Finlandia lands ultra-talented Hartland foursome

Andrew Brownlee, Jake Henrikson, Thomas Kerr and Cam Miglia are teammates this season with the Hartland Hounds and will be teammates once again next year as the quartet has committed to play NCAA Division III college hockey at Finlandia University.

Located in Hancock, Finlandia plays in the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association and is coached by John McCabe, a former assistant coach at Division I Alabama-Huntsville.

All four players said this season with the Hounds in the inaugural season of the Midwest Junior Hockey League has done wonders for their development to the point where they feel they will be able to make an impact as freshmen next season for the Lions.

“(Hartland coach) Randy Montrose has played a huge role in my career ever since I become a player on his teams three years ago because he expects nothing short of 100 percent, whether it be a practice or a game,” said Brownlee, a 19-year-old Fowlerville native. “Playing for the Hounds just comes to show that no matter where you play hockey, if you’re good enough, other teams such as FU will find you.”

Brownlee leads the MWJHL in all goaltending categories, including wins (29), goals-against average (1.87), save percentage (.932), shutouts (five) and minutes played (1734:58). He is also a three-time Goaltender of the Week and a two-time Goaltender of the Month.

Henrikson, Hartland’s captain, has been at or near the top of league scoring much of the season. Like Brownlee, he gave credit to Montrose for pushing him this season to reach his goal of college hockey.

“Randy told me about Finlandia and then they came and watched us play and talked to me after,” the 20-year-old Commerce native said. “Randy has always helped me out with my hockey and finding the right place for me to go. I know playing at Finlandia will be really fast hockey and a lot of hitting and my goal is to get good grades and still play hockey. I think it will be great going in and already knowing a couple guys playing there.

“That being said, yeah, we’ve committed, but we all know that now is when the hard work begins to be able to get to campus in the fall and contribute. We also still have our season here to finish up and get ready for nationals in April. The commitment is great for all of us, but we’re not content with sitting back and talking about that. We want to bring a national championship to Hartland. That’s our immediate goal.”

For Miglia, a 19-year-old Brighton forward, he had always looked at Finlandia and took it upon himself to take initiative at the start of the 2012-13 season.

“I emailed Finlandia University at the beginning of the season because I was interested in playing there,” said Miglia. “They came out to watch me play and were interested. Randy has pushed me a lot to be my best everyday and helped me get better at the parts of my game that needed it most. It's always been a dream since I was little watching college games at Yost Ice Arena (in Ann Arbor) and it finally came true. I would like to thank my mom and dad for paying for hockey this long and putting up with me all these years. I also want to thank all the Hounds coaches this year – Randy, Scott (Gardiner) and Marty (Passino) are all great coaches.”

“The Hounds and Randy have played the biggest role in getting here,” said Kerr, an 18-year-old Howell native. “After my high school career, I didn't have much faith that I would be playing NCAA hockey. When the opportunity presented itself to play for Randy again, I had to jump on it and it definitely has paid off. I think his coaching style this year and the last five years of my life have developed me into the player I am today.”

The foursome went on a visit to Finlandia several weeks back to survey the campus and hockey facilities and to also meet with McCabe. Each player came away impressed.

“I learned it's a very small school, which I like,” Miglia said. “You will know pretty much everyone there. John McCabe seems like a great coach and I know he's moved guys on to the pro level. I like that he takes his hockey very serious.”

“When we went on our visit, I learned the guys do everything together, making you that much closer as a team and those are the kinds of things I like to see because you can count on anyone to do the little things at any point throughout the year and season,” said Brownlee. “When I met and talked with Coach McCabe, I noticed that he's a young coach that is looking to form a solid program up at FU and is looking forward to forming a winning program.

“Ever since I was a little kid, it was a dream of mine to play pro or college hockey and when it comes to things like getting this opportunity, I want to thank my family, especially my parents for helping me all the way through my career and putting up with all the junk I've put them through to get me to where I am now. I would also like to thank Randy for all the help he's given to me and guidance he's given not only me, but to all his players throughout his coaching career.”

“It’s been a dream of mine to make it to college hockey ever since I stepped on the ice competitively in Squirts,” said Kerr. “It seems like a very long time since then and playing collegiate hockey has never stopped running through my mind. Just like every hockey player, it is a huge dream to play hockey in college. My parents have been the most supportive people throughout my hockey career. From going to every game, driving me to trips, all the time spent at the rink, I wouldn't be the player I am today without them. I would also like to thank Randy, Scotty and Marty. I’ve been skating with them for the last six years of my life and every season with them has been successful in developing me into a better player.

“Randy is a coach that takes pride giving 100 percent to make you the most successful hockey player you can be and if you give 100 percent of your efforts, you will receive 100 percent of his.”

At the end of the day, the praise is a nice pat on the back, but Montrose said it’s all about the players.

“As a coach, I have always believed that it is about teaching and advancing players,” said Montrose. “That is our primary responsibility as a coach. I am beyond proud of these gentlemen that have taken pride in advancing themselves.”

