Warriors Heading Home

CHA Rookie of the
Year Stavros Paskaris

Wayne State's senior class was its freshmen class back in 2002-03, when the Warriors earned their third straight College Hockey America title and their first NCAA tournament automatic bid.

The past two years have yielded little as far as postseason play, but the class of 2006 has aspirations of returning to the winner's circle this season.

"We have the same outlook every year and that's to win our league tournament and get to the NCAAs," senior goalie Matt Kelly said. "We've won it in the past and ultimately we'd like to get back there. This is my last year around here, so it'd be nice to go out on top."

Last year, an overtime goal by Theo Zacour advanced Air Force past WSU at the CHA tournament in Grand Rapids, Minn. Next March, the tournaments (men's and women's CHA) will be held at WSU's "new" home rink, the Michigan State Fairgrounds Coliseum in Detroit. The Coliseum was Wayne State's home during its inaugural 1999-2000 campaign.

Kelly, a co-captain along with senior defenseman Greg Poupard, heads a four-member senior class that also includes defenseman Steve Kovalchik and forward John May. Incoming freshmen are also at a low as the Warriors have only five newcomers and two redshirt freshmen arriving in the Motor City.

Forward Jon Grabarek won a United States Hockey League Clark Cup championship last season with the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders and defenseman Matt Krug, kid brother of sophomore forward Adam, won a North American Hockey League Gold Cup title with the Texas Tornado.

"Jon Grabarek will be a very talented freshman for us," WSU head coach Bill Wilkinson said. "Matt Krug will have to prove his ability for playing time. Krug has a good upside with his offensive skills and tenacity. He has a knack for big-time open-ice hits."

But with the players back and the seniors that were a part of the title run in 2003, there's no reason to believe Wayne State can't make noise in conference play.

Sophomore Stavros Paskaris led the team in scoring last season and earned CHA rookie of the year honors as well. Paskaris said that while the team has made improvements, the Warriors shouldn't be taken for granted.

"I don't think anyone should count us out," said Paskaris. "We've set our goals high and we have a good chance this year. We only lost a couple guys from last year and it's always hard losing guys, but our freshman class has some good players and should turn some heads."

The only losses for the Warriors are defenseman Mark Bradshaw, a freshman last year who wasn't medically cleared to return this year due to concussion problems, and John Grubb, a forward whose four years at WSU were riddled with injuries. Defenseman A.J. Bozoian also joined the team last year, but is not back this season.

Forwards Tylor Michel, Jason Baclig, Mike Forgie, Mark Cannon, Nate Higgins, John May, Mark Nebus and Ryan Wright all return along with defenders Matt Boldt, Adam Drescher and Dan Iliakis. John Nogatch will sit out this year after transferring from Lake Superior State.

After posting a 7-9-4 mark in CHA play in 2004-05, WSU obviously wants to put a couple more in the win column. And a great deal of how that happens depends on who is in goal for Wayne State. Kelly started the majority of games, but Will Hooper, a transfer from Findlay, saw action in 14 contests.

"My mindset is to go out and win games," said Kelly. "If it's Will in net or me in net, it doesn't matter to me. I just want to go out there and have fun and if we win games, I'll be a happy camper."

"We have a pretty good one-two punch in goal," said Wilkinson. "Matt has the upper hand heading into camp, but our hope is that Will continues to push him because Matt's a good competitor."

Also back is junior forward Jason Bloomingburg, a recent record-setter for WSU. Last year in his first year in Detroit after transferring from Providence, Bloomingburg potted a school-record 20 goals, shattering the old mark of 18 set by Dusty Kingston in 2000-01.

Classmate Taylor Donohoe, a steady defender, won't put up Bloomingburg-type numbers, but last year knocked cold two players — Nebraska-Omaha's Bryan Marshall and Air Force captain Matt Bader.

Schedule-wise, Wayne State has a tough nonconference docket. The Warriors play road games at Clarkson (Oct. 28-29), Union (Nov. 25-26), Michigan State (Jan. 6-7) and Northern Michigan (Feb. 3-4) and will play in two tournaments — the Lefty McFadden Invitational in Dayton, Ohio, on Oct. 8-9 and the Badger Showdown in Madison, Wis., on Dec. 30-31. The lone home non-league contests are Dec. 9-10 versus Merrimack.

"The CHA looks interesting and tight this year," added Kelly. "Every game counts. If you get swept in a weekend, you could fall a couple spots, but if you win both, you could go anywhere."

Wayne State gets going with three exhibition games against ACHA powerhouse Oakland University on Oct. 4 and Oct. 19 and also against Guelph (Ont.) on Oct. 13. Sandwiched between those games are games against Michigan State and Miami at the Lefty McFadden.

WHO’S GONE
John Grubb F
Mark Bradshaw D
A.J. Bozoian D

WHO’S NEW
Jon Grabarek F
Matt Krug D
Josh Jasek-Jepson F
Derek Punches F
Adam Smith F

Stavros Paskaris photo courtesy of Mark Hicks / WestSide Photography
Story originally posted by Matt Mackinder on USCHO.com

Wayne State Women Look to Have Most Dominant Year Yet

Wayne State Women's Preview 2005-2006

The Wayne State Women’s Hockey team has been steadily improving over coach Jim Fetter’s three years behind the bench. The 2005-06 unit is poised to take the team’s accomplishments to a new level.

"My staff and I are extremely excited about the upcoming season,” shares Fetter. “We believe our players bring the right mix of experience and talent to produce some impressive results both on and off the ice."

Fetter has the luxury of returning fourteen letterwinners from last season’s 13-17-3 (6-6-0 CHA) effort, including his entire defensive unit. The combination of experience and skill will likely produce potent results: seniors Rachel Benninger, assistant captain Peyton Patterson, Kristi Thome; and sophomore Sarah Campbell—-an all-CHA pick last season—-will lead the shut-down effort. Freshman blueliner Tina Vahnderhoeven will join this solid veteran corps.

While the defensive unit may produce quality with few surprises, the goaltender slot, while not lacking in quality, may be more of a question mark. Following the graduation of Tina Thibideau, sophomores Valery Torcotte and Tiffany Thompson will jockey for the position. While Torcotte has significantly more playing time under her belt and will likely be considered the team’s starter, the improvement efforts of Thompson cannot be ignored. “Val brings an immense amount of talent to our program and we are confident that she will have a breakout season.” Fetter recognizes. “Tiffany has worked extremely hard to put herself in a position to push for playing time and we are looking forward to having a solid goaltending tandem." Local freshman Stephanie Rees (Westland) will round out the netminder roster.

Offense is the area where the Warriors will feel graduation the most. The largest loss is unquestionably Kelly Zamora-—a 6-0 powerhouse of a forward who holds the school's all-time scoring record. Additionally, Heidi Burns and Cheryl Anderson made significant contributions as well. But Fetter is confident that the mix of returning and new players will produce unprecedented results for the Warriors. "This is definitely the most talented offensive unit we have put together since coming to Wayne State," he claims. "Our returnees bring a great wealth of experience and determination to this year's team. We are looking for huge seasons from our veteran forwards, as their example will be so important to getting our freshman settled into WSU Hockey.”

