an annual contender. Love him or hate him, he's good at his job. A grading that might just go up to 'great' by about 10:30 tonight, when yet another major trophy is awarded to a once lousy organization he built into a champion. A repeat champion.
Either way (and any money it still won't be considered their "best") it's all over tonight. Beating Windsor 4 straight at this point is too monumental a task even for the likes of the talented, but worn down Colts. Point is, the writing's on the wall. This series isn't going 7. So how and where will Barrie find the detemination and grit (not stupidity) it needs to extend things another night? Maybe in that same hope their opponents once clung too. Two weeks ago the Spits were in virtually the same position, down 3-0 and facing life or elimination on the road. The difference is Kitchener at that time had both run it's course and out of luck. Tonight, Windsor is a team on a mission. Cohesive and confident. They're champions. And on the verge of officially keeping their title. Standing in the way, an eventual runner-up. Really, it's only a matter of periods (maybe 3) until the Colts succumb to their inferiority. What's say they officially realize that tonight, take their consolation prize from Windsor in the GM's kid and head home?
All in all I believe the Spitfires are one of the most deadly teams in Junior hockey history. A stature created by the team's General Manager, Warren Rychel. I was critical of his belief Kirby would be waiting for him in the draft, but you can't blame him for wanting his boy to play for him. It's worked out for the Hunters in London and Mike Foligno in Sudbury. And hey, it still might happen. Perhaps there's a deal in the works? Meantime, Rychel will continue to mould the Spitfires into an annual contender. Love him or hate him, he's good at his job. A grading that might just go up to 'great' by about 10:30 tonight, when yet another major trophy is awarded to a once lousy organization he built into a champion. A repeat champion.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Son of a Spit! He's a Colt
It was funny, stupid, arrogant and unfortunate.
Spits' GM, Warren Rychel says he's going to wait 'til the end of the season to digest just how badly he was victimized during Saturday's OHL draft. He didn't get the player he wanted when he wanted him. How tragic.
Let's be clear: Rychel made himself the victim by expecting trust and sportsmanship from people who are neither fond of him nor his organization. And he further pissed off his "haters", both casual and de facto, by arrogantly announcing to the league that he planned to take his son in the 2nd round. He's the architect of a Memorial Cup champion for God's sake. Yet naively planned on seeing his boy, Kirby waiting there unselected with a pick to spare in round two. Here's the funny part. Not only did it not happen, Kirby was snapped up by the Barrie Colts with the very next selection. Not in the 2nd round where Dad had him valued, but on the final pick of the first frame, owned and happily utilized by those Colts.
It's posturing at it's finest on behalf of Barrie, and again Kirby Rychel might just be worthy of the selection. He is afterall a member of an NHL family. A family whose patriarch is effin' furious tonight. Hey, give the Colts some credit. They're finished in these finals anyway. In addition to doing some physical damage before bowing out (see the last 40 seconds of game 3), why not inflict a little psychological trauma on the Spits too? Let's make another thing clear: The Colts owe the Spits nothing. While they didn't do themselves any favours by helping themselves to forbidden fruit, Barrie's focus is itself. Or so we hope.
Taking Kirby was an automatic dig at the dastardly Spitfires, and most likely a sleek hockey move by the folks on the tip of cottage country. But if Colts management somehow came down with a case of the 'resentments' and chose the younger Rychel just to stick it to his old man, then it's disrupted its own plan both on and off the ice. I'm betting the pick was designed to accomplish a few objectives. I'm also betting Rychel; known to hold a grudge, or several, won't forget this, ultimately causing even more hurt. He'll no doubt remain vengeful. And estranged from the kid who's number one in his heart, 2nd on his depth chart.
Spits' GM, Warren Rychel says he's going to wait 'til the end of the season to digest just how badly he was victimized during Saturday's OHL draft. He didn't get the player he wanted when he wanted him. How tragic.
Let's be clear: Rychel made himself the victim by expecting trust and sportsmanship from people who are neither fond of him nor his organization. And he further pissed off his "haters", both casual and de facto, by arrogantly announcing to the league that he planned to take his son in the 2nd round. He's the architect of a Memorial Cup champion for God's sake. Yet naively planned on seeing his boy, Kirby waiting there unselected with a pick to spare in round two. Here's the funny part. Not only did it not happen, Kirby was snapped up by the Barrie Colts with the very next selection. Not in the 2nd round where Dad had him valued, but on the final pick of the first frame, owned and happily utilized by those Colts.