Adrian's Skelly signs CHL contract

Courtesy Daily Telegram

Shawn Skelly feels ready for another playoff run.

Two weeks after the Adrian College men’s hockey team finished as NCAA Division III runner-up, the high-scoring forward looks to help his new team chase a championship.

Skelly has signed a professional contract with the Texas Brahmas of the Central Hockey League. He joins Texas during its best-of-five series against the Odessa Jackalopes in the first round of the CHL Ray Miron President’s Cup playoffs. Texas and Odessa split the first two games of the series and play Game 3 on Tuesday night.

“It’s a lifetime goal of mine,” Skelly said shortly before his flight to Texas on Sunday night. “I grew up always wanting to play pro hockey. It’s an exciting time that I was given this opportunity, and hopefully I can excel at it.

“...It’s going to be different coming into a team where I don’t know anyone. I hope they embrace me coming in, and hopefully I can help them out.”

Adrian College hockey standout Skelly signs professional contract

Adrian's luck runs out in title game

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

The Adrian College Bulldogs fell painfully short in their bid for their first NCAA Division III Championship, falling 4-3 to the St. Norbert College Green Knights at the Ridder Arena in Minneapolis on Saturday night.

"We had a few lapses on the penalty kill and that really lead to them getting the win," said head coach Ron Fogarty. "I'm proud of our guys and the heart they showed each time we went down a goal. I'm also proud to be the head coach of Adrian College."

Nick Tabisz scored on the power-play at 15:26 of the third period to seal the title for St. Norbert who were in the championship game for the fifth time in the last eight years.

Sam Kuzyk, Kyle Watson, and Eric Miller lit the lamp and Brad Fogal made 30 saves for an Adrian team that finished with an overall record of 25-4-1.

"We could not gain any momentum because every goal by us was answered by them," said senior Sam Kuzyk. "Our team tried to overcome the penalties but they really did a good job of making those penalties hurt."

Cody Keefer popped in a pair of goals, Johan Ryd added a power-play marker and B.J. O'Brien stopped 18 as SNC won it's second National Championship.

The 17 outgoing Bulldog seniors won four MCHA regular season and Harris Cup titles and depart with an overall record of 102-12-2.

Senior blueliner Jeremy Klaver and senior forward Shawn Skelly both nabbed Frozen Four All-Tournament Team honors.

Photo courtesy of Adrian Athletics.

Adrian to play for D-III championship

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

Adrian advanced to the Division III national title game with a 5-3 win over Oswego State Friday afternoon in Minneapolis.

The Bulldogs, winners of 14 straight games, will now play for the first NCAA championship in school history tonight against St. Norbert.

Shawn Skelly scored twice, while Zach Graham, Andrew Dovey and Mike Towns added singles to back Brad Fogal's 39-save performance in net.

"We are thrilled to be moving on and it really has not hit me yet," said senior forward Eric Miller, who added two assists. "We still have one more game to win before we can really exhale. Our goal four years ago was to win a national title and we are so close to realizing a dream."

The national championship will be decided tonight at 8 p.m. from Ridder Arena in Minneapolis.

The game can be seen by going here and clicking on the live video link.

Adrian wins fourth straight MCHA title

Adrian Press Release

The Adrian men's team can hoist another banner inside Arrington Ice Arena after a 3-1 win at Milwaukee School of Engineering Friday night as they clinched their fourth straight MCHA regular season title, improving to 20-3-1 overall and 17-1-1 in the MCHA.

The Bulldogs won the South Division and will earn a bye into the Harris Cup semifinals as the conference's top seed. The Harris Cup will begin March 5 with the finals set for March 6.

Adrian will finish the regular season tonight against the Raiders and improved to 16-0-1 all-time against MSOE.

Senior goaltender Brad Fogal had a historical night as he became the NCAA Division III all-time wins leader in net. Fogal made 35 saves in one of his best efforts of the season and is now 88-10-2 in his career. Fogal surpassed Kyle Jones of St. Norbert (2002-2005). Fogal sits eighth in Division III history in goals-against average, 12th in save percentage and fourth in win percentage.

The Bulldogs and Raiders entered the contest with identical records and the top ten battle did not disappoint. Adrian, ranked fifth in the latest USCHO.com Division III poll, got on the board first after a scoreless first period. Senior forward Eric Miller (pictured) scored at the 40-second mark of the second period on the power play with assists from Josh Cousineau and Zach Graham. It was Miller's 15th goal of the season and 85th of his career. It was also his sixth power play goal of the season and 29th of his career.

Milwaukee School of Engineering, ranked eighth this week, tied the game at 1-1 at the 12:17 mark of the second. MSOE had a golden opportunity just a few minutes earlier as Michael Soik attempted a penalty shot that was stopped by Fogal. The second period ended at 1-1 with the Raiders holding a 26-11 edge in shots on goal at that point.

