[truebluefan]

Aces blank Grizz, 7-0

ANCHORAGE, Alaska - Alaska scored four goals in the first nine minutes and rode Derek Gustafson's 26 saves to a 7-0 rout of Utah in front of 5,225 Wednesday at Sullivan Arena.

Matt Robinson and Joe Talbot each scored twice and assisted on another goal, while Kimbi Daniels scored once and helped out on three others. Mike Scott set up both of Robinson's goals, the first of which came at 3:49 after a brilliant feed out of the right corner that Robinson re-directed past beleaguered Grizzlies goaltender Rob McVicar, who faced 37 shots. Just 29 seconds later, Talbot rifled the first of his two by McVicar on the blocker side from the left circle. Olivier Filion scored the first of Alaska's three power play goals (and his fourth in five games) in a five-on-three situation at 8:18 to extend the lead to 3-0, and 50 seconds later Talbot tipped home a Matt Shasby drive to put Utah in dire straits.

The score remained 4-0 until the midway point of the second period, when Steven Later, making his return from a three-game league suspension, snapped a wrist shot past McVicar on another power play at 9:37. Robinson stuffed home Scott's dish from behind the Utah net to build the margin to 6-0 at 8:25 of the third period, and Daniels capped a four-point night by scoring a power play goal with 2:55 remaining.

That goal marked Alaska's seventh of the night and clinched a "Lucky Seven to Vegas" trip for Denise Saucier of Palmer, who, along with a companion, will be headed to Las Vegas for an upcoming Aces-Wranglers series. The contest also includes $700 spending money, courtesy of title sponsor KeyBank.

The Aces, currently leading the West Division by four points, are 6-1 against Utah (8-20-3) this season and 19-9-2 overall. Both teams will practice tomorrow before colliding twice more at Sullivan Arena Friday and Saturday night at 7:15 p.m. Live coverage of both games on KFQD 750 AM begins at 6:55. Tickets for this weekend's games are available at alaskaaces.com: Home, all Fred Meyer locations, or by calling 258-ACES.

 

[truebluefan]

Bombers Promotions This Weekend

Dayton, OH- The Dayton Bombers of the ECHL announced today that they will hold their first jersey auction of the season following their game against the Wheeling Nailers on Saturday, January 6, at 7:00 p.m. The Bombers also announced they will give away the first in a series of player card sets on Sunday, January 7, at 5:00 p.m. against the Trenton Titans.

Following Saturday's game against the Nailers at the EJ Nutter Center, the Bombers will auction off special tuxedo style jerseys they wore during their 4-3 victory over the Reading Royals in Reading on New Years Day. All proceeds from the auction will benefit the Dayton Bombers Charitable Foundation.

When the Bombers take on the Titans on Sunday, the first 1,500 fans in the Nutter Center will receive Bombers player cards. This will be the first in a series of four player card giveaways throughout the season. The other three player card sets will be given away during the Bombers three remaining Sunday home games at the Nutter Center: February 18 vs. Columbia, March 4 vs. Trenton and April 1 vs. Trenton.

Great season ticket locations and sponsorship opportunities are still available! Individual game tickets are on sale now. For more information contact the Bombers office at 775-4747 or log on to Home Page. All Bombers broadcasts can be heard through the B2 Networks on line at ECHL - Premier 'AA' Hockey League or Home Page. The Dayton Bombers are the proud affiliate to the "AAA" Syracuse Crunch of the AHL and the Columbus Blue Jackets of the NHL.

 

[truebluefan]

Fleming selected to coach 2007 All-Star Team

The Florida Everblades announced today that Head Coach Gerry Fleming has been selected as one of the two coaches that will represent the American Conference in the 2007 ECHL All-Star Game in Boise, Idaho.

In his sixth season as head coach and director of player development, Fleming is the second coach in team history and the longest-tenured ECHL coach, having been named to the position on June 1, 2001. Fleming, who will join Texas Wildcatters head coach Malcolm Cameron behind the American Conference bench, has led the Everblades to the Kelly Cup Finals twice in the last three seasons and to the Kelly Cup Playoffs in all five of his seasons. In his six seasons with Florida, he is 219-125-46 in the regular season and 29-22 in the postseason. When Florida advanced to the Kelly Cup Finals in 2004 it marked the first time that the team had won a postseason series since its inaugural season in 1998-99.

Fleming, who was co-coach of the Southern Conference in the 2003 ECHL All-Star Game, played seven seasons professionally in the Montreal organization primarily with the Canadiens' American Hockey League affiliate in Fredericton, New Brunswick. He scored 112 points (44g-68a) and had 1,142 penalty minutes in 298 games with Fredericton and in 1998 became only the second player in team history to have his jersey retired.

