Kevin Woodyatt
DOB: May 19, 1992
Position: Defence
HT: 5’11”
WT: 192lbs
So...if youre in the business of putting two and two together...barring a trade, Barak, Deagle and Innisfail's Nick Bell have made the team
Friday, August 28, 2009
Worst Kept Secret
The Red Deer Rebels Hockey Club announced today 17-year old defenceman Kevin Woodyatt has been released. Woodyatt was a Rebels’ 6th round selection, 128th overall, in the 2007 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft. He played 3 games with the Rebels during the 2008-2009 season.
Update - Friday
In at the moment for one last kick at summer, until then, updates may be sporadic at best.
Rebels Re-assign Three More Players
Name Pos. Hometown YOB
Tyson Ness F Grande Prairie, AB 93
Jordan Neduzak F Morden, MB 92
Matt Pufahl D Saskatoon, SK 93
So...On the previous list, adjust accordingly. Pufahl injured his shoulder on the first day, so that was an unfortunate situation for a defenseman that could have threatened for a spot.
Neduzak is the biggest surprise given the fact that a lot of people had him penciled in for a spot before the camp started. The truth of the matter is though, he didn't have the strongest of camps.
AW
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Who's Left in Camp?
The Red Deer Rebels will open up their preseason this Saturday in St. Albert (vs MJ Warriors).
Between now and the season opener on September 18th, Red Deer will play six preseason games in order to whittle down the roster.
Wednesday, September 2 vs Calgary @ Centennial Arena (Cgy) 7:00PM
Friday, September 4 vs Edmonton @ Stettler 7:30PM
Saturday, September 5 vs Edmonton @ Leduc 7:00PM
Friday, September 11 vs Kootenay @ Innisfail 7:30PM
Saturday, September 12 vs Calgary @ Lacombe 7:30PM
So, who is left standing after training camp, and what spots are available?
In terms of goaltenders, there are three left in camp, Darcy Kuemper (19), Kraymer Barnstable (19), and Cam Gorchynski (17). Kuemper will be the number one on this team, leaving the other two to battle for the backup role.
On the blueline, there are 10 defenseman left. Make it 9, as 15 year-old Matt Dumba can't stick, but will get a chance to showcase his skills in the preseason. With a top four of Cullen Morin (20), Alex Petrovic (17), Justin Weller (18) and Colin Archer (19), that leaves five players (Nick Bell, Kevin Woodyatt, the injured Matt Pufhal, import Jindra Barak, and Brad Deagle) to fight for three spots. Bell left the B&W game with what's being called a "mild ankle sprain", but I still think he has an inside track on one of the jobs.
Up front, there are pretty much 11 spots spoken for at this point, with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Landon Ferraro, Nathan Green, Willie Coetzee, Cass Mappin, Brett Ferguson, Connor Redmond, John Persson, Josh Cowen, Adam Kambeitz, and one of two 20 year-olds, Jordie Deagle and Cody Esposito, all likely to stick.
Assuming the team dresses 12 forwards and keeps two spares, there are three jobs available. Not counting Mason Burr, the only 15 year old left, there are eight players battling for three open spots on the team. They are:
Brett Miller (18)
Jesse Mireau (18)
Jordan Neduzak (17)
Turner Elson (17)
Chad Robinson (16)
Tyson Ness (16)
Colten Mayor (16)
Daulton Siwak (16)
-Siwak has mono, and will be out until September sometime. Heading into camp, he was widely expected to be on the team, so we'll see what the club decides to do. Jesse Mireau and Turner Elson both helped themselves with strong performances in the Black and White game, while Colten Mayor, in my books, has done nothing but impress from day one. Another quiet three points last night.
Who makes it? Who gets re-assigned? The coaching staff has two weeks of preseason to figure it out. What do you think?
AW - sports@big105.fm
Between now and the season opener on September 18th, Red Deer will play six preseason games in order to whittle down the roster.
Wednesday, September 2 vs Calgary @ Centennial Arena (Cgy) 7:00PM
Friday, September 4 vs Edmonton @ Stettler 7:30PM
Saturday, September 5 vs Edmonton @ Leduc 7:00PM
Friday, September 11 vs Kootenay @ Innisfail 7:30PM
Saturday, September 12 vs Calgary @ Lacombe 7:30PM
So, who is left standing after training camp, and what spots are available?
In terms of goaltenders, there are three left in camp, Darcy Kuemper (19), Kraymer Barnstable (19), and Cam Gorchynski (17). Kuemper will be the number one on this team, leaving the other two to battle for the backup role.
On the blueline, there are 10 defenseman left. Make it 9, as 15 year-old Matt Dumba can't stick, but will get a chance to showcase his skills in the preseason. With a top four of Cullen Morin (20), Alex Petrovic (17), Justin Weller (18) and Colin Archer (19), that leaves five players (Nick Bell, Kevin Woodyatt, the injured Matt Pufhal, import Jindra Barak, and Brad Deagle) to fight for three spots. Bell left the B&W game with what's being called a "mild ankle sprain", but I still think he has an inside track on one of the jobs.
Up front, there are pretty much 11 spots spoken for at this point, with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Landon Ferraro, Nathan Green, Willie Coetzee, Cass Mappin, Brett Ferguson, Connor Redmond, John Persson, Josh Cowen, Adam Kambeitz, and one of two 20 year-olds, Jordie Deagle and Cody Esposito, all likely to stick.
Assuming the team dresses 12 forwards and keeps two spares, there are three jobs available. Not counting Mason Burr, the only 15 year old left, there are eight players battling for three open spots on the team. They are:
Brett Miller (18)
Jesse Mireau (18)
Jordan Neduzak (17)
Turner Elson (17)
Chad Robinson (16)
Tyson Ness (16)
Colten Mayor (16)
Daulton Siwak (16)
-Siwak has mono, and will be out until September sometime. Heading into camp, he was widely expected to be on the team, so we'll see what the club decides to do. Jesse Mireau and Turner Elson both helped themselves with strong performances in the Black and White game, while Colten Mayor, in my books, has done nothing but impress from day one. Another quiet three points last night.
Who makes it? Who gets re-assigned? The coaching staff has two weeks of preseason to figure it out. What do you think?
AW - sports@big105.fm
Black 8 White 6 - Preseason Up Next
Team Black 8 Team White 6 - (Enmax Centrium)
The new look line of Landon Ferraro, Willie Coetzee, and Jordie Deagle combined for six goals and 12 points Wednesday night, as Team Black skated to victory in the annual McDonalds Black and White game.
Coetzee held the hottest hand, netting three goals, including two on wicked wrist shots, to go along with two assists for a five point night. Ferraro opened the scoring and finished with two and one. Deagle played set up man, finishing with one and three.
Here's the complete summary:
1. Black - Ferraro 1 (Deagle, Persson)
1. Black - Coetzee 1 (Ferraro, Deagle)
1. White - Esposito 1 (Ferguson)
1. White - Mireau 1 (penalty shot)
1. White - Mireau 2 (Mayor, Burr)
1. White - Mireau 3 (Mayor, Burr)
1. Black - Coetzee 2
2. Black - Miller 1 (Elson)
2. Black - Coetzee 3 (Deagle, Woodyatt)
3. Black - Deagle 1 (Coetzee)
3. White - Mayor 1 (Ferguson)
3. Black - McCoy 1 (Archer, Hamilton)
3. White - Morin 1 (penalty shot)
3. Black - Ferraro 2 (Coetzee)
After the game, the team re-assigned 12 players in advance of the preseason.
Channing Bresciani D Winnipeg, MB 93
Lucas Grayson D Port Hardy, BC 94
Joel Hamilton F Cochrane, AB 94
Mitch Kaufmann D Red Deer, AB 91
Luke Madill D Red Deer, AB 92
Brenden Mandrusiak G Red Deer, AB 93
Tyson McCallum F Dawson Creek, BC 93
Marc McCoy F Edmonton, AB 94
Chase McMurphy F Chestermere, AB 94
Colten Meaver F Edmonton, AB 93
Kirsten Odendaal D Red Deer, AB 93
Zach Rakochy G Canora, MB 93
More to come on what's left in camp.....
