Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Richard Story
As you may have noticed, the story about Richard in today's Times is actually Bryan Benway's press release. Turns out that in addition to me being on planes for half of the day, Coach Ruskowski was at a hockey camp out of town and unable to use his phone until fairly late in the day; I apologize for not being able to work around that. The team will most likely announce another signing next week, so I'll be sure to talk to coach about Richard then or before then and report back with what I find out.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Elmira Alumni
Richard Mini Bio
A couple hours of train/bus rides and walking after the announcement, I am at a computer and can share with you a bit of information about the Bucks' most recent signee.
Mike Richard
Position: Forward
Previous Team: Elmira College Soaring Eagles (NCAA Division III)
Height: 5-foot-9
Weight: 210
Date of Birth: Sept. 14, 1983
2007-08 Stats: 29 games, 10 goals, 33 assists (43 points), 26 penalty minutes
Immediate observations: Coach Ruskowski is going after mostly college players (or graduates) this year, rather than experienced pros or kids coming right out of juniors. They are also all fairly old as rookies go. Of course, we are only five announcements in, so who knows what will happen with the rest.
Richard's height and weight imply a bit of stockiness, but his penalty minute numbers don't seem on par with a very physical player. I guess I'll have to see him play before I make any real assessment of his style, but I will be giving coach a call soon to see what he has to say...and possibly to get in touch with Richard himself.
On a side note, I am obviously out of the office, so I will not be able to respond to my work email. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them on the blog, and I will respond to you as soon as possible.
Mike RichardPosition: Forward
Previous Team: Elmira College Soaring Eagles (NCAA Division III)
Height: 5-foot-9
Weight: 210
Date of Birth: Sept. 14, 1983
2007-08 Stats: 29 games, 10 goals, 33 assists (43 points), 26 penalty minutes
Immediate observations: Coach Ruskowski is going after mostly college players (or graduates) this year, rather than experienced pros or kids coming right out of juniors. They are also all fairly old as rookies go. Of course, we are only five announcements in, so who knows what will happen with the rest.
Richard's height and weight imply a bit of stockiness, but his penalty minute numbers don't seem on par with a very physical player. I guess I'll have to see him play before I make any real assessment of his style, but I will be giving coach a call soon to see what he has to say...and possibly to get in touch with Richard himself.
On a side note, I am obviously out of the office, so I will not be able to respond to my work email. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them on the blog, and I will respond to you as soon as possible.
Richard Signing Announced
The Bucks announced the signing of rookie forward Michael Richard...while I was on a plane.
I will do more with this as soon as I can get to a computer, but for now, here is Bucks Director of Media Relations/Broadcasting Bryan Benway's press release, entitled "Richard Rockets His Way to Laredo":
The Laredo Bucks of the Central Hockey League announced Tuesday that they have signed rookie forward Michael Richard (pronounced Rih-shard) for the 2008-09 season. Richard comes to the Bucks after shining for the past four seasons at Division III Elmira College (NCAA) in Elmira, NY.
Richard, from LaSalle, Quebec, led the Soaring Eagles in scoring for the second straight season in 2007-08, by scoring 10 goals, with 33 assists for 43 points. Richard was named ECAC West Co-Player of the Year, as well as earning First Team All-Conference honors. At the 2008 Final Four in Lake Placid, NY Richard was named to the RBK All-American First Team, as well as finishing fifth in the nation in assists (1.14 per game).
After his senior season with the Soaring Eagles ended in March, Richard didn’t have to drive far to start his pro career as he played in two games for the ECHL’s Elmira Jackals. In the two games with the Jackals, Richard didn’t register any points while seeing limited ice time.
“Mike is a very skilled and talented player, and he should be exciting to watch”, said Bucks head coach and general manager Terry Ruskowski. “He can play right wing or center, his numbers prove that he’s a gifted hockey player”.
The 5’9, 210 pound Richard finished in the top five in team scoring in each of his four seasons with Elmira, including leading the team in his junior and senior years. In 111 career games with the Soaring Eagles Richard tallied 42 goals, with 84 assists, for 126 points. 17 of Richards 42 career goals came on the power-play. Richard became the 46th Elmira player to eclipse the 100 career college points.
“Mike’s intensity and passion was unmatched on our squad (Elmira)”, said Soaring Eagles head coach Tim Ceglarski. “His leadership as captain with us was crucial with so many new faces on the roster (last season)”.
Richard, was team captain in his senior campaign, led the Soaring Eagles to the NCAA Division III Final Four in two of his four seasons (2006, 2008), including capturing the 2006 ECAC West Championship.
In the 2006 ECAC West playoffs Richard came up big, scoring twice and handing out three assists combined in two tournament games. In Elmira’s 4-3 semi-final win over Hobart Richard tallied two goals with one assist, while in the Soaring Eagles 3-2 championship win over Utica he dished out the game-winning assist late in the third period.
“During training camp we need to find out where he will fit in our system, and see who he will play on a line with”, Ruskowski said. “I know that he will come in here in October ready to go. We are looking forward to see what he can do”.
Prior to his college career Richard played four years of junior hockey in the Central Junior Hockey League (CHJL), where he split time with Ottawa and Gloucester. While in juniors Richard piled up 200 points in 190 games in his four seasons.
I will do more with this as soon as I can get to a computer, but for now, here is Bucks Director of Media Relations/Broadcasting Bryan Benway's press release, entitled "Richard Rockets His Way to Laredo":
The Laredo Bucks of the Central Hockey League announced Tuesday that they have signed rookie forward Michael Richard (pronounced Rih-shard) for the 2008-09 season. Richard comes to the Bucks after shining for the past four seasons at Division III Elmira College (NCAA) in Elmira, NY.
Richard, from LaSalle, Quebec, led the Soaring Eagles in scoring for the second straight season in 2007-08, by scoring 10 goals, with 33 assists for 43 points. Richard was named ECAC West Co-Player of the Year, as well as earning First Team All-Conference honors. At the 2008 Final Four in Lake Placid, NY Richard was named to the RBK All-American First Team, as well as finishing fifth in the nation in assists (1.14 per game).
After his senior season with the Soaring Eagles ended in March, Richard didn’t have to drive far to start his pro career as he played in two games for the ECHL’s Elmira Jackals. In the two games with the Jackals, Richard didn’t register any points while seeing limited ice time.
“Mike is a very skilled and talented player, and he should be exciting to watch”, said Bucks head coach and general manager Terry Ruskowski. “He can play right wing or center, his numbers prove that he’s a gifted hockey player”.
The 5’9, 210 pound Richard finished in the top five in team scoring in each of his four seasons with Elmira, including leading the team in his junior and senior years. In 111 career games with the Soaring Eagles Richard tallied 42 goals, with 84 assists, for 126 points. 17 of Richards 42 career goals came on the power-play. Richard became the 46th Elmira player to eclipse the 100 career college points.
“Mike’s intensity and passion was unmatched on our squad (Elmira)”, said Soaring Eagles head coach Tim Ceglarski. “His leadership as captain with us was crucial with so many new faces on the roster (last season)”.