These veterans include senior captain Jessica Snelgrove (4-8-12 last season), sophomore assistant captain Ashley King (11-1-12 last season), and junior Laura Monk. Monk led the Warriors in goals during her sophomore effort (13-15-28), en route to earning All-CHA honors. At 6-0, Monk will be an effective role model for two incoming freshman in particular--not just on goal-scoring, but on how to use height and strength to effectively increase the offensive impact "Both Katrina Fenton and Sam Poyton have the size (6-1 and 5-10, respectively) and strength to be physically dominating college hockey players and they will be counted on to make immediate impacts," recognizes Fetter.

Fetter also cites the other three incoming forwards as critical parts of the Warrior effort: "Lindsay DiPietro is the quintessential three-zone player and we are excited to see her contribute to our offensive creativity. We are looking for Melissa Boal and Amanda Hungle to provide the scoring touch that we have lacked in the past.”

The potential of the Warriors has not gone unnoticed—-they sit high in the CHA preseason poll, sharing the #2 slot with Niagara. They won’t face Niagara until February, but they will contend with projected league leader Mercyhurst in mid-January.

The Warriors will open on the road October 7-8 against Bemidji State. A win could provide a valuable spark for the team’s unity: they haven’t defeated Bemidji since 2001.

Their home opener will be October 14 against St. Lawrence.


WHO’S GONE
Kelly Zamora F
Heidi Burns F
Cheryl Anderson F
Krissy Langley F
Tina Thibideau G

WHO’S NEW
Melissa Boal F
Lindsay DiPietro F
Katrina Fenton F
Amanda Hungle F
Sam Poyton F
Tina Vanderhoeven D
Stephanie Rees G

Season outlook bright for Wildcats

Northern captains clockwise from top left: Contois, Bateman, Waugh, Oystrick (C)

2005-2006 Northern Michigan Season Preview
by Brandon Craig

Hockey is back. With the NHL now in full swing again, it's time to get back to college hockey--Wildcat style. Coach Walt Kyle's Northern Michigan University Wildcats will open the season with a pair of exhibition games this weekend in Marquette to kick off the 2005-06 season.

Northern will return to the college hockey scene a strong nucleus of players, both returners and newcomers and will be force to reckon with in the CCHA as well as other leagues. NMU has been picked to finish 3rd in both the CCHA pre-season media poll and the pre-season coaches poll, even garnering a 1st place vote in the former. NMU even has been picked 12th overall in the USCHO national pre-season poll.

The Wildcats return stand out forwards Darin Olver, Andrew Contois, Pat Bateman, Mike Santorelli and Dirk Southern and defensively Nathan Oystrick, Geoff Waugh and Zach Tarkir to name a few. Coach Kyle has named D Nathan Oystrick team captain for the second straight year. Geoff Waugh, Pat Bateman and Andrew Contois will be co-captains.

The biggest question mark remains in net. With the departure of Finnish sensation Tuomas Tarkki, a finalist for last year's Hobey Baker award, the time will most likely be split between top starter Bill Zaniboni (now in his second year) and newcomer Derek Janzen, said to be one of the top 5 incoming freshmen icers in the nation.

At this year's CCHA pre-season media day in Detroit, coach Kyle had good things to say about this years Wildcat Hockey squad.

“We’re real excited in Marquette for the season to begin,” said Kyle. “I think that we feel that we had a good run the last half of last year, and really made some strides in becoming the type of team that we want to become.”

A new face behind the bench this year will be John Olver, recently named assistant coach of the Wildcats after the departure of Dave Schyiak, who left Marquette to take the head coaching reigns at the University of Alaska-Anchorage. Olver is the father of NMU center Darin Olver and will work with forwards. Olver comes from the Idaho Steelheads of the ECHL where he not only was bench boss but also team vice president. In 2004, the Steelheads took the Kelly Cup championship for that league under his leadership.

This season will prove to be an exciting one in Marquette as well as on the road to Joe Louis Arena next March.

The Wildcats start their season with the US National Under 18 team coming to town on October 7 followed by York University (Toronto , Ont.) on October 8. NMU will start the regular season October 14-15 in Marquette playing host to St. Cloud State. Northern will open league play October 28-29 with a home and home series against U.P. league rival Lake Superior State.

WHO'S GONE:
G Tuomas Tarkki
F Kevin Gardner
F Alan Swanson

WHO'S NEW:
G Derek Jansen
D Derek May
F Nathan Sigmund
D Spencer Dillon
F Nick Sirota

Lake Superior State Season Preview

Senior LSSU forward Jon Booras

Jim Roque takes over the Lake Superior State coaching reins from the departed Frank Anzalone and inherits a Lakers team that went 9-22-7 a year ago and won just 32 games over the past four years under Anzalone in his second tour of duty at LSSU.

Roque was an assistant under Anzalone and was hired as the permanent head coach over the summer. Former Soo Indians (NAHL) head coach Joe Shawhan is also aboard as an assistant coach along with the returning Tim Christian.

The Lakers lost just three seniors from last season and brought in seven freshmen. Forward Bo Cheesman and defenseman Ryan Reid graduated along with goalie Matt Violin.

"Our team returns a lot of experience,” said Rowue. “Obviously, we have a proven goaltender in Jeff Jakaitis, and I think our defense is sound.”

Jakaitis will be LSSU’s No. 1 goalie this year after going 5-18-4 last season, but with a respectable 2.85 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage. With Violin having graduated, senior William Ciccone and freshman Vince Wheeler will battle for the backup role.

In front of Jakaitis, seniors Mark Adamek, Alex Dunn (Waterford), Ren Fauci, Eric Hill (Sault Ste. Marie), Kory Scoran and captain Steve McJannett are all back on the back end along with junior Barnabas Birkeland and sophomores Derek Smith and Justin Gutwald (Grosse Pointe). Freshmen Marty Gurnoe (Sault Ste. Marie) and Matt Wheeler also join the fray. John Nogatch left the team midway through last season to play juniors with the Northern Michigan Black Bears and is now sitting out a year at Wayne State to become eligible next fall.

The Lake Superior forwards may pose a question mark for the time being, however.

“I think our biggest challenge is to score goals,” said Roque. “We feel some guys throughout our lineup have that kind of ability. I think they just need to be given the opportunity to try and showcase their ability to score some goals. That will be one of our biggest challenges without giving up some of the defensive play we have had over the past few years.”

Senior Jon Booras led the Lakers in scoring last season and is back to build on his ten-goal total from 2004-2005. Fellow seniors Mike Adamek, Colin Nicholson, B.J. Pelkey and Nathan Ward are back in town along with juniors Trent Campbell, Dominic Osman (Dearborn), Jeffrey Rainville, Matt Restoule and Derek R. Smith. Lone sophomore Dan Eves (Lake Orion) is also back in Sault Ste. Marie to welcome in freshmen Tom Knutson, Jason Miller, Troy Schwab and Josh Sim.

"We look forward to a great season in Sault Ste. Marie,” Roque added. “We have a lot of challenges in front of us, but we look forward to it.”

Lake Superior State's largest senior class in school history will take to the ice for the first time this season when the Lakers play host to York (Ont.) University and the U.S. Under-18 Team in exhibition games this weekend.