It's posturing at it's finest on behalf of Barrie, and again Kirby Rychel might just be worthy of the selection. He is afterall a member of an NHL family. A family whose patriarch is effin' furious tonight. Hey, give the Colts some credit. They're finished in these finals anyway. In addition to doing some physical damage before bowing out (see the last 40 seconds of game 3), why not inflict a little psychological trauma on the Spits too? Let's make another thing clear: The Colts owe the Spits nothing. While they didn't do themselves any favours by helping themselves to forbidden fruit, Barrie's focus is itself. Or so we hope.
Taking Kirby was an automatic dig at the dastardly Spitfires, and most likely a sleek hockey move by the folks on the tip of cottage country. But if Colts management somehow came down with a case of the 'resentments' and chose the younger Rychel just to stick it to his old man, then it's disrupted its own plan both on and off the ice. I'm betting the pick was designed to accomplish a few objectives. I'm also betting Rychel; known to hold a grudge, or several, won't forget this, ultimately causing even more hurt. He'll no doubt remain vengeful. And estranged from the kid who's number one in his heart, 2nd on his depth chart.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Hockey Heaven
Isn't it liberating to watch hockey, playoff hockey, intense, nail biting, holy-shit-this-is-killin-me kind of hockey unattached? It's a Spring tradition for Leafs supporters so it has to be rationalized somehow. Plus it gets easier as it becomes more often. I care to watch. I just don't care who wins. As for who loses? I'm not that vindictive...
Still 6?
If there's a team that can overcome a ridiculous deficit to win a series it's the Windsor Spitfires. On paper, minus it's goaltending, it's one of the nastiest Junior hockey line-ups ever. The scary thing, it's getting better. The Spits owned game 5 at WFCU. From the 2nd period on, it was lopsided. Now I'm wondering: was Thursday's win a discovery of "that other gear", or simply a last gasp before relinquishing the title Friday night back in K-Town?
Look out
I know Steve Spott is a concerned head coach right now. As hockey writer, Garrett Bauman pointed out to me earlier this week, Spott's Rangers allowed a sleeping giant to awake from it's slumber when they couldn't sweep the set Tuesday in Kitchener. Despite the looming danger of a full fledged Spitfires' comeback I'm still going with the Rangers to win the series in 6. Am I totally confident it's going to happen? About as confident as the Rangers must be that they can put it away.
*Kitchener has failed to close out a pair of series on home ice in these playoffs. A 3rd strike infront of their faithful, at least in a hockey sense, could finally prove fatal.
Still 6?
If there's a team that can overcome a ridiculous deficit to win a series it's the Windsor Spitfires. On paper, minus it's goaltending, it's one of the nastiest Junior hockey line-ups ever. The scary thing, it's getting better. The Spits owned game 5 at WFCU. From the 2nd period on, it was lopsided. Now I'm wondering: was Thursday's win a discovery of "that other gear", or simply a last gasp before relinquishing the title Friday night back in K-Town?
Look out
I know Steve Spott is a concerned head coach right now. As hockey writer, Garrett Bauman pointed out to me earlier this week, Spott's Rangers allowed a sleeping giant to awake from it's slumber when they couldn't sweep the set Tuesday in Kitchener. Despite the looming danger of a full fledged Spitfires' comeback I'm still going with the Rangers to win the series in 6. Am I totally confident it's going to happen? About as confident as the Rangers must be that they can put it away.
*Kitchener has failed to close out a pair of series on home ice in these playoffs. A 3rd strike infront of their faithful, at least in a hockey sense, could finally prove fatal.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Not enough
The Rangers will still beat the Spitfires. It'll take 6 games. They do it, finally, on home ice.
Why?
Windsor's game 4 win, just barely, wasn't nearly emphatic enough. Nothing about it said, "look the fuck out." The goaltending, like London's before it, is failing. The defence isn't much better. Both are having trouble withstanding Kitchener's impressive onslaught, and it's highly doubtful either will be able to hold it down for the full life of the series.
Suppose the important thing for Boughner's boyz is that there's another game to be played? Another day to be enjoyed? Another crack at keeping the title? Yeah, right.
Unfortunately for the Champs, their reign is winding down. What appears to have become a matter of hockey life and death for the Windsor Spitfires is really only a matter of time.
Why?
Windsor's game 4 win, just barely, wasn't nearly emphatic enough. Nothing about it said, "look the fuck out." The goaltending, like London's before it, is failing. The defence isn't much better. Both are having trouble withstanding Kitchener's impressive onslaught, and it's highly doubtful either will be able to hold it down for the full life of the series.
Suppose the important thing for Boughner's boyz is that there's another game to be played? Another day to be enjoyed? Another crack at keeping the title? Yeah, right.
Unfortunately for the Champs, their reign is winding down. What appears to have become a matter of hockey life and death for the Windsor Spitfires is really only a matter of time.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Feeling for Troy Passingham
"I lost it in the seats", said Spits' goaltender Troy Passingham, owner of one of the worst goals against in recent OHL playoff memory.