Richard, was team captain in his senior campaign, led the Soaring Eagles to the NCAA Division III Final Four in two of his four seasons (2006, 2008), including capturing the 2006 ECAC West Championship.
In the 2006 ECAC West playoffs Richard came up big, scoring twice and handing out three assists combined in two tournament games. In Elmira’s 4-3 semi-final win over Hobart Richard tallied two goals with one assist, while in the Soaring Eagles 3-2 championship win over Utica he dished out the game-winning assist late in the third period.
“During training camp we need to find out where he will fit in our system, and see who he will play on a line with”, Ruskowski said. “I know that he will come in here in October ready to go. We are looking forward to see what he can do”.
Prior to his college career Richard played four years of junior hockey in the Central Junior Hockey League (CHJL), where he split time with Ottawa and Gloucester. While in juniors Richard piled up 200 points in 190 games in his four seasons.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Monday, Monday
The Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees made the signing of Chris Brooks as their next head coach official at a press conference today.
Brian Sandalow has the story, and there are plenty of video clips from the conference on the Bees' web site.
Brooks was signed to a three-year deal, apparently one that could have happened sooner if not for a little shakeup at Western Michigan University two years ago. Assistant Coach Sean Gillam will stay in that spot for the Bees.
Back in Bucks' territory, Director of Media Relations/Broadcasting Bryan Benway has the team's weekly community update.
And, last but not least, a few transaction notes:
The Mississippi RiverKings have re-signed right wing Darrell Stoddard.
The Amarillo Gorillas have signed recent trade acquisition Gordon Bell.
Daymen Rycroft, last season's top goal scorer, has re-signed with the Rocky Mountain Rage.
The defending champion Arizona Sundogs have re-signed forwards Kyle Hood, Karl Sellan and Jason Visser.
Of course, those are just a few of the many transactions that have been occurring around the league; you can find the complete list here.
Thanks again to everyone who has visited this blog so far. Be sure to check back for some Bucks' news sometime tomorrow.
Brian Sandalow has the story, and there are plenty of video clips from the conference on the Bees' web site.
Brooks was signed to a three-year deal, apparently one that could have happened sooner if not for a little shakeup at Western Michigan University two years ago. Assistant Coach Sean Gillam will stay in that spot for the Bees.
Back in Bucks' territory, Director of Media Relations/Broadcasting Bryan Benway has the team's weekly community update.
And, last but not least, a few transaction notes:
The Mississippi RiverKings have re-signed right wing Darrell Stoddard.
The Amarillo Gorillas have signed recent trade acquisition Gordon Bell.
Daymen Rycroft, last season's top goal scorer, has re-signed with the Rocky Mountain Rage.
The defending champion Arizona Sundogs have re-signed forwards Kyle Hood, Karl Sellan and Jason Visser.
Of course, those are just a few of the many transactions that have been occurring around the league; you can find the complete list here.
Thanks again to everyone who has visited this blog so far. Be sure to check back for some Bucks' news sometime tomorrow.
A Re-Introduction
When I started working on this blog a little over six weeks ago, I made an introductory post.
At this point, quite a few of you have discovered the blog already, and the new LMT site will be up and running in a matter of hours...so 59 posts later, I am going to re-introduce it on a page that will be easier to access right now.
This is your official Laredo Morning Times Bucks blog, and, as the LMT Bucks beat writer, I will be the main contributor. Please feel free to contact me any time through this blog or at lmtbucks@gmail.com, jlindsay@lmtonline.com or (956)728-2576.
As you can see, there are already plenty of posts to keep you busy for a little while, and I will continue to update as frequently as there are things to talk about. Once the season begins, I plan to post quotes following morning skates, live blog during games and pretty much flood this site with posts.
Just to catch up with a few important dates in the Bucks' future, the annual open house will be held Saturday, Aug. 23, training camp opens Monday, Oct. 6, and the home and regular season opener will be played Friday, Oct. 17, against the Rocky Mountain Rage.
I am counting down the days until the season begins (70 until training camp; 82 until the season opener), and I very much look forward to my second year writing about the team. I hope to keep you as informed as humanly (and electronically) possible, and I hope that you enjoy this new aspect of LMT Bucks coverage.
And now, the links:
Laredo Bucks
Central Hockey League
Poinstreak CHL Stats
Brian Sandalow's Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees Blog for The Monitor
Greg Rajan's Corpus Christi IceRays Blog for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times
Rio Broadcaster Rich Bocchini's Killer Bees Blog
Adam Dunivan's Colorado Eagles Blog for the Loveland Reporter-Herald
In closing, I'd like to sincerely thank everyone who visits this page for your interest. Truly, do not hesitate to comment or contact me at any time.
At this point, quite a few of you have discovered the blog already, and the new LMT site will be up and running in a matter of hours...so 59 posts later, I am going to re-introduce it on a page that will be easier to access right now.
This is your official Laredo Morning Times Bucks blog, and, as the LMT Bucks beat writer, I will be the main contributor. Please feel free to contact me any time through this blog or at lmtbucks@gmail.com, jlindsay@lmtonline.com or (956)728-2576.
As you can see, there are already plenty of posts to keep you busy for a little while, and I will continue to update as frequently as there are things to talk about. Once the season begins, I plan to post quotes following morning skates, live blog during games and pretty much flood this site with posts.
Just to catch up with a few important dates in the Bucks' future, the annual open house will be held Saturday, Aug. 23, training camp opens Monday, Oct. 6, and the home and regular season opener will be played Friday, Oct. 17, against the Rocky Mountain Rage.
I am counting down the days until the season begins (70 until training camp; 82 until the season opener), and I very much look forward to my second year writing about the team. I hope to keep you as informed as humanly (and electronically) possible, and I hope that you enjoy this new aspect of LMT Bucks coverage.
And now, the links:
Laredo Bucks
Central Hockey League
Poinstreak CHL Stats
Brian Sandalow's Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees Blog for The Monitor
Greg Rajan's Corpus Christi IceRays Blog for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times
Rio Broadcaster Rich Bocchini's Killer Bees Blog
Adam Dunivan's Colorado Eagles Blog for the Loveland Reporter-Herald
In closing, I'd like to sincerely thank everyone who visits this page for your interest. Truly, do not hesitate to comment or contact me at any time.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Bucks' New Radio Home
The Bucks announced yesterday that their radio home for the next three seasons will be Imagen 94.1-FM, which explains Director of Media Relations/Broadcasting Bryan Benway's recent trip to Monterrey.
Broadcasts will be moved back to FM radio after spending last season on NORTEÑO 1490.
You can read the press release about the radio move here.
If you continue past all of the radio talk, you may notice that there is a note about training camp beginning October 6, which means 73 days until the first practice! And, of course, there are 84 days until the season opener against the Rocky Mountain Rage.
Broadcasts will be moved back to FM radio after spending last season on NORTEÑO 1490.
You can read the press release about the radio move here.
If you continue past all of the radio talk, you may notice that there is a note about training camp beginning October 6, which means 73 days until the first practice! And, of course, there are 84 days until the season opener against the Rocky Mountain Rage.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Bees Hire Brooks
The Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees will hold a press conference on Monday to announce their head coach for the 2008-09 season...but the cat's out of the bag, as Brian Sandalow is reporting that Chris Brooks has been hired to the position.
