[truebluefan]

Weather forces weekend schedule changes

WINDSOR, CO- Tonight's Wichita Thunder game at the Colorado Eagles, originally scheduled for Wednesday, has been postponed again due to weather conditions. The Thunder will now stay in Colorado and play the Eagles on Friday at 8:05 p.m. Central Time, instead of going to Tulsa. The game will be broadcast on Sportsradio 1410 KGSO.

"While it is never our preference to adjust team schedules, the safety of CHL fans, athletes and employees takes clear precedence in this situation", said CHL President Brad Treliving. "Ongoing extreme winter weather conditions in the state of Colorado have created significant travel concerns that have necessitated these adjustments."

Due to the bad weather, the Arizona Sundogs, who were scheduled to play in Colorado on Friday, are unable to get to Fort Collins and the Thunder were also not certain if they would be able to make it to Tulsa, where they were originally scheduled to play on Friday. The Thunder game at Tulsa will be rescheduled for a later date.

The Thunder, who have been stuck in Fort Collins since Tuesday, do not anticipate a problem getting back to Wichita in time for their home game on Saturday versus the Memphis RiverKings. Game time is set for 7:05 p.m.

Thunder season ticketholders can get additional tickets for Saturday night, as well as all home games in December for just $7 each. To order tickets or for more information, call the Thunder office at 264-GOAL or visit our website at www.wichitathunder.co

 

[truebluefan]

RiverKings and Commercial Appeal partner for education program

SOUTHAVEN --- Presenting educational information in an entertaining and distinctive way is important in the enrichment of our children's lives. It is the Memphis RiverKings' belief that the gift of knowledge opens endless possibilities to children. Based on this belief, the RiverKings organization has made it a priority to encourage learning is proud to partner with the Commercial Appeal for the Newspaper In Education program.

The Newspaper In Education program (NIE) provides students with a Reading, Writing, and RiverKings workbook focused on teaching students how to utilize the newspaper to enhance their reading and writing skills.

"The RiverKings organization is proud to, once again, partner with the Commercial Appeal's Newspaper In Education program," said Dave Mattice, Director of Business Operations for the RiverKings. "This program helps us to interact with the children in our community and portray to them the importance of education."

Schools throughout the Commercial Appeal's reading area signed up to participate in the program. NIE provides newspapers and workbooks to each classroom and a possible classroom appearance from RiverKings' players.

Classroom appearances tend to be one of the most enjoyable parts of this program, for the students as well as for the players. "It is great to be able to go into classrooms and interact with the children," RiverKings forward Sheldon Wenzel said. "The children are so excited to participate."

The NIE program is just kicking off. "We have visited two classrooms within the past two weeks," RiverKings Community Development staff member Cristin Franklin said. "Both appearances have been very exciting. The students really take to the players. Students and players alike seem to enjoy the interaction."

Each classroom appearance lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour in length, and includes a question and answer session, an interactive game using the Commercial Appeal, and an autograph session.

Thus far, the RiverKings have made classroom appearances in Olive Branch at Overpark Elementary, and Ms. Kennell's fourth grade class at Highland Oaks Elementary in Memphis, TN.

"My students were so excited to meet the players and really got involved in the [interactive] game," Ms. Kennel, fourth grade teacher at Highland Oaks, said. "The program was very well planned and engaging for the kids."

For further information on the Newspaper In Education program, contact the Memphis RiverKings Community Development department at 662.342.1755. And look for photos from the RiverKings classroom visits in your coming editions of the Commercial Appeal.

 

[truebluefan]

Scorpions continue to collect points

THIS WEEK:

FRI Dec. 22 Lubbock @ SCORPIONS 7:35 p.m. Santa Ana Star Center

*TEDDY BEAR TOSS*

The Scorpions will host the first place Lubbock Cotton Kings on Friday night. This is the second time the team will meet this season. The Scorpions held off Lubbock 3-1 on November 9 in New Mexico.

New Mexico will start a new hockey tradition with the 1st Annual Teddy Bear Toss. Bring a bear to the Scorpions game and throw it on the ice after the Scorpions score their first goal. All the bears will be collected and given to local children in need this holiday season. The Rio Rancho Police Department will be accepting the bars and taking them to the community.

Season Series: Scorpions lead 1-0-0 All Time Series: Scorpions lead 30-20-8

SAT Dec. 23 SCORPIONS @ Arizona 7:05 p.m. Tim's Toyota Center

The Scorpions will make their third trip to their new Southwest Division rival. The Sundogs and Scorpions will continue their month long battle in the fifth of eight December matchups.

The teams split this past weekend at the Santa Ana Star Center . The Scorpions picked up three points by winning Friday and dropping the overtime thriller Saturday. Both teams have shown a dislike for each other on the ice, giving fans exciting games.

Season Series: Scorpions lead 3-1-1 All Time Series: Scorpions lead 3-1-1

LAST WEEK: FRI Dec. 15 Arizona @ SCORPIONS (6-5 WIN) 7:35 p.m. Santa Ana Star Center

The teams put on an exciting show for the fans as the new CHL rivalry continues to be tight. The Scorpions took the lead into the locker room after 20-miuntes, but the Sundogs tied the game up in the second period setting up an exciting final frame.