Wonder if it's a career lost too?
I mean, a simple dump-in from centre ice beat the Mississauga native (he wasn't paying attention) with 70 seconds remaining in game 3, breaking a 3-3 tie. It's a nightmare scenario turned excruciatingly real, and enough to make one sick. But give the kid a gravol, and some credit. Pale faced, he faced the media, and the music on Monday. I honestly hope it becomes therapeutic for him to talk about it, because he may never live it down. Certainly not this season. He'll ride the pines in game 4 at Kitchener. And of course, won't play when the team returns to Windsor later that night. Man, that's going to be one crummy locker clean out.
6-4 Rangers to sweep the Spits. The stunned and shell shocked Spits.
Boo Jays
Been trying for a while now to get a player or two on "The Hook". My efforts have been fruitless thus far, thanks in part to the Jays' elusive head media guy who barely responds to my requests. Several have been made. Only one replied to, the guy wondering which outlet I represented. I explained to him my objectives, aims, dreams, goals in life and still haven't heard back. Hope he didn't get the wrong idea? I'm not delusional. I don't mistake my radio show, in humble London, for being incredibly popular, but I KNOW its not without ears, and still very much a legitimate and worthy venue to get the word out. And shit, it's no secret the Jays could sure use the push. Team optics are pathetic. Why not let us hear something positive about the team? Anyway, I'll be on am980.ca every Friday night starting at 8:00. And checking my inbox every morning.
Wonder if it's a career lost too?
I mean, a simple dump-in from centre ice beat the Mississauga native (he wasn't paying attention) with 70 seconds remaining in game 3, breaking a 3-3 tie. It's a nightmare scenario turned excruciatingly real, and enough to make one sick. But give the kid a gravol, and some credit. Pale faced, he faced the media, and the music on Monday. I honestly hope it becomes therapeutic for him to talk about it, because he may never live it down. Certainly not this season. He'll ride the pines in game 4 at Kitchener. And of course, won't play when the team returns to Windsor later that night. Man, that's going to be one crummy locker clean out.
6-4 Rangers to sweep the Spits. The stunned and shell shocked Spits.
Boo Jays
Been trying for a while now to get a player or two on "The Hook". My efforts have been fruitless thus far, thanks in part to the Jays' elusive head media guy who barely responds to my requests. Several have been made. Only one replied to, the guy wondering which outlet I represented. I explained to him my objectives, aims, dreams, goals in life and still haven't heard back. Hope he didn't get the wrong idea? I'm not delusional. I don't mistake my radio show, in humble London, for being incredibly popular, but I KNOW its not without ears, and still very much a legitimate and worthy venue to get the word out. And shit, it's no secret the Jays could sure use the push. Team optics are pathetic. Why not let us hear something positive about the team? Anyway, I'll be on am980.ca every Friday night starting at 8:00. And checking my inbox every morning.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Source: Ryan to Spits Monday
It's all "off the record", but Leafs' 2nd rounder, Kenny Ryan is indeed headed to Windsor. They've gotta work some things out with the "O" then it's a gO. Again, it's expected to go down Monday. My guy in Windsor says, "Ryan will be this year's Dale Mitchell". I say: he'll be even better, especially beyond his junior days. Doubt he'll be as fast as Mitchell, but all-round, he'll evolve into a superior hockey player. Fellow Leafs' pick, Jesse Blacker is soon to be on his way out of town. He wants out. We're hearing of one deal that could send him to Saginaw for super goalie, Eddie Pasquale. Despite a respectable start, Spits' management is NOT pleased with it's netminding situation nor it's team's inability to dominate like last season. Boughner and Rychel want to embarrass teams, not just beat them.
Listen to Da Hook on am980 tomorrow, 8pm. Stud, but injured Spits' blueliner, Ryan Ellis will be on the program. We'll talk about Ryan, Blacker, Pasquale, Spits, Preds even the Leafs.
Listen to Da Hook on am980 tomorrow, 8pm. Stud, but injured Spits' blueliner, Ryan Ellis will be on the program. We'll talk about Ryan, Blacker, Pasquale, Spits, Preds even the Leafs.
Ryan to Spits rumours
Efforting to get confirmation.
Just spoke to injured Spits' defenceman, Ryan Ellis.. he can't confirm nor deny that Kenny Ryan is leaving Boston College for Windsor. He did say Ryan was not with the team as of this evening.
Ryan Ellis on Da Hook tomorrow night at 8:00.. am980.ca
Just spoke to injured Spits' defenceman, Ryan Ellis.. he can't confirm nor deny that Kenny Ryan is leaving Boston College for Windsor. He did say Ryan was not with the team as of this evening.