Fleming had two stints in the National Hockey League with Montreal appearing in five games in 1993-94 and six games in 1994-95. He became an assistant coach with Fredericton in 1998-99 and remained with the team when it relocated to Quebec for 1999-2000. He became head coach of Tallahassee in the ECHL in 2000-01 and led the Tiger Sharks to a 38-27-7 record, the third-best record in team history.

The 2007 All-Star break begins on Tuesday, January 16 with the All-Star Skills Competition at 9:05 p.m. eastern time. The 2007 RBK Hockey All-Star Game will take place on Wednesday, January 17 at 9:00 p.m. eastern time. The 15th Annual ECHL All-Star Game and the 10th Annual ECHL All-Star Skills Competition will both be held at Qwest Arena in Boise, Idaho, home of the Idaho Steelheads.

The Florida Everblades, proud affiliate of the Carolina Hurricanes and the Florida Panthers, return to the ice on Friday, January 5 when they host the Charlotte Checkers at 7:30 p.m. from Germain Arena. Florida Everblades individual & group tickets are now available! Reserve your seat for all the exciting action today by calling (239) 948-7825. Visit Florida Everblades - ECHL and Germain Arena for more information on group ticket packages, pricing and upcoming Germain Arena events.

 

[truebluefan]

'Blades swing trade with Pensacola

ESTERO, FL - Florida Everblades President and General Manager Craig Brush along with Head Coach Gerry Fleming announced today that the team has traded defenseman Niko Tuomi to the Pensacola Ice Pilots for forward Adam Taylor.

Taylor, 22, is currently under contract with the Florida Panthers of the National Hockey League and the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League. The Everblades are the third ECHL team Taylor has skated with this season. The Campbell River, BC native began the season with the Victoria Salmon Kings where he collected six points (1g, 5a) in 15 games before being traded to the Ice Pilots where he notched 11 points (3g, 8a) in 15 games. On December 8, the 6-foot, 200 pound winger notched a goal and an assist against the Everblades in Florida's 7-5 win at Pensacola.

"Adam is a player that will make an immediate impact on our club." Fleming said. "He's a solid player that we feel will contribute right away for us. At the same time it was tough having to move Niko. He's a good player that played hard every night and we wish him nothing but the best."

Taylor, who is expected to be in uniform for the Everblades on Friday night when they host Charlotte, is in his second professional season after making his debut last year. The former 7th round draft pick by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2002 skated in all 72 regular season games last year with the Salmon Kings, picking up 57 points (19g, 38a) and 54 penalty minutes.

Prior to turning pro, Taylor played seven games at the collegiate level with the University of British Columbia in 2005-06 where he totaled eight points (4g, 4a). Taylor spend five seasons at the junior level from 2000-2005 with the Kootenay Ice of the Western Hockey League. During his time with the Ice he scored 65 goals and added 118 assists in 324 games.

Tuomi, 23, heads to Pensacola after notching four points (1g, 3a) in 16 games with the Everblades. The rookie scored his first professional goal on December 12 at Gwinnett. Prior to joining the Everblades the Echo Bay, Ontario native played two seasons at the collegiate level with St. Francis Xavier University where he tallied 13 points (6g, 7a) in 31 games.

The Florida Everblades, proud affiliate of the Carolina Hurricanes and the Florida Panthers, return to the ice on Friday, January 5 when they host the Charlotte Checkers at 7:30 p.m. from Germain Arena. Florida Everblades individual & group tickets are now available! Reserve your seat for all the exciting action today by calling (239) 948-7825. Visit Florida Everblades - ECHL and Germain Arena for more information on group ticket packages, pricing and upcoming Germain Arena events.

 

[truebluefan]

Lee gets called up to AHL

ESTERO, FL - Florida Everblades President and General Manager Craig Brush along with Head Coach Gerry Fleming announced today that defenseman Chris Lee has been called up to the Bridgeport Sound Tigers of the American Hockey League.

Lee, 26, heads to Bridgeport having picked up 18 points (3g, 15a) in 25 games with the Everblades this year. The MacTier, Ontario native is making his second trip to the AHL this year after skating in three games, and picking up one assist with the Albany River Rats from October 16-23.

Lee is in his third professional season, and his third with the Everblades. The former SUNY-Potsdam alum has 82 points (18g, 64a) in 145 career games with the 'Blades. Lee's best season came last year when he tallied 37 points in 52 games and earned a spot on the American Conference All-Star roster for the 2006 ECHL All-Star game.