Brooks comes to the Bees from Western Michigan University, where he had been on the coaching staff for nine seasons, most recently as associate head coach. Brooks has no professional or head coaching experience but, as Greg Rajan points out, he does have some history with Bees GM Grant Buckborough from their days with the Amarillo Rattlers of the WPHL.
Brooks comes to the Bees from Western Michigan University, where he had been on the coaching staff for nine seasons, most recently as associate head coach. Brooks has no professional or head coaching experience but, as Greg Rajan points out, he does have some history with Bees GM Grant Buckborough from their days with the Amarillo Rattlers of the WPHL.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Open House Announced
The Bucks announced today that their open house for the 2008-09 season will be held on Saturday, August 23, at the LEC. You can read the release about that here.
Now we are 86 days away from the regular season and just 30 away from the open house. Pretty exciting stuff...
This has nothing to do with the Bucks, but Greg Wyshynski of Yahoo!Sports has a story about a story about Alexander Ovechkin on his "Puck Daddy Blog" today. It calls to mind his previous story of this nature. Ovechkin is certainly an amusing interview...too bad I don't speak Russian!
Now we are 86 days away from the regular season and just 30 away from the open house. Pretty exciting stuff...
This has nothing to do with the Bucks, but Greg Wyshynski of Yahoo!Sports has a story about a story about Alexander Ovechkin on his "Puck Daddy Blog" today. It calls to mind his previous story of this nature. Ovechkin is certainly an amusing interview...too bad I don't speak Russian!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Summers Story
Here is my story about the Matt Summers re-signing from today's Times.
Matt is one of the few people in the world who could say he had a "fire in his belly" and have me actually believe him. He and Alex Penner were the only two players who came out of the locker room following the loss to Arizona in Game 7 of the Southern Conference finals, and he was truly devastated.
Coach Ruskowski had said earlier this season that only eight players from last season would be coming back, but what that meant was he was interested in returning eight. Summers is one, and there are five easy guesses if Serge Dube chooses not to retire...but only time will tell if the number will even get as high as eight.
On a side note, everyone please stay safe during this hurricane.
Matt is one of the few people in the world who could say he had a "fire in his belly" and have me actually believe him. He and Alex Penner were the only two players who came out of the locker room following the loss to Arizona in Game 7 of the Southern Conference finals, and he was truly devastated.
Coach Ruskowski had said earlier this season that only eight players from last season would be coming back, but what that meant was he was interested in returning eight. Summers is one, and there are five easy guesses if Serge Dube chooses not to retire...but only time will tell if the number will even get as high as eight.
On a side note, everyone please stay safe during this hurricane.
Baird Fundraiser
Something I've been meaning to mention is the fact that Ken McRae and his wife Angela will be hosting a benefit for Jason Baird's family on July 31. You can read about that here.
According to the CaringBridge site Jason's wife Bethany is updating, he will soon begin breathing on his own. There are now eight pages of guestbook entries on the site; it's truly heartwarming to see people reach out the way they have.
According to the CaringBridge site Jason's wife Bethany is updating, he will soon begin breathing on his own. There are now eight pages of guestbook entries on the site; it's truly heartwarming to see people reach out the way they have.
That Other Stuff...
Turns out I was able to talk to Matt via his father's cell phone, and he seemed very excited to come back. Knowing what I do of him from last season, I'm sure he is.
I didn't get too many quotes from him, so all of the noteworthy ones will be in my story in tomorrow's Times. I remember how excited everyone was when he came through with that sudden-death shootout goal during the Bucks' 6-5 win over the Arizona Sundogs on January 11; hopefully he'll be making plenty of other memories during the upcoming season.
As previously hinted at, there was a trade earlier today that sent forward Bill Vandermeer from the Amarillo Gorillas to the Oklahoma City Blazers in exchange for forwards Ryan Watson, Gordon Bell and John Kozoriz (or at least their rights).
The twist to this story is that Bill's brother Ted Vandermeer played for the currently suspended Austin Ice Bats during the 2007-08 season and was thus available...so the Blazers signed both Vandermeers for their upcoming campaign.
Because it seems to have left the page, here is the link to that CHL transaction list again.
And because I forgot to post it earlier, here is Greg Rajan's story about new IceRays Coach Sylvain Cloutier from today's Corpus Christi Caller-Times.
I didn't get too many quotes from him, so all of the noteworthy ones will be in my story in tomorrow's Times. I remember how excited everyone was when he came through with that sudden-death shootout goal during the Bucks' 6-5 win over the Arizona Sundogs on January 11; hopefully he'll be making plenty of other memories during the upcoming season.
As previously hinted at, there was a trade earlier today that sent forward Bill Vandermeer from the Amarillo Gorillas to the Oklahoma City Blazers in exchange for forwards Ryan Watson, Gordon Bell and John Kozoriz (or at least their rights).
The twist to this story is that Bill's brother Ted Vandermeer played for the currently suspended Austin Ice Bats during the 2007-08 season and was thus available...so the Blazers signed both Vandermeers for their upcoming campaign.
Because it seems to have left the page, here is the link to that CHL transaction list again.
And because I forgot to post it earlier, here is Greg Rajan's story about new IceRays Coach Sylvain Cloutier from today's Corpus Christi Caller-Times.
Desi Out
EuroHockey.net, one of the more useful sources of information I've come across, has not been functioning on my computer (or possibly at all?) for the past couple of days. Because of that, I just discovered that center Andrew Desjardins has signed with the ECHL's Phoenix Roadrunners for the 2008-09 season. The signing was announced on Monday.
Last season, Desjardins had 22 goals and 37 assists for 59 points - the third-highest total among CHL rookies - and was subsequently a finalist for the Rookie of the Year award. He was superb as the center man for the Jeff Bes-James Hiebert line but was moved off of it toward the end of the year and for most of the playoffs to make room for late-season addition Chris Stanley. Desjardins had two goals and four assists in the Bucks' 11 postseason games.
Desjardins is the second 2007-08 Buck to sign a deal with another team, but Coach Ruskowski maintains that Steve Simoes signing with the Saint-Francois Sherbrook does not mean he is not coming back to Laredo next season. Desi, on the other hand, is probably in Phoenix to stay. If it leads to bigger and better things for him, I'm sure coach will be thrilled.
Last season, Desjardins had 22 goals and 37 assists for 59 points - the third-highest total among CHL rookies - and was subsequently a finalist for the Rookie of the Year award. He was superb as the center man for the Jeff Bes-James Hiebert line but was moved off of it toward the end of the year and for most of the playoffs to make room for late-season addition Chris Stanley. Desjardins had two goals and four assists in the Bucks' 11 postseason games.
Desjardins is the second 2007-08 Buck to sign a deal with another team, but Coach Ruskowski maintains that Steve Simoes signing with the Saint-Francois Sherbrook does not mean he is not coming back to Laredo next season. Desi, on the other hand, is probably in Phoenix to stay. If it leads to bigger and better things for him, I'm sure coach will be thrilled.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Colorado Surprise
Just because everything always happens on the same day, Colorado Eagles Head Coach Chris Stewart has stepped down...and Kevin McClelland has taken over. You can read the press release here.