The power play proved to be the difference for the Scorpions as Aaron MacInnis and Vladimir Hartinger lit the lamp giving the Scorpions enough goals to hang on for the victory.

Robertson started his night scoring on the power play 1:04 into the contest. Konrad Reeder pushed the Scorpions two goals ahead six minutes later with his sixth goal of the season.

Arizona 's Brent Kelly put his team on the board with the first of his four points on the night. Robertson would add his second goal before the end of the first period as would Kelly.

Early in the second period, Ryan Steeves tied the game up and silenced what was a raucous Santa Ana Star Center most of the night. Robertson finished his hat trick with another power play goal 17:37 into the second period. The Sundogs once again fought back when Dan DaSilva scored his fifth goal of the season with 11-seconds to go in the middle period.

The five power play goals for the Scorpions is a new season high. Previously, the Scorpions highest man advantage output was three goals, which they have done four times.

SAT Dec. 16 Arizona @ SCORPIONS (4-3 OT loss) 7:05 pm Santa Ana Star Center

New Mexico Scorpions came out firing but eventually lost to Arizona 4-3 in overtime Saturday night. New Mexico has picked up a point in their last eight games.

The Scorpions came out firing with three first period goals. Craig MacDonald scored a pair of goals just 28-seconds apart. Mike Prpich added a late first period goal giving the Scorpions a 3-0 lead after 20-minutes.

Unlike Friday night, the Arizona comeback was completed. Just past the halfway point of the second period, Karl Sellan netted his fifth goal of the season. The second period finished quietly as neither team was able to mount any more scoring.

Arizona used a two-goal third period to force overtime. David Svagrovsky scored his second goal of the year 8:21 into the third period to draw the Sundogs to within one.

Brent Kelly proved to be the hero as he finished off a big weekend. Late in the third period Kelly scored on the power play; it was just the start if his heroics.

Kelly then scored the game winner 2:50 into overtime when Cory Stillman fed a perfect cross ice pass to his line mate to give the Sundogs the win and two points in the standings.

SCORPIONS PROMOTIONS:

- DECEMBER INTERNET HOLIDAY TICKET SPECIAL-Go "ALL IN" and get your Corner Seat for only $16 when ordering online during the month of December. That is a savings of $6. CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

- Fri. Dec. 22-"TEDDY BEAR TOSS"-The Scorpions are introducing a new tradition to the hockey fans of New Mexico . The 1st Annual Teddy Bear Toss is fun for all. After the Scorpions score their first goal against Lubbock , fans will be invited to throw teddy bears on the ice. All the bears will be collected and donated to various local charities that focus on the helping youth in the State of New Mexico.

- Wed. Dec. 27-"GET OUT OF YOUR HOUSE NIGHT"-The Scorpions wants you to get out of the house Wednesday. Grab the family, neighbors, heck people you don't even know and get to the Scorpions game for a night of fun and exciting hockey. Ticket packages will include a ticket, hot dog and soda for only $19.

- Fri. Dec. 29-"STANLEY CUP AT THE GAME"-Come out and see the most revered trophy in North America. The Stanley Cup will be at the Scorpions game. Get your tickets to the game for this once in a lifetime event.

- Fri. Jan. 5-"BEAUTY AND ELVIS NIGHT"-The Scorpions will celebrate Elvis' Birthday at the Santa Ana Star Center . Elvis will be in the building and performing live for your enjoyment. Joining Elvis will be the most beautiful women in New Mexico . Miss News , Mrs. New , Miss Rio Rancho and Miss Albuquerque will be in attendance greeting the fans.

- Sat. Jan. 6-"SALUTE TO THE MILITARY NIGHT, presented by the U.S. ARMY"-Come out and help the Scorpions salute our military. The annual event will feature videos, photos and special tributes to the soldiers who are currently serving our great country, those who have fallen in battle and those who are now retired from active duty. The Scorpions will wear special "Stars and Stripes" jerseys that will be auctioned off after the game. The post-game auction will benefit families of soldiers who are currently stationed overseas thorugh the New Mexico Scorpions Charitable Foundation.

- WEEKEND BROADCAST SCHEDULE-This weekend's games can be heard on 610 The Sports Animal. For Scorpions fans outside the listening area, you can hear all Scorpions games online by visiting scorpionshockey.com: Broadcast Schedule. Don't forget that CHLTV is the perfect place to watch Scorpions games online. Visit LiveSportsNetwork for more details.

SCORPIONS IN THE COMMUNITY:

Sat. Jan. 6-Post Game Party with the Scorpions- Turtle Mountain Brewery (905 36th Place Rio Rancho, NM 87124 ).

Sat. Jan. 20-"MDA Walkathon"-"Cottonwood Mall 7am - 10am. Stanley will be on hand for kids of all ages.

TEAM NOTES:

The Scorpions have won six of their last 10 games, and have collected at least a point in their last eight games.

New Mexico has scored 29 third period goals, second most in the CHL.

RYAN VANDENBUSSCHE has signed as the Scorpions Player/Assistant Coach and will wear #14.

JAMIE HERRINGTON has been signed and will wear #15.

JAKE BRENK has been waived.

KONRAD REEDER has been moved to the 45-day injured reserve.

STANDOUTS:

ROB GUINN has at least one assist in five straight games.