The Florida Everblades, proud affiliate of the Carolina Hurricanes and the Florida Panthers, return to the ice on Friday, January 5 when they host the Charlotte Checkers at 7:30 p.m. from Germain Arena. Florida Everblades individual & group tickets are now available! Reserve your seat for all the exciting action today by calling (239) 948-7825. Visit Florida Everblades - ECHL and Germain Arena for more information on group ticket packages, pricing and upcoming Germain Arena events.

 

[truebluefan]

'Blades to broadcast via internet only on Saturday

Estero, FL - The Florida Everblades have announced that their upcoming game on Saturday, January 6 will be broadcast via the internet only due to the prior obligations of SportsRadio 770 AM to broadcast the NFL Playoffs.

The Everblades game vs. Charlotte on January 6 will all be available via the internet, which fans can access courtesy of Waterman Broadcasting by visiting Florida Everblades - ECHL or ABC7 Online - Works for You!. The game begins at 7:30 p.m. with the pre-game show starting at 7:10 p.m.

The Florida Everblades, proud affiliate of the Carolina Hurricanes and the Florida Panthers, return to the ice on Friday, January 5 when they host the Charlotte Checkers at 7:30 p.m. from Germain Arena. Florida Everblades individual & group tickets are now available! Reserve your seat for all the exciting action today by calling (239) 948-7825. Visit Florida Everblades - ECHL and Germain Arena for more information on group ticket packages, pricing and upcoming Germain Arena events.

 

[truebluefan]

MacDonald Named Rbk Hockey ECHL Goaltender of the Week

Fresno, Calif. - The Fresno Falcons, in conjunction with the ECHL, announced today that Falcons goaltender Ryan MacDonald has been named the Rbk Hockey ECHL Goaltender of the Week for the week ending December 31.

MacDonald played in all four of the Falcons' games last week, posting a 4-0-0 record to go along with a 1.75 goals-against average and a save percentage of .940, while helping to extend the team's winning streak to seven games. MacDonald has picked up the win in five of the seven games on the Falcons' current winning streak, and is 7-0-1 in his last eight starts.

The 21-year-old has a record of 10-3-1 in his first professional season, and is second in the league with a .928 save percentage, and ranks sixth in the ECHL with a 2.45 goals-against average.

MacDonald becomes the third Falcon goaltender to capture the ECHL's weekly award, joining Jamie Hodson (January 16, 2005) and Brett Jaeger (November 6, 2005)

The Falcons return home on Friday, hosting the Victoria Salmon Kings at 7:30 p.m. The first 3,000 fans in attendance receive a 2007 Falcons Poster Calendar courtesy of Community Medical Center, Dumont Printing, and B95.

Tickets for all Falcons home games can be purchased at the Save Mart Center Box Office, by phone at (559) 485-8497, on-line at Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more, or at any TicketMaster outlet. All Falcons games can be heard on 1550 Sporting News Radio and on-line at fresnofalcons.com: Home starting with the Port of Subs Pre-Game Show 15 minutes prior to game time.

 

[truebluefan]

Atherton named ECHL Player of the Week

Johnstown, PA (January 3, 2007) - The ECHL announced on Wednesday that Johnstown Chiefs rookie defenseman P.J. Atherton is the In Glas Co ECHL Player of the Week for Dec. 25-31, 2006.

The 24-year-old helped the Chiefs close out 2006 with back-to-back wins scoring seven points (2g-5a) in three games. In a 7-1 win at Wheeling on Dec. 30, Atherton scored the game-winning goal and set a career high with four points including his third three-assist game of the season. He had two assists, including on the game-winning goal, in a 5-2 win against Toledo on Dec. 31 for his fifth multiple-point game and fourth multiple-assist game of the year.

Selected in the sixth round (170th overall) by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft and under contract to the Springfield Falcons of the American Hockey League, the 6-foot-2 and 205-pound Atherton is tied for the team lead with two game-winning goals and is third with 17 assists and fourth with 21 points in 28 games. He is tied for second among ECHL defensemen in game-winning goals and is seventh in scoring while among league rookies he is tied for third in assists and is tied for fourth in game-winning goals.

He played four seasons at the University of Minnesota and had 17 points (5g-12a) and 146 penalty minutes in 106 games. He signed with Springfield after completing his season in 2005-06 and had four points (1g-3a) and four penalty minutes in nine games with the Falcons.

