What are your thoughts?
http://www.reddeerexpress.com/express/edition03/sports-003.html
AW
Friday, August 29, 2008
Friday Update - Thin Lizzy
The Boys are back in town.
Red Deer Rebels, practicing at the RD Arena yesterday.....and again today. Sounds like the three day "team building" trip was a blast.
Defenseman Cullen Morin says they just pretty much played some volleyball, a LOT of baseball, did some canoeing, and even played some charades one night. I would pay a lot of money to see Brent Sutter play charades.
Speaking of paying a lot of money....No update Thursday because I was buying a house. For all of you that remember your first time, it can be a hectic experience. John Frere, the father of former Rebel Eric Frere, now with the Kootenay Ice, was phenomenal. Seriously, if you're looking..give him a call at Royal Lepage.
-Calgary/Edmonton was awarded the 2012 World Jr. Hockey Championship yesterday. I know it seems a long way off...but this thing will be here before you know it. Apparently, season ticket holders at all the Alberta-based WHL franchises will get first crack at tickets. (Red Deer, Edm, Cgy, Leth, Med Hat).
-They say the CFL season doesn't actually start before Labour Day. B.C./Montreal tonight, Sask/Wpg Sunday, (go riders) Monday will be Stamps/Esks and Ticats/Argos.
Check out MORON SPORTS this weekend on 106.7 The Drive. I'll chat with Eskimos DL Dan Comiskey, and Rebels asst. coach Dallas Gaume, among others. 8-9 a.m. Sunday morning, and remember, we're also streaming online (finally) www.1067thedrive.fm
Red Deer Rebels, practicing at the RD Arena yesterday.....and again today. Sounds like the three day "team building" trip was a blast.
Defenseman Cullen Morin says they just pretty much played some volleyball, a LOT of baseball, did some canoeing, and even played some charades one night. I would pay a lot of money to see Brent Sutter play charades.
Speaking of paying a lot of money....No update Thursday because I was buying a house. For all of you that remember your first time, it can be a hectic experience. John Frere, the father of former Rebel Eric Frere, now with the Kootenay Ice, was phenomenal. Seriously, if you're looking..give him a call at Royal Lepage.
-Calgary/Edmonton was awarded the 2012 World Jr. Hockey Championship yesterday. I know it seems a long way off...but this thing will be here before you know it. Apparently, season ticket holders at all the Alberta-based WHL franchises will get first crack at tickets. (Red Deer, Edm, Cgy, Leth, Med Hat).
-They say the CFL season doesn't actually start before Labour Day. B.C./Montreal tonight, Sask/Wpg Sunday, (go riders) Monday will be Stamps/Esks and Ticats/Argos.
Check out MORON SPORTS this weekend on 106.7 The Drive. I'll chat with Eskimos DL Dan Comiskey, and Rebels asst. coach Dallas Gaume, among others. 8-9 a.m. Sunday morning, and remember, we're also streaming online (finally) www.1067thedrive.fm
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Wednesday Update
From Jim Matheson in the Edmonton Journal this morning..a nice update on former Rebel Ross Lupaschuck:
http://www.canada.com/edmontonjournal/news/sports/story.html?id=34385842-9ce8-484e-93ba-2f67c802288c
- Red Deer's Curtis Glencross was one of five new Flames introduced to the Calgary media yesterday at the saddledome. Glen-X has a very intriguing upside...in terms of being a good value-fit in Cowtown. He's making fourth line money, but could wind up as a pretty effective third line - penalty kill type guy. It wouldn't surprise me to see Curt put up 15-20 goals and 35-40 points.
-By the way, Glen-X is maybe my favorite nickname in the NHL.
- The Red Deer Rebels will return from their Camp Goldeye team building later today, and will resume practice tomorrow at the Arena. The first exhibition game goes on Tuesday in Calgary.
-Congrats to golfer Chase Teron, who captured his second straight Mclennan Ross Sun Jr. Tour Championship at Wolf Creek on Monday. A two-over 72 was good enough for a playoff. Then he stuck his approach within 3 feet to win it on hole 19.
-Check out my article in the Red Deer Express later today detailing a few thoughts from Rebel training camp...of course, if you check this blog...you probably already know what they are.
www.big105.fm
http://www.canada.com/edmontonjournal/news/sports/story.html?id=34385842-9ce8-484e-93ba-2f67c802288c
- Red Deer's Curtis Glencross was one of five new Flames introduced to the Calgary media yesterday at the saddledome. Glen-X has a very intriguing upside...in terms of being a good value-fit in Cowtown. He's making fourth line money, but could wind up as a pretty effective third line - penalty kill type guy. It wouldn't surprise me to see Curt put up 15-20 goals and 35-40 points.
-By the way, Glen-X is maybe my favorite nickname in the NHL.
- The Red Deer Rebels will return from their Camp Goldeye team building later today, and will resume practice tomorrow at the Arena. The first exhibition game goes on Tuesday in Calgary.
-Congrats to golfer Chase Teron, who captured his second straight Mclennan Ross Sun Jr. Tour Championship at Wolf Creek on Monday. A two-over 72 was good enough for a playoff. Then he stuck his approach within 3 feet to win it on hole 19.