MIKE FALK has registered seven assists in his last five games.

LANCE HERAUF leads all CHL rookies with 19 assists.

MIKE PRPICH is third among rookies with 10 goals.

 

[truebluefan]

Lubbock Cotton Kings Game at Rocky Mountain Rage Postponed

LUBBOCK, TX: December 20, 2006 - The Central Hockey League, in conjunction with the Lubbock Cotton Kings and the Rocky Mountain Rage, have officially postponed Thursday night's Lubbock Cotton Kings game against the host Broomfield, Colorado based Rocky Mountain Rage. The game is rescheduled for Wednesday, February 28, 2007 (8:05 PM - CST) at the Broomfield Events Center.

Allen Iverson is not the only individual that was having trouble trying to get to Denver today. The Lubbock Cotton Kings were originally scheduled to depart the Hub City for the Denver suburb of Broomfield this morning, but inclement weather, along with "Blizzard Warning" conditions, has dumped a large amount of snow in the Rocky Mountain State and has shutdown major throughways leading into the Denver area.

The blizzard condition forced the postponement of Thursday's game, but has not made an impact to the remainder of the "three-in-three" originally scheduled weekend. The Kings will leave for Rio Rancho, New Mexico Thursday to prepare for Friday night's contest against the New Mexico Scorpions before returning home to host the Amarillo Gorillas Saturday.

The Cotton Kings are competing in their eighth season of professional hockey in the South Plains. They return to action Friday in New Mexico and their next home game at the Lubbock Municipal Coliseum is scheduled for 7:05 PM on Saturday against Amarillo. Individual ticket and corporate sponsorship information is available by contacting the Cotton Kings office at (806) 747-7825. Additional 'Kings info can be found online via their official site at The Lubbock Cotton Kings - There's Nothing Quite Like It! - Home.

 

[truebluefan]

Eagles Thursday game postponed to Friday

WINDSOR, CO- The Colorado Eagles have postponed their Thursday night game against the Wichita Thunder to Friday night. Due to the inclement weather, the Eagles will be playing the Wichita Thunder on Friday night rather than the Arizona Sundogs. The game against the Sundogs has been cancelled and will be rescheduled for a later date.

Season ticket holders should use their Game #12 tickets against the Wichita Thunder for Friday night's game and hold on to the Game #13 tickets for the game against the Sundogs for a later date to be determined.

FOR ALL GROUPS AND INDIVIDUAL TICKETS- The Wednesday groups and individual tickets will be honored at the Eagles game on Friday night against the Wichita Thunder. For those that have group and individual game tickets for the originally scheduled game against the Arizona Sundogs, please hold on to those tickets as they will be honored at the later date to be determined.

 

[truebluefan]

Tux & pucks for just six bucks

The countdown to 2007 is on, and you can be a part of the biggest New Year's Eve Party in the Coastal Bend. It all takes place Sunday night, December 31st on the 2nd Annual "Tux & Pucks Night" at the American Bank Center, presented by AT&T. The Corpus Christi Rayz will host the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs at a special start time of 8:05pm at the American Bank Center, and all fans in attendance will receive free admission to a post-game New Year's Eve Party. The post-game party which will take place inside the American Bank Center will offer something for everyone with food, drinks, music, ice skating, a player autograph session and a spectacular fireworks display on the waterfront at midnight. And, of course, it wouldn't be Tux & Pucks Night without the tuxedos.

All fans are encouraged to dress up in their formal wear, and help ring in 2007 in style. Rayz staff members and American Bank Center employees will be wearing tuxedos and formal attire. Even the Rayz players are joining in, and will be wearing commemorative New Year's Eve Tuxedo Jerseys for the game. The specialty jerseys will be auctioned off to fans at the game. To be a part of the Rayz Tux & Pucks Night presented by AT&T, fans can show their Dec. 31st ticket stubs at Tuxedo Junction in Sunrise Mall and rent tuxedos for less than $30. Tickets to the game start at just $6. It's Tux & Pucks For Just Six Bucks! For more information, please call the Rayz at (361) 814-PUCK.

The Rayz are offering special discounted tickets to the New Year's Eve Event that begin at only $6. Included with the ticket price is admission to the game and post-game party plus party favors to be given away throughout the evening. Everyone in South Texas is invited to this special event at the American Bank Center on New Years Eve. Fans are encouraged to dress for the occasion with the Rayz and take advantage of the $29.99 tuxedo rental available at Tuxedo Junction in Sunrise Mall. Fans are also reminded of the special start time of 8:05pm. The post-game party will begin immediately after the Rayz game concludes.

Join the Rayz at 8:05pm on December 31st for the Biggest and Coolest Party in the Coastal Bend. The Rayz would like to wish all of South Texas, and all of their fans a safe and Happy New Year.

 

[truebluefan]

Sundogs at Eagles Game Postponed

PRESCOTT VALLEY, Ariz. - The Arizona Sundogs Hockey Club, in conjunction with the Central Hockey League has announced that its game against the Colorado Eagles in Loveland, Colorado on Friday, December 22 has been postponed. It will be rescheduled for a later date.