The new look line of Landon Ferraro, Willie Coetzee, and Jordie Deagle combined for six goals and 12 points Wednesday night, as Team Black skated to victory in the annual McDonalds Black and White game.
Coetzee held the hottest hand, netting three goals, including two on wicked wrist shots, to go along with two assists for a five point night. Ferraro opened the scoring and finished with two and one. Deagle played set up man, finishing with one and three.
Here's the complete summary:
1. Black - Ferraro 1 (Deagle, Persson)
1. Black - Coetzee 1 (Ferraro, Deagle)
1. White - Esposito 1 (Ferguson)
1. White - Mireau 1 (penalty shot)
1. White - Mireau 2 (Mayor, Burr)
1. White - Mireau 3 (Mayor, Burr)
1. Black - Coetzee 2
2. Black - Miller 1 (Elson)
2. Black - Coetzee 3 (Deagle, Woodyatt)
3. Black - Deagle 1 (Coetzee)
3. White - Mayor 1 (Ferguson)
3. Black - McCoy 1 (Archer, Hamilton)
3. White - Morin 1 (penalty shot)
3. Black - Ferraro 2 (Coetzee)
After the game, the team re-assigned 12 players in advance of the preseason.
Channing Bresciani D Winnipeg, MB 93
Lucas Grayson D Port Hardy, BC 94
Joel Hamilton F Cochrane, AB 94
Mitch Kaufmann D Red Deer, AB 91
Luke Madill D Red Deer, AB 92
Brenden Mandrusiak G Red Deer, AB 93
Tyson McCallum F Dawson Creek, BC 93
Marc McCoy F Edmonton, AB 94
Chase McMurphy F Chestermere, AB 94
Colten Meaver F Edmonton, AB 93
Kirsten Odendaal D Red Deer, AB 93
Zach Rakochy G Canora, MB 93
More to come on what's left in camp.....
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
What About Landon?
Four days of camp, and other than a few scoring summaries, I really haven't touched much on Red Deer's leading scorer from last season, 18 year-old, 37 goal man Landon Ferraro.Not that he has been underwhelming at all, but I suppose it speaks to Ferraro's rapid ascent into the "sure things" category that we've started to take his role for granted a little bit.
Ferraro, simply put, has had another very strong camp, and remains poised for a big-time year as the clubs first line center. Day one was interesting to watch, because while Landon fought the puck a little bit and didn't really get a chance to unleash that trademark snapshot while flying up the wing, he was still noticably different then the player who led the team in scoring last season.
He appears a bit bigger, a bit older, and better down low. I don't know if I've seen Ferraro lose a battle along the half wall or in the corners all week long. On a couple of occasions, a younger player in a scrimmage would take a bit of a run at him, and bounce off like he had hit a parked car. This is a stronger version of an already very good player.
After a slower first day, Ferraro has consistently found the net in the scrimmages. A goal (off a nifty deflection from a Matt Dumba point shot) and an assist Tuesday night. Another goal Monday night, and the shootout winner Sunday night.
After being taken in the second round, 32nd overall, by the Detroit Red Wings in this summer's draft, and with the best supporting cast he has seen since his rookie season, one wonders what the ceiling is numbers wise for Ferraro.
Some would say, with Ryan Nugent Hopkins distributing the puck on the powerplay, that 50 goals is within reach. That is, after all, only 13 more than last season. Personally, I would think the goals may rise slightly, but we'll likely see the assists total go up. Rather than a 37-18 -55 season, I think we could maybe see a 40-37-77 type of season, or something close to.
Ferraro will likely center Willie Coetzee and Jordie Deagle in the Black and White game tonight ( 7 p.m. - Enmax Centrium)
AW
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Training Camp - After Day Three
News, Notes, Quotes, and Opinions from Day Three
Landon Ferraro and rookie Matt Dumba each scored a goal and added an assist, as Team Burgundy took home Tuesday night's scrimmage 6-2 over Team White. Also scoring for Bergundy was Colton Meaver ('93), Willie Coetzee ('90), Brett Ferguson ('90) and Brett Miller ('91). Martensville, SK native Jesse Mireau ('91) scored both goals for White.
-Both goals from Mireau were absolute things of beauty, and came within 30 seconds of each other. Up until that point, I thought Mireau may have been in tough this week, and then he had maybe the best two shifts of his young career. Never count anyone out too early I suppose.
-Dumba, who has been dominant all week in rookie camp, didn't take a backwards step in his first foray with the big boys. He opened the scoring with a beauty. What a keeper this kid is. I'll have more on Dumba in an article published Wednesday in the Red Deer Express.
-A number of players from rookie camp were called up to the big boys last night, and will also play in Wednesday's Black and White game. They are:
G Brenden Mandrusiak - Red Deer, AB ('93)
G Zach Rakochy - Canora, MB ('93)
D Channing Bresciani - Winnipeg, MB ('93)
D Kirsten Odendaal - Red Deer, AB ('93)
D Lucas Grayson - Port Hardy, BC ('94)
D Matt Dumba - Calgary, AB ('94)
F Colten Mayor - St. Albert, AB ('93)
F Mason Burr - Airdrie, AB ('94)
F Tyson McCallum - Dawson Creek, BC ('93)
F Tyson Ness - Grande Prarie, AB ('93)
F Chase McMurphy - Chestermere, AB ('94)
F Chad Robinson - Minnedosa, MB ('93)
F Joel Hamilton - Cochrane, AB ('94)
F Marc McCoy - Edmonton, AB ('94)
F Colton Meaver - Edmonton, AB ('93)
-All the '94 born players, (Dumba, Grayson, Burr, McMurphy, Hamilton and McCoy) will get their first legitimate shot to crack the team NEXT year, but the others, all still holding out hope that another good performance will extend their WHL lives, at least into the preseason.
Head Coach Jesse Wallin had a few thoughts heading into Wednesday:
"(The competition level) has been pretty good I think. There's been a good pace, especially to the early part of the game tonight. It's been a bit sloopy at times, but that seems to be the norm at training camp. I think the effort level has been good. These guys have been shorthanded with a lot of guys going down in camp."
"Who are you gonna carry on into the preseason? It's a real game in the sense that there's people in the building. Its' a big event, especially for the young guys being here for their first and second time. It's a big game for a lot of guys."
-Ryan Nugent Hopkins and Jindra Barak were both given the all-clear to resume practicing. Both skated briefly yesterday. neither will play Wednesday night, but both will be good to go Saturday, when the Rebels preseason kicks off against the Moose Jaw Warriors in Edmonton.
-In the battle for the final 20 year old spot (Deagle vs Esposito) I thought Espo had the better game last night, but things have been fairly tight throughout camp. Don't be surprised to see the gloves drop again Wednesday night.
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Rooke camp from Tuesday
-2009 2nd round pick Mason Burr scored twice for team white in a 5-4 victory this morning in the final scrimmage of rookie camp. White also got goals from Ryan Balfour ('94) Tommy Hrazdira ('94) and Marc McCoy ('94). Burgundy was led by St. Albert's Colten Mayor ('93), as he scored twice, with singles coming from Dman Channing Bresciani ('93) and David Heath ('94)
-The coaching staff will soon be cutting down the rosters in advance of tonight's main scrimmage, a preview to tomorrow's Black and White game.
-16 year-old Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who has been battling flu-like symptoms all week, is on the ice with the vets for practice. He has been given the all clear by the doctors, but whether or not he plays tonight remains to be seen. I would think tomorrow is a more likely scenario.