On behalf of P.J. Atherton, a case of pucks will be donated to a Johnstown area youth hockey organization by In Glas Co, the exclusive puck supplier for the ECHL. Since beginning its sponsorship of the award in 2000-01, In Glas Co has donated more than 15,000 pucks to youth hockey organizations in ECHL cities.

The next Chiefs home game is Monday, January 15, at 1:00 p.m. against the Wheeling Nailers when the kids have off for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Discounted seats for the MLK day game are available for as low as $8 for school age children! Pick up your tickets for both games at the Cambria County War Memorial box office between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., or by calling the War Memorial box office at 536-5156 or 1 (800) CHF-TIXX.

 

[truebluefan]

Weekend Recap

The Las Vegas Wranglers defeated the Utah Grizzlies 4-1 on Thursday night in front of 4,114 at the Orleans Arena. Las Vegas received goals from four different players as the Wranglers moved into first place in the Pacific Division with the victory. Forwards Tyler Mosienko, Shawn Limpright, and Marco Peluso each scored, as well as defenseman Scott Schoneck. Goalie Marc Magliarditi made 21 saves for the Las Vegas win. The Wranglers outshot Utah 43-22 on the evening.

The Las Vegas Wranglers defeated the Utah Grizzlies 5-2 on Friday night in front of 5,702 fans at the Orleans Arena. Center Tyler Mosienko scored two goals for the Wranglers and Mike McKenna made 27 saves for the win. Kelly Czuys shorthanded goal in the second period gave the Wranglers a 3-1, his second goal of the season turned out to be the game-winner. Winger Ryan Kinasewich tallied a goal and an assist for the Grizzlies in the loss.

The Las Vegas Wranglers defeated the Long Beach Ice Dogs 4-1 in front of 4,063 fans at the Orleans Arena on Monday evening. Lucas Lawson, Jason Krischuk, Steve Crampton, and Chris Neiszner each scored goals for the Wranglers in the win. Wranglers goalie Kevin Nastiuk stopped 17 of 18 shots for the win. Long Beach goalie Brett Jaeger made 35 saves for the Ice Dogs in defeat.

 

[truebluefan]

Ice Dogs push back start time for Sunday's game vs. Las Vegas

LONG BEACH, Calif. - The Long Beach Ice Dogs of the ECHL, a proud affiliate of the Boston Bruins, have announced that the starting time for the January 7, 2007 game vs. the Las Vegas Wranglers has been changed to 6pm.

The Ice Dogs have a CRAZY weekend of promotions planned at the Long Beach Arena this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

The Ice Dogs will be celebrating "Bachelor Party Night" on Friday night's game vs. the Phoenix RoadRunners at 7:30pm. The first 1000 fans will receive an Ice Dogs' bottle opener and the Ice Dogs will be hosting their first ever "Jello Wrestling Olympics" and a FROZEN T-Shirt Contest. As per every Friday night home game, $2 beers and $2 hot dogs will be available. The Ice Dogs will also give-away a PlayStation 3 to one lucky Chuck-a-Puck winner.

Former American Idol contestant, William Hung, will make his Long Beach Arena debut on Saturday night at 7pm when the Ice Dogs host the Fresno Falcons on "Idol Karaoke Night." William will be performing during intermissions and will sign autographs at the conclusion of the hockey game. The Ice Dogs will be holding a Karaoke Contest with prizes to the winner. The Chuck-a-Puck will again feature a PS3 to one lucky fan.

On Sunday, the Ice Dogs will host "Viva Las Vegas Night" at 6pm with the first 1000 fans receiving a deck of Ice Dogs' playing cards. Before the game, the Ice Dogs will be holding a "Charity Casino" to benefit the Long Beach Police Officers Association's Widow and Orphan Fund which is currently assisting Officer Wade and Office Yap and their families. The casino event starts at 5:00pm as attendees will be given gaming chips, which can be played on a variety of Las Vegas style games. These chips will be changed for raffle tickets during the evening, and various prizes will be awarded. A charitable contribution for the Widows and Orphans Fund will be requested. The Ice Dogs will be hosting an Elvis Presley Look-a-Like Contest with the winner receiving a free trip to watch the Ice Dogs play in Las Vegas.

Friday night's game vs. the Phoenix RoadRunners starts at 7:30 pm, with doors opening at 6:00pm. Season tickets and group sales for the 2006-07 season are on sale now. Fans can click on the TEAMLINE logo on The Official Site of the Long Beach Ice Dogs : for a free AUDIO feed or pay $6 for the VIDEO portion of the game. Call (562) ICE-DOGS for visit The Official Site of the Long Beach Ice Dogs : for more information.

