It was not to be as Michigan Tech was swept by Denver 7-1 and 1-0. Denver ranked 2nd in the nation and tied for the WCHA title will move on to the WCHA final 5. The only hightlight for the Huskies came for Chris Conner as he nothced his 14th goal of the year and his 100th career point as a Husky in the Friday night's game.
MTU had a strong showing the second half of the year, along with the second of the two games this weekend. The only goal on the Saturday night game came at the 18:02 markof the third period and was the only of the game for both teams. MTU pulled Cam Ellsworth from the net after the goal was scored and were unable to get the tying goal. They had a few chances, including one off of the post with 2 seconds remaining, but it was not to be.
MTU will move to the off season and try to come out next year on the same note as they ended this one.
Saturday, March 12, 2005
Warriors downed in OT by Air Force
Wayne State's season came to an abrupt end last night as Air Force advanced in the College Hockey America tournament with a 4-3 overtime win over the Warriors in Grand Rapids, Minn.
Theo Zacour scored at 19:09 of the extra session after Brandon Merkosky had knotted the game at 3-all early in the third period. Andrew Ramsey scored the Falcons other two goals and Pete Foster earned the win in net with 29 saves.
Stavros Paskaris, Jason Baclig and Nate Higgins all scored for WSU (14-17-4) and Matt Kelly suffered the loss in goal, despite making 39 saves in the longest game in CHA history.
In today's semi-finals, Niagara, 5-1 winners over Robert Morris yesterday, faces Alabama-Huntsville at 4:35 p.m. and Air Force and first-seed Bemidji State tangle at 8:35 p.m. The latter will be a battle of brothers as Frank Serratore coaches the Falcons and Tom Serratore is behind the bench of the Beavers.
The CHA championship will be decided tomorrow night at 8:06 p.m.
Theo Zacour scored at 19:09 of the extra session after Brandon Merkosky had knotted the game at 3-all early in the third period. Andrew Ramsey scored the Falcons other two goals and Pete Foster earned the win in net with 29 saves.
Stavros Paskaris, Jason Baclig and Nate Higgins all scored for WSU (14-17-4) and Matt Kelly suffered the loss in goal, despite making 39 saves in the longest game in CHA history.
In today's semi-finals, Niagara, 5-1 winners over Robert Morris yesterday, faces Alabama-Huntsville at 4:35 p.m. and Air Force and first-seed Bemidji State tangle at 8:35 p.m. The latter will be a battle of brothers as Frank Serratore coaches the Falcons and Tom Serratore is behind the bench of the Beavers.
The CHA championship will be decided tomorrow night at 8:06 p.m.
WSU women honored at CHA banquet
Two Wayne State University women's hockey players were honored Friday evening at the College Hockey America tournament banquet for their outstanding performances during the 2004-05 season. Another five student-athletes were honored for their work in the classroom.
Senior center Kelly Zamora was named to the All-CHA First Team in voting of the league's head and assistant coaches. Zamora tied-for-sixth in conference scoring with 11 points on two goals and nine assists in 12 games.
Her nine assists were the third-highest total in the CHA. She finished in the top 10 in the conference in both power-play points and short-handed points.
Junior defenseman Sarah Campbell was voted to the All-CHA Second Team by conference coaches.
Campbell tied-for-eighth in overall assists with 14, which was the top mark for all league blueliners. Her 14 overall points was fourth among CHA defenseman.
Also recognized at the banquet were CHA All-Academic team selections -- Heidi Burns, Jessica Haydahl, Laura Monk, Peyton Patterson and Jessica Snelgrove.
A complete list of CHA honorees follows:
All-CHA FIRST TEAM
F- Teresa Marchese, Mercyhurst
F- Ashley Riggs, Niagara
F- Kelly Zamora, Wayne State
D- Ashley Pendleton, Mercyhurst
D- Michelle Bonello, Mercyhurst
G- Desi Clark, Mercyhurst
All-CHA SECOND TEAM
F- Samantha Shirley, Mercyhurst
F- Stefanie Bourbeau, Mercyhurst
F- Candice Moxley, Niagara
D- Sarah Campbell, Wayne State
D- Shannon Moulson, Niagara
G- Nikki Rudy, Niagara
CHA ALL-ROOKIE TEAM
F- Stephanie Jones, Mercyhurst
F- Ashley Riggs, Mercyhurst
F- Charde Hoyle-Levy, Niagara
D- Karrah Stephen, Quinnipiac
D- Shannon Moulson, Niagara
G- Nikki Rudy, Niagara
CHA PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Teresa Marchese, Mercyhurst
CHA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Ashley Riggs, Niagara
Senior center Kelly Zamora was named to the All-CHA First Team in voting of the league's head and assistant coaches. Zamora tied-for-sixth in conference scoring with 11 points on two goals and nine assists in 12 games.
Her nine assists were the third-highest total in the CHA. She finished in the top 10 in the conference in both power-play points and short-handed points.
Junior defenseman Sarah Campbell was voted to the All-CHA Second Team by conference coaches.
Campbell tied-for-eighth in overall assists with 14, which was the top mark for all league blueliners. Her 14 overall points was fourth among CHA defenseman.
Also recognized at the banquet were CHA All-Academic team selections -- Heidi Burns, Jessica Haydahl, Laura Monk, Peyton Patterson and Jessica Snelgrove.
A complete list of CHA honorees follows:
All-CHA FIRST TEAM
F- Teresa Marchese, Mercyhurst
F- Ashley Riggs, Niagara
F- Kelly Zamora, Wayne State
D- Ashley Pendleton, Mercyhurst
D- Michelle Bonello, Mercyhurst
G- Desi Clark, Mercyhurst
All-CHA SECOND TEAM
F- Samantha Shirley, Mercyhurst
F- Stefanie Bourbeau, Mercyhurst
F- Candice Moxley, Niagara
D- Sarah Campbell, Wayne State
D- Shannon Moulson, Niagara
G- Nikki Rudy, Niagara
CHA ALL-ROOKIE TEAM
F- Stephanie Jones, Mercyhurst
F- Ashley Riggs, Mercyhurst
F- Charde Hoyle-Levy, Niagara
D- Karrah Stephen, Quinnipiac
D- Shannon Moulson, Niagara
G- Nikki Rudy, Niagara
CHA PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Teresa Marchese, Mercyhurst
CHA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Ashley Riggs, Niagara
Friday, March 11, 2005
Wayne State pair honored at CHA banquet
Two Wayne State University men's hockey players were honored Thursday evening at the College Hockey America tournament banquet for their outstanding performances on the ice during the 2004-05 season. Another five individuals were honored for their work in the classroom.
Freshman center Stavros Paskaris was selected CHA Rookie of the Year in voting of the league's head coaches and assistants. Paskaris was also named to the conference's all-rookie team.
The top-scoring newcomer in the CHA with 20 points on six goals and 14 assists in 20 games, Paskaris finished tied-for-eighth among all players in scoring. He tied-for-third in league assists (14) and tied-for-eighth in league power-play points (9). His four conference power-play goals was tied-for-fifth.