-Check out my article in the Red Deer Express later today detailing a few thoughts from Rebel training camp...of course, if you check this blog...you probably already know what they are.
www.big105.fm
Monday, August 25, 2008
Rebels Losing an Icon
Joe Whitbread announces his resignation with the team to pursue other opportunities.
The Rebels are losing an invaluable key to their franchise here.....
Yes, I know his position isn't in the national spotlight. Guys like Joe Whitbread don't win Stanley Cups or World Jr Gold Medals. He isn't making trades, or even penning paycheques.
It is my firm belief that...... as of yesterday..the five most important parts of "Team Rebel"..in no particular order, were: Brent Sutter, Jesse Wallin, Landon Ferraro, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and one Joe Whitbread.
You may find that ridiculous, but Joe Whitbread, game night host....... is about 5 % of what defines him as a Rebel employee.
Is there a problem? Joe will fix it. And in turn, this lets the players worry about playing. The coaches worry about coaching, and the fans worry about cheering.
When someone on the ice or in the coaching room doesn't do their job..it can mean a loss.
If Joe didn't do his job...it would be mass chaos.
Here's wishing Joe all the best, and hoping the organization knows what they're losing.
AW
More Monday News and Notes
Jowl Lowry has been cut, and, as per Greg Meachem - G Travis Rolheiser requested, and was given his release.
-Earlier today, G Cam Gorchynski, F Brett Ferguson, D Brad Deagle, D Kevin Woodyatt, F Adam Kambietz were all signed to WHL contracts.
-Woodyatt is an interesting case. Very tough to get a read on this guy, although team brass seem to think he had a pretty good camp. Look for Woodyatt, an Arizona product, and Daulton Siwak (who played bantam at Notre Dame last season) to BOTH suit up for the AAA Midget Optimist Rebels this season. That will be a great way to keep close tabs on both.
- With the Centrium ice going out today, the guys will do some team building out at Camp Goldeye this week near Rocky. Hiking, canoeing, playing some ball...things of that nature. They'll return wednesday afternoon, and practice at the Arena on Thursday.
-Earlier today, G Cam Gorchynski, F Brett Ferguson, D Brad Deagle, D Kevin Woodyatt, F Adam Kambietz were all signed to WHL contracts.
-Woodyatt is an interesting case. Very tough to get a read on this guy, although team brass seem to think he had a pretty good camp. Look for Woodyatt, an Arizona product, and Daulton Siwak (who played bantam at Notre Dame last season) to BOTH suit up for the AAA Midget Optimist Rebels this season. That will be a great way to keep close tabs on both.
- With the Centrium ice going out today, the guys will do some team building out at Camp Goldeye this week near Rocky. Hiking, canoeing, playing some ball...things of that nature. They'll return wednesday afternoon, and practice at the Arena on Thursday.
Black and White Game.
Team Black - 4 Team White 3 (0t)
Black - Mappin (3) Ferraro
White - Lowry, Neduzak (ps) Kulhanek (ps)
-Obviously, the line of Mappin, Ferraro, and Polak was the story. A combined four goals and eight points, building on an already solid training camp.
-Jesse Wallin though, not very happy with the game, saying the pace definitely dropped off, even from Saturday. Tough to argue with that. I commented out loud a few times during the game that very few players seemed to want to just step up and make an impression.
Seven players were cut after the game:
Keyler Bruce - 16
Tanner Dusyk -16
Paul Lamoureux - 15
Josh Lazowski - 17
Jordan Neduzak - 16
Dom Perrault - 17
Matt Pufhal - 15
- In terms of the 15 and 16 year old's...it's not like they had bad camps, it's just not their time.
- Perrault was a letdown, but also a product of too many defensemen vying for spots. However, Brad Deagle and Kevin Woodyatt are still here.
-Lazowski is a skilled player, but the pace was too much for him from day one. he might get another shot next year, but he'll have to get quicker.
Fight Card:
Redmond vs Perrault - this one didn't ever really get started.
Woodyatt vs Cowen - Great tilt. Cowen may have landed more, but give Woodyatt the takedown.
The Good:
Cass Mappin - 3 goals, 1 assist, all from taking the puck hard to the net.
Cody Esposito - There was noone to drop the gloves with, but Esposito showed more flashes of outside speed that we saw most of the weekend.
Colby Kulhanek - To be honest, he didn't do much for me in camp, but I though his best performance was on Sunday
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins - 15 years old eh? The kid could have had four helpers. One of the best players on the ice.
Justin Weller - He's never going to wow you with flash, but he played a solid defensive game.
The Bad:
Brett Miller - A good start to camp, with a slow finish. He'll have to pick it up to avoid the press box
Steve Oursov - He came into camp with some hype, but has been absolutely invisible.
Dominic Perrault - One of seven cuts after the game. Seeing as though he was expected to at least be in the running for a spot, this has to be dissapointing to team brass.
Cody Gross - Gross needs to have a big year. He can skate and he has some offensive gifts. we haven't seen them yet.
So definitely a long way to go for this team. There was some good news in camp, but also too many guys who didn't show much. Stay tuned for the preseason.
Black - Mappin (3) Ferraro
White - Lowry, Neduzak (ps) Kulhanek (ps)
-Obviously, the line of Mappin, Ferraro, and Polak was the story. A combined four goals and eight points, building on an already solid training camp.