Junior forward Jordan Watts scored the game-winner at 2:31 of the third period at even strength with assists from Joel Workman and Kyle Watson. It was his ninth goal of the season in his first year with the Bulldogs. That goal seemed to give Adrian momentum heading toward the finish as Adrian outshot MSOE, 14-10, in the third to bring the total to 36-25 in favor of the Raiders for the contest.

Adrian killed off two penalties in the third period and all four for the game. AC came into the game as the third-best penalty killing unit in Division III at 89.3 percent. After a Jeremy Klaver holding minor put the Raiders on the power play with 2:04 left, Watson controlled the puck and slipped it into an empty net at the 18:23 mark with an assist from Mike Towns. It was his third goal of the season and 32nd of his career.

Adrian has now gone unbeaten in their last 13 games going 12-0-1.

Photo courtesy Adrian College Athletics

Seniors lead AC in historic outdoor game

Adrian Press Release

The historic 2010 Frozen Faceoff at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor was a special day for all Adrian College players, coaches and 1,470 fans who braved the cold weather in order to be a part of the first NCAA Division III outdoor hockey game.

The end result was not too shabby either as the ninth-ranked Bulldogs (8-2, 7-1 MCHA) blanked the Concordia (Wis.) University Falcons by a final score of 3-0.

Senior Brad Fogal made 27 saves, earning his 13th career shutout and his first this season. Senior Jeremy Cross played the final 6:25 of the second period in goal and made three saves.

Seniors Joel Workman, Kyle Watson and Brad Houston all scored for Adrian in the contest, etching their name into the record books.

Workman scored just 1:48 into the game unassisted at even strength. He took the puck and came from the side of the goal and slipped a wrap-around shot past Concordia goaltender Everett Devlin for his third tally of the season.

Watson made it 2-0 after one period at 3:29 also at even strength. His second goal of the season was a sharp angle shot from the left faceoff circle which beat Devlin top shelf. Sam Kuzyk and Quinn Waller each had an assist on the goal.

Midway through the second period, Houston scored his sixth of the year on the power play at 11:21. He took a pass from Mike Dahlinger and skated between the circles and let a shot go to the glove side of Devlin. The goaltender got a piece of the puck, but it squirted past the goal line for a 3-0 lead. Kuzyk got his second assist of the day on the goal.

Adrian had a slim 34-30 edge in shots on goal. The Adrian penalty kill continued to succeed allowing no power play goals on six attempts by the Falcons. The Bulldogs were 1-for-2 on the man advantage for the game.

"This was a very unique opportunity and we are very grateful to the University of Michigan for allowing us to be a part of history," said fourth-year Adrian head coach Ron Fogarty. "Our guys will remember this feeling for the rest of their lives. You look around this stadium and think of all the amazing athletes who have played here. To be the first hockey game here is such an honor. We got a chance to showcase Division III hockey and both programs played inspired hockey."

Photo courtesy Adrian College Athletics

Adrian to play at Michigan Stadium

Adrian College Press Release

The Adrian College men's hockey team will get a chance to showcase their program on the biggest stage in college athletics on Saturday, December 4, as they will play the first outdoor game in the modern era of NCAA Division III hockey at Michigan Stadium.

The Bulldogs will square off with MCHA opponent Concordia University (Wis.) at 9:30 a.m., one week before the Big Chill between the University of Michigan and Michigan State University.

"This is an outstanding opportunity to showcase our men's hockey team," said Adrian athletic director Mike Duffy. "NCAA Division III student-athletes work very hard and to reward them with an opportunity to play in a venue like the 'Big House' may only come along once in a lifetime. This will be a moment that they will remember for the rest of their lives."

The Bulldogs feature one of the best programs in Division III and are currently ranked 10th in the nation by USCHO.com's preseason poll. Adrian has captured three straight MCHA regular season and Harris Cup titles and are gunning for a fourth in 2010-11.

"Our program appreciates the opportunity given to us by Craig Wotta and the University of Michigan to hold the first men's Division III outdoor game at the Big House," said Adrian head coach Ron Fogarty, who is entering his fourth year. "Over the past three years our team has competed against the USA-18 team, played overseas in Finland and competed for championships. Along with playing the Czech-18 team this November, this adds to the list of unique events that our players and staff have been able to experience while being at Adrian College."

The game was originally scheduled for a home game at Arrington Ice Arena, which was set to begin at 3:00 p.m. The contest will count towards both teams overall and conference records.

"Concordia University and our hockey players are honored to be involved in this game," said Concordia head coach Tony Hrkac, who is also entering his fourth year with the Falcons. "This venue showcases our great sport in a majestic way. This type of special event is huge for Division III hockey."

Ticket information about the event and other details are still unavailable at this time.

NAHL vet Burke commits to Finlandia

Traverse City North Stars Press Release

Sean Burke has been an avid outdoorsman since he was old enough to hold a rod and reel.