Junior goaltender Matt Kelly was voted to the All-CHA Second Team by conference coaches.
Kelly finished third in goals-against average against league foes with a 2.22 mark despite playing the third-most minutes. He was also third in save percentage (.934) despite playing on a team that has just one senior on the roster.
Also recognized at the banquet were CHA All-Academic team selections -- Matt Boldt, Taylor Donohoe, Adam Drescher, Will Hooper and Mark Nebus.
A complete list of CHA honorees follows:
All-CHA FIRST TEAM
F- Andrew Murray, Bemidji State
F- Jared Ross, Alabama-Huntsville
F- Barret Ehgoetz, Niagara
D- Peter Jonsson, Bemidji State
D- Jeremy Schreiber, Alabama-Huntsville
G- Scott Munroe, Alabama-Huntsville
All-CHA SECOND TEAM
F- Bruce Mulherin, Alabama-Huntsville
F- Brendan Cook, Bemidji State
F- Ryan Gale, Niagara
D- Brian Gineo, Air Force
D- Jeff Winchester, Alabama-Huntsville
G- Matt Kelly, Wayne State
CHA ALL-ROOKIE TEAM
F- Eric Ehn, Air Force
F- Stavros Paskaris, Wayne State
F- Jace Buzek, Robert Morris
D- Chris Kaufman, Robert Morris
D- Matt Charbonneau, Air Force
G- Matt Climie, Bemidji State
CHA PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Andrew Murray, Bemidji State
CHA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Stavros Paskaris, Wayne State
Freshman center Stavros Paskaris was selected CHA Rookie of the Year in voting of the league's head coaches and assistants. Paskaris was also named to the conference's all-rookie team.
The top-scoring newcomer in the CHA with 20 points on six goals and 14 assists in 20 games, Paskaris finished tied-for-eighth among all players in scoring. He tied-for-third in league assists (14) and tied-for-eighth in league power-play points (9). His four conference power-play goals was tied-for-fifth.
Junior goaltender Matt Kelly was voted to the All-CHA Second Team by conference coaches.
Kelly finished third in goals-against average against league foes with a 2.22 mark despite playing the third-most minutes. He was also third in save percentage (.934) despite playing on a team that has just one senior on the roster.
Also recognized at the banquet were CHA All-Academic team selections -- Matt Boldt, Taylor Donohoe, Adam Drescher, Will Hooper and Mark Nebus.
A complete list of CHA honorees follows:
All-CHA FIRST TEAM
F- Andrew Murray, Bemidji State
F- Jared Ross, Alabama-Huntsville
F- Barret Ehgoetz, Niagara
D- Peter Jonsson, Bemidji State
D- Jeremy Schreiber, Alabama-Huntsville
G- Scott Munroe, Alabama-Huntsville
All-CHA SECOND TEAM
F- Bruce Mulherin, Alabama-Huntsville
F- Brendan Cook, Bemidji State
F- Ryan Gale, Niagara
D- Brian Gineo, Air Force
D- Jeff Winchester, Alabama-Huntsville
G- Matt Kelly, Wayne State
CHA ALL-ROOKIE TEAM
F- Eric Ehn, Air Force
F- Stavros Paskaris, Wayne State
F- Jace Buzek, Robert Morris
D- Chris Kaufman, Robert Morris
D- Matt Charbonneau, Air Force
G- Matt Climie, Bemidji State
CHA PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Andrew Murray, Bemidji State
CHA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Stavros Paskaris, Wayne State
Thursday, March 10, 2005
More honors for Michigan icers
Northern Michigan and Michigan each had a pair of players selected to the Central Collegiate Hockey Association first-team All-conference squad. Michigan forwards T.J. Hensick (Brighton) and Jeff Tambellini made the team, as did Northern Michigan defender Nathan Oystrick and goaltender Tuomas Tarkki. Nebraska-Omaha forward Scott Parse (Portage) and Miami defenseman Andy Green (Trenton) also made the team. ... Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute sophomore forward Julie Aho (Ann Arbor) was named to the first-team All-Eastern College Athletic Conference. Aho scored 22 goals and had 35 points this season.
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
Michigan players earn weekly honors
Northern Michigan forward Mike Santorelli was named to the CCHA all-rookie team. He has 14 goals in conference play. ... Ferris State senior forward Derek Nesbitt is the CCHA offensive player of the week. He had a hat trick and two assists in a 5-2 win over Western Michigan. Michigan senior Eric Werner (two assists, plus-four against Bowling Green) is the defensive player of the week and Michigan State forward Jim McKenzie (two goals against Notre Dame) is the rookie of the week. ... Two Wayne State players took top weekly honors in College Hockey America. Junior goalie Matt Kelly, who had his first shutout in two years in a 4-0 win over Alabama-Huntsville, was honored on defense, while right wing Tylor Michel (two goals, two assists) is the co-rookie of the week.
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
CCHA Playoff Preview
The road to the Joe (and ultimately Columbus, site of this year’s Frozen Four) begins this weekend, as the twelve teams of the CCHA get their playoff game-faces on.
#1 Michigan Wolverines (26-7-3, 23-3-2 CCHA) vs. #12 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (5-25-6, 3-20-5 CCHA)
Game 1- Friday, 7:35 PM Yost Arena - Ann Arbor, MI
Game 2- Saturday, 7:35 PM Yost Arena - Ann Arbor, MI
Game 3, if needed – Sunday, 7:35 PM Yost Arena – Ann Arbor, MI
The Maize and Blue, ranked first in the conference and fourth nationally, had their way with the Irish this season, winning all four match-ups by a combined scored of 29-6. Michigan leads the all-time series, 59-41-5. Michigan will be led by offensive juggernauts T.J. Hensick and Jeff Tambellini (both of whom had multi-point games against the Irish earlier this season) and backstopped by dazzling goalie Al Montoya will. Leading scorers Cory McLean and Wes O’Neil will look to generate scoring opportunities for the Irish.
#2 Ohio State Buckeyes (24-8-4, 21-5-2 CCHA) vs. #10 Ferris State Bulldogs (12-20-4, 7-17-4 CCHA)
Game 1 – Friday, 7:05 PM Value City Arena – Columbus, OH
Game 2 – Saturday, 7:05 PM Value City Arena – Columbus, OH
Game 3, if needed – Sunday, 7:05 PM Value City Arena – Columbus, OH
The Buckeyes and the Bulldogs met four times this season, with the Buckeyes claiming three of the wins. However, one of these wins and the lone Bulldogs victory came in overtime, foreshadowing an exciting playoff series. Jeff Legue and Derek Nesbitt are players to watch from Ferris; Rod Pelley and Tom Fristche will likely be offensive threats for the Buckeyes. Fritsche, holding an impressive +18 +/- ranking this season, was recently named to the CCHA All-Rookie Team.
