-Rebels boarding the bus after practice this morning....an early season test will be upcoming shortly, as they embark on a very tough four-game road trip, starting Wednesday in Swift Current. They'll play in Brandon Friday, Moose Jaw Saturday, and Regina Sunday.
-Among the San Jose Sharks training camp cuts yesterday, Red Deer native Matt Kinch.
-High School Football from Monday night:
Camrose 20 Lindsay Thurber 7
Notre Dame 35 Lacombe 12
Hunting Hills 35 Rocky 0
The Provincial rankings were released Monday as well. In tier IV, the Sylvan Lake Lakers continue to dominate. 6-0 this season, and still ranked number one.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Monday, September 29, 2008
Monday Musings
Sigh.
Another Long Day for the NFL Panel on MORON SPORTS.
All in all, we weren't bad against the spread...again. But our locks of the week have been very suspect....(except mine...ha)
Here's how we let you down for a third consecutive week:
Andrew - San Diego (-7.5) over Oakland - CORRECT
Jesse - Philly (-2.5) over Chicago - WRONG
Jamie - Green Bay (+1.5) over Tampa - WRONG
Tyler - Denver (-9.5) over Kansas City - WRONG
Yikes.
---------------
Some Red Deer Rebel notes: I will go in search of some injury/lineup updates in the next couple of days. I can tell you that Luke Egener will be fine. He had his bell rung in saturday's 4-3 OT win over Edmonton. He should be good to go as Red Deer heads out for a four-gamer Tuesday.
Currently, Joel Kot, Justin Weller, Cody Esposito, Josh Cowen, and Connor Redmond are all n the DL
--------
Red Deer Native Matt Fraser (Kootenay Ice) injured his shoulder over the weekend, and is out indefinitely.
Red Deer's Colton Sceviour (Leth Hurricanes) potted a goal and an assist Saturday. He should have a big season.
--------
Former Rebel Jordan Henry was among the cuts in Florida Panthers camp today...the Milo, AB. native should be a regular with the Panthers AHL affiliate this season.
Also, former Rebel Brett Sutter is hanging in there with the CGY Flames. He'll eventually be sent down, but could be in the mix for a call up as soon as the injury bug hits in CGY.
-------
AW
Another Long Day for the NFL Panel on MORON SPORTS.
All in all, we weren't bad against the spread...again. But our locks of the week have been very suspect....(except mine...ha)
Here's how we let you down for a third consecutive week:
Andrew - San Diego (-7.5) over Oakland - CORRECT
Jesse - Philly (-2.5) over Chicago - WRONG
Jamie - Green Bay (+1.5) over Tampa - WRONG
Tyler - Denver (-9.5) over Kansas City - WRONG
Yikes.
---------------
Some Red Deer Rebel notes: I will go in search of some injury/lineup updates in the next couple of days. I can tell you that Luke Egener will be fine. He had his bell rung in saturday's 4-3 OT win over Edmonton. He should be good to go as Red Deer heads out for a four-gamer Tuesday.
Currently, Joel Kot, Justin Weller, Cody Esposito, Josh Cowen, and Connor Redmond are all n the DL
--------
Red Deer Native Matt Fraser (Kootenay Ice) injured his shoulder over the weekend, and is out indefinitely.
Red Deer's Colton Sceviour (Leth Hurricanes) potted a goal and an assist Saturday. He should have a big season.
--------
Former Rebel Jordan Henry was among the cuts in Florida Panthers camp today...the Milo, AB. native should be a regular with the Panthers AHL affiliate this season.
Also, former Rebel Brett Sutter is hanging in there with the CGY Flames. He'll eventually be sent down, but could be in the mix for a call up as soon as the injury bug hits in CGY.
-------
AW
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Saturday Night - Rebels 4 Oil Kings 3 (OT)
The Good: Rebels win 4-3 in Overtime, and now LEAD the Central Division five games into the season.
The Bad: For the fourth time in five games, the Rebels blow a lead of two goals or more. This is a FUN team to watch, but it sure is nerve wracking.
Here's the Summary:
2. RDR Mappin, (2) (Polak, Ferraro), 0:37
2. EDM Vincour, (1) (Raedeke, Lee), 4:45 (PP)
2. RDR Gross, (3) (Ferraro, Mappin), 7:47 (PP)
3. RDR Penny, (1) , 6:13
3. EDM Cumiskey, (1) (Dowd, Breitkreuz), 9:49
3. EDM Dowd, (4) (Breitkreuz, Pysyk), 19:24
OT. RDR Ferraro, (3) (Wray, Coetzee), 0:51 (PP)
----
For Ferraro, give hime three goals and eight points in five games to start the year...he is now TIED for the WHL scoring lead. We knew he'd be an impact player...but to take this "go to guy" role to this level early in the season is absolutely remarkable.
With 7 points (2g 5a) Cass Mappin sits 9th overall in dub scoring.....not too shabby.
-----------
-Making his WHL debut Saturday night, 15 year old Daulton Siwak. The second round pick got the call at two in the afternoon to come up with the big club after Josh Cowen and Cody esposito both went down with injuries Friday night. Siwak didn't play a ton, but skated well on a line with Brett Miller and Brett Ferguson.
---------
On the injury front..it sounds like Joel Kot is pretty much ready to go. We could see him on the road trip. Luke Egener went down with an injury in the first period. he didn't play after that, but sat on the bench the rest of the way. Coming off shoulder surgery, your automatic instinct is to fear the worst. Hopefully, it's nothign more than a stinger.
Cody Esposito has a walking cast and needs another x-ray. Could be days. Could be weeks. No timeline yet on Cowen or Redmond.
-------
I was a little surprised to see Morgan Clark back in the net after facing 56 shots on Friday. Clark was good though, and has been oustanding all year,,with a save percentage around .930. kuemper will likely see at least one game on the trip, which kicks off Wednesday in Swift Current.
---------
Performers from Saturday:
Tyler Penny - goal, yeomans work on the penalty kill, tons of hustle
Cullen Morin - Thought he could have been one of the stars....was especially good on the blueline, especially after Egener went down
Brennan Wray - he brings so much to the table...and has way better hands than you'd think. was very good on the powerplay, setting up the game winner. he's a guy that may produce more points as a dman than he did a forward.
On MORON SPORTS sunday morning (8-9 a.m. www.1067thedrive.fm )
-Rebels Rewind - Analysis and highlights from Friday/Saturday
-NFL Week four picks and locks - the panel (Andew, Jesse, Jamie, Tyler)
-Talking fantasy hockey with Darryl Dobbs (www.dobberhockey.com)
Cheers
AW
The Bad: For the fourth time in five games, the Rebels blow a lead of two goals or more. This is a FUN team to watch, but it sure is nerve wracking.
Here's the Summary:
2. RDR Mappin, (2) (Polak, Ferraro), 0:37
2. EDM Vincour, (1) (Raedeke, Lee), 4:45 (PP)
2. RDR Gross, (3) (Ferraro, Mappin), 7:47 (PP)
3. RDR Penny, (1) , 6:13
3. EDM Cumiskey, (1) (Dowd, Breitkreuz), 9:49
3. EDM Dowd, (4) (Breitkreuz, Pysyk), 19:24
OT. RDR Ferraro, (3) (Wray, Coetzee), 0:51 (PP)
----
For Ferraro, give hime three goals and eight points in five games to start the year...he is now TIED for the WHL scoring lead. We knew he'd be an impact player...but to take this "go to guy" role to this level early in the season is absolutely remarkable.
With 7 points (2g 5a) Cass Mappin sits 9th overall in dub scoring.....not too shabby.
-----------
-Making his WHL debut Saturday night, 15 year old Daulton Siwak. The second round pick got the call at two in the afternoon to come up with the big club after Josh Cowen and Cody esposito both went down with injuries Friday night. Siwak didn't play a ton, but skated well on a line with Brett Miller and Brett Ferguson.
---------
On the injury front..it sounds like Joel Kot is pretty much ready to go. We could see him on the road trip. Luke Egener went down with an injury in the first period. he didn't play after that, but sat on the bench the rest of the way. Coming off shoulder surgery, your automatic instinct is to fear the worst. Hopefully, it's nothign more than a stinger.
Cody Esposito has a walking cast and needs another x-ray. Could be days. Could be weeks. No timeline yet on Cowen or Redmond.
-------
I was a little surprised to see Morgan Clark back in the net after facing 56 shots on Friday. Clark was good though, and has been oustanding all year,,with a save percentage around .930. kuemper will likely see at least one game on the trip, which kicks off Wednesday in Swift Current.