"Extreme weather conditions in Colorado have forced the cancellation of our flight to Colorado," said Sundogs Manager of Public Relations Shane Ferraro. "Bussing is not a viable option due to road conditions virtually shutting down I-25, the main route from New Mexico to Denver."

The Central Hockey League will work with both the Arizona Sundogs and the Colorado Eagles to identify a suitable date for both clubs to make up the game.

"While it is never our preference to adjust team schedules, the safety of CHL fans, athletes and employees takes clear precedence in this situation," said CHL President Brad Treliving. "Ongoing extreme winter weather conditions in the state of Colorado have created significant travel concerns that have necessitated these adjustments."

Please check arizonasundogs.com: Splash for more information as it becomes available.

 

[truebluefan]

Rage in the Community

Broomfield, Colo. - Although the Holiday Blizzard of 2006 forced the Central Hockey League to cancel tonight's Rocky Mountain Rage game against the Lubbock Cotton Kings (it will be made-up on Feb. 28 at Broomfield Event Center), before the storm hit the Rage players continued to visit area schools. The team's First Annual Teddy Bear Toss last Saturday at Broomfield Event Center was also a great success.

On Dec. 14. the Rage visited with kindergartners and first graders at Broomfield's Cotton Creek Elementary School.

The Rage held their First Annual Teddy Bear Toss on Dec. 16 during their game against the Colorado Eagles. Fans tossed a total of 338 brand new stuffed animals onto the ice during the first intermission, which were collected and donated to the North Metro Fire Rescue District and the Broomfield Police Department Santa Cop program.

The Rage are next scheduled to take the ice on Saturday, Dec. 23, against the Eagles in Loveland at the Budweiser Events Center. Following another road date on Dec. 27 against the Arizona Sundogs, the team will then return home to Broomfield Event Center for their first look at the Austin Ice Bats on Fri., Dec. 29, at 7:05 p.m.

Single-game tickets for all Rage home games are on sale with prices ranging from $15-$40 per seat. Tickets may be purchased online at broomfieldeventcenter.com: Home, by calling 303-410-TIXS, or at the Broomfield Event Center box office (11450 Broomfield Ln., Broomfield, 80021). Season tickets, mini-packs, and group plans are also available for the 2006-07 season by calling 303-439-RAGE. For more information, visit Rocky Mountain Rage.

 

[truebluefan]

Bugs Sign New Goaltender

BOSSIER CITY, LA -- The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs today announced the signing of goaltender Adam Hanna. Hanna joins the team after an MCL injury sidelined goaltender Ken Carroll in practice earlier this week.

Hannah joins the Mudbugs after appearing in two games with the Long Beach Ice Dogs of the ECHL. He played for three years at St. John's University in Collegetown, Minnesota. It was there he set school records for save percentage, goals against average and shutouts. Hannah was the recipient of the Sid Watson award for the most outstanding player in all of Division III hockey in 2006.

"We're excited to add Adam Hanna to the roster," said Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations Scott Muscutt. "You can never replace a goaltender the caliber of Ken Carroll, but we're looking forward to Adam joining John DeCaro in net during Kenny's absence."

The Mudbugs are back in action tomorrow night when they play host to Memphis at CenturyTel Center. Group tickets are available by calling 318-752-BUGS. Tickets for the 2007 All-Star banquet and game are also on sale. Visit mudbugshockey.com: Splash or call 318-752-BUGS for more details.

 

[truebluefan]

Colorado blizzard Impacts Tulsa

The heavy snowstorm and blizzard like conditions ripping through Colorado have forced postponement of the Tulsa Oilers game with the Wichita Thunder for Friday December 22nd.

Wichita was to have originally played Colorado on Wednesday night, and that game has now been postponed twice, with the teams trying to play that game on Friday. Travel conditions will prohibit Wichita from making it to Tulsa for Friday's scheduled contest with the Oilers. No make-up date for Friday's game has yet been established.

"While it is never our preference to adjust team schedules, the safety of CHL fans, athletes and employees takes clear precedence in this situation," CHL Brad Treliving said in announcing the postponement. "Ongoing extreme winter weather conditions in the state of Colorado have created significant travel concerns that have necessitated these adjustments."

Fans with tickets for Friday's game will have those tickets honored for the make-up date, when it is established. The Oilers season ticket holder party scheduled for Friday will take place after Saturday's game with the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs. The Saturday game with Bossier-Shreveport is set for 7:35 p.m. is not affected by the Friday postponement.

This is the second game this month the Oilers have had postponed due to severe weather conditions. The December 1 game with Oklahoma City will be played Sunday January 7th at 3:05 p.m. at the Tulsa Convention Center.

The Oilers next home game is the game against Bossier-Shreveport Saturday at 7:35 p.m. Tickets are available at the Carson Attraction box office located in the Tulsa Convention Center, all Drug Mart locations and by calling (918) 584-2000.

 

[truebluefan]

Bees make foursome of transactions

Hidalgo, Texas --- The Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees (Central Hockey League) today signed right wing Doug Orr and waived left wing Matt Rogers. The Bees also activated right wing Rob Voltera from the injured reserve list and placed left wing Maxime Mathieu on the 14-day injured reserve.