 

[truebluefan]

Ice Pilots and Everblades make trade

PENSACOLA, FL -- The Pensacola Ice Pilots, a proud member of the ECHL and affiliate of the Bridgeport Sound Tigers of the American Hockey League and the New York Islanders of the National Hockey League, announced two player moves prior to their game tonight in Charleston against the South Carolina Stingrays.

The Ice Pilots acquired defenseman Niko Tuomi from the Florida Panthers in exchange for forward Adam Taylor. Tuomi is expected to be in the line-up for tonight's game. Tuomi, 23, had one goal and three assists in 16 games for the Everblades. The rookie scored his first professional goal on December 12 in Gwinnett against the Gladiators. Tuomi, a native of Echo Bay, Ontario, played two seasons with St. Francis Xavier University in Canada and had 13 points in 31 games.

Taylor, 22, is currently under contract with the Florida Panthers of the National Hockey League and the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League. The Campbell River, BC native had three goals and eight assists in 15 games for the Ice Pilots, after being acquired from the Victoria Salmon Kings as part of the Derek and Jordan Krestanovich trade.

In other Ice Pilots news, it was announced today that Mario Joly has left the team to accept a lucrative offer in the Quebec Senior Professional Hockey League. It will be Joly's second time that he has played in his native province's league.

The Pensacola Ice Pilots take on the South Carolina Stingrays for the third straight time tonight (Thursday) at the North Charleston Coliseum. Fans can tune into the game on Classic Country AM1620 beginning with Ice Pilots Countdown to Face-off at 5:45 pm. The puck drop follows at 6pm with the voice of the Ice Pilots Denis J. Puska bringing you all of the action. The game is also available on the world wide web at Pensacola Ice Pilots :: Home of your Pensacola Ice Pilots by clicking on the sportsjuice logo and video streamed on the B2 Networks for a nominal fee.

The Ice Pilots return to the Hangar on Saturday night when they host the Gwinnett Gladiators at 7:05 pm. Pensacola has won three of its last four games on home ice, including two in a row, outscoring their opponents 15-9. Sponge Bob Squarepants will be live and in person and fans will want to bring their children to the game to see him.

Tickets are available at the Pensacola Civic Center Box Office and all ticketmaster locations or online at Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more. For further information including group rates call the Ice Pilots office at 432-7825.

 

[truebluefan]

Mercury to pick fifth in dispersal draft

PHOENIX - The Phoenix Mercury will select fifth in a dispersal draft involving the players on the Charlotte Sting roster that will take place Monday, January 8, beginning at 11:00 a.m. local time.

All current Sting players, with the exception of unrestricted free agents Allison Feaster and Tammy Sutton-Brown, are eligible to be selected. Draft order is based on the inverse order of 2006 regular season finish and not the 2007 draft lottery. The complete dispersal draft order is listed below.

1) Chicago Sky

2) Minnesota Lynx

3) New York Liberty

4) San Antonio Silver Stars

5) PHOENIX MERCURY

6) Washington Mystics

7) Seattle Storm

8) Houston Comets

9) Indiana Fever

10) Sacramento Monarchs

11) Detroit Shock

12) Los Angeles Sparks

13) Connecticut Sun

Winners of a franchise-high seven straight to finish 2006, the Phoenix Mercury look to pick up where they left off led by All-Stars Diana Taurasi and Cappie Pondexter in the record-shattering offense of head coach Paul Westhead that scored a WNBA-record 87.1 points per game. Under the direction of new general manager Ann Meyers Drysdale and owners of the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft, the Mercury open their 11th WNBA season on Saturday, May 19 at 7:00 p.m. at US Airways Center.

 

[truebluefan]

Arpad Mihaly Loaned To Milwaukee Admirals

Reading, PA - The Reading Royals of the ECHL, affiliate of the Los Angeles Kings of the National Hockey League and the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League, today announced that left wing Arpad Mihaly ("AR pahd mih HAW lee") has been loaned to the Milwaukee Admirals of the AHL. Mihaly, (6'4"/220 lbs.) (26), a seventh year pro who was born in Miercurea, Romania, has scored sixteen goals and assisted on twelve others in twenty five games with the Royals this season. In December, Mihaly had two separate stints in the AHL playing a total of five games with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins and Binghamton Senators. Last Friday, Mihaly scored a goal in Binghamton's 5-3 loss to the Rochester Americans.