Landon Ferraro and rookie Matt Dumba each scored a goal and added an assist, as Team Burgundy took home Tuesday night's scrimmage 6-2 over Team White. Also scoring for Bergundy was Colton Meaver ('93), Willie Coetzee ('90), Brett Ferguson ('90) and Brett Miller ('91). Martensville, SK native Jesse Mireau ('91) scored both goals for White.
-Both goals from Mireau were absolute things of beauty, and came within 30 seconds of each other. Up until that point, I thought Mireau may have been in tough this week, and then he had maybe the best two shifts of his young career. Never count anyone out too early I suppose.
-Dumba, who has been dominant all week in rookie camp, didn't take a backwards step in his first foray with the big boys. He opened the scoring with a beauty. What a keeper this kid is. I'll have more on Dumba in an article published Wednesday in the Red Deer Express.
-A number of players from rookie camp were called up to the big boys last night, and will also play in Wednesday's Black and White game. They are:
G Brenden Mandrusiak - Red Deer, AB ('93)
G Zach Rakochy - Canora, MB ('93)
D Channing Bresciani - Winnipeg, MB ('93)
D Kirsten Odendaal - Red Deer, AB ('93)
D Lucas Grayson - Port Hardy, BC ('94)
D Matt Dumba - Calgary, AB ('94)
F Colten Mayor - St. Albert, AB ('93)
F Mason Burr - Airdrie, AB ('94)
F Tyson McCallum - Dawson Creek, BC ('93)
F Tyson Ness - Grande Prarie, AB ('93)
F Chase McMurphy - Chestermere, AB ('94)
F Chad Robinson - Minnedosa, MB ('93)
F Joel Hamilton - Cochrane, AB ('94)
F Marc McCoy - Edmonton, AB ('94)
F Colton Meaver - Edmonton, AB ('93)
-All the '94 born players, (Dumba, Grayson, Burr, McMurphy, Hamilton and McCoy) will get their first legitimate shot to crack the team NEXT year, but the others, all still holding out hope that another good performance will extend their WHL lives, at least into the preseason.
Head Coach Jesse Wallin had a few thoughts heading into Wednesday:
"(The competition level) has been pretty good I think. There's been a good pace, especially to the early part of the game tonight. It's been a bit sloopy at times, but that seems to be the norm at training camp. I think the effort level has been good. These guys have been shorthanded with a lot of guys going down in camp."
"Who are you gonna carry on into the preseason? It's a real game in the sense that there's people in the building. Its' a big event, especially for the young guys being here for their first and second time. It's a big game for a lot of guys."
-Ryan Nugent Hopkins and Jindra Barak were both given the all-clear to resume practicing. Both skated briefly yesterday. neither will play Wednesday night, but both will be good to go Saturday, when the Rebels preseason kicks off against the Moose Jaw Warriors in Edmonton.
-In the battle for the final 20 year old spot (Deagle vs Esposito) I thought Espo had the better game last night, but things have been fairly tight throughout camp. Don't be surprised to see the gloves drop again Wednesday night.
---------------
Rooke camp from Tuesday
-2009 2nd round pick Mason Burr scored twice for team white in a 5-4 victory this morning in the final scrimmage of rookie camp. White also got goals from Ryan Balfour ('94) Tommy Hrazdira ('94) and Marc McCoy ('94). Burgundy was led by St. Albert's Colten Mayor ('93), as he scored twice, with singles coming from Dman Channing Bresciani ('93) and David Heath ('94)
-The coaching staff will soon be cutting down the rosters in advance of tonight's main scrimmage, a preview to tomorrow's Black and White game.
-16 year-old Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who has been battling flu-like symptoms all week, is on the ice with the vets for practice. He has been given the all clear by the doctors, but whether or not he plays tonight remains to be seen. I would think tomorrow is a more likely scenario.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Training Camp - Day 2
News, Notes, Quotes, and Opinions From Day Two
-Notes and storylines from the evening scrimmage Monday.
-20 year-old Nathan Green scored twice for team Grey in a 6-3 win over team Black Monday night. Grey also received goals from Colin Archer, Adam Kambeitz, Nick Bell, and Willie Coetzee. Scoring for Black were Josh Cowen, Connor Redmond, and Landon Ferraro.
-Late in the game, we saw our first scrap of camp, and surprise, surprise, it was the two 20 year-olds, Cody Esposito and Jordie Deagle, battling for the same roster spot. The edge in the fight goes to Espo, although it wasn't long enough to be too convincing.
-19 year-old F Brett Ferguson showed noticably well Monday for team black, and continues to be one of the interesting players this camp for me.
Where does Ferguson fit in exactly? he is certainly a candidate at this point to be the number six man in the Rebels top two lines. At this point, some other possibilities include John Persson (who looked even better on day two), and Jordie Deagle.
"Things are going good so far. It's a tough camp with not a lot of guys out there. Pretty tiring."
"I feel good about how far I came this summer, and I'm ready to put it to use. I want to be in the top six. I know I can play there. It's just a matter of showing them that I can. You have to do the little things right too...if you're a liability on defense you're not getting anything done on offense."
I would think there is a chance that Fergy could land a third-line winger, second-line powerplay role, but you can be sure the team doesn't want a 19 year-old playing on the fourth-line. Last season, his first in the WHL, Brett put up five goals and 24 assists in 71 games.
----
-As mentioned above, the two 20 year old's, Jordie Deagle and Cody Esposito dropped the mitts Monday night. Two good guys who can play physical, but won't provide a ton of offense. These are their thoughts on the obvious competition in camp.
Deagle (pictured, left): "I think we both know it too. There's not much you can do, you have to work hard, play your own game, and let the chips fall where they may. It's up to the coaches to decide, but all I can do is play as hard as I can. I'm feeling really good. I trained really hard this summer, and with the way the central divison is, we have a real shot. It's a big year for the team."
Esposito: "We both are aware of the spots to be had, so it's pretty competitive out there, just doing our jobs. I just need to play my game. I understand that I'm a tough guy and a physical role is my game, so I have to stay my role and not try to do something that I don't usually do."
After being picked up from the AJHL's Brooks Bandits midway through last season, Deagle score seven goals and 12 points in 38 games with Red Deer. Esposito notched the same seven goals, and added 12 assists for 19 points in 68 games.
-Czech D Jindra Barak sat out his second straight day with flu-like symptoms, while D Alex Petrovic didn't skate after suffering a groin tweak Sunday. No word yet on the status of 16 year old Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who was to have blood tests done Monday morning.
-The coaching staff will be cutting down to a roster of about 40 after tomorrow's rookie scrimmage (8:30 - Centrium)
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I didn't write much about the rookies yesterday, so here is some thoughts from the Monday morning session.
-15 year old Tyler Bateman, from Kelowna, B.C. scored twice, as team White skated to a 3-2 win over Team Burgundy. Edmonton 15 year-old Marc McCoy also scored for White, while Red Deer's Tanner Dunkle ('93) and St. Albert's Colten Mayor ('93) replied for Burgundy. mayor's goal was the nicest of the day, set up after a good rush by D Channing Bresciani. ('93)
-Matt Dumba. Obviously, being the fourth overall bantam pick, this 15 year-old comes with hype, and is expected to stand out. He does. I haven't seen a young blueliner at a Rebels camp make this quick of an impression on me He's ferocious. Through a day and a half, Dumba has dominated the rookie ranks, and he can't move up to main camp soon enough.
Head coach Jesse Wallin: "He's such a physical presence. He's dominant physically. Hes' very strong on his feet and plays with that edge. He loves the physical aspect of the game...it seems with or without the puck he dips that shoulder and lays people out. He's a strong, phyisically talented kid."
Director of scouting Randy Petersen: "He's always on the attack and you have to have your head up because he'll lower the boom. He's bound, determined, and so driven. He'll be a big part of the plans down the road."