WHO’S GONE
F Bo Cheesman (signed with Wheeling – ECHL)
D Ryan Reid (signed with Gwinnett – ECHL)
G Matt Violin (signed with Vancouver)

WHO’S NEW
F Tom Knutson (CD Selects – EJHL)
F Jason Miller (Humboldt – SJHL)
F Troy Schwab (Kindersley – SJHL)
F Josh Sim (Kindersley – SJHL)
D Marty Gurnoe (Soo – NAHL)
D Matt Wheeler (Weyburn – SJHL)
G Vince Wheeler (Bancroft – OPJHL)

Walton Returns to Lead Broncos to Improvement

Senior WMU forward Brent Walton

Western Michigan Preview 2005-2006

The Western Michigan hockey team is not known for striking fear into the hearts of its opponents. With last season's record of 14-21-2 (8-18-2 CCHA), the media and coaches of the CCHA appear to believe that trend will continue, ranking the Broncos 10th and 12th in their respective polls.

Head coach Jim Culhane had this perception of his team in mind when he recruited Matt Clackson, a tough enforcer who struck plenty of fear into the hearts of his USHL opponents last season: he amassed the all-time league record in penalty minutes. "Matt possesses one of the elements we need to improve upon as a team, and that's grit and determination," reflected Culhane. "He's a big, physical player who is willing to pay the price in front of the net and battle in the corners to provide scoring opportunities for his teammates."

Clackson anchors a freshman class of nine--four defensemen, five forwards, and goalie Ryan Mensing--who will look to integrate themselves into the Bronco unit.

The rookies have some significant shoes to fill: an offensive void will need to be filled following the graduation of Vince Bellissimo, who contributed thirty-seven points (17-20), including seven power play goals and two short-handed goals. The Broncos will also doubtlessly miss playmaker Pat Dwyer, who contributed twenty-two points (6-16) to the Broncos last year.

Fortunately for Western, they have some of last year's standouts back for another go. None is more valuable that senior Brent Walton, who amassed a team-leading fifty points last season (21-29) and finished 6th overall in NCAA scoring. "[Walton] had a tremendous offensive season for us last year, nationally and within the league," comments Culhane. Walton was also recently named to the CCHA preseason All-Conference second team.

Other returning Broncos of note include assistant captain Paul Szczechura, a junior who excelled last season with six goals and twenty-three assists. Additionally, sophomores Brian Bicek and Jeff Pierce may be factors on special teams: Pierce had six power play goals last year; Bicek contribute three power play goals and one shorthanded goal.

A final key factor for the Broncos, considering their large freshman class and desire to become a more prominent and respected CCHA team, will be leadership. Culhane speaks highly of senior captain Mike Erickson: "I think Mike has outstanding leadership qualities and he will be called upon quite frequently this upcoming season due to the fact that we have a very young team." In addition to setting a consistent off-ice example, Erickson will also look to be a scoring leader, building on last year's twenty-four point season.

While the Broncos will have their hands full with their usual CCHA foes, they will also have tough games against Bemidji State and Colgate. Further, they will compete in the Badger Showdown this December; they anticipate facing University of Wisconsin in the first round. Another season highlight will be the season opener, when the Broncos host Robert Morris. This game will have special significance for the Broncos as former WMU defenseman Derek Schooley will be behind the bench for Robert Morris.

WHO'S GONE
Vince Bellissimo F (AHL, Carolina Hurricanes system)
Pat Dwyer F (AHL, Chicago Wolves)
Jim McNamara D (ECHL, Phoenix)
Kyle Bushee
Mat Ponto
Trevor Cook
Jeff Kyrzakos

WHO'S NEW
Ryan Mensing G (MJAHL)
Chris Frank D (BCHL)
Steve Silver D (Brighton) (NAHL)
Tyler Ludwig D (NAHL)
Kevin O'Connor (Trenton) (USHL)
Matt Clackson F (USHL)
Dave Krisky F (BCHL)
Jeff Lovecchio F (USHL)
Patrick Galivan F (NAHL)
Sean Weaver F (BCHL)

With Potent Incoming Class, Ferris State Looks to Counter Low Expectations

Incoming Ferris State freshman Dan Riedel

Ferris State Preview, 2005-2006

Last season, the Ferris State Bulldogs boasted an unimpressive record of 13-22-4 (7-17-4, CCHA). Their sub-par performance was reflected in the low rankings they earned coming into the 2005-2006 season. Slated to finish 10th by the CCHA Coaches’ Poll and 12th by the CCHA media poll, the Bulldogs could easily be staring down a long and dismal losing season.

However, despite dire forecasts (and graduating seven seniors), Ferris could be a surprise sleeper team this year. The Bulldogs return eighteen lettermen and welcome eight incoming players—a class that Inside College Hockey deemed the tenth best recruiting class in the nation.

The class of 2009 is led by forward Dan Riedel of Rochester Hills. Reidel was named USHL Forward of the Year last season and led that league in points. Four additional new forwards will look to help Reidel contribute to the Bulldogs’ offensive efforts. On defense,Waterford native Chris Zarb, ranked as within the top fifteen incoming defensemen, is projected to make an immediate impact on the blue line. Ferris also replaced graduating goaltender Mike Brown with Central Junior ‘A’ Hockey League (CJHL) standout Mitch O’Keefe, who holds the CJHL record for most shutouts and was named league MVP last season.

The newbies won’t be the sole supporters of the Ferris squad – they will be contributing to a corps of strong returning players. Captain Adam Welch is only a sophomore, but the defenseman has a strong season behind him, and was named Ferris’s Rookie of the Year last season. He will be assisted by senior forward Nick Scheible.

On offense, the Bulldogs expect solid performances by juniors Zac Pearson, Matt Verdone and Mark Bomersback, sophomore Matt Stefanishion and senior Greg Rallo. Welch and junior Joe Van Culin will anchor the defense. In goal, sophomore Derek MacIntyre will build on his freshman performance, where he established a 3.19 GAA and a .880 save percentage.

Coach Bob Daniels, returning for his thirteenth season behind the Bulldogs bench, has laid out an ambitious schedule for his team. In addition to the consistently competitive action they will face in the CCHA, the Bulldogs will have the opportunity to test their skills against some storied eastern programs. They will open their season at the Mutual Omaha Stampede, where they will be matched with the University of New Hampshire in the first round. And later this winter, they will face off against Boston College in the first round of the Wells Fargo Denver Cup.

In a league filled with powerhouses like Michigan and Ohio State, an underdog like Ferris is easy to overlook – but with solid veterans and an exciting incoming class, this team may have more bite than anticipated.


WHO’S GONE
Jeff Legue F
Derek Nebitt F
Skip Renauld F
Carter Thomson F
Matt York D
Mike Brown G

WHO’S NEW
Dan Riedel F (Rochester Hills) (USHL)
Justin Lewandowski F (USHL)
Brendan Connolly F (AJHL)
J.T. Dahlinger F (Grosse Pointe Park) (WOJHL)
Corey Couturier F (Traverse City) (USHL)
Evan Case D (Grosse Pointe Woods) (NAHL)
Chris Zarb D (Waterford) (USHL)
Mitch O’Keefe G (CJHL)

Riedel photo courtesy of Robert Meyer

Wayne State powers past OU, 8-0

Junior Jason Bloomingburg potted a pair for WSU

It was a sweet homecoming five years in the making for Wayne State.

When the Warriors started their program in 1999-2000, they called the Michigan State Fairgrounds Coliseum home. That would be the only year they would play in the city of Detroit until this past summer when the university inked a three-year contract to return back to the Coliseum.

And even though their 8-0 win Tuesday night over the Oakland University club team, national runners-up last year and national champions in 2004, was only an exhibition win, it gave the Warriors time to tweak a few things as they ready for regular season play this weekend.