Now, the former Traverse City North Stars forward and Grand Traverse Hockey Association product will be able to hunt the plentiful bounty and fish the well-stocked waters of the northernmost reaches of the Upper Peninsula – and get to play college hockey in Copper County.

Burke, who spent the last three seasons with the North Stars after a decorated high school career at Traverse City West, is headed to Finlandia University in Hancock, where he’ll study business and skate for the Lions.

“It feels good to have my direction set,” said Burke, who finished his junior career with 33 points over 137 contests. “It felt like there was a weight off my chest when it finally became official. I mean, there was no way I was going to go to college and not play hockey. I’m pretty excited about it.”

Burke was an All-State selection at TC West in 2007 and tendered by the North Stars. He appeared in 40 games as a rookie, with a pair of goals and five assists. His offensive output jumped to eight goals and as many assists in 2008-09 and he had logged a career-high nine goals last season before breaking his kneecap against Motor City on Jan. 23. He returned for the season finale and saw action in the team’s Robertson Cup playoff run, but hadn’t returned to full strength until the summer.

“That was hard because I had seen some interest from some schools, but when I was out injured – I had lost a lot of opportunity time; I was sitting on nothing,” Burke explained. “I hadn’t talked to Finlandia, but I got a text one day from (current TC West) coach Rintala asking me what I thought about it. It kind of came out of nowhere, but I’m glad it did.”

North Stars head coach-GM Anthony Palumbo says the Lions are getting the total package in Burke, and he should know – he’s coached Burke for the last eight seasons.

“I coached him as a bantam, in high school, and for the past three years in juniors,” Palumbo offered. “I know they’re getting a great kid and a great teammate with a tremendous work ethic. He’s earned everything he’s gotten at every level and I have no doubt he’ll do the same up there.”

Burke, who plans to study business at the 500-student private college on the rugged Keweenaw Peninsula, will not be alone as he embarks on his college hockey career. A pair of fellow TC West alums are also set to play at Finlandia this year: forward Shane Totten and defenseman Vinnie Pietrangelo.

Former North Stars goalie Ryan Donovan and ex-Marquette Rangers forward Collin Saint-Onge are also on the Lions roster.

Burke will also get to see some familiar faces on opposing benches this year by virtue of playing in the NCAA Division III Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association – Former North Stars Matt Hughes, Jameson Raymond and Jonathan Sheridan at Lawrence University, and Ben Plocar and Mike Schenfeld at Milwaukee School of Engineering.

“It’s exciting to move on to the next step of your career, to know you’re going to get a great education in a comfortable setting,” Burke said. “I think (playing) juniors – at that level, that pace – helps you mature as a player. You’re around good players who help you raise your own game and help you acclimate to the game when you’re a younger player.”

Like most hockey players, Burke had plenty of backing in matriculating from mite through bantam in the Grand Traverse Hockey Association youth program, his prep career at TC West and three-year run with the North Stars.

“I’ve had a lot of great coaches over the years who have helped me get this far,” Burke concluded. “And getting to play basically all my hockey in Traverse City, I’ve made a lot of lifelong friends and I’m grateful for that. But through it all, I’ve been lucky to have tremendous support from my family.

"I can’t thank them enough.”

Photo by John L. Russell/Great Lakes Images

Traverse City defenseman off to Lions

Metro Jets Press Release

When the Metro Jets drafted Vinnie Pietrangelo early on in the 2009 Central States Hockey League draft, the team was banking on the rangy defenseman playing just one season with the Jets and then moving on to a higher level.

That has officially happened as the 19-year-old native of Traverse City has committed to play Division III hockey at Finlandia University, a small school located in the town of Hancock in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, starting this fall. The Lions play in the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association and the school is just one of two D-III schools in Michigan, with Adrian College being the other.

Pietrangelo played in 47 games last year for the Jets, scoring a power-play goal and adding seven assists for eight points. He said his year in Waterford was a defining year in helping him achieve his dream of playing college hockey.

“When I played at Traverse City West High School, my coaches knew that I wanted to play at the college level, so they contacted the coach at Finlandia and then told me that I needed to play a year of juniors if I wanted to play there,” said Pietrangelo. “The Metro Jets gave me that opportunity.

“The main thing that helped last year was it helped me become a little responsible with my offensive decisions, such as when to (join the rush) and when not to. I could pretty much get away with anything I wanted to at the high school level, but I found out quickly enough that wasn't the case at the junior level.”

“Vinnie struggled a bit early on as he found out how quickly the game transitions in our league,” Metro GM Butch Wolfe said. “However, he was able to make that adjustment. This should help him at Finlandia as the D-III game is quicker yet. We wish him all good luck and success over his next four years.”

Pietrangelo will join former Jets forward Troy Storm (2006-2007) on the Lions’ roster, while another ex-Metro forward, Brandon Van Acker (2004-2005), just completed his senior season with Finlandia. Two other Metro alums, Pete Kolasa and Brooks Olson, also saw time playing for Finlandia after playing in Waterford. Kolasa played in the 1990s and Olson was a member of the Jets’ 2002 Silver Cup-winning national Junior B championship squad.