The Royals head out on the road for four consecutive games beginning on Friday night (7:35 pm) in U.S. Bank Arena against the Cincinnati Cyclones. Royals' game night broadcasts can be heard live on ESPN Radio 1240 am (and on the internet through the Royals' website, www.royalshockey.com), beginning thirty minutes before the opening face-off. Streaming video is also available for $6.00 per game through the B2 Networks, which can be accessed through the Royals' website.

 

[truebluefan]

Busenburg's Back in South Carolina

N. CHARLESTON, S.C. - The South Carolina Stingrays and head coach Jason Fitzsimmons announced today that defenseman Marc Busenburg has been sent back to South Carolina from the Stingray's American Hockey League affiliate, the Hershey Bears. Busenburg, 28, returns to the Stingrays from his second call-up this season to the Bears. He saw two games in his latest stint up north for a total of 11 games in the AHL this year. This total now qualifies him as playoff-eligible for the ECHL. "Having Marc back in the line-up makes us a better team," said Fitzsimmons. "His return comes at a great time as we prepare for the games this weekend." The Worcester, MA native has played 17 games with the Stingrays this season. The 6'1", 190-pound defenseman has ten points on the year on four goals and six assists. The Stingrays have a record of 10-7 with Busenburg on the roster. He is expected to be in the line-up tomorrow night as the Rays face the Pensacola Ice Pilots at the North Charleston Coliseum. In other news, emergency backup goaltender Jorge Alves has been signed to a contract by the Stingrays. The 5'9", 185-pound Alves is a native of Boston, MA, and played one game with the Stingrays last year without a decision. He has yet to play a game this season. The Stingrays return home for a 7:05 p.m. game on Thursday against Pensacola at the North Charleston Coliseum for a game that was originally scheduled on January 9. It's Frozen Gopher Night, which features representatives from professional golf associations and the Dunkin' Donuts Million Dollar Chuck-A-Puck. Catch live play-by-play action with Mike Kelly, "Voice of the Stingrays" on ESPN Radio 910 The Team and online at stingrayshockey.com: Home beginning at 6:50 p.m. with the Benito's Pregame Show. Watch the game live on the web telecast for $6 each at stingrayshockey.com: Home, courtesy of B2 Networks. Don't miss the fast-paced, action-packed, family affordable fun! Purchase your flex package today. You pick the games; you pocket the savings! Call 744-2248 to talk to a ticket sales manager for more information. Individual tickets can be purchased at the North Charleston Coliseum box office, by calling Ticketmaster at 554-6060 and online at Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more. Discounted groups tickets, birthday packages, Kids Club information and fundraiser opportunities are available by calling 744-2248 or by visiting online at stingrayshockey.com: Home. Stingrays Hockey - A Whole Lot Cooler!

 

[truebluefan]

Stingrays Take on Ice Pilots for Third Game in a Row Tonight

N. CHARLESTON, S.C. - The South Carolina Stingrays and Pensacola Ice Pilots will take the ice tonight at the North Charleston Coliseum at 7:05 p.m. This is the fifth meeting between the two teams this season and the third in a row. The Rays are 3-1-0 against Pensacola this year.

The last time the teams met, the Ice Pilots got off to a quick three goal lead and held on to defeat the Stingrays 7-4, including an empty net goal with nine seconds left in the game. Pensacola right winger Matt Wirll scored a hat trick in the effort and former Stingrays John Hecimovic added a goal as well.

When the teams met in South Carolina on New Year's Eve, it was a different story. Six different Stingrays players scored and left winger Josh Anderson scored twice in the Stingrays 7-2 victory.

Pensacola is led by Wirll with seven points against the Rays this season and Evan Schwabe leads the attach against the Ice Pilots with six points on four goals and two assists.

Tonight is the Frozen Gopher Challenge with representatives from the PGA, LPGA, and Senior PGA in attendance along with local golf course Wescott Plantation. You can stop by their table outside Section 110 for your chance to win a free lesson, meal, and round of golf for four people.

Listen to all the action live with Voice of the Rays Mike Kelly on ESPN Radio 910 the Team and online at stingrayshockey.com: Home starting with the Benito's Pre-game Show at 6:50 p.m. Watch the game live on the web telecast for $6 each at stingrayshockey.com: Home, courtesy of B2 Networks. STINGRAYS HOCKEY - A WHOLE LOT COOLER!

 

[truebluefan]

Cichocki Selected to ECHL All-Star Game as Coach For National Conference

STOCKTON, Calif. - Stockton Thunder head coach Chris Cichocki has been selected as a Coach for the National Conference team at the 2007 RBK Hockey ECHL All-Star Game in Boise, Idaho, Thunder team president Dan Chapman announced today in conjunction with the ECHL.