---------
Performers from Saturday:
Tyler Penny - goal, yeomans work on the penalty kill, tons of hustle
Cullen Morin - Thought he could have been one of the stars....was especially good on the blueline, especially after Egener went down
Brennan Wray - he brings so much to the table...and has way better hands than you'd think. was very good on the powerplay, setting up the game winner. he's a guy that may produce more points as a dman than he did a forward.
On MORON SPORTS sunday morning (8-9 a.m. www.1067thedrive.fm )
-Rebels Rewind - Analysis and highlights from Friday/Saturday
-NFL Week four picks and locks - the panel (Andew, Jesse, Jamie, Tyler)
-Talking fantasy hockey with Darryl Dobbs (www.dobberhockey.com)
Cheers
AW
Game Night - Saturday
Pregame show starting at 7 p.m. (www.big105.fm)
Red Deer Rebels vs Edmonton Oil Kings. Back end of the home and home. Edmonton won it 5-4 in a shootout last night. All in all, thats a fortunate point for the Rebels, who were outshot 55-27.
Tonight....a slew of changes for Red Deer. Cody Esposito blocked a shot with his foot Friday. He's out. Josh Cowen took a bad spill into the boards, and will sit out for at least one game. Connor Redmond is still battling an arm injury...so he's out tonight as well.
SO.....insert 17 year old Brett Miller. The late camp cut was with Battlefords in the SJHL. Also, 15 year old Daulton Siwak will make his WHL debut tonight, playing ont he fourth line with Miller and Ferguson. Siwak is currently with the AAA Midget Optimist Rebels.
Morgan Clark gets the start tonight...a bit of a surprise after facing 55 shots last night.
Tonight's Lineup:
Mappin - Ferraro - Polak
Gross - Coetzee - Smith
Kambietz - Penn - Oursov
Ferguson - Siwak - Miller
Kivisto - Archer
Morin - Petrovic
Wray - Egener
AW
Red Deer Rebels vs Edmonton Oil Kings. Back end of the home and home. Edmonton won it 5-4 in a shootout last night. All in all, thats a fortunate point for the Rebels, who were outshot 55-27.
Tonight....a slew of changes for Red Deer. Cody Esposito blocked a shot with his foot Friday. He's out. Josh Cowen took a bad spill into the boards, and will sit out for at least one game. Connor Redmond is still battling an arm injury...so he's out tonight as well.
SO.....insert 17 year old Brett Miller. The late camp cut was with Battlefords in the SJHL. Also, 15 year old Daulton Siwak will make his WHL debut tonight, playing ont he fourth line with Miller and Ferguson. Siwak is currently with the AAA Midget Optimist Rebels.
Morgan Clark gets the start tonight...a bit of a surprise after facing 55 shots last night.
Tonight's Lineup:
Mappin - Ferraro - Polak
Gross - Coetzee - Smith
Kambietz - Penn - Oursov
Ferguson - Siwak - Miller
Kivisto - Archer
Morin - Petrovic
Wray - Egener
AW
Friday, September 26, 2008
Friday Notes
Gameday: Red Deer Rebels @ Edmonton Oil Kings - 7 p.m. (www.big105.fm)
The Oil Kings split a home and home with the Cgy Hitmen this week, the Rebels improved their record to 2-1 with Tuesday's 3-1 win over the Kootenay Ice.
The back end of this home and home goes Saturday at the Enmax Centrium. 7:30 puck drop, pregame show 7 p.m.
-Among some NHL camp Cuts:
Toronto has sent G James Reimer, 20, down to the AHL's Toronto Marlies.
Columbus has sent down former RD Rebel Kirill Starkov and former AAA Midget Optimist Rebel Shane Willis.
-Got a text last night from Brandon Sutter after the Carolina Hurricanes lost 5-2 to Washington. Brandon played 18 and a half minutes on the first line, and was matched up against Alexander Ovechkin, Alex Semin, and Brooks Laich. Not an easy assignment. Ovechkin potted two goals and an assist, but everything came with the man advantage.
The Oil Kings split a home and home with the Cgy Hitmen this week, the Rebels improved their record to 2-1 with Tuesday's 3-1 win over the Kootenay Ice.
The back end of this home and home goes Saturday at the Enmax Centrium. 7:30 puck drop, pregame show 7 p.m.
-Among some NHL camp Cuts:
Toronto has sent G James Reimer, 20, down to the AHL's Toronto Marlies.
Columbus has sent down former RD Rebel Kirill Starkov and former AAA Midget Optimist Rebel Shane Willis.
-Got a text last night from Brandon Sutter after the Carolina Hurricanes lost 5-2 to Washington. Brandon played 18 and a half minutes on the first line, and was matched up against Alexander Ovechkin, Alex Semin, and Brooks Laich. Not an easy assignment. Ovechkin potted two goals and an assist, but everything came with the man advantage.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Notes from Thursday Morning
-The Calgary Hitmen were able to knock off the Oil Kings 4-1 Wednesday night. Red Deer's Chase Schaeber looks like he could be putting together a nice year. Two more assists for Schaeber last night. The Rebels open a home and home with the Oil Kings tomorrow at Rexall Place. (7 p.m. - www.big105.fm )
-Brandon Sutter suited up for the Carolina Hurricanes last night in NHL preseason action. In a 4-1 loss to Washington, Sutter played over 15 minutes, was even on the +/- leger, and fired four shots on goal. In case you still aren't convinced......he won't be coming back.
-Among the cuts at NHL training camps yesterday, Red Deer's Paul Postma (Atlanta Thrashers) has been returned to the Cgy Hitmen, while Red Deer's Colton Scevior (Dallas Stars) will head back to the Lethbridge Hurricanes. This is bad news for the other teams in the WHL's Central Division.
-Noone was happier than my good friend Jesse Johnston yesterday. The former BIG 105 reporter is a HUGE, and I mean HUGE, Detroit Lions fan. After going 31-84 over the last seven years, The Lions finally fired President and CEO Matt Millen. Jesse, literally, went out and bought a case of Dom P. to celebrate. Congrats buddy. You can catch his NFL picks on the show this Sunday.
-Red Deer's favorite rec hockey team, the Red Deer Jets, completed "training camp" last night at Kin City A. The big news of the week, team owner Cam Ward has enshrined the Jets on his new mask this season. Seriously. check us out at www.reddeerjets.com Everey year, we play for the special olympics, and Wardo is instrumental in our fundraising. If you'd like to help out in any way, fire me an email: sports@big105.fm
AW
-Brandon Sutter suited up for the Carolina Hurricanes last night in NHL preseason action. In a 4-1 loss to Washington, Sutter played over 15 minutes, was even on the +/- leger, and fired four shots on goal. In case you still aren't convinced......he won't be coming back.
-Among the cuts at NHL training camps yesterday, Red Deer's Paul Postma (Atlanta Thrashers) has been returned to the Cgy Hitmen, while Red Deer's Colton Scevior (Dallas Stars) will head back to the Lethbridge Hurricanes. This is bad news for the other teams in the WHL's Central Division.
-Noone was happier than my good friend Jesse Johnston yesterday. The former BIG 105 reporter is a HUGE, and I mean HUGE, Detroit Lions fan. After going 31-84 over the last seven years, The Lions finally fired President and CEO Matt Millen. Jesse, literally, went out and bought a case of Dom P. to celebrate. Congrats buddy. You can catch his NFL picks on the show this Sunday.
-Red Deer's favorite rec hockey team, the Red Deer Jets, completed "training camp" last night at Kin City A. The big news of the week, team owner Cam Ward has enshrined the Jets on his new mask this season. Seriously. check us out at www.reddeerjets.com Everey year, we play for the special olympics, and Wardo is instrumental in our fundraising. If you'd like to help out in any way, fire me an email: sports@big105.fm
AW
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Red Deer 3 Kootenay 1
It wasn't exactly a Jackson Pollack last night....but a win, as they say, is a win.
Rebels 3 Ice 1
here's the summary:
1. RDR Ferraro, (2) (Mappin, Kivisto), 3:27 (PP)
2. RDR Esposito, (1) (Wray, Morin), 9:46 (PP)
3. KTN Sylvester, (1) , 11:16 (SH/PS)
3. RDR Polak, (4) , 19:32 (EN)
-------------
For the third straight game..everyone in the lineup was even or better in the plus/minus scale.
The top line continues to impress offensively. Ferraro has 2 goals and 2 assists in 3 games (more like 2 and a half) Cass Mappin has four assists, Tomas Polak has four goals.
