In Play on Facebook
The Ducks have signed defenseman Cam Fowler to a three-year entry-level contract. Per club policy, no terms of the deal were disclosed.
Fowler was selected by the Ducks in the first round (12th overall) of this year's NHL Entry Draft.
Fowler, 18 (12/6/91), collected 8-47=55 points with a +38 rating and 14 penalty minutes (PIM) in 55 games with the Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) in 2009-10. Fowler ranked seventh among OHL defensemen in scoring to help Windsor finish first in its conference during the regular season. The 6-1, 190-pound blueliner also added 3-11=14 points with 10 PIM in 19 OHL Playoff games, helping the Spitfires to their second consecutive OHL championship and second straight Memorial Cup as junior hockey champions.
As a member of Team USA, Fowler won a gold medal at both the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship and 2009 IIHF U-18 World Championship, where he was named the tournament’s top defenseman. Fowler also played two seasons in Ann Arbor, Michigan with the U.S. National Training Development Program. In 2008-09, he was a member of the Under-18 team recording 8-32=40 points with 44 PIM in 55 games
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Spits Sign Campbell, Unveil new Third Jersey
In Play on Facebook
Spitfires Officially Sign and Welcome Jack Campbell to Windsor, Unveil New Third Jerseys for 2010-2011 Season
(Windsor) Earlier today, at a press conference conducted within the WFCU Centre, the Windsor Spitfires officially signed and welcomed goaltender Jack Campbell to Windsor while unveiling their new look, vintage Reebok EDGE third jersey to be worn by the team for the upcoming 2010-2011 season.
Campbell, an 18 year-old native of Port Huron, Michigan, committed to the Windsor Spitfires on Tuesday, November 24, 2009 and was instrumental in leading Team USA to a gold medal performance at the 2010 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships. He is also one of the most decorated players in his career with the United States Development Program (USDP), becoming the first American along with teammate Jason Zucker to have earned three gold medals at IIHF events. This past summer, he was selected in the first round, (11th overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft by the Dallas Stars. A complete bio on Campbell is available below, with the information provided courtesy of USA Hockey.
At today’s conference, Campbell also modeled the Spitfires’ new look, lightweight, vintage Reebok EDGE third jersey. The third jersey design is similar to the model worn by the team from 2007-2009 and features a large navy blue coloured “W” with cream and red colours outlining the letter with the Spitfires name in a navy blue and cream namebar running through the centre of the “W”. The jersey itself is of a cream colour, with a navy blue collar and two navy blue stripes placed along each of the sleeves and the waist of the jersey. The new vintage Reebok EDGE jersey will also feature an OHL and Reebok patch on the front of the jersey along with a CHL patch located on the centre back hem. A newly created “WS” Windsor Spitfire team initial patch has been included on the jersey and is located on the left and right shoulders.
The current design of the “W” styled jersey was created by the Spitfires to honour the Windsor Spitfire teams who wore similar jerseys for three seasons, from 1944 to 1947 and will be worn by the 2010-2011 at most non-Thursday Spitfire home games.
“We are excited to welcome Jack to Windsor for the 2010-2011 season and to bringing back our vintage jerseys. Jack is a big part of our future and a world-class goaltender who has won at every level in junior international hockey with USA Hockey. The team prides itself in celebrating its storied past and, looking toward the future, we felt it was appropriate and necessary to have Jack model our vintage jersey. Today’s event was a great way to bring the team’s history as well as its future together and we can’t wait to get started in September,” said Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel.
Jack Campbell – Biographical Information Provided Courtesy of USA Hockey (www.usahockey.com)
Position: Goaltender Date of Birth: 1/9/92
Height: 6-2 (188) Hometown: Port Huron, Mich.