-Jesse Wallin though, not very happy with the game, saying the pace definitely dropped off, even from Saturday. Tough to argue with that. I commented out loud a few times during the game that very few players seemed to want to just step up and make an impression.
Seven players were cut after the game:
Keyler Bruce - 16
Tanner Dusyk -16
Paul Lamoureux - 15
Josh Lazowski - 17
Jordan Neduzak - 16
Dom Perrault - 17
Matt Pufhal - 15
- In terms of the 15 and 16 year old's...it's not like they had bad camps, it's just not their time.
- Perrault was a letdown, but also a product of too many defensemen vying for spots. However, Brad Deagle and Kevin Woodyatt are still here.
-Lazowski is a skilled player, but the pace was too much for him from day one. he might get another shot next year, but he'll have to get quicker.
Fight Card:
Redmond vs Perrault - this one didn't ever really get started.
Woodyatt vs Cowen - Great tilt. Cowen may have landed more, but give Woodyatt the takedown.
The Good:
Cass Mappin - 3 goals, 1 assist, all from taking the puck hard to the net.
Cody Esposito - There was noone to drop the gloves with, but Esposito showed more flashes of outside speed that we saw most of the weekend.
Colby Kulhanek - To be honest, he didn't do much for me in camp, but I though his best performance was on Sunday
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins - 15 years old eh? The kid could have had four helpers. One of the best players on the ice.
Justin Weller - He's never going to wow you with flash, but he played a solid defensive game.
The Bad:
Brett Miller - A good start to camp, with a slow finish. He'll have to pick it up to avoid the press box
Steve Oursov - He came into camp with some hype, but has been absolutely invisible.
Dominic Perrault - One of seven cuts after the game. Seeing as though he was expected to at least be in the running for a spot, this has to be dissapointing to team brass.
Cody Gross - Gross needs to have a big year. He can skate and he has some offensive gifts. we haven't seen them yet.
So definitely a long way to go for this team. There was some good news in camp, but also too many guys who didn't show much. Stay tuned for the preseason.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Saturday Notes - Final
- Day Three of camp...cuts have been made in advance of the McDonalds B&W game on Sunday (2 p.m.)
Cuts include:
Justin Krabben (17- D)
Klay Kachur (17 - D)
Tory Wilfong (17 - D)
Garrett Taylor (17 - F)
Tony Oak (18 - F)
Wilfong was seemingly out of his element this week, and as I understand, has been dropped entirely. Oak was tough, but just didn't have a big enough skill set to play at this level. Bumped up from rookie camp to the big boys: Jordan Neduzak, Adam Kambeitz, Keyler Bruce, Tanner Dusyk, Daulton Siwak, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Matt Pufahl, Brad Deagle, and Paul Lamoureux.
Players ON THE BUBBLE for Sunday, in my opinion: Kevin Woodyatt, Brad Deagle, Joel Lowry, Josh Lazowski. I think these are guys who have to show a little more if they want to stick in the preseason.
- Team Grey won the scrimmage Saturday nigth 3-2. Goals from Jordan Neduzak and Tyler Penny that I saw.
---------------------
Got a look at import D Tommi Kivisto finally....this morning was just practice but he looked good. head coach Jesse Wallin told me he was really impressed with his shot from the point. That could spell good news for the powerplay. Kivisto will play tonight, so that will give a better indication.
Just a reminder....MORON Sports on 106.7 The Drive Sunday Morning will have a ton of Rebels camp coverage.
Jesse Wallin, Randy Peterson, Justin Weller, Cody Esposito, Carter Smith, Darcy Kuemper, Cass Mappin, and Tommi Kivisto will all be on.
It runs from 8-9 am, and we ARE online now. http://www.1067thedrive.fm/
If you want to get some Rebel opinions on the show, email sports@1067thedrive.fm
Cuts include:
Justin Krabben (17- D)
Klay Kachur (17 - D)
Tory Wilfong (17 - D)
Garrett Taylor (17 - F)
Tony Oak (18 - F)
Wilfong was seemingly out of his element this week, and as I understand, has been dropped entirely. Oak was tough, but just didn't have a big enough skill set to play at this level. Bumped up from rookie camp to the big boys: Jordan Neduzak, Adam Kambeitz, Keyler Bruce, Tanner Dusyk, Daulton Siwak, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Matt Pufahl, Brad Deagle, and Paul Lamoureux.
Players ON THE BUBBLE for Sunday, in my opinion: Kevin Woodyatt, Brad Deagle, Joel Lowry, Josh Lazowski. I think these are guys who have to show a little more if they want to stick in the preseason.
- Team Grey won the scrimmage Saturday nigth 3-2. Goals from Jordan Neduzak and Tyler Penny that I saw.
---------------------
Got a look at import D Tommi Kivisto finally....this morning was just practice but he looked good. head coach Jesse Wallin told me he was really impressed with his shot from the point. That could spell good news for the powerplay. Kivisto will play tonight, so that will give a better indication.
Just a reminder....MORON Sports on 106.7 The Drive Sunday Morning will have a ton of Rebels camp coverage.