Penalty Kill went five for five....and was MILES better than it was on the opening weekend. A big part of that was the play of Brennan Wray, Tyler Penny, and Colin Archer on the PK.
-Morgan Clark was very solid. RD allowed 42 shots, although I thought a lot of them were from the outside, especially over the first two periods.
-Head coach Jesse Wallin was happy about the two points, but NOT pleased with the game as a whole by his hockey club, saying the effort level has to be better, and that for the first time this season, the "compete factor" just wasn't there.
-That being said, a "so-so effort" by the Rebels.,.....STILL yielding two points, is a good, good sign. Last year, that just didn't happen. When Red Deer played well, they lost, when they played poorly, they lost.
-The Ice, always a good team, looked at best, out of sorts last night. They do miss John Negrin on the blueline, the straw that stirs the Kootenay drink on a lot of nights...but that being said, the players REALLY didn't take too well to losing in Red Deer, a barn in which they have historically had loads of success.
-Next up: A home and home with the Edmonton Oil Kings, beginning Friday at Rexall Place. (7 p.m. http://www.big105.fm/)
-----------------
Good article on former Red Deer Rebel Derek Meech. One of the good guys.....
http://www.canada.com/reginaleaderpost/news/sports/story.html?id=da5221a6-8165-4285-8f25-7d8a07326d63
----------
I notcied a feature in the advocate today with local sports guys and NFL picks. No call in to yours truly. This is bull.
joking.
Or am I?
for a real good overview of week four in the NFL, check out the show this weekend. 8-9 a.m. Sunday. (http://www.1067thedrive.fm/)
--------
AW
Rebels 3 Ice 1
here's the summary:
1. RDR Ferraro, (2) (Mappin, Kivisto), 3:27 (PP)
2. RDR Esposito, (1) (Wray, Morin), 9:46 (PP)
3. KTN Sylvester, (1) , 11:16 (SH/PS)
3. RDR Polak, (4) , 19:32 (EN)
-------------
For the third straight game..everyone in the lineup was even or better in the plus/minus scale.
The top line continues to impress offensively. Ferraro has 2 goals and 2 assists in 3 games (more like 2 and a half) Cass Mappin has four assists, Tomas Polak has four goals.
Penalty Kill went five for five....and was MILES better than it was on the opening weekend. A big part of that was the play of Brennan Wray, Tyler Penny, and Colin Archer on the PK.
-Morgan Clark was very solid. RD allowed 42 shots, although I thought a lot of them were from the outside, especially over the first two periods.
-Head coach Jesse Wallin was happy about the two points, but NOT pleased with the game as a whole by his hockey club, saying the effort level has to be better, and that for the first time this season, the "compete factor" just wasn't there.
-That being said, a "so-so effort" by the Rebels.,.....STILL yielding two points, is a good, good sign. Last year, that just didn't happen. When Red Deer played well, they lost, when they played poorly, they lost.
-The Ice, always a good team, looked at best, out of sorts last night. They do miss John Negrin on the blueline, the straw that stirs the Kootenay drink on a lot of nights...but that being said, the players REALLY didn't take too well to losing in Red Deer, a barn in which they have historically had loads of success.
-Next up: A home and home with the Edmonton Oil Kings, beginning Friday at Rexall Place. (7 p.m. http://www.big105.fm/)
-----------------
Good article on former Red Deer Rebel Derek Meech. One of the good guys.....
http://www.canada.com/reginaleaderpost/news/sports/story.html?id=da5221a6-8165-4285-8f25-7d8a07326d63
----------
I notcied a feature in the advocate today with local sports guys and NFL picks. No call in to yours truly. This is bull.
joking.
Or am I?
for a real good overview of week four in the NFL, check out the show this weekend. 8-9 a.m. Sunday. (http://www.1067thedrive.fm/)
--------
AW
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Red Deer - Kootenay Tonight - Enmax Centrium
7 oclock puck drop tonight.
Pregame show 6:30 on BIG 105......(www.big105.fm)
If tonight is half the game Saturday was, we should be in for a fun evening.
Lines for RED DEER tonight:
Mappin - Ferraro - Polak
Espo - Coetzee - Smith
Cowan - Ferguson - Gross
Kambeitz - Penny - Oursov
Redmond scratch.
Make sure you catch the postgame show on the drive home.
Cheers.
AW
Pregame show 6:30 on BIG 105......(www.big105.fm)
If tonight is half the game Saturday was, we should be in for a fun evening.
Lines for RED DEER tonight:
Mappin - Ferraro - Polak
Espo - Coetzee - Smith
Cowan - Ferguson - Gross
Kambeitz - Penny - Oursov
Redmond scratch.
Make sure you catch the postgame show on the drive home.
Cheers.
AW
Monday, September 22, 2008
Monday Night Note.
Good news: Rebels C Landon Ferraro will NOT be suspended for a hit from behind against Medicine Hat., and will be in the lineup Tuesday night.
AW
AW
Monday Musings
The water cooler talk today at the office, not surprisingly, the Tommi Kivisto fight in the home opener Saturday.
The Advocate's Greg Meachem described it as a "devastating right".
Pretty accurate. Put it this way, when BOTH players leave the game and don't return, you know it's been a good tilt.
- Anticipating a one or two game suspension for Landon Ferraro later today from the WHL. Being early in the season, the league is going to come down hard on hits from behind. He'll likely be out for Tuesday's tilt with the Kootenay Ice (7 p.m. - www.big105.fm)
-As for our NFL locks on MORON SPORTS this week, we were unfortunately 50-50 once again:
Walker - MIN (-2.5) CORRECT
Johnston - NYG (-13.5) WRONG
Rankin - DAL (-3.5) CORRECT
Leslie - ARZ (+3.5) WRONG
It's been a slower than expected start for the panel. So far i'm the only one to nail both locks in weeks one and two. I may have to ditch these clowns. Stay tuned for week four.
---
By the way.....plenty of fallout from the Riders-Lions game in Regina Saturday night. An interesting take on Rod Pedersen's blog. www.rodpedersen.blogspot.com
-One other note..shameless self promotion..but Red Deer's favorite rec hockey team breaks camp tonight: www.reddeerjets.com Email me if you're looking to skate.
AW
The Advocate's Greg Meachem described it as a "devastating right".
Pretty accurate. Put it this way, when BOTH players leave the game and don't return, you know it's been a good tilt.
- Anticipating a one or two game suspension for Landon Ferraro later today from the WHL. Being early in the season, the league is going to come down hard on hits from behind. He'll likely be out for Tuesday's tilt with the Kootenay Ice (7 p.m. - www.big105.fm)
-As for our NFL locks on MORON SPORTS this week, we were unfortunately 50-50 once again:
Walker - MIN (-2.5) CORRECT
Johnston - NYG (-13.5) WRONG
Rankin - DAL (-3.5) CORRECT
Leslie - ARZ (+3.5) WRONG
It's been a slower than expected start for the panel. So far i'm the only one to nail both locks in weeks one and two. I may have to ditch these clowns. Stay tuned for week four.
---
By the way.....plenty of fallout from the Riders-Lions game in Regina Saturday night. An interesting take on Rod Pedersen's blog. www.rodpedersen.blogspot.com
-One other note..shameless self promotion..but Red Deer's favorite rec hockey team breaks camp tonight: www.reddeerjets.com Email me if you're looking to skate.
AW
Sunday, September 21, 2008
REBELS 5 TIGERS 4 (SHOOTOUT)
Crazy home opener tonight at the Enmax Centrium. A 12 round shootout, the longest in Centrium history.
Here's a recap from reddeerrebels.com
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Rebels Win Home Opener
HOME OPENER FOR THE AGES
Rebel fans were treated to a little bit of everything at the Red Deer Advocate Home Opener On Saturday Night.
From the colorful fireworks display during the team introductions, to the longest shootout in Enmax Centrium history, fans didn't leave disappointed.
In almost a carbon copy of Friday night's game in Calgary, the Rebels jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, as well as a 3-2 lead in the second. They would however find themselves down 4-3 midway through the third, until Tomas Polak redirected a point shot to tie the game with a little over 4 minutes remaining tin regulation. The game would stay tied through the overtime.
The excitement came to a conclusion when The Rebels were victorious in the 12th round of the shootout. A total of 4 Rebel goals were scored within that shootout, only to have the visitors reply on the first three attempts. A low snap shot by Cody Esposito would give them that decisive goal.
The new Video Scoreboard was a hit amongst all fans, with replays and crowd shots stirring the crowd into a frenzy.
Shots on goal were 38-32 for the hometown team.