Ryan Ellis on Da Hook tomorrow night at 8:00.. am980.ca
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Dark side of the Knights
The Knights have gone to the dark side.
Some would argue they've already been, but in namesake at least, the Knights have arrived. And it's about time.
6 years ago Bill Dark was a finalist for the Knights' goaltending coach job. He would've been the perfect guy to help along the young talent in London had it not been for Dave Rook who back then seemed to inspire the Hunter brothers just a tad more. The results of Rook's hiring are easy to celebrate because some would say his job was pretty easy. Rook inherited some of the finest goaltenders the OHL has ever seen. Stars like Ryan MacDonald, Gerald Coleman, Adam Dennis and Steve Mason all thrived under Rook's tutelage. And so did he, on the backs of their accomplishments.
Goalie guru, Bill Dark
The man who didn't get the London gig and the chance to work with soon-to-be champions and one-day NHL'ers, ended up in the next worse thing. Dark took a job in what was then considered junior hockey purgatory: Windsor.
He was brought aboard the Spitfires coaching staff when things were at their most desire, desperate, their darkest. Hired by former team owner, Steve Riolo, Dark couldn't even get a pay cheque from his new employer in the early going. Things were that bad, at the cash register and on the ice. For a while, Dark's assignment with the Spitfires appeared to be on course for just a single year. I mean, if you're not getting paid, why work? Well, work is what Dark did despite the uncertainty surrounding his situation, and what do you know, the pay-off finally did come. A pay-off not just in the form of money, but in opportunity. He didn't know it at the time, but Dark was about to venture out of the darkness and straight under junior hockey's brightest lights.
The ownership take-over in Windsor was a god send. Not only for a franchise ill from years of neglect, but for the good people by the border who were getting sick from it, and of it. And when Steve Riolo (who was in over his head) finally handed over the keys to Bob Boughner and his group the tide immediately began to turn. Ownership partner Warren Rychel took over the hockey operations and drafted like a madman, or mad scientist. He brought in many a great midget star, including Ryan Ellis and Taylor Hall. These two dudes are among the best hockey players any of us will witness playing. They'll be major NHL contributors one day and always associated with helping to get the good ship Spitfire flying smoothly again. But behind the scenes, or behind the net, Bill Dark was there too.
Driving the 2 plus hours from London over bad roads and through snow storms, Dark became the guru of Windsor's burgeoning goaltending unit. He's made them all better keepers, even someone like Michal Neuvirth who spent roughly a month at the Barn. He credits Dark for making him a smarter goaltender, especially with the puck. A goalie that plays the puck strongly usually does everything else just as well. Neuvirth is a special goaltender who has had plenty of positive influence along the way. Dark feels honoured to have been able to chip in on the young Czech's development, but if there's one player or project he can attach his reputation to it's a guy who in many ways resembles himself. A member of the team with much to give, but without much given back.
The name Andrew Engelage, while accomplished, still doesn't create superstar imagery. He's a goaltender of the year, an OHL champion, a Memorial champion and sadly still an afterthought in hockey circles. But no matter what scouts think of him Engelage has a stellar portfolio and Dark's stamp is all over it. He took a big, clumsy kid drafted in like the millionth round and helped mould him into a confident big-save goaltender who along the way turned aside just as many attempts to unseat him as he did pucks. Again, Spits' goalie coach Dark gets a piece of that action.
What can the Knights see in the Dark?
For one, a goaltending coach who's produced results. Plus, they've hired from the competition. And make no mistake, prying away a critical piece of your rival's success is huge for the Knights who are widely viewed as yesterday's Spitfires. A once model franchise searching, even poaching for an edge. Something they haven't proven to demonstrate for a few years now. For a guy who's all about preventing goals, Dark is shooting for plenty of them with his new organization. His ultimate: turn the Knights' newly acquired padded pilgrim into his next OHL goaltender of the year. The Hunter's gave up 5 picks to get their hands on Michael Hutchinson from Barrie. He's an expensive body that must be treated as such, and that's where Dark comes in. His ability to make the promising finally fulfill will be counted upon once again. He's on a one year deal in London which is both good and bad. If he fails to follow through he's almost certainly gone next Spring. But if he can extract the inner champion out of another keeper who already has the physical tools; Dark may just get himself something he's surprisingly yet to earn as an OHL goaltending tutor, term.
6 years after narrowly missing out on a chance to work in his own backyard, Bill Dark has hit, and stuck. He can now work his landscaping job for the city of London in the morning then work his skills producing the city's next great goaltender in the afternoon. It's a dream job, that after thousands of miles, award winners and championships, Bill Dark finally gets to do.