Weight: 185 (84) 2009-10 Team: U.S. National Under-18 Team (USHL)
Catches: Left
Spitfires Officially Sign and Welcome Jack Campbell to Windsor, Unveil New Third Jerseys for 2010-2011 Season
(Windsor) Earlier today, at a press conference conducted within the WFCU Centre, the Windsor Spitfires officially signed and welcomed goaltender Jack Campbell to Windsor while unveiling their new look, vintage Reebok EDGE third jersey to be worn by the team for the upcoming 2010-2011 season.
Campbell, an 18 year-old native of Port Huron, Michigan, committed to the Windsor Spitfires on Tuesday, November 24, 2009 and was instrumental in leading Team USA to a gold medal performance at the 2010 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships. He is also one of the most decorated players in his career with the United States Development Program (USDP), becoming the first American along with teammate Jason Zucker to have earned three gold medals at IIHF events. This past summer, he was selected in the first round, (11th overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft by the Dallas Stars. A complete bio on Campbell is available below, with the information provided courtesy of USA Hockey.
At today’s conference, Campbell also modeled the Spitfires’ new look, lightweight, vintage Reebok EDGE third jersey. The third jersey design is similar to the model worn by the team from 2007-2009 and features a large navy blue coloured “W” with cream and red colours outlining the letter with the Spitfires name in a navy blue and cream namebar running through the centre of the “W”. The jersey itself is of a cream colour, with a navy blue collar and two navy blue stripes placed along each of the sleeves and the waist of the jersey. The new vintage Reebok EDGE jersey will also feature an OHL and Reebok patch on the front of the jersey along with a CHL patch located on the centre back hem. A newly created “WS” Windsor Spitfire team initial patch has been included on the jersey and is located on the left and right shoulders.
The current design of the “W” styled jersey was created by the Spitfires to honour the Windsor Spitfire teams who wore similar jerseys for three seasons, from 1944 to 1947 and will be worn by the 2010-2011 at most non-Thursday Spitfire home games.
“We are excited to welcome Jack to Windsor for the 2010-2011 season and to bringing back our vintage jerseys. Jack is a big part of our future and a world-class goaltender who has won at every level in junior international hockey with USA Hockey. The team prides itself in celebrating its storied past and, looking toward the future, we felt it was appropriate and necessary to have Jack model our vintage jersey. Today’s event was a great way to bring the team’s history as well as its future together and we can’t wait to get started in September,” said Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel.
Jack Campbell – Biographical Information Provided Courtesy of USA Hockey (www.usahockey.com)
Position: Goaltender Date of Birth: 1/9/92
Height: 6-2 (188) Hometown: Port Huron, Mich.
Weight: 185 (84) 2009-10 Team: U.S. National Under-18 Team (USHL)
Catches: Left
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Spitfires Hire Assistant Coach David Matsos
In Play on Facebook
(Windsor) Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel is proud to announce that David Matsos will join the Spitfires as the team’s new Assistant Coach. Matsos, a native of Burlington, ON, has signed a two-year deal with the Spitfires and previously worked as Head Coach of the Sheffield Steelers Hockey Club in the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) for four seasons from 2006-2010 and led the team to back to back league playoff championships in the 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 seasons as well as the EIHL’s regular season title in 2008-2009. He earned the EIHL’s Coach of the Year award in the 2008-2009 season. Additionally, Matsos served as the Senior Assistant Coach of Great Britain’s National Team from 2008-2010 and was part of the team’s bronze medal performance in Pool B of the 2009 World Hockey Championships.
“With the changes that our coaching staff has undergone in the past few weeks, this created the opportunity for David to join us as the new Assistant Coach of the Windsor Spitfires. The search to fill this position was a long process as many people applied for the job, but David’s name rose to the top, as he served as Head Coach with Sheffield of the EIHL and was also part of the coaching staff on the British National Team. We look forward to having him join our staff and believe his skills will complement those of Bob Jones and D.J. Smith,” said Warren Rychel.