--------------
back to the blog......
here's the scoring summary:
1. RDR Ferraro, (1) (Archer, Mappin), 0:57
1. RDR Gross, (1) (Ferguson, Morin), 1:42
2. M.H Vey, (1) (Isherwood), 6:54 (PP)
2. RDR Polak, (2) (Ferraro, Archer), 9:13
2. M.H Isherwood, (2) (Dunstall, Konan), 14:34 (PP)
3. M.H Bosch, (1) (Isherwood, Okal), 4:03 (PP)
3. M.H Isherwood, (3) (Okal, Bosch), 9:55 (PP)
3. RDR Polak, (3) (Mappin), 15:57
I don't even know where to begin. This game had pretty much everything.
How about Tommi Kivisto vs Bretton Cameron?? All in all, Cameron was doing VERY well for himself in this fight, and then out of nowhere, Kivisto landed a huge right....and that was it for Cameron, Kivisto was cut up pretty bad. He left the game and didn't return with a cut under hs eye. he should be fine, he just couldnt see out of it! Also on the fight card..big John Stampohar took down Cody Esposito...which isn't easy to do.
-Landon Ferraro was given five and a game for a hit from behind in the second period. landon had a great game going with an goal and an assist to that point. I wouldnt be surprised to see him take a one-game suspension. I don't think it's deserved, but the WHL will be cracking down on hits from behind early in the season. we'll see what the verdict is Monday.
-Thebest player on the ice saturday was Tigers dman Mark Isherwood. A rocket of a shot, a great powerplay quarterback, and two goals and four points. He could put up some BIG numbers this year.
-Brennan Bosch and Linden Vey were also good for Med Hat
-For Red Deer, Luke Egener was his usual steady self..and scored in the 10th round of the shootout. the top line of Mappin, Ferrao and Polak was very good. Coetzee and ferguson were both good again, and Brennan Wray was good on the blueline once again as well.
-Morgan Clark was decent between the pipes. He came up with some big key saves at key times.
-The area of concern lies in the special teams department. this is no big secret. Jesse Wallin pointed to it again after this one. Four powerplay goals against in BOTH games so far. Unreal. but the five on five play has been absolutely tremendous. EVERY play on the roster is even or better so far this season. We'll see how many adjustments Red Deer makes on Tuesday, when the Kootenay Ice come to town.
-I almost gaurantee we'll see Josh Cowen in the lineup on Tuesday, with one of Connor Redmond or Steve Oursov coming out.
-Back to the shootout...the emotions were certainly high in this one. 12 rounds, 7 goals, wwith Cody Esposito finally putting an end to it.
For Red Deer, Cass Mappin, Steve Oursov, Luke Egener, and Cody Esposito all found the net.
For all those longtime rebel fans....i pose this question..where does this rank among the all time home openers? I remember in 2004, Colin Fraser tied the game in the final minute...that was a pretty good one that I can remember.
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Here's a recap from reddeerrebels.com
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Rebels Win Home Opener
HOME OPENER FOR THE AGES
Rebel fans were treated to a little bit of everything at the Red Deer Advocate Home Opener On Saturday Night.
From the colorful fireworks display during the team introductions, to the longest shootout in Enmax Centrium history, fans didn't leave disappointed.
In almost a carbon copy of Friday night's game in Calgary, the Rebels jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, as well as a 3-2 lead in the second. They would however find themselves down 4-3 midway through the third, until Tomas Polak redirected a point shot to tie the game with a little over 4 minutes remaining tin regulation. The game would stay tied through the overtime.
The excitement came to a conclusion when The Rebels were victorious in the 12th round of the shootout. A total of 4 Rebel goals were scored within that shootout, only to have the visitors reply on the first three attempts. A low snap shot by Cody Esposito would give them that decisive goal.
The new Video Scoreboard was a hit amongst all fans, with replays and crowd shots stirring the crowd into a frenzy.
Shots on goal were 38-32 for the hometown team.
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back to the blog......
here's the scoring summary:
1. RDR Ferraro, (1) (Archer, Mappin), 0:57
1. RDR Gross, (1) (Ferguson, Morin), 1:42
2. M.H Vey, (1) (Isherwood), 6:54 (PP)
2. RDR Polak, (2) (Ferraro, Archer), 9:13
2. M.H Isherwood, (2) (Dunstall, Konan), 14:34 (PP)
3. M.H Bosch, (1) (Isherwood, Okal), 4:03 (PP)
3. M.H Isherwood, (3) (Okal, Bosch), 9:55 (PP)
3. RDR Polak, (3) (Mappin), 15:57
I don't even know where to begin. This game had pretty much everything.
How about Tommi Kivisto vs Bretton Cameron?? All in all, Cameron was doing VERY well for himself in this fight, and then out of nowhere, Kivisto landed a huge right....and that was it for Cameron, Kivisto was cut up pretty bad. He left the game and didn't return with a cut under hs eye. he should be fine, he just couldnt see out of it! Also on the fight card..big John Stampohar took down Cody Esposito...which isn't easy to do.
-Landon Ferraro was given five and a game for a hit from behind in the second period. landon had a great game going with an goal and an assist to that point. I wouldnt be surprised to see him take a one-game suspension. I don't think it's deserved, but the WHL will be cracking down on hits from behind early in the season. we'll see what the verdict is Monday.
-Thebest player on the ice saturday was Tigers dman Mark Isherwood. A rocket of a shot, a great powerplay quarterback, and two goals and four points. He could put up some BIG numbers this year.
-Brennan Bosch and Linden Vey were also good for Med Hat
-For Red Deer, Luke Egener was his usual steady self..and scored in the 10th round of the shootout. the top line of Mappin, Ferrao and Polak was very good. Coetzee and ferguson were both good again, and Brennan Wray was good on the blueline once again as well.
-Morgan Clark was decent between the pipes. He came up with some big key saves at key times.
-The area of concern lies in the special teams department. this is no big secret. Jesse Wallin pointed to it again after this one. Four powerplay goals against in BOTH games so far. Unreal. but the five on five play has been absolutely tremendous. EVERY play on the roster is even or better so far this season. We'll see how many adjustments Red Deer makes on Tuesday, when the Kootenay Ice come to town.
-I almost gaurantee we'll see Josh Cowen in the lineup on Tuesday, with one of Connor Redmond or Steve Oursov coming out.
-Back to the shootout...the emotions were certainly high in this one. 12 rounds, 7 goals, wwith Cody Esposito finally putting an end to it.
For Red Deer, Cass Mappin, Steve Oursov, Luke Egener, and Cody Esposito all found the net.
For all those longtime rebel fans....i pose this question..where does this rank among the all time home openers? I remember in 2004, Colin Fraser tied the game in the final minute...that was a pretty good one that I can remember.
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AW
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Be sure to catch MORON SPORTS on Sunday mornign on 106.7 The Drive from 8-9 a.m.
I'll chat with Ray Ferraro, 630 CHED's Dave Campbell to preview Eskimos- Allouettes, and a full recap of the weekend in REBELS REWIND. Also..the panel is back in for our week three picks and locks in the NFL. If you followed along last year, you would have won 700 bucks. I suggest you tune in! www.1067thedrive.fm
We are streaming now online as well.
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Be sure to catch MORON SPORTS on Sunday mornign on 106.7 The Drive from 8-9 a.m.
I'll chat with Ray Ferraro, 630 CHED's Dave Campbell to preview Eskimos- Allouettes, and a full recap of the weekend in REBELS REWIND. Also..the panel is back in for our week three picks and locks in the NFL. If you followed along last year, you would have won 700 bucks. I suggest you tune in! www.1067thedrive.fm
We are streaming now online as well.
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Friday, September 19, 2008
SEASON OPENER. HITMEN 5 REBELS 3
GAME NOTES.
More to come Saturday, along with a look at the home opener. But as I try to put some thoughts together on Friday night, despite the shortcomings, for the better part of the game, Red Deer played what I thought was maybe their best game in about a year. Jesse Wallin echoed those sentiments post-game.
Red Deer dominated the first frame, getting goals from Willie Coetzee and Brett Ferguson, and took a 2-0 lead into the break.
In the second, it was Brett Sonne scoring on the powerplay for Calgary, and Tomas Polak replying for Red Deer.
From there is when the wheels fell off though. A parade to the penalty box for Red Deer. 3-2, 3-3, 4-3, and then 5-3.
Four straight pp goals for Calgary did Red Deer in. Tough to swallow, and a problem that has plagued this team during the preseason. But with a little more attention to detail, and this is a situation that can be rectified for the home opener Saturday.