A few other things have also come to light in the past couple hours, but being the interim Heat beat writer with Avery Johnson in town requires that I wait until later to post about them. So I'll have more on the league news, Matt Summers' return and who knows what else later tonight...
A few other things have also come to light in the past couple hours, but being the interim Heat beat writer with Avery Johnson in town requires that I wait until later to post about them. So I'll have more on the league news, Matt Summers' return and who knows what else later tonight...
Summers Re-Signs
The Bucks have announced their first re-signing of this offseason, as forward Matt Summers will be back for another season in Laredo.
Summers played 57 during the 2007-08 regular season, his rookie campaign, and scored 12 goals while tallying 23 assists for a total of 35 points. Five of his goals were game-winners.
In the postseason, he "played" 11 games, but usually only skated a shift or two in each, and still managed to score a goal.
Though he played in a majority of the Bucks' regular season contests, Summers struggled with an injury during part of the season which could have limited his productivity. In his final season with the OCN Blizzard of the MJHL (2006-07), he had 50 goals and 69 assists for 119 points.
Summers turned 22 last week, which means he is the youngest of the currently announced 2008-09 signees but also the only one with professional experience.
I will be calling Coach Ruskowski later to talk to him about this decision, but I'm not surprised because I know he liked Summers from day one. I would call Summers, too, but he doesn't have a cell phone (or at least didn't while he was here) in spite of being the only player on last season's roster from the States (Savage, Minn.).
For now, you can get more information from the Bucks' press release.
Summers played 57 during the 2007-08 regular season, his rookie campaign, and scored 12 goals while tallying 23 assists for a total of 35 points. Five of his goals were game-winners.
In the postseason, he "played" 11 games, but usually only skated a shift or two in each, and still managed to score a goal.
Though he played in a majority of the Bucks' regular season contests, Summers struggled with an injury during part of the season which could have limited his productivity. In his final season with the OCN Blizzard of the MJHL (2006-07), he had 50 goals and 69 assists for 119 points.
Summers turned 22 last week, which means he is the youngest of the currently announced 2008-09 signees but also the only one with professional experience.
I will be calling Coach Ruskowski later to talk to him about this decision, but I'm not surprised because I know he liked Summers from day one. I would call Summers, too, but he doesn't have a cell phone (or at least didn't while he was here) in spite of being the only player on last season's roster from the States (Savage, Minn.).
For now, you can get more information from the Bucks' press release.
Monday, July 21, 2008
A Coach for Corpus
Greg Rajan has word that the IceRays have hired Sylvain Cloutier as their coach for the 2008-09 season, leaving the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees alone in coachless territory.
Cloutier, whose older brother Dan was an longtime NHL goaltender, has played with 14 teams in eight different leagues since starting his junior career with the Guelph Storm in 1991, including seven games with the Chicago Blackhawks during the 1998-99 season.
This is his Cloutier's first gig as a head coach, but he has been a player/assistant coach for several teams and apparently got a rousing recommendation from the one and only Barry Melrose. The IceRays have signed him for two years and have the option for a third. Expect more on this story from Rajan tomorrow.
Cloutier, whose older brother Dan was an longtime NHL goaltender, has played with 14 teams in eight different leagues since starting his junior career with the Guelph Storm in 1991, including seven games with the Chicago Blackhawks during the 1998-99 season.
This is his Cloutier's first gig as a head coach, but he has been a player/assistant coach for several teams and apparently got a rousing recommendation from the one and only Barry Melrose. The IceRays have signed him for two years and have the option for a third. Expect more on this story from Rajan tomorrow.
Today's Notebook
I possibly got a bit carried away in writing today's notebook, which you can read here.
But, of course, some things still landed on the cutting room floor. I will post some quotes from Coach Ruskowski later with more thoughts on the players he has signed and the people who help him find them, as well as a couple of other topics.
Alas, it seems the Amarillo Gorillas made their first signing public last Wednesday, and I just missed that somehow. Forward Brian Bicek will be a part of the Gorillas' training camp lineup. This is totally irrelevant, but he is exactly four months younger than me...
Just to further mess up my story, the Mississippi RiverKings decided to announce their first signing today, making public the re-signing of captain/defenseman Derek Landmesser. I love that name.
But, of course, some things still landed on the cutting room floor. I will post some quotes from Coach Ruskowski later with more thoughts on the players he has signed and the people who help him find them, as well as a couple of other topics.
Alas, it seems the Amarillo Gorillas made their first signing public last Wednesday, and I just missed that somehow. Forward Brian Bicek will be a part of the Gorillas' training camp lineup. This is totally irrelevant, but he is exactly four months younger than me...
Just to further mess up my story, the Mississippi RiverKings decided to announce their first signing today, making public the re-signing of captain/defenseman Derek Landmesser. I love that name.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Baird Update
Jason Baird's wife Bethany has created a website to keep fans, friends and family informed of her husband's condition. You can visit the site to read updates and leave some encouraging words in the guestbook. As of tonight, Baird is in stable condition but still considered critical.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Schedule Story, Etc...
Here is my story about the 2008-09 schedule in today's Times.
Hopefully Coach Ruskowski will be a little happier about things once the season rolls around in 91 days, five hours, 14 minutes and 30 seconds (Thank you, Rapid City Rush countdown...minus 35 minutes).
In other news around the league, another tragedy has struck the CHL community as Jason Baird was involved in an accident while doing landscaping work on Thursday. Greg Rajan has more information and updates via reader comments, which thankfully imply Baird is in stable condition. Hopefully, for his sake and that of his wife and young daughter, he will be able to recover from the burns and any other injuries suffered that night.
On a lighter note, looks like Paul Fixter and Ken McRae are taking their rivalry to the OHL. If the Killer Bees had any thought in their minds about hiring former IceRays Coach McRae to take over in the Valley, those have been erased by news of his hiring by the Peterborough Petes (via Rajan). McRae and the Petes will face the Kitchener Rangers, for whom Fixter is now associate coach and assistant general manager, on October 24 and November 13.
Also headed to the OHL is former Buck and Killer Bee Nick Warriner, who has signed on as an assistant coach for the Soo Greyhounds. Brian Sandalow has more on that.
Hopefully Coach Ruskowski will be a little happier about things once the season rolls around in 91 days, five hours, 14 minutes and 30 seconds (Thank you, Rapid City Rush countdown...minus 35 minutes).
In other news around the league, another tragedy has struck the CHL community as Jason Baird was involved in an accident while doing landscaping work on Thursday. Greg Rajan has more information and updates via reader comments, which thankfully imply Baird is in stable condition. Hopefully, for his sake and that of his wife and young daughter, he will be able to recover from the burns and any other injuries suffered that night.