Some would argue they've already been, but in namesake at least, the Knights have arrived. And it's about time.
6 years ago Bill Dark was a finalist for the Knights' goaltending coach job. He would've been the perfect guy to help along the young talent in London had it not been for Dave Rook who back then seemed to inspire the Hunter brothers just a tad more. The results of Rook's hiring are easy to celebrate because some would say his job was pretty easy. Rook inherited some of the finest goaltenders the OHL has ever seen. Stars like Ryan MacDonald, Gerald Coleman, Adam Dennis and Steve Mason all thrived under Rook's tutelage. And so did he, on the backs of their accomplishments.
Goalie guru, Bill Dark
The man who didn't get the London gig and the chance to work with soon-to-be champions and one-day NHL'ers, ended up in the next worse thing. Dark took a job in what was then considered junior hockey purgatory: Windsor.
He was brought aboard the Spitfires coaching staff when things were at their most desire, desperate, their darkest. Hired by former team owner, Steve Riolo, Dark couldn't even get a pay cheque from his new employer in the early going. Things were that bad, at the cash register and on the ice. For a while, Dark's assignment with the Spitfires appeared to be on course for just a single year. I mean, if you're not getting paid, why work? Well, work is what Dark did despite the uncertainty surrounding his situation, and what do you know, the pay-off finally did come. A pay-off not just in the form of money, but in opportunity. He didn't know it at the time, but Dark was about to venture out of the darkness and straight under junior hockey's brightest lights.
The ownership take-over in Windsor was a god send. Not only for a franchise ill from years of neglect, but for the good people by the border who were getting sick from it, and of it. And when Steve Riolo (who was in over his head) finally handed over the keys to Bob Boughner and his group the tide immediately began to turn. Ownership partner Warren Rychel took over the hockey operations and drafted like a madman, or mad scientist. He brought in many a great midget star, including Ryan Ellis and Taylor Hall. These two dudes are among the best hockey players any of us will witness playing. They'll be major NHL contributors one day and always associated with helping to get the good ship Spitfire flying smoothly again. But behind the scenes, or behind the net, Bill Dark was there too.
Driving the 2 plus hours from London over bad roads and through snow storms, Dark became the guru of Windsor's burgeoning goaltending unit. He's made them all better keepers, even someone like Michal Neuvirth who spent roughly a month at the Barn. He credits Dark for making him a smarter goaltender, especially with the puck. A goalie that plays the puck strongly usually does everything else just as well. Neuvirth is a special goaltender who has had plenty of positive influence along the way. Dark feels honoured to have been able to chip in on the young Czech's development, but if there's one player or project he can attach his reputation to it's a guy who in many ways resembles himself. A member of the team with much to give, but without much given back.
The name Andrew Engelage, while accomplished, still doesn't create superstar imagery. He's a goaltender of the year, an OHL champion, a Memorial champion and sadly still an afterthought in hockey circles. But no matter what scouts think of him Engelage has a stellar portfolio and Dark's stamp is all over it. He took a big, clumsy kid drafted in like the millionth round and helped mould him into a confident big-save goaltender who along the way turned aside just as many attempts to unseat him as he did pucks. Again, Spits' goalie coach Dark gets a piece of that action.
What can the Knights see in the Dark?
For one, a goaltending coach who's produced results. Plus, they've hired from the competition. And make no mistake, prying away a critical piece of your rival's success is huge for the Knights who are widely viewed as yesterday's Spitfires. A once model franchise searching, even poaching for an edge. Something they haven't proven to demonstrate for a few years now. For a guy who's all about preventing goals, Dark is shooting for plenty of them with his new organization. His ultimate: turn the Knights' newly acquired padded pilgrim into his next OHL goaltender of the year. The Hunter's gave up 5 picks to get their hands on Michael Hutchinson from Barrie. He's an expensive body that must be treated as such, and that's where Dark comes in. His ability to make the promising finally fulfill will be counted upon once again. He's on a one year deal in London which is both good and bad. If he fails to follow through he's almost certainly gone next Spring. But if he can extract the inner champion out of another keeper who already has the physical tools; Dark may just get himself something he's surprisingly yet to earn as an OHL goaltending tutor, term.
6 years after narrowly missing out on a chance to work in his own backyard, Bill Dark has hit, and stuck. He can now work his landscaping job for the city of London in the morning then work his skills producing the city's next great goaltender in the afternoon. It's a dream job, that after thousands of miles, award winners and championships, Bill Dark finally gets to do.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
What about Bob?