Pietrangelo initially made the decision to play for the Lions before new head coach John McCabe took over in May. When McCabe took over the program, he did some research on Pietrangelo and realized he had a solid incoming recruit.

“Vinnie was one of the guys (whose commitment) I honored because of his character and his upside,” McCabe said. “I have done some background checks on him from his prior coaches and I know I am bringing in a great kid from a quality family. He will be a solid defenseman for us next year.”

When looking back at the fact that he has progressed rapidly through the high school ranks, CSHL and now to the college level, Pietrangelo showed a humble side when he discussed whom he credits most when a decision like this is made to advance his hockey career.

“I really give credit to my high school coaches, Jeremy Rintala and Bob Spence, and of course, Anthony Palumbo of the (North American Hockey League’s) Traverse City North Stars, who coached me in minor hockey and in high school, as well as my family because they have been very supportive of everything throughout the year,” Pietrangelo said. “In the CSHL, there are long bus rides to places like Dubuque and Pittsburgh, and my family traveled to most venues where we played.”

As for the future, Pietrangelo thinks he will be able to succeed at Finlandia, a school where he intends to pursue a degree in the medical field.

“I think my game will fit into the college game because I can adapt to most situations and read the plays that my opponents are making,” noted Pietrangelo. “I also feel my ability to jump up into the play and create something from the back end will fit well in college.

“Short term and long term, my goals are to play well and help the team be successful.”

Photo by Andy Grossman/Detailed Images

McCabe new bench boss with Finlandia

Finlandia Press Release

Finlandia University has announced that John McCabe has accepted the position of head men's ice hockey coach beginning in the 2010-11 academic year.

McCabe takes over the Finlandia Lions men's hockey program after completing his sixth season as an assistant men's hockey coach at the University of Alabama-Huntsville, which is a NCAA Division I school. McCabe helped lead the UAH Chargers to two College Hockey America tournament titles (losing a third in the championship game to Bemidji State in 2006) and two NCAA regional semifinal appearances, most recently the 2010 Midwest Regional in Fort Wayne, Ind.

At Huntsville, McCabe worked under Danton Cole, former Michigan State All-American and Stanley Cup winner the New Jersey Devils.

"John brings with him all of the hockey knowledge that he's acquired under Coach Cole and his former coaches to help create at Finlandia the optimal environment to breed success in the college ranks," said FU athletic director Chris Salani.

Salani explained the number one priority in Finlandia's search for a men's hockey coach was to identify the candidate with proven experience and success and a solid understanding of how a college program should be run.

"The hockey environment in the college setting is much different than in the junior ranks," Salani notes. "To achieve success and elevate Finlandia hockey to D-III national prominence, which is our goal, it was critical that we find the person who is the right fit for our community and for our program. I believe we've found that person in John McCabe."

Salani is hoping to generate at Finlandia a similar atmosphere of excellence as recently demonstrated by the men's hockey program at Adrian College, also a member of NCAA Division III and the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association.

"I believe in many ways Adrian's success can be credited to the hiring of a coach who understood and had the experience of the DI college game behind him," Salani explained. "In a lot of ways, I expect Coach McCabe to immediately set the Finlandia's men's hockey program in the right direction and compete for not only MCHA titles, but national titles."

In the previous four years, McCabe's primary responsibility for the UAH hockey program was that of head men's hockey recruiter.

"John's networks throughout North America and in Scandinavia, combined with his regular work in identifying high profile recruits, will also be a huge asset in establishing a quality and successful product on the ice for Finlandia," Salani said.

In his own hockey career, McCabe played for UAH from 1995-1998 during a period in which the Chargers program won two NCAA D-II national championships - the second in his senior year as captain of the team. Following, McCabe played seven seasons of minor professional hockey, most notably four seasons in the East Coast Hockey League with the Mobile Mysticks, the Greensboro Generals and the Toledo Storm.

Established in 1999, the Finlandia men's hockey program is a member of NCAA Division III and the MCHA. The team was coached on an interim basis by Salani in the 2009-10 season and by former head coaches Joe Burcar (2002-2009) and Scott Mikesch (1999-2001). The Lions won the Harris Cup in 2007.

McCabe relocates to Hancock with his wife, Carla, seven-month-old daughter Annslee, and step-daughter, eight-year-old Lillie.

Burcar lands on feet in Orange County

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

Former Finlandia University head coach Joe Burcar will join Orange County Hockey Club as its Midget 18U AAA head coach and 16U AAA assistant coach next season, the club announced.

Burcar is the brother of Jim Burcar, who coached the club's 16AA team to a national title earlier this month.

Joe Burcar had a 70-69-9 record in eight seasons at Finlandia, a Division III school in Hancock that competes in the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association.

He has also coached numerous Team Michigan squads at the Select festival, winning gold with Team Michigan on more than one occasion.