#3 Northern Michigan Wildcats (20-9-7, 17-7-4 CCHA) vs. #10 Western Michigan Broncos (13-19-2, 8-18-2 CCHA)
Game 1 – Friday, 7:35 PM Berry Events Center – Marquette, MI
Game 2 – Saturday, 7:35 PM Berry Events Center – Marquette, MI
Game 3, if needed – Sunday, 7:35 Berry Events Center – Marquette, MI
Earlier this month, these teams skated to a tie and a Northern win. NMU is bolstered by a stellar defense, including conference-leading goalie Tuomas Tarkki. Darin Oliver and Andrew Contois will lead the Wildcats offensive efforts. The Wildcats historically have dominated the Broncos: they lead the all-time series 34-15-4 with a 4-2-1 advantage in post-season play. The Broncos, who have dropped eight straight CCHA playoff series, will look to Brent Walton and Vince Bellissimo to spark an upset.
#4 Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks (17-15-4, 13-11-4 CCHA) vs. #9 Lake Superior State Lakers (9-20-7, 8-14-6 CCHA)
Game 1 – Friday, 7:05 Qwest Center – Omaha, NE
Game 2 – Saturday, 7:05 Qwest Center – Omaha, NE
Game 3, if needed – Sunday, 7:05 Qwest Center – Omaha, NE
The Mavericks were 2-1-1 against the Lakers this season, and lead the all-time series 8-5-1. This series marks the first time UNO has had home-ice advantage in the playoffs since 2002. Players to watch: Mavericks Scott Parse, Bill Thomas, and Joe Grimaldi (the latter two were just named to the CCHA All-Rookie team), and Lakers Jon Booras and Nathan Ward.
#5 Bowling Green Falcons (16-14-4, 13-12-3 CCHA) vs. #8 Alaska-Fairbanks Nanooks (13-15-4, 11-14-3 CCHA)
Game 1 – Friday, 7:00 Bowling Green Ice Arena – Bowling Green, OH
Game 2 – Saturday, 7:00 Bowling Green Ice Arena – Bowling Green, OH
Game 3, if needed – Sunday 7:00 Bowling Green Ice Arena – Bowling Green, OH
The Falcons and the Nanooks met twice this season; the Falcons swept the series to the tune of a 12-3 combined score. All-CCHA rookie Michael Hodgson, Jonathan Matsumoto, and James Unger will look to take care of business for the Falcons. Curtis Fraser, Kyle Greentree, and Kelly Czuy will attempt to The series features a showdown between two stellar goaltenders: Falcon Jordan Sigalet, an all-CCHA first-team selection last year; and Nanook Wylie Rogers, this year’s CCHA all-rookie goalie.
#6 Michigan State Spartans (17-15-4, 12-13-3 CCHA) vs. #7 Miami-Ohio Redhawks (15-16-5, 11-13-4 CCHA)
Game 1 – Friday, 7:05 Munn Arena – East Lansing, MI
Game 2 – Saturday, 7:05 Munn Arena – East Lansing, MI
Game 3, if needed – Sunday, 7:05 Munn Arena – East Lansing, MI
With a series of wins over Notre Dame last weekend, Michigan State nabbed the final home playoff site. The Spartans and Redhawks split their series at Munn this year. MSU leads the all-time series, 59-15-5. Miami-Ohio, having only amassed a 2-13 road record in their entire playoff history, will look for contributions from leading scorers Matt Christie, Andy Greene, Todd Grant, and Marty Guerin. The Redhawks will be looking to capitalize on Michigan State’s offensive disadvantage—star sophomore A.J. Thelen was dismissed from the team earlier this week. The rest of the Spartans, notably captain Jim Slater and sophomore Drew Miller, will have to work hard to counter the hole left by Thelen’s departure.
The winners of each series will move onto the CCHA Super Six Tournament, to be held at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit on March 17-19.
#1 Michigan Wolverines (26-7-3, 23-3-2 CCHA) vs. #12 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (5-25-6, 3-20-5 CCHA)
Game 1- Friday, 7:35 PM Yost Arena - Ann Arbor, MI
Game 2- Saturday, 7:35 PM Yost Arena - Ann Arbor, MI
Game 3, if needed – Sunday, 7:35 PM Yost Arena – Ann Arbor, MI
The Maize and Blue, ranked first in the conference and fourth nationally, had their way with the Irish this season, winning all four match-ups by a combined scored of 29-6. Michigan leads the all-time series, 59-41-5. Michigan will be led by offensive juggernauts T.J. Hensick and Jeff Tambellini (both of whom had multi-point games against the Irish earlier this season) and backstopped by dazzling goalie Al Montoya will. Leading scorers Cory McLean and Wes O’Neil will look to generate scoring opportunities for the Irish.
#2 Ohio State Buckeyes (24-8-4, 21-5-2 CCHA) vs. #10 Ferris State Bulldogs (12-20-4, 7-17-4 CCHA)
Game 1 – Friday, 7:05 PM Value City Arena – Columbus, OH
Game 2 – Saturday, 7:05 PM Value City Arena – Columbus, OH
Game 3, if needed – Sunday, 7:05 PM Value City Arena – Columbus, OH
The Buckeyes and the Bulldogs met four times this season, with the Buckeyes claiming three of the wins. However, one of these wins and the lone Bulldogs victory came in overtime, foreshadowing an exciting playoff series. Jeff Legue and Derek Nesbitt are players to watch from Ferris; Rod Pelley and Tom Fristche will likely be offensive threats for the Buckeyes. Fritsche, holding an impressive +18 +/- ranking this season, was recently named to the CCHA All-Rookie Team.
#3 Northern Michigan Wildcats (20-9-7, 17-7-4 CCHA) vs. #10 Western Michigan Broncos (13-19-2, 8-18-2 CCHA)
Game 1 – Friday, 7:35 PM Berry Events Center – Marquette, MI
Game 2 – Saturday, 7:35 PM Berry Events Center – Marquette, MI
Game 3, if needed – Sunday, 7:35 Berry Events Center – Marquette, MI
Earlier this month, these teams skated to a tie and a Northern win. NMU is bolstered by a stellar defense, including conference-leading goalie Tuomas Tarkki. Darin Oliver and Andrew Contois will lead the Wildcats offensive efforts. The Wildcats historically have dominated the Broncos: they lead the all-time series 34-15-4 with a 4-2-1 advantage in post-season play. The Broncos, who have dropped eight straight CCHA playoff series, will look to Brent Walton and Vince Bellissimo to spark an upset.
#4 Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks (17-15-4, 13-11-4 CCHA) vs. #9 Lake Superior State Lakers (9-20-7, 8-14-6 CCHA)
Game 1 – Friday, 7:05 Qwest Center – Omaha, NE
Game 2 – Saturday, 7:05 Qwest Center – Omaha, NE
Game 3, if needed – Sunday, 7:05 Qwest Center – Omaha, NE
The Mavericks were 2-1-1 against the Lakers this season, and lead the all-time series 8-5-1. This series marks the first time UNO has had home-ice advantage in the playoffs since 2002. Players to watch: Mavericks Scott Parse, Bill Thomas, and Joe Grimaldi (the latter two were just named to the CCHA All-Rookie team), and Lakers Jon Booras and Nathan Ward.