“Conditioning,” WSU head coach Bill Wilkinson said when asked about what a game like this helps the players work on. “The arena was very warm and it made the guys have to work for everything they got. Oakland’s a very good hockey team, as their record shows, but they’re a team that we should beat 8-0.”

Jon Grabarek, Jason Bloomingburg and John May all scored two goals for Wayne State, who used all three of their goalies. Jason Baclig and Mike Forgie tallied the others. Grabarek and May each had two assists, as did Adam Krug and Tylor Michel.

Golden Grizzlies goalie Chris Joswiak made 40 saves in goal for OU. For the Warriors, Matt Kelly stopped 11 in 29:46, Will Hooper made seven stops in 22:07 and seldom-used Kevin Bonikowski did not see a shot in the final 8:07 of the third period.

Though defeated, Oakland was not despondent after the game.

“There’s a reason why those guys over there are on scholarships and my guys pay to play,” OU first-year head coach Sean Hogan said. “We had our chances, and maybe if we score on one or two of them, it’s a different game. I’m not saying we’d win, but it might not have been 8-0.”

"We've still got a ways to go," admitted Wilkinson. "I didn't approach this game as I would a league game, but we wanted to work on some new systems and put them into a game scenario."

This weekend, WSU travels to Dayton, Ohio, to play in the Lefty McFadden Invitational with Michigan State, Miami and North Dakota. Oakland plays a pair at home against Robert Morris College’s club team.

Story courtesy USCHO.com

Photo courtesy Mark Hicks/WestSide Photo.

Michigan Tech Season Preview

Senior forward Chris Conner

Well fans, the time is here, the leaves are falling along with the temperatures and there is a renewed hope for many hockey fans in the Houghton area. Friday marks the start of the college hockey season for our Michigan Tech Huskies and we are all ready to get this going.

Jamie Russell and the rest of the coaching staff have done all they can to get the Huskies back on the right path. Russell is in his third season as the head of the Huskies and is looking to improve on their last place finish from a year ago. If predictions have anything to do with it, they will be in eighth. INCH writer Jess Meyers has the Huskies at 8 and so did the coaches Tuesday on the annual pre-season conference call.

When Russell was asked why fans should be excited, he simply referenced the teams success during the second half of last season. Want more reasons? Offensively the Huskies will be returning nine of their top 10 scorers from a year ago, including standout defenseman Lars Helminen and electrifying forward Chris Conner. The power play was one of the best in the league last year and looks like it could be as good or better this year. Starting the year, look for Brandon Schwartz and Helminen at the point, Conner and Nick Anderson on the wings and Tyler Shelast in the center - four of the same five from last year.

What's new? A lot. MTU will be young again as they current roster is made up of 10 freshmen, most of who will be getting plenty of playing time early in the season. The recruiting has been improving each year, and this year looks to be the best since I have been tracking the Huskies.

What's missing? Colin Murphy and Cam Ellsworth. Murphy will be missed as he was the leading assist man in the nation and a top 10 finalist for the Hobey Baker award last year. His leadership was a big part of keeping the team in the right direction last year, and will be missed. Ellsworth was the go to goalie for the entire second half of the season.

The biggest question for the Huskies this year has to be the goaltending, as Ellsworth graduated and Bryce Luker left to pursue other opportunities. This leaves the group with a total of two games experience in college. It will be up to Kevin Hachey (So.), Rob Nolan (Fr.), and Michael-Lee Teslak (Fr.) to fill the always important role as netminder. The two freshmen are both highly-touted recruits and will need to step up and play a big part right away.

Defense will be an area of concern again as the Huskies will be young. John Scott will also be out for the first 14 games of the year for off-season troubles. The bench will be short in this area, so look for Helminen to do double duty early in the year.

We will all find out what the Huskies have as the season starts this Friday against 2005 NCAA tournament participant Mercyhurst. This will be the first ever meeting of these two teams. Other big games for the Huskies are the NYE Frontier Classic October 14th and 15th, home and home with rival NMU the weekend after, the best holiday tournament around, the GLI over Christmas break and the Winter Carnival opponent Minnesota.

WHO'S GONE
F Colin Murphy (signed with St. John's - AHL)
F John Hartman
F Ryan Markham
D Clay Wilson
G Cam Ellsworth
D Brad Sullivan
G Bryce Luker

WHO'S NEW
F Ryan Angelow (OPJHL)
F Alex Gagne (BCHL)
D Geoff Kinrad (BCHL)
F Dered Kitti (NAHL)
F Alex Lord (Champlain College)
G Rob Nolan (AJHL)
D John Schwarz (AJHL)
G Michael-Lee Teslak (BCHL)
D Mike VanWagner (USHL)

Michigan State Season Preview

Spartans should be much improved
Slater will be hard to replace, though

By Matt Mackinder

Rick Comley is now in his fourth season behind Michigan State’s bench and this may be the most well-rounded team he’s had to work with since arriving in 2002.

Ranked to finish fourth in the pre-season CCHA media and coaches’ polls, Comley likes the prospects of being ranked in the top third of the conference.

"Anywhere in the top four is OK,” said Comley. “Your goal is obviously to do as well as you can do. Our goals are to finish in the top four, to get to Joe Louis and qualify for the NCAA tournament. And if we do those three things then you can raise your level of success. When an outsider looks at this team, were a team that has to get better as the year goes on and we will get better as the year goes on. We have balance and depth, and we have those question marks just like everybody else."

Replacing captain Jim Slater will be an issue as he oozed leadership and also scoring ability. A first-round pick of the Atlanta Thrashers in 2002, the Lapeer native signed with the Thrashers this past summer.

Also gone are forwards Mike Lalonde, Ash Goldie, Kevin Estrada, Tommy Goebel (transferred to Ohio State) and Adam Nightingale (Cheboygan) as well as goalies Matt Migliaccio (Wyandotte) and Rod Tocco (St. Clair Shores).

But the MSU freshmen should fill a number of holes this season. The Spartans, 20-17-4 overall and 12-13-3 in the CCHA a year ago, are bringing in nine first-year players, but perhaps none is as big as goalie Jeff Lerg.

Last year with the Omaha Lancers of the United States Hockey League, Lerg earned national junior player of the year honors and top goalie laurels. Lerg, from Livonia, will push junior Dominic Vicari (Clinton Township) for time.

Also new to East Lansing are forwards Justin Abdelkader (Muskegon), a Detroit Red Wings’ draft pick this past July, Tim Crowder, Tim Kennedy, Kurt Kivisto (Milford) and Nick Sucharski, defensemen Brandon Gentile (Clarkston) and Matt Shouneyia (Bloomfield Hills) and goaltender Steve Mnich (Northville).

"The chemistry in the room is really strong right now, everyone is pretty close and everyone is looking forward for the season to start and everyone wants to be here right now,” senior forward Colton Fretter said.

Junior captain Drew Miller, an East Lansing native, is also anxious to start the season. Being named captain as a junior, as Slater was, also carries with it pressure and expectations to help the team succeed. He explained what wearing the ‘C’ means to him.

"Getting the respect of your teammates right off the bat, being someone to look up to, someone who can lead but also is someone in the locker room to solve your problems,” said Miller. “It's not only on the ice and in the locker room, it’s also helping the freshman adjust to school, it’s different things like that."