Jesse Wallin, Randy Peterson, Justin Weller, Cody Esposito, Carter Smith, Darcy Kuemper, Cass Mappin, and Tommi Kivisto will all be on.
It runs from 8-9 am, and we ARE online now. http://www.1067thedrive.fm/
If you want to get some Rebel opinions on the show, email sports@1067thedrive.fm
Friday, August 22, 2008
Olympic Morning/Training Camp - Day Two
Evening Update - Day Two
Fantastic vet scrimmage late this afternoon.
Team Burgundy 2 Team White 3 (Shootout)
Burgundy - Cody Esposito, Cody Gross
White - Cass Mappin, Tyler Penny
Shootout:
Burgundy - Cody Esposito (save) Willie Coetzee (miss) Colby Kulhanek (save)
White - Cass Mappin (goal) Landon Ferraro (miss)
-No Brennan Wray OR Tommi Kivisto in scrimmage. No word on Wray, Oursov banged up his knee yesterday, and they're just letting Tommi work his way in slowly.
-Morgan Clark and Darcy Kuemper both looked very solid in net, actually, all four tenders did a pretty solid job today.
-We finally got the fight we wanted to see, as Cody Esposito took on newcomer Tony Oak. Espo landed a couple of absolute bombs, but give Oak credit, he stood in there and registered the takedown.
-Cass Mappin has a way of irritating the opposition on the ice, and did a pretty good job of it today, he dropped the gloves with Carter Smith, scored a goal off a deflection, and scored the shootout winner.
-Cody Esposito was outstanding. Probably one of the big storylines of camp so far. fellow Calgarian Luke Egener does nothing but rave at his skill set. We'll see....it could be a nice year for Espo.
- Cullen Morin and Justin Weller were both very good today on the backend.
-Up front, Brett Miller regressed a bit from his day one performance, as did Willie Coetzee. Cody Gross was better, as well as Tyler Penny.
-Newcomer Josh Lazowski may be in tough. A small, skilled player, but so far, he's had trouble playing his game, and has been half a step behind.
All in all, the battles that we anticipated for roster spots have been great. the intersquad on Saturday and Black and White game Sunday should be fantastic. Tickets for the game are available at all Mcdonalds locations in Red Deer.
Full recap of training camp on the air Sunday morning on MORON SPORTS - http://www.1067thedrive.fm/
Afternoon Update- Day Two
Some rookies not on the ice in the a.m. - obviously just shifted up with the big boys (Connor Redmond, Alex Petrovic, Brad Deagle, Kevin Woodyatt)
The two best rookies in camp, Nugent Hopkins and Siwak, were left with their age group...it emphasizes just how good those two really are.
Hopkins is obvious, but to me Siwak has been the biggest revelation through two days. He's going to be a good one.
Also good this morning...Matt Pufahl, Corey Koslowski, Adam Kambeitz, and Justin Georgeson, who scored the goal of the day.
Vets back on at 4:45..looking forward to seeing Tommi Kivisto in some game-type action
Morning Update -
Two more medals this morning in Beijing. Canoe and Taekwondo. Up to 17. Good to see.
Can't believe Adam Van Koeverdon was upset in the K1-1000. I feel bad for the guy. What happened? He'll rebound tomorrow in the 500 M.
Dude is a champ.
Rebels rookies on the ice at 8:30 this morning, Vets on at 10:30.
Camp thoughts to come later on.
AW
http://www.big105.fm/
Fantastic vet scrimmage late this afternoon.
Team Burgundy 2 Team White 3 (Shootout)
Burgundy - Cody Esposito, Cody Gross
White - Cass Mappin, Tyler Penny
Shootout:
Burgundy - Cody Esposito (save) Willie Coetzee (miss) Colby Kulhanek (save)
White - Cass Mappin (goal) Landon Ferraro (miss)
-No Brennan Wray OR Tommi Kivisto in scrimmage. No word on Wray, Oursov banged up his knee yesterday, and they're just letting Tommi work his way in slowly.
-Morgan Clark and Darcy Kuemper both looked very solid in net, actually, all four tenders did a pretty solid job today.
-We finally got the fight we wanted to see, as Cody Esposito took on newcomer Tony Oak. Espo landed a couple of absolute bombs, but give Oak credit, he stood in there and registered the takedown.
-Cass Mappin has a way of irritating the opposition on the ice, and did a pretty good job of it today, he dropped the gloves with Carter Smith, scored a goal off a deflection, and scored the shootout winner.
-Cody Esposito was outstanding. Probably one of the big storylines of camp so far. fellow Calgarian Luke Egener does nothing but rave at his skill set. We'll see....it could be a nice year for Espo.
- Cullen Morin and Justin Weller were both very good today on the backend.
-Up front, Brett Miller regressed a bit from his day one performance, as did Willie Coetzee. Cody Gross was better, as well as Tyler Penny.
-Newcomer Josh Lazowski may be in tough. A small, skilled player, but so far, he's had trouble playing his game, and has been half a step behind.
All in all, the battles that we anticipated for roster spots have been great. the intersquad on Saturday and Black and White game Sunday should be fantastic. Tickets for the game are available at all Mcdonalds locations in Red Deer.