On a lighter note, looks like Paul Fixter and Ken McRae are taking their rivalry to the OHL. If the Killer Bees had any thought in their minds about hiring former IceRays Coach McRae to take over in the Valley, those have been erased by news of his hiring by the Peterborough Petes (via Rajan). McRae and the Petes will face the Kitchener Rangers, for whom Fixter is now associate coach and assistant general manager, on October 24 and November 13.
Also headed to the OHL is former Buck and Killer Bee Nick Warriner, who has signed on as an assistant coach for the Soo Greyhounds. Brian Sandalow has more on that.
Friday, July 18, 2008
About That Schedule...
I stopped by the LEC today to talk to Coach Ruskowski about the 2008-09 schedule, among other things, and let's just say he isn't too thrilled by what the CHL put together for his team this season.
Many of the topics we discussed will be addressed in my story in tomorrow's Times. But, of course, some quotes didn't make it to print, so here's a little bit more of what he had to say:
On starting the season at home - “I’d prefer to play on the road, but I guess we’ll have to play at home. We’ll do what we have to do.”
On being on the road for the holidays - “It's very unfortunate that had to happen. I feel that Thanksgiving is a time to be with your family, and certainly for the birth of Christ, you want to be home and stay with your family and celebrate it with your family. It's very unfortunate that we have to be on the road for that.”
On one-game trips to Odessa (March 6 and March 26) - “We play at home, then we go all the way up to Odessa and play one game, then come home. We do that twice in March. Right at the end of the season, that's very tough. What you want to do with a schedule is have the least amount of travel you can, especially if it's a tight race and every point is very important to you. You don't want to be in a situation where you're tired or whatever, so that's another situation I'm not very happy with.”
On the team's first three-game weekend (October 24 at Rio, October 25 at Corpus, October 26 vs. Rapid City) - “That's not as bad. You're talking about getting home at 2:00 or 3:00 in the morning, then playing the next day. That's not awfully bad; it's almost acceptable.”
All-around, it seems the team is not too thrilled with this season's schedule for the aforementioned reasons and because there will be seven home games following which everyone has to pack up and hit the bus to head out for a road contest.
I'll have a notebook running in Monday's paper with more about the schedule, Ruskowski's opinions about the announced players and more about a few other topics.
Many of the topics we discussed will be addressed in my story in tomorrow's Times. But, of course, some quotes didn't make it to print, so here's a little bit more of what he had to say:
On starting the season at home - “I’d prefer to play on the road, but I guess we’ll have to play at home. We’ll do what we have to do.”
On being on the road for the holidays - “It's very unfortunate that had to happen. I feel that Thanksgiving is a time to be with your family, and certainly for the birth of Christ, you want to be home and stay with your family and celebrate it with your family. It's very unfortunate that we have to be on the road for that.”
On one-game trips to Odessa (March 6 and March 26) - “We play at home, then we go all the way up to Odessa and play one game, then come home. We do that twice in March. Right at the end of the season, that's very tough. What you want to do with a schedule is have the least amount of travel you can, especially if it's a tight race and every point is very important to you. You don't want to be in a situation where you're tired or whatever, so that's another situation I'm not very happy with.”
On the team's first three-game weekend (October 24 at Rio, October 25 at Corpus, October 26 vs. Rapid City) - “That's not as bad. You're talking about getting home at 2:00 or 3:00 in the morning, then playing the next day. That's not awfully bad; it's almost acceptable.”
All-around, it seems the team is not too thrilled with this season's schedule for the aforementioned reasons and because there will be seven home games following which everyone has to pack up and hit the bus to head out for a road contest.
I'll have a notebook running in Monday's paper with more about the schedule, Ruskowski's opinions about the announced players and more about a few other topics.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Okay, Scratch That...
Schedules are already up on Pointstreak! So here is the Laredo Bucks' 2008-09 schedule.
Of course, this means schedules are up for all the other teams as well, and you can get to those through the link above.
Of course, this means schedules are up for all the other teams as well, and you can get to those through the link above.
Schedule Time
It is official; the 2008-09 CHL schedules will be released tomorrow.
Regular season games will begin on Friday, October 17, with all but two teams playing and end on Saturday, March 21, with every team in action.
Because there are 16 teams in the league this season and each needs to play 64 games, there will be 512 games total.
The Bucks will have their usual heavy schedules against the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees and Corpus Christi IceRays and can expect a lot more games against new Southeast Division foe the Texas Brahmas, who they faced only twice last season.
I will be meeting with Coach Ruskowski tomorrow morning to talk to him about the schedule, the newly-announced player signings and the coaching situation in Rio, among other things.
I've been told that this season's schedule keeps the Bucks out of Laredo around the holidays and is pretty light on Sunday games, but I guess we'll find out tomorrow exactly when they'll be where. I have to say, I'm pretty excited; t-minus three months until the regular season begins!
Regular season games will begin on Friday, October 17, with all but two teams playing and end on Saturday, March 21, with every team in action.
Because there are 16 teams in the league this season and each needs to play 64 games, there will be 512 games total.
The Bucks will have their usual heavy schedules against the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees and Corpus Christi IceRays and can expect a lot more games against new Southeast Division foe the Texas Brahmas, who they faced only twice last season.
I will be meeting with Coach Ruskowski tomorrow morning to talk to him about the schedule, the newly-announced player signings and the coaching situation in Rio, among other things.
I've been told that this season's schedule keeps the Bucks out of Laredo around the holidays and is pretty light on Sunday games, but I guess we'll find out tomorrow exactly when they'll be where. I have to say, I'm pretty excited; t-minus three months until the regular season begins!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Signing Recap to Date
So far, the Bucks have announced three players for the upcoming season, so here are mugs and little bios for each:
Ryan Gibb
Position: Goaltender
Previous Team: Queen's University Golden Gaels (CIS)
Position: Goaltender
Previous Team: Queen's University Golden Gaels (CIS)
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 195 pounds
Date of Birth: June 29, 1985
2007-08 Stats: 19 games, 11-7 record, 9.22 save percentage, 2.86 goals-against average, one shutout
Date of Birth: June 29, 1985
2007-08 Stats: 19 games, 11-7 record, 9.22 save percentage, 2.86 goals-against average, one shutout
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 209 pounds
Date of Birth: May 31, 1983
2007-08 Stats: 27 games, two goals, six assists (eight points), 61 penalty minutes
Date of Birth: May 31, 1983
2007-08 Stats: 27 games, two goals, six assists (eight points), 61 penalty minutes
Devin FeatherstonePosition: Defense
Previous Team: University of Lethbridge Pronghorns(CIS)
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 211 pounds
Date of Birth: January 11, 1985
2007-08 Stats: 28 games, two goals, nine assists (11 points), 91 penalty minutes
Third Off-Season Signing
The Bucks announced their third signing for the 2008-09 season earlier today, revealing that they have inked another rookie defenseman in Devin Featherstone.
Featherstone played the past two years at the University of Lethbridge, following four seasons with the Prince George Cougars of the WHL. I'll have more on this later, but for now, you can read the Bucks' press release here.
According to the quotes from Coach Ruskowski in the release, Featherstone is "absolutely wonderful to talk to," so I will look forward to the first time I get to do that.