#5 Bowling Green Falcons (16-14-4, 13-12-3 CCHA) vs. #8 Alaska-Fairbanks Nanooks (13-15-4, 11-14-3 CCHA)
Game 1 – Friday, 7:00 Bowling Green Ice Arena – Bowling Green, OH
Game 2 – Saturday, 7:00 Bowling Green Ice Arena – Bowling Green, OH
Game 3, if needed – Sunday 7:00 Bowling Green Ice Arena – Bowling Green, OH
The Falcons and the Nanooks met twice this season; the Falcons swept the series to the tune of a 12-3 combined score. All-CCHA rookie Michael Hodgson, Jonathan Matsumoto, and James Unger will look to take care of business for the Falcons. Curtis Fraser, Kyle Greentree, and Kelly Czuy will attempt to The series features a showdown between two stellar goaltenders: Falcon Jordan Sigalet, an all-CCHA first-team selection last year; and Nanook Wylie Rogers, this year’s CCHA all-rookie goalie.
#6 Michigan State Spartans (17-15-4, 12-13-3 CCHA) vs. #7 Miami-Ohio Redhawks (15-16-5, 11-13-4 CCHA)
Game 1 – Friday, 7:05 Munn Arena – East Lansing, MI
Game 2 – Saturday, 7:05 Munn Arena – East Lansing, MI
Game 3, if needed – Sunday, 7:05 Munn Arena – East Lansing, MI
With a series of wins over Notre Dame last weekend, Michigan State nabbed the final home playoff site. The Spartans and Redhawks split their series at Munn this year. MSU leads the all-time series, 59-15-5. Miami-Ohio, having only amassed a 2-13 road record in their entire playoff history, will look for contributions from leading scorers Matt Christie, Andy Greene, Todd Grant, and Marty Guerin. The Redhawks will be looking to capitalize on Michigan State’s offensive disadvantage—star sophomore A.J. Thelen was dismissed from the team earlier this week. The rest of the Spartans, notably captain Jim Slater and sophomore Drew Miller, will have to work hard to counter the hole left by Thelen’s departure.
The winners of each series will move onto the CCHA Super Six Tournament, to be held at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit on March 17-19.
CHA Tournament Preview
The College Hockey America Tournament opens Friday afternoon in Grand Rapids, Minn., at the IRA Civic Center. All six CHA teams – Bemidji State, Alabama-Huntsville, Niagara, Wayne State, Air Force and Robert Morris – will participate with BSU and UAH getting byes into the semifinals based on their 1-2 finish in the regular season.
In the first quarterfinal Friday at 4:35 p.m., Niagara, the third seed, plays last-place Robert Morris. The Purple Eagles (14-18-2, 9-9-2 CHA) won the tournament last year while the Colonials (8-20-4, 4-14-2 CHA) are a first-year program. During the regular season, NU went 1-2-1 versus Robert Morris with their lone win coming last Saturday at home.
Niagara Key Players: Forwards Barret Ehgoetz, Kris Wiebe and Ryan Gale, defensemen Andrew Lackner and Pat Oliveto and goalie Jeff Van Nynatten
Robert Morris Key Players: Goalie Christian Boucher, forwards Kurt Wright, Doug Conley, a former Purple Eagle, and Joe Federoff and defenseman Jeff Gilbert
SEASON SERIES
Jan. 28 at RMU – NU 4, RMU 4
Jan. 29 at RMU – RMU 6, NU 0
March 4 at NU – RMU 3, NU 2
March 5 at NU – NU 3, RMU 1
The second quarterfinal pits fourth-seeded Wayne State (14-16-4, 7-9-4 CHA) against Air Force (13-18-3, 5-14-1 CHA) at 8:35 p.m. The Warriors won the CHA tournament in 2001, 2002 and 2003 and made it to the semifinals last year before falling to eventual champion Niagara. WSU and Air Force last met Feb. 26-27 in Plymouth with the Warriors getting a win and a tie. Air Force won the first game this year between the two teams back on Dec. 3, but finished 1-2-1 against the Detroiters.
Wayne State Key Players: Forwards Jason Bloomingburg, Adam Krug and Tylor Michel, defensemen Greg Poupard and Steve Kovalchik and goalie Matt Kelly
Air Force Key Players: Goalie Pete Foster, forwards Brandon Merkosky, Andrew Ramsey and Eric Ehn and defensemen Brian Gineo and Brooks Turnquist
SEASON SERIES
Dec. 3 at AFA – AFA 2, WSU 1
Dec. 4 at AFA – WSU 3, AFA 2
Feb. 26 at WSU – WSU 5, AFA 1
Feb. 27 at WSU – AFA 3, WSU 3
The Niagara-Robert Morris winner plays Alabama-Huntsville (17-9-4, 14-5-1 CHA) at 4:35 p.m. on Saturday while Bemidji State (21-12-1, 16-4-0 CHA), without captain and leading scorer Andrew Murray, out with a fractured collarbone, plays the Wayne State-Air Force winner at 8:35 p.m.
The championship game will be played on Sunday at 8:05 p.m.
Alabama-Huntsville Key Players: Forwards Jared Ross, Bruce Mulherin and Craig Bushey, defensemen Jeremy Schreiber and Jeff Winchester and goalie Scott Munroe
Bemidji State Key Players: Forwards Brendan Cook, Luke Erickson, Rob Sirianni and Jean-Guy Gervais, defensemen John Haider and Peter Jonsson and goalies Layne Sedevie and Matt Climie
MICHIGAN CONNECTION
A total of 19 Michigan natives are on CHA rosters:
Air Force
Eric Ehn, F, Dexter
Pete Foster, G, Canton
Josh Schaffer, F, South Lyon
Alabama-Huntsville
Todd Bentley, LW, Livonia
Keith Rowe, LW, Livonia
Niagara
Trevor Mallon, D, Grosse Pointe Woods
Marc Norrington, F, Flint
Wayne State
Jason Bloomingburg, F, Canton
Kevin Bonikowski, G, Macomb
A.J. Bozoian, D, Brownstown
Mark Cannon, F, River Rouge
Adam Drescher, D, Belleville
Steve Kovalchik, D, Riverview
Adam Krug, F, Livonia
John May, F, Livonia
Mark Nebus, F, South Lyon
Stavros Paskaris, F, Dearborn
Greg Poupard, D, Jackson
Ryan Wright, F, Brownstown
In the first quarterfinal Friday at 4:35 p.m., Niagara, the third seed, plays last-place Robert Morris. The Purple Eagles (14-18-2, 9-9-2 CHA) won the tournament last year while the Colonials (8-20-4, 4-14-2 CHA) are a first-year program. During the regular season, NU went 1-2-1 versus Robert Morris with their lone win coming last Saturday at home.