David offered the following on joining the Spitfires, “I’m walking into a great situation as the new Assistant Coach of the two-time defending MasterCard Memorial Cup champion Windsor Spitfires organization. I’ve known Bob Boughner, Warren Rychel, Peter Dobrich, Bob Jones and D.J. Smith for many years and greatly respect all of their accomplishments. It’s great to be part of a team which has so many great hockey minds and I share their passion for hockey. Throughout my coaching and playing career, I’ve always been motivated to the best I could be on the ice and behind the bench. It is truly an honour to be part of the Windsor Spitfires coaching staff and I thank Bob, Warren and Peter for the offering me with the opportunity to work in Windsor.”
Prior to his coaching career, Matsos played left-wing as a member of the OHL’s Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds from 1990-1993 and played alongside Spitfires President Bob Boughner from 1989-1991 and also with Spitfires Head Coach Bob Jones in the 1989-1990 season. In the 1990-1991 campaign, Matsos and Boughner won an OHL Championship with the Greyhounds, the first of three consecutive OHL titles that Matsos earned while in Sault Ste. Marie. He was also part of the Greyhounds 1991-1992 and 1992-1993 OHL championship squads and participated in the Memorial Cup tournament with Sault Ste. Marie in 1991 and 1992 before achieving the pinnacle of Canadian junior hockey success as a member of Greyhound’s 1993 Memorial Cup championship team. In his four seasons with the Greyhounds, Matsos scored 66 goals and registered 137 points in 229 games.
Following his junior hockey days, Matsos played one season with the University of Western Ontario and won a Queen’s Cup championship in the 1994-1995 season as well as one full season in 1995-1996 with the Canadian National Team. He won a silver medal as part of Team Canada at the 1996 World Hockey Championships, a season during which he scored 18 goals and 33 points in 43 games. He also played three seasons in the American Hockey League (AHL), two with the Adirondack Red Wings from 1996-1998 and his final AHL campaign with the Hamilton Bulldogs in 1999, scoring 44 goals and 78 points in 174 games during his AHL career.
Matsos moved on to play two seasons (1999-2001) with Bad Nauheim EC of the German Premier League, scoring 39 goals and 94 points before joining the Belfast Giants of the British Ice Hockey Superleague (BISL) for two seasons (2001-2003) and was a member of the Giants BISL regular season championship team in 2001-2002 and the team’s playoff championship squad in 2002-2003. He concluded his playing career, as he joined the Bracknell Bees of the British National League (BNL) in 2003-2004, scoring 11 goals and 27 points in 28 games before participating in his final two seasons of professional hockey with the Cardiff Devils of the EIHL, registering 22 goals and 61 points in 71 games.
(Windsor) Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel is proud to announce that David Matsos will join the Spitfires as the team’s new Assistant Coach. Matsos, a native of Burlington, ON, has signed a two-year deal with the Spitfires and previously worked as Head Coach of the Sheffield Steelers Hockey Club in the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) for four seasons from 2006-2010 and led the team to back to back league playoff championships in the 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 seasons as well as the EIHL’s regular season title in 2008-2009. He earned the EIHL’s Coach of the Year award in the 2008-2009 season. Additionally, Matsos served as the Senior Assistant Coach of Great Britain’s National Team from 2008-2010 and was part of the team’s bronze medal performance in Pool B of the 2009 World Hockey Championships.
“With the changes that our coaching staff has undergone in the past few weeks, this created the opportunity for David to join us as the new Assistant Coach of the Windsor Spitfires. The search to fill this position was a long process as many people applied for the job, but David’s name rose to the top, as he served as Head Coach with Sheffield of the EIHL and was also part of the coaching staff on the British National Team. We look forward to having him join our staff and believe his skills will complement those of Bob Jones and D.J. Smith,” said Warren Rychel.