------------
-I have quickly become a very big fan of 16 year-old Red Deer product Kirsten Odendaal. The captain of the 15 year old IROC Chiefs last year, Odendaal has played a nearly perfect, composed two days of camp so far on the blueline. The undrafted camp invite has quickly been turning some heads, and while it's still early, he is making a strong case to stick around for the pre-season.
"When I didn't get drafted it didn't really phase me that much. My parents kept telling me it was a young draft year, and since then I've picked up some weight and I'm working hard."
"I just want to do my best and go as far as I can get. I'd love to play in the black and white game, but you never know. It would be a privilege."
On the ice, Kirsten isn't a flashy guy, but he communicates, he makes the smart play every time, and can skate as well as anyone. He can move laterally and backwards extremely well, and has a very low panic threshhold.
Wallin likes what he sees so far as well. "That's his game. You go through the game and you don't notice him a lot, and that's a good thing for a defenseman. He keeps the game very simple, he's a very good skater. He always seems to make the right play and stay out of trouble. He's got a real solid all around game."
Petersen - "We really, really like him in terms of his decision making. He's not a real offensive guy but he makes great decisions, and you can't have too many guys like that. We're pretty excited about him right now in terms of him being a part of this club at some point."
----------------
Some other standouts for me:
Joel Hamilton ('94) - Can power up the wing, strong on the puck.
Paul Lamoureux ('93) - Plays extremely physical, tough not to like his heart.
Mason Burr ('94) - Second round pick was a little quiet, but showed some flashes of tremendous puck skill.
Channing Bresciani ('93) - This Winnipeg product plays a very smart game. Great skater, offensive instincts. He may be in the mix to play this year
Lucas Grayson ('94) - Port Hardy, B.C. native was much better on day two. Used his big frame to punish a couple of forwards.
Colton Mayor ('93) - Was one of the more dangerous forwards on the day. good size and good wheels. Look for him to get a shot with the big boys.
Chad Robinson ('93) Even better wheels than Mayor, these two showed good chemistry together. Both B & W game material.
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-Notes and storylines from the evening scrimmage Monday.
-20 year-old Nathan Green scored twice for team Grey in a 6-3 win over team Black Monday night. Grey also received goals from Colin Archer, Adam Kambeitz, Nick Bell, and Willie Coetzee. Scoring for Black were Josh Cowen, Connor Redmond, and Landon Ferraro.
-Late in the game, we saw our first scrap of camp, and surprise, surprise, it was the two 20 year-olds, Cody Esposito and Jordie Deagle, battling for the same roster spot. The edge in the fight goes to Espo, although it wasn't long enough to be too convincing.
-19 year-old F Brett Ferguson showed noticably well Monday for team black, and continues to be one of the interesting players this camp for me.
Where does Ferguson fit in exactly? he is certainly a candidate at this point to be the number six man in the Rebels top two lines. At this point, some other possibilities include John Persson (who looked even better on day two), and Jordie Deagle."Things are going good so far. It's a tough camp with not a lot of guys out there. Pretty tiring."
"I feel good about how far I came this summer, and I'm ready to put it to use. I want to be in the top six. I know I can play there. It's just a matter of showing them that I can. You have to do the little things right too...if you're a liability on defense you're not getting anything done on offense."
I would think there is a chance that Fergy could land a third-line winger, second-line powerplay role, but you can be sure the team doesn't want a 19 year-old playing on the fourth-line. Last season, his first in the WHL, Brett put up five goals and 24 assists in 71 games.
----
-As mentioned above, the two 20 year old's, Jordie Deagle and Cody Esposito dropped the mitts Monday night. Two good guys who can play physical, but won't provide a ton of offense. These are their thoughts on the obvious competition in camp.
Deagle (pictured, left): "I think we both know it too. There's not much you can do, you have to work hard, play your own game, and let the chips fall where they may. It's up to the coaches to decide, but all I can do is play as hard as I can. I'm feeling really good. I trained really hard this summer, and with the way the central divison is, we have a real shot. It's a big year for the team."Esposito: "We both are aware of the spots to be had, so it's pretty competitive out there, just doing our jobs. I just need to play my game. I understand that I'm a tough guy and a physical role is my game, so I have to stay my role and not try to do something that I don't usually do."
After being picked up from the AJHL's Brooks Bandits midway through last season, Deagle score seven goals and 12 points in 38 games with Red Deer. Esposito notched the same seven goals, and added 12 assists for 19 points in 68 games.
-Czech D Jindra Barak sat out his second straight day with flu-like symptoms, while D Alex Petrovic didn't skate after suffering a groin tweak Sunday. No word yet on the status of 16 year old Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who was to have blood tests done Monday morning.
-The coaching staff will be cutting down to a roster of about 40 after tomorrow's rookie scrimmage (8:30 - Centrium)
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I didn't write much about the rookies yesterday, so here is some thoughts from the Monday morning session.
-15 year old Tyler Bateman, from Kelowna, B.C. scored twice, as team White skated to a 3-2 win over Team Burgundy. Edmonton 15 year-old Marc McCoy also scored for White, while Red Deer's Tanner Dunkle ('93) and St. Albert's Colten Mayor ('93) replied for Burgundy. mayor's goal was the nicest of the day, set up after a good rush by D Channing Bresciani. ('93)
-Matt Dumba. Obviously, being the fourth overall bantam pick, this 15 year-old comes with hype, and is expected to stand out. He does. I haven't seen a young blueliner at a Rebels camp make this quick of an impression on me He's ferocious. Through a day and a half, Dumba has dominated the rookie ranks, and he can't move up to main camp soon enough.
Head coach Jesse Wallin: "He's such a physical presence. He's dominant physically. Hes' very strong on his feet and plays with that edge. He loves the physical aspect of the game...it seems with or without the puck he dips that shoulder and lays people out. He's a strong, phyisically talented kid."Director of scouting Randy Petersen: "He's always on the attack and you have to have your head up because he'll lower the boom. He's bound, determined, and so driven. He'll be a big part of the plans down the road."
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-I have quickly become a very big fan of 16 year-old Red Deer product Kirsten Odendaal. The captain of the 15 year old IROC Chiefs last year, Odendaal has played a nearly perfect, composed two days of camp so far on the blueline. The undrafted camp invite has quickly been turning some heads, and while it's still early, he is making a strong case to stick around for the pre-season.
"When I didn't get drafted it didn't really phase me that much. My parents kept telling me it was a young draft year, and since then I've picked up some weight and I'm working hard."
"I just want to do my best and go as far as I can get. I'd love to play in the black and white game, but you never know. It would be a privilege."
On the ice, Kirsten isn't a flashy guy, but he communicates, he makes the smart play every time, and can skate as well as anyone. He can move laterally and backwards extremely well, and has a very low panic threshhold.
Wallin likes what he sees so far as well. "That's his game. You go through the game and you don't notice him a lot, and that's a good thing for a defenseman. He keeps the game very simple, he's a very good skater. He always seems to make the right play and stay out of trouble. He's got a real solid all around game."
Petersen - "We really, really like him in terms of his decision making. He's not a real offensive guy but he makes great decisions, and you can't have too many guys like that. We're pretty excited about him right now in terms of him being a part of this club at some point."
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Some other standouts for me:
Joel Hamilton ('94) - Can power up the wing, strong on the puck.
Paul Lamoureux ('93) - Plays extremely physical, tough not to like his heart.
Mason Burr ('94) - Second round pick was a little quiet, but showed some flashes of tremendous puck skill.
Channing Bresciani ('93) - This Winnipeg product plays a very smart game. Great skater, offensive instincts. He may be in the mix to play this year
Lucas Grayson ('94) - Port Hardy, B.C. native was much better on day two. Used his big frame to punish a couple of forwards.
Colton Mayor ('93) - Was one of the more dangerous forwards on the day. good size and good wheels. Look for him to get a shot with the big boys.