Niagara Key Players: Forwards Barret Ehgoetz, Kris Wiebe and Ryan Gale, defensemen Andrew Lackner and Pat Oliveto and goalie Jeff Van Nynatten
Robert Morris Key Players: Goalie Christian Boucher, forwards Kurt Wright, Doug Conley, a former Purple Eagle, and Joe Federoff and defenseman Jeff Gilbert
SEASON SERIES
Jan. 28 at RMU – NU 4, RMU 4
Jan. 29 at RMU – RMU 6, NU 0
March 4 at NU – RMU 3, NU 2
March 5 at NU – NU 3, RMU 1
The second quarterfinal pits fourth-seeded Wayne State (14-16-4, 7-9-4 CHA) against Air Force (13-18-3, 5-14-1 CHA) at 8:35 p.m. The Warriors won the CHA tournament in 2001, 2002 and 2003 and made it to the semifinals last year before falling to eventual champion Niagara. WSU and Air Force last met Feb. 26-27 in Plymouth with the Warriors getting a win and a tie. Air Force won the first game this year between the two teams back on Dec. 3, but finished 1-2-1 against the Detroiters.
Wayne State Key Players: Forwards Jason Bloomingburg, Adam Krug and Tylor Michel, defensemen Greg Poupard and Steve Kovalchik and goalie Matt Kelly
Air Force Key Players: Goalie Pete Foster, forwards Brandon Merkosky, Andrew Ramsey and Eric Ehn and defensemen Brian Gineo and Brooks Turnquist
SEASON SERIES
Dec. 3 at AFA – AFA 2, WSU 1
Dec. 4 at AFA – WSU 3, AFA 2
Feb. 26 at WSU – WSU 5, AFA 1
Feb. 27 at WSU – AFA 3, WSU 3
The Niagara-Robert Morris winner plays Alabama-Huntsville (17-9-4, 14-5-1 CHA) at 4:35 p.m. on Saturday while Bemidji State (21-12-1, 16-4-0 CHA), without captain and leading scorer Andrew Murray, out with a fractured collarbone, plays the Wayne State-Air Force winner at 8:35 p.m.
The championship game will be played on Sunday at 8:05 p.m.
Alabama-Huntsville Key Players: Forwards Jared Ross, Bruce Mulherin and Craig Bushey, defensemen Jeremy Schreiber and Jeff Winchester and goalie Scott Munroe
Bemidji State Key Players: Forwards Brendan Cook, Luke Erickson, Rob Sirianni and Jean-Guy Gervais, defensemen John Haider and Peter Jonsson and goalies Layne Sedevie and Matt Climie
MICHIGAN CONNECTION
A total of 19 Michigan natives are on CHA rosters:
Air Force
Eric Ehn, F, Dexter
Pete Foster, G, Canton
Josh Schaffer, F, South Lyon
Alabama-Huntsville
Todd Bentley, LW, Livonia
Keith Rowe, LW, Livonia
Niagara
Trevor Mallon, D, Grosse Pointe Woods
Marc Norrington, F, Flint
Wayne State
Jason Bloomingburg, F, Canton
Kevin Bonikowski, G, Macomb
A.J. Bozoian, D, Brownstown
Mark Cannon, F, River Rouge
Adam Drescher, D, Belleville
Steve Kovalchik, D, Riverview
Adam Krug, F, Livonia
John May, F, Livonia
Mark Nebus, F, South Lyon
Stavros Paskaris, F, Dearborn
Greg Poupard, D, Jackson
Ryan Wright, F, Brownstown
Spartans hand out awards
Michigan State hockey handed out its 2004-05 post-season awards Monday at its annual Spartan Hockey Awards Banquet held at the Holiday Inn South in Lansing. Award winners are as follows:
Spartan Fitness Award: David Booth (Jr., Washington, Mich.)
Blue Line President's Award: Rod Tocco (Jr., St. Clair Shores, Mich.)
Outstanding Rookie: Chris Mueller (Fr., West Seneca, N.Y.)
Most Improved Player: Drew Miller (So., East Lansing, Mich.)
Dr. John Downs Outstanding Defensive Player Award: Corey Potter (Jr., Mason, Mich.)
Goofus Award: Zach McClellan (Fr., Frankenmuth, Mich.)
Outstanding Offensive Player Award: Colton Fretter (Jr., Harrow, Ont.)
Bill Burgess Outstanding Senior Award: Jim Slater (Sr., Lapeer, Mich.)
Amo Bessone Award: Jim Slater (Sr., Lapeer, Mich.)
Most Valuable Player: Jim Slater (Sr., Lapeer, Mich.)
Distinguished Alumni Award: Don McSween
Descriptions of the awards can be found here.
Spartan Fitness Award: David Booth (Jr., Washington, Mich.)
Blue Line President's Award: Rod Tocco (Jr., St. Clair Shores, Mich.)
Outstanding Rookie: Chris Mueller (Fr., West Seneca, N.Y.)
Most Improved Player: Drew Miller (So., East Lansing, Mich.)
Dr. John Downs Outstanding Defensive Player Award: Corey Potter (Jr., Mason, Mich.)
Goofus Award: Zach McClellan (Fr., Frankenmuth, Mich.)
Outstanding Offensive Player Award: Colton Fretter (Jr., Harrow, Ont.)
Bill Burgess Outstanding Senior Award: Jim Slater (Sr., Lapeer, Mich.)
Amo Bessone Award: Jim Slater (Sr., Lapeer, Mich.)
Most Valuable Player: Jim Slater (Sr., Lapeer, Mich.)
Distinguished Alumni Award: Don McSween
Descriptions of the awards can be found here.
Monday, March 07, 2005
Husky Talk: Scoring Threat
It has been a while since I posted an interview, but with the Michigan Tech Huskies going to Alaska two weeks ago, the time that all the student athletes have had has been little. I figured it is more important for them to concentrate on Hockey and School, rather than taking that time to answer questions for me. After the two game series with UAA, I found time to ask one of my favorite Husky some questions, Chris Conner (CC). I think he has been playing some of his best hockey as of late, in Alaska as well as last Friday night against UM. The goals have not come as easy for Conner this year as last, but it is not because of lack of effort, he seems to put that all out on the table each and every night.
(MCH): What are some of the things that you work on after each series?
(CC): There's nothing particular after each series, but throughout the year I have worked on shooting the puck more. I always catch myself trying to get in close to the goalie.
(MCH): We get Minnesota this week (3/4/05-3/5/05), a must weekend for us, if we want to get out of the cellar in WCHA, what are the things that the team has focused on this week?
(CC): We need to come prepared to play 120 minutes of hockey, taking it one period at a time. We have the confidence we just need to come ready to do the job.
(MCH): You and your line mates produce quality scoring chances on a consistent basis, What makes this line so successful, What are the qualities that everyone brings to the table?
(CC): We have confidence in each other and that makes things a lot easier on the ice. Murph (Colin Murphy) is Murph and he's and unbelievable player. Dezzy (Taggart Desmet) has a great vision and smarts for the game and is able to get anyone the puck.
(MCH): When ever you step out on the ice, you have a shadow from the other team, yet your scoring chances are there, but the points are just not coming, what if anything has been the difference from this year to last?
(CC): The difference is last year I could finish on some of my chances and this year I am having trouble finding the back of the net. Not sure what it is but I know if I knew, I would change it. Haha!
(MCH): In the winning series at UMD, saturday night, we were up by one, and coach Jamie Russell decided to go with Mike Botavanja in the line-up instead of you. From that time on, you have dramatically improved your play on the defensive end, what were coach Russell concerns on that UMD series?