Full recap of training camp on the air Sunday morning on MORON SPORTS - http://www.1067thedrive.fm/
Afternoon Update- Day Two
Some rookies not on the ice in the a.m. - obviously just shifted up with the big boys (Connor Redmond, Alex Petrovic, Brad Deagle, Kevin Woodyatt)
The two best rookies in camp, Nugent Hopkins and Siwak, were left with their age group...it emphasizes just how good those two really are.
Hopkins is obvious, but to me Siwak has been the biggest revelation through two days. He's going to be a good one.
Also good this morning...Matt Pufahl, Corey Koslowski, Adam Kambeitz, and Justin Georgeson, who scored the goal of the day.
Vets back on at 4:45..looking forward to seeing Tommi Kivisto in some game-type action
Morning Update -
Two more medals this morning in Beijing. Canoe and Taekwondo. Up to 17. Good to see.
Can't believe Adam Van Koeverdon was upset in the K1-1000. I feel bad for the guy. What happened? He'll rebound tomorrow in the 500 M.
Dude is a champ.
Rebels rookies on the ice at 8:30 this morning, Vets on at 10:30.
Camp thoughts to come later on.
AW
http://www.big105.fm/
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Rebels Camp Article.
Five to watch over the next four days.
Red Deer Express.
http://www.reddeerexpress.com/express/edition03/sports-002.html
Red Deer Express.
http://www.reddeerexpress.com/express/edition03/sports-002.html
Training Camp...Day One
Evening Update - Vets first scrimmage has wrapped up.
Team Burgundy 3 Team White 1
Burgundy - Carter Smith (2) Brett Ferguson
White - Landon Ferraro
All in all, a pretty good pace to the first actual scrimmage. Colby Kulhanek was robbed twice by Morgan Clark on penalty shots. Some physical play as well, as Joel Lowry managed to throw his weight around, and youngsters Landon Ferraro and Willie Coetzee got into it a little bit.
Coetzee looks like he got a little bigger over the last year. If you remember, he stuck with the Rebels last season, but played just a handful of games before returning to Junior A in B.C.
- Smith was dangerous, as were Brett Miller, Landon Ferraro, and Josh Cowen.
- On the blueline, I liked Weller, Morin, and SCARBOROUGH.........good for him.
-The early read on tough-guy Tony Oak isn't very impressive. He doesn't skate overly well, and didn't really make himself known physically. If he was brought in to challenge Cody Esposito, he won't be able to do it.
-Speaking of Esposito, I really think he could be able to play on the third line and put up 8-10 goals this season, add to that the fact he's the toughest guy in the league, and you have a fairly valuable commodity.
- 17 year old Finn Tommi Kivisto didn't skate again due to his long flight, but he was in the stands watching the action.
Afternoon Update -
Vets scrimmage set to go at 4:45. Seeing as though the morning was all drills, they should be pretty eager to go. A few no-show/injury notes:
-Matt Belich, a Red Deer kid, lasted about 10 minutes, then just decided to pack it in..maybe injured, maybe he decided he was in over his head. Word is he won't be back.
-Import D Tommi Kivisto, who I am very interested to see, didn't skate this morning. International flights are brutal. (I discovered that a couple of weeks ago). He'll be on the ice tomorrow at the latest.
- Brandon Sutter and Luke Egener didn't skate this morning either. Sutter had his wisdom teeth removed, and has dropped about seven pounds. Egener is still listed as a bumblebee due to that offseason shoulder surgery. Both should be fine.
-I know it's early, but because of the HUGE battle for d spots on this team, even during the drills it became increasingly obvious that Tory Wilfong will not be playing for the Rebels this year.
-Landon Ferraro couldn't miss in any of the drills today. It quickly became a routine. Back bar, then in. That's good news. Hopefully it stays the same for the rest of camp.
Morning Update -
A few thoughts from the first rookie session today. With roster spots wide open for some 16 year-olds to claim, expect the scrimmages to be more intense than ever.
As you'd expect, the bigger names were the standouts this morning.
Alex Petrovic moves the puck with authority, and is the best blueliner in the 15-16 year old group. Connor Redmond was always around the puck and controlled a lot of the play when on the ice. he'll be able to play a very effective up and down, physical game in the WHL very soon.
Team Grey, featuring Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, lost the scrimmage 5-3, but Hopkins - Adam Kambeitz - Jordan Neduzak was still the most dangerous line on the ice.
Best forward of day one...Daulton Siwak from Olds, AB. The second round pick this past spring plays a hard forecheck game, and plays with a goal scorers mentality. A good, outside speed goal capped an all around good day.
Tanner Dusyk looked good, even though word is he's playing a little banged up. Colton Robak looks decidedly better than he did at prospects camp, while Jeremy Margeson isn't afraid to shoot the puck at all times.
In terms of the goaltenders.....hard to tell. Mark Anderson, the 16 year old, was certainly the busiest, and probably the most effective.
Vets on the ice until early this afternoon.
-----------------------
BIG 105 will be live with the sports from the Enmax Centrium this morning for day one of Rebels training camp.
Rookies hitting the ice first at 830.....the vets will follow at 10:30.
Extremely excited to get another look at first overall bantam pick Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. The kid's skills are absolutely gross.