Orr comes from an athletic family, including his uncle Bobby Orr, his mother Teresa McDonnell and aunt Nancy McDonnell, both of whom were Olympians for Canada. Bobby Orr is a Hockey Hall of Fame defenseman and revolutionized the position during his days with the Boston Bruins. Doug's mother (Teresa McDonnell-Orr) was a three-time Canadian Olympian in artistic gymnastics. She competed at the 1968 Mexico Summer Games, the 1972 Munich Summer Games and the 1976 Montreal Summer Games. Her best result was ninth in the team event in 1976.

A 25-year-old forward, Orr had 15 goals and 31 points in 26 games during his fifth and final season at McGill University in Montreal in 2005-06. In 17 pro games this season with Arizona and Youngstown of the CHL, Orr has compiled seven points (5-2-7) and 26 PIM. He is expected to be in the lineup Friday night as the Bees play at Odessa.

Rogers posted two goals in six games with Rio Grande Valley.

Voltera has missed the last six games for the Bees, Mathieu goes on the injured reserve as the team-leader with 90 PIM.

Rio Grande Valley plays a pair of games before the Christmas break beginning this Friday at Odessa (7 p.m.). The team travels to Laredo on Saturday night (7:30 p.m.). Catch both games live on ESPN Radio 1240 AM and killerbeehcokey.com. The team returns home for two games vs. Laredo on December 29 and 30.

Killer Bees tickets are available at the Dodge Arena Box Office, online at killerbeehockey.com, and by phone at 866-RIO-TIXX. Tickets can also be purchased at The Boot Jack Valley Wide, Valley Yamaha, Melhart Music Center, Lionel's Western Wear Weslaco, or Lone Star National Bank.

 

[truebluefan]

Scorpions team store opens early Friday

[ RIO RANCHO, N.M.]- If you forgot to get your holiday gifts, don't worry because the Scorpions have you covered. The Scorpions team store, located inside the Santa Ana Star Center, will open at 3 p.m. on Friday.

The Scorpions Team Store carries a variety of great gifts for the holiday season. Scorpions fans of all ages, shapes and sizes can get their hands on jerseys that look just like the Scorpions' players.

There are also a wide variety of t-shirts, sweatshirts and hats to wear around New Mexico showing your Scorpions pride. There are also items like key chains, pucks, mini sticks and much more inside the Scorpions Team Store.

Stop by the Santa Ana Star Center , located at 3001 Civic Centre Circle in Rio Rancho starting at 3 p.m. to get your last minute holiday shopping finished.

The Scorpions return to home ice Friday night for the annual "Teddy Bear Toss" All fans are invited to bring teddy bears to the game to throw on the ice after the Scorpions score their first goal. The Lubbock Cotton Kings will be in town for the 7:35 p.m. face-off. Be sure to visit GetTix.Net for the "All In Holiday Internet Special" for great deals on tickets.

 

[truebluefan]

Hounds Win in Shootout over Ice Bats

The Youngstown SteelHounds continued their winning ways on Thursday night as they defeated the Austin Ice Bats 2-1 in a shootout at home. The first home game since November 25th was a nail biter all the way as through two periods there was nothing but goose eggs on the scoreboard.

The third period though is where the scoring finally got going as John Wheaton scored his seventh of the season at the 8:07 mark to put Y-Town up 1-0. The lead would not last though as under two minutes later Julian Smith would score his fifth of the season to tie it up at one and force overtime.

The game would eventually go to a shootout and would see just one goal scored by the SteelHound's Jeff Christian (15) to give Youngstown the 2-1 victory over the Austin Ice Bats. The goal along with an assist on the Y-Town first goal extended Christian's scoring streak to 11 games and he now stands alone as the leagues top scorer with 44 points.

The goaltending was nothing short of superb as Austin's Miguel Beaudry would make 24 saves while Youngstown net minder, David Currie improved to 6-5-1 on the season with another masterful performance making 31 saves on 32 shots. With the win Youngstown now pulls within four points of Memphis for first place in the CHL Northeast Division.

The SteelHounds and the Ice Bats will go at it again tonight and Saturday night at the Chevrolet Centre with both games starting at 7:05pm.

 

[truebluefan]

Cotton Kings Road Game Preview

12/22/06 -LUBBOCK COTTON KINGS (11-9-2) @ NEW MEXICO SCORPIONS (9-9-3)

- 8:35 PM SANTA ANA STAR CENTER RADIO- KKAM 1340 AM

GAME ON !

The Lubbock Cotton Kings could not make their way to Broomfield, Colorado for their originally scheduled game on Thursday, but they were able to get to Rio Rancho, New Mexico for tonight's contest against the New Mexico Scorpions. The Cotton Kings are looking for their second consecutive win overall and to end a three-game road winless streak. Lubbock sits a standing-point atop the Southwest Division, which is a crowded division with four standing points separating first place from fifth place. Just three standing-points back from Lubbock is the New Mexico Scorpions. The Scorps' are the hottest team in the CHL's Southern Conference over the past ten games, posting a 6-1-3 record in that span. New Mexico has played their last four games at home and have a 3-0-1 record in the four games. They have picked up standing points in their last eight games and have not suffered a regulation loss since November 24th.