(CC): I wasn't making smart decisions with the puck and I was causing offensive chances for the other team. I needed to change in order to play in those situations and become a better all around player. I still have a long way to go, but I am working on it.
(MCH): With the year coming to an end, and a away playoff game coming next weekend, what do you feel would be a realistic finish for the team this year?
(CC): Final five, when we play our game we can beat anyone in the WCHA.
(MCH): With you senior year coming next year, What type of Hockey training will you be doing this summer?
(CC): Same as every summer, working hard and improving my strength. I also want to work on my shot a lot this summer I feel it is a big improvement I can make in my game.
(MCH): Any aspirations for you to take over Murphy's Captain position next year?
(CC): No not at all. I feel that Brandon Schwartz will make the best candidate for captain next season. He is the hardest working player on the team and I feel that everyone on the team respects him on and off the ice.
I would like to thank all the Huskies that have taken the time to answer my questions through out the year. I wish Conner and the rest of the team the best of luck this upcoming playoff weekend.
(MCH): What are some of the things that you work on after each series?
(CC): There's nothing particular after each series, but throughout the year I have worked on shooting the puck more. I always catch myself trying to get in close to the goalie.
(MCH): We get Minnesota this week (3/4/05-3/5/05), a must weekend for us, if we want to get out of the cellar in WCHA, what are the things that the team has focused on this week?
(CC): We need to come prepared to play 120 minutes of hockey, taking it one period at a time. We have the confidence we just need to come ready to do the job.
(MCH): You and your line mates produce quality scoring chances on a consistent basis, What makes this line so successful, What are the qualities that everyone brings to the table?
(CC): We have confidence in each other and that makes things a lot easier on the ice. Murph (Colin Murphy) is Murph and he's and unbelievable player. Dezzy (Taggart Desmet) has a great vision and smarts for the game and is able to get anyone the puck.
(MCH): When ever you step out on the ice, you have a shadow from the other team, yet your scoring chances are there, but the points are just not coming, what if anything has been the difference from this year to last?
(CC): The difference is last year I could finish on some of my chances and this year I am having trouble finding the back of the net. Not sure what it is but I know if I knew, I would change it. Haha!
(MCH): In the winning series at UMD, saturday night, we were up by one, and coach Jamie Russell decided to go with Mike Botavanja in the line-up instead of you. From that time on, you have dramatically improved your play on the defensive end, what were coach Russell concerns on that UMD series?
(CC): I wasn't making smart decisions with the puck and I was causing offensive chances for the other team. I needed to change in order to play in those situations and become a better all around player. I still have a long way to go, but I am working on it.
(MCH): With the year coming to an end, and a away playoff game coming next weekend, what do you feel would be a realistic finish for the team this year?
(CC): Final five, when we play our game we can beat anyone in the WCHA.
(MCH): With you senior year coming next year, What type of Hockey training will you be doing this summer?
(CC): Same as every summer, working hard and improving my strength. I also want to work on my shot a lot this summer I feel it is a big improvement I can make in my game.
(MCH): Any aspirations for you to take over Murphy's Captain position next year?
(CC): No not at all. I feel that Brandon Schwartz will make the best candidate for captain next season. He is the hardest working player on the team and I feel that everyone on the team respects him on and off the ice.
I would like to thank all the Huskies that have taken the time to answer my questions through out the year. I wish Conner and the rest of the team the best of luck this upcoming playoff weekend.
Thelen dismissed from MSU
Michigan State sophomore defenseman A.J. Thelen has been dismissed from the hockey team, MSU head coach Rick Comley announced Sunday. Thelen's scholarship will still be honored as long as he remains in school and is academically eligible.
"A.J. did not meet the expectations for a student-athlete in the ice hockey program at MSU," said Comley. "It was in the program's best interest to dismiss him from the team immediately. Despite parting at this time, I certainly wish A.J. well in his hockey career."
Thelen, a first-round draft pick of the Minnesota Wild last June, appeared in 33 games this season, posting 11 assists to rank second among the blueliners in scoring. In 74 career games, he totaled 11 goals and 29 assists for 40 points and 98 penalty minutes.
"I feel the coach has double standards for certain players," Thelen told the Minnesota Star Tribune. "I definitely was confident in my schooling and academics was not a problem. I've been eligible all season and would have been next season. He's set in his ways. I tried to work with him and he tried to work with me and it didn't work out."
Thelen's options next year are playing major junior hockey in the Western Hockey League or signing with the Wild and playing in their system.
"A.J. did not meet the expectations for a student-athlete in the ice hockey program at MSU," said Comley. "It was in the program's best interest to dismiss him from the team immediately. Despite parting at this time, I certainly wish A.J. well in his hockey career."
Thelen, a first-round draft pick of the Minnesota Wild last June, appeared in 33 games this season, posting 11 assists to rank second among the blueliners in scoring. In 74 career games, he totaled 11 goals and 29 assists for 40 points and 98 penalty minutes.
"I feel the coach has double standards for certain players," Thelen told the Minnesota Star Tribune. "I definitely was confident in my schooling and academics was not a problem. I've been eligible all season and would have been next season. He's set in his ways. I tried to work with him and he tried to work with me and it didn't work out."
Thelen's options next year are playing major junior hockey in the Western Hockey League or signing with the Wild and playing in their system.
Spartans sweep Notre Dame, McKenzie honored
Michigan State picked up two much-needed wins last weekend as they swept Notre Dame in a home-and-home set that started Friday in East Lansing and culminated Saturday in South Bend.
The Spartans open up CCHA playoff action this weekend as they host Miami-Ohio Friday, Saturday and Sunday (if necessary) at 7:00 p.m. each night at Munn Ice Arena.
Last Friday, senior captain Jim Slater had a goal and an assist as MSU rallied from a 2-0 deficit to post a 3-2 win. Drew Miller and Jim McKenzie scored the other Spartan goals and goalie Dominic Vicari stopped 17 shots for the win on Michigan State's Senior Night.
"For whatever reason, (Senior Night) just takes them out of their pre-game routine and there was nothing; it was lifeless (in the first period)," MSU head coach Rick Comley said. "Even in the locker room after the second period - nothing. Over the years, I've had very few good senior nights as far as quality of play. And Notre Dame played well; they were smart, stretching their guys and they scored. But once we got one, I really thought we would be okay."
Michigan State's senior class is comprised of Slater, Kevin Estrada, Ash Goldie, Mike Lalonde, Matt Migliaccio and Adam Nightingale.
Saturday at Notre Dame, Slater and McKenzie scored in the 2-1 win. Vicari made 23 saves and Tyler Howells added two assists.
"It was a flurry night," said Vicari. "I wouldn't get a lot of action, and then all of sudden it would be back and forth. I had to stay calm and take each shot one at a time."
MSU finishes 17-15-4 overall and 12-13-3, good for sixth place, in conference play.
McKENZIE NAMED CCHA ROOKIE OF THE WEEK
McKenzie was named the CCHA Rookie of the Week on Monday following his two-goal performance in MSU's sweep of Notre Dame last weekend. It marks the first time in his career that he has earned CCHA Rookie of the Week honors.