Chad Robinson ('93) Even better wheels than Mayor, these two showed good chemistry together. Both B & W game material.
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Sunday, August 23, 2009
Training Camp - Day One
News, Notes, Quotes, and Opinions from Day One
-Landon Ferraro scored the shootout winner in Team Black's 2-1 victory Sunday night in the first scrimmage of 2009 Training Camp.
-St. Albert native, 17 year-old Turner Elson scored on the opening shift for team grey with assists going to Nathan Green and Colin Archer. Team Black responded with a nice backhand goal from Swedish import John Persson to tie it up. Ferraro drew the assist.
Some interesting moments from the first game:
- Defenseman Justin Weller flattened the big swede, Persson, with an open ice hit. More on Persson below.
-Landon Ferraro scored the shootout winner in Team Black's 2-1 victory Sunday night in the first scrimmage of 2009 Training Camp.
-St. Albert native, 17 year-old Turner Elson scored on the opening shift for team grey with assists going to Nathan Green and Colin Archer. Team Black responded with a nice backhand goal from Swedish import John Persson to tie it up. Ferraro drew the assist.
Some interesting moments from the first game:
- Defenseman Justin Weller flattened the big swede, Persson, with an open ice hit. More on Persson below.
-D Nick Bell, out of Innisfail, laid into F Connor Redmond with an elbow early on. Redmond lost a tooth, left the game, and came back with a full cage. The two exchanged words a little later on as well.
- The two 20 year-olds battling for the same spot, Cody Esposito and Jordie Deagle, were ironically involved in a violent collision early. I thought Deagle had the upper-hand on day one, but there is plenty of hockey left to be played. Nathan Green and Cullen Morin are the two locks for 20 year-old spots already.
-All in all, day one of camp was just that. A bit sloppy and a bit choppy. Not a big surprise, as day two is almost always head and shoulders better. Butterflies and nerves play a much smaller role as the week goes on.
- The two 20 year-olds battling for the same spot, Cody Esposito and Jordie Deagle, were ironically involved in a violent collision early. I thought Deagle had the upper-hand on day one, but there is plenty of hockey left to be played. Nathan Green and Cullen Morin are the two locks for 20 year-old spots already.
-All in all, day one of camp was just that. A bit sloppy and a bit choppy. Not a big surprise, as day two is almost always head and shoulders better. Butterflies and nerves play a much smaller role as the week goes on.
-In terms of players standing out, the veterans were definitely the most noticable. D Colin Archer was steady, as was Weller. Ferraro looked noticably stronger, and didn't lose a battle along the boards or in the corners. Adam Kambeitz continues to be a breakout candidate, and showed plenty of jump.
-Some stories from Day One:
- Joel Kot's time as a Red Deer Rebel has come to a close. The 19 year-old defenseman has not reported to camp, and will attempt to go the Junior "A" route instead.
Rebels Head Coach Jesse Wallin: "Kotter has decided that he doesn't want to play at the WHL level anymore. He wants to play Junior A hockey, wherever that may be. He doesn't have the goal of playing pro hockey anymore and he doesnt want to commit to the level he needs to in order to play at this level, so we'll move on without him."
Kot began his time w
ith the Rebels as a 16 year-old, when he was called up during the 2006-07 playoffs and played all seven games against the eventual WHL Champion Medicine Hat Tigers. Paired with Jordan Henry, Kot played exceptionally well, and looked to have a big future ahead of him.
In 2007-08, after putting up 10 points in the first 20 games of the season, Kot suffered a major back injury, and missed an entire calender year. After finally making a return to the ice last season, Kot was a shell of his former self, scoring 10 points in 64 games. he still had a very good chance of making the team this fall, but has elected to end his WHL tenure.
More from Wallin: "It was a big injury, and I think it affected him as much mentally as it did physically. Even coming back, it was on his mind for a long time thereafter when it came to getting involved with physical battles. It's disappointing, but we're going to have to move forward."
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-Injuires and illness are already taking their toll, as both Ryan Nugent-
Hopkins and Daulton Siwak were nowhere to be found. Siwak, the 16 year-old Olds, AB. product, has Mono, and will miss the duration of training camp. Nugent Hopkins is getting bloodwork done after his bout with an illness, and his status for the next three days is questionable. Import defenseman Jindra Barak also didn't skate on day one after coming down with flu-like symptoms, and a number of players are said to be feeling a a little bit "under the weather".
16 year-old defenseman Matt Pufahl had his shoulder pop out, and his status for Monday is uncertain. 17 year-old defenseman Alex Petrovic left the evening scrimmage with a tweaked groin, but at this point, it's said to be a precautionary measure.
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-Swedish Import F John Persson impressed on day one, probably to the great relief of the coaching staff. The CHL Import draft has become more and more of an inexact science, and while you could be getting a gem, you also might get a lemon. While we'll have to wait to get a first look at D Jindra Barak, Persson skated in both the morning practice and evening scrimmage. A solid 6'3'', the 17 year old has a bit of a choppy stride, but has great hands and a hard shot. He isn't afraid to battle, and as advertised, doesn't shy away from the tough areas.
To look at Persson, you'd think he is older than he appears. One would think at 17, he's not finished growing or filling out, so if all goes according to plan, he could be a monsterous power forward eventually. His english wasn't too bad either, so we did a brief interview on his early thoughts on his new situation.
"I think it's good. The guys are good, and have taken care of me. Good so far"
"I drive to the net and score goals. That was my role in Sweden. Maybe like a (Johan) Franzen type. Go to the net and score goals."
Persson says he didn't know a thing about Red Deer when he was drafted, and doesn't know a whole lot about the WHL either, just that it's a tough league that has produced many NHL'ers over the years.
Wallin: "He's a big guy, he skates pretty well, and he's got good hands for a big man. So far, so good. He looked good this afternoon, and got adjusted to the game in North America. He mentioned the size of the ice a couple of times, thats a little different for him. He's looked good so far."
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I was very interested to see how D Nick Bell would fare on his first day, and all in all, he did pretty well. It was a nervous start for the puck-moving d-man, who played in Okotoks last season (More on Bell in an earlier post) but he seemed to get better every shift, and played exceptionally well in the second half of the evening game. With another candidate off the radar in Kot, Bell's chances to make this team are getting better and better.
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As camp has hit, It's only natural to already start to predict and try to put together a potential opening day lineup. One of the names though that maybe we forget about is Brett Miller. A former first-round bantam draft pick of Regina, Miller hasn't been able to find his place in Red Deer the last two years, and is running out of chances. Heading into his 18 year-old season, the North Battleford , Sask product came into camp noticably bigger, and is as big a player as there is in camp this year. The message from the coachign staff is an obvious one.
Wallin: "I think hes certainly taken strides. He worked very hard this summer and really wants to play here. He got much stronger and spent two or three weeks down in North Daktoa at a skating camp. The message that's been given to him is that he's a big man, probably the biggest in camp, and he HAS to play physical. He has to use his size to his advantage, and that's something that doesn't come naturally to him. He has to work at that and that's going to be his key to getting on the roster here. Today was his first day and he has a ways to go, but we'll see how it goes over the exhibiton season."
Rebels Director of Scouting Randy Petersen: "It is a bit of a make or break time for him. He's gonna have to be physical for us or hes not going to have a chance to play here. we have some amller guys, some skilled guys, so he'll have to be willing to play that other role."
As for Miller's thoughts.....it appears as though he realizes the importance of this camp for him.
"I know it's a big one. After being cut twice in a row, I started hitting the weights hard back in January. last year at camp I weighed in at about 194, and yesterday was 212. They told me that was good and Wally said there was room for a big guy like me on the squad if I could earn it, so I'm trying to earn that spot."
Miller has played 35 games for the Rebels over the past two seasons, registering just two points. After being sent down to North Battleford of the SJHL after just nine games last year, Miller played in 47 games for the Stars, picking up six goals and 19 points.