As mentioned, more to come tomorrow...but let me say this: Willie Coetzee is an absolute LEGIT WHL'er. He's going to do some really good things this year.
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More to come Saturday, along with a look at the home opener. But as I try to put some thoughts together on Friday night, despite the shortcomings, for the better part of the game, Red Deer played what I thought was maybe their best game in about a year. Jesse Wallin echoed those sentiments post-game.
Red Deer dominated the first frame, getting goals from Willie Coetzee and Brett Ferguson, and took a 2-0 lead into the break.
In the second, it was Brett Sonne scoring on the powerplay for Calgary, and Tomas Polak replying for Red Deer.
From there is when the wheels fell off though. A parade to the penalty box for Red Deer. 3-2, 3-3, 4-3, and then 5-3.
Four straight pp goals for Calgary did Red Deer in. Tough to swallow, and a problem that has plagued this team during the preseason. But with a little more attention to detail, and this is a situation that can be rectified for the home opener Saturday.
As mentioned, more to come tomorrow...but let me say this: Willie Coetzee is an absolute LEGIT WHL'er. He's going to do some really good things this year.
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Thursday, September 18, 2008
Friday Lineup Change
Talked with Jesse Wallin again last night. Morgan Clark looked a bit fatigued after travelling from Vancouver Canucks rookie camp...so inset Darcy Kuemper between the pipes tonight in the opener. Clark will likely get the start in the home opener Saturday vs. Med Hat.
(7:30 p.m.) 7 oclock pregame show - http://www.big105.fm/
(7:30 p.m.) 7 oclock pregame show - http://www.big105.fm/
Lineup for Season Opener @ CGY
Rebels /Hitmen - season opener
As head coach Jesse Wallin told me this afternoon, here is the lineup for Friday night:
Pipes: Morgan Clark
it's a big season for Clark. That goes without saying. He'll be pushed by Darcy Kuemper, who had a solid camp and preseason. The starters role is Morgan's to lose..and he seems to be ready to keep it.
Blueline: Tommi Kivisto - Colin Archer
Luke Egener - Brennan Wray
Cullen Morin - Alex Petrovic
Egener is ready to go following off season shoulder surgery. We'll probably see Wray and Kivisto on the number one powerplay. Joel Kot is about two weeks away (as per Wallin) and when he returns, Wray will likely move back up .
Up Front:
As head coach Jesse Wallin told me this afternoon, here is the lineup for Friday night:
Pipes: Morgan Clark
it's a big season for Clark. That goes without saying. He'll be pushed by Darcy Kuemper, who had a solid camp and preseason. The starters role is Morgan's to lose..and he seems to be ready to keep it.
Blueline: Tommi Kivisto - Colin Archer
Luke Egener - Brennan Wray
Cullen Morin - Alex Petrovic
Egener is ready to go following off season shoulder surgery. We'll probably see Wray and Kivisto on the number one powerplay. Joel Kot is about two weeks away (as per Wallin) and when he returns, Wray will likely move back up .
Up Front:
Line one: Cass Mappin - Landon Ferraro - Tomas Polak
-This group will get every opportunity to pick up top minutes. Maybe the best part about this trio is they could concievably be together next year as well.
Line two: Cody Esposito - Willie Coetzee - Carter Smith
-line two is comprised of three players who are being rewarded for solid camps. Esposito looks like he could really be a handful this season, Coetzee looks like a different player than the one that lasted 23 games in 2007-08, and the 20 year-old Smith came into camp ready to compete.
Line three - Connor Redmond - Brett Ferguson - Cody Gross
-This trio brings three different facets into play. Redmond will provide the physical presence up the wing, Ferguson has great speed, and is good positionally, and Gross boats an underrated offensive touch. All three of these players could move up...or down the depth chart soon.
Line four - Adam Kambeitz - Tyler Penny - Steve Oursov
-Like many fourth lines, these three will look to provide some energy, although they may see more ice time then most fourth units around the league. Friday will mark the first career game for the 16 year old Kambeitz. Penny already has a year under his belt, and will see a lot of time on the PK, Oursov can skate like the wind, and needs to get in on the forecheck quickly.
Josh Cowen will be the scratch tomorrow. He's been cleared by doctors after taking a puck to the face in the pre-season, and Wallin says he'll see action within the teams first few games.
AW
Rebels Make Wednesday Night Trade
To Red Deer: 6th round bantam pick (09) 5th round bantam pick (2010)
To Regina: 18 year-old Mike Scarbourough, 17 year old Dominic Perrault
-This move means a number of things for Red Deer. First off, it means management is very comfortable with the injury status of Luke Egener. He has been cleared to play and feels good. Hopefully he can stay healthy. Defenseman Joel Kot is also practicing with contact, so he must be closer to returning than originally expected. Justin Weller is still out for a while.
Also, Brennan Wray has been practicing on the blueline this week...so on opening night, this what we'll probably be looking at:
Kivisto Morin
Archer Egener
Wray Petrovic
-The Pats making another deal as well yesterday, former Rebel Dallas Jackson was traded to Prince George.
-Not a lot of respect for Red Deer in the annual WHL writers poll. The Rebels are ranked 21st out of 22 teams, ahead of only Portland. All it means is that the guys will have a little MORE motivation for a season of redemption, as if they didn't have enough already.
Spokane is ranked number one., followed by Kelowna, Lethbridge, Brandon, and Tri City.
note** - Former Rebel Defenseman Ross Lupaschuk has been invited to the Anaheim Ducks training camp.
To Regina: 18 year-old Mike Scarbourough, 17 year old Dominic Perrault
-This move means a number of things for Red Deer. First off, it means management is very comfortable with the injury status of Luke Egener. He has been cleared to play and feels good. Hopefully he can stay healthy. Defenseman Joel Kot is also practicing with contact, so he must be closer to returning than originally expected. Justin Weller is still out for a while.
Also, Brennan Wray has been practicing on the blueline this week...so on opening night, this what we'll probably be looking at:
Kivisto Morin
Archer Egener
Wray Petrovic
-The Pats making another deal as well yesterday, former Rebel Dallas Jackson was traded to Prince George.
-Not a lot of respect for Red Deer in the annual WHL writers poll. The Rebels are ranked 21st out of 22 teams, ahead of only Portland. All it means is that the guys will have a little MORE motivation for a season of redemption, as if they didn't have enough already.
Spokane is ranked number one., followed by Kelowna, Lethbridge, Brandon, and Tri City.
note** - Former Rebel Defenseman Ross Lupaschuk has been invited to the Anaheim Ducks training camp.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Just a couple of days away.
the WHL Regualar season is nearly here. Spokane and Kootenay will get things going in Cranbrook Tomorrow night. The big night of the sked will hit Friday.
(Red Deer @ Calgary - 7 p.m.) http://www.big105.fm/
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-From Rod Pedersen's blog: http://rodpedersen.blogspot.com/
The Western Hockey League has suspended Saskatoon Blades overage forward Mike Reich for eight games for gouging the eyes of Pats defenceman Victor Bartley Saturday night in Saskatoon.
Reich told CJWW Radio in Saskatoon that he's upset with the decision..
- "Very disappointing. It's like someone getting thrown in jail for three weeks. I'm missing three weeks of hockey. It's like getting thrown in jail for three weeks for something I didn't do. They have no physical evidence I did it."
- "I didn't eye gouge him. If I wanted to eye gouge him I could've ripped his eyeball out. I didn't do it. I'm pretty sure he played a shift later. I'm pretty sure he got high-sticked earlier and got a mark on his face. So I'm just disgusted with it." - Mike Reich
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The Olds Grizzlies are struggling early on in the AJHL season. A fourth straight loss last night, 6-3 on home ice to the Cgy Canucks. The Griz host Canmore on Friday.
-Former RD Minor Hockey Star Shane Willis (pictured) will attend training camp this week with the NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets. Hopefully, Willis can finally return to form and see some time with the big club this season. He was "Scott Stevens'ed" a number of years ago in the NHL Playoffs.
-Rebels 20 year old Dman Luke Egener has been medically cleared to play by doctors. He WILL be in the Rebs lineup this Friday in CGY, meaning Kevin Woodyatt will likely not be.
-Hopefully, I'll get some idea of what the Lines will be tomorrow at Practice.
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AW
(Red Deer @ Calgary - 7 p.m.) http://www.big105.fm/
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-From Rod Pedersen's blog: http://rodpedersen.blogspot.com/
The Western Hockey League has suspended Saskatoon Blades overage forward Mike Reich for eight games for gouging the eyes of Pats defenceman Victor Bartley Saturday night in Saskatoon.