Up front, MSU returns sophomores Bryan Lerg (Livonia), Jeff’s cousin, Zak McClellan (Frankenmuth), Jim McKenzie, Chris Mueller, Peder Skinner and Dan Sturges, juniors Tyler Howells, Chris Lawrence and seniors David Booth (Washington) and Chad Hontvet. Defensively, sophomores Ethan Graham, Jeff Dunne and Daniel Vukovic join juniors Chris Snavely and Brandon Warner and seniors Jared Nightingale (Cheboygan) and Corey Potter (Mason).

Defense should be a strong suit of MSU this year.

"I think that's one thing me and the other defensemen have been talking about, trying to have a little more grit and not letting guys take liberties around the net,” Graham said. “We want to try to make more of a presence around there and hopefully we can get that job done."

Even so, Comley is aware the Spartans will be closely watched this season.

"I can honestly say that there is no more pressure on me this year than since the day I walked onto this campus because you walk into pressure,” Comley said. “The bigger question to me is, are you going to win here? And I think the answer is yes. I feel pressure to do well, but that's what coaching is all about."

Michigan State plays their Green and White intersquad game Thursday and then travels to Dayton, Ohio, this weekend to play in the Lefty McFadden Invitational with Wayne State, North Dakota and host Miami.

WHO’S GONE
F Jim Slater (signed with Atlanta)
F Mike Lalonde (signed with Las Vegas – ECHL)
F Kevin Estrada (signed with Carolina)
F Adam Nightingale (signed with Greenville – ECHL)
G Matt Migliaccio (signed with Greenville - ECHL)
F Ash Goldie (signed with Long Beach - ECHL)
F Tommy Goebel (transferred to Ohio State)
G Rod Tocco

WHO’S NEW
F Justin Abdelkader (Cedar Rapids – USHL)
G Jeff Lerg (Omaha – USHL)
D Brandon Gentile (U.S. NTDP)
F Tim Crowder (South Surrey – BCHL)
F Tim Kennedy (Sioux City – USHL)
F Kurt Kivisto (Cleveland – NAHL)
D Matt Shouneyia (Cleveland – NAHL)
G Steve Mnich (Dallas (Tex.) midgets)

Michigan Wolverines Season Preview

Michigan senior captain Andrew Ebbett

Wolverines enter ’05-06 with 11 freshmen
U-M also has four-member senior class

By Matt Mackinder, Courtesy of Michigan Hockey

Even though Michigan graduated ten seniors from last year’s squad and lost three underclassmen to the NHL over the summer, the Wolverines still are mentioned as possible CCHA contenders and even get a mention as making noise in the NCAA Tournament if they get there.

The media and CCHA coaches all think the same thing, too, as both have the Wolverines, 31-8-3 overall a year ago and 23-3-2 in CCHA play, ranked second in the annual CCHA coaches’/media poll behind a strong Ohio State squad.

This season, U-M will be without stud goaltender Al Montoya and talented forward Jeff Tambellini, who signed with the New York Rangers and Los Angeles Kings, respectively, over the summer and gave up their senior years in Ann Arbor. Both were first-round picks with Tambellini going 27th overall in 2003 and Montoya getting picked sixth in 2004. Plugging forward Mike Brown, a junior-to-be, signed with the Vancouver Canucks as well.

The signings, though a sign Michigan is developing NHL-caliber players, had head coach Red Berenson in a ranting mood.

“It's a sad part of the game when money takes over and diverts top players before they can finish school,” said Berenson. “It has been Jeff Tambellini's dream to play at the top level and hopefully he can attain that. I wish he would have stayed for his senior season and had a great final year to finish his career. Jeff is a classy kid, a good student and a great player.”

Montoya nearly left last year, but held off due to the NHL lockout.

“It's disappointing to lose a player who is going into his senior year,” Berenson said. “He had a lot of pressure from the New York Rangers organization to turn professional and he made the decision to do it. He had a good career at Michigan, but I wish he would have stayed and enjoyed his senior year.”

Gone from last year’s class that nearly made it to the Frozen Four are forwards Eric Nystrom, Milan Gajic, Mike Woodford, Charlie Henderson (East Lansing), David Moss (Livonia) and Jason Ryznar, defensemen Nick Martens (Ann Arbor), Reilly Olson, Brandon Rogers and Eric Werner (Grosse Pointe Woods).

However, the incoming freshmen class is one that has made national headlines for its overall skill and talent. Defenseman Jack Johnson was the third-overall draft pick of the Carolina Hurricanes in July and was reportedly pressured by the Hurricanes to bypass college altogether and sign an NHL deal. Forward Andrew Cogliano went 25th overall to the Edmonton Oilers.

“I really like our incoming freshmen,” said Berenson, entering his 22nd year as head coach of the Wolverines. “We’ll have a new look and a lot of new faces. (Goalie Billy) Sauer will be tested early, but we look solid defensively with Johnson, (freshman Mark) Mitera (Livonia), Matt Hunwick and Jason Dest.”

Hunwick (Sterling Heights) and Dest (Fraser) are both juniors and are joined on the back end by senior transfer Adam Dunlap (from Boston University), junior Tim Cook and sometimes-forward sometimes-defenseman David Rohlfs (Northville), another junior.

Up front, senior captain Andrew Ebbett is back along with classmate Brandon Kaleniecki (Livonia), junior T.J. Hensick (Howell), sophomores Kevin Porter (Northville) and Chad Kolarik and freshmen Travis Turnbull, Zac MacVoy (Livonia), Tim Miller (Davisburg), 17-year-old Tyler Swystun, Jason Bailey, Brandon Naurato (Livonia) and Danny Fardig (Ann Arbor).

“I think T.J. is one of the most exciting players in college hockey,” boasted Berenson. “He’ll have some experience around him this year and we look forward to see what he can do.”

Sauer and Swystun are two of four 1988-born freshmen on NCAA rosters this year along with Jonathan Toews at North Dakota and Simon Danis Pepin at Maine. Sauer replaces Montoya as U-M’s No. 1 goaltender and, like Montoya, fast-tracked through high school in three years to be NCAA-ready. Senior Noah Ruden (Bloomfield Hills) and junior Mike Mayhew will battle for the backup role.

The Wolverines will also have their share of NHL draft picks on their roster. Hensick became property of Colorado in July and Bailey was taken by Anaheim. Hunwick (Boston), Porter (Phoenix), Rohlfs (Edmonton), Kolarik (Phoenix) and Cook (Ottawa) were taken in previous years.

But even without Montoya and Tambellini, two of the team’s backbones the past couple years, Berenson isn’t convinced this team is actually where it should be.

“This team has a lot to prove,” said Berenson. “But we all look forward to the challenge.”

CAPTAINS NAMED
Ebbett, Tambellini and Montoya were named tri-captains at last year’s season-ending banquet, but only Ebbett returns. Berenson named Hensick, Hunwick and Kaleniecki alternate captains.

“Brandon is an obvious choice as a captain since we lost Al Montoya,” Berenson said. “Brandon is a senior and he works hard and sets a good example. He plays with a lot of intensity and passion and he leads by example. As an older senior, I think the younger players will look to him.”

Last year’s captain, Eric Nystrom, graduated and signed with the Calgary Flames, the team that took him at No. 10 in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.

EXHIBITION GAME VICTORY
On Oct. 2, Michigan played an exhibition game against the University of Toronto and scored in the final minute for a 3-2 win.

Porter scored the game-winner and Kolarik and Hensick tallied the others.

“It was an unbelievable experience – something I waited for all summer and even for the last couple of years,” said Johnson. “It was a fun time to experience a game-like situation and a game day routine. It helped us know what to expect coming into today.”

