Sunday, October 31, 2010
Need a Giggle?
Everblades Sweep Wings
The Kalamazoo Wings came into town as one of the last undefeated teams in the ECHL. The Everblades were coming off a less than stellar road trip. It seemed like the perfect storm was building.
It really didn't help that A.J. Thelen was coming to town.
After the Everblades chose not to offer him a contract, Thelen opted to join the Wings. It's not hard to imagine that Thelen probably felt he had something to prove. It's also not hard to imagine why he may want revenge on a fan base that was not often happy with his attempt at effort, and had no problem letting him know.
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In the first game the Blades had a come from behind victory, due in large part to two goals from Imbeault. In the second, they completely dominated the K-Wings, scoring six goals to their two.
This put the Everblades in the position of possibly being able to completely sweep the K-Wings on home ice, and in the first period it really looked like the third game in the series would parallel the second (score sheet). The Blades dominated the play, and even managed to net the first goal (the first time in seven games). A power play tally from Elgin Reid and an even strength notch from Matt Beca gave the Blades a 2-0 lead. The Wings responded with a goal to narrow the lead, but yet another power play goal from Elgin Reid gave them a two goal lead once again.
Unfortunately, the Wings began to show some life in the second period. They finally were rewarded when goalie Jaroslav Janus misplayed the puck behind his net leaving an empty goal for the Wings to score on. Therest of the period was uneventful and the Blades left the ice with their tenuous lead.
The Wings started the third right where they had left off and were able to tie it up a little over three minutes into the third. The Everblades had many close chances but K-Wings goalie Ryan Nie had shut the door in the first period and nothing was getting by him. Because neith team could convert on any of their chances, the game had to move to overtime.
Although both teams had some great chances, neither could make it work. That meant one thing: shoot-out time.
It might not have been a pretty game, but it was a win, and that's all that really matters. The Blades now have the momentum from the three game sweep to head into the road trip on a positive note.
It really didn't help that A.J. Thelen was coming to town.
After the Everblades chose not to offer him a contract, Thelen opted to join the Wings. It's not hard to imagine that Thelen probably felt he had something to prove. It's also not hard to imagine why he may want revenge on a fan base that was not often happy with his attempt at effort, and had no problem letting him know.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
In the first game the Blades had a come from behind victory, due in large part to two goals from Imbeault. In the second, they completely dominated the K-Wings, scoring six goals to their two.
This put the Everblades in the position of possibly being able to completely sweep the K-Wings on home ice, and in the first period it really looked like the third game in the series would parallel the second (score sheet). The Blades dominated the play, and even managed to net the first goal (the first time in seven games). A power play tally from Elgin Reid and an even strength notch from Matt Beca gave the Blades a 2-0 lead. The Wings responded with a goal to narrow the lead, but yet another power play goal from Elgin Reid gave them a two goal lead once again.
Unfortunately, the Wings began to show some life in the second period. They finally were rewarded when goalie Jaroslav Janus misplayed the puck behind his net leaving an empty goal for the Wings to score on. Therest of the period was uneventful and the Blades left the ice with their tenuous lead.
The Wings started the third right where they had left off and were able to tie it up a little over three minutes into the third. The Everblades had many close chances but K-Wings goalie Ryan Nie had shut the door in the first period and nothing was getting by him. Because neith team could convert on any of their chances, the game had to move to overtime.
Although both teams had some great chances, neither could make it work. That meant one thing: shoot-out time.
It might not have been a pretty game, but it was a win, and that's all that really matters. The Blades now have the momentum from the three game sweep to head into the road trip on a positive note.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Blades vs. K-Wings (10/29/10)
The Everblades took on the Kalamazoo Wings for the second night of a three game series. With the come from behind victory on Wednesday, the Blades were looking for another win tonight.
First, the game sheet.
The Blades had to start off on the wrong foot by giving up the first goal because it's the Blades and that's how they roll now. Seriously, that's seven games in a row that they've given up the first goal. It wasn't entirely the Blades fault, the K-Wings were very dominant for most of the first period. Lucky for the Blades undisciplined play caught up with the K-Wings. A penalty for closing the hand on the puck (stupidest penalty ever) was quickly followed by a tripping call. The Blades were able to take advantage of the 5 on 3 with a power play goal from Francis Lemieux. Mathieu Roy was able to follow that up with another power play tally to give the team a 2-1 advantage leaving the ice.
The opening minutes of the second period saw the K-Wings even it up with a short handed goal. Thankfully, this lit a fire under the Blades and they quickly answered with two goals. The first from Matt Beca gave them the 3-2 lead. This was followed by a short handed goal for the Blades by Alex Hutchings to make it 4-2. Mitch Fadden then notched on in the closing minutes of the period for a good old fashioned back breaking goal.
You could tell that the K-Wings just didn't feel it in the third. They had a few moments, but ultimately they couldn't get past the wall Bobby Goepfert had erected. As you would expect things got pretty chippy with lots of shoving and scuffles. Matthew Pistilli was nice enough to rub salt in the K-Wings wounds with a second short handed goal for the Everblades to make it 6-2.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
Some quick thoughts:
- The team looked awesome overall. It really looks like they've all got the system figured out. It really is a beautiful system when it's actually working. I love the speed.
- Bobby Goepfert has been absolutely amazing. He's calm, focused, and fast. You can tell he's already become a fan favorite, and can you really blame us? He saluted the fans as he left the ice, the dude is classy.
-Speaking of Goepfert, he's second in the ECHL in minutes and saves, and is in the top ten for every other category.
- Speaking of being top in the ECHL... Alexandre Imbeault leads the league with the most goals, and is second in power play goals. Mitch Fadden is third in assists while Matt Pistilli is second in short handed goals.
- Hopefully, the boys keep it up. They have one more game on Saturday before they go on a two week road-trip through the division.
First, the game sheet.
The Blades had to start off on the wrong foot by giving up the first goal because it's the Blades and that's how they roll now. Seriously, that's seven games in a row that they've given up the first goal. It wasn't entirely the Blades fault, the K-Wings were very dominant for most of the first period. Lucky for the Blades undisciplined play caught up with the K-Wings. A penalty for closing the hand on the puck (stupidest penalty ever) was quickly followed by a tripping call. The Blades were able to take advantage of the 5 on 3 with a power play goal from Francis Lemieux. Mathieu Roy was able to follow that up with another power play tally to give the team a 2-1 advantage leaving the ice.
The opening minutes of the second period saw the K-Wings even it up with a short handed goal. Thankfully, this lit a fire under the Blades and they quickly answered with two goals. The first from Matt Beca gave them the 3-2 lead. This was followed by a short handed goal for the Blades by Alex Hutchings to make it 4-2. Mitch Fadden then notched on in the closing minutes of the period for a good old fashioned back breaking goal.
You could tell that the K-Wings just didn't feel it in the third. They had a few moments, but ultimately they couldn't get past the wall Bobby Goepfert had erected. As you would expect things got pretty chippy with lots of shoving and scuffles. Matthew Pistilli was nice enough to rub salt in the K-Wings wounds with a second short handed goal for the Everblades to make it 6-2.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
Some quick thoughts:
- The team looked awesome overall. It really looks like they've all got the system figured out. It really is a beautiful system when it's actually working. I love the speed.
- Bobby Goepfert has been absolutely amazing. He's calm, focused, and fast. You can tell he's already become a fan favorite, and can you really blame us? He saluted the fans as he left the ice, the dude is classy.
-Speaking of Goepfert, he's second in the ECHL in minutes and saves, and is in the top ten for every other category.
- Speaking of being top in the ECHL... Alexandre Imbeault leads the league with the most goals, and is second in power play goals. Mitch Fadden is third in assists while Matt Pistilli is second in short handed goals.
- Hopefully, the boys keep it up. They have one more game on Saturday before they go on a two week road-trip through the division.
Friday Links
Happy Friday! As always, here are some links to get you through the day.
- Your Wikipedia hockey pageof the day "2-1-2 Forecheck"
- It's amazing what you can do with duct tape. I kind of want to see if this artist will do other teams.
- At Wednesdays game the Lightning were promoting their Hockey in Heels event they have coming up. It definitely sounds like a really interesting way for female fans to learn about all the game. Too bad the Everblades have never done this.
- My birthday is getting close and I must have a Zamoni cake. This one is cute, but not the best I've seen.
- Justin Bourne, who did time in the ECHL, has a great look at one of the drawbacks of call-ups. I really can't reccomend his blog enough. It's great to have some insight into a minor league player's life.
- An update on the slew foot from Wednesday's game. Mitch Versteeg, the Kalamazoo player that slew footed Mike Kennedy was fined an undisclosed amount and suspended one game. This will of course allow him to come back in time for Saturdays game. If the Wings are smart they won't dress him for that game. He may not like what Hendrikx or McColm might do to him.
- The Everblades take on the Wings again tonight. It's military night tonight!
- Say it with me... awwwwww.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
- Your Wikipedia hockey pageof the day "2-1-2 Forecheck"
- It's amazing what you can do with duct tape. I kind of want to see if this artist will do other teams.
- At Wednesdays game the Lightning were promoting their Hockey in Heels event they have coming up. It definitely sounds like a really interesting way for female fans to learn about all the game. Too bad the Everblades have never done this.
- My birthday is getting close and I must have a Zamoni cake. This one is cute, but not the best I've seen.
- Justin Bourne, who did time in the ECHL, has a great look at one of the drawbacks of call-ups. I really can't reccomend his blog enough. It's great to have some insight into a minor league player's life.
- An update on the slew foot from Wednesday's game. Mitch Versteeg, the Kalamazoo player that slew footed Mike Kennedy was fined an undisclosed amount and suspended one game. This will of course allow him to come back in time for Saturdays game. If the Wings are smart they won't dress him for that game. He may not like what Hendrikx or McColm might do to him.
- The Everblades take on the Wings again tonight. It's military night tonight!
- Say it with me... awwwwww.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
Thursday, October 28, 2010
News and Notes
It's time for a quick round-up of Everblades news.
- Last night was pretty awesome. My seats were amazing and the Penguins scored two shorthanded goals in one penalty. Too bad they lost, but I will have pictures up sometime Friday or Saturday for those who are interested.
- At least the Everblades won last night. You can see the game sheet here.
- Fun fact: The Blades have given up the first goal in 6 straight games.
- Fun fact: Alexandre Imbeault has now had three games in which he's scored at least two goals. I'm calling him as the first non-AHL contracted player.
- Reports from last night are that a Kalamazoo's Mitch Versteeg slew-footed Mike Kennedy. Apparently, Kennedy lay on the ice for a bit and had to be helped off.
- You may remember Elgin Reid was called for this last season and was suspended for it (one game I think). The ECHL should hand down any suspension, if it's going to happen (and it should), later today.
- The Everblades traded Vladimir Nikiforov to the Bakersfield Condors.
- The Charlotte Checkers assigned Defenseman Ethan Grahm to the Everblades.
- Last night was pretty awesome. My seats were amazing and the Penguins scored two shorthanded goals in one penalty. Too bad they lost, but I will have pictures up sometime Friday or Saturday for those who are interested.
- At least the Everblades won last night. You can see the game sheet here.
- Fun fact: The Blades have given up the first goal in 6 straight games.
- Fun fact: Alexandre Imbeault has now had three games in which he's scored at least two goals. I'm calling him as the first non-AHL contracted player.
- Reports from last night are that a Kalamazoo's Mitch Versteeg slew-footed Mike Kennedy. Apparently, Kennedy lay on the ice for a bit and had to be helped off.
- You may remember Elgin Reid was called for this last season and was suspended for it (one game I think). The ECHL should hand down any suspension, if it's going to happen (and it should), later today.
- The Everblades traded Vladimir Nikiforov to the Bakersfield Condors.
- The Charlotte Checkers assigned Defenseman Ethan Grahm to the Everblades.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
YouTube Tuesday
The Everblades are back in town after a rather unsuccessful road trip. This week the Everblades will be hosting the undefeated Kalamazoo Wings (3-0-0) for three games. The Blades have not always had the best of luck against the Wings. In fact, this video showcases one of my top 10 worst moments from last season:
The big news is, of course, the return of A.J. Thelen. After the Blades passed on resigning him, he received a deal with the Wings. Last season was terrible for him, especially after his ongoing concussion issues cost him a huge chunk of the season. He did have his bright moments though...
I'm sure he's not exactly looking forward to coming back. He was harassed by the fans when he played for the Everblades, can you imagine what everyone's going to come up with now that he's the enemy? If you have a good idea for a Thelen chant please share it in the comments. If you happen to make a sign please send me a picture. If I have enough entries I'll give the best sign a prize (the Everblades themed scarf I made last year sound good?).
A quick programming note: I won't be at Wednesdays game as I somehow managed to get amazing seats for the Penguins vs. Lightning game (thank you lightning pre-sale!). However, I am planning on making Fridays game as well as getting back into the habit of doing a re-cap for each game. I feel horrible for getting so lazy in the off-season.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
The big news is, of course, the return of A.J. Thelen. After the Blades passed on resigning him, he received a deal with the Wings. Last season was terrible for him, especially after his ongoing concussion issues cost him a huge chunk of the season. He did have his bright moments though...
I'm sure he's not exactly looking forward to coming back. He was harassed by the fans when he played for the Everblades, can you imagine what everyone's going to come up with now that he's the enemy? If you have a good idea for a Thelen chant please share it in the comments. If you happen to make a sign please send me a picture. If I have enough entries I'll give the best sign a prize (the Everblades themed scarf I made last year sound good?).
A quick programming note: I won't be at Wednesdays game as I somehow managed to get amazing seats for the Penguins vs. Lightning game (thank you lightning pre-sale!). However, I am planning on making Fridays game as well as getting back into the habit of doing a re-cap for each game. I feel horrible for getting so lazy in the off-season.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
Friday, October 22, 2010
Friday Links
Happy Friday everyone. As always, here are some links to make your last day of work fly by.
- The Blades lost last night 4-1. You can read a re-cap from the team here. It was going pretty well for the Blades until goalie Bobby Goepfert to a slap shot to his collarbone. There hasn't been an update from the team yet, hopefully it's just minor.
- You can check out the fight videos from last nights game, including one of Trevor Hendrikx destroying a rookie, over at the Blades' Blog.
- Because my sense of humor is weird, your Wikipedia hockey page for today is "Violence in Ice Hockey."
- The Third String Goalie blog has an interesting look at former Tampa Bay Lightning player.
- I just ordered this book from Amazon, I'm super excited about it.
- It's hard to pick which of these tattoos is the ugliest. They're all just terrible.
- It's not Friday without a kitty.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
- The Blades lost last night 4-1. You can read a re-cap from the team here. It was going pretty well for the Blades until goalie Bobby Goepfert to a slap shot to his collarbone. There hasn't been an update from the team yet, hopefully it's just minor.
- You can check out the fight videos from last nights game, including one of Trevor Hendrikx destroying a rookie, over at the Blades' Blog.
- Because my sense of humor is weird, your Wikipedia hockey page for today is "Violence in Ice Hockey."
- The Third String Goalie blog has an interesting look at former Tampa Bay Lightning player.
- I just ordered this book from Amazon, I'm super excited about it.
- It's hard to pick which of these tattoos is the ugliest. They're all just terrible.
- It's not Friday without a kitty.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
YouTube Tuesday
Imagine my surprise to find this little gem from the 03-04 Kelly Cup final. I've always wondered why, at the end of a fight, the opposing player doesn't have the same message for the crowd.
In case you're wondering that was Chris Thompsons only season with the Everblades. He was a very well traveled player, making stops in quite a few ECHL cities.
The Everblades will be gone this week on the first road trip of the year. They take on Greenville Thursday and Friday, and make a stop in Gwinnett on Saturday. It's going to be a tough trip, three days in a row is a lot to ask, but a successful road trip will be the perfect way to reboud from Last Saturdays horrible showing.
In case you're wondering that was Chris Thompsons only season with the Everblades. He was a very well traveled player, making stops in quite a few ECHL cities.
The Everblades will be gone this week on the first road trip of the year. They take on Greenville Thursday and Friday, and make a stop in Gwinnett on Saturday. It's going to be a tough trip, three days in a row is a lot to ask, but a successful road trip will be the perfect way to reboud from Last Saturdays horrible showing.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Gladiators (10/15 & 10/16)
The Everblades took on the Gwinnett Gladiators in back to back games Friday and Saturday. It's obvious the team still has some kinks to work out, they're far from perfect, but there were glimmers of hope.
Friday- Everblades 3- Gladiators 2 (Shootout)
Game Summary
The Blades started the game off on the wrong foot by giving up the first goal in the opening minutes to Gwinnett. Luckily, a goal from Mitch Fadden, and assisted by Mike Kennedy evened it up. Later, in the second period Cedric Lalonde-McNicoll gave the Blades the lead with an assist from Bobby Raymond on the power play. The Gladiators couldn't be held off and managed to even it up on the power play in the third.
Neither team could get ahead for the rest of the period, and in the end, the game had to go into overtime. With both teams fielding the four players there was a little more room, and the pace sped up. With less than two minutes left in the period both teams received coincidental roughing penalties. This forced them to play a three on three for the remainder of overtime. Both teams had some great chances but neither could put the nail in the coffin, making a shootout neccessary.
I was very impressed by Bobby Goepferts preformance in the shootout. He completely stonewalled the Gladiators, denying them at every turn. Goals from Alexandre Imbeault and Mitch Fadden secured the Everblades the shootout win and the extra point.
Saturday- Everblades 3- Gladiators 5
Game Summary
I wish I could say Saturdays game was better, but I can't. Once again the Everblades gave up the first goal, this time on the power play. Unfortunately, they didn't answer back until late in the first period after Gwinnetts second goal with an even strength tally from Francis Lemieux assisted by Roy and Imbeault. After that, the game quickly spiraled out of control in the second when the Gladiators took the game over completely. They managed to score three unanswered goals to put themselves up 5-1 on the Blades. If it hadn't been for a fight late in the third the Blades may never had regained any life.
For some reason, a Gladiators player decided that hacking at goalie Bobby Goepferts glove after the whistle was a good idea. Obviously our the Everblades players didn't take to kindly to that. After a tussle, Elgin Reid absolutely dominated Gwinnett's Chris Poli in a fierce tussle. After everything was sorted out 14 minutes in penalties were assesed.
With a little wind in their sails, the Everblades managed to score two goals. A power play tally from Matthew Pistilli and assisted by Mike McKenzie and Cedric Lalonde-McNicoll, as well as a goal at the 19:50 mark in the period from Lalonde-McNicoll, and assisted by McKenzie and Phil Paquet.
Of course, the Blades were unable to score two more goals in the last 50 seconds of the game. In the end, they couldn't overcome their lackluster performance and split the series with the Gladiators.
Friday- Everblades 3- Gladiators 2 (Shootout)
Game Summary
The Blades started the game off on the wrong foot by giving up the first goal in the opening minutes to Gwinnett. Luckily, a goal from Mitch Fadden, and assisted by Mike Kennedy evened it up. Later, in the second period Cedric Lalonde-McNicoll gave the Blades the lead with an assist from Bobby Raymond on the power play. The Gladiators couldn't be held off and managed to even it up on the power play in the third.
Neither team could get ahead for the rest of the period, and in the end, the game had to go into overtime. With both teams fielding the four players there was a little more room, and the pace sped up. With less than two minutes left in the period both teams received coincidental roughing penalties. This forced them to play a three on three for the remainder of overtime. Both teams had some great chances but neither could put the nail in the coffin, making a shootout neccessary.
I was very impressed by Bobby Goepferts preformance in the shootout. He completely stonewalled the Gladiators, denying them at every turn. Goals from Alexandre Imbeault and Mitch Fadden secured the Everblades the shootout win and the extra point.
Saturday- Everblades 3- Gladiators 5
Game Summary
I wish I could say Saturdays game was better, but I can't. Once again the Everblades gave up the first goal, this time on the power play. Unfortunately, they didn't answer back until late in the first period after Gwinnetts second goal with an even strength tally from Francis Lemieux assisted by Roy and Imbeault. After that, the game quickly spiraled out of control in the second when the Gladiators took the game over completely. They managed to score three unanswered goals to put themselves up 5-1 on the Blades. If it hadn't been for a fight late in the third the Blades may never had regained any life.
For some reason, a Gladiators player decided that hacking at goalie Bobby Goepferts glove after the whistle was a good idea. Obviously our the Everblades players didn't take to kindly to that. After a tussle, Elgin Reid absolutely dominated Gwinnett's Chris Poli in a fierce tussle. After everything was sorted out 14 minutes in penalties were assesed.
With a little wind in their sails, the Everblades managed to score two goals. A power play tally from Matthew Pistilli and assisted by Mike McKenzie and Cedric Lalonde-McNicoll, as well as a goal at the 19:50 mark in the period from Lalonde-McNicoll, and assisted by McKenzie and Phil Paquet.
Of course, the Blades were unable to score two more goals in the last 50 seconds of the game. In the end, they couldn't overcome their lackluster performance and split the series with the Gladiators.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Fiday Links
Opening night is finally here!
- The team has finalized the roster, and I've taken the liberty of updating the blogs to reflect all the changes:
- The team voted and Mike Egener was named captain. Elgin Reid and Francis Lemieux were named alternate captains. I know it's a little shocking for Everblades fans that the players were allowed to decide who will lead the team after two years of Malcolm Cameron controlling every minute detail of the team, but it looks like Greg Poss is as far from uptight and controlling as possible.
- Speaking of Cameron, this writer wants you to know that the Cameron era is about to begin and it's going to be awesome. Good luck with that Elmira.
- Our opponent tonight is the Gwinnett Gladiators. If you remember I featured them on a YouTube Tuesday a few weeks ago.
- As always Elite Prospects has an insane amount of info on the team.
- The team keeps track of some really interesting records, as well as wins and losses by month and day, and my favorite, former Everblades that have played in the NHL.
- I love looking through all these game worn jerseys, if only I had the money...
- I think this is more appropriate than a kitty.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
- The team has finalized the roster, and I've taken the liberty of updating the blogs to reflect all the changes:
- The team voted and Mike Egener was named captain. Elgin Reid and Francis Lemieux were named alternate captains. I know it's a little shocking for Everblades fans that the players were allowed to decide who will lead the team after two years of Malcolm Cameron controlling every minute detail of the team, but it looks like Greg Poss is as far from uptight and controlling as possible.
- Speaking of Cameron, this writer wants you to know that the Cameron era is about to begin and it's going to be awesome. Good luck with that Elmira.
- Our opponent tonight is the Gwinnett Gladiators. If you remember I featured them on a YouTube Tuesday a few weeks ago.
- As always Elite Prospects has an insane amount of info on the team.
- The team keeps track of some really interesting records, as well as wins and losses by month and day, and my favorite, former Everblades that have played in the NHL.
- I love looking through all these game worn jerseys, if only I had the money...
- I think this is more appropriate than a kitty.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
Thursday, October 14, 2010
TOP SECRET
A preview of the FGCU D3 Eagles and their warm-up on October 9th, 2010 prior to their victory against the Embry Riddle Eagles.
Video coming soon. . .
Video coming soon. . .
GIVING BACK TO THEIR COMMUNITY
The FGCU Ice Hockey team had a very successful double-header weekend,but they had a lot of help to help them through it. Not only was their fan base up to par, but the support of the Southwest Florida Community was superb. FGCU Hockey partnered with GOODWILL Industries to hold a clothing drive on the nights of October 8th and 9th. At this time, D3 hosted the Embry Riddle Eagles and D2 hosted "The Showdown" vs the University of Connecticut Huskies. The FGCU Game Day Operating staff welcomed back the UConn starting goalie Justus Neumann to the ice-he has become a patriot, idol and model goalie for the FGCU Game Day Operating Staff.
GOODWILL provided Germain Arena with the opportunity for members of the community to donate materials such as old bags of clothing and furniture that were no longer needed to a trailer in the parking lot. In return, donors received a bag of coupons complimentary from restaurants such as: Tropical Smoothie, Jets Pizza, Pita Pita and more. FGCU Ice Hockey would like to thank GOODWILL and the Southwest Florida Community for their support and look forward to more events hosted like this in the near future.
FGCU Ice Hockey Director of Game Day Operations and Co-Director of Volunteers Jamie Flatley poses here with GOODWILL's Morgan and Jennifer after the puck drop
FGCU D2 Captain Mike Lendino and UConn Captain welcome Morgan and await the GOODWILL puck drop.
FGCU D2 Captain Mike Lendino welcomes GOODWILL's Morgan for the GOODWILL kick-off and ceremonial puck drop.
FGCU D2 Hockey on ice with GOODWILL'S Tie-the traveling tree. (Photo courtesy of: GOODWILL Industries)
The D2 Eagles also made a debut at the 2010 Scout Show at Lakes Park in Estero, FL. This event was hosted/sponsored by Boy Scouts of America.
(from left to right, players include: rookie Jake Coyle, FGCU Ice Hockey Club President Jason Almcrantz, rookie goalie Ben Hogan, rookie Michael Sisera, rookie Jordan John and Captain of the Eagles Mike Lendino)
GOODWILL provided Germain Arena with the opportunity for members of the community to donate materials such as old bags of clothing and furniture that were no longer needed to a trailer in the parking lot. In return, donors received a bag of coupons complimentary from restaurants such as: Tropical Smoothie, Jets Pizza, Pita Pita and more. FGCU Ice Hockey would like to thank GOODWILL and the Southwest Florida Community for their support and look forward to more events hosted like this in the near future.
FGCU Ice Hockey Director of Game Day Operations and Co-Director of Volunteers Jamie Flatley poses here with GOODWILL's Morgan and Jennifer after the puck drop
FGCU D2 Captain Mike Lendino and UConn Captain welcome Morgan and await the GOODWILL puck drop.
FGCU D2 Captain Mike Lendino welcomes GOODWILL's Morgan for the GOODWILL kick-off and ceremonial puck drop.
FGCU D2 Hockey on ice with GOODWILL'S Tie-the traveling tree. (Photo courtesy of: GOODWILL Industries)
The D2 Eagles also made a debut at the 2010 Scout Show at Lakes Park in Estero, FL. This event was hosted/sponsored by Boy Scouts of America.
(from left to right, players include: rookie Jake Coyle, FGCU Ice Hockey Club President Jason Almcrantz, rookie goalie Ben Hogan, rookie Michael Sisera, rookie Jordan John and Captain of the Eagles Mike Lendino)
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
YouTube Tuesday
This Friday the Everblades take on the Gwinnett Gladiators to open up the season. The game we have been waiting for since the end of last season has finally come. Time to get pumped!
Friday can't come soon enough.
Friday can't come soon enough.
Monday, October 11, 2010
News and Notes
- The Jr. Blades won both their games this weekend. They are undefeated so far this season. The team has tweeted a preview of the game notes for this weekends series against the Atlanta Hawks.
- I got all the pictures from the Alumni game and Fridays game against Greenville up on Flickr.
- You can check out the game summaries for the two games against the Road warriors here and here. I have no idea why they announced the three stars wrong on Friday (they said McColm [who didn't even play], Raymond Nikiforov), but they seem to have corrected it.
- One of our affiliates has finally sent us a goalie. The Charlotte Checkers have reassigned Bobby Goepfert to the Everblades.Check out his stats:
- The Checkers have also assigned defenceman Kyle Lawson. His stats:
- I have to link to this blog post that talks about the growth of youth hockey in Florida. Especially because of the mention of two local boys R.J. Boyd and David Bohem.
- I got all the pictures from the Alumni game and Fridays game against Greenville up on Flickr.
- You can check out the game summaries for the two games against the Road warriors here and here. I have no idea why they announced the three stars wrong on Friday (they said McColm [who didn't even play], Raymond Nikiforov), but they seem to have corrected it.
- One of our affiliates has finally sent us a goalie. The Charlotte Checkers have reassigned Bobby Goepfert to the Everblades.Check out his stats:
- The Checkers have also assigned defenceman Kyle Lawson. His stats:
- I have to link to this blog post that talks about the growth of youth hockey in Florida. Especially because of the mention of two local boys R.J. Boyd and David Bohem.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Friday Links
The Everblades take on the Greenville Road Warriors (I cringe every time I type that name) tonight in the first of two preseason games. If you can't make the game you can listen online or watch over at the B2 network (now known as America One). Although the radio feed is free, you're going to have to pay for the video feed.
Now, on to the fun!
- I love this short biography of Larry Murphy. He's one of my favorite players of all time, and I was seriously considering going with his name and number for my customized jersey.
- Your Wikipedia Hockey page for today- "Ceremonial First Puck"
- You have to check out this blog post about the Blue Jackets decision to affiliate with a CHL team. They already have an agreement with Gwinett, so the announcement of this agreement was a bit disappointing to say the least.
- Also, since we're on the subject, have you seen my magnificent work of hockey nerdiness? This affiliation chart tracks every affiliation of every ECHL team. I'm very proud of it.
- I know I talk a lot about Twitter, but I think it's a really valuable tool for staying up to date on the latest Everblades news and scores. This is a really easy guide for getting started.
- The best reason to get on Twitter? You can follow two of the Everblades! Forwards Kevin Deeth and Mike McKenzie (he's on a bit of Twitter break right now sadly) are both on Twitter. I also have to recommend following some of the Jr. Blades players. They're a very funny group. While your at it, you can follow me or Woody from the Blades' Blog.
- You have to love hockey fans in training...
see more This is Photobomb
Now, on to the fun!
- I love this short biography of Larry Murphy. He's one of my favorite players of all time, and I was seriously considering going with his name and number for my customized jersey.
- Your Wikipedia Hockey page for today- "Ceremonial First Puck"
- You have to check out this blog post about the Blue Jackets decision to affiliate with a CHL team. They already have an agreement with Gwinett, so the announcement of this agreement was a bit disappointing to say the least.
- Also, since we're on the subject, have you seen my magnificent work of hockey nerdiness? This affiliation chart tracks every affiliation of every ECHL team. I'm very proud of it.
- I know I talk a lot about Twitter, but I think it's a really valuable tool for staying up to date on the latest Everblades news and scores. This is a really easy guide for getting started.
- The best reason to get on Twitter? You can follow two of the Everblades! Forwards Kevin Deeth and Mike McKenzie (he's on a bit of Twitter break right now sadly) are both on Twitter. I also have to recommend following some of the Jr. Blades players. They're a very funny group. While your at it, you can follow me or Woody from the Blades' Blog.
- You have to love hockey fans in training...
see more This is Photobomb
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Blades vs. Alumni Recap
I think it's safe to say the inaugural Alumni game was a resounding success. All the players looked like they were having fun, and everyone around me seemed to be having fun as well. I was a little sad they only played two periods (and didn't switch sides), but it was still an awesome game. Theses are only a few of the pictures from last night. I should have everything up on the Flickr page late Saturday.
Two moments from last night really stood out to me. The first was when Vladimir Nikiforov was trying to put on a show. Tom Buckly looked at him like he was crazy and threw him into the glass. The other was at the end of the second period. Mitch McColm took on Michael Grenzy. At the time I called it the nicest hockey fight I've ever seen, and it really was. I'm hoping this becomes a regular event. It was great to have fun and raise money at the same time.
It wasn't all fun though, I did pay attention for you guys. In no particular order some of my thought on watching the guys in action:
- Mitch McColm seems to be becoming a leader on the team.
- Evgeny Timkin is either a really likeable guy or a really funny guy. He had all the other players on the ice smiling and laughing.
- Vladimir Nikiforov does this little turn thing anytime he's challenged by another player.
- I'm glad Reid has returned, I didn't realize how much I enjoyed him playing.
- The Everblades had Reed Swanson and Brian Makowicz in net. Given the choice I'd go with Makowicz simply because he had a whole Tim Thomas thing going on (and I love that in a goalie).
- Nate Zervos, Bobby Goepfert, Phil Paquet, Mathieu Roy, Shea Guthrie, Trevor Hendrikx, Mike McKenzie, and Ross Carlson didn't dress for the game. There were two players in the stand watching, but I was on the opposite side of the arena so I couldn't tell.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
GOODWILL Sponsoring FGCU Hockey
Breaking News from your FGCU Ice Hockey Eagles:
GOODWILL
Please donate any items to GOODWILL at THIS weekends games. This would include that teddy bear your cutie gave you in 9th grade or that hand-me down Christmas sweater. Furniture is also in need. GOODWILL will have a trailer outside Germain Arena both Friday and Saturday nights and will be passing out coupon packets for free appetizers and more upon a donation. Lets show the community what FGCU is all about. DONATE TO GOODWILL!
Photo advertisement courtesy of: http://www.eaglenews.org/. "The Student Newspaper at FGCU." FGCU Hockey thanks them for all of their dedication and support informing FGCU students and the community about the FGCU Hockey program.
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FGCU's D3 Eagles take on Embry Riddle in the first DOUBLE HEADER game weekend of the Season. FGCU is on a winning streak & they do NOT want that to change. Come support FGCU and stay for the D2/UConn showdown soon after. Games times are October 8th and 9th at 6PM for D3 and at 8:30 PM for D2.
Admission:
FREE for FGCU Students (with valid i.d)
$5 for non-FGCU affiliates
Parking:
FREE for all
Be loud, be proud & GO EAGLES!
GOODWILL
Please donate any items to GOODWILL at THIS weekends games. This would include that teddy bear your cutie gave you in 9th grade or that hand-me down Christmas sweater. Furniture is also in need. GOODWILL will have a trailer outside Germain Arena both Friday and Saturday nights and will be passing out coupon packets for free appetizers and more upon a donation. Lets show the community what FGCU is all about. DONATE TO GOODWILL!
Photo advertisement courtesy of: http://www.eaglenews.org/. "The Student Newspaper at FGCU." FGCU Hockey thanks them for all of their dedication and support informing FGCU students and the community about the FGCU Hockey program.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FGCU's D3 Eagles take on Embry Riddle in the first DOUBLE HEADER game weekend of the Season. FGCU is on a winning streak & they do NOT want that to change. Come support FGCU and stay for the D2/UConn showdown soon after. Games times are October 8th and 9th at 6PM for D3 and at 8:30 PM for D2.
Admission:
FREE for FGCU Students (with valid i.d)
$5 for non-FGCU affiliates
Parking:
FREE for all
Be loud, be proud & GO EAGLES!
YouTube Tuesday: Alumni Edition
Tonight's the big night. Several Everblades alumni will be returning to take on the current roster in the first ever Alumni Game. Seeing past Everblades players return to the ice is pretty exciting, but I have to admit, I'm more excited about the point of this night. All proceeds from the ticket sales as well as money raised from the alumni jersey auction and a silent auction will be going to the Piper Buckley Foundation.
Among the alumni playing tonight will be Brandon Coalter. Here he is mixing it up with a player from the now defunct Agusta Lynx:
Some of the other alumni for tonight are Tom Buckley (99-04), Reggie Berg (99-07), Marc Magliaditi (98-01), Terry Lindgren (99-02; assistant coach 02-04), Brent McDonald (00-07), Ryan Brindley (03-07), Keith Anderson (01-05), and Matt Pagnutti (03-05).
It starts at 7:30 tonight and I can't wait.
Among the alumni playing tonight will be Brandon Coalter. Here he is mixing it up with a player from the now defunct Agusta Lynx:
Some of the other alumni for tonight are Tom Buckley (99-04), Reggie Berg (99-07), Marc Magliaditi (98-01), Terry Lindgren (99-02; assistant coach 02-04), Brent McDonald (00-07), Ryan Brindley (03-07), Keith Anderson (01-05), and Matt Pagnutti (03-05).
It starts at 7:30 tonight and I can't wait.
Monday, October 4, 2010
OFF TO A GREAT START
The ACHA FGCU D3 & D2 Eagles are on a winning streak after two incredible weekends of Hockey.
The D3 Eagles took home two wins against the Space Coast Hurricanes and the University of Alabama. The D2 Eagles took home a victory vs the Jr. Blades and Central Michigan University. The Jr. Blades gave the D2 Eagles a run for their money. Those Jr. Blades are starstruck, young and very talented gentleman with nothing but pure passion and heart for the game. It was an honor to host them in their own rink and FGCU wishes them the best of luck in their first season as a Junior B program.
The D2 Eagles blew away Central Michigan with an 11-1 win on Friday October 1st, but they came "ready to play" on the night of October 2nd. CMU held the Eagles 4 to 3 and pulled their goalie in the last 4 minutes of the game. However, in the last 1ast 18 seconds of the game, FGCU's #18 Jake Coyle took a shot on an open net bringing the Eagles up by 2, with an end score of 5-3. Mr. Coyle left that game with his first hat trick for the 2010-11 FGCU Hockey season. Way to go, Jake!
For more news, scores and game day updates, check out: http://hockeyyall.com/
Until next time. . .GO EAGLES!
The D3 Eagles took home two wins against the Space Coast Hurricanes and the University of Alabama. The D2 Eagles took home a victory vs the Jr. Blades and Central Michigan University. The Jr. Blades gave the D2 Eagles a run for their money. Those Jr. Blades are starstruck, young and very talented gentleman with nothing but pure passion and heart for the game. It was an honor to host them in their own rink and FGCU wishes them the best of luck in their first season as a Junior B program.
The D2 Eagles blew away Central Michigan with an 11-1 win on Friday October 1st, but they came "ready to play" on the night of October 2nd. CMU held the Eagles 4 to 3 and pulled their goalie in the last 4 minutes of the game. However, in the last 1ast 18 seconds of the game, FGCU's #18 Jake Coyle took a shot on an open net bringing the Eagles up by 2, with an end score of 5-3. Mr. Coyle left that game with his first hat trick for the 2010-11 FGCU Hockey season. Way to go, Jake!
For more news, scores and game day updates, check out: http://hockeyyall.com/
Until next time. . .GO EAGLES!
News and Notes
Here's a quick update on the news from this weekend.
- The Jr. Blades won both of their games against the Tampa Bolts this weekend. There should also be a fight video going up at the Jr. Blades YouTube channel at some point.
- Woody has a great story up on how training camp has been going so far. The opening day is here, and today's report is here.
- In case you didn't click that second link, Francis Lemieux and Shea Guthrie got into a fight. This is funny when you consider they rode back from Norfolk together. I guess you can't blame Lemieux though, Guthrie looks like the kind of person who sings (off-key) in the car.
- In case you missed my tweets over the weekend- McColm, Paquet, Guthrie, Raymond, Imbeault, Sarazin, Hendrikx, and Egener were all released from their try-outs and are either back in town or expected to arrive in the next few days.
- The Charlotte Checkers have assigned four players to us (click their names for their stats)- Matt Beca, Mike McKenzie (You can find him on Twitter here), Matthew Pistilli, and Elgin Reid.
- The Admirals have reassigned Mitch Fadden.
- That brings the roster to 21 players, plus the 6 players on try-out (Richie Smith was cut yesterday) brings the grand total to 27 players. The ECHL only allows 20 players (they don't count players on the injured reserved list). There still may be some more players arriving from our affiliates (one should be a goalie coming from Norfolk). Cuts will be announced Saturday.
- Most importantly... the Alumni Game is tomorrow!
- The Jr. Blades won both of their games against the Tampa Bolts this weekend. There should also be a fight video going up at the Jr. Blades YouTube channel at some point.
- Woody has a great story up on how training camp has been going so far. The opening day is here, and today's report is here.
- In case you didn't click that second link, Francis Lemieux and Shea Guthrie got into a fight. This is funny when you consider they rode back from Norfolk together. I guess you can't blame Lemieux though, Guthrie looks like the kind of person who sings (off-key) in the car.
- In case you missed my tweets over the weekend- McColm, Paquet, Guthrie, Raymond, Imbeault, Sarazin, Hendrikx, and Egener were all released from their try-outs and are either back in town or expected to arrive in the next few days.
- The Charlotte Checkers have assigned four players to us (click their names for their stats)- Matt Beca, Mike McKenzie (You can find him on Twitter here), Matthew Pistilli, and Elgin Reid.
- The Admirals have reassigned Mitch Fadden.
- That brings the roster to 21 players, plus the 6 players on try-out (Richie Smith was cut yesterday) brings the grand total to 27 players. The ECHL only allows 20 players (they don't count players on the injured reserved list). There still may be some more players arriving from our affiliates (one should be a goalie coming from Norfolk). Cuts will be announced Saturday.
- Most importantly... the Alumni Game is tomorrow!
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Need a Giggle?
Here's hoping your Saturday goes well, to start you off right, enjoy a little angry Chris Holt. Doesn't he look like he's about to go all Hulk on someone?
Friday, October 1, 2010
Roster News
The Everblades made two announcements today, one a signing, and the other the training camp roster. First, the list of players invited to training camp (which starts Sunday).
Players that have been invited to try-out (with stats if I could find them):
-Reed Swanson (G)
-Brian Markowicz (G)-
-Nate Zervous (G)- You can read this great story from the Naples Daily News about him for some background. I have to admit that I'm a little confused about the correct spelling. For the last two years I thought it was Zervos, but the team has this spelling submitted to the league. If I have been spelling it wrong I'm sorry, but Google leads me to believe the new spelling isn't what he's been using.
-Tommy Powers (D)-
-Oleg Kuzmin (F)-
-Tristian Cameron-Harper (F)
-Richie Smith (F)
And players that already have contracts:
Now, on to the signing. The Everblades have brought on forward Mike Kennedy. His stats:
And a video of him from his Cornell days earning an assist (there's also some awesome goalie taunting):
As you can see, he spent some time playing in Albany. It appears an injury ended his season. It's going to be interesting to see how he comes back after being off the ice for most of last season.
Players that have been invited to try-out (with stats if I could find them):
-Reed Swanson (G)
-Brian Markowicz (G)-
-Nate Zervous (G)- You can read this great story from the Naples Daily News about him for some background. I have to admit that I'm a little confused about the correct spelling. For the last two years I thought it was Zervos, but the team has this spelling submitted to the league. If I have been spelling it wrong I'm sorry, but Google leads me to believe the new spelling isn't what he's been using.
-Tommy Powers (D)-
-Oleg Kuzmin (F)-
-Tristian Cameron-Harper (F)
-Richie Smith (F)
And players that already have contracts:
-Evgeny Timkin (F)
-Mathieu Roy (F)
-Kevin Deeth (F)
-Ross Carlson (F)
-David Fischer (D) Now, on to the signing. The Everblades have brought on forward Mike Kennedy. His stats:
And a video of him from his Cornell days earning an assist (there's also some awesome goalie taunting):
As you can see, he spent some time playing in Albany. It appears an injury ended his season. It's going to be interesting to see how he comes back after being off the ice for most of last season.
Friday Links
Fridays on this blog mean one thing, link time!
- The Everblades start training camp this Sunday, all practices are open to the public (if you go please send us pictures). The Alumni game is Tuesday and the team has released a partial roster for the alumni.
- I've been doing research for a pretty important purchase. I was very surprised to come across very affordable ECHL jerseys for sale. At $50 even I might consider the ugly jersey the team wore for the 07-08 season.
- By the way, the big purchase, a customized Tom Barrasso replica 1992 Penguins jersey (it will be the fourth one down). Greatest Hockey Legends has a little on him.
- As always, Sports Illustrated has a great gallery. This time its hideous third jerseys.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today- "Punch Line"
- I really like this print of a pair of Easton skates. It looks very realistic.
- Mental Floss has a funny list of defunct sports leagues. It's too bad the roller hockey league never worked out...
- What would Friday be without a kitty?
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
- The Everblades start training camp this Sunday, all practices are open to the public (if you go please send us pictures). The Alumni game is Tuesday and the team has released a partial roster for the alumni.
- I've been doing research for a pretty important purchase. I was very surprised to come across very affordable ECHL jerseys for sale. At $50 even I might consider the ugly jersey the team wore for the 07-08 season.
- By the way, the big purchase, a customized Tom Barrasso replica 1992 Penguins jersey (it will be the fourth one down). Greatest Hockey Legends has a little on him.
- As always, Sports Illustrated has a great gallery. This time its hideous third jerseys.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today- "Punch Line"
- I really like this print of a pair of Easton skates. It looks very realistic.
- Mental Floss has a funny list of defunct sports leagues. It's too bad the roller hockey league never worked out...
- What would Friday be without a kitty?
see more Lolcats and funny pictures
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