One day he's playing in the NHL, the next he's grooming players for NHL. It's what Windsor Spitfires' head coach, Bob Boughner was meant to do. The proof is in the performance. In the three short years since he and his staff took the helm in Windsor, the Spits have been transformed from a laughing stock into a blue chip champ. And they're ahead of schedule, which makes what's going on by the border these days even scarier. They planted the seeds of a perennial winner, quickly tasted success, and fully expect an extended harvest...with or without a future Leaf.Speaking of the Leafs and Spitfires, they've got a lot in common. I touched that and more in my recent conversation with the two-time OHL coach of the year.
NJ: Can you believe how quickly you've had success as a junior hockey head coach and owner?
BB: I never had it in the back of my mind that I would retire and coach right away. I thought I would put the right people in place and play another year or two. But I started catching the coaching bug a bit (while in Colorado). I used to sit with Tony Granato and Joel Quenneville after practice and ask them a lot of questions. Then one thing leads to another and it was just the best decision for me and my family at the time. I had four kids and I wanted to settle down. Sometimes I look back and wish I didn't retire as early as I did, but things have been great. I'm making a career in coaching now and I'm still doing something I love. I'm in the game of hockey.
NJ: What was the first thought that crossed your mind when you won the Memorial Cup?
BB: One, that my whole family was in the stands. But two, probably Mickey Renaud. He meant a lot to our organization and every day we're reminded of him. Everyone wears an 18 on their hat or jogging suit or on the back of their helmet. We had fans in the stands hold a banner with the number 18 and I'm good friends with his mom and dad. I wish Mickey could've been here to experience this.
NJ: Kenny Ryan (Leafs 2nd round pick, Spits 7th rounder), is he as good as gone to Boston College?
BB: Kenny has to look at all of his options. He is committed (to Boston College). We have yet to really get in front of him. If we got the chance to maybe sit down and talk and try to sell our program, I think it's the best option for him personally and for us, but we don't like to pressure kids too much after they've made a decision. I'm hoping to have a conversation with him before not too long.
NJ: Is there still an outside shot Ryan chooses to join the Spitfires?
BB: I think so. Drafted that high in the 2nd Round (of the NHL draft). Now with the OHL scholarships we'll be able to offer, basically full rides to kids like Kenny and take care of their education, it comes down a hockey decision. Him and his family have to think if they want to spend four years at university, work towards that degree than turn pro later on or spend a year or two in what I believe is the best development league in the world and make that jump to the National hockey league. It comes down to a hockey decision. And again, it's a personal decision for him and his family.
NJ: Do you wonder why the OHL is not the number one choice for a lot of these kids?
BB: I do. I understand alot of these kids' decisions, coming from a different culture than the kids growing up in Canada, absolutely. Any kid would love to be in his position. Taylor Hall and Cam Fowler will go top 5 (in the NHL draft) next year, I'm sure. Austin Watson and Justin Shugg, there's going to be scouts following us every night. We have a brand new state of the art arena and the chance to win a Memorial Cup and possibly host a Memorial Cup a year later. Things are very positive here in Windsor and we'll sell our program to anybody who'll listen, but at the same time we've got to respect people's wishes.
NJ: Growing up in Windsor were you a Leafs fan or a Wings fan?
BB: I grew up a Wings' fan because of being so close. I try to stay out of it now (NHL allegiances), but I was happy to see Pittsburgh win.
NJ: What's with the connection between the Spitfires and Leafs?
BB: Brian (Burke) is very well respect by myself and Warren Rychel. The way we played and worked for everything that we got, we sort of made it the hard way and I think Brian appreciates that. The style, if you watch our team, the way we play, we try to emulate a hard, fast, grinding, tough team and I think that's the kind of team Brian likes. And again, we won. And everybody likes to associate themselves with a winning organization, winning players. Dallas Eakins and myself played together for a couple of years. He's a guy that I respect very very much. I think there's a bit of a connection there. I think Toronto is going in absolutely 100 percent the right direction. They're under a great leader and I'm excited to see the turn around.
NJ: What was the first thought that crossed your mind when you won the Memorial Cup?
BB: One, that my whole family was in the stands. But two, probably Mickey Renaud. He meant a lot to our organization and every day we're reminded of him. Everyone wears an 18 on their hat or jogging suit or on the back of their helmet. We had fans in the stands hold a banner with the number 18 and I'm good friends with his mom and dad. I wish Mickey could've been here to experience this.
NJ: Kenny Ryan (Leafs 2nd round pick, Spits 7th rounder), is he as good as gone to Boston College?
BB: Kenny has to look at all of his options. He is committed (to Boston College). We have yet to really get in front of him. If we got the chance to maybe sit down and talk and try to sell our program, I think it's the best option for him personally and for us, but we don't like to pressure kids too much after they've made a decision. I'm hoping to have a conversation with him before not too long.