Sauer also experienced his first game action, though he did play in the previous day’s Blue-White intersquad scrimmage.

“It's been quite a few months since last year,” said Sauer. “I didn't even know if I was coming this year, so to finally put on a jersey was a pretty nice feeling. I didn't really expect it to be that close, but it was actually a good thing. It came down to the third period. They really did test us. It gets us ready a little more than if it we would have blown them out. It gives us more preparation.”


WHO’S GONE
F Mike Brown (signed with Vancouver)
F Milan Gajic (signed with Providence – AHL)
F Charlie Henderson
D Nick Martens (signed with Grand Rapids - AHL)
G Al Montoya (signed with NY Rangers)
F David Moss (signed with Calgary)
F Eric Nystrom (signed with Calgary)
D Reilly Olson
D Brandon Rogers (signed with Omaha – AHL)
F Jason Ryznar (signed with New Jersey)
F Jeff Tambellini (signed with Los Angeles)
D Eric Werner (signed with Manchester – AHL)
F Mike Woodford (signed with Long Beach – ECHL)

WHO’S NEW
D Jack Johnson (U.S. NTDP)
D Adam Dunlap (senior transfer from Boston U)
F Andrew Cogliano (St. Michael’s – OPJHL)
F Travis Turnbull (Sioux City – USHL)
F Zac MacVoy (U.S. NTDP)
D Mark Mitera (U.S. NTDP)
F Tim Miller (Omaha – USHL)
F Tyler Swystun (Camrose – AJHL)
F Jason Bailey (U.S. NTDP)
F Brandon Naurato (Omaha – USHL)
F Danny Fardig (U.S. NTDP)
G Billy Sauer (Chicago – USHL)

Oakland falls to St. Clair, WSU next

Jordan Ingram scored twice against St. Clair College

Oakland University suffered its first loss of the season, 3-2, in overtime to a talented St. Clair College team last night at home.

Oakland started the game strong getting an early goal from senior Dan Oleksy on a great pass from Jordan Ingram. The lead didn't last long, however, as St. Clair scored just three minutes later on a goal by Matt Broadhead, a former junior player with the Traverse City Enforcers of the old Continental Elite Hockey League.

"Between periods, I let the guys know that there were a lot of positive things going on out there," OU head coach Sean Hogan said. "If we can keep the pressure on, we can get out of here with a win."

OU found themselves down a goal with just under 20 seconds remaining in the third period.

"We drew up a great play in the timeout to get the puck deep off the neutral zone facoff," commented assistant coach J.R. Dunn.

Oakland did just that, and with the goalie pulled, won the draw and put the puck deep in the St. Clair zone. The Grizzlies applied pressure and forced a turnover, setting up Ingram's goal from the left face-off circle with only 10 seconds remaining.

"I was really proud of the way our guys fought all game long," said Hogan. "We applied consistent pressure. We just need to capitalize on our opportunities."

In overtime, St. Clair finished off the Grizzlies with a goal 2:33 into the fourth stanza.

"That's the way OT goals are scored," said Hogan. "They threw it out front and got a bounce. St. Clair played well, they are a good team. We will be alright. I think this bodes well heading into our game with Wayne State Tuesday night."

Oakland out-shot the Saints, 37-26, but were 0-for-9 on the power play. St. Clair was 0-for-6.

Next Up: OU will take on an NCAA D-I opponent for the first time in their seven year history when they play the Wayne State Warriors Tuesday night at the Michigan State Fairgrounds Coliseum at 7:05 p.m.

"Wayne State will be the toughest opponent we have faced here at OU," noted Hogan. "We will need to play a near perfect game and commit close to zero mistakes to stay with them."

Tuesday's contest will open the season for WSU, ranked third in the pre-season College Hockey America coaches poll released last Friday. Sophomore forward Stavros Paskaris, the CHA rookie of the year last season, was named to the pre-season All-CHA Team.

Captains Named: Oakland named their team captains before Friday's contest with St. Clair. Assistant captains are Will McMahon, Scott Elder and Ingram while the wearer of the 'C' as captain is graduate transfer Brandon Lipari.

"The players voted for these men," Dunn said. "They are their guys chosen to lead them. I think we have the right players to do it. They command respect on and off the ice."

Lipari played last season at Michigan State.

Husky Talk: A Different View

Former MTU captain Colin Murphy and family

Welcome back all Michigan College Hockey fans! We once again get ready for a great season of college hockey. I am beyond excited for the season to start. I had an interview with MTU's ex-captain Colin Murphy (CM) a while back. Murphy is with the Toronto Maple Leafs organization and looking forward to the upcoming year. I asked him a bit about the AHL and also what he thought of this year's Huskies.

(MCH) What do you think of the incoming class this year at Michigan Tech? If you had to choose one, which one will have the quickest and biggest impact?

(CM) I'm not too familiar with the incoming freshman this year at MTU. I know the coaching staff did a great job recruiting and that the freshman class is going to be pretty strong. If I had to choose one I would say Rob Nolan will have a major impact in net this year for the Huskies. He's an Alberta kid and heard a lot of great things about him.

(MCH) Do you have any plans on returning throughout the year to watch the Huskies?

(CM) I will always be following the Huskies after every weekend. With my schedule as a pro, I'm not too sure I'll have the time to get back too see them play. Maybe I can get down to the GLI as Detroit is only three hours away from Toronto. You always remember what got you to where you are today, as far as Michigan Tech goes I will be a fan of the program, players and staff for many years.

(MCH) What do you think is a realistic finish for the Huskies this year?

(CM) The WCHA is a very tough league. In order for the Huskies to finish in the top five and gain home ice advantage for playoffs they will have to work very hard to accomplish that goal together. But I definitely think they can reach home ice for the playoffs. From there anything is possible.

(MCH) I see that you are re-united with Brett Engelhardt. Have you had the opportunity to play with or against other teammates yet?

(CM) It was nice to see a familiar face in a brand new atmosphere. It is tough switching teams ina matter of a week and Brett made my transition a lot easier. I dont think I have played against any other teammates yet, but I'm sure next year that oppurtunity will be there.

(MCH) What is the biggest difference between NCAA and AHL?

(CM) The biggest difference between the NCAA and the AHL is first of all the age and maturity of the players. The pro game is a fast pace game where you dont have alot of time to make decisions with the puck. You must know in advance where your going with it before the puck gets to you. As far as the speed of the game I think the NCAA is a very competitiveand fast game. The players in NCAA work very hard with thier respective programs that get them into shape together. The NCAA prepares you in every way to make that jump to the next level whether it be the NHL, AHL, ECHL, UHL, CHL. The good thing about the pro game is no face shields and you can fight without getting suspended. I'm sure a lot of college players look forward to that after being dry for four years of college.

(MCH) I saw that you were in a fight in one of your early games last year, did you win?

(CM) Suprisingly I did get into a few fights and did fairly well. Not being in a fight since junior I was a little hestitant to drop the gloves. Luckly the first guy was a lot smaller and probably not much of a fighter.

(MCH) Will we see you in the NHL this year?

(CM) Good question. Obviously, I am doing all I can this summer to become bigger, faster and stronger. I have been up in Houghton training with a few guys and the strength coach at Tech and am starting to make great strides. Whether or not it will be good enough to get the NHL this year is up to the management in Toronto. I will be at camp in mid-September and will do all I can to accomplish my dream. If I end up in the AHL thats fine, it gives me another year to adjust to the pro game and prepare for the NHL if that time comes.