One Olympic story of note....it looks like Norway will be losing its bronze medal in team equestrian after one of the HORSES tested positive for doping. WHAT WAS THAT HORSE THINKING?
more to come today....
www.big105.fm
Team Burgundy 3 Team White 1
Burgundy - Carter Smith (2) Brett Ferguson
White - Landon Ferraro
All in all, a pretty good pace to the first actual scrimmage. Colby Kulhanek was robbed twice by Morgan Clark on penalty shots. Some physical play as well, as Joel Lowry managed to throw his weight around, and youngsters Landon Ferraro and Willie Coetzee got into it a little bit.Coetzee looks like he got a little bigger over the last year. If you remember, he stuck with the Rebels last season, but played just a handful of games before returning to Junior A in B.C.
- Smith was dangerous, as were Brett Miller, Landon Ferraro, and Josh Cowen.
- On the blueline, I liked Weller, Morin, and SCARBOROUGH.........good for him.
-The early read on tough-guy Tony Oak isn't very impressive. He doesn't skate overly well, and didn't really make himself known physically. If he was brought in to challenge Cody Esposito, he won't be able to do it.
-Speaking of Esposito, I really think he could be able to play on the third line and put up 8-10 goals this season, add to that the fact he's the toughest guy in the league, and you have a fairly valuable commodity.
- 17 year old Finn Tommi Kivisto didn't skate again due to his long flight, but he was in the stands watching the action.
Afternoon Update -
Vets scrimmage set to go at 4:45. Seeing as though the morning was all drills, they should be pretty eager to go. A few no-show/injury notes:
-Matt Belich, a Red Deer kid, lasted about 10 minutes, then just decided to pack it in..maybe injured, maybe he decided he was in over his head. Word is he won't be back.
-Import D Tommi Kivisto, who I am very interested to see, didn't skate this morning. International flights are brutal. (I discovered that a couple of weeks ago). He'll be on the ice tomorrow at the latest.
- Brandon Sutter and Luke Egener didn't skate this morning either. Sutter had his wisdom teeth removed, and has dropped about seven pounds. Egener is still listed as a bumblebee due to that offseason shoulder surgery. Both should be fine.
-I know it's early, but because of the HUGE battle for d spots on this team, even during the drills it became increasingly obvious that Tory Wilfong will not be playing for the Rebels this year.
-Landon Ferraro couldn't miss in any of the drills today. It quickly became a routine. Back bar, then in. That's good news. Hopefully it stays the same for the rest of camp.
Morning Update -
A few thoughts from the first rookie session today. With roster spots wide open for some 16 year-olds to claim, expect the scrimmages to be more intense than ever.
As you'd expect, the bigger names were the standouts this morning.
Alex Petrovic moves the puck with authority, and is the best blueliner in the 15-16 year old group. Connor Redmond was always around the puck and controlled a lot of the play when on the ice. he'll be able to play a very effective up and down, physical game in the WHL very soon.
Team Grey, featuring Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, lost the scrimmage 5-3, but Hopkins - Adam Kambeitz - Jordan Neduzak was still the most dangerous line on the ice.
Best forward of day one...Daulton Siwak from Olds, AB. The second round pick this past spring plays a hard forecheck game, and plays with a goal scorers mentality. A good, outside speed goal capped an all around good day.
Tanner Dusyk looked good, even though word is he's playing a little banged up. Colton Robak looks decidedly better than he did at prospects camp, while Jeremy Margeson isn't afraid to shoot the puck at all times.
In terms of the goaltenders.....hard to tell. Mark Anderson, the 16 year old, was certainly the busiest, and probably the most effective.
Vets on the ice until early this afternoon.
-----------------------
BIG 105 will be live with the sports from the Enmax Centrium this morning for day one of Rebels training camp.
Rookies hitting the ice first at 830.....the vets will follow at 10:30.
Extremely excited to get another look at first overall bantam pick Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. The kid's skills are absolutely gross.
One Olympic story of note....it looks like Norway will be losing its bronze medal in team equestrian after one of the HORSES tested positive for doping. WHAT WAS THAT HORSE THINKING?
more to come today....
www.big105.fm
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
2010 Memorial Cup
To clarify a couple of questions/rumors.
There was a bit of speculation that the Rebels would take a stab at the 2010 Memorial Cup.
However, the team has not, and WILL NOT be making a bid.
AW
There was a bit of speculation that the Rebels would take a stab at the 2010 Memorial Cup.
However, the team has not, and WILL NOT be making a bid.
AW
Wednesday Olympic Morning
Doesn't look like there will be any medals for Canada this morning...although two more Canoe's qualified for their respective finals. When those canoe/kayak finals hit later this week, we could see a RUN of medals...
I don't know anything about Taekwondo....i'm even a little unsure of the spelling, as you can see.
However, last night i did watch my first fight, as Canada's Ivett Gonda took on a fighter from Sweden in her first round match. You score one point for a kick to the chest, and two for a kick to the head. Gonda dominated. Absolutely dominated...and lost 2-0. It's a shame some sports come down to partial and obviously biased judging. No coincidence that Gonda, a medal hopeful, would have faced a Chinese opponent in round two.
Later today, I'll be getting ready to set up live on location at the Enmax centrium in time for Thursday morning. We'll be live with the sports on BIG 105 from the rink. Stop in and say hello.