Reich told CJWW Radio in Saskatoon that he's upset with the decision..
- "Very disappointing. It's like someone getting thrown in jail for three weeks. I'm missing three weeks of hockey. It's like getting thrown in jail for three weeks for something I didn't do. They have no physical evidence I did it."
- "I didn't eye gouge him. If I wanted to eye gouge him I could've ripped his eyeball out. I didn't do it. I'm pretty sure he played a shift later. I'm pretty sure he got high-sticked earlier and got a mark on his face. So I'm just disgusted with it." - Mike Reich
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The Olds Grizzlies are struggling early on in the AJHL season. A fourth straight loss last night, 6-3 on home ice to the Cgy Canucks. The Griz host Canmore on Friday.
-Former RD Minor Hockey Star Shane Willis (pictured) will attend training camp this week with the NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets. Hopefully, Willis can finally return to form and see some time with the big club this season. He was "Scott Stevens'ed" a number of years ago in the NHL Playoffs.
-Rebels 20 year old Dman Luke Egener has been medically cleared to play by doctors. He WILL be in the Rebs lineup this Friday in CGY, meaning Kevin Woodyatt will likely not be.
-Hopefully, I'll get some idea of what the Lines will be tomorrow at Practice.
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AW
Monday, September 15, 2008
Monday Musings
Talk about a solid preseason record. The Red Deer Rebels finish up the exhibition portion at 5-1 following Saturday's 2-1 victory over Med Hat in Innisfail.
Summary:
First period - No Scoring
Second Period:
1. RD - Adam Kambeitz (Oursov) 7:58
2. MH - Wacey Hamilton 11:57 pp
Third Period:
3. RD - Tommi Kivisto 9:27 pp
Red Deer was outshot 24-15...Another solid performance from Darcy Kuemper.
Wacey Hamilton of the Tigers started a big of a brawl with a late hit from behind. There was some speculation that a suspension or two could result heading into the season's opening week, but apparently, the way the ref wrote it up wasn't too incriminating, so Red Deer looks to have escaped.
Not that scoring the opening goal changes his situation any, but Adam Kambeitz, to me, is one of the biggest surprises in camp. At 16 years of age, he has made the team, and forced at least two experienced players (Colby Kulhanek, Brett Miller) to be ushered out.
The Rebels will open up the season Friday night in Calgary. Listen live online http://www.big105.fm/
Summary:
First period - No Scoring
Second Period:
1. RD - Adam Kambeitz (Oursov) 7:58
2. MH - Wacey Hamilton 11:57 pp
Third Period:
3. RD - Tommi Kivisto 9:27 pp
Red Deer was outshot 24-15...Another solid performance from Darcy Kuemper.
Wacey Hamilton of the Tigers started a big of a brawl with a late hit from behind. There was some speculation that a suspension or two could result heading into the season's opening week, but apparently, the way the ref wrote it up wasn't too incriminating, so Red Deer looks to have escaped.
Not that scoring the opening goal changes his situation any, but Adam Kambeitz, to me, is one of the biggest surprises in camp. At 16 years of age, he has made the team, and forced at least two experienced players (Colby Kulhanek, Brett Miller) to be ushered out.
The Rebels will open up the season Friday night in Calgary. Listen live online http://www.big105.fm/
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A few other notes as hockey gets ready to explode full blast this coming weekend:
The AAA Midget Optimist Rebels took home their preseason tournament in Strathmore with a 7-4 win over UFA.
The AAA Bantams (White) host the CGY Bisons in their opener Saturday afternoon. The Black squad will host the CGY Royals.
- Former Rebel captain Brett Sutter scored the lone goal for the CGY Flames rookie squad in a 1-0 win over the EDM Oiler rookies in Camrose Sunday night.
The mini tourney continues Monday with CGY vs. VAN, and then Tuesday with EDM vs. VAN
-If you followed along with the panel's NFL locks this weekend on MORON SPORTS...you didn't win.
Walker - NYG (-8.5) CORRECT
Johnston - TEN (+1.5) CORRECT
Rankin - PIT (-5.5) WRONG
Leslie - NWO (+0.5) WRONG
Close, but no cigar. Maybe next week.
www.1067thedrive.fm
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AW
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Rebels 4 Hitmen 2
A 4-2 win over the Cgy Hitmen in Lacombe Friday night, moving the preseason record to 4-1. Red Deer will wrap up the exhibition portion of their sked tonight in Innisfail vs. Med Hat (7:30)
Do preseason results mean anything? No. Is it better to win then lose? Yes.
Here's the summary:
1. CGY - Fox - 8:49 pp
2. RD - Penny - 14:28
3. RD - Mappin - 17:55
4. RD - Morin - 19:42
5. CGY - Golicic (Bonsor) 7:03
6. RD - Coetzee (Mappin) - 13:33
Darcy Kuemper went the distance between the pipes, and stopped 23 of 25 shots. I have been extremely pleased with what I have seen from Kuemper over the last month or so. In my books, he's neck and neck with Clark to start opening night in Calgary. (Which at Sept. 19th, is less than a week away)
Coming up Sunday morning on MORON SPORTS - I'll talk some Rebels with Cody Gross and Luke Egener. Bentley Generals GM Jeff Mcinnis will join me to discuss the Theo Fleury situation....I'll take a look at the Oilers-Flames -Canucks rookie tourney in Camrose, and the panel weighs in with our picks and locks for week two.
The show is live online as well.
8 - 9 a.m. http://www.1067thedrive.fm/
Here's the summary:
1. CGY - Fox - 8:49 pp
2. RD - Penny - 14:28
3. RD - Mappin - 17:55
4. RD - Morin - 19:42
5. CGY - Golicic (Bonsor) 7:03
6. RD - Coetzee (Mappin) - 13:33
Darcy Kuemper went the distance between the pipes, and stopped 23 of 25 shots. I have been extremely pleased with what I have seen from Kuemper over the last month or so. In my books, he's neck and neck with Clark to start opening night in Calgary. (Which at Sept. 19th, is less than a week away)
Coming up Sunday morning on MORON SPORTS - I'll talk some Rebels with Cody Gross and Luke Egener. Bentley Generals GM Jeff Mcinnis will join me to discuss the Theo Fleury situation....I'll take a look at the Oilers-Flames -Canucks rookie tourney in Camrose, and the panel weighs in with our picks and locks for week two.
The show is live online as well.
8 - 9 a.m. http://www.1067thedrive.fm/
Friday, September 12, 2008
Friday Notes
Its the final weekend of the WHL preseason.
Tonight, the Rebels will take on the Calgary Hitmen in Lacombe - (7:30 start)
Tomorrow, vs the Medicine Hat Tigers in Innisfail.
The roster was pared down even more yesterday. With the Kulhanek trade, and the re-assignment of 17 year-old Brett Miller to the SJHL, there are 15 forwards remaining in camp. (Brandon Sutter will head to Carolina next week)
When it comes to Miller, the fact that he didn't make this team has to be dissapointing. A former first round pick (14th overall) in 2006 and a very nice sized 6'2'' and 190 lbs. Maybe next season. Up front, that may be it for cuts.....
16 year-old Adam Kambietz is still around, which is a pleasant surprise. Newcomer Brett Ferguson continues to impress, and Josh Cowen has competed for a spot just like coaching staff had hoped.
As for the Defense. While Luke Egener hasn't played in the preseason, he says he'll be ready to go opening night. If he isn't, I would expect Kevin Woodyatt to see some action on the first weekend.
AW
Tonight, the Rebels will take on the Calgary Hitmen in Lacombe - (7:30 start)
Tomorrow, vs the Medicine Hat Tigers in Innisfail.
The roster was pared down even more yesterday. With the Kulhanek trade, and the re-assignment of 17 year-old Brett Miller to the SJHL, there are 15 forwards remaining in camp. (Brandon Sutter will head to Carolina next week)
When it comes to Miller, the fact that he didn't make this team has to be dissapointing. A former first round pick (14th overall) in 2006 and a very nice sized 6'2'' and 190 lbs. Maybe next season. Up front, that may be it for cuts.....
16 year-old Adam Kambietz is still around, which is a pleasant surprise. Newcomer Brett Ferguson continues to impress, and Josh Cowen has competed for a spot just like coaching staff had hoped.
As for the Defense. While Luke Egener hasn't played in the preseason, he says he'll be ready to go opening night. If he isn't, I would expect Kevin Woodyatt to see some action on the first weekend.