Good luck to Colin Murphy and all his teammates and we hope to see him in the NHL. Look for a little preview of MTU hockey next week and more interviews as the year goes on. If you have any ideas for my Husky Talk write-ups, please Email me.

Spartans get commitment from Sprague

Indiana Ice forward Jay Sprague has committed to play collegiate hockey for the Michigan State Spartans in 2006-07, the USHL team has announced.

Sprague, a native of Georgetown, Ont., played in the Ontario Provincial Junior Hockey League last year and was drafted by the Ice in last spring's USHL draft.

"Jay Sprague was a player our staff was fortunate to see during the regular season and playoffs last year in Ontario," said Ice president-GM Paul Skjodt. "Michigan State wanted to see him play at the USHL level and his performance at the Buc Bowl sealed the deal. Jay is a consummate pro both on and off the ice. We believe he will be an impact player for the Ice this year and a great addition to the Michigan State hockey program in 2006-07."

The 19-year-old Sprague will suit up for the storied program that has produced numerous NHL players such as Mike York (NY Islanders), Anson Carter (Vancouver), Bryan Smolinski (Ottawa), John Michael Liles (Colorado) and Carolina Hurricanes captain Rod Brind'Amour.

Michigan State is a member of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA), which has accounted for 16 of the 56 NCAA Frozen Four participants from 1992-2005. The conference includes national powerhouses such as the Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State Buckeyes. The Spartans are coached by Rick Comley, who ranks seventh on the all-time NCAA hockey coach's wins list with 643 victories.

Grand Valley sweeps into the season

Phil Murray roared into the
season with a 4-goal series at NMU

By Chris Moore
ACHA Staff Writer

Grand Valley State University (2-0-0 ACHA) made the long trip to Marquette this past weekend to take on the Northern Michigan University Wildcats (2-2-0 ACHA).

In the first game, GVSU started out slow and sloppy, falling behind 1-0 after the first, but with help of goals from Nate Morang and two from Phil Murray, the Lakers prevailed in their season opener, 3-1. Robert Divoricek was spectacular in net for NMU, but couldn't hold on against the constant Laker pressure.

In the second game, things went a little better for the Lakers, jumping up 3-0 halfway through the first period and keeping up the pressure throughout the game to win easily 10-0. Murray again added two goals, along with Rick Lehman and Tim Hillebrand. Goaltender Chris Moore kept the shutout with 26 saves.

The Lakers travel down to Bowling Green next weekend to face the Falcons in two league games. Last year, GVSU swept the Falcons in two close games.

WSU officially back home at Fairgrounds

After six years, the "Boys are Back in Town"

Wayne State University director of athletics Rob Fournier announced today the Warrior men's hockey team will play its home games for the next three seasons at the Michigan State Fairgrounds Coliseum starting this fall.

"As we continue to look for that `home' away from campus, the Coliseum at the Fairgrounds offers us proximity, a classic venue and familiarity," said Fournier. "Hopefully our fans will quickly transition back to the Fairgrounds to create the atmosphere a top-tier college program should play before."

WSU head coach Bill Wilkinson begins his seventh season behind the Warrior bench in the same arena Wayne State hosted its first hockey game, the Michigan State Fairgrounds Coliseum. The inaugural home game was Nov. 5, 1999 - an 8-4 loss to Western Ontario.

"We are excited to be back at the Fairgrounds," commented Wilkinson. "The Coliseum has a great aura. It will be nice to practice and play at the same building. Hopefully this location will allow our students to attend on a more regular basis. Playing in a centrally located arena will be a bonus for our fans in metro Detroit."

After playing its inaugural campaign at the Coliseum, WSU played the next three seasons at the Great Lakes Sports City Arena in Fraser followed by two seasons at the Compuware Sports Arena in Plymouth. The third season in Fraser also saw WSU play two homes game at Joe Louis Arena, Taylor SportsPlex and Compuware.

In addition to serving as the home arena for Warrior men's hockey in 2005-06, the Coliseum will be the site of the 2006 College Hockey America men's and women's conference tournaments March 9-12.

The first action for the men comes Oct. 4 as WSU hosts the Oakland University club team in an exhibition contest at 7:05 p.m.

Golden Grizzlies sweep opening weekend

OU superstar Will McMahon

(Photo courtesy of Jim Selleck)

Two-time ACHA Division II Player of the Year Will McMahon started the season off with a bang collecting 10 points on five goals and five assists in two games this past weekend as Oakland defeated the University of Michigan, 7-2, on Friday and the University of Michigan-Dearborn, 7-5, on Saturday.

Friday's contest was all OU as the Grizzlies fired on all cylinders to take an early 3-0 lead after one period.

"I was very pleased to see the guys come out the way they did," said OU head coach Sean Hogan. "It showed we were ready for the season and the team was ready to play."

Several new faces appeared on the score sheet Friday as OU had two goals from Brandon Lipari and a goal each from NCAA transfer Brent Cooper and freshman Jeff Einhauser. Defenseman Scott Elder rounded out the scoring for the Grizzlies.

Saturday's game was a different story for the Grizzlies as OU came out flat and were down 5-2 in the second period.

"We were getting pushed around out there and getting beat to the puck for two periods," Hogan said. "The guys finally realized it was time to step it up. Wins like this build a team."

With just under ten seconds remaining in the second period OU got the break it needed with a goal from McMahon on a great feed from Cooper.

"Between periods I shook up the lines to see if we could get some more scoring and let the guys know that we can't let games like this slip away," stated Hogan.

The third period the Grizzlies did just that scoring four unanswered goals to take a 7-5 win back to the Onyx for next week's showdown with the St. Clair College Saints. McMahon ended the night with a hat trick and OU received two goals from Ronnie Teasdale and single goals from Lipari and Cooper.

GVSU Lakers set sail on new season

Nate Morang and the Lakers
skate into a promising ACHA season

By Chris Moore
ACHA Writer

After an inconsistent and disappointing season last year, the Grand Valley State University men’s hockey team decided some changes were needed to turn the direction of the team around. The Lakers return to the ice this year with a new look and a new attitude.

Coaching is the first change you’d notice, as the Lakers have replaced former coach Jason Zimmerman with former NHL draftee, IHL star, and junior coach Denny McLean. He brings his excitement for the team and wealth of knowledge to the ice.

"I believe there are a lot of pieces already in place to have a very successful season and in meeting with the players I've found their goals to be very lofty,” McLean stated. “My agenda now is pointing them in the direction of a national championship this year and to solidify the stature of Laker hockey for years to come."

On the ice, the Lakers look strong this year, returning every key piece of the 2004-2005 team, and adding some extra firepower in the process. Captain Mike Kadzban returns with two new linemates in Tim Hillebrand and David Wilmert. Hillebrand comes to the team after being named a Michigan Division I First Team All-Star, while Wilmert is a hardworking playing coming from the Buffalo State NCAA D-III team. He played his junior hockey with the Youngstown Phantoms Jr. A team in the CEHL and NAHL.

A late addition last year, Jeff Tejchma lines up with former Little Caesars star Mike Johnson and Nate Morang. Morang and Tejchma combined at the end of last year to be a powerful force on the ice. Last year's leader goal scorer and former All-State player, Phil Murray, lines up with the speedy Nate Beverwyk and last year's leader in points, Jeff Stempin to make another strong line. The Lakers have also added Nick Smith, a former Compuware Jr. A player, along with Metro Jets CSHL star Robb Higgins to make the lineup as strong as ever.