Currently in his second year as Head Coach of the Thunder and his sixth season in the ECHL head coaching ranks, Cichocki will join Las Vegas Wranglers head coach Glen Gulutzan behind the bench for the contest. Cichocki is making his third ECHL All-Star Game appearance as a Coach and previously made two appearances with the Southern Conference while serving as Head Coach for the Arkansas RiverBlades in 2001 and 2003.

"Chris is very deserving of this selection and to be voted upon by his peers is the ultimate measurement of how he is respected as a coach throughout the league," said Chapman. "He has done a tremendous job of making the Thunder a contender in a very short period of time and our entire organization is thrilled for him."

Two coaches were named per conference, with one having the best winning percentage in their conference through games of Jan. 2 while the other was selected using a combination of winning percentage and votes from coaches within their own conference. The game will be played on Wednesday, January 17 beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT at Qwest Arena, with the 10th annual ECHL All-Star Skills Competition to be held on Tuesday, January 16 at 6:00 p.m.

Cichocki was named the first head coach in Thunder history on May 11, 2005, joining the Thunder after serving as an assistant coach with the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League from February 2005 until the end of the 2004-05 season.

Cichocki was Head Coach and General Manager with the Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL in 2003-04 and was Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations with ECHL's Arkansas RiverBlades from 2000-2003. He has twice guided his teams to the Kelly Cup Playoffs, including the 2002-03 season when Arkansas was 37-24-11 and set team records with 37 wins and 85 points. Cichocki was Associate Head Coach and Director of Player Personnel for Cincinnati of the International Hockey League after spending two seasons as the team's Assistant Coach.

Cichocki's professional playing career spanned 13 seasons, including stints with the Detroit Red Wings and New Jersey Devils of the National Hockey League, scoring 23 points (11g-12a) in 68 games. The right wing's career-best 36 goals came with the American Hockey League's Utica Devils in 1987-88. He scored 574 points (280g-294a) in 800 career games. Cichocki played three years of college hockey at Michigan Tech University, scoring 121 points (67g-54a) in 116 career games, and was signed by the Detroit Red Wings as a free agent in June 1985.

The honor marks the sixth member of the Thunder roster or organizational staff headed to the All-Star Game, with an ECHL-high four Stockton players headed to Boise.

Center Nathan Martz and defenseman Beau Geisler were named to the National Conference starting lineup, while goaltender Devan Dubnyk and right wing Troy Bodie garnered selections to the National Conference team in their professional rookie seasons. Additionally, Thunder play-by-play broadcaster Mike Benton was selected to the radio broadcast announcing team for the All-Star Game which will be produced through NHL Radio.

An ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers, the Thunder drew 228,364 fans to Stockton Arena in its inaugural season, the ECHL's best attendance mark for 2005-06. Thunder season tickets, mini-plans, and individual tickets for the 2006-07 season are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit stocktonthunder.com: Home.

 

[truebluefan]

Coach Cameron off to ECHL All-Star Game 01/03/07 - ECHL (ECHL) Texas Wildcatters

Beaumont, TX (January 3, 2007) Texas Wildcatters Head Coach Malcolm Cameron has been selected to represent the American Conference in the 2007 RBK Hockey ECHL All-Star Game on January 17 in Boise, Idaho. In his first season with the Wildcatters, Coach Cameron has led Texas to the best overall record in the 25 team ECHL. The Wildcatters are currently 20-6-2-1 with 43 points.

The Wildcatters continue to set team records this season. Under Cameron, the Wildcatters won a team record six games in a row from November 18-28 and also had a five game winning streak from November 22-28. Texas won their season opener and home opener for the first time in team history.

Before coming to Southeast Texas, Cameron spent two seasons with the Long Beach Ice Dogs. He took Long Beach to the Kelly Cup Playoffs in both of his seasons. Cameron also coached the Cincinnati Cyclones in the 2002-03 season. His team also reached the playoffs and came within one win of advancing to the Kelly Cup Finals.

The Texas Wildcatters are the ECHL affiliate for the AHL's Houston Aeros. The next Wildcatters home game is on Friday, January 5 vs. the Columbia Inferno. Don't miss any hard-hitting Wildcatters hockey action. 2006-07 Season Tickets are still available. Wildcatters' season tickets start at just $9 per game and feature numerous benefits including free parking and discounted merchandise. Group discount plans are also available by calling (409) 951-5500. For single game tickets stop by the Ford Park Box Office, call (409) 833-7747 or log on to ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit the Wildcatters online at Welcome to WildcattersHockey.com.