AW
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Trade
Rebels made a deal this afternoon.
19 year old F Colby Kulhanek to the P.G. Cougars.
6th round bantam pick back the other way.
This is definitely good news for forwards Brett Ferguson, Adam Kambietz, and Josh Cowen. One less player for them to beat out for a spot.
G Morgan Clark has left the team to join the Vancouver Canucks for rookie camp.
Carolina first-rounder Brandon Sutter will leave for 'Canes camp on the 18th.
19 year old F Colby Kulhanek to the P.G. Cougars.
6th round bantam pick back the other way.
This is definitely good news for forwards Brett Ferguson, Adam Kambietz, and Josh Cowen. One less player for them to beat out for a spot.
G Morgan Clark has left the team to join the Vancouver Canucks for rookie camp.
Carolina first-rounder Brandon Sutter will leave for 'Canes camp on the 18th.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Tuesday Night Preseason - Injury
- Some bad news confirmed today. Very bad news. Defenseman Justin Weller will miss the next month with a cracked fibula. I was so impressed with Weller's improvement in camp this season. Easily a top four guy. This basically opens up a top six role form Mike Scarborough to start the season. Opening night projection:
Kivisto Morin
Archer Petrovic
Egener Scarbs
Obviously, the combos could change in time for opening night. joel kot will likely start the season on the IR, and if Luke Egener isn't ready to go (shoulder) we could see Kevin Woodyatt opening night.
Red Deer Rebels 5 Edmonton Oil Kings 3 (@ Leduc)
If the Rebels are going to challenge for a playoff spot this season, much like last year, they'll need two things. Balanced scoring and solid goaltending. (And by balanced scoring, I mean like five or six players with 15 or 20 goals..not 10 players with five goals).
Last night in Leduc , they got both.
Morgan Clark made 37 saves, and five different players found the net in the
5-3 victory.
1. RD - Kivisto (Ferraro) :45
2. RD - Ferraro (Kivisto - Gross) 6:22 (pp)
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3. EDM - McCallum 4:52
4. RD - Esposito (Coetzee - Oursov) 14:53
5. RD - Gross (Penny) 18:48 (sh)
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6. EDM - Dowd (McCallum) 5:24 (pp)
7. EDM - Vincour (Lee-Burns) 11:46
8. RD - Ferguson (Coetzee-Morin) 16:13 (pp)
Defenseman Tommi Kivisto is getting more and more comfortable every day...and it's pretty evident he will be this teams go to guy on the back end. Nice to see Esposito keep up his strong preseason, and Willie Coetzee is definitely making a case to play in the top six.
AW
Kivisto Morin
Archer Petrovic
Egener Scarbs
Obviously, the combos could change in time for opening night. joel kot will likely start the season on the IR, and if Luke Egener isn't ready to go (shoulder) we could see Kevin Woodyatt opening night.
Red Deer Rebels 5 Edmonton Oil Kings 3 (@ Leduc)
If the Rebels are going to challenge for a playoff spot this season, much like last year, they'll need two things. Balanced scoring and solid goaltending. (And by balanced scoring, I mean like five or six players with 15 or 20 goals..not 10 players with five goals).
Last night in Leduc , they got both.
Morgan Clark made 37 saves, and five different players found the net in the
5-3 victory.1. RD - Kivisto (Ferraro) :45
2. RD - Ferraro (Kivisto - Gross) 6:22 (pp)
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3. EDM - McCallum 4:52
4. RD - Esposito (Coetzee - Oursov) 14:53
5. RD - Gross (Penny) 18:48 (sh)
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6. EDM - Dowd (McCallum) 5:24 (pp)
7. EDM - Vincour (Lee-Burns) 11:46
8. RD - Ferguson (Coetzee-Morin) 16:13 (pp)
Defenseman Tommi Kivisto is getting more and more comfortable every day...and it's pretty evident he will be this teams go to guy on the back end. Nice to see Esposito keep up his strong preseason, and Willie Coetzee is definitely making a case to play in the top six.
AW
Monday, September 8, 2008
More on Theo
Some more Theoren Fleury talk.
Talked to Jeff Mcginnis of the Generals this morning. Theo wants in. Brian Sutter wants him in. The only question now...is it really going to happen?
The Generals obviously know that this is going to loads for them in the publicity category..but at the same time...winning is the goal, and you never want the team to take on a circus mentality.
Courting big names is nothing new. Kelly Buchberger played a few years ago. (Ryan Smyth WANTED to play during the lockout) Last year, it was Terry Ryan, Darryl Laplante, and Dwayne Hay. Joel Stepp played for a bit last year before returning to the minor pro ranks.
At this point, I would say it looks like it's going to happen. Stay Tuned. I'll be sure to have all the reaction on the show this weekend.
http://www.1067thedrive.fm/
AW
Talked to Jeff Mcginnis of the Generals this morning. Theo wants in. Brian Sutter wants him in. The only question now...is it really going to happen?
The Generals obviously know that this is going to loads for them in the publicity category..but at the same time...winning is the goal, and you never want the team to take on a circus mentality.
Courting big names is nothing new. Kelly Buchberger played a few years ago. (Ryan Smyth WANTED to play during the lockout) Last year, it was Terry Ryan, Darryl Laplante, and Dwayne Hay. Joel Stepp played for a bit last year before returning to the minor pro ranks.
At this point, I would say it looks like it's going to happen. Stay Tuned. I'll be sure to have all the reaction on the show this weekend.
http://www.1067thedrive.fm/
AW
Monday Notes
Back from Kelowna late last night. I love that trip every year. Flight time 52 minutes. Beautiful scenery, great golf. Fantastic.
The Rebels, winning back to back preseason games Friday and Saturday over the Kootenay Ice. Win or lose, preseason results usually mean squat...but it doesn't mean it's not encouraging for Rebel fans.
Friday: Red Deer 5 Kootenay 0 (@ Stettler)
1. Cody Esposito (Carter Smith, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins)
2. Cass Mappin (Alex Petrovic, Cullen Morin) pp
3. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (Cody Esposito, Carter Smith)
4. Brennan Wray
5. Brennan Wray 2 (Mike Scarborough, Alex Petrovic)
Red Deer outshot Kootenay 25-19. 16 year old Cam Gorchynski picked up the shutout.
----------
Saturday: Red Deer 2 Kootenay 1 (@ Cranbrook)
1. Connor Redmond (Tyler Penny, Tommi Kivisto)
2. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (Cass Mappin) pp
Goaltender Darcy Kuemper was apparently outstanding. 34 saves for the win, 20 alone coming in the third period. Kuemper has officially made the club, as Gorchynski, along with Nugent-Hopkins, were both reassigned to AAA Midget in B.C. Both are HUGE parts of Red Deer's future.
---------------
Out West, Red Deer native Justin Feser is making a case to stick with the Tri City Americans as a 16 year old. Feser potted a goal and added an assist Sunday night as Tri City knocks off Portland 4-1.
----------
As per Eric Francis in the Calgary Sun this morning: The Bentley Generals are apparently courting former NHL superstar Theo Fleury for the upcoming Sr. AAA Chinook League season.
------------------
I'll be honest...i'm NOT a big UFC Guy. That being said, it's always nice to keep tabs on local talent. Red Deer's Jason McDonald, winning his fight at UFC 88 in Atlanta on Saturday. A secodn round choke-out of Jason Lambert. Mcdonald moves to 22-10 in his career. 5-3 in the UFC.
AW
The Rebels, winning back to back preseason games Friday and Saturday over the Kootenay Ice. Win or lose, preseason results usually mean squat...but it doesn't mean it's not encouraging for Rebel fans.
Friday: Red Deer 5 Kootenay 0 (@ Stettler)
1. Cody Esposito (Carter Smith, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins)
2. Cass Mappin (Alex Petrovic, Cullen Morin) pp
3. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (Cody Esposito, Carter Smith)
4. Brennan Wray
5. Brennan Wray 2 (Mike Scarborough, Alex Petrovic)
Red Deer outshot Kootenay 25-19. 16 year old Cam Gorchynski picked up the shutout.
----------
Saturday: Red Deer 2 Kootenay 1 (@ Cranbrook)
1. Connor Redmond (Tyler Penny, Tommi Kivisto)
2. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (Cass Mappin) pp
Goaltender Darcy Kuemper was apparently outstanding. 34 saves for the win, 20 alone coming in the third period. Kuemper has officially made the club, as Gorchynski, along with Nugent-Hopkins, were both reassigned to AAA Midget in B.C. Both are HUGE parts of Red Deer's future.