Featherstone played the past two years at the University of Lethbridge, following four seasons with the Prince George Cougars of the WHL. I'll have more on this later, but for now, you can read the Bucks' press release here.
According to the quotes from Coach Ruskowski in the release, Featherstone is "absolutely wonderful to talk to," so I will look forward to the first time I get to do that.
More on the RGV Situation
Apparently the Killer Bees have quite a few coaching candidates in mind, as detailed in Brian Sandalow's story here. The heavy favorite appears to be Assistant Coach Sean Gillam, but only time will tell who gets this job, as well as the one in Corpus Christi.
When I get back to Laredo, I'll be getting Coach Ruskowski's opinion on this situation and a few other things for a notebook that should run this weekend. Looks like the Bees are going to have a busy summer from this point on, including the charity game, which begins in a little under an hour...
When I get back to Laredo, I'll be getting Coach Ruskowski's opinion on this situation and a few other things for a notebook that should run this weekend. Looks like the Bees are going to have a busy summer from this point on, including the charity game, which begins in a little under an hour...
From the Ice to the Catwalk
A few members of the Bucks organization will be modeling in a fundraising fashion show at the Laredo Civic Center on Sunday, August 3. Admission requires a $20 donation, with all proceeds benefitting the Dignity U. Wear Foundation.
For more information, you can read the Bucks' press release here.
For more information, you can read the Bucks' press release here.
Monday, July 14, 2008
A Little Perspective
The Corpus Christi IceRays are no longer the lone coachless franchise in the CHL, as Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees Coach Paul Fixter has signed with the Kitchener Rangers as their associate coach and assistant general manager. The Rangers play in the Ontario Hockey League, one of the major junior tiers, and won the OHL title in their most recent season.
I don't think a lot of people saw this coming, and now the Bees are going to have to hire their fourth coach in just six seasons. Brian Sandalow will have updates on his blog throughout the day, but for now, here's his first story on Fixter's departure.
As shocking as this story may be, it's nothing compared to the news coming out of Jefferson, Iowa, as Rob Guinn was tragically killed in a car accident on Saturday. Guinn, who started his career in the WPHL, played with both the New Mexico Scorpions and Tulsa Oilers of the CHL. He was only 32 years old and is survived by his wife and five-month-old daughter. The CHL website has more info and a quote from Commissioner Duane Lewis here.
I don't think a lot of people saw this coming, and now the Bees are going to have to hire their fourth coach in just six seasons. Brian Sandalow will have updates on his blog throughout the day, but for now, here's his first story on Fixter's departure.
As shocking as this story may be, it's nothing compared to the news coming out of Jefferson, Iowa, as Rob Guinn was tragically killed in a car accident on Saturday. Guinn, who started his career in the WPHL, played with both the New Mexico Scorpions and Tulsa Oilers of the CHL. He was only 32 years old and is survived by his wife and five-month-old daughter. The CHL website has more info and a quote from Commissioner Duane Lewis here.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Charity Game Rescheduled
Jason Cirone's charity game has been moved from this coming Tuesday to Wednesday night. Time and place will stay the same, but the other charity events have also been rescheduled.
Brian Sandalow has full info on the changes and, in a previous post, lineups for the game.
Just a reminder, 2007-08 Bucks Igor Agarunov, Jeff Bes, Serge Dube, Adam Rivet and Steve Weidlich will be participating in this event, which benefits Driscoll's Children's Hospital, the McCarty Cancer Foundation and Rio Grande Valley Youth Hockey.
Tickets are only $5 in advance and $6 at the door.
Brian Sandalow has full info on the changes and, in a previous post, lineups for the game.
Just a reminder, 2007-08 Bucks Igor Agarunov, Jeff Bes, Serge Dube, Adam Rivet and Steve Weidlich will be participating in this event, which benefits Driscoll's Children's Hospital, the McCarty Cancer Foundation and Rio Grande Valley Youth Hockey.
Tickets are only $5 in advance and $6 at the door.
Always Riveting
As many of you have heard, Bucks defenseman Adam Rivet (who is not officially signed for the 2008-09 season but has been hanging around Laredo for some reason or another...) rescued two people as a result of two seperate incidents in Puerto Vallarto, Mexico, last week.
The Bucks released the news of Rivet's rescue efforts, along with some quotes from Rivet and Coach Terry Ruskowski. You can read the full story by Bucks Director of Media Relations/Broadcasting Bryan Benway here.
Rivet was in Mexico to attend defensive partner Serge Dube's wedding. Truly an interesting turn of events...all those spin classes and other endurance exercises must pay off when swimming around the ocean for hours and running into people in distress. I know I'm a bit late in getting to this story, but I wasn't able to get to a computer after receiving the press release yesterday. Guess I'll have something to ask Adam about if he's around when training camp begins...
The Bucks released the news of Rivet's rescue efforts, along with some quotes from Rivet and Coach Terry Ruskowski. You can read the full story by Bucks Director of Media Relations/Broadcasting Bryan Benway here.
Rivet was in Mexico to attend defensive partner Serge Dube's wedding. Truly an interesting turn of events...all those spin classes and other endurance exercises must pay off when swimming around the ocean for hours and running into people in distress. I know I'm a bit late in getting to this story, but I wasn't able to get to a computer after receiving the press release yesterday. Guess I'll have something to ask Adam about if he's around when training camp begins...
Friday, July 11, 2008
Gilbert Story
Here is my story about Gilbert in today's Times. I apologize for the lack of fresh quotes, but I will try to talk to Ruskowski about him in the future.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Second Signing
The Bucks announced earlier today that defenseman Jeff Gilbert, a recent graduate of Division I Robert Morris University, will be a member of the team's 2008 training camp lineup. Gilbert joins goaltender Ryan Gibb on the official roster.
I will have a story about the signing in tomorrow's Times, but for now you can get more information from the release on the Bucks' website.
One stat that jumps out about Gilbert is the fact that nine of his 16 collegiate goals came on the power play. With the possibility of defensive special teams star Serge Dube retiring, gaining another d-man who can produce on the power play is definitely a good move for Laredo. I'll be sure to talk to coach about that for tomorrow's story.
UPDATE: Apparently Coach Ruskowski is flying from Mexico (assumably there to attend the aforementioned Dube's wedding) to Houston and is impossible to contact today. His plane isn't expected to land until 11 p.m. CST, which equals midnight in New Jersey (where I am currently), so I guess those quotes will have to wait.
I will have a story about the signing in tomorrow's Times, but for now you can get more information from the release on the Bucks' website.
One stat that jumps out about Gilbert is the fact that nine of his 16 collegiate goals came on the power play. With the possibility of defensive special teams star Serge Dube retiring, gaining another d-man who can produce on the power play is definitely a good move for Laredo. I'll be sure to talk to coach about that for tomorrow's story.
UPDATE: Apparently Coach Ruskowski is flying from Mexico (assumably there to attend the aforementioned Dube's wedding) to Houston and is impossible to contact today. His plane isn't expected to land until 11 p.m. CST, which equals midnight in New Jersey (where I am currently), so I guess those quotes will have to wait.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Latest Transactions
The Wichita Thunder announced the re-signing of forward Mike Batovanja today, leaving five teams who have yet to reveal a player for the 2008-09 season: the Amarillo Gorillas, Arizona Sundogs, Colorado Eagles, Corpus Christi IceRays and Mississippi RiverKings. The IceRays are also the only team without a coach for their upcoming campaign.