The Spartans open up CCHA playoff action this weekend as they host Miami-Ohio Friday, Saturday and Sunday (if necessary) at 7:00 p.m. each night at Munn Ice Arena.
Last Friday, senior captain Jim Slater had a goal and an assist as MSU rallied from a 2-0 deficit to post a 3-2 win. Drew Miller and Jim McKenzie scored the other Spartan goals and goalie Dominic Vicari stopped 17 shots for the win on Michigan State's Senior Night.
"For whatever reason, (Senior Night) just takes them out of their pre-game routine and there was nothing; it was lifeless (in the first period)," MSU head coach Rick Comley said. "Even in the locker room after the second period - nothing. Over the years, I've had very few good senior nights as far as quality of play. And Notre Dame played well; they were smart, stretching their guys and they scored. But once we got one, I really thought we would be okay."
Michigan State's senior class is comprised of Slater, Kevin Estrada, Ash Goldie, Mike Lalonde, Matt Migliaccio and Adam Nightingale.
Saturday at Notre Dame, Slater and McKenzie scored in the 2-1 win. Vicari made 23 saves and Tyler Howells added two assists.
"It was a flurry night," said Vicari. "I wouldn't get a lot of action, and then all of sudden it would be back and forth. I had to stay calm and take each shot one at a time."
MSU finishes 17-15-4 overall and 12-13-3, good for sixth place, in conference play.
McKENZIE NAMED CCHA ROOKIE OF THE WEEK
McKenzie was named the CCHA Rookie of the Week on Monday following his two-goal performance in MSU's sweep of Notre Dame last weekend. It marks the first time in his career that he has earned CCHA Rookie of the Week honors.
Wolverines sweep BGSU, finish first in CCHA
With a home-and-home sweep of Bowling Green last weekend, Michigan clinched the CCHA regular season championship for the third time in four years. The Wolverines took a 4-1 win in Ohio Friday night and a 5-4 win Saturday on Senior Night.
"It's been a heck of a ride, but it's not over yet," senior captain Eric Nystrom said. "We came here to win the big one, but we haven't done that yet. Not many teams have done that since they've been here and we want to do that and look back and to leave our stamp on Michigan hockey. We made a mission statement this season and the last words are 'time to join a legacy' and we have as good of a chance as anybody right now. We have the team to do it."
Friday night, Nystrom, Andrew Ebbett, Jeff Tambellini and T.J. Hensick scored to back Al Montoya's 21 saves.
Saturday night, the 10-member senior class - Nystrom, Milan Gajic, Nick Martens, Charlie Henderson, Eric Werner, Brandon Rogers, Mike Woodford, David Moss, Jason Ryznar and Reilly Olson - all dressed and the five Michigan starters were all seniors.
Chad Kolarik scored twice and Ebbett, Gajic and Tambellini added singles for U of M, who got a 22-save performance from Montoya.
"They're a big class," Michigan head coach Red Berenson said of his seniors. "They do so many things on this team. Every time you look down the bench, you're looking to put an experienced player in a situation. The seniors have been able to do that. They haven't led our team in scoring, but they've led out team in a lot of ways, whether it's physical presence, hard work, in the locker room, in practice or in the weight room. There are a lot of things that go on in a team and we've had a terrific group of kids that have stuck together through thick and thin. They're not all the same; they're all different. They're a good group of kids."
The Wolverines (26-7-3, 23-3-2 CCHA) host Notre Dame this weekend in a first-round CCHA playoff matchup. Games are Friday and Saturday at 7:35 p.m. and Sunday if necessary.
"It's been a heck of a ride, but it's not over yet," senior captain Eric Nystrom said. "We came here to win the big one, but we haven't done that yet. Not many teams have done that since they've been here and we want to do that and look back and to leave our stamp on Michigan hockey. We made a mission statement this season and the last words are 'time to join a legacy' and we have as good of a chance as anybody right now. We have the team to do it."
Friday night, Nystrom, Andrew Ebbett, Jeff Tambellini and T.J. Hensick scored to back Al Montoya's 21 saves.
Saturday night, the 10-member senior class - Nystrom, Milan Gajic, Nick Martens, Charlie Henderson, Eric Werner, Brandon Rogers, Mike Woodford, David Moss, Jason Ryznar and Reilly Olson - all dressed and the five Michigan starters were all seniors.
Chad Kolarik scored twice and Ebbett, Gajic and Tambellini added singles for U of M, who got a 22-save performance from Montoya.
"They're a big class," Michigan head coach Red Berenson said of his seniors. "They do so many things on this team. Every time you look down the bench, you're looking to put an experienced player in a situation. The seniors have been able to do that. They haven't led our team in scoring, but they've led out team in a lot of ways, whether it's physical presence, hard work, in the locker room, in practice or in the weight room. There are a lot of things that go on in a team and we've had a terrific group of kids that have stuck together through thick and thin. They're not all the same; they're all different. They're a good group of kids."
The Wolverines (26-7-3, 23-3-2 CCHA) host Notre Dame this weekend in a first-round CCHA playoff matchup. Games are Friday and Saturday at 7:35 p.m. and Sunday if necessary.
Sunday, March 06, 2005
Broncos and Bulldogs Finish with Split
The Western Michigan Broncos and Ferris State Bulldogs closed out the regular season over the weekend by splitting their traditional home-and-home series.
BIG RAPIDS, Mich--- The Broncos (13-19-2, 8-18-2 CCHA) came to play on Friday night as they whipped the Bulldogs, 5-1, at the Ewigleben Ice Arena.
Kevin Labatte, Vince Bellissimo, Brent Walton, and Mike Erickson all scored to give the visitors a 4-0 lead by the 7:14 mark of the third period.
Derek Nesbitt finally got FSU on the board with a 5-on-3, power-play goal at 9:28 of the third.
Labatte added his second of the night at 15:10 to seal the win for the Broncos.
In net, Daniel Bellissimo made 30 saves for the Broncos and Mike Brown turned aside 33 for the Bulldogs.
WMU finished the evening with a 3-8 power-play while holding FSU to a 1-8 night with the man advantage.
KALAMAZOO, Mich--- The Bulldogs (12-20-4, 7-17-4 CCHA) got their revenge on the Broncos home ice on Saturday by pulling out a 5-2 win at the Lawson Arena.
Vince Bellissimo got the Broncos on the board first with his 17th of the season, just 45 seconds into the game.
The Bulldogs regrouped as Derek Nesbitt scored the next two goals on the power-play to give FSU a one goal lead.
Jeff Legue added another power-play marker at 12:05 of the first period and the Bulldogs rode a 3-1 lead into the third.
At 10:28 of the final twenty, Nesbitt scored again for the hat-trick and a 4-1 FSU lead.
Reid Yantzi scored for the Broncos at 17:32, but the Bulldogs squashed all momentum when Legue scored his second of the night just 13 seconds later to cap the scoring.
Senior Mike Brown made 28 saves in winning his final regular season start for the Bulldogs. Daniel Bellissimo made 31 saves for the Broncos.