NJ: Is there still an outside shot Ryan chooses to join the Spitfires?
BB: I think so. Drafted that high in the 2nd Round (of the NHL draft). Now with the OHL scholarships we'll be able to offer, basically full rides to kids like Kenny and take care of their education, it comes down a hockey decision. Him and his family have to think if they want to spend four years at university, work towards that degree than turn pro later on or spend a year or two in what I believe is the best development league in the world and make that jump to the National hockey league. It comes down to a hockey decision. And again, it's a personal decision for him and his family.
NJ: Do you wonder why the OHL is not the number one choice for a lot of these kids?
BB: I do. I understand alot of these kids' decisions, coming from a different culture than the kids growing up in Canada, absolutely. Any kid would love to be in his position. Taylor Hall and Cam Fowler will go top 5 (in the NHL draft) next year, I'm sure. Austin Watson and Justin Shugg, there's going to be scouts following us every night. We have a brand new state of the art arena and the chance to win a Memorial Cup and possibly host a Memorial Cup a year later. Things are very positive here in Windsor and we'll sell our program to anybody who'll listen, but at the same time we've got to respect people's wishes.
NJ: Growing up in Windsor were you a Leafs fan or a Wings fan?
BB: I grew up a Wings' fan because of being so close. I try to stay out of it now (NHL allegiances), but I was happy to see Pittsburgh win.
NJ: What's with the connection between the Spitfires and Leafs?
BB: Brian (Burke) is very well respect by myself and Warren Rychel. The way we played and worked for everything that we got, we sort of made it the hard way and I think Brian appreciates that. The style, if you watch our team, the way we play, we try to emulate a hard, fast, grinding, tough team and I think that's the kind of team Brian likes. And again, we won. And everybody likes to associate themselves with a winning organization, winning players. Dallas Eakins and myself played together for a couple of years. He's a guy that I respect very very much. I think there's a bit of a connection there. I think Toronto is going in absolutely 100 percent the right direction. They're under a great leader and I'm excited to see the turn around.
Is Nazem Kadri top 6 ready?
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
http://www.thestar.com/Article/622319
He's no Leaf lover but he's a good writer. And today's topic is terrific.
He's no Leaf lover but he's a good writer. And today's topic is terrific.
Never enough
It isn't surprising the Knights are finished. While quick and talented something just didn't feel right about this group. It never really oozed championship. Championship calibre, yes. Good enough to go all the way? Never really seemed so. This team was too streaky. Not confident enough. Lacking dominance, even with John Tavares at his best. Perhaps forcing a team as exceptional as the Spitfires to a record 5 straight overtime games should be accomplishment enough? I doubt they feel that way in the London locker room, but when the Western champs finish accomplishing what many of us believe they can and will, the guys on the losing end may finally accept what happened to them Wednesday night.
Yeah, Tavares didn't play like his usual self in this Windsor series.
I don't even think he looked like himself. Either hurt, tired, maybe upset, frustrated? It's too bad it ended like this for him. Still the young man who WILL go number one at the NHL draft deserves an applause for his accomplishments and most importantly his efforts. The guy gave it everything he had. Everything. All the time. Any suggestion otherwise is mean spirited and foolish.
Congrats to the Spitfires.
I believe they've got much more to give. And good luck to the Knights. Should be an interesting off-season of remodelling. They gave much to get this shot at another title. The gamble ultimately failed, on the ice of course. Like always, the Hunters did win at the box office, but even financial success is no guarantee going forward. These are supposed to be tough times after all. Add in a recession along with the loss of graduates plus fewer assets to barter with and its hard to imagine another championship run for the Knights in 2010. And without promise, the chance for fan apathy looms. It all points to a probable lose-lose situation for an organization that is used to winning in some way every year.
Yeah, Tavares didn't play like his usual self in this Windsor series.
I don't even think he looked like himself. Either hurt, tired, maybe upset, frustrated? It's too bad it ended like this for him. Still the young man who WILL go number one at the NHL draft deserves an applause for his accomplishments and most importantly his efforts. The guy gave it everything he had. Everything. All the time. Any suggestion otherwise is mean spirited and foolish.
Congrats to the Spitfires.
I believe they've got much more to give. And good luck to the Knights. Should be an interesting off-season of remodelling. They gave much to get this shot at another title. The gamble ultimately failed, on the ice of course. Like always, the Hunters did win at the box office, but even financial success is no guarantee going forward. These are supposed to be tough times after all. Add in a recession along with the loss of graduates plus fewer assets to barter with and its hard to imagine another championship run for the Knights in 2010. And without promise, the chance for fan apathy looms. It all points to a probable lose-lose situation for an organization that is used to winning in some way every year.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Ouch
Wonder what Dale Hunter is thinking tonight?