One and done: Adrian falls to St. Norbert

St. Norbert Press Release

St. Norbert College advanced to the quarterfinal round of the NCAA Division III Men's Ice Hockey Tournament for the eighth time in nine years with a hard-fought 4-3 win over Adrian College in a first-round game at the Cornerstone Community Center in Green Bay, Wisc., Wednesday night.

The Green Knights improved to 22-3-3 with the win and will face Gustavus Adolphus College (20-6-2) at 7:00 p.m. Saturday in a national quarterfinal game at the Cornerstone.

Adrian, making its first NCAA Tournament appearance, finishes 24-4-0.

St. Norbert built a 4-1 lead, but had to withstand a late Adrian flurry to advance. Adrian cut the deficit to 4-2 when Mike Dahlinger put home a rebound on a power play with 10:47 gone in the second period. That score held up until there was 3:41 remaining in the game when the Bulldogs' Mike Towns had the puck bounce off his shoulder in front of the net for a goal.

Adrian pulled goaltender Brad Fogal with 55 seconds remaining, but did not get a quality look with the extra attacker. There was a face-off in the St. Norbert defensive zone with five seconds left, but the Green Knights won the draw and ran out the clock.

After Adrian's Chris Stansik opened the scoring with a low shot from the right circle at 10:14 of the first period, St. Norbert's offense got rolling. Cody Keefer's wrister from the right slot squared the game at 1-1 at the 17:52 mark of the first.

Dustin Walz's blast from the blue line for his first goal of the season put St. Norbert ahead 2-1 at 2:07 of the second. Matt Boyd answered 1:14 later when he finished off a pretty passing combination with assists from Tyler Allen and Shane Wheeler. Brandon Longley then found himself in the right place at the 8:56 mark, when a centering pass from Mike Bernardy found Longley's chest-level stick and was redirected in for a 4-1 lead.

The Green Knights dodged a major bullet midway through the third period when they had to kill off a 5-on-3 Adrian power play. St. Norbert's Dylan Exton was called for elbowing at 8:52 and Walz followed with a cross-check at 9:49. The Green Knights killed the first penalty and then Dahlinger was slapped with an interference penalty at 11:12 to send the action to 4-on-4.

St. Norbert, which had two assists from Alain Joanette, outshot Adrian 31-19 and held a 4-3 shots edge in the third period.

B.J. O'Brien made 16 saves for St. Norbert, which was 0-for-3 on the power play.

Adrian was 1-for-3 on the power play. Fogal made 27 stops for the Bulldogs, including 14 in the first period.

Adrian cracks NCAA D-III tourney field

The 2010 NCAA Division III Men's Ice Hockey Tournament pairings were released on Sunday evening and the Adrian Bulldogs (24-3-0), winners of the MCHA, will travel to St. Norbert College (21-3-3) to face-off against the winners of the NCHA Wednesday night at 8:00 p.m. EST.

This will be the first NCAA appearance for the Bulldogs in its third season of existence. St. Norbert is no stranger to the NCAA Tournament, as they were national runner-up in 2004 and 2006, while winning the 2008 Division III national title. They have also finished third twice. The Green Knights will be making their 11th trip to the national tournament with an all-time record of 12-9-1.

Adrian finally is where they felt they have belonged for the past two seasons. The Bulldogs were not included in the tournament as an at-large team despite the best winning percentage over the past two years in Division III. This year was the first season that the MCHA had an automatic qualifier for the winner of the Harris Cup. The Bulldogs won their third straight Harris Cup with a dramatic 3-2 win on Saturday afternoon against Marian University.

St. Norbert captured the Peters Cup championship on Saturday night with a convincing 7-1 victory at home against Wisconsin-River Falls. The Green Knights are the top-seed in the West Region for the eighth time in the last nine years. St. Norbert is also 12-1-1 at their home rink, the Cornerstone Community Center.

"We are very excited to be playing on Wednesday against one of the best programs in the country," said Adrian head coach Ron Fogarty. "Our guys are ready for the challenge and this is the opportunity we have wanted."

Kuzyk a Humanitarian Award finalist

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

Seven finalists are up for the 2010 BNY Mellon Wealth Management Hockey Humanitarian Award.

The group includes Colgate senior Ethan Cox, Amherst senior Kirsten Dier, Alaska senior Dion Knelsen, Adrian junior Sam Kuzyk, Williams senior Zachary Miller, Connecticut College junior Brigid O’Gorman and Denver senior Brandon Vossberg.

The award, given annually to the college hockey player what most personifies community spirit through leadership, effort and time, will be named on April 9 at Ford Field in Detroit.

Following is a brief bio on Kuzyk as provided by the Hockey Humanitarian Award administration:

Adrian’s hockey program is in only its third season of existence, but if Kuzyk is any indication, the Bulldogs are already doing things right.

And so is Kuzyk, who in short order has become a leader in the community. No matter his impressive on-ice stats, the Winnipeg, Manitoba, native is scoring his most valuable points by helping those less fortunate in and around Adrian. Earlier this year, taking a cue from something he and his family did back home, he organized an effort to support a local family of five through the Salvation Army. He and his teammates bought food and toys for the family’s three children.