THE SERIES

The game will be the second of eight match-ups on the season between the two teams and the second of four at the Santa Ana Star Center. New Mexico won the prior match-up this season 4-2 on November 9th for a 1-0-0 season series lead, and this match-up will be the 59th all-time meeting. Kyle Nosan had each of Lubbock's goals in the loss. Lubbock holds a 28-22-8 all-time record against the Scorps with former King Jan Melichercik leading the all-time series with 16 goals and 33 assists for 49 points, while New Mexico barely holds the season advantage with a 29-20-8 mark. Former Scorpion Peter Ambroziak leads the series offensively with 59 points (20g,39a).

THE LAST TIME

11/9/06 - Lubbock Cotton Kings forward Kyle Nosan scored a pair of goals, but it wasn't enough, as the New Mexico Scorpions registered four unanswered goals to defeat the Lubbock Cotton Kings 4-2 at Santa Ana Star Center.

Nosan opened the scoring early, lighting the lamp 1:46 into the contest. The Kings extended their lead to 2-0 at the close of the period, as Nosan picked up his second goal of the game by converting on an odd-man rush with an assist from Bobby Brown with 46 seconds remaining in the period. Unfortunately for the Kings, their offense would end there.

New Mexico changed goaltenders in the start of the second period by replacing Walter Bartholomaeus with Brad Smith. The change led to motivation for the Scorpions, who bounced back and tallied a pair of goals to tie the game 2-2. Bob Kukulka put the Scorps' on the board 7:46 into the period with his first goal of the season and Ryan Macleod converted on a shorthanded breakaway, extending his goal scoring streak to six games, 3:44 later. The Cotton Kings were held scoreless in the second period for the first time this season.

The Scorpions took the lead 8:12 into the third period with a goal by Aaron MacInnis, who put the puck past JF Perras for a 3-2 advantage. Lubbock's shot at coming back ended with 1:24 remaining, as a puck sent around the boards took a wild bounce off a partition and landed onto the stick of Christopher Robertson, who put the puck into the back of the net to close the game's scoring.

Each team was scoreless on the power play, with Lubbock going 0 for 4 and New Mexico going 0 for 2. It is the first game this season the Kings have not scored and allowed a power play goal in a game. Smith earned the win in net stopping all 19 shots on goal, while Perras suffered the loss allowing 4 goals on 31 shots. The Kings out-shot the Scorpions 33-31 in the loss.

ROSTER CHANGES

Neither the Lubbock Cotton Kings nor the New Mexico Scorpions have made any roster moves in preparation for tonight's game.

STANDINGS

Kings - 24 points, 1st place, Southwest Division.

Scorpions - 21 points, 4th place, 3 points back, Southwest Division.

TEAM LEADERS

Kings - Points: 24 Simon Watson, Goals: 14 Simon Watson, Assists: 12 Kyle Nosan/ Trevor Weisgerber, Penalty Minutes: 75 Paul McBrien.

Scorpions - Points: 24 Lance Herauf, Goals: 11 Christopher Robertson, Assists: 21 Rob Guinn, Penalty Minutes: 84 Craig Macdonald.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Kings - Power play: 13.7% 13th, Penalty killing: 88.6% 3rd.

Scorpions - Power play: 19.4% 6th, Penalty killing: 74.8% 17th.

GOALTENDERS

Kings - JF Perras (5-4-1, 1 SO, 2.40), Kyle Stanton (6-5-1, 1 SO, 3.23).

Scorpions - David Cacciola (5-0-0, 0 SO, 3.00), Brad Smith (2-3-1, 0 SO, 4.23), Scott Reid (0-0-1, 0 SO, 3.82).

 

[truebluefan]

RiverKings at Mudbugs Preview

Friday, December 22

Memphis RiverKings (16-4-3, 35 pts, 1st NE Div) @ Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs (10-9-4, 24 pts, 3rd NE Div) 7:05

Radio: Sports 56 WHBQ (AM 560)

Webcast: riverkings.com

TV: chltv.com

RECENT SCORES

Friday, 12/15 RiverKings 6 Wichita 2

Saturday, 12/16 RiverKings 4 Tulsa 3 SO

Wichita 3 Bossier-Shreveport 2 OT

Tuesday, 12/19 RiverKings 4 Oklahoma City 3

THE MATCH UP

The RiverKings play the first of seven straight on the road tonight. Tonight's game is game five of the 11 game season series between the RiverKings and Mudbugs, the second in Bossier City. Memphis has gone 3-0-1 in the first four games, winning the first three before Bossier-Shreveport pulled out an overtime win at the DCC on 12/9. The RiverKings enter the game tonight on a four game winning streak and with the best road record in the CHL at 5-1-0. The RiverKings are 8-1-1 in their last 10 games and lead the Northeast Division by four points over Youngstown. The Mudbugs are tied with Tulsa for fourth in the division, trailing the front-running RiverKings by 11 points. The Mudbugs have played just one game since that OT game at the DCC on 12/9, while the RiverKings have played and won four. The Mudbugs lost all-star goalie Ken Carroll for possibly eight weeks to a knee injury earlier this week and signed rookie goalie Adam Hanna to backup new number one John DeCaro. The RiverKings are 32-24-5 in the all-time series, 13-13-2 at Bossier-Shreveport' CenturyTel Center.