Laredo will announce their second player signing later in the week; check back here for more information on that news.
As always, the complete CHL off-season transaction list can be found here.
For those of you interested, here is a similar list for the NHL. Wonder how Vinny feels about his team looking for so much veteran leadership from actual veterans....
Laredo will announce their second player signing later in the week; check back here for more information on that news.
As always, the complete CHL off-season transaction list can be found here.
For those of you interested, here is a similar list for the NHL. Wonder how Vinny feels about his team looking for so much veteran leadership from actual veterans....
More About the Charity Game
Rio Grande Killer Bees Broadcaster/Media Director Rich Bocchini, who will apparently be a guest referee in the July 15 charity game, has a lot more information about the game and the other charity events that will precede it on the Killer Bees Buzz Blog.
The Bucks also issued a release about the game, with some quotes from 2007-08 CHL MVP Jeff Bes, which can be found on the team website.
The Bucks also issued a release about the game, with some quotes from 2007-08 CHL MVP Jeff Bes, which can be found on the team website.
Friday, July 4, 2008
RGV Charity Game
Former Killer Bee Jason Cirone will be hosting a charity hockey game on Tuesday, July 15, at the RGV Ice Center in McAllen. The game will begin at 7:30 p.m., with a jersey auction to follow and proceeds benefiting Driscoll Children's Hospital and the McCarty Cancer Foundation.
As the latter charity suggests, four-time Stanley Cup winner Darren McCarty will be the star of the show, while plenty of local CHL favorites have also been tabbed to play in the game.
2007-08 Bucks Igor Agarunov, Jeff Bes, Serge Dube, Adam Rivet and Steve Weidlich will join Travis Banga, Bees GM Grant Buckborough, Cirone, IceRays GM Pat Dunn, Steve Dykstra, McCarty, Dennis Maxwell, Justin Quenneville, Rob Voltera, and Stephan Vossberg in the lineups.
Bees owner Troy Nelson will coach one team, while The Monitor's Brian Sandalow and Greg Rajan of the Corpus Christi Caller-Times will be behind the bench for the other.
I will sadly be out of town at the time, but if anyone is interested in attending, you can find more information on the RGV Youth Hockey site.
As the latter charity suggests, four-time Stanley Cup winner Darren McCarty will be the star of the show, while plenty of local CHL favorites have also been tabbed to play in the game.
2007-08 Bucks Igor Agarunov, Jeff Bes, Serge Dube, Adam Rivet and Steve Weidlich will join Travis Banga, Bees GM Grant Buckborough, Cirone, IceRays GM Pat Dunn, Steve Dykstra, McCarty, Dennis Maxwell, Justin Quenneville, Rob Voltera, and Stephan Vossberg in the lineups.
Bees owner Troy Nelson will coach one team, while The Monitor's Brian Sandalow and Greg Rajan of the Corpus Christi Caller-Times will be behind the bench for the other.
I will sadly be out of town at the time, but if anyone is interested in attending, you can find more information on the RGV Youth Hockey site.
Gibb Story
Here's my story about Gibb in today's Times.
Of course, Ruskowski had nothing but good things to say about the young goaltender, but he did admit he would like someone more experienced to fill the team's primary goalie spot. However, that doesn't necessarily mean he is going after anyone who has already played in the CHL.
I know rumors have been flying about Dustin Traylen and John Ceci, especially now that Pro-8 has claimed to know Traylen will not return to Laredo for the upcoming season. I'm pretty sure that is true, but I'm also pretty sure there is no factual evidence to support that claim as of yet. As far as Ceci, I guess only time will tell, but Ruskowski liked the kid, and he had a few really big wins for the Bucks in the playoffs.
Of course, Ruskowski brought four goaltenders into training camp last season and only two made it out, so we'll see what happens...
Of course, Ruskowski had nothing but good things to say about the young goaltender, but he did admit he would like someone more experienced to fill the team's primary goalie spot. However, that doesn't necessarily mean he is going after anyone who has already played in the CHL.
I know rumors have been flying about Dustin Traylen and John Ceci, especially now that Pro-8 has claimed to know Traylen will not return to Laredo for the upcoming season. I'm pretty sure that is true, but I'm also pretty sure there is no factual evidence to support that claim as of yet. As far as Ceci, I guess only time will tell, but Ruskowski liked the kid, and he had a few really big wins for the Bucks in the playoffs.
Of course, Ruskowski brought four goaltenders into training camp last season and only two made it out, so we'll see what happens...
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Making It Official
The Bucks have officially announced their first signing for the 2008-09 season, and the honors go to goaltender Ryan Gibb, the subject of my previous two blog posts.
Gibb, who was in his second year at Queen's University in Ontario, opted to leave the Golden Gaels for a chance in the pros following an MVP season.
Last season, Gibb put up a .929 save percentage with a goals-against average of 2.86 and an 11-7 record to earn the Ontario University Athletics East Most Valuable Player award and a first-team All-Star spot.
In 2007, he was named the OUA East Rookie of the Year and a second-team All-Star.
Gibb, who turned 23 just four days ago, is 5-foot-11, 195 pounds and "plays big in net."
I'll have more on this after I talk to coach/GM Terry Ruskowski later in the day, but for now, here's a link to the release on the Bucks website and his player profile from Queen's. And, if you're interested, here's a photo gallery from when he played with the Oshawa Generals (OHL).
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In other news around the league, the Mississippi RiverKings have selected former Youngstown Steelhounds coach Kevin Kaminski as their leader for at least the 2008-09 season. Kaminski, who had a 16-year career as a player, coached the Steelhounds to a 73-40-15 record in two seasons with the team, making the playoffs in both. He was the only coach Youngstown had during its two-year stint in the CHL.
Of course, there have been signings galore in both the CHL and NHL lately. Here's the link to the CHL transactions list again, and here's one to follow all the NHL free agent signings. Guess Malkin is safe after all, but Hossa not so much...
Gibb, who was in his second year at Queen's University in Ontario, opted to leave the Golden Gaels for a chance in the pros following an MVP season.
Last season, Gibb put up a .929 save percentage with a goals-against average of 2.86 and an 11-7 record to earn the Ontario University Athletics East Most Valuable Player award and a first-team All-Star spot.
In 2007, he was named the OUA East Rookie of the Year and a second-team All-Star.
Gibb, who turned 23 just four days ago, is 5-foot-11, 195 pounds and "plays big in net."
I'll have more on this after I talk to coach/GM Terry Ruskowski later in the day, but for now, here's a link to the release on the Bucks website and his player profile from Queen's. And, if you're interested, here's a photo gallery from when he played with the Oshawa Generals (OHL).
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In other news around the league, the Mississippi RiverKings have selected former Youngstown Steelhounds coach Kevin Kaminski as their leader for at least the 2008-09 season. Kaminski, who had a 16-year career as a player, coached the Steelhounds to a 73-40-15 record in two seasons with the team, making the playoffs in both. He was the only coach Youngstown had during its two-year stint in the CHL.