“We got together a pretty good package,” said Kuzyk. “I really hope it made a difference for them.”

Sam has also interned at a center for the disabled; reads to local students; and organized a Help Hockey Heal Hunger food drive, a two-day event which raised 267 items for a local food pantry.

“Michigan has endured tough economic times,” Kuzyk observed. “It puts everything at a premium — even food — something a lot of us take for granted.”

Photo courtesy Adrian College Athletics

Adrian tabbed No. 1 in MCHA poll

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

Adrian College has been selected as the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association's No. 1 hockey team for the second-straight season, according to the league's 2009-10 preseason coaches poll released recently by the league office.

The Bulldogs received 49 points, garnering all possible first-place votes from the leagues eight head coaches (coaches could not vote for their own team).

They are now 53-4-1 after two seasons and have claimed the past two MCHA regular season and Harris Cup titles.

The Bulldogs spent the campaign in the national polls and found themselves No. 9 in the final poll of the year. They gave the MCHA a serious candidate for an at-large spot in the NCAA Tournament at the end of the season as well.

AC had the top three scorers in the country for the second-straight season in Shawn Skelly (65 points on an NCAA-best 30G and 35A), Eric Miller (52 points on 18G/34A) and Adam Krug (52 points on 22G/30A) and led the nation in wining percentage (.948).

Adrian also had the nation's highest-scoring offense for the second-straight year at 6.52 goals per game (second was 4.96 gpg) and carries a 26-game winning streak into the new campaign.

Adrian gets commitment from DCD star

By Dan O'Meara • ECCENTRIC STAFF WRITER

Country Day High School senior Blake Fielder plans to take an already distinguished hockey career to the next level of competition.

Fielder, who led the Yellow Jackets in scoring for four years and served as their team captain this year, has accepted an offer to play for the Adrian College Bulldogs.

He scored 17 goals and had 24 assists the past season, earning all-state honors for the second year in a row and helping Country Day post a 10-14-1 record.

Fielder, who finished a four-year varsity career with 74 goals and 85 assists, was recognized for more than his ability to score points.

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MiCHO Wednesday Tidbits

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

Here's a smattering of news from across Michigan's hockey programs.

Lake Superior State - USA Hockey hires alum, new radio deal

http://lssulakers.com/sports/m-hockey/2008-09/news/martel-ken
http://lssulakers.com/sports/m-hockey/2008-09/news/radio_partner

Michigan - Voting starts for NHL All-Star Team

http://mgoblue.com/ice-hockey/article.aspx?id=176900

Northern Michigan - '09-10 schedule is out

http://webb.nmu.edu/SportsAthletics/Sports/MensHockey/News.shtml?articleID=108006&team=&display=short&category=&IsNewsBureau

Adrian - MCHA to get auto-bid

http://adrianbulldogs.cstv.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/041409aaa.html

Adrian takes home Harris Cup - again

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

The Adrian Bulldogs made easy work of the Milwaukee School of Engineering on Sunday afternoon, 7-1, and in the process hoisted the Harris Cup as the MCHA postseason tournament winner for the second year in a row.

Adrian (27-1-1) entered the tournament a heavy favorite and did not disappoint in front of the home fans at Arrington Ice Arena.

The first eight minutes were played evenly as both teams did not take too many chances and were feeling each other out on the big stage. Adrian broke into the scoring column at the 12-minute mark of the first period as Adam Krug scored his 22nd goal of the season with assists from Quinn Waller and Eric Miller. That goal really seemed to open the floodgates for the Bulldogs, who scored three more goals over the next 4:28 to end the period up, 4-0.

Brad Houston's 16th goal of the season at 13:09 on a nice pass from Joel Workman made it 2-0. Mike Dahlinger was left alone in front of the net and buried a wrist shot in the top left corner of the net at 14:33 at even strength to make it 3-0. Dahlinger's 15th goal was assisted by Mike Leone and Reed Renaud. Waller added a power-play goal on a 5-on-3 situation at 17:28 for his third goal of the year with assists from Miller and Krug.

Adrian made it 5-0 at the 10:37 mark of the second period as Houston went top shelf for his second goal of the game with an assist from Kyle Watson.

MSOE cut the lead to 5-1 as Matt Leitzan scored his first goal of the season off a rebound at 11:33.

Adrian added two more in the final period as Waller had his first multi-goal game of the year with another power play tally at 1:20 with an assist from Shawn Skelly. Sam Kuzyk ended the scoring at 5:57 of the third for his 11th goal of the year with assists from Dahlinger and Leone.

Adrian had five recipients on the MCHA All-Tournament Team including Krug, Waller, Houston, Miller and goaltender Brad Fogal. Miller was named the tournament MVP for his fine efforts.

Fogal made 22 saves as MSOE actually outshot Adrian, 28-25.