David offered the following on joining the Spitfires, “I’m walking into a great situation as the new Assistant Coach of the two-time defending MasterCard Memorial Cup champion Windsor Spitfires organization. I’ve known Bob Boughner, Warren Rychel, Peter Dobrich, Bob Jones and D.J. Smith for many years and greatly respect all of their accomplishments. It’s great to be part of a team which has so many great hockey minds and I share their passion for hockey. Throughout my coaching and playing career, I’ve always been motivated to the best I could be on the ice and behind the bench. It is truly an honour to be part of the Windsor Spitfires coaching staff and I thank Bob, Warren and Peter for the offering me with the opportunity to work in Windsor.”
Prior to his coaching career, Matsos played left-wing as a member of the OHL’s Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds from 1990-1993 and played alongside Spitfires President Bob Boughner from 1989-1991 and also with Spitfires Head Coach Bob Jones in the 1989-1990 season. In the 1990-1991 campaign, Matsos and Boughner won an OHL Championship with the Greyhounds, the first of three consecutive OHL titles that Matsos earned while in Sault Ste. Marie. He was also part of the Greyhounds 1991-1992 and 1992-1993 OHL championship squads and participated in the Memorial Cup tournament with Sault Ste. Marie in 1991 and 1992 before achieving the pinnacle of Canadian junior hockey success as a member of Greyhound’s 1993 Memorial Cup championship team. In his four seasons with the Greyhounds, Matsos scored 66 goals and registered 137 points in 229 games.
Following his junior hockey days, Matsos played one season with the University of Western Ontario and won a Queen’s Cup championship in the 1994-1995 season as well as one full season in 1995-1996 with the Canadian National Team. He won a silver medal as part of Team Canada at the 1996 World Hockey Championships, a season during which he scored 18 goals and 33 points in 43 games. He also played three seasons in the American Hockey League (AHL), two with the Adirondack Red Wings from 1996-1998 and his final AHL campaign with the Hamilton Bulldogs in 1999, scoring 44 goals and 78 points in 174 games during his AHL career.
Matsos moved on to play two seasons (1999-2001) with Bad Nauheim EC of the German Premier League, scoring 39 goals and 94 points before joining the Belfast Giants of the British Ice Hockey Superleague (BISL) for two seasons (2001-2003) and was a member of the Giants BISL regular season championship team in 2001-2002 and the team’s playoff championship squad in 2002-2003. He concluded his playing career, as he joined the Bracknell Bees of the British National League (BNL) in 2003-2004, scoring 11 goals and 27 points in 28 games before participating in his final two seasons of professional hockey with the Cardiff Devils of the EIHL, registering 22 goals and 61 points in 71 games.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Windsor Spitfires Goaltending Coach Paul Billing Signs Two Year Contract Extension
In Play on Facebook
(Windsor) The Windsor Spitfires today announced that the team has signed Goaltending Coach Paul Billing to a two-year contract extension for the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 seasons. In first season with the Spitfires for the 2009-2010 campaign, Billing’s work with goaltenders Philipp Grubauer and Troy Passingham were key ingredients to the Spitfires success as the team captured its second straight MasterCard Memorial Cup championship.
“Paul did an outstanding job with both of our goalies this season. Philipp Grubauer won his last 12 playoff games in leading us to the MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL titles, and Troy Passingham posted an impressive 35-10-3 record in net for us during the regular season. We’re glad to have Paul with us for two more seasons and our goalies will be fortunate to work with him,” said Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel.
(Windsor) The Windsor Spitfires today announced that the team has signed Goaltending Coach Paul Billing to a two-year contract extension for the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 seasons. In first season with the Spitfires for the 2009-2010 campaign, Billing’s work with goaltenders Philipp Grubauer and Troy Passingham were key ingredients to the Spitfires success as the team captured its second straight MasterCard Memorial Cup championship.
“Paul did an outstanding job with both of our goalies this season. Philipp Grubauer won his last 12 playoff games in leading us to the MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL titles, and Troy Passingham posted an impressive 35-10-3 record in net for us during the regular season. We’re glad to have Paul with us for two more seasons and our goalies will be fortunate to work with him,” said Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel.