Of course, there have been signings galore in both the CHL and NHL lately. Here's the link to the CHL transactions list again, and here's one to follow all the NHL free agent signings. Guess Malkin is safe after all, but Hossa not so much...
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
More on Gibb
This story, from the Queen's University Journal, gives a few more details on Gibb's signing:
Hockey Player Becomes a Young Buck
Ryan Gibb signs with the Central Hockey League's Laredo Bucks
By Amrit Ahluwalia, Assistant Sports Editor
Hockey Player Becomes a Young Buck
Ryan Gibb signs with the Central Hockey League's Laredo Bucks
By Amrit Ahluwalia, Assistant Sports Editor
Following in the path of his Queen’s teammate Brady Olsen, Gaels star goaltender Ryan Gibb is headed to the Central Hockey League.
After playing out just two of his five years of Canadian Interuniversity Sport eligibility, Gibb signed a professional contract with the Laredo Bucks in Texas.
Gibb said he relishes the chance to play in a professional league.
“The opportunity presented itself to play more hockey in a more challenging league so I just jumped on it,” he said.
Earning playing time in Laredo will be a challenge in itself for Gibb. The Bucks have three goaltenders in their roster already, among them their own star goaltender in 27-year-old Dustin Traylen, who is also coming off a career season as a Central Hockey League all-star and runner up for the league’s Most Outstanding Goalie award last season.
Gibb said he is looking forward to the opportunity to prove himself, though, and feels he has a chance to earn the starting spot.
“I’m going to give it my best shot,” he said. “Last year is last year. It’s a new year at the beginning of the year and I’ll be pushing hard for the start.”
Gibb has come off a spectacular season, leading the CIS with a save percentage of 0.929 and a goals-against-average of 2.86. He guided the Gaels to the OUA Mid-East Division championship and picked up the OUA East Most Outstanding Player award in the process. In his first year with the Gaels in 2007, he won the OUA Rookie of the Year award. During his two years backstopping Queen’s, Gibb played in 46 games, recording a goals-against-average of 3.12, two shutouts and a 0.922 save percentage.
Gibb hasn’t ruled out returning to CIS competition if his professional career doesn’t work out, though.
“Nothing’s ever out of the question,” he said. “I’ll take it season by season and see how far I can take this.”
Terry Ruskowski, the Bucks’ general manager and head coach, said he signed Gibb because he may not be able to bring back the team’s other goalies.
“There’s no guarantee any of them are returning,” Ruskowski said. “I haven’t begun the process to re-sign any of them, and they could leave so we wanted to get some good young goalies down here.”
He also gave some insight into how a team from Texas got wind of a goaltender based in Kingston, Ontario.
“I’ve got scouts in the area,” he said. “He’s pretty impressive. My scouts said he was a character kid and that he could play goal, and those are things I look for.”
Rukowski said Gibb has a good shot at success with the Bucks.
“I think it is up to him. If he shows his stuff the way he can in training camp, he’ll still be here. He has a very good chance of making my team and getting the start.”
Queen’s head coach Brett Gibson said he expected this to happen and prepared for the loss of Gibb early.
“We’ve got Brady Morrison ready to step in right where Ryan was last year,” he said.
“Gibb was a great player but it has no impact [on the team strategy]. He couldn’t do much more at this level. His goal in life is to be a pro, so now it’s the time for him to go.”
Gibson said he thinks Gibb’s future is in the pros.
“Ryan’s done and moving on to another time in his life,” he said. “The last two years have been the best two years of his career. I wish him all the best and know he’ll be great in Laredo.”
Possible New Goalie
Apparently the Bucks' efforts to keep the public (and the media) from finding out who they've signed for the upcoming season are paying off. This information was released by the Queen's University Golden Gael's ice hockey program on June 5:
HOCKEY (M): GAELS GIBB SIGNS PROFESSIONAL CONTRACT
As far as I knew, coach/general manager Terry Ruskowski was not actually signing players until after the CHL conference ended June 14, but I guess anything is possible. I will try to look into this situation, but everyone with the Bucks has been pretty tight-lipped about information released by any other source.
In other news, the Bucks should start officially announcing player signings and re-signings later this week, and they say there is still a possibility of Simoes returning.
HOCKEY (M): GAELS GIBB SIGNS PROFESSIONAL CONTRACT
Kingston, Ont. – Gaels goaltender Ryan Gibb of Scarborough, Ont. has elected to forgo his final three years of eligibility and sign a professional contract with the Laredo Bucks based in Texas of the Central Hockey League.
Last season, the 23-year old Gibb was a key contributor to the Gaels earning the OUA East Most Valuable Player award and helping Queen’s to its best finish since 1985. Gibb was one of the best goalies in country, leading the CIS with a save percentage of 93% and captured 11 of the Gaels 13 victories. He also had an outstanding 2.86 goals against average.
Gibb has been pursuing a degree in Health Science and was in his second year of eligibility with the team. In 2007 Gibb caught the attention of the nation by claiming the OUA Rookie of the Year honours.
He ends his Queen’s hockey career having played in 46 games securing a 3.12 GAA with two shut-outs. During his 46 appearances he averaged almost 38 shots against per game with a .922 save percentage.
“When the opportunity presented itself, I couldn’t pass it up. It’s been an honour to wear the Gaels uniform and be a part of helping build a stronger hockey program,” said Gibb. “I am going to miss my teammates, but I’m excited to take a shot playing professionally.”
Head Coach Brett Gibson considered this a bitter-sweet moment for his team and the Gaels hockey program.
“It’s extremely hard to lose a player the calibre of Ryan Gibb,” said Gibson. “He was a key component of our team and we enjoyed success because of his impact play. Without question he will be missed, but this is a highlight for our program. Not only have we seen some accolades within the league, but our program has been noticed by some professional teams – that’s a positive.
In late April, Gaels assistant captain Brady Olsen (Enterprise, Ont.) signed a professional contact with the Rapid City Rush in the ‘AA’ Pro Central Hockey League in South Dakota. Olsen had just earned the OUA’s Most Sportsmanlike Player award.
With Gibb turning professional, starting goaltending duties will fall on the shoulders of Brady Morrison (Thamesville, Ont.) who will be entering his second season with Queen’s in the fall.
“We had the luxury last season with having two phenomenal goalies,” said Gibson. “Brady is more than capable of stepping up to this challenge and I know he’s excited to have the opportunity. He is an OHL calibre goaltender and he’s ready to be a big contributor to our future success.
Prior to joining the Gaels last season Morrison played four seasons in the OHL – two with the Kingston Frontenacs and then another two with the Ottawa 67’s.
As far as I knew, coach/general manager Terry Ruskowski was not actually signing players until after the CHL conference ended June 14, but I guess anything is possible. I will try to look into this situation, but everyone with the Bucks has been pretty tight-lipped about information released by any other source.
In other news, the Bucks should start officially announcing player signings and re-signings later this week, and they say there is still a possibility of Simoes returning.
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