Upcoming:

Saturday, December 23

Memphis RiverKings (16-4-3, 35 pts, 1st NE Div) @ Wichita Thunder (10-10-2, 22 pts, 3rd NW Div) 7:05

Radio: Sports 56 WHBQ (AM 560)

Webcast: riverkings.com

Tuesday, December 26

Memphis RiverKings (16-4-3, 35 pts, 1st NE Div) @ Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs (10-9-4, 24 pts, 3rd NE Div) 7:05

Radio: Sports 56 WHBQ (AM 560)

Webcast: riverkings.com

TV: chltv.com

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RiverKings tickets make great Christmas gifts. Flex Plan packages start at only $88 for 8 Red Level Coupons that can be used for any home game. Ticket Gift Certificates are also available.

Call 662-342-1755 for more information.

Don't miss the next Kevin McClelland Show on Tuesday, January 2 LIVE from Beef O' Brady's in Southaven from 6-7 on Sports 56 WHBQ.

RiverKings Single-Game Tickets for all 2006-2007 home games are on sale now at the DeSoto Civic Center box office and at all TicketMaster locations.

UPCOMING PROMOTIONS: Sunday, January 7 --- Post Game Skate with Players; Tuesday, January 9 --- WMC TV Channel 5 CheerStix to first 1,500 fans; Friday, January 12 --- Cellular South Darrell Stoddard Mini Bobbleheads to first 1,500 fans; Post Game Skate; Friday, January 19 --- RiverKings Drawsting Backpacks to the first 1,500 fans; Post Game Skate

After every RiverKings home game, the party heads to the new Buffalo Wild Wings on Airways in Southaven, the official Post Game Hang-Out of the RiverKings.

• Discuss this story on the Central Hockey League message board...

 

[truebluefan]

Holiday celebration at Rayz game

With Christmas just three days away and the holiday season in full stride, the Rayz would like to remind all of South Texas to join them for the Holiday Celebration Game, presented by Champion Honda on Saturday Night, December 23rd. It's also a special Caller-Times Family Night, offering free tickets to kids 12 and under with the purchase of a regular priced adult ticket. The Rayz host the Odessa Jackalopes at 7:05pm at the American Bank Center, and to help celebrate the festivities the Rayz will welcome youngsters to the game at no charge. The Rayz also will welcome Santa Claus to entertain fans. Additionally, the Rayz will make the holidays even sweeter for one special fan when they give away a $500 shopping spree at the game. General priced tickets begin at just $10, and every full price paid ticket will come with up to two child tickets absolutely free for kids 12 and under. For more information, please call the Rayz at (361) 814-PUCK.

This Saturday night at 7:05pm at the American Bank Center the Rayz will host the Holiday Celebration Game, presented by Champion Honda. Fans simply need to show up to the American Bank Center box office and purchase any regular priced ticket and they will receive two free child tickets in the same section. Don't miss Saturday night's game at the American Bank Center. The game is perfect for holiday parties and families. For more information, please call the Rayz at (361) 814-PUCK.

 

[truebluefan]

Hatch leaves Maddox Sports

SOUTHAVEN --- The Memphis RiverKings front office is losing a four-year employee as Matt Hatch has accepted the position of Assistant General Manager with the Pee Dee Cyclones in Florence, SC. The Cyclones are a second year franchise in the Southern Professional Hockey League.

"I have enjoyed my four years with Maddox Sports and the RiverKings," Hatch said. "I would like to personally thank Ms. Robin Costa, Carol Ayers and the Maddox and RiverKings staffs for all their support. I wish them the very best and continued success."

"We would like to thank Matt for all his help over the years," RiverKings Director of Business Operations Dave Mattice said. "Matt was always the first one to jump on the bus when things needed done, from furniture moving to the youth hockey skates being sharpened. He has a great work ethic and I am sure he will do well in his next step in his career. We wish him well."

Hatch came to Maddox Sports to work for the RiverKings and Xplorers in early 2003. He has performed the duties of corporate sales and development, facility liaison, not to mention the other countless responsibilities that are shared by the front office staff of a professional minor league sports franchise.

"I look forward to the challenges that await me in Florence and hope that I will have as much success there as I have had here," the West Middlesex, PA native said. "I have always stated that I would like to be the General Manager of an organization and this opportunity affords me the next step toward my dream."

Hatch's last day in the RiverKings' office will be Friday, December 21. He begins his new job with the Cyclones on January 2.

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RiverKings tickets make great Christmas gifts. Flex Plan packages start at only $88 for 8 Red Level Coupons that can be used for any home game. Ticket Gift Certificates are also available.

Call 662-342-1755 for more information.

Don't miss the next Kevin McClelland Show on Tuesday, January 2 LIVE from Beef O' Brady's in Southaven from 6-7 on Sports 56 WHBQ.

RiverKings Single-Game Tickets for all 2006-2007 home games are on sale now at the DeSoto Civic Center box office and at all TicketMaster locations.

UPCOMING PROMOTIONS: Sunday, January 7 --- Post Game Skate with Players; Tuesday, January 9 --- WMC TV Channel 5 CheerStix to first 1,500 fans; Friday, January 12 --- Cellular South Darrell Stoddard Mini Bobbleheads to first 1,500 fans; Post Game Skate; Friday, January 19 --- RiverKings Drawsting Backpacks to the first 1,500 fans; Post Game Skate

After every RiverKings home game, the party heads to the new Buffalo Wild Wings on Airways in Southaven, the official Post Game Hang-Out of the RiverKings.