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Among some of the local camp invites this year, up with the main camp are Red Deer's Mitch Kaufmann, an 18 year-old defenseman, and Red Deer native Luke Madill, a 17 year old blueliner.
Skating with the rookies are 16 year old Kirsten Odendaal. Described by Petersen as a smooth, Bruce Thoma type. "Steady as she goes, can skate, and thinks the game very well."
Red Deer goaltender Brenden Mandrusiak (16) and F Tanner Dunkle (16) are also part of Rookie Camp.
Also of note, former NHL'er and current head coach of the AHL's Abbotsford Heat, Jim Playfair, was there to watch his son, 15 year-old Jackson, take part in rookie camp.
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I'll have more info coming up tomorrow. I can be reached anytime via email. Sports@big105.fm
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-Some stories from Day One:
- Joel Kot's time as a Red Deer Rebel has come to a close. The 19 year-old defenseman has not reported to camp, and will attempt to go the Junior "A" route instead.
Rebels Head Coach Jesse Wallin: "Kotter has decided that he doesn't want to play at the WHL level anymore. He wants to play Junior A hockey, wherever that may be. He doesn't have the goal of playing pro hockey anymore and he doesnt want to commit to the level he needs to in order to play at this level, so we'll move on without him."
Kot began his time w
ith the Rebels as a 16 year-old, when he was called up during the 2006-07 playoffs and played all seven games against the eventual WHL Champion Medicine Hat Tigers. Paired with Jordan Henry, Kot played exceptionally well, and looked to have a big future ahead of him.In 2007-08, after putting up 10 points in the first 20 games of the season, Kot suffered a major back injury, and missed an entire calender year. After finally making a return to the ice last season, Kot was a shell of his former self, scoring 10 points in 64 games. he still had a very good chance of making the team this fall, but has elected to end his WHL tenure.
More from Wallin: "It was a big injury, and I think it affected him as much mentally as it did physically. Even coming back, it was on his mind for a long time thereafter when it came to getting involved with physical battles. It's disappointing, but we're going to have to move forward."
-----------------------
-Injuires and illness are already taking their toll, as both Ryan Nugent-
Hopkins and Daulton Siwak were nowhere to be found. Siwak, the 16 year-old Olds, AB. product, has Mono, and will miss the duration of training camp. Nugent Hopkins is getting bloodwork done after his bout with an illness, and his status for the next three days is questionable. Import defenseman Jindra Barak also didn't skate on day one after coming down with flu-like symptoms, and a number of players are said to be feeling a a little bit "under the weather".16 year-old defenseman Matt Pufahl had his shoulder pop out, and his status for Monday is uncertain. 17 year-old defenseman Alex Petrovic left the evening scrimmage with a tweaked groin, but at this point, it's said to be a precautionary measure.
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-Swedish Import F John Persson impressed on day one, probably to the great relief of the coaching staff. The CHL Import draft has become more and more of an inexact science, and while you could be getting a gem, you also might get a lemon. While we'll have to wait to get a first look at D Jindra Barak, Persson skated in both the morning practice and evening scrimmage. A solid 6'3'', the 17 year old has a bit of a choppy stride, but has great hands and a hard shot. He isn't afraid to battle, and as advertised, doesn't shy away from the tough areas.To look at Persson, you'd think he is older than he appears. One would think at 17, he's not finished growing or filling out, so if all goes according to plan, he could be a monsterous power forward eventually. His english wasn't too bad either, so we did a brief interview on his early thoughts on his new situation.
"I think it's good. The guys are good, and have taken care of me. Good so far"
"I drive to the net and score goals. That was my role in Sweden. Maybe like a (Johan) Franzen type. Go to the net and score goals."
Persson says he didn't know a thing about Red Deer when he was drafted, and doesn't know a whole lot about the WHL either, just that it's a tough league that has produced many NHL'ers over the years.
Wallin: "He's a big guy, he skates pretty well, and he's got good hands for a big man. So far, so good. He looked good this afternoon, and got adjusted to the game in North America. He mentioned the size of the ice a couple of times, thats a little different for him. He's looked good so far."
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I was very interested to see how D Nick Bell would fare on his first day, and all in all, he did pretty well. It was a nervous start for the puck-moving d-man, who played in Okotoks last season (More on Bell in an earlier post) but he seemed to get better every shift, and played exceptionally well in the second half of the evening game. With another candidate off the radar in Kot, Bell's chances to make this team are getting better and better.
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As camp has hit, It's only natural to already start to predict and try to put together a potential opening day lineup. One of the names though that maybe we forget about is Brett Miller. A former first-round bantam draft pick of Regina, Miller hasn't been able to find his place in Red Deer the last two years, and is running out of chances. Heading into his 18 year-old season, the North Battleford , Sask product came into camp noticably bigger, and is as big a player as there is in camp this year. The message from the coachign staff is an obvious one.
Wallin: "I think hes certainly taken strides. He worked very hard this summer and really wants to play here. He got much stronger and spent two or three weeks down in North Daktoa at a skating camp. The message that's been given to him is that he's a big man, probably the biggest in camp, and he HAS to play physical. He has to use his size to his advantage, and that's something that doesn't come naturally to him. He has to work at that and that's going to be his key to getting on the roster here. Today was his first day and he has a ways to go, but we'll see how it goes over the exhibiton season."
Rebels Director of Scouting Randy Petersen: "It is a bit of a make or break time for him. He's gonna have to be physical for us or hes not going to have a chance to play here. we have some amller guys, some skilled guys, so he'll have to be willing to play that other role."
As for Miller's thoughts.....it appears as though he realizes the importance of this camp for him.
"I know it's a big one. After being cut twice in a row, I started hitting the weights hard back in January. last year at camp I weighed in at about 194, and yesterday was 212. They told me that was good and Wally said there was room for a big guy like me on the squad if I could earn it, so I'm trying to earn that spot."
Miller has played 35 games for the Rebels over the past two seasons, registering just two points. After being sent down to North Battleford of the SJHL after just nine games last year, Miller played in 47 games for the Stars, picking up six goals and 19 points.
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Among some of the local camp invites this year, up with the main camp are Red Deer's Mitch Kaufmann, an 18 year-old defenseman, and Red Deer native Luke Madill, a 17 year old blueliner.
Skating with the rookies are 16 year old Kirsten Odendaal. Described by Petersen as a smooth, Bruce Thoma type. "Steady as she goes, can skate, and thinks the game very well."
Red Deer goaltender Brenden Mandrusiak (16) and F Tanner Dunkle (16) are also part of Rookie Camp.
Also of note, former NHL'er and current head coach of the AHL's Abbotsford Heat, Jim Playfair, was there to watch his son, 15 year-old Jackson, take part in rookie camp.
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I'll have more info coming up tomorrow. I can be reached anytime via email. Sports@big105.fm
AW
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Additional Camp Notes
Other Camp Notes:
Competing for a spot on the blueline next week will be Innisfail native Nick Bell, a training camp invite. Bell, a 19 year-old who was drafted as a Bantam in 2005 by the Prince George Cougars, played a year of midget hockey as a 17 year old with the AAA Optimist Rebels under Trevor Keeper, and played Junior A last season with Okotoks, making the All-Rookie team while scoring eight goals and adding 29 assists for 37 points.
Keeper, who, by the way, WILL NOT be back coaching the AAA's this season, (Doug Quinn will take over) had this to say about Bell.
"He was an offensive defenseman with us. He sees the puck well, and anticipates well. He scares you as a coach a bit because he gambles, but 90 percent of the tme it pays off for him because of his ability to read the game."
"His skill set, physically, there a lot of things kind of average for him, but he has all around skills to make him succesful. His biggest attribute is his game sense. From what I've seen I think he has the capability to play on a WHL powerplay. He is very posied with the puck. I thought two years ago,he could play in the Western League because of his offensive abilties."