I don't know anything about Taekwondo....i'm even a little unsure of the spelling, as you can see.
However, last night i did watch my first fight, as Canada's Ivett Gonda took on a fighter from Sweden in her first round match. You score one point for a kick to the chest, and two for a kick to the head. Gonda dominated. Absolutely dominated...and lost 2-0. It's a shame some sports come down to partial and obviously biased judging. No coincidence that Gonda, a medal hopeful, would have faced a Chinese opponent in round two.
Later today, I'll be getting ready to set up live on location at the Enmax centrium in time for Thursday morning. We'll be live with the sports on BIG 105 from the rink. Stop in and say hello.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Strange story - Stefan Legein
So...apparently WJHC Champ Stefan Legein, the sparkplug who quickly became a fan favorite......has quit hockey. WHAT?
This according to Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: 
http://blog.dispatch.com/cbj/2008/08/shocker_1.shtml
Something very strange about this story....
Hopefully I'll get a thought or two from former World Junior teammate Brandon Sutter tomorrow.
http://blog.dispatch.com/cbj/2008/08/shocker_1.shtml
Something very strange about this story....
Hopefully I'll get a thought or two from former World Junior teammate Brandon Sutter tomorrow.
Breakout Players - 08-09
As you can see - I've put up a new poll. Who do you think will finally, and hopefully break out this season? Some interesting choices.
Cheers
AW
Cheers
AW
Rebels Media Lunch - Line Combos?
Rebels media lunch earlier this afternoon at Tony Roma's. Always good eats.
Had a press scrum with head coach Jesse Wallin, as well as owner Brent Sutter.
Every year this seems to be a feel-good event, as optimism is always high. Everybody's eager to get back, and everybody's tied in the standings.
A couple of interesting comments that will be touched on during the show:
Wallin says they'll really be taking a close look at a line consisting of Cass Mappin - Landon Ferraro - Tomas Polak. If Polak can rebound like the coaches think he can, and Mappin finally puts a few things together, I would think it has the chance to be a pretty effective trio.
One could also assume this is half of your top six. Leaving another scoring line of Brennan Wray - Carter Smith - Steve Oursov??
Wallin basically hinted at the notion a guy like Smith will have an opportunity to win a spot, but unless he can bring some stable offensive prowess, there will be no point in keeping him.
Wray- Egener - Smith continue to be the "likely" three 20 year-olds on the team.
Both Wallin and Sutter lit up when discussing the defense corps, and I would have to agree with the idea that they're young, mobile, talented, and the strength of this team. the fact remains though, as good as the D could be, there doesn't appear to be much of an offensive attack.
Had a press scrum with head coach Jesse Wallin, as well as owner Brent Sutter.
Every year this seems to be a feel-good event, as optimism is always high. Everybody's eager to get back, and everybody's tied in the standings.
A couple of interesting comments that will be touched on during the show:
Wallin says they'll really be taking a close look at a line consisting of Cass Mappin - Landon Ferraro - Tomas Polak. If Polak can rebound like the coaches think he can, and Mappin finally puts a few things together, I would think it has the chance to be a pretty effective trio.
One could also assume this is half of your top six. Leaving another scoring line of Brennan Wray - Carter Smith - Steve Oursov??
Wallin basically hinted at the notion a guy like Smith will have an opportunity to win a spot, but unless he can bring some stable offensive prowess, there will be no point in keeping him.
Wray- Egener - Smith continue to be the "likely" three 20 year-olds on the team.
Both Wallin and Sutter lit up when discussing the defense corps, and I would have to agree with the idea that they're young, mobile, talented, and the strength of this team. the fact remains though, as good as the D could be, there doesn't appear to be much of an offensive attack.
With 10 dman vying for spots, could we see a trade? Maybe move an asset for a proven scorer? Another question to be answered in the coming days.
I had the Bacon Cheddar Burger. Recommended.
Olympic Morning - Random Thoughts
I'm looking for someone to yell at.
At the risk of pulling the "I told you so" card, I will elaborate.
I was SO sick of all the people who were taking pot-shots at the Canadian Olympic team just one week ago. Sure, it was a bit of a dissapointing start for us, but instead of being supportive, a lot of us here in Canada (probably overweight and sitting on the couch eating potato chips) started making our athletes into a punch line. I even heard one conversation with the quote.."Id rather have NO medals than two medals"
ABSOLUTELY BRUTAL
One week later, we're up to 13 medals, ALREADY exceeding our 2004 Athens total. People seem to forget that relatively speaking, we're a small country population wise. I'd actually be interested to see some per capita figures when it comes to medal totals. I bet as a nation we're right near the top. And we still have our kayak finals to come....Adam Van Koeverden is a machine
.
Tuesday was a thrilling couple of hours. A silver for Jason Burnett in the trampoline, another silver for Alex Despatie in the 3M springboard, and an upset bronze for Priscilla Lopes-Schliep in the 100M hurdles.
So if you're the kind of fan who needs to jump BACK on the Canadian bandwagon today, you should be a bit embarrassed.
-----------------------
With Rebels training camp set to open on Thursday, the annual media lunch is set to go later this afternoon. Brent Sutter takes all the media out to Tony Roma's for a bite to eat, and it's always a good time. Little things like that go a long way to appease us media types.