 

[truebluefan]

Postponement Reminder

The Oiolers game scheduled ofr Friday Dec. 22 with Wichita is postponed due to Wichita being stranded in Colorado. The make up date will be determined at a later time.

The Oilers will play the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs at 7:35 p.m. on Saturday December 23 at the Tulsa Convention Center.

 

[truebluefan]

Dodge CHL All-Star Contest Winners Announced

BOSSIER CITY, LA -- The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs today announced the winners of the 2007 Dodge CHL All-Star Fan Contest. Seventeen winners were selected from entries turned in at Dodge Dealers in the 17 CHL markets and from mail entries. Each of the 17 winners will receive a jersey of their favorite CHL team. Four of the 17 have won a trip for two to Bossier-Shreveport, LA for the 2007 All-Star Game on Wednesday, January 17th. The 17 jersey winners are:

- Monica Barnett, Corpus Christi, TX (Corpus Christi Rayz)
- Lana Thomas, Austin, TX (Austin Ice Bats)
- Eugenio Espasza, Odessa, TX (Odessa Jackalopes)
- Johnathan Kyle, Youngstown, OH (Youngstown Steelhounds)
- Sandy Zieman, El Dorado, KS (Wichita Kansas)
- Ken Kokoszka, Denver, CO (Rocky Mountain Rage)
- Bill Willey, Lubbock, TX (Lubbock Cotton Kings)
- Michael More, Prescott, AZ (Arizona Sundogs)
- Guadalupe Cantu, Hidalgo, TX (Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees)
- Kip Kabler, Tulsa, OK (Tulsa Oilers)
- Rod Anthony, Bossier City, LA (Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs)
- Ashley Marler, Amarillo, TX (Amarillo Gorillas)
- Kevin Neptune, Oklahoma City, OK (Oklahoma City Blazers)
- Adam Ballard, Memphis, TN (Memphis RiverKings)
- Rosie Segura, Laredo, TX (Laredo Bucks)
- David Savannah, Rio Rancho, NM (New Mexico Scorpions)
- Lincoln Sherman, Denver, Colorado (Colorado Eagles)

The following four winners from the pool of 17 have won airfare, accommodations and tickets to the 2007 CHL All-Star Game at CenturyTel Center on January 17th, 2007. These four winners will compete for the Grand Prize, the use of a Dodge Magnum for a year and a chance to win the car outright:

- Ashley Marler
- Rod Anthony
- Kevin Neptune
- Monica Barnett

The Mudbugs and the Central Hockey League would like to thank Dodge for their help in making this contest possible. Tickets to the 2007 All-Star Banquet on January 16th are on sale. Pierre Lacroix, President of the Colorado Avalanche, will speak at the event. Comedian Jim Breuer, formerly of Saturday Night Live, will also entertain the crowd. Call 318-752-BUGS to reserve your seats today or log on to mudbugshockey.com: Splash and click on the banquet ad on the left hand side of the home page.

 

[truebluefan]

MYHL Skate-A-Thon December 30

SOUTHAVEN --- The Memphis Youth Hockey League (MYHL) will be hosting their 2nd annual Le Bonheur/MYHL Skate-A-Thon on Saturday, December 30 at the DeSoto Civic Center. The MYHL, a youth organization, has taken the theme of "Kids Skating for Kids" as it raises funds for Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. The public is invited to come out and take part to help raise money for Le Bonheur and the MYHL.

"The skate-a-thon helps MYHL raise money for our travel teams and the Jr. Riverkings Recreation League," Jr. RiverKings/MYHL Recreation League Director Jack Rogers said. "But probably more important, it gives our kids the opportunity to give back to the community, giving MYHL and its youth hockey players another way to emulate the RiverKings and Maddox Sports organizations by placing emphasis on charity and community service."

The activities on Saturday include high school alumni games, two public skates and a "pledge per lap" skate-a-thon where MYHL players will each skate 100 laps.

The alumni games will take place in the afternoon and feature three games featuring past and present players from Christian Brothers, Collierville and Houston High Schools.

The two public skates will run from 6pm to 7:15 p.m. and from 8:45 p.m. to 10 p.m. The admission for the public skates is $10 and that includes skate rental.

The Skate -A-Thon for the MYHL players will occur between 7:15 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. MYHL players have set a goal of each raising $125 in pledges for the 100 laps that they will skate during the event.

For the first annual Skate-A-Thon last year, over $9,000 was raised through the public skates and the Skate-A-Thon, with half going to Le Bonheur. This year, the MYHL has established a goal of raising over $15,000.

"Not only are we raising money for Le Bonheur via the Skate-a-thon, we are planning for our youth players to visit the hospital," Rogers said. "Le Bonheur Children's Hospital is very important to our community."

MYHL coach Dave Stevens added, "These kids begin to learn at every age to provide leadership for both the community and hockey organization. It's also a humbling experience for those that visit the hospital and it motivates them to help as much as they can."

For more information about the Le Bonheur/MYHL Skate-A-Thon, visit the MYHL website at Memphis Youth Hockey or email Dave or Deb Stevens at [email protected] or [email protected].