 

[truebluefan]

Kopriva Expected to Start Tonight with AHL Houston

Beaumont, TX (January 4, 2007) Texas Wildcatters Vice-President of Hockey Operations and Head Coach Malcolm Cameron announced that goaltender Miroslav Kopriva has been recalled to AHL affiliate Houston. Kopriva is expected to start tonight when the Aeros host the Peoria Rivermen.

Kopriva has played in 12 games with the Wildcatters this season. He is 6-1 with a 2.78 GAA and a .909 save percentage. Kopriva made 28 saves in a 4-1 win against Florida last Thursday. On December 30, he entered the game in a relief appearance and played 25 minutes in Houston, making 10 saves without allowing a goal in a game against San Antonio.

The Texas Wildcatters are the ECHL affiliate for the AHL's Houston Aeros. The next Wildcatters home game is on Friday, January 5 vs. the Columbia Inferno. Don't miss any hard-hitting Wildcatters hockey action. 2006-07 Season Tickets are still available. Wildcatters' season tickets start at just $9 per game and feature numerous benefits including free parking and discounted merchandise. Group discount plans are also available by calling (409) 951-5500. For single game tickets stop by the Ford Park Box Office, call (409) 833-7747 or log on to ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit the Wildcatters online at Welcome to WildcattersHockey.com.

 

[truebluefan]

Storm to Host Blood Drive at Toledo Sports Arena

(Toledo, Ohio) The Toledo Storm, ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks, announced today that they will host a blood drive on Saturday, January 6th from 9am-2pm at Toledo Sports Arena to benefit the American Red Cross.

The Storm are encouraging fans to "Start Your Year Off in the Red" by donating blood to the American Red Cross at Toledo Sports Arena on January 6th. Interested parties should contact Megan Bollman by calling 419-691-0200 ext. 29 to schedule an appointment, although walk-in appointments will be accepted with positive photo I.D. Fans who attend the drive and give blood will also receive a ticket to an upcoming Toledo Storm home game.

Since its founding in 1881 by visionary leader Clara Barton, the American Red Cross has been the nation's premier emergency response organization. As part of a worldwide movement that offers neutral humanitarian care to the victims of war, the American Red Cross distinguished itself by also aiding victims of devastating natural disasters. Over the years, the organization has expanded its services, always with the aim of preventing and relieving suffering.

The Storm host three games in three days this weekend, beginning Friday night at 7:35pm when they will welcome the Trenton Titans to Toledo Sports Arena. They will face the Titans again on Saturday night before finishing the weekend with a Sunday matinee against the Cincinnati Cyclones at 3:05pm. Great tickets for all three games are still available for the game by calling (419) 691-0200, at all Ticketmaster outlets, or at the all-new ToledoStorm.com. Fans can listen to every Toledo Storm Hockey game on 1520 AM Jams or watch the game LIVE online via the B2 Network. Toledo Storm Hockey...Great Team...Great Time!

 

[truebluefan]

Johnson back with Titans

TRENTON, NJ (January 4, 2007) - The Trenton Titans announced today that forward Gregg Johnson has been released from his professional tryout agreement with the Norfolk Admirals (AHL) and returned to the Titans.

Returning from his second stint in the AHL this season, the 24-year old center currently ranks second on the Titans with 16 assists and 27 points in 21 games. His 11 eleven goals also tie him for second on the team with John Laliberte.

Johnson, 5'11", 191 lbs., was scoreless in three games with the Admirals during his latest call-up. He also appeared in Norfolk's contest on October 28 versus the Hartford Wolf Pack and attended the Admirals' training camp earlier this fall.

Now a third-year pro, Johnson is a former eighth round draft pick (#256 overall) of the Ottawa Senators in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. The Windsor, CT-native's first full pro season came in 2004-05 with the Pee Dee Pride where he put up career numbers, leading the squad in goals (27), assists (36) and points (63).

Johnson has appeared in 92 career AHL contests - all but four with the Binghamton Senators - posting eight goals and 22 assists for 30 points and 49 penalty minutes.

TRENTON TITANS - The Buzz is Back!!! - Full and partial season tickets plans for the 2006-07 season are available by calling a Titans Ticket Representative at (609) 599-9500.

The Trenton Titans are a member of the ECHL - North America's Premier "AA" Hockey League. The Trenton Titans are owned and operated by the National Hockey League's New Jersey Devils.