---------------
Out West, Red Deer native Justin Feser is making a case to stick with the Tri City Americans as a 16 year old. Feser potted a goal and added an assist Sunday night as Tri City knocks off Portland 4-1.
----------
As per Eric Francis in the Calgary Sun this morning: The Bentley Generals are apparently courting former NHL superstar Theo Fleury for the upcoming Sr. AAA Chinook League season.
------------------
I'll be honest...i'm NOT a big UFC Guy. That being said, it's always nice to keep tabs on local talent. Red Deer's Jason McDonald, winning his fight at UFC 88 in Atlanta on Saturday. A secodn round choke-out of Jason Lambert. Mcdonald moves to 22-10 in his career. 5-3 in the UFC.
AW
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Some Thursday Notes
-I will be unable to blog this weekend, as I am hopping a flight to Kelowna Friday afternoon for a hockey draft with some buddies. Yes, a hockey draft. Please reserve judgment.
-The Chilliwack Bruins have returned 15 year-old Red Deer product Mitch Topping to the AAA Midget Optimist Rebels. Topping, maybe the best skater taken in the Bantam Draft (8th overall) is going to be a good one.
-Practice for the Rebels this aft. More to come....
-The Chilliwack Bruins have returned 15 year-old Red Deer product Mitch Topping to the AAA Midget Optimist Rebels. Topping, maybe the best skater taken in the Bantam Draft (8th overall) is going to be a good one.
-Practice for the Rebels this aft. More to come....
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Hitmen 6 Rebels 3
-The Rebels drop a 6-3 decision to the Cgy Hitmen in their preseason opener last night.
Scoring for Red Deer:
Scoring for Red Deer:
Willie Coetzee (Colin Archer)
Willie Coetzee 2 (Kevin Woodyatt)
Colin Archer (Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Brett Miller ) PP
-Darcy Kuemper went the distance for Red Deer between the pipes.
-The big factor in this one was special teams. The Hitmen manage to put up FIVE goals with the man advantage. Head Coach Jesse Wallin, saying that the penalty kill was something that hasn't yet been a point of focus, and it showed.
-Here are some quotes from head coach Jesse Wallin postgame:
"I thought we had a pretty good start. I thought we came out hard and did some good things early five on five, but then obviously got into some penalty trouble and we haven't spent a lot of time on the penalty kill. We got caught giving up a lot point shots...I think we gave up about nine or ten shots from the point."
"It's evident that we need some work on the penlaty kill and in particular our wingers up top in our own end of the rink. But I thought five on five we did some good things..and made some mistakes...but we expected that a bit. It was progress. We have a long way to go, but it was a start.
On Willie Coetzee:
"I thought Coetzee was outstanding. I thought Willie's strength was really evident tonight. One on one his skills are very solid. What a difference a year makes. He's got the strength now to get by guys. He was strong down low, he took the puck to the net and played with a lot of courage, so that was good to see."
On Ryan Nugent-Hopkins:
"I thought Hopkins was excellent. For a 15 year old kid, very good awareness in both ends of the rink. He made a heck of a play on the powerplay for our last goal."
On Daulton Siwak:
Siwak was very good. By all accounts he had a very strong camp with the Midget AAA's, and carried that on into here. He made some mistakes defensively that we expected, but his effort is excellent and he competes both ways.
-Next up for the Rebels, a preseason tilt with the Kootenay Ice, Friday night in Stettler.
Willie Coetzee 2 (Kevin Woodyatt)
Colin Archer (Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Brett Miller ) PP
-Darcy Kuemper went the distance for Red Deer between the pipes.
-The big factor in this one was special teams. The Hitmen manage to put up FIVE goals with the man advantage. Head Coach Jesse Wallin, saying that the penalty kill was something that hasn't yet been a point of focus, and it showed.
-Here are some quotes from head coach Jesse Wallin postgame:
"I thought we had a pretty good start. I thought we came out hard and did some good things early five on five, but then obviously got into some penalty trouble and we haven't spent a lot of time on the penalty kill. We got caught giving up a lot point shots...I think we gave up about nine or ten shots from the point."
"It's evident that we need some work on the penlaty kill and in particular our wingers up top in our own end of the rink. But I thought five on five we did some good things..and made some mistakes...but we expected that a bit. It was progress. We have a long way to go, but it was a start.
On Willie Coetzee:
"I thought Coetzee was outstanding. I thought Willie's strength was really evident tonight. One on one his skills are very solid. What a difference a year makes. He's got the strength now to get by guys. He was strong down low, he took the puck to the net and played with a lot of courage, so that was good to see."
On Ryan Nugent-Hopkins:
"I thought Hopkins was excellent. For a 15 year old kid, very good awareness in both ends of the rink. He made a heck of a play on the powerplay for our last goal."
On Daulton Siwak:
Siwak was very good. By all accounts he had a very strong camp with the Midget AAA's, and carried that on into here. He made some mistakes defensively that we expected, but his effort is excellent and he competes both ways.
-Next up for the Rebels, a preseason tilt with the Kootenay Ice, Friday night in Stettler.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Preseason Opens Tonight
The Red Deer Rebels will open up the preseason tonight on the road in Calgary. For the last number of years, this game has been held in Airdrie, but this season, it's been moved to the Centennial Arena. Game time is 7 oclock. No word yet on what veterans will be sitting, but it will be interesting to see how 15 year-olds Ryan Nugent Hopkins and Daulton Siwak stack up on a bit of a larger scale........
Hopefully more game-day news and notes to come throughout the day.
-Did anyone expect the shellacking that the Edmonton Eskimos laid on the Calgary Stampeders yesterday? Not me. I figured Calgary by four, and then a split in Friday's rematch. The Eskimos though, are now clearly in the drivers seat when it comes to the top two positions in the CFL West.
-Red Deer's Chase Schaeber, who is going into his 17 year-old season with the Hitmen, is still recovering from an off-season shoulder injury. Hopefully, the former first round bantam pick gets healthy quickly.
-Also, Cam Maclise, who played for the AAA Midget Optimist Rebels last season, is hangin' in there with the Edmonton Oil Kings. He potted a goal yesterday in a preseason win over Med Hat.
-From the Edmonton Journal this morning:
Former Edmonton Oilers tough guy Louie Debrusk will be the new SportsNet TV Colour commentator this season for Oiler broadcasts. Debrusk has worked for the Coyotes radio broadcast over the last four seasons, and replaces Ray Ferraro, who is on the move to TSN. (Ferraro is replacing Glen Healy....thank god)
-Also in the running reportedly were Global TV's Kevin Karius, SportsNet's Sam Cosentino (great guy) andformer NHL'er Marty McSorley. To be honest, i'm glad Karius DIDN'T get it. A nice guy, but his stereotypical Canadian style kind of gets under my skin. ("Oh for sure ya know...eh?) Know what I mean? If it was up to me, I would have given Morley Scott a shot at it. The former 630 CHED color-man was unceremoniously canned a couple of weeks ago. A class act, and he does a hell of a job too.
Hopefully more game-day news and notes to come throughout the day.-Did anyone expect the shellacking that the Edmonton Eskimos laid on the Calgary Stampeders yesterday? Not me. I figured Calgary by four, and then a split in Friday's rematch. The Eskimos though, are now clearly in the drivers seat when it comes to the top two positions in the CFL West.
-Red Deer's Chase Schaeber, who is going into his 17 year-old season with the Hitmen, is still recovering from an off-season shoulder injury. Hopefully, the former first round bantam pick gets healthy quickly.
-Also, Cam Maclise, who played for the AAA Midget Optimist Rebels last season, is hangin' in there with the Edmonton Oil Kings. He potted a goal yesterday in a preseason win over Med Hat.
-From the Edmonton Journal this morning:
Former Edmonton Oilers tough guy Louie Debrusk will be the new SportsNet TV Colour commentator this season for Oiler broadcasts. Debrusk has worked for the Coyotes radio broadcast over the last four seasons, and replaces Ray Ferraro, who is on the move to TSN. (Ferraro is replacing Glen Healy....thank god)
-Also in the running reportedly were Global TV's Kevin Karius, SportsNet's Sam Cosentino (great guy) andformer NHL'er Marty McSorley. To be honest, i'm glad Karius DIDN'T get it. A nice guy, but his stereotypical Canadian style kind of gets under my skin. ("Oh for sure ya know...eh?) Know what I mean? If it was up to me, I would have given Morley Scott a shot at it. The former 630 CHED color-man was unceremoniously canned a couple of weeks ago. A class act, and he does a hell of a job too.
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