Rebs head coach Jesse Wallin had this to say: "He's got some Junior A experience and was a prospect in the league up until a couple of years ago. we think he has the ability to play at this level, so we'll see how his camp goes, how he fits in, and if this is where he wants to be."
So there you have it. Nick Bell could have an outside chance to make this team. With Tommi Kivisto gone, the only four locks are Morin, Petrovic, Archer, and Weller. Brad Deagle, Joel Kot, Matt Pufahl and Jindra Barack are the likely candidates battling for the other spots. Of that group, there really doesn't seem to be a Powerplay speciality other than Morin either.
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As for the legend of Curtis McKenzie.....the final nail in the coffin will be when he doesn't show up at Rebels camp Sunday, and it doesn't look like he will. After a monster season
with the Penticton Vees in the BCHL, McKenzie was drafted by the Dallas Stars, and is committed to the Miami of Ohio Redhawks in the NCAA.
Wallin: "I don't know if you'd ever say 100 percent, but it certainly doesn't sound like he's going to be coming. He hasn't informed me that he'll be here so we're not expecting him at this point. From our standpoint, we'd love to have him, but if he chooses to go the other way, that opportunity won't always be here for him. We'll continue on without him."
Mckenzie would be a coup, but it looks as though this story will have an unfortunate conclusion as far as the Rebels go. He would have provided the answer to the question of the final top six forward.
AW
Competing for a spot on the blueline next week will be Innisfail native Nick Bell, a training camp invite. Bell, a 19 year-old who was drafted as a Bantam in 2005 by the Prince George Cougars, played a year of midget hockey as a 17 year old with the AAA Optimist Rebels under Trevor Keeper, and played Junior A last season with Okotoks, making the All-Rookie team while scoring eight goals and adding 29 assists for 37 points.
Keeper, who, by the way, WILL NOT be back coaching the AAA's this season, (Doug Quinn will take over) had this to say about Bell."He was an offensive defenseman with us. He sees the puck well, and anticipates well. He scares you as a coach a bit because he gambles, but 90 percent of the tme it pays off for him because of his ability to read the game."
"His skill set, physically, there a lot of things kind of average for him, but he has all around skills to make him succesful. His biggest attribute is his game sense. From what I've seen I think he has the capability to play on a WHL powerplay. He is very posied with the puck. I thought two years ago,he could play in the Western League because of his offensive abilties."
Rebs head coach Jesse Wallin had this to say: "He's got some Junior A experience and was a prospect in the league up until a couple of years ago. we think he has the ability to play at this level, so we'll see how his camp goes, how he fits in, and if this is where he wants to be."
So there you have it. Nick Bell could have an outside chance to make this team. With Tommi Kivisto gone, the only four locks are Morin, Petrovic, Archer, and Weller. Brad Deagle, Joel Kot, Matt Pufahl and Jindra Barack are the likely candidates battling for the other spots. Of that group, there really doesn't seem to be a Powerplay speciality other than Morin either.
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As for the legend of Curtis McKenzie.....the final nail in the coffin will be when he doesn't show up at Rebels camp Sunday, and it doesn't look like he will. After a monster season
with the Penticton Vees in the BCHL, McKenzie was drafted by the Dallas Stars, and is committed to the Miami of Ohio Redhawks in the NCAA.Wallin: "I don't know if you'd ever say 100 percent, but it certainly doesn't sound like he's going to be coming. He hasn't informed me that he'll be here so we're not expecting him at this point. From our standpoint, we'd love to have him, but if he chooses to go the other way, that opportunity won't always be here for him. We'll continue on without him."
Mckenzie would be a coup, but it looks as though this story will have an unfortunate conclusion as far as the Rebels go. He would have provided the answer to the question of the final top six forward.
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One Year Annniversay
Also of note. It's the one-year anniversary of this blog. 70,000 plus hits in the first 12 months. I'm not sure if that's good or not. I hope you've enjoyed this first foray into the blogosphere. I will continue to provide all the info I can over the upcoming season.
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JUST A FEW DAYS AWAY
GEARING UP FOR TRAINING CAMP
(Photo courtesy Chad Hipolito - RD Express)
It's been the calm before the storm here on the blog.(Photo courtesy Chad Hipolito - RD Express)
Rebels training camp gets underway Sunday morning, and I'll have all the info you want right here over the duration.
Just in time for camp, the Rebels have unveiled their new-look website: http://www.reddeerrebels.com/
I like the banner at the top, looking pretty sharp. If it were up to me, the Rebs would market a bit less when it comes to personalities such as Dion, but.....he is a star, so what can you do? Give me the "good guys" like Brandon Sutter, Colby Armstrong, Derek Meech, any day of the week.
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I'll have plenty of Rebels info as well coming up on MORON Sports (Sunday 8-9 a.m.) over the next few weeks as well. Head coach Jesse Wallin joins me this week, while Cam Moon will stop in as well to go through a few of the storylines...
Here are just a few of the players I will be watching very closely:
1) Daulton Siwak ('93)
- The Olds, Alberta native was Red Deer's 2nd round pick, 24th overall in the 2008 Bantam draft. After a great season playing for the AAA Midget Optimist Rebels, (7 goals and 35 points in 33 games, along with 83 PIM) Siwak got into 10 games with the big club at the end of the season, seeing limited ice time. He was held off the scoresheet, and will head into his 16 year-old season looking for his first WHL point. Barring disaster, Siwak is expected to be a full-time rookie this year.
2) Jordan Neduzak ('92)
-The 17 year-old had a decent season with the MJHL's Winkler Flyers, scoring 16 goals and adding 8 assists in 44 games. He is another candidate with a strong chance to make this team out of camp. The coaching staff likes what he did at camp last year, and if the Morden, Manitoba native builds on that, he'll find a roster spot.
3) Matt Dumba ('94)
-Dumba will be highly-marketed over the course of training camp and the preseason, as most first-round Bantam picks are. Red Deer selected the Calgary-born defenseman 4th overall in April's draft. While not eligible to play this season as a 15 year-old, Dumba is the most eagerly-anticipated D prospect in the system since Dion Phanuef, and conincidentally, everyone who has seen Dumba play makes that very same on-ce comparison.
4) Matt Pufahl ('93)
-I liked Pufahl's game in last years rookie camp, and the coaching staff was pleased with his progress at this summer's prospects camp as well. With the departure of Tommi Kivisto, Pufahl could have a shot at sticking in a rare 16-year old defenseman capacity. The Saskatoon native had a solid season in the AAA Midget ranks.
5) Connor Redmond ('92)
-The jury is still out on the Rebels first rounder from 2007. At times last season (4 goals, 4 assists, 55 games) he looked like he was turning a developmental corner. At other times, he looked a bit bewildered. Power forwards though, do historically take longer to develop, and the club is hoping a dedicated summer will lead to a breakout this season.
6) John Persson ('92) and Jindra Barak ('92)
-The Rebels two picks from this summers CHL import draft, neither come with huge credentials, and both will be subject to evaluation as they arrive for camp. Persson, a 6'3'' Swedish forward, does come with a few good reviews, and Jesse Wallin has said he has the reputation of going to the net hard to score goals. Even less is known about Barak. a Czech-born defenseman. Some of the best European players to hit the WHL in recent years though, have been relatively unknown upon their arrival.
7) Justin Weller ('91)
-The offensive numbers are never going to be through the roff when it comes to Weller, but he has the size and drive to become an elite shutdown, physical blueliner. Last year was a season from hell for the recently-turned 18 year old. Two major injuries derailed an important season. Even still, Weller was snapped up in the fourth round of the NHL entry draft by Phoenix, which should boost his confidence. he'll be coming into camp healthy and motivated, and will be presented with boatloads of opportunity. Look for him to be paired with Colin Archer again from day one.