The defense returns all its key players last year and adds a few as well. Greg Kehr and Joe Bozek will continue to lead the team defensively, while NAHL star Adam Zobl and Mike Marquardt will be relied on to put up points on the blueline. The Lakers have also added talented Florida product Nick Boyle and will continue to rely on the big Aaron Bernstein as important d-men.

In goal, GVSU should continue to be solid, as the Lakers bring back goaltenders Chris Moore and former junior goaltender Troy VanderWeyden, while adding Michigan All-State goaltender Kevin Chapman. It is Moore’s fourth year on the team and VanderWeyden’s third. VanderWeyden turned down offers to play professionally in Europe to continue playing for GVSU. The two should combine to make a strong one-two punch in goal.

The GVSU Lakers begin their season this year with a road trip to Northern Michigan this upcoming weekend. The two teams met once last year, which came out with as a 4-4 tie. Northern's goaltending was spectacular in the game as GVSU outshot NMU by a total of 63-21, but still needed a last minute goal to secure the tie.

The Lakers hope to have a strong start to the season, but will have to work hard, as four of the first five weekends are on the road.

Oakland opens this weekend against U-M

Oakland University opens their club season this weekend with a game at home Friday night against Michigan and at Michigan-Dearborn on Saturday night. Friday's game is at the Onyx in Rochester.

Oakland played U-M twice last year, splitting the season series 1-1. OU did not play Dearborn last season, but did play them in the 2003-2004 campaign splitting a home and home series to open the season.

Michigan is a Great Midwest Hockey League member and the game will mark the first time that OU has opened the season with a GMHL league opponent. U of M-Dearborn is an ACHA Division I school and marks the first of five ACHA D-I games that OU will play.

"It especially important for us to get off to a good start this season, with our first game being a league game, and our first four possibly being our toughest stretch of games" commented OU head coach Sean Hogan. "We have four solid lines and I'm excited to get out there and see what we are capable of."

Wolverines ready for Blue-White game

The University of Michigan will kick off its 2005-06 campaign on Saturday, Oct. 1, when the Dekers Blue Line Club hosts the annual Blue-White intrasquad game. Faceoff is at 7 p.m.

Immediately following the game Skate with the Wolverines will take place, offering fans an opportunity to meet and get autographs from the players.

Tickets for the Blue-White intrasquad game are $6 for adults and $3 for children ages 12 and under. Michigan students can get tickets for $5 with a valid M-Card. Advance tickets will be on sale online at MGoBlue.com until Friday, Sept. 30, at noon. Tickets will also be available when the doors open at 6 p.m. All tickets are good for general admission, and proceeds from the event will benefit the Michigan Hockey Endowed Scholarship Fund.

Following the game, fans will get a chance to meet and get autographs from the Wolverines on the ice during the Skate with the Wolverines. Skates will be required to go onto the ice, and the Yost Ice Arena Skate Shop will offer skate rentals for $1.

The Maize and Blue hosts the University of Toronto in its lone preseason game on Sunday, Oct. 2, at 4 p.m. The regular season gets underway a week later when Quinnipiac comes to Ann Arbor for a pair of games on Oct. 7-8. Friday's home opener vs. Quinnipiac starts at 8 p.m., while game two against the Bobcats is at 7:35 p.m.

Single-game tickets for the regular season will go on sale on Wednesday, Sept. 21. They can be purchased online at MGoBlue.com beginning at 7 a.m. Walk-up and phone orders (734-764-0247 or toll-free (866) 296-MTIX) will be taken when the ticket office opens at 8:30 a.m.

Golden Grizzlies have national title in mind

EDITOR'S NOTE: This season, Michigan College Hockey is expanding once again to now provide coverage of men's and women's club hockey teams in the state of Michigan. That coverage begins today with the pre-season outlook of Oakland University, ACHA national runners-up last spring.

It was everything an OU hockey player could ask for: screaming fans, packed house, national championship on the line in overtime in your home rink.

The Michigan State offense was swarming Oakland netminder Chris Joswiak when a quick breakout attempt by OU lead to a turnover and in a blink of an eye Oakland University's reign as American Collegiate Hockey Association national champions came to an end. It's a feeling the players, coaches and staff of Oakland hope they won't be feeling again any time soon.

"That might have beenone of the lowest points in OU hockey history in terms of the expectations we had for last year," stated newly appointed head coach Sean Hogan. "This year we have recruited some of the most talented players we have had at OU and we think we can get back to where we were in 2003-2004 as ACHA national champions."

Oakland will again be lead by their offense with two-time ACHA Division II Player of the Year Will McMahon coming back for his junior season. Third-year players Jean Paul Ferrari and Jordan Ingram are expected to improve on their freshman and sophomore year numbers and contribute more offense to this already explosive group of forwards. Seniors Dan Oleksy and Ron Teasdale are expected to bring even more fire power up front, while senior Toshi Gunn will be looked upon to continue his sparkplug style of play.

The Grizzlies will boast an impressive cast of sophomore forwards in Tom Schaffler, Jonah Rogowski and Adam Peters. Schaffler and Rogowski are coming off impressive freshman campaigns while Peters impressed with his strong corner play and aggressive style. Perhaps what is most compelling about this OU team is the crop of incoming forwards, regarded as one of the most talented incoming classes in the brief history of OU hockey.

Ryan Webb comes to Oakland after two impressive campaigns at Utica College (NCAA DIII) and is the first OU hockey player to come from the prestigious USHL (Cedar Rapids and Sioux Falls during 2001-2002 season). Webb also won a Junior A national championship while competing for the Pittsburgh Forge of the NAHL in 2003. Brent Cooper comes to OU after playing last year with Wisconsin River-Falls (NCAA DIII). Cooper also won a Junior A national championship while being named to the NAHL All-Star Team for the Texas Tornado. Both will be expected to add scoring and speed upfront to this already dangerous offense.

Jeff Einhauser and John Parrish both impressed in camp. Einhauser is a speedy forward who played in the heralded Little Caesars AAA program. Parrish is a playmaking forward with softhands and a keen vision of the ice. Both will be able to contribute immediately on the front line.

Brandon Lipari should be remembered by Oakland hockey fans, as he has been a top player in the ACHA with Michigan State for several seasons and will provide immediate impact scoring up front for the Grizzlies. Lipari is a fast, playmaking wing who will also be looked upon for leadership in the Grizzly dressing room.

The OU defense will look to improve on last year's campaign with the addition of Adam Chornoby, a top-notch defenseman in the ACHA with great passing ability. Seniors Anthony Magdowski and Brian Belliotti will provide steady two-way play on the back line and leadership in the dressing room. Belliotti is coming off his most impressive season being named to the All Central Region Team. Third-year man Scott Elder will provide grit and hardnosed play in front of the Grizzly net and second-year players Steve Schaffler and Kyle Valentine will look to improve on solid rookie seasons. Both can spark offense from the back line when needed.

Two newcomers, Jarrett Samp and Kyle McCarthy, round out the defense corps. Both Samp and McCarthy impressed in camp with their hardnosed, rough, aggressive style hockey and will be looked upon to continue the play that garnered the coaches' attention.

In net, Joswiak won the starting job as a freshman a year ago with his ability to stay cool under pressure and make the big save. Newcomer Chase Cousens is expected to pressure Joswiak from the opening gate and try to win the job for himself.