His decision to sit Trevor Cann in favour of unproven Daryl Borden may have cost his team the series. Poor Borden, thrown into a tough situation at such a critical time and failing. I wanted him to pull it out. What a story it would've made!!!
Now back to reality.
Borden didn't do what Hunter had hoped. The kid's a Junior B wizard, but to provide his kind of magic on a stage like the OHL West Final and against a seething group of OHL superstars was a long shot at best. Hunter will be second guessed over the move and he should be. He's the head coach. With praise comes criticism. Sometimes we have to remind ourselves that. Its all part of the gig. Both gigs. That said, Borden should've stopped that puck. He knows it, and had he the outcome may have been different. He didn't though, leaving some of us to wonder if Trevor Cann would have? Monday's miss is a perfect example of just how tough it can be to coach under pressure. There's so much at stake, so little room for error. Over the years, Hunter and his various coaching staffs have had to make many difficult decisions and this one ranks among them. Not many have gone bust, this one did. Hey, they made the wrong call. It happens. Time to move on.
And there's always another way to look at it.
Just boil it down to a couple of bad breaks for the reason we're going to game 5 with the Spits in position to clinch. Its a scenario that's disheartened the Knights not broken them. There may not be much, but there's still time to turn it around.
I'll bet any money Cann is the guy who'll be making the saves for the Knights Wednesday night in Windsor. I wouldn't be all that surprised if he pulls it off too.
His decision to sit Trevor Cann in favour of unproven Daryl Borden may have cost his team the series. Poor Borden, thrown into a tough situation at such a critical time and failing. I wanted him to pull it out. What a story it would've made!!!
Now back to reality.
Borden didn't do what Hunter had hoped. The kid's a Junior B wizard, but to provide his kind of magic on a stage like the OHL West Final and against a seething group of OHL superstars was a long shot at best. Hunter will be second guessed over the move and he should be. He's the head coach. With praise comes criticism. Sometimes we have to remind ourselves that. Its all part of the gig. Both gigs. That said, Borden should've stopped that puck. He knows it, and had he the outcome may have been different. He didn't though, leaving some of us to wonder if Trevor Cann would have? Monday's miss is a perfect example of just how tough it can be to coach under pressure. There's so much at stake, so little room for error. Over the years, Hunter and his various coaching staffs have had to make many difficult decisions and this one ranks among them. Not many have gone bust, this one did. Hey, they made the wrong call. It happens. Time to move on.
And there's always another way to look at it.
Just boil it down to a couple of bad breaks for the reason we're going to game 5 with the Spits in position to clinch. Its a scenario that's disheartened the Knights not broken them. There may not be much, but there's still time to turn it around.
I'll bet any money Cann is the guy who'll be making the saves for the Knights Wednesday night in Windsor. I wouldn't be all that surprised if he pulls it off too.
Borden bail out?
For the 1st time in the 2009 playoffs the Knights' number one goaltender will be watching from the bench. In a move that could turn out to be either genius, or rash and ill timed, Dale Hunter is calling on a little used back up keeper to keep his team in this OHL West Final with the Spitfires. That Priviledge, or Burden, goes to Borden, as in Daryl. The 19-YEAR-OLD journeyman goaltender from Brantford will be thrown into the fire as the Knights' starter in the biggest game of their season.
Since joining London in the John Tavares deal, Borden has suited up for the Knights' just 3 times winning twice and losing in overtime. Over his career Borden has played in just 11 OHL playoff games. He has 2 wins, and 8 losses. Still he's tonight's go-to guy. Perhaps Trevor Cann needs a rest? The last goal he gave up wasn't of great quality (a low stinger from Eric Wellwood just inside the blueline) and it ended game 3 in favour of the Spitfires, and it was obviously the kind of goal that gets you placed on the bench.
Cann's goals against average in this series against windsor: over 4 per game. His save percentage is below the respectable level of .900.
Cann out. Borden in.
Since joining London in the John Tavares deal, Borden has suited up for the Knights' just 3 times winning twice and losing in overtime. Over his career Borden has played in just 11 OHL playoff games. He has 2 wins, and 8 losses. Still he's tonight's go-to guy. Perhaps Trevor Cann needs a rest? The last goal he gave up wasn't of great quality (a low stinger from Eric Wellwood just inside the blueline) and it ended game 3 in favour of the Spitfires, and it was obviously the kind of goal that gets you placed on the bench.
Cann's goals against average in this series against windsor: over 4 per game. His save percentage is below the respectable level of .900.
Cann out. Borden in.
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