MSOE was 0-for-5 on the power play, while Adrian was 2-for-5.

The MCHA conference does not have an automatic bid into the Division III Tournament, so Adrian will have to wait until next Sunday to learn if they earned an at-large bid to the tournament.

*********************************************************

The MCHA announced its postseason awards last Friday night at the annual conference banquet hosted by Adrian College. The Bulldogs swept the major awards as sophomore Shawn Skelly was named Player of the Year and head coach Ron Fogarty was named Coach of the Year.

Skelly followed up Adam Krug, who won Player of the Year honors last season. Skelly had a really remarkable season leading the MCHA with 47 points including 23 goals and 24 assists. Skelly led the MCHA in goals, assists and power play points (26). Skelly also had five game-winning goals in the conference.

Krug was again named to the All-Conference Team along with forward Eric Miller, defensemen Chris Stansik and Quinn Waller and goaltender Brad Fogal.

Krug was second in the league with 33 points including 13 goals and 20 assists. He ranked second in goals, third in assists and tied for third in power-play points (15). Stansik led all MCHA defensemen with 25 points, including seven goals and 18 assists. Waller ranked tied for second in defensemen scoring with 20 points. He had two goals and 18 assists.

Miller ranked third in the conference in scoring with 30 points including 11 goals and 19 assists. Miller tied for third in goals and tied for fourth in assists. He did all of this while missing four conference games. Fogal led goaltenders in all statistical categories. Fogal had a 1.22 goals-against average, a .944 save percentage and went 19-0 in net.

Fogarty was named Coach of the Year for the first time as Adrian went 20-0 during the regular season to set an MCHA record.

The All-Academic team was also announced:
Eric Bailen
Jeremy Cross
Mike Fiorillo
Zach Galia
Bobby Hineman
Rob Hodnicki
Brad Houston
Jeremy Klaver
Adam Krug
Sam Kuzyk
Eric Roman
Chris Stansik
Mike Towns
Quinn Waller
Kyle Watson
Joel Workman

Photo by David Pearcy

Adrian tabbed No. 1 in MCHA poll

Adrian College has been selected as the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association's No. 1 team, according to the league's 2008-09 preseason coaches poll.

The Bulldogs received 49 points, garnering all possible first-place votes from the league's eight head coaches (coaches could not vote for their own team). Adrian had arguably the greatest season ever for a first-year NCAA program last season, going 26-3-0 in winning MCHA regular season and Harris Cup titles.

The Bulldogs spent most of the campaign in the national polls and found themselves No. 9 in the final poll of the year. Not only did they lose no seniors from last year's squad, but they are set to return the top three point-producers at the NCAA D-III level last year in captain Adam Krug (77 points on 30g/47a), Shawn Skelly (74 points on 30g/44a) and Eric Miller (69 points on 29a and an NCAA-best 40g).

Adrian also had the nation's highest-scoring offense at 7.59 goals per game (second was 4.88 gpg) and carries a 20-game winning streak into the new campaign.

Trio of Lions sign professional deals

Compiled by MiCHO Staff

Three Finlandia players from last season's team are moving up to the professional level as forwards Travis Hanson, Josh Paquette and Ryan Sullivan have earned professional contracts for the upcoming season.

Hanson (Bark River) was re-signed by the Cincinnati Cyclones, an ECHL team affiliated with the NHL’s Nashville Predators and Montreal Canadiens. He was originally signed after the MCHA tournament last season and helped lead the Cyclones to a league championship when they defeated Las Vegas. He was a team captain at FU for two years, recording 58 points (25g, 33a) in 103 career games.

“Travis has worked very hard to create this opportunity,” Finlandia head coach Joe Burcar said. “The Cyclones were looking for a big, strong player to win battles on the wall, they called him in last spring and he made an immediate impact in helping win the ECHL championship.”

Paquette, a Marquette native, has been signed by the New Mexico Scorpions, a team in the Central Hockey League. He rewrote the MCHA record book, setting new career marks with 47 goals, 83 assists and 130 points last season. Overall in his career, he tallied 152 points (51g, 101a) in 105 games. He was named to the all-conference team on two occasions and to the all-newcomer team as a freshman, leading the Lions to a Harris Cup championship as a junior and to a second straight title game appearance a year ago.

“Josh is a very gifted player with his ability to score in any given situation,” Burcar said. “He has been able to score at every level he has played and will make the transition as a professional player very smoothly.”

Sullivan, also from Marquette, will join Paquette on the roster of the Scorpions. The Lions' team MVP a year ago, he was also an all-conference performer on the ice, recording 88 points (50g, 38a) in 82 career games.

“Ryan is ready for the next level; he is very complete in his game,” said Burcar. “We have used Ryan in every situation and he has excelled. The bigger the game, the better Ryan is.”

All three Finlandia players were also regulars on the MCHA All-Academic Team.

“We will miss all three of these players; they have brought so much to Finlandia hockey," added Burcar. "We wish them great success.”