Again, more to come over the next week.......stay tuned. here is the camp schedule. All sessions are open to the public.
Sunday, August 23
8:30 – 10:00 am Rookies
10:30 – 11:30 am Team A – Main
11:45 – 12:45 pm Team B – Main
2:45 – 4:15 pm Rookies
4:45 – 6:15 pm Main (Scrimmage)
Monday, August 24
8:30 – 10:00 am Rookies
10:30 – 11:30 am Team B – Main
11:45 – 12:45 pm Team A – Main
2:45 – 4:15 pm Rookies
4:45 – 6:15 pm Main (Scrimmage)
Tuesday, August 25
8:30 – 10:00 am Rookies
10:30 – 11:15 am Team A – Main
11:30 – 12:15 pm Team B – Main
5:00 – 6:30 pm Game – Black vs. White
Wednesday, August 26
10:30 – 11:15 am Pre-game skate – Team B
11:30 – 12:15 pm Pre-game skate – Team A
7:00 pm McDonald’s Black and White Game
Just in time for camp, the Rebels have unveiled their new-look website: http://www.reddeerrebels.com/
I like the banner at the top, looking pretty sharp. If it were up to me, the Rebs would market a bit less when it comes to personalities such as Dion, but.....he is a star, so what can you do? Give me the "good guys" like Brandon Sutter, Colby Armstrong, Derek Meech, any day of the week.
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I'll have plenty of Rebels info as well coming up on MORON Sports (Sunday 8-9 a.m.) over the next few weeks as well. Head coach Jesse Wallin joins me this week, while Cam Moon will stop in as well to go through a few of the storylines...
Here are just a few of the players I will be watching very closely:
1) Daulton Siwak ('93)
- The Olds, Alberta native was Red Deer's 2nd round pick, 24th overall in the 2008 Bantam draft. After a great season playing for the AAA Midget Optimist Rebels, (7 goals and 35 points in 33 games, along with 83 PIM) Siwak got into 10 games with the big club at the end of the season, seeing limited ice time. He was held off the scoresheet, and will head into his 16 year-old season looking for his first WHL point. Barring disaster, Siwak is expected to be a full-time rookie this year.
2) Jordan Neduzak ('92)
-The 17 year-old had a decent season with the MJHL's Winkler Flyers, scoring 16 goals and adding 8 assists in 44 games. He is another candidate with a strong chance to make this team out of camp. The coaching staff likes what he did at camp last year, and if the Morden, Manitoba native builds on that, he'll find a roster spot.
3) Matt Dumba ('94)
-Dumba will be highly-marketed over the course of training camp and the preseason, as most first-round Bantam picks are. Red Deer selected the Calgary-born defenseman 4th overall in April's draft. While not eligible to play this season as a 15 year-old, Dumba is the most eagerly-anticipated D prospect in the system since Dion Phanuef, and conincidentally, everyone who has seen Dumba play makes that very same on-ce comparison.
4) Matt Pufahl ('93)
-I liked Pufahl's game in last years rookie camp, and the coaching staff was pleased with his progress at this summer's prospects camp as well. With the departure of Tommi Kivisto, Pufahl could have a shot at sticking in a rare 16-year old defenseman capacity. The Saskatoon native had a solid season in the AAA Midget ranks.
5) Connor Redmond ('92)
-The jury is still out on the Rebels first rounder from 2007. At times last season (4 goals, 4 assists, 55 games) he looked like he was turning a developmental corner. At other times, he looked a bit bewildered. Power forwards though, do historically take longer to develop, and the club is hoping a dedicated summer will lead to a breakout this season.6) John Persson ('92) and Jindra Barak ('92)
-The Rebels two picks from this summers CHL import draft, neither come with huge credentials, and both will be subject to evaluation as they arrive for camp. Persson, a 6'3'' Swedish forward, does come with a few good reviews, and Jesse Wallin has said he has the reputation of going to the net hard to score goals. Even less is known about Barak. a Czech-born defenseman. Some of the best European players to hit the WHL in recent years though, have been relatively unknown upon their arrival.
7) Justin Weller ('91)
-The offensive numbers are never going to be through the roff when it comes to Weller, but he has the size and drive to become an elite shutdown, physical blueliner. Last year was a season from hell for the recently-turned 18 year old. Two major injuries derailed an important season. Even still, Weller was snapped up in the fourth round of the NHL entry draft by Phoenix, which should boost his confidence. he'll be coming into camp healthy and motivated, and will be presented with boatloads of opportunity. Look for him to be paired with Colin Archer again from day one.
Again, more to come over the next week.......stay tuned. here is the camp schedule. All sessions are open to the public.
Sunday, August 23
8:30 – 10:00 am Rookies
10:30 – 11:30 am Team A – Main
11:45 – 12:45 pm Team B – Main
2:45 – 4:15 pm Rookies
4:45 – 6:15 pm Main (Scrimmage)
Monday, August 24
8:30 – 10:00 am Rookies
10:30 – 11:30 am Team B – Main
11:45 – 12:45 pm Team A – Main
2:45 – 4:15 pm Rookies
4:45 – 6:15 pm Main (Scrimmage)
Tuesday, August 25
8:30 – 10:00 am Rookies
10:30 – 11:15 am Team A – Main
11:30 – 12:15 pm Team B – Main
5:00 – 6:30 pm Game – Black vs. White
Wednesday, August 26
10:30 – 11:15 am Pre-game skate – Team B
11:30 – 12:15 pm Pre-game skate – Team A
7:00 pm McDonald’s Black and White Game
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Petrovic to u18's
Red Deer Rebels defenseman Alex Petrovic will soon be heading overseas to play for his country. The 17 year-old Edmonton native (Red Deers' 2nd round pick in the 2007 WHL Bantam Draft) has been named to Canada's World U18 team.
The team finalized it's roster on Tuesday after a weekend-long camp in Calgary. Petrovic is one of seven WHL'ers on the squad, and one of only two WHL d-men (Edmonton's Mark Pysyk is the other).
The annual Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament is set to go in the Czech Republic starting Tuesday, August 11th.
Petrovic is heading into his second season with the Rebels, and could wind up being a first-round pick in next summer's NHL entry draft.
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Former Rebel F Matt Ellison (2002-2003) signed a one-year contract with HC MVD Balashikha (Russia KHL). He had 15 goals and 24 assists in 55 games for Dinamo Riga (Latvia, KHL) last season.
Meanwhile, former Rebel goaltender Gerry Festa has signed on with the CHL's Laredo Bucks. Festa has spent the last four seasons at UBC.
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It's been a little slow on the blog as of late, but things will be heating up very soon. Hard to beleive that WHL camps will open up in less than three weeks.
The Rebels open training camp on Sunday, Aug. 23, and the McDonald’s Black and White intrasquad game will be played on Wednesday, Aug. 26 at the Centrium.
The team finalized it's roster on Tuesday after a weekend-long camp in Calgary. Petrovic is one of seven WHL'ers on the squad, and one of only two WHL d-men (Edmonton's Mark Pysyk is the other).The annual Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament is set to go in the Czech Republic starting Tuesday, August 11th.
Petrovic is heading into his second season with the Rebels, and could wind up being a first-round pick in next summer's NHL entry draft.
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Former Rebel F Matt Ellison (2002-2003) signed a one-year contract with HC MVD Balashikha (Russia KHL). He had 15 goals and 24 assists in 55 games for Dinamo Riga (Latvia, KHL) last season.
Meanwhile, former Rebel goaltender Gerry Festa has signed on with the CHL's Laredo Bucks. Festa has spent the last four seasons at UBC.
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It's been a little slow on the blog as of late, but things will be heating up very soon. Hard to beleive that WHL camps will open up in less than three weeks.
The Rebels open training camp on Sunday, Aug. 23, and the McDonald’s Black and White intrasquad game will be played on Wednesday, Aug. 26 at the Centrium.
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