FSU finished the evening with a 3-8 power-play. WMU went 1-7 with the man-advantage.
On to the Playoffs….
The split sealed a tenth place tie for FSU and WMU, who’ll both start a difficult conference playoff run on the road.
The Bulldogs will open the first round of the CCHA Playoffs with a pair of games against the #2 seed Ohio State Buckeyes in Columbus on Friday and Saturday night.
The Broncos will head north and open with two games against the third-seed Northern Michigan Wildcats in Marquette on Friday and Saturday.
BIG RAPIDS, Mich--- The Broncos (13-19-2, 8-18-2 CCHA) came to play on Friday night as they whipped the Bulldogs, 5-1, at the Ewigleben Ice Arena.
Kevin Labatte, Vince Bellissimo, Brent Walton, and Mike Erickson all scored to give the visitors a 4-0 lead by the 7:14 mark of the third period.
Derek Nesbitt finally got FSU on the board with a 5-on-3, power-play goal at 9:28 of the third.
Labatte added his second of the night at 15:10 to seal the win for the Broncos.
In net, Daniel Bellissimo made 30 saves for the Broncos and Mike Brown turned aside 33 for the Bulldogs.
WMU finished the evening with a 3-8 power-play while holding FSU to a 1-8 night with the man advantage.
KALAMAZOO, Mich--- The Bulldogs (12-20-4, 7-17-4 CCHA) got their revenge on the Broncos home ice on Saturday by pulling out a 5-2 win at the Lawson Arena.
Vince Bellissimo got the Broncos on the board first with his 17th of the season, just 45 seconds into the game.
The Bulldogs regrouped as Derek Nesbitt scored the next two goals on the power-play to give FSU a one goal lead.
Jeff Legue added another power-play marker at 12:05 of the first period and the Bulldogs rode a 3-1 lead into the third.
At 10:28 of the final twenty, Nesbitt scored again for the hat-trick and a 4-1 FSU lead.
Reid Yantzi scored for the Broncos at 17:32, but the Bulldogs squashed all momentum when Legue scored his second of the night just 13 seconds later to cap the scoring.
Senior Mike Brown made 28 saves in winning his final regular season start for the Bulldogs. Daniel Bellissimo made 31 saves for the Broncos.
FSU finished the evening with a 3-8 power-play. WMU went 1-7 with the man-advantage.
On to the Playoffs….
The split sealed a tenth place tie for FSU and WMU, who’ll both start a difficult conference playoff run on the road.
The Bulldogs will open the first round of the CCHA Playoffs with a pair of games against the #2 seed Ohio State Buckeyes in Columbus on Friday and Saturday night.
The Broncos will head north and open with two games against the third-seed Northern Michigan Wildcats in Marquette on Friday and Saturday.
WCHA First Round Pairings
Michigan Tech along with the rest of the WCHA now know what the first round pairing will be. The Huskies will try to repeat the excellent performance last time they were in Denver, a weekend in which MTU allowed only 1 goal, and ended up getting a series split with the Pioneers.
WCHA Match Ups:
#1 Denver vs. #10 Michigan Tech
#2 Colorado College vs. #9 St. Cloud State
#3 Minnesota vs. #8 Mankato State - Minnesota
#4 Wisconsin vs. #7 Alaska Anchorage
#5 North Dakota vs. #6 Minnesota Duluth
A turn around is needed, as Tech will go into this weekends series posting a 0-4-2 record in the last six games. MTU will look to the leaders of the team for this weekend's series. They include Cam Ellsworth in net, Lars Helminen at the blueline, and Chirs Conner and Colin Murphy on the offensive side.
Murphy ended the season with the most assists in the nation with 42 and tied for second in points in the nation with 53. It is also the first time in over a decade that a Husky tallied more than 50 points in a season. Conner leads the team in goals with 13, and needs to really get the ball rolling to help Tech get into the Final 5. Helminen is the second leading scorer on the team and 3rd in the conference among blueliners with 24 points. Ellsworth has been solid in net since the beginning of 2005, and that needs to continue if Tech will want to move on.
The 3 game series kicks off Friday in Denver with the winner moving on to the WCHA Final 5.
WCHA Match Ups:
#1 Denver vs. #10 Michigan Tech
#2 Colorado College vs. #9 St. Cloud State
#3 Minnesota vs. #8 Mankato State - Minnesota
#4 Wisconsin vs. #7 Alaska Anchorage
#5 North Dakota vs. #6 Minnesota Duluth
A turn around is needed, as Tech will go into this weekends series posting a 0-4-2 record in the last six games. MTU will look to the leaders of the team for this weekend's series. They include Cam Ellsworth in net, Lars Helminen at the blueline, and Chirs Conner and Colin Murphy on the offensive side.
Murphy ended the season with the most assists in the nation with 42 and tied for second in points in the nation with 53. It is also the first time in over a decade that a Husky tallied more than 50 points in a season. Conner leads the team in goals with 13, and needs to really get the ball rolling to help Tech get into the Final 5. Helminen is the second leading scorer on the team and 3rd in the conference among blueliners with 24 points. Ellsworth has been solid in net since the beginning of 2005, and that needs to continue if Tech will want to move on.
The 3 game series kicks off Friday in Denver with the winner moving on to the WCHA Final 5.
MTU Swept, Gophers Return the Favor
Michigan Tech ended the regular season not giving the seniors the last home game that they would have hoped for as they were swept by the Minnesota Gophers. It was all Minnesota this weekend, as they overpowered the Huskies to get the 4-2 victory Friday and the shutout, 5-0 and sweep of the series on Saturday. Tech will have to regroup as they prepare for the first round of the playoffs in Denver facing a very difficult Pioneers team.
Friday night saw the Gophers get out to a 3-0 lead in the first, only to have MTU get within one by the end of the second. It was Brandon Schwartz and Nick Anderson getting the goals for the Huskies in the secon period. MTU had many other chances, the best from Junior forward Chris Conner, one excellent chance in each period, but his scoring troubles continued as he found the post on the last two, and was stopped by the Gopher netminder on the first.
Saturday was all Minnesota as they started strong, and continued all game. MTU seniors were honored after the game, they include Phil Pietla, Brad Sullivan, Ryan Markham, John Hartman, Clay Wilson, Cam Ellsworth, and Colin Murphy. It has been a great time having all the seniors here and they will be missed. Let's hope they can end it on a good note, in the WCHA playoffs.
Friday night saw the Gophers get out to a 3-0 lead in the first, only to have MTU get within one by the end of the second. It was Brandon Schwartz and Nick Anderson getting the goals for the Huskies in the secon period. MTU had many other chances, the best from Junior forward Chris Conner, one excellent chance in each period, but his scoring troubles continued as he found the post on the last two, and was stopped by the Gopher netminder on the first.
Saturday was all Minnesota as they started strong, and continued all game. MTU seniors were honored after the game, they include Phil Pietla, Brad Sullivan, Ryan Markham, John Hartman, Clay Wilson, Cam Ellsworth, and Colin Murphy. It has been a great time having all the seniors here and they will be missed. Let's hope they can end it on a good note, in the WCHA playoffs.
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