Windsor Spitfires Sadly Announce the Passing of Spitfire Great Blair Barnes
In Play on Facebook
(Windsor) It is with great sadness that the Windsor Spitfires Hockey Club announces the passing of Spitfire great Blair Barnes. Barnes died from a heart attack in his Chicago apartment on June 29. The funeral services for Barnes, who passed away at 49 years of age will be held Thursday in Mississauga. Donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Barnes, a right-winger who played three seasons with the Spitfires, scored 127 goals and registered 169 assists for 296 points in 198 games. His 296 points are ranked as the second highest total posted in team history, with his 127 goals also ranking him third all-time in Spitfire history. Barnes scored 63 goals during the 1978-1979 season, which currently ranks as the second most goals scored by a Spitfire in a single season. This stood as the franchise record for most goals in a season until Ernie Godden scored an OHL record 87 goals in the 1980-1981 campaign.
He was selected by the Edmonton Oilers in the sixth round of the 1979 NHL Entry Draft and then played two seasons (1980-1982) with the Wichita Wind of the Central Hockey League before being traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 1982. Barnes played one season with the Kings AHL affiliate team, the New Haven Nighthawks and he scored 29 goals while recording 34 assists for 63 points in 72 games during the 1982-1983 season before being called up by the Kings, where he played his only NHL game.
He finished his hockey career with the AHL’s Nova Scotia Voyageurs, scoring 31 goals and adding 32 assists for 63 points in 80 games played.
“The Windsor Spitfire offer their condolences and best wishes to Blair’s family in this most difficult time. He was a Spitfire fan favourite and will sorely be missed by our organization,” said Windsor Spitfires President Bob Boughner.
(Windsor) It is with great sadness that the Windsor Spitfires Hockey Club announces the passing of Spitfire great Blair Barnes. Barnes died from a heart attack in his Chicago apartment on June 29. The funeral services for Barnes, who passed away at 49 years of age will be held Thursday in Mississauga. Donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Barnes, a right-winger who played three seasons with the Spitfires, scored 127 goals and registered 169 assists for 296 points in 198 games. His 296 points are ranked as the second highest total posted in team history, with his 127 goals also ranking him third all-time in Spitfire history. Barnes scored 63 goals during the 1978-1979 season, which currently ranks as the second most goals scored by a Spitfire in a single season. This stood as the franchise record for most goals in a season until Ernie Godden scored an OHL record 87 goals in the 1980-1981 campaign.
He was selected by the Edmonton Oilers in the sixth round of the 1979 NHL Entry Draft and then played two seasons (1980-1982) with the Wichita Wind of the Central Hockey League before being traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 1982. Barnes played one season with the Kings AHL affiliate team, the New Haven Nighthawks and he scored 29 goals while recording 34 assists for 63 points in 72 games during the 1982-1983 season before being called up by the Kings, where he played his only NHL game.
He finished his hockey career with the AHL’s Nova Scotia Voyageurs, scoring 31 goals and adding 32 assists for 63 points in 80 games played.
“The Windsor Spitfire offer their condolences and best wishes to Blair’s family in this most difficult time. He was a Spitfire fan favourite and will sorely be missed by our organization,” said Windsor Spitfires President Bob Boughner.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Spitfires' Sign 2010 Fourth Round Pick Brady Vail to an OHL Contract
In Play on Facebook
Spitfires’ Sign 2010 Fourth Round Pick Brady Vail to an OHL Contract
(Windsor) Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel today announced the signing of U.S forward Brady Vail, Windsor’s fourth round pick, 67th overall in the 2010 OHL Priority Selection to an OHL contract and education package.
Vail, listed at 6’1 and 190 pounds, played 48 games for the Waterloo Black Hawks of the United States Hockey League (USHL), and at 15 years of age was one of the youngest players to ever suit up for Black Hawks. He also played on the 2008-2009 Detroit Compuware Minor Midget team with current Spitfire defenceman Craig Duininck and helped lead the team to the U.S. Under-16 Title, as he scored 11 goals and registered 22 points in 31 games.
“We expect big things from Brady this season. He has the potential to be a premier power forward and a force within the OHL. I’m excited to add a player of his caliber to our lineup and Brady will be a big part of our hockey club in the upcoming seasons. He will be attending our prospects development camp on July 16 and 17,” said Warren Rychel.
Vail will continue his studies at St. Anne’s High School in Lakeshore, ON next season.
Spitfires’ Sign 2010 Fourth Round Pick Brady Vail to an OHL Contract
(Windsor) Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel today announced the signing of U.S forward Brady Vail, Windsor’s fourth round pick, 67th overall in the 2010 OHL Priority Selection to an OHL contract and education package.
Vail, listed at 6’1 and 190 pounds, played 48 games for the Waterloo Black Hawks of the United States Hockey League (USHL), and at 15 years of age was one of the youngest players to ever suit up for Black Hawks. He also played on the 2008-2009 Detroit Compuware Minor Midget team with current Spitfire defenceman Craig Duininck and helped lead the team to the U.S. Under-16 Title, as he scored 11 goals and registered 22 points in 31 games.
“We expect big things from Brady this season. He has the potential to be a premier power forward and a force within the OHL. I’m excited to add a player of his caliber to our lineup and Brady will be a big part of our hockey club in the upcoming seasons. He will be attending our prospects development camp on July 16 and 17,” said Warren Rychel.
Vail will continue his studies at St. Anne’s High School in Lakeshore, ON next season.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Oilers sign Hall to entry level contract
In Play on Facebook
By Edmonton Oilers Press Release
General Manager Steve Tambellini announced today the Edmonton Oilers have agreed to terms with left-winger Taylor Hall on a three-year NHL entry level contract.
Hall, who was drafted by the Oilers 1st overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, completed his third season in the Ontario Hockey League, helping the Spitfires capture the Memorial Cup for the second year in a row. He finished tied for first in the OHL with 106 points (40G, 66A) in just 57 games, sharing the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy with Plymouth Whaler’s forward Tyler Seguin. The 18-year-old was also tied for second in points in the Canadian Hockey League with Seguin and fellow Oilers prospect Jordan Eberle of the Western Hockey League’s Regina Pats.
The 6’1”, 190lbs forward was dominant in the Spitfire’s Memorial Cup win, capturing the Stafford Smythe Memorial Trophy as the tournament’s most valuable player, the first player in its history to win it two years in a row. He also won the Ed Chynoweth Trophy as the leading scorer at the Memorial Cup (5-4-9) and was named to the tournament All-Star Team.
Hall made his OHL debut in 2007–08, scoring a team-high 45 goals and adding 39 assists for 84 points, which was third in team scoring. With his efforts, he was named OHL and CHL Rookie of the Year.
The Calgary, Alberta native continued his success in the 2008–09 OHL season. Hall was selected to represent the OHL in the ADT Canada-Russia Challenge. He scored 38 goals and added 52 assists to finish with 90 points. Windsor had a successful season on the ice, capturing the OHL Championship as well as the Memorial Cup. During the OHL playoffs, Hall scored 16 goals and added 20 assists while being awarded the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as Playoff MVP.
Hall was part of the silver medal-winning Team Canada at the 2010 World Junior Hockey Championship in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. He was the lone draft-eligible player selected to the roster and finished the tournament third in scoring with 12 points (6G, 6A) in six games, including a hat trick against Slovakia.
By Edmonton Oilers Press Release
General Manager Steve Tambellini announced today the Edmonton Oilers have agreed to terms with left-winger Taylor Hall on a three-year NHL entry level contract.
Hall, who was drafted by the Oilers 1st overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, completed his third season in the Ontario Hockey League, helping the Spitfires capture the Memorial Cup for the second year in a row. He finished tied for first in the OHL with 106 points (40G, 66A) in just 57 games, sharing the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy with Plymouth Whaler’s forward Tyler Seguin. The 