One of the annual traditions is the team selection contest. Every media member gets a full camp roster, and we in turn predict who will make the club, and who won't based on our training camp opinions.
I won the title back in 2006-07, but sportswriter Danny Rode from the Advocate took back the crown last year. About time I got it back.
---------------------
From Jim Matheson in the Edmonton Journal:
"The Oilers haven't had a news briefing to unveil their upcoming third jersey, but it's no secret they'll be turning back the clocks to showcase the blue and orange colours from their 1980's glory days"
- Is this another jersey cash grab? Maybe. But who cares? How sweet are those jersey's going to look? I think the Flames should do the flames, with the old White and Orange.
Catch my Red Deer Express column this week, where I take a look at some of the players to watch closely in Rebels camp this year. http://www.reddeerexpress.com/
At the risk of pulling the "I told you so" card, I will elaborate.
I was SO sick of all the people who were taking pot-shots at the Canadian Olympic team just one week ago. Sure, it was a bit of a dissapointing start for us, but instead of being supportive, a lot of us here in Canada (probably overweight and sitting on the couch eating potato chips) started making our athletes into a punch line. I even heard one conversation with the quote.."Id rather have NO medals than two medals"
ABSOLUTELY BRUTAL
One week later, we're up to 13 medals, ALREADY exceeding our 2004 Athens total. People seem to forget that relatively speaking, we're a small country population wise. I'd actually be interested to see some per capita figures when it comes to medal totals. I bet as a nation we're right near the top. And we still have our kayak finals to come....Adam Van Koeverden is a machine
.Tuesday was a thrilling couple of hours. A silver for Jason Burnett in the trampoline, another silver for Alex Despatie in the 3M springboard, and an upset bronze for Priscilla Lopes-Schliep in the 100M hurdles.
So if you're the kind of fan who needs to jump BACK on the Canadian bandwagon today, you should be a bit embarrassed.
-----------------------
With Rebels training camp set to open on Thursday, the annual media lunch is set to go later this afternoon. Brent Sutter takes all the media out to Tony Roma's for a bite to eat, and it's always a good time. Little things like that go a long way to appease us media types.
One of the annual traditions is the team selection contest. Every media member gets a full camp roster, and we in turn predict who will make the club, and who won't based on our training camp opinions.
I won the title back in 2006-07, but sportswriter Danny Rode from the Advocate took back the crown last year. About time I got it back.
---------------------
From Jim Matheson in the Edmonton Journal:
"The Oilers haven't had a news briefing to unveil their upcoming third jersey, but it's no secret they'll be turning back the clocks to showcase the blue and orange colours from their 1980's glory days"
- Is this another jersey cash grab? Maybe. But who cares? How sweet are those jersey's going to look? I think the Flames should do the flames, with the old White and Orange.
Catch my Red Deer Express column this week, where I take a look at some of the players to watch closely in Rebels camp this year. http://www.reddeerexpress.com/
Rebels Training Camp Thoughts
It was 32 degrees on Monday.
It feels wrong that i'm getting set to cover Rebels '08 training camp, yet somehow, it also feels so right.
It's been a long offseason following a year that left a bad taste in just about everybodys mouth. The players were embarrassed, the coaches were embarrassed, and in some cases, let go.
Probably worst of all, the fans started to stay away for maybe the first time in a decade. It's time for the franchise to turn the page. Does this mean winning every game? hardly. This means competing hard, playing an exciting brand of hockey, and bringing some life back into the Enmax Centrium.
As we talked about prior to last season, it's fine to go with a youth movement, but the key is to show improvement as the season goes on. Last year, this team got worse.
In 2008-09, it starts with Jesse Wallin, the new head coach. Out of all the off-season moves made by Brent Sutter, this was the best one. Wallin should have been put in this position a year ago, and he's going to do a tremendous job. If you don't want to give 100 % for Wally, there's something wrong with you.
Camp begins Thursday at 8:30 a.m. and wraps up Sunday with the McDonalds Black and White Game. Check out BIG 105 Sports Thursday morning, as we'll be live from the Centrium, starting at seven oclock.
It feels wrong that i'm getting set to cover Rebels '08 training camp, yet somehow, it also feels so right.
It's been a long offseason following a year that left a bad taste in just about everybodys mouth. The players were embarrassed, the coaches were embarrassed, and in some cases, let go.
Probably worst of all, the fans started to stay away for maybe the first time in a decade. It's time for the franchise to turn the page. Does this mean winning every game? hardly. This means competing hard, playing an exciting brand of hockey, and bringing some life back into the Enmax Centrium.
As we talked about prior to last season, it's fine to go with a youth movement, but the key is to show improvement as the season goes on. Last year, this team got worse.
In 2008-09, it starts with Jesse Wallin, the new head coach. Out of all the off-season moves made by Brent Sutter, this was the best one. Wallin should have been put in this position a year ago, and he's going to do a tremendous job. If you don't want to give 100 % for Wally, there's something wrong with you.
Camp begins Thursday at 8:30 a.m. and wraps up Sunday with the McDonalds Black and White Game. Check out BIG 105 Sports Thursday morning, as we'll be live from the Centrium, starting at seven oclock.
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