In Play on Facebook
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Ryan Ellis scored the only goal in a shootout and Jack Campbell made 35 saves as the Windsor Spitfires edged the Niagara Ice Dogs 4-3 on Saturday night.
Ellis also scored the tying goal early in the third period for the Spitfires (9-6-0-1), who won their second straight road game and third overall.
As they did Friday night in Erie, the Spits fell behind early in the first period.
After a turnover in the Niagara zone, Freddy Hamilton let a shot go off the rush that seemed to slingshot off Ellis’s stick and into the top corner behind Jack Campbell for a 1-0 IceDogs lead.
Zack MacQueen tied it on a power play at the 14:42 mark. Stationed at the side of the crease, MacQueen was able to tap home a Zack Kassian rebound past Mark Visentin.
But Mitchell Theoret scored under a minute later and the IceDogs took a 2-1 edge into the first intermission.
The Spits once again pulled even late in the second. Nick Czinder picked off a bad pass by Simon Gronvaldt and scored on his own rebound, making it 2-2 at 13:36.
Trailing 3-2 heading into the third, the Spitfires wasted no time making the most of their fourth power play opportunity. Ellis finished off a pretty tic-tac-toe play in the slot, from Tom Kuhnhackl and Alexander Khokhlachev, just 16 seconds in to tie the game back up at 3-3.
As both teams began to tire, the Spits were awarded three consecutive power play opportunities, but couldn't muster the go-ahead goal in regulation time.
Overtime settled nothing.
And three big Jack Campbell saves off Andrew Agozzino, Ryan Strome and Mitchell Theoret in the shootout set the stage for Eliis to beat Visentin five-hole for the game-winner.
Scoring
1. NIAG Hamilton, (8) , 1:48
1. WSR MacQueen, (5) (Kassian, Ebert), 14:42 (PP)
1. NIAG Theoret, (3) , 15:21
2. WSR Czinder, (1) , 13:36
2. NIAG Theoret, (4) (Billingsley, Wilson), 17:23
3. WSR Ellis, (4) (Khokhlachev, Kuhnhackl), 0:16 (PP)
NOTES
Campbell turned aside 35 of 38 shots along with his three shootout saves. Visentin made 34 of 37 saves and also stopped two shootout attempts ... The Spitfires were 3-for-7 on the power play. The Ice Dogs went 0-for-3 ... Nick Czinder’s goal was his first of the season and first of his OHL career ... Spits head coach Bob Jones continued his masterful job of rotating players in and out of the lineup - in the team's third game in three nights. Michael Whaley and Grant Webermin rotated back into the lineup. Spitfire scratches include Derek Lanoue, Andrew Clouthier, Troy Passingham and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks. Attendance at the Gatorade Garden City Complex in St. Catherines was 2,822.
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 6 Ryan Ellis
2. NIAG – 23 Mitchell Theoret
3. WSR – 1 Jack Campbell
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Spits ‘Locke Up’ First Road Win
In Play on Facebook
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Eric Locke scored on a last second rush in the third period to give the Windsor Spitfires their first road win of the season Friday night in Erie.
Tom Kuhnhackl and Zack Kassian had the other goals for the Spits, in a huge 3-2 victory.
But the night didn't start out so well.
After Stephen Johnston was penalized for slashing, Erie's power play opened the scoring at 7:46 of the first period. Tyler Hostetter’s point shot was tipped in by Mike Cazzola, who was somehow left all alone in front of the Spitfires net.
The Spitfires (8-6-0-1) had three power play opportunities of their own in the period, but Ramis Sadikov stopped all 10 shots he faced, as the Otters took their one-goal lead to the intermission.
The Spits got a badly-needed break that evened the score early in the second. A Tom Kuhnhackl shot deflected off Hostetter and past Sadikov, to tie the game 1-1 at the 1:14 mark.
The goal sparked the visitors, as the Spitfires had several chances to take the lead. But it was the Otters that struck next.
After Brett Appio’s shot was blocked by Michael MacIntyre, the Erie winger corralled his own rebound and surprised Jack Campbell with a quick shot to the gloveside at 9:02.
But just more than a minute later, Zack Kassian pulled the Spits even again, tapping a Ryan Ellis rebound past Sadikov, to tie the game at 2-2.
The teams played a tight third period. But with the game looking bound for overtime, Locke took a pass from Kenny Ryan and fired a shot past Sadikov from the right circle, giving the Spitfires a dramatic win with his fifth goal of the season, at the 19:52 mark.
NOTES
The Spitfires were 0-for-5 on the power play. The Otters were 1-for-6 ... Eric Locke's second period assist extended his point streak to seven games. Derek Lanoue and Nick Czinder were back in the lineup Friday, as Grant Webermin and Michael Whaley sat. Troy Passingham and Cam Fowler. who is still with the Anaheim Ducks, were the other scratches.
THREE STARS
1. ER – 8 Brett Appio
2. ER – 27 Adam Pelech
3. WSR – 55 Eric Locke
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Eric Locke scored on a last second rush in the third period to give the Windsor Spitfires their first road win of the season Friday night in Erie.
Tom Kuhnhackl and Zack Kassian had the other goals for the Spits, in a huge 3-2 victory.
But the night didn't start out so well.
After Stephen Johnston was penalized for slashing, Erie's power play opened the scoring at 7:46 of the first period. Tyler Hostetter’s point shot was tipped in by Mike Cazzola, who was somehow left all alone in front of the Spitfires net.
The Spitfires (8-6-0-1) had three power play opportunities of their own in the period, but Ramis Sadikov stopped all 10 shots he faced, as the Otters took their one-goal lead to the intermission.
The Spits got a badly-needed break that evened the score early in the second. A Tom Kuhnhackl shot deflected off Hostetter and past Sadikov, to tie the game 1-1 at the 1:14 mark.
The goal sparked the visitors, as the Spitfires had several chances to take the lead. But it was the Otters that struck next.
After Brett Appio’s shot was blocked by Michael MacIntyre, the Erie winger corralled his own rebound and surprised Jack Campbell with a quick shot to the gloveside at 9:02.
But just more than a minute later, Zack Kassian pulled the Spits even again, tapping a Ryan Ellis rebound past Sadikov, to tie the game at 2-2.
The teams played a tight third period. But with the game looking bound for overtime, Locke took a pass from Kenny Ryan and fired a shot past Sadikov from the right circle, giving the Spitfires a dramatic win with his fifth goal of the season, at the 19:52 mark.
NOTES
The Spitfires were 0-for-5 on the power play. The Otters were 1-for-6 ... Eric Locke's second period assist extended his point streak to seven games. Derek Lanoue and Nick Czinder were back in the lineup Friday, as Grant Webermin and Michael Whaley sat. Troy Passingham and Cam Fowler. who is still with the Anaheim Ducks, were the other scratches.
THREE STARS
1. ER – 8 Brett Appio
2. ER – 27 Adam Pelech
3. WSR – 55 Eric Locke
Friday, October 29, 2010
Jack’s Back! Spits Netminder Shines!
In Play on Facebook
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
After a relatively quiet period that saw both teams exchange a few quality chances, a big hit by Zack Kassian drew the ire of Soo defenceman Dylan King, who came to the defence of a crumpled teammate.
The fight was little more than a wrestling match. But King was given an instigator penalty that allowed the Spitfires a chance to grab the lead late in the first. Alexander Khokhlachev cashed in on the man advantage, putting home a Ryan Ellis rebound through traffic at 18:54.
The Spitfires (7-6-0-1) took the lead into the second period.
Brett Findlay pulled the Greyhounds even, early in the frame, on the power play. Findlay was able to catch a bounce off the lively end boards behind Jack Campbell to knot the game 1-1.
The Spitfires regained their lead late in the period when Kassian stuffed home a quick wraparound past Soo goalie Chris Perugini, just as a Spitfires power play had expired. Then a little more than three minutes later, Eric Locke padded the Spitfires lead at 16:21, tipping home a Steven Trojanovic point shot, to give the Spitfires a 3-1 lead heading into the intermission.
But the Greyhounds came out with renewed enthusiasm in the third period, and pulled to within a goal early. A scramble in front of Campbell left Greyhound forward Daniel Catenacci alone long enough to chip the puck over top of the flailing netminder, just 40 seconds in.
With the Greyhounds surging, Campbell came up with several big saves in the third period, denying the visitors the tying goal.
Kenny Ryan added an empty netter to seal the win.
NOTES
Jack Campbell turned aside 23 of 25 shots. The Spitfires fired 38 shots at Perugini. The Spitfires were 1-for-4 on the power play. The Greyhounds went 1-for-3.... Eric Locke’s goal in the second period extended his point streak to six games...The Spitfires dressed seven defencemen, as Grant Webermin returned to the lineup. Spitfire scratches include Derek Lanoue, Nick Czinder, Troy Passingham and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks. Attendance at tonight’s game was 5,993.
THREE STARS
1. WSR – Zack Kassian
2. WSR – Eric Locke
3. SSM – Brett Thompson
UP NEXT
The Spitfires hit the road for four games starting tomorrow (October 28) in Erie against the Otters. Game time is 7:00pm.
PHOTOS
Check out action shots from the October 28 game at the WFCU on the In Play! facebook page
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
 |
| Jack Campbell, October 28, 2010 vs Soo Grey Hounds Photo by Joe Lemire / In Play! Magazine |
Jack Campbell’s 23-save performance helped the Spitfires edge the Sault St. Marie Greyhounds 4-2 Thursday night at the WFCU.
The Spits got goals from four different players to win for the seventh time at home this season.After a relatively quiet period that saw both teams exchange a few quality chances, a big hit by Zack Kassian drew the ire of Soo defenceman Dylan King, who came to the defence of a crumpled teammate.
The fight was little more than a wrestling match. But King was given an instigator penalty that allowed the Spitfires a chance to grab the lead late in the first. Alexander Khokhlachev cashed in on the man advantage, putting home a Ryan Ellis rebound through traffic at 18:54.
The Spitfires (7-6-0-1) took the lead into the second period.
Brett Findlay pulled the Greyhounds even, early in the frame, on the power play. Findlay was able to catch a bounce off the lively end boards behind Jack Campbell to knot the game 1-1.
The Spitfires regained their lead late in the period when Kassian stuffed home a quick wraparound past Soo goalie Chris Perugini, just as a Spitfires power play had expired. Then a little more than three minutes later, Eric Locke padded the Spitfires lead at 16:21, tipping home a Steven Trojanovic point shot, to give the Spitfires a 3-1 lead heading into the intermission.
But the Greyhounds came out with renewed enthusiasm in the third period, and pulled to within a goal early. A scramble in front of Campbell left Greyhound forward Daniel Catenacci alone long enough to chip the puck over top of the flailing netminder, just 40 seconds in.
With the Greyhounds surging, Campbell came up with several big saves in the third period, denying the visitors the tying goal.
Kenny Ryan added an empty netter to seal the win.
NOTES
Jack Campbell turned aside 23 of 25 shots. The Spitfires fired 38 shots at Perugini. The Spitfires were 1-for-4 on the power play. The Greyhounds went 1-for-3.... Eric Locke’s goal in the second period extended his point streak to six games...The Spitfires dressed seven defencemen, as Grant Webermin returned to the lineup. Spitfire scratches include Derek Lanoue, Nick Czinder, Troy Passingham and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks. Attendance at tonight’s game was 5,993.
THREE STARS
1. WSR – Zack Kassian
2. WSR – Eric Locke
3. SSM – Brett Thompson
UP NEXT
The Spitfires hit the road for four games starting tomorrow (October 28) in Erie against the Otters. Game time is 7:00pm.
PHOTOS
Check out action shots from the October 28 game at the WFCU on the In Play! facebook page
Monday, October 25, 2010
Tom Kuhnhackl – The Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week
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| Tom Kuhnhackl #14 against the Plymouth Whalers. 9/23/10 Photo: Joe Lemire/In Play! Magazine |
On Thursday, Kuhnhackl scored two goals and was selected as the game’s second star in Windsor’s 4-1 victory over the Belleville Bulls at the WFCU Centre. The following night, he scored one goal in the Spitfires 4-3 road loss to the Guelph Storm.
Kuhnhackl, an 18 year-old native of Landshut, Germany is in his first season with Windsor and was selected by the Spitfires with the 24th overall pick in the 2010 CHL Import Draft. He was also selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the fourth round, 110th overall in the 2010 NHL Draft. In 13 games this season, he has five goals and two assists for seven points.
The two-time defending MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Champions will host the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds this Thursday (October 28th) at the WFCU Centre. Game time is set for 7:05 p.m.
2010-2011 Windsor Spitfires’ Players of the Week
Tom Kuhnhackl – Oct. 18 – Oct. 24
Eric Locke – Oct. 11 – Oct. 17, 2010
Zack Kassian – Oct. 4 – Oct. 11, 2010
Kyle Tarini – Sep. 27 – Oct. 3, 2010
Alexander Khokhlachev – Sep. 21 – Sep. 27, 2010
Read In Play! Magazine Here
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Late Goal Sinks Spits
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Peter Holland's second goal of the night gave the Guelph Storm a late 4-3 win over the Windsor Spitfires Friday night in Guelph.
Holland scored on a busted play with just 1:52 to play, after the Spitfires had tied the game for the third time.
Nick Ebert scored two goals for Windsor and Alexander Khokhlachev had two assists.
The hard-luck loss keeps the Spitfires (6-6-0-1) winless on the road.
The Storm found the score sheet early in the first period, when Tyler Carroll smacked a puck out of mid-air and past Troy Passingham to make it 1-0.
The Spits would tie it when, fresh out of the penalty box, Alexander Khoklachev hit a streaking Nick Ebert with a creative behind-the-back pass. Ebert busted in with great speed and snapped a shot over Storm goaltender Brandon Foote, knotting the game at 1-1, at 17:40.
That's the way the first ended.
The Spitfires had a golden chance to pull ahead on a 5-on-3 power play, midway through the period. But it was the Storm that took the lead. Peter Holland scooped up a loose puck in the neutral zone and beat Troy Passingham, through the five-hole, at 10:33 of the second, to make it 2-1.
Tom Kuhnhackl pulled the Spitfires even at 2-2 just a few shifts later. And again, it was Khoklachev who sprung him. This time he sent a short pass to the surging German forward, who blasted it past Foote.
The Spitfires carried the offensive pressure for the remainder of the second, but remained tied with the Storm at 2-2, after 40 minutes.
Michael Latta shifted the momentum in Guelph's favour, once again, early in the third period, sliding a tricky shot through a screen, just 1:10 in to make it 3-2.
But for a third time, the Spitfires fought back to pull even. An Ebert wrist shot from the point handcuffed Foote, for his second of the game, to make it 3-3 at the 7:14 mark.
With just under two minutes to go, a busted play left Holland all alone in front of the Spits goal for an easy tap-in, and his second goal of the night, sealing a late 4-3 win.
NOTES
Troy Passingham stopped 25 of 29 shots ... The Spitfires were 0-for-6 on the power play. Guelph went 0-for-4 with the man advantage... The Spitfires out-shot Guelph 37-29 ... Kuhnhackl’s goal was his third in the last two games...Eric Locke extended his point streak to five games, assisting on Ebert’s second goal... Spitfire scratches included Grant Webermin, Andew Clouthier, Josh Malecki and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks.
THREE STARS
1. GUE - 6 Tim Campbell
2. WSR – 22 Nick Ebert
3. GUE – 13 Peter Holland
windsorspitfires.com
Peter Holland's second goal of the night gave the Guelph Storm a late 4-3 win over the Windsor Spitfires Friday night in Guelph.
Holland scored on a busted play with just 1:52 to play, after the Spitfires had tied the game for the third time.
Nick Ebert scored two goals for Windsor and Alexander Khokhlachev had two assists.
The hard-luck loss keeps the Spitfires (6-6-0-1) winless on the road.
The Storm found the score sheet early in the first period, when Tyler Carroll smacked a puck out of mid-air and past Troy Passingham to make it 1-0.
The Spits would tie it when, fresh out of the penalty box, Alexander Khoklachev hit a streaking Nick Ebert with a creative behind-the-back pass. Ebert busted in with great speed and snapped a shot over Storm goaltender Brandon Foote, knotting the game at 1-1, at 17:40.
That's the way the first ended.
The Spitfires had a golden chance to pull ahead on a 5-on-3 power play, midway through the period. But it was the Storm that took the lead. Peter Holland scooped up a loose puck in the neutral zone and beat Troy Passingham, through the five-hole, at 10:33 of the second, to make it 2-1.
Tom Kuhnhackl pulled the Spitfires even at 2-2 just a few shifts later. And again, it was Khoklachev who sprung him. This time he sent a short pass to the surging German forward, who blasted it past Foote.
The Spitfires carried the offensive pressure for the remainder of the second, but remained tied with the Storm at 2-2, after 40 minutes.
Michael Latta shifted the momentum in Guelph's favour, once again, early in the third period, sliding a tricky shot through a screen, just 1:10 in to make it 3-2.
But for a third time, the Spitfires fought back to pull even. An Ebert wrist shot from the point handcuffed Foote, for his second of the game, to make it 3-3 at the 7:14 mark.
With just under two minutes to go, a busted play left Holland all alone in front of the Spits goal for an easy tap-in, and his second goal of the night, sealing a late 4-3 win.
NOTES
Troy Passingham stopped 25 of 29 shots ... The Spitfires were 0-for-6 on the power play. Guelph went 0-for-4 with the man advantage... The Spitfires out-shot Guelph 37-29 ... Kuhnhackl’s goal was his third in the last two games...Eric Locke extended his point streak to five games, assisting on Ebert’s second goal... Spitfire scratches included Grant Webermin, Andew Clouthier, Josh Malecki and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks.
THREE STARS
1. GUE - 6 Tim Campbell
2. WSR – 22 Nick Ebert
3. GUE – 13 Peter Holland
Windsor Spitfire Player of the Week - 10 Questions
Eric Locke
Windsor Spitfire Player of the Week
By David Clark
In Play! Magazine
A good sign to be sure, Eric Locke from the Telus Cup winning Mississauga Rep's has arrived at the WFCU, a rookie OHL offensive talent with the Windsor Spitfires. He is from Toronto and was born on November 21, 1993. Eric is 16 years of age and does his magic at centre. He has presently been inserted into a line with Zack Kassian and Zack McQueen. He is showing a +1 as of October 21 but is certain to do better because he's an offensive talent in the eyes of the Spitfire faithful. As of late, with 3 goals and 2 assists to boast about, Eric is busy feeding the two "Zack's" but allowing himself the opportunity to keep the puck and shoot when the time is right. Recently, Eric scored the lone goal against Plymouth at their new arena but Windsor lost the game 4-1. Another strong effort, on October 21 Eric scored another goal nearing the end of the first period against Belleville. He will be eligible for the NHL draft in 2012 and was happy to be named the Windsor Spitfire Player of the Week just recently. Eric brings big game experience to the table from his activities at the Telus Cup last season and appears to be moving towards a banner year with the Spitfires. On a line with the two veteran Spitfires, Eric is likely to learn a thing or two about scoring in the OHL.
IN PLAY!: Regarding the Telus Cup, what are you bringing from that experience to your new home with the Spitfires?
ERIC LOCKE: Last year I was lucky to be on a winning team and advance through OHFs to the Telus Cup. The hockey at Telus was very competitive and every game intense. These were the first hockey games I'd play which were full 60 minute games, which helped make the transition easier. There were also several CHL prospects in the tournament many who are playing in the CHL this year, so it was a great eye opener to see a lot of young hockey players like myself. Also just challenging for a national title is a great experience, something which Windsor's won the last two years. I've been able to transfer my pride and honour from Mississauga to Windsor.
IP: How many years have you been involved in organized hockey and where did you play before Mississauga?
EL: I started playing hockey when I was four (like most kids). I played for the local arena in Toronto called George Bell. I played house league, select and then moved from there into the GTHL where I played a year of A and a year of AA for the Weston Hawks. My first year playing for the Hawks was a very successful year as we lost 1 game all year and won the GTHL playoffs and GTA playdowns. After being on a struggling AA team, I joined the Mississauga Reps AAA who were then called the Mississauga Ice Dogs. Last year was my 6th year with the organization, which I was very happy to play for.
IP: You’re flexing your muscles offensively right now, where do you see yourself down the road this season if you keep getting the points?
EL: I really haven't changed my game much; I suffered a slight wrist injury during the pre-season and felt I lost a bit of strength off my shot. My wrist being completely healed now has given me better opportunities to make plays and shoot the puck. I've received a great opportunity to play with Kassian and MacQueen who are both vets in the league and know how to score. If we continue to produce and the coaches are happy we'll probably stay on a line further into the season.
IP: What pointers have you picked up since training camp from the veterans on the club?
EL: It's really an honour to be playing with some of the vets we have on the team. Last year I watched players like Ryan Ellis and Jack Campbell in the World Jrs. and this year I'm on a team with them. The biggest thing I've picked up on is to stay positive and consistent, it's a very long season and we have to learn to deal with adversity and be able to bring our A game as much as possible.
IP: What has Bob Jones been telling you about how to implement his system and play your role on the team?
EL: The coaches have tried a couple systems out so far this year and they tell us, "believe in the systems, they've won us two Memorial Cups". I follow the systems and try and execute them 100% of the time. Playing with very skilled guys like Kassian and MacQueen we are expected to put up some points and help our team offensively. I'm also getting some PK time and I'm really working hard at perfecting our PK system as we've struggled early on with it.
IP: Since Zack Kassian and Ryan Ellis came back from Buffalo and Nashville, how has the team changed with their leadership and experience inserted into the line-up?
EL: Ellis and Kassian are both great leaders and lead by example on the ice and keeping us focused in the dressing room. They know we have a young core of guys and are helping us out in any way possible. They make me feel comfortable and welcome which has made the transition of living/playing in Windsor a lot easier.
IP: Are you planning for a professional hockey career after the OHL?
EL: I still have 3-4 years left in the OHL so I'm not really looking too far ahead right now. Continuing to play hockey after the OHL is an ambition of mine whether it be University hockey in the CIS league or professional hockey like the NHL and AHL. I'm willing to play the game I love for as long as possible and it would be a dream come true if I were to make it professionally.
IP: What areas do you feel you need to improve upon?
EL: After my first month in the OHL, I've got used to the game and made some discoveries since. You really have to hang around the net and be willing to take a cross check or high stick in order to score a goal. I believe I could improve on all facets of my game to make me a better overall player. However, recently I feel I need to work on finishing off chances and getting my shots off quicker and making sure they aren't getting blocked. Before and after practice I'm constantly shooting and always trying to improve.
IP: How difficult was it to go up to Major Junior from Mississauga?
EL: Major Midget hockey gets less credit than it should. By the end of the year the hockey we were playing was compared to Jr. A and B leagues around Ontario. Saying this, the jump wasn't easy. I had a very good off season where I combined physical training and hockey in a good mix. The hockey kept getting better throughout training camp, to exhibition, to regular season, but I thought I kept the pace and although it's been hard at times, this is definitely where I want to be.
IP: When you look out at the (OHL) talent out there, who do you think will go number one in the first round this season?
EL: There are many good players out there, and there is a huge toss-up between who will go number 1 this year. I know there's some pretty good players from Europe and the other leagues in the CHL. Puempel had a pretty good season last year, and Murphy has put up some pretty good numbers this year so far. It really is a huge toss-up and you never know who's improved their game and will step up and have a phenomenal year.
Windsor Spitfire Player of the Week
By David Clark
In Play! Magazine
A good sign to be sure, Eric Locke from the Telus Cup winning Mississauga Rep's has arrived at the WFCU, a rookie OHL offensive talent with the Windsor Spitfires. He is from Toronto and was born on November 21, 1993. Eric is 16 years of age and does his magic at centre. He has presently been inserted into a line with Zack Kassian and Zack McQueen. He is showing a +1 as of October 21 but is certain to do better because he's an offensive talent in the eyes of the Spitfire faithful. As of late, with 3 goals and 2 assists to boast about, Eric is busy feeding the two "Zack's" but allowing himself the opportunity to keep the puck and shoot when the time is right. Recently, Eric scored the lone goal against Plymouth at their new arena but Windsor lost the game 4-1. Another strong effort, on October 21 Eric scored another goal nearing the end of the first period against Belleville. He will be eligible for the NHL draft in 2012 and was happy to be named the Windsor Spitfire Player of the Week just recently. Eric brings big game experience to the table from his activities at the Telus Cup last season and appears to be moving towards a banner year with the Spitfires. On a line with the two veteran Spitfires, Eric is likely to learn a thing or two about scoring in the OHL.
IN PLAY!: Regarding the Telus Cup, what are you bringing from that experience to your new home with the Spitfires?
ERIC LOCKE: Last year I was lucky to be on a winning team and advance through OHFs to the Telus Cup. The hockey at Telus was very competitive and every game intense. These were the first hockey games I'd play which were full 60 minute games, which helped make the transition easier. There were also several CHL prospects in the tournament many who are playing in the CHL this year, so it was a great eye opener to see a lot of young hockey players like myself. Also just challenging for a national title is a great experience, something which Windsor's won the last two years. I've been able to transfer my pride and honour from Mississauga to Windsor.
IP: How many years have you been involved in organized hockey and where did you play before Mississauga?
EL: I started playing hockey when I was four (like most kids). I played for the local arena in Toronto called George Bell. I played house league, select and then moved from there into the GTHL where I played a year of A and a year of AA for the Weston Hawks. My first year playing for the Hawks was a very successful year as we lost 1 game all year and won the GTHL playoffs and GTA playdowns. After being on a struggling AA team, I joined the Mississauga Reps AAA who were then called the Mississauga Ice Dogs. Last year was my 6th year with the organization, which I was very happy to play for.
IP: You’re flexing your muscles offensively right now, where do you see yourself down the road this season if you keep getting the points?
EL: I really haven't changed my game much; I suffered a slight wrist injury during the pre-season and felt I lost a bit of strength off my shot. My wrist being completely healed now has given me better opportunities to make plays and shoot the puck. I've received a great opportunity to play with Kassian and MacQueen who are both vets in the league and know how to score. If we continue to produce and the coaches are happy we'll probably stay on a line further into the season.
 |
| Locke celebrates after scoring against Belleville Oct 22, 2010 Photo by Joe Lemire / In Play! Magazine |
EL: It's really an honour to be playing with some of the vets we have on the team. Last year I watched players like Ryan Ellis and Jack Campbell in the World Jrs. and this year I'm on a team with them. The biggest thing I've picked up on is to stay positive and consistent, it's a very long season and we have to learn to deal with adversity and be able to bring our A game as much as possible.
IP: What has Bob Jones been telling you about how to implement his system and play your role on the team?
EL: The coaches have tried a couple systems out so far this year and they tell us, "believe in the systems, they've won us two Memorial Cups". I follow the systems and try and execute them 100% of the time. Playing with very skilled guys like Kassian and MacQueen we are expected to put up some points and help our team offensively. I'm also getting some PK time and I'm really working hard at perfecting our PK system as we've struggled early on with it.
IP: Since Zack Kassian and Ryan Ellis came back from Buffalo and Nashville, how has the team changed with their leadership and experience inserted into the line-up?
EL: Ellis and Kassian are both great leaders and lead by example on the ice and keeping us focused in the dressing room. They know we have a young core of guys and are helping us out in any way possible. They make me feel comfortable and welcome which has made the transition of living/playing in Windsor a lot easier.
IP: Are you planning for a professional hockey career after the OHL?
EL: I still have 3-4 years left in the OHL so I'm not really looking too far ahead right now. Continuing to play hockey after the OHL is an ambition of mine whether it be University hockey in the CIS league or professional hockey like the NHL and AHL. I'm willing to play the game I love for as long as possible and it would be a dream come true if I were to make it professionally.
IP: What areas do you feel you need to improve upon?
EL: After my first month in the OHL, I've got used to the game and made some discoveries since. You really have to hang around the net and be willing to take a cross check or high stick in order to score a goal. I believe I could improve on all facets of my game to make me a better overall player. However, recently I feel I need to work on finishing off chances and getting my shots off quicker and making sure they aren't getting blocked. Before and after practice I'm constantly shooting and always trying to improve.
IP: How difficult was it to go up to Major Junior from Mississauga?
EL: Major Midget hockey gets less credit than it should. By the end of the year the hockey we were playing was compared to Jr. A and B leagues around Ontario. Saying this, the jump wasn't easy. I had a very good off season where I combined physical training and hockey in a good mix. The hockey kept getting better throughout training camp, to exhibition, to regular season, but I thought I kept the pace and although it's been hard at times, this is definitely where I want to be.
IP: When you look out at the (OHL) talent out there, who do you think will go number one in the first round this season?
EL: There are many good players out there, and there is a huge toss-up between who will go number 1 this year. I know there's some pretty good players from Europe and the other leagues in the CHL. Puempel had a pretty good season last year, and Murphy has put up some pretty good numbers this year so far. It really is a huge toss-up and you never know who's improved their game and will step up and have a phenomenal year.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Campbell Shines as Spits Down Bulls
In Play on Facebook
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Tom Kuhnhackl scored twice and Jack Campbell turned in his best performance of the year, as the Windsor Spitfires took a decisive 4-1 decision over the Belleville Bulls Thursday night at the WFCU Centre.
Kuhnhackl got the Spitfires (6-5-0-1) rolling early in the game, finishing off a nice feed from Alexander Khoklachev at 1:51 of the first period.
Eric Locke gave the Spits a two-goal lead later in the frame. Initially credited to Zack Kassian, Locke’s wrist shot deflected off a Belleville defender in front of the net and past Tyson Teichmann, at 11:04, to make it 2-0 Windsor.
Campbell's strong play kept Belleville off the board. And the Spitfires headed into the intermission up 2-0, despite being out-shot 14-9.
Kuhnhackl found the net again, for his fourth goal of the season, on an early power play in the second period. His bullet wrist shot beat Teichmann upstairs at 3:09, to give the Spitfires a comfortable 3-0 edge.
Again, Campbell made several big saves in the period, and stopped all 25 shots he faced through 40 minutes.
The third period was uneventful, until the Spitfires extended their lead to four goals. Zack Kassian found Alexander Khokhlachev in front of the net, and the smooth forward made no mistake, putting away his seventh goal of the year.
Unfortunately, Campbell’s shutout bid came to an end moments later, as Michael Curtis slid a puck home with just 2:58 to play.
NOTES
Jack Campbell faced 31 shots and turned aside 30 in arguably his best start of the season...The Spitfires threw 36 shots at Teichmann in the Bulls net... The Spitfires were 1-for-5 on the power play... Belleville went 0-for-6 with the man advantage... Eric Locke extended his point streak to four games with his first period goal... Locke was named Spitfires Player of the Week for the week ending Sunday, October 17... Kenny Ryan led the Spitfires with four blocked shots, and earned praise from Campbell after the game for his outstanding defensive efforts ... Ryan Ellis dropped the mitts with Curtis, who caught Campbell with a high-stick late in the second period...Zack Kassian and Ryan Ellis were named to the OHL roster for the Subway Super Series (November 11 in London) earlier today... Spitfire scratches include Nick Czinder, Grant Webermin, Troy Passingham and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks. Attendance at tonight’s game was 6,020
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 1 Jack Campbell
2. WSR – 14 Tom Kuhnhackl
3. WSR – 26 Kenny Ryan
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Tom Kuhnhackl scored twice and Jack Campbell turned in his best performance of the year, as the Windsor Spitfires took a decisive 4-1 decision over the Belleville Bulls Thursday night at the WFCU Centre.
Kuhnhackl got the Spitfires (6-5-0-1) rolling early in the game, finishing off a nice feed from Alexander Khoklachev at 1:51 of the first period.
Eric Locke gave the Spits a two-goal lead later in the frame. Initially credited to Zack Kassian, Locke’s wrist shot deflected off a Belleville defender in front of the net and past Tyson Teichmann, at 11:04, to make it 2-0 Windsor.
Campbell's strong play kept Belleville off the board. And the Spitfires headed into the intermission up 2-0, despite being out-shot 14-9.
Kuhnhackl found the net again, for his fourth goal of the season, on an early power play in the second period. His bullet wrist shot beat Teichmann upstairs at 3:09, to give the Spitfires a comfortable 3-0 edge.
Again, Campbell made several big saves in the period, and stopped all 25 shots he faced through 40 minutes.
The third period was uneventful, until the Spitfires extended their lead to four goals. Zack Kassian found Alexander Khokhlachev in front of the net, and the smooth forward made no mistake, putting away his seventh goal of the year.
Unfortunately, Campbell’s shutout bid came to an end moments later, as Michael Curtis slid a puck home with just 2:58 to play.
NOTES
Jack Campbell faced 31 shots and turned aside 30 in arguably his best start of the season...The Spitfires threw 36 shots at Teichmann in the Bulls net... The Spitfires were 1-for-5 on the power play... Belleville went 0-for-6 with the man advantage... Eric Locke extended his point streak to four games with his first period goal... Locke was named Spitfires Player of the Week for the week ending Sunday, October 17... Kenny Ryan led the Spitfires with four blocked shots, and earned praise from Campbell after the game for his outstanding defensive efforts ... Ryan Ellis dropped the mitts with Curtis, who caught Campbell with a high-stick late in the second period...Zack Kassian and Ryan Ellis were named to the OHL roster for the Subway Super Series (November 11 in London) earlier today... Spitfire scratches include Nick Czinder, Grant Webermin, Troy Passingham and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks. Attendance at tonight’s game was 6,020
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 1 Jack Campbell
2. WSR – 14 Tom Kuhnhackl
3. WSR – 26 Kenny Ryan
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Passingham Performs Well Early in 2010/2011
By David Clark
In Play! Magazine
Troy Passingham is opening a few eyes this season, starting with 3 wins at this juncture. Troy came to us from the St. John’s Seadogs early in 2009, leaving behind a less than industrious record with this QMJHL outfit. He permanently relieved Josh Unice and in time he managed to shine with the Spitfires with 35 wins and 10 losses in the 2009/2010 campaign. Troy was very steady throughout last season, getting near to Andrew Engelage’s OHL record for wins @ 46-4 in 2008/2009.
Passingham is a proven starter in the regular season along with Jack Campbell who has the big game and major tournament experience to offer. Troy isn’t playoff tested as of yet but he’s working on it.
At the start of this season, Passingham was amidst uncertainty, being inundated with trade rumours. An indicator of things to come, this overager has a possible future in professional hockey given his success with the Windsor Spitfires.
To be exact, on October 3rd, Passingham made 24 saves on 27 shots having surrendered only one to Sudbury’s hard-working leader in John McFarland. It was a 6-3 final in favour of the Spitfires.
In a supportive role, Passingham came in for Jack Campbell and stopped 13 of 13 in a nail-biter at the WFCU on October 9th. London got the win in a thrilling shootout that edged out the Spitfires 5-4.
The Sarnia Sting were in town on October 11 having previously secured second place in the division. Passingham was belted 33 times and only gave up three. The verdict was 5-3 for Windsor who bumped the Sting out of second and replaced them when everything was said and done.
In his last start on October 14th, the Erie Otters meant business by scoring two quick goals early in the 1st. Passingham was steady throughout the effort aside from that 1st period. This time, he was peppered by a strong offensive team in the Otters, stopping 36 of 33. Windsor defeated them 5-3.
Something must be said for Troy Passingham who is having an admirable season so far. Jack Campbell is struggling a bit but his skill will eventually prevail. He may need some more time to settle in. In 2004/2005, the history-making London Knights went with multiple goaltenders including Gerald Coleman, Ryan Macdonald and Adam Dennis. Their season amounted to 59-7-2, the best regular season record in OHL history. Why not Windsor? Passingham has earned more playing time and Campbell is a budding superstar in this league, both are deserving of ice time. Of the three games he played in, Passingham defeated two very good hockey teams and did a great job of backstopping against the London Knights in relief. Why not rotate the two a little more and see what happens?
Just a thought!
In Play! Magazine
Troy Passingham is opening a few eyes this season, starting with 3 wins at this juncture. Troy came to us from the St. John’s Seadogs early in 2009, leaving behind a less than industrious record with this QMJHL outfit. He permanently relieved Josh Unice and in time he managed to shine with the Spitfires with 35 wins and 10 losses in the 2009/2010 campaign. Troy was very steady throughout last season, getting near to Andrew Engelage’s OHL record for wins @ 46-4 in 2008/2009.
Passingham is a proven starter in the regular season along with Jack Campbell who has the big game and major tournament experience to offer. Troy isn’t playoff tested as of yet but he’s working on it.
At the start of this season, Passingham was amidst uncertainty, being inundated with trade rumours. An indicator of things to come, this overager has a possible future in professional hockey given his success with the Windsor Spitfires.
To be exact, on October 3rd, Passingham made 24 saves on 27 shots having surrendered only one to Sudbury’s hard-working leader in John McFarland. It was a 6-3 final in favour of the Spitfires.
In a supportive role, Passingham came in for Jack Campbell and stopped 13 of 13 in a nail-biter at the WFCU on October 9th. London got the win in a thrilling shootout that edged out the Spitfires 5-4.
The Sarnia Sting were in town on October 11 having previously secured second place in the division. Passingham was belted 33 times and only gave up three. The verdict was 5-3 for Windsor who bumped the Sting out of second and replaced them when everything was said and done.
In his last start on October 14th, the Erie Otters meant business by scoring two quick goals early in the 1st. Passingham was steady throughout the effort aside from that 1st period. This time, he was peppered by a strong offensive team in the Otters, stopping 36 of 33. Windsor defeated them 5-3.
Something must be said for Troy Passingham who is having an admirable season so far. Jack Campbell is struggling a bit but his skill will eventually prevail. He may need some more time to settle in. In 2004/2005, the history-making London Knights went with multiple goaltenders including Gerald Coleman, Ryan Macdonald and Adam Dennis. Their season amounted to 59-7-2, the best regular season record in OHL history. Why not Windsor? Passingham has earned more playing time and Campbell is a budding superstar in this league, both are deserving of ice time. Of the three games he played in, Passingham defeated two very good hockey teams and did a great job of backstopping against the London Knights in relief. Why not rotate the two a little more and see what happens?
Just a thought!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Eric Locke – The Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week
In Play on Facebook
(Windsor) Rookie centre Eric Locke is the Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week as selected by the Spitfires coaching staff for the week ending Sunday, October 17th, 2010. In two games last week, Locke scored one goal and added one assist for two points.
On Thursday, Locke assisted on Michael MacIntyre’s game-winning goal with 12 minutes left in the third period as the Spitfires defeated the Erie Otters 5-3 at the WFCU Centre. In his final game of the week, Locke scored one goal in Windsor’s 4-1 road loss to the Plymouth Whalers on Saturday.
Locke, a 16 year-old native of Toronto, Ontario is in his first season with the Spitfires. In 11 games this season, he has two goals and two assists for four points.
The two-time defending MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Champions will host the Belleville Bulls this Thursday (October 21st) at the WFCU Centre. Game time is set for 7:05 p.m.
2010-2011 Windsor Spitfires’ Players of the Week
Eric Locke – Oct. 12 – Oct. 18, 2010
Zack Kassian – Oct. 4 – Oct. 11, 2010
Kyle Tarini – Sep. 28 – Oct. 3, 2010
Alexander Khokhlachev – Sep. 21 – Sep. 27, 2010
(Windsor) Rookie centre Eric Locke is the Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week as selected by the Spitfires coaching staff for the week ending Sunday, October 17th, 2010. In two games last week, Locke scored one goal and added one assist for two points.
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| Eric Locke (#55) Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week for Oct 18 Photo by Joe Lemire / In Play! Magazine |
The two-time defending MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Champions will host the Belleville Bulls this Thursday (October 21st) at the WFCU Centre. Game time is set for 7:05 p.m.
2010-2011 Windsor Spitfires’ Players of the Week
Eric Locke – Oct. 12 – Oct. 18, 2010
Zack Kassian – Oct. 4 – Oct. 11, 2010
Kyle Tarini – Sep. 28 – Oct. 3, 2010
Alexander Khokhlachev – Sep. 21 – Sep. 27, 2010
CHL Announces 2010 SUBWAY® Super Series Coaching Staffs
In Play on Facebook
Monday October 18, 2010
Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League in association with the three regional leagues the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, the Ontario Hockey League, and the Western Hockey League, today announced the coaching staffs for each of the six games of the 2010 SUBWAY® Super Series.
Each of the three regional league teams will be led by members of Canada’s National Junior Team coaching staff including Head Coach Dave Cameron who will coach Team OHL alongside Team Canada Assistant Coach George Burnett. National Junior Team Assistant André Tourigny has been named Head Coach of Team QMJHL, while Assistant Ryan Huska has been named Head Coach of Team WHL.
“This event is a great opportunity for our coaching staffs and our head scout Kevin Prendergast to get to see the players who will attend the National Junior team selection camp in December,” said Brad Pascall, Hockey Canada’s vice president of national teams/hockey operations. “This series is very important for us to evaluate players and make decisions on which players could represent Canada in Buffalo this winter.”
Tourigny returns for his second straight season behind the bench of Team QMJHL and as an Assistant with Team Canada. In his eighth season as Head Coach and General Manager of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, he also served as an Assistant Coach with Canada’s National Summer Under-18 Team at the 2008 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka and was named the QMJHL Coach of the Year in 2005-06.
Assisting Tourigny with Team QMJHL will be Gerard Gallant of the Saint John Sea Dogs for Game One of the series hosted in Saint John on Monday November 8, with Mario Duhamel of the Drummondville Voltigeurs assisting for Game Two of the series in Drummondville on Wednesday November 10. Gallant is the reigning QMJHL and CHL Coach of the Year, while Duhamel served as an Assistant Coach for Team Quebec at the 2007 Canada Winter Games.
Cameron, in his eighth season and fourth straight as Head Coach and General Manager of the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors returns for a third straight season as a coach for Team OHL. He also returns for a third straight year behind the bench for Team Canada serving as an Assistant Coach in 2009 where he won gold, before capturing silver last season as an Associate Coach for Willie Desjardins. Burnett is in his seventh straight season as Head Coach and General Manager of the Belleville Bulls. He recently served as Head Coach of Canada’s National Under-18 Team at the 2010 World Under-18 Championships before winning gold this past summer at the 2010 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka Tournament.
Assisting Cameron and Burnett for Team OHL will be Dale Hunter of the London Knights for Game Three of the series in London on Thursday November 11, with Trent Cull of the Sudbury Wolves serving as an Assistant for Game Four in Sudbury on Monday November 15. Hunter was named OHL Coach of the Year last season, while Cull is currently in his first OHL season as Head Coach in Sudbury.
Huska is in his fourth season as Head Coach of the Kelowna Rockets and will make his international coaching debut as an Assistant with Team Canada this year. He served as a Team WHL Assistant Coach last year for Game Six of the SUBWAY® Super Series, and has participated in seven Memorial Cup Championships winning four titles including three as a member of the Kamloops Blazers in 1992, 1994, and 1995, and one behind the bench as an Assistant with the Rockets in 2004.
Assisting Huska for Team WHL will be Mike Williamson of the Calgary Hitmen, with Guy Charron of the Kamloops Blazers serving behind the bench for Game Five in Kamloops on Wednesday November 17, and Dean Clark of the Prince George Cougars assisting for Game Six in Prince George on Thursday November 18. Williamson led the Hitmen to a WHL Championship title in his first season behind the bench in Calgary after spending 15 years with the Portland Winterhawks as a player and coach. Charron joined the Blazers in November 2009 with 13 years of NHL coaching experience. Clark, a former CHL Coach of the Year in 1998 with the Hitmen, earned bronze as an Assistant Coach with Canada at the 2000 World Junior Championships.
Monday October 18, 2010
Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League in association with the three regional leagues the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, the Ontario Hockey League, and the Western Hockey League, today announced the coaching staffs for each of the six games of the 2010 SUBWAY® Super Series.
Each of the three regional league teams will be led by members of Canada’s National Junior Team coaching staff including Head Coach Dave Cameron who will coach Team OHL alongside Team Canada Assistant Coach George Burnett. National Junior Team Assistant André Tourigny has been named Head Coach of Team QMJHL, while Assistant Ryan Huska has been named Head Coach of Team WHL.
“This event is a great opportunity for our coaching staffs and our head scout Kevin Prendergast to get to see the players who will attend the National Junior team selection camp in December,” said Brad Pascall, Hockey Canada’s vice president of national teams/hockey operations. “This series is very important for us to evaluate players and make decisions on which players could represent Canada in Buffalo this winter.”
Tourigny returns for his second straight season behind the bench of Team QMJHL and as an Assistant with Team Canada. In his eighth season as Head Coach and General Manager of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, he also served as an Assistant Coach with Canada’s National Summer Under-18 Team at the 2008 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka and was named the QMJHL Coach of the Year in 2005-06.
Assisting Tourigny with Team QMJHL will be Gerard Gallant of the Saint John Sea Dogs for Game One of the series hosted in Saint John on Monday November 8, with Mario Duhamel of the Drummondville Voltigeurs assisting for Game Two of the series in Drummondville on Wednesday November 10. Gallant is the reigning QMJHL and CHL Coach of the Year, while Duhamel served as an Assistant Coach for Team Quebec at the 2007 Canada Winter Games.
Cameron, in his eighth season and fourth straight as Head Coach and General Manager of the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors returns for a third straight season as a coach for Team OHL. He also returns for a third straight year behind the bench for Team Canada serving as an Assistant Coach in 2009 where he won gold, before capturing silver last season as an Associate Coach for Willie Desjardins. Burnett is in his seventh straight season as Head Coach and General Manager of the Belleville Bulls. He recently served as Head Coach of Canada’s National Under-18 Team at the 2010 World Under-18 Championships before winning gold this past summer at the 2010 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka Tournament.
Assisting Cameron and Burnett for Team OHL will be Dale Hunter of the London Knights for Game Three of the series in London on Thursday November 11, with Trent Cull of the Sudbury Wolves serving as an Assistant for Game Four in Sudbury on Monday November 15. Hunter was named OHL Coach of the Year last season, while Cull is currently in his first OHL season as Head Coach in Sudbury.
Huska is in his fourth season as Head Coach of the Kelowna Rockets and will make his international coaching debut as an Assistant with Team Canada this year. He served as a Team WHL Assistant Coach last year for Game Six of the SUBWAY® Super Series, and has participated in seven Memorial Cup Championships winning four titles including three as a member of the Kamloops Blazers in 1992, 1994, and 1995, and one behind the bench as an Assistant with the Rockets in 2004.
Assisting Huska for Team WHL will be Mike Williamson of the Calgary Hitmen, with Guy Charron of the Kamloops Blazers serving behind the bench for Game Five in Kamloops on Wednesday November 17, and Dean Clark of the Prince George Cougars assisting for Game Six in Prince George on Thursday November 18. Williamson led the Hitmen to a WHL Championship title in his first season behind the bench in Calgary after spending 15 years with the Portland Winterhawks as a player and coach. Charron joined the Blazers in November 2009 with 13 years of NHL coaching experience. Clark, a former CHL Coach of the Year in 1998 with the Hitmen, earned bronze as an Assistant Coach with Canada at the 2000 World Junior Championships.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Spits’ Road Woes Continue
In Play on Facebook
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Scott Wedgewood turned aside 34 shots to lead the Plymouth Whalers (4-4-0-1) to a 4-1 win over the Windsor Spitfires on Saturday night.
The loss was Windsor's third in as many starts on the road this season.
The Spitfires (5-5-0-1) carried the play early, peppering Whalers' netminder Scott Wedgewood with 11 shots in the first eight minutes. At the other end, Jack Campbell didn’t see much action, as the Spitfires held the Whalers to only four shots in the period.
The teams headed to the dressing room deadlocked at 0-0, but not before Zack Kassian set the physical tone for the Spitfires. The big Spitfire winger zeroed in on Plymouth star centre Alex Aleardi and unloaded a thunderous hit behind the Windsor net.
Aleardi was shaken up on the play, but would return in the second period.
After a distinct territorial advantage in the first period, the Spitfires strong play got away from them in the second. And the Whalers swung the momentum with two goals in a 53-second span early in the period.
RJ Mahalak got a stick on Austin Levi’s point shot and tipped it by Campbell at the 2:45 mark. Plymouth padded their lead at 3:38, when Robbie Czarnik jumped on a puck Campbell misplayed and scored to make it 2-0 Whalers.
That's the way the second period ended.
In desperate need of a goal, the Spitfires started the third period with a big chance on the power play. And they took full advantage. A turnover by Levi in front of the Whalers' net allowed Eric Locke to cut the Whalers lead 2-1.
But the Spits' fate was sealed when Garrett Meurs restored the Whalers' two-goal lead at 7:35, after a costly defensive turnover by Kassian.
Stefan Noesen later added an insurance goal on the power play, tipping home a point shot from Jay Gilbert at 13:48, to seal the win.
NOTES
Jack Campbell made 21 saves on 25 shots. The Spitfires were 1-for-4 on the power play. Plymouth went 1-for-4 on the man advantage... Kassian's five-game point streak ended tonight. He had a whopping 14 points… Andrew Clouthier returned to the Spitfires line-up after missing five games due to a suspension… Spitfire scratches include Alexander Khokhlachev (immigration issues), Steven Trojanovic, Troy Passingham and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks.
THREE STARS
1. *PLY *– 29 Scott Wedgewood
2. *PLY *– 11 Stefan Noesen
3. *PLY *– 5 Jay Gilbert
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Scott Wedgewood turned aside 34 shots to lead the Plymouth Whalers (4-4-0-1) to a 4-1 win over the Windsor Spitfires on Saturday night.
The loss was Windsor's third in as many starts on the road this season.
The Spitfires (5-5-0-1) carried the play early, peppering Whalers' netminder Scott Wedgewood with 11 shots in the first eight minutes. At the other end, Jack Campbell didn’t see much action, as the Spitfires held the Whalers to only four shots in the period.
The teams headed to the dressing room deadlocked at 0-0, but not before Zack Kassian set the physical tone for the Spitfires. The big Spitfire winger zeroed in on Plymouth star centre Alex Aleardi and unloaded a thunderous hit behind the Windsor net.
Aleardi was shaken up on the play, but would return in the second period.
After a distinct territorial advantage in the first period, the Spitfires strong play got away from them in the second. And the Whalers swung the momentum with two goals in a 53-second span early in the period.
RJ Mahalak got a stick on Austin Levi’s point shot and tipped it by Campbell at the 2:45 mark. Plymouth padded their lead at 3:38, when Robbie Czarnik jumped on a puck Campbell misplayed and scored to make it 2-0 Whalers.
That's the way the second period ended.
In desperate need of a goal, the Spitfires started the third period with a big chance on the power play. And they took full advantage. A turnover by Levi in front of the Whalers' net allowed Eric Locke to cut the Whalers lead 2-1.
But the Spits' fate was sealed when Garrett Meurs restored the Whalers' two-goal lead at 7:35, after a costly defensive turnover by Kassian.
Stefan Noesen later added an insurance goal on the power play, tipping home a point shot from Jay Gilbert at 13:48, to seal the win.
NOTES
Jack Campbell made 21 saves on 25 shots. The Spitfires were 1-for-4 on the power play. Plymouth went 1-for-4 on the man advantage... Kassian's five-game point streak ended tonight. He had a whopping 14 points… Andrew Clouthier returned to the Spitfires line-up after missing five games due to a suspension… Spitfire scratches include Alexander Khokhlachev (immigration issues), Steven Trojanovic, Troy Passingham and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks.
THREE STARS
1. *PLY *– 29 Scott Wedgewood
2. *PLY *– 11 Stefan Noesen
3. *PLY *– 5 Jay Gilbert
Friday, October 15, 2010
Spits Tough One Out, Down Erie
In Play on Facebook
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Troy Passingham made 33 saves as the Windsor Spitfires edged the Erie Otters 5-3 Thursday night at the WFCU.
After an early exchange of chances, the Otters opened the scoring on their first power play of the evening. Kenny Ryan’s attempt to break up a cross-crease pass accidentally directed the puck past Passingham at 12:16 to give the Otters a 1-0 lead. The goal was credited to Derek Holden.
Just over a minute later the Otters would strike again. Matthew Paton and Jeremy Gottzman crashed the Spitfires net and Paton was able to push the puck past Passingham to give the Otters a 2-0 cushion at 13:19 of the first.
In a hole early, the Spitfires quickly struck with two goals of their own.
The teams headed to the dressing-room all knotted up 2-2 after one.
Both teams came out swinging in the second. Quite literally.
A spirited scrap between Kyle Tarini and Mitch Gaulton started the second off with a bang. The fight seemed to spark the Spitfires, whose offensive pressure forced the Otters into a pair of penalties.
The Spits cashed in on a 5-on-3 advantage about five minutes in, when Stephen Johnston one-timed a Kassian pass home to put the Spitfires up 3-2.
The Spitfires took that lead into the third period. But the lead would be shortlived. Chris Marchese buried a rebound, at 5:04, to tie the game up once again, at 3-3.
Otters' forward Jordan Coccimiglio had a chance to pull his team ahead shorthanded, but Passingham stoned him on the breakaway. The save would prove crucial for the Spitfires, who regained the lead a minute later. Michael MacIntyre wired home his fifth of the season off a nice one-time pass from Eric Locke, at 7:59, to put the Spitfires on top 4-3.
Led by Passingham, the home side shut down the Otters for the rest of the third period., before Kassian added the insurance marker with an empty net goal in the final minute to seal the 5-3 win.
NOTES
Michael MacIntyre had the game-winning goal - his third of the year, tied for tops in the OHL ... Passingham made his second consecutive start and made 33 saves for his third win of the year...The Spitfires were 1-for-7 on the power play. Erie went 2-for-4 with the man advantage... The Spitfires dressed seven defenders with Grant Webermin jumping back in... Michael MacIntyre’s fight in the second with Matthew Paton required the Otters forward to receive some medical attention after the bout. Webermin and Chris Marchese, a couple of '94s, also fought... Craig Duninck and Brady Austin also chucked'em... Zack Kassian is on a five-game point streak with five goals and nine assists... For the first time this season, the Spitfires did not allow a goal in the second period... The Spitfires record after 10 games is 5-4-0-1... Andrew Clouthier continues to serve his five game suspension. He’s eligible to return this Saturday (October 16) against Plymouth... Brendan McCann has been assigned to the Spitfires Junior B affiliate the LaSalle Vipers... Other Spitfire scratches included Brady Vail, Josh Malecki and Cam Fowler who is still with the Anaheim Ducks.
Attendance at tonight’s game was 5,901.
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 10 Stephen Johnston
2. WSR – 14 Tom Kuhnhackl
3. WSR – 19 Zack Kassian
UP NEXT
The Spitfires travel to Plymouth this Saturday (October 16) to face-off against the Plymouth Whalers. Game time is 7:05pm.
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Troy Passingham made 33 saves as the Windsor Spitfires edged the Erie Otters 5-3 Thursday night at the WFCU.
After an early exchange of chances, the Otters opened the scoring on their first power play of the evening. Kenny Ryan’s attempt to break up a cross-crease pass accidentally directed the puck past Passingham at 12:16 to give the Otters a 1-0 lead. The goal was credited to Derek Holden.
Just over a minute later the Otters would strike again. Matthew Paton and Jeremy Gottzman crashed the Spitfires net and Paton was able to push the puck past Passingham to give the Otters a 2-0 cushion at 13:19 of the first.
In a hole early, the Spitfires quickly struck with two goals of their own.
On a delayed penalty, Zack Kassian beat Ramis Sadikov with a quick wraparound, at 14:03, to cut into the Otters lead. And before the goal could even be announced the Spitfires jumped on the Otters again. Michael Whaley scored his first of the season on a nifty spin-o-rama beat Sadikov 22 seconds later.
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| Photo Credit: Andrew Adam |
Both teams came out swinging in the second. Quite literally.
A spirited scrap between Kyle Tarini and Mitch Gaulton started the second off with a bang. The fight seemed to spark the Spitfires, whose offensive pressure forced the Otters into a pair of penalties.
The Spits cashed in on a 5-on-3 advantage about five minutes in, when Stephen Johnston one-timed a Kassian pass home to put the Spitfires up 3-2.
The Spitfires took that lead into the third period. But the lead would be shortlived. Chris Marchese buried a rebound, at 5:04, to tie the game up once again, at 3-3.
Otters' forward Jordan Coccimiglio had a chance to pull his team ahead shorthanded, but Passingham stoned him on the breakaway. The save would prove crucial for the Spitfires, who regained the lead a minute later. Michael MacIntyre wired home his fifth of the season off a nice one-time pass from Eric Locke, at 7:59, to put the Spitfires on top 4-3.
Led by Passingham, the home side shut down the Otters for the rest of the third period., before Kassian added the insurance marker with an empty net goal in the final minute to seal the 5-3 win.
NOTES
Michael MacIntyre had the game-winning goal - his third of the year, tied for tops in the OHL ... Passingham made his second consecutive start and made 33 saves for his third win of the year...The Spitfires were 1-for-7 on the power play. Erie went 2-for-4 with the man advantage... The Spitfires dressed seven defenders with Grant Webermin jumping back in... Michael MacIntyre’s fight in the second with Matthew Paton required the Otters forward to receive some medical attention after the bout. Webermin and Chris Marchese, a couple of '94s, also fought... Craig Duninck and Brady Austin also chucked'em... Zack Kassian is on a five-game point streak with five goals and nine assists... For the first time this season, the Spitfires did not allow a goal in the second period... The Spitfires record after 10 games is 5-4-0-1... Andrew Clouthier continues to serve his five game suspension. He’s eligible to return this Saturday (October 16) against Plymouth... Brendan McCann has been assigned to the Spitfires Junior B affiliate the LaSalle Vipers... Other Spitfire scratches included Brady Vail, Josh Malecki and Cam Fowler who is still with the Anaheim Ducks.
Attendance at tonight’s game was 5,901.
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 10 Stephen Johnston
2. WSR – 14 Tom Kuhnhackl
3. WSR – 19 Zack Kassian
UP NEXT
The Spitfires travel to Plymouth this Saturday (October 16) to face-off against the Plymouth Whalers. Game time is 7:05pm.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Zack Kassian – The Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week
In Play on Facebook
(Windsor) Right-winger Zack Kassian is the Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week as selected by the Spitfires coaching staff for the week ending Monday, October 11th, 2010. In three games last week, Kassian scored two goals and registered seven points with a +2 plus-minus rating.
The two-time defending MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Champions will host the Erie Otters this Thursday (October 14th) at the WFCU Centre. Game time is set for 7:05 p.m.
2010-2011 Windsor Spitfires’ Players of the Week
Zack Kassian – Oct. 4 – Oct. 11, 2010
Kyle Tarini – Sep. 28 – Oct. 3, 2010
Alexander Khokhlachev – Sep. 21 – Sep. 27, 2010
(Windsor) Right-winger Zack Kassian is the Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week as selected by the Spitfires coaching staff for the week ending Monday, October 11th, 2010. In three games last week, Kassian scored two goals and registered seven points with a +2 plus-minus rating.
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| Zack Kassian Photo by Joe Lemire / In Play! Magazine |
On Thursday, Kassian assisted on both Spitfire goals in Windsor’s 5-2 loss to the Saginaw Spirit at the WFCU Centre. Two nights later, he helped lead the Spitfires back from an early 4-0 deficit against the London Knights, scoring the game tying goal with 1:24 left in the contest to send the game into overtime and a subsequent shootout where the Knights pulled out a narrow 5-4 victory. Kassian was named first star of the game for his efforts. He finished the week with a monster one goal and three assist performance in leading the Spitfires to a 5-3 victory over the Sarnia Sting on Monday and was selected as the game’s first star.
Kassian, a 19 year-old native of LaSalle, Ontario is in his second season with the Spitfires and was part of Windsor’s 2009-2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup championship squad. He was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres with the team’s first round selection, 13th overall at the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Kassian is currently tied for the team lead in scoring and is tied for 14th overall in the OHL’s scoring race with 11 points (3 goals and 8 assists) in just four games played.
The two-time defending MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Champions will host the Erie Otters this Thursday (October 14th) at the WFCU Centre. Game time is set for 7:05 p.m.
2010-2011 Windsor Spitfires’ Players of the Week
Zack Kassian – Oct. 4 – Oct. 11, 2010
Kyle Tarini – Sep. 28 – Oct. 3, 2010
Alexander Khokhlachev – Sep. 21 – Sep. 27, 2010
Monday, October 11, 2010
Kassian Leads Spits Past Sarnia
In Play on Facebook
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Zack Kassian had another huge game, scoring a goal and adding three assists, as the Windsor Spitfires beat the Sarnia Sting 5-3 in Thanksgiving Monday matinee.
Going with new line combinations, the Spitfires were able to jump on the Sting early in the first period with sustained pressure.
That attack was led by a line of Zack Kassian, Eric Locke and Zack MacQueen. The trio mustered the first goal of the game after Locke banked the puck in off Sting goaltender John Cullen just over three minutes in.
Late in the first, the Spitfires were able to pad their lead when a Ryan Ellis shot redirected off Sting defenceman Nathan Chiarlitti and past Cullen.
The Sting would cut the lead in half with only six seconds left in the period. Alex Galechenyuk grabbed a loose puck off a faceoff in the Windsor zone and patiently beat a sprawling Troy Passingham.
Needing a good start to the second period, the Spitfires capitalized on an early power play opportunity. Zack MacQueen corraled a rebound in front of Cullen and rifled it home at 2:13, to increase the lead 3-1.
Nick Latta later made the Spits pay for their inability to clear their zone, scoring at 15:19 of the second to pull the Sting within one.
But the Spitfires escaped the period with their 3-2 lead intact.
In a tight third period, the Sting pulled even when a Joe Rogalski shot deflected off a pair of skates and through Passingham.
But the home side quickly reclaimed the lead.
Tom Kuhnhackl restored the Spitfires lead on the very next shift, when his rocket shot from the top of the circle beat Cullen upstairs at 9:31.
Kassian added the insurance marker at 11:56 after he jumped on a Sting turnover at the blue line.
The Sting pushed hard in the last ten minutes of the game, but the Spitfires fought hard defensively, holding on for the 5-3 win.
NOTES
Troy Passingham made 30 saves. Cullen kept Sarnia in the game facing 40 shots. Zack Kassian’s four point afternoon gives him 11 points in four games. The Spitfires were 1-for-5 on the power play. Sarnia went 0-for-6 with the man advantage. It was arguably the best full-game effort the Spitfires have put forth all season. Locke’s goal was his first of the season, and first in the OHL. Andrew Clouthier continues to serve his five game suspension. He’s eligible to return on October 16th. Other Spitfire scratches include Grant Webermin, Brendan McCann, Josh Malecki and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks. Attendance at tonight’s game was 5,752.
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 19 Zack Kassian
2. SAR – 94 Alex Galchenyuk
3. WSR – 55 Eric Locke
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
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| Photo Credit: Tim Cornett |
Zack Kassian had another huge game, scoring a goal and adding three assists, as the Windsor Spitfires beat the Sarnia Sting 5-3 in Thanksgiving Monday matinee.
Going with new line combinations, the Spitfires were able to jump on the Sting early in the first period with sustained pressure.
That attack was led by a line of Zack Kassian, Eric Locke and Zack MacQueen. The trio mustered the first goal of the game after Locke banked the puck in off Sting goaltender John Cullen just over three minutes in.
Late in the first, the Spitfires were able to pad their lead when a Ryan Ellis shot redirected off Sting defenceman Nathan Chiarlitti and past Cullen.
The Sting would cut the lead in half with only six seconds left in the period. Alex Galechenyuk grabbed a loose puck off a faceoff in the Windsor zone and patiently beat a sprawling Troy Passingham.
Needing a good start to the second period, the Spitfires capitalized on an early power play opportunity. Zack MacQueen corraled a rebound in front of Cullen and rifled it home at 2:13, to increase the lead 3-1.
Nick Latta later made the Spits pay for their inability to clear their zone, scoring at 15:19 of the second to pull the Sting within one.
But the Spitfires escaped the period with their 3-2 lead intact.
In a tight third period, the Sting pulled even when a Joe Rogalski shot deflected off a pair of skates and through Passingham.
But the home side quickly reclaimed the lead.
Tom Kuhnhackl restored the Spitfires lead on the very next shift, when his rocket shot from the top of the circle beat Cullen upstairs at 9:31.
Kassian added the insurance marker at 11:56 after he jumped on a Sting turnover at the blue line.
The Sting pushed hard in the last ten minutes of the game, but the Spitfires fought hard defensively, holding on for the 5-3 win.
NOTES
Troy Passingham made 30 saves. Cullen kept Sarnia in the game facing 40 shots. Zack Kassian’s four point afternoon gives him 11 points in four games. The Spitfires were 1-for-5 on the power play. Sarnia went 0-for-6 with the man advantage. It was arguably the best full-game effort the Spitfires have put forth all season. Locke’s goal was his first of the season, and first in the OHL. Andrew Clouthier continues to serve his five game suspension. He’s eligible to return on October 16th. Other Spitfire scratches include Grant Webermin, Brendan McCann, Josh Malecki and Cam Fowler, who is still with the Anaheim Ducks. Attendance at tonight’s game was 5,752.
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 19 Zack Kassian
2. SAR – 94 Alex Galchenyuk
3. WSR – 55 Eric Locke
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Spits Rally for a Point
In Play on Facebook
An impressive rally from a 4-0 deficit wasn’t enough for the Windsor Spitfires, as they fell to the London Knights 5-4 in a shootout Saturday night.
After the Spitfires failed to bury a few quality chances on the power play, London opened the scoring late in the first period, courtesy of Vladislav Namestnikov. The first-year Russian forward was left alone at the side of the Spitfire net to bang in a Daniel Erlich pass.
The Knights took their 1-0 lead into the dressing room.
And once again, the Spits had a rough time in the second period.
Jared Knight’s great individual rush off the wing put the Knights up 2-0 at the 3:05 mark. Then, the Spits got into some penalty trouble, and paid for it.
Chris DeSousa tipped home Knight’s point shot to increase the lead to a comfortable 3-0 near the midway point. Jack Campbell’s night came to an abrupt end about three minutes later, when Michael MacDonald's floater from the top of the circle beat him glove side.
Troy Passingham came on in relief of Campbell at the 13:10 mark. And the move seemed to spark the Spitfires.
Derek Lanoue finished off a broken play that put the Spitfires on the board, at 17:23. Then rookie Tom Kuhnhackl - who had been held pointless in his first seven games - bounced one in off Houser’s foot with just 11 seconds left in the frame, to make it 4-2.
The Spitfires inched closer when Alexander Khokhlachev finished off a rebound at 11:31 of the third period.
The home side dominated the final minutes of regulation. And their persistence would pay off. With the Windsor net empty, Zack Kassian sent the crowd into a frenzy, scoring from in front of the Knights net, at the 18:36 mark, to even the game at 4-4.
The Spits had a golden chance to win the game in overtime - which they began with 1:29 of power play time. Despite hemming London in its own zone for more than three minutes, they were unable to beat Houser on any of a half dozen excellent chances.
Michael MacDonald scored the winner for London (4-2-0) in the shootout, beating Passingham on the backhand.
NOTES
Campbell made 21 saves in just over 33 minutes of work and allowed four goals. Passingham made 13 saves and didn't allow a goal in regulation. The Spitfires have allowed six second period goals in their last two games and a whopping 20 on the season. The Spitfires were 0-for-4 on the power play. London went 1-for-3 with the man advantage. The Spitfires went with seven defencemen again tonight. Derek Lanoue, Tom Kuhnhackl, and Nick Czinder recorded their first points of the season. Andrew Clouthier served the third of his five-game suspension. He’s eligible to return on October 16th. Other Spitfire scratches include Brady Vail, Brendan McCann, Josh Malecki and Cam Fowler, who made his NHL debut last night in Detroit with the Anaheim Ducks, logging more than 21 minutes of ice-time. Attendance at tonight’s game was 6,494.
SHOOTOUT RESULTS
Round 1: WSR – 6 Ryan Ellis – No Goal
Round 1: LND – 97 Jared Knight – No Goal
Round 2: WSR – 19 Zack Kassian – No Goal
Round 2: LND – 26 Colin Martin – Goal
Round 3: WSR – 89 Alexander Khokhlachev – Goal
Round 3: LND – 27 Michael MacDonald – Goal (GWG)
SHOTS ON GOAL
WINDSOR 39, LONDON 39
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 19 Zack Kassian
2. WSR – 89 Alexander Khokhlachev
3. LND – 29 Michael Houser
An impressive rally from a 4-0 deficit wasn’t enough for the Windsor Spitfires, as they fell to the London Knights 5-4 in a shootout Saturday night.
After the Spitfires failed to bury a few quality chances on the power play, London opened the scoring late in the first period, courtesy of Vladislav Namestnikov. The first-year Russian forward was left alone at the side of the Spitfire net to bang in a Daniel Erlich pass.
The Knights took their 1-0 lead into the dressing room.
And once again, the Spits had a rough time in the second period.
Jared Knight’s great individual rush off the wing put the Knights up 2-0 at the 3:05 mark. Then, the Spits got into some penalty trouble, and paid for it.
Chris DeSousa tipped home Knight’s point shot to increase the lead to a comfortable 3-0 near the midway point. Jack Campbell’s night came to an abrupt end about three minutes later, when Michael MacDonald's floater from the top of the circle beat him glove side.
Troy Passingham came on in relief of Campbell at the 13:10 mark. And the move seemed to spark the Spitfires.
Derek Lanoue finished off a broken play that put the Spitfires on the board, at 17:23. Then rookie Tom Kuhnhackl - who had been held pointless in his first seven games - bounced one in off Houser’s foot with just 11 seconds left in the frame, to make it 4-2.
The Spitfires inched closer when Alexander Khokhlachev finished off a rebound at 11:31 of the third period.
The home side dominated the final minutes of regulation. And their persistence would pay off. With the Windsor net empty, Zack Kassian sent the crowd into a frenzy, scoring from in front of the Knights net, at the 18:36 mark, to even the game at 4-4.
The Spits had a golden chance to win the game in overtime - which they began with 1:29 of power play time. Despite hemming London in its own zone for more than three minutes, they were unable to beat Houser on any of a half dozen excellent chances.
Michael MacDonald scored the winner for London (4-2-0) in the shootout, beating Passingham on the backhand.
NOTES
Campbell made 21 saves in just over 33 minutes of work and allowed four goals. Passingham made 13 saves and didn't allow a goal in regulation. The Spitfires have allowed six second period goals in their last two games and a whopping 20 on the season. The Spitfires were 0-for-4 on the power play. London went 1-for-3 with the man advantage. The Spitfires went with seven defencemen again tonight. Derek Lanoue, Tom Kuhnhackl, and Nick Czinder recorded their first points of the season. Andrew Clouthier served the third of his five-game suspension. He’s eligible to return on October 16th. Other Spitfire scratches include Brady Vail, Brendan McCann, Josh Malecki and Cam Fowler, who made his NHL debut last night in Detroit with the Anaheim Ducks, logging more than 21 minutes of ice-time. Attendance at tonight’s game was 6,494.
SHOOTOUT RESULTS
Round 1: WSR – 6 Ryan Ellis – No Goal
Round 1: LND – 97 Jared Knight – No Goal
Round 2: WSR – 19 Zack Kassian – No Goal
Round 2: LND – 26 Colin Martin – Goal
Round 3: WSR – 89 Alexander Khokhlachev – Goal
Round 3: LND – 27 Michael MacDonald – Goal (GWG)
SHOTS ON GOAL
WINDSOR 39, LONDON 39
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 19 Zack Kassian
2. WSR – 89 Alexander Khokhlachev
3. LND – 29 Michael Houser
Monday, October 4, 2010
Kyle Tarini – The Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week
In Play on Facebook
(Windsor) Overage right-winger Kyle Tarini is the Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week as selected by the Spitfires coaching staff for the week ending Sunday, October 3rd, 2010. In three games last week, the 20 year-old native of Sudbury, Ontario scored one goal and provided the Spitfires with steady two-way effort on both ends of the ice.
This past Sunday afternoon, Tarini scored the game-winning goal midway through the second period and was named the third star of Windsor’s 6-3 win over the Sudbury Wolves at the WFCU Centre. Tarini played his previous four seasons with the Wolves before being acquired by Windsor in a trade with the Wolves in September. He did not record a point in Windsor’s 5-1 losses to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds on Thursday and to the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors on Friday but “battled hard for the club in all three games” according to Spitfire Head Coach Bob Jones.
The two-time defending MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Champions will host the Saginaw Spirit this Thursday (October 7th) at the WFCU Centre. Game time is set for 7:05 p.m.
2010-2011 Windsor Spitfires’ Players of the Week
Kyle Tarini – Sep. 28 – Oct. 3, 2010
Alexander Khokhlachev – Sep. 21 – Sep. 27, 2010
(Windsor) Overage right-winger Kyle Tarini is the Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week as selected by the Spitfires coaching staff for the week ending Sunday, October 3rd, 2010. In three games last week, the 20 year-old native of Sudbury, Ontario scored one goal and provided the Spitfires with steady two-way effort on both ends of the ice.
This past Sunday afternoon, Tarini scored the game-winning goal midway through the second period and was named the third star of Windsor’s 6-3 win over the Sudbury Wolves at the WFCU Centre. Tarini played his previous four seasons with the Wolves before being acquired by Windsor in a trade with the Wolves in September. He did not record a point in Windsor’s 5-1 losses to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds on Thursday and to the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors on Friday but “battled hard for the club in all three games” according to Spitfire Head Coach Bob Jones.
The two-time defending MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Champions will host the Saginaw Spirit this Thursday (October 7th) at the WFCU Centre. Game time is set for 7:05 p.m.
2010-2011 Windsor Spitfires’ Players of the Week
Kyle Tarini – Sep. 28 – Oct. 3, 2010
Alexander Khokhlachev – Sep. 21 – Sep. 27, 2010
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Windsor Spitfires Kassian's Return Cripples Wolves
In Play on Facebook
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Zack Kassian had a goal and three assists in his first game of the season just one day after being returned to the Spitfires from the Buffalo Sabres, as the Spitfires beat the Sudbury Wolves 6-3 on Sunday afternoon.
The Spitfires carried the play from the opening draw. And it didn't take long for them to hit the score sheet.
Zack MacQueen opened the scoring at 8:39 of the first period, after Kassian found him with a tape-to-tape pass in the high slot.
With under a minute to play, Kassian snapped a low wrist shot past Wolves goaltender Alain Valiquette on the power play, giving the Spits a 2-0 lead after 20 minutes.
Windsor out-shot Sudbury by a commanding 21-4 margin in the first.
The visitors looked like they might get back in the game, just past the midway point of the second period. A Michael MacIntyre turnover allowed John McFarland to get the Wolves on the board, cutting the Spitfires lead to 2-1 at the 11:37 mark.
But a series of penalties quickly doused Sudbury's chances.
The Spitfires scored four goals in under five minutes - including goals on the man advantage from Kenny Ryan, Ryan Ellis and Michael MacIntyre - to blow the game wide open. Former Wolves forward Kyle Tarini also scored - his first of the year - to give the Spitfires a 6-1 lead heading into the third period.
The third was uneventful, until the Wolves got goals from Jake Cardwell and Marcus Foligno in a twenty-second span late in the period. But it was too little, too late, as the Spitfires had what they needed, for the 6-3 win.
NOTES
Troy Passingham made 24 saves in his first start of the season, while Valiquette turned aside 37 shots for the Wolves. The Wolves were coming off a big 8-4 win over the Plymouth Whalers on Saturday. The Spitfires went 4-for-7 on the power play. Sudbury was 2-for-6. Alexander Khokhlachev and Stephen Johnston each recorded two assists in the game. Grant Webermin recorded his first OHL assist on Tarini’s goal. Nick Ebert is sidelined with an upper-body injury, his status is day-to-day. Craig Duininck will return to the line-up Thursday after serving a two-game suspension for his fight with Darren Archibald (SSM) on September 30th. Other Spitfire scratches include Andrew Clouthier, Josh Malecki and Cam Fowler, who remains with the Anaheim Ducks. Attendance at today’s game was 5,881.
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 19 Zack Kassian
2. WSR – 6 Ryan Ellis
3. WSR – 13 Kyle Tarini
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Zack Kassian had a goal and three assists in his first game of the season just one day after being returned to the Spitfires from the Buffalo Sabres, as the Spitfires beat the Sudbury Wolves 6-3 on Sunday afternoon.
The Spitfires carried the play from the opening draw. And it didn't take long for them to hit the score sheet.
Zack MacQueen opened the scoring at 8:39 of the first period, after Kassian found him with a tape-to-tape pass in the high slot.
With under a minute to play, Kassian snapped a low wrist shot past Wolves goaltender Alain Valiquette on the power play, giving the Spits a 2-0 lead after 20 minutes.
Windsor out-shot Sudbury by a commanding 21-4 margin in the first.
The visitors looked like they might get back in the game, just past the midway point of the second period. A Michael MacIntyre turnover allowed John McFarland to get the Wolves on the board, cutting the Spitfires lead to 2-1 at the 11:37 mark.
But a series of penalties quickly doused Sudbury's chances.
The Spitfires scored four goals in under five minutes - including goals on the man advantage from Kenny Ryan, Ryan Ellis and Michael MacIntyre - to blow the game wide open. Former Wolves forward Kyle Tarini also scored - his first of the year - to give the Spitfires a 6-1 lead heading into the third period.
The third was uneventful, until the Wolves got goals from Jake Cardwell and Marcus Foligno in a twenty-second span late in the period. But it was too little, too late, as the Spitfires had what they needed, for the 6-3 win.
NOTES
Troy Passingham made 24 saves in his first start of the season, while Valiquette turned aside 37 shots for the Wolves. The Wolves were coming off a big 8-4 win over the Plymouth Whalers on Saturday. The Spitfires went 4-for-7 on the power play. Sudbury was 2-for-6. Alexander Khokhlachev and Stephen Johnston each recorded two assists in the game. Grant Webermin recorded his first OHL assist on Tarini’s goal. Nick Ebert is sidelined with an upper-body injury, his status is day-to-day. Craig Duininck will return to the line-up Thursday after serving a two-game suspension for his fight with Darren Archibald (SSM) on September 30th. Other Spitfire scratches include Andrew Clouthier, Josh Malecki and Cam Fowler, who remains with the Anaheim Ducks. Attendance at today’s game was 5,881.
THREE STARS
1. WSR – 19 Zack Kassian
2. WSR – 6 Ryan Ellis
3. WSR – 13 Kyle Tarini
Friday, October 1, 2010
Spits Unable to Tame Hounds, Sault Ste. Marie Defeats Windsor 5-1 at the WFCU Centre
In Play on Facebook
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Bryce O’Hagan turned aside 32 shots as the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds hammered the Windsor Spitfires 5-1 on Thursday night at the WFCU Centre.
Justin Thomas scored twice and added an assist for the Greyhounds, while Kenny Ryan scored the lone goal for the Spitfires.
Ryan opened the scoring at 15:21 as he whacked away at a loose puck that squeaked through O’Hagan. The Spitfires took that lead to the first intermission, with the shots heavily in their favour 15-9.
The second period brought new life out the Greyhounds. The visitors took total control of the game, scoring three unanswered goals and outshooting the Spitfires 17-9.
Nick Cousins was credited with the tying goal after a shot from Egor Omelyaneko deflected off his leg and past goaltender Jack Campbell. Shortly after, the Greyhounds would take a 2-1 lead when a weird bounce off the end boards was batted into the net by winger Justin Thomas.
Campbell would keep the Spitfires in the game, making several big saves, including a 2-on-0 breakaway. But it wouldn’t be enough.
Ryan Ellis turned the puck over on a shorthanded rush with Kyle Tarini at the Greyhounds blue line. That allowed Vern Cooper to spring forward Brett Thompson on a partial short-handed breakaway. Thompson’s quick deke beat Campbell and gave the Greyhounds breathing room with a 3-1 lead heading into the third period.
The Greyhounds kept didn't let up in the third, peppering the Spitfires, who began to slowly collapse defensively.
Carson Dubchak finished off a nice 2-on-1 pass courtesy of Daniel Catenacci to give the Greyhounds a comfortable three-goal lead. Justin Thomas rounded out the scoring, tapping home his second of the night into an empty net at 17:52 of the third period.
NOTES
Jack Campbell was busy in the final two periods, facing 29 shots. The Spits went 0-for-5 on the man advantage, including a 5-on-3 opportunity in the third period ... the Soo went 1-for-2. Stephen Johnston was given an instigator penalty after rushing and fighting Myles McCauley late in the third. Both Zack Kassian (Buffalo Sabres) and Cam Fowler (Anaheim Ducks) remain at their respective NHL camps.
Three Stars:
1. SSM - 33 Bryce O'Hagan
2. WSR - 26 Kenny Ryan
3. SSM - 28 Justin Thomas
by John-Eric Iannicello
windsorspitfires.com
Bryce O’Hagan turned aside 32 shots as the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds hammered the Windsor Spitfires 5-1 on Thursday night at the WFCU Centre.
Justin Thomas scored twice and added an assist for the Greyhounds, while Kenny Ryan scored the lone goal for the Spitfires.
Ryan opened the scoring at 15:21 as he whacked away at a loose puck that squeaked through O’Hagan. The Spitfires took that lead to the first intermission, with the shots heavily in their favour 15-9.
The second period brought new life out the Greyhounds. The visitors took total control of the game, scoring three unanswered goals and outshooting the Spitfires 17-9.
Nick Cousins was credited with the tying goal after a shot from Egor Omelyaneko deflected off his leg and past goaltender Jack Campbell. Shortly after, the Greyhounds would take a 2-1 lead when a weird bounce off the end boards was batted into the net by winger Justin Thomas.
Campbell would keep the Spitfires in the game, making several big saves, including a 2-on-0 breakaway. But it wouldn’t be enough.
Ryan Ellis turned the puck over on a shorthanded rush with Kyle Tarini at the Greyhounds blue line. That allowed Vern Cooper to spring forward Brett Thompson on a partial short-handed breakaway. Thompson’s quick deke beat Campbell and gave the Greyhounds breathing room with a 3-1 lead heading into the third period.
The Greyhounds kept didn't let up in the third, peppering the Spitfires, who began to slowly collapse defensively.
Carson Dubchak finished off a nice 2-on-1 pass courtesy of Daniel Catenacci to give the Greyhounds a comfortable three-goal lead. Justin Thomas rounded out the scoring, tapping home his second of the night into an empty net at 17:52 of the third period.
NOTES
Jack Campbell was busy in the final two periods, facing 29 shots. The Spits went 0-for-5 on the man advantage, including a 5-on-3 opportunity in the third period ... the Soo went 1-for-2. Stephen Johnston was given an instigator penalty after rushing and fighting Myles McCauley late in the third. Both Zack Kassian (Buffalo Sabres) and Cam Fowler (Anaheim Ducks) remain at their respective NHL camps.
Three Stars:
1. SSM - 33 Bryce O'Hagan
2. WSR - 26 Kenny Ryan
3. SSM - 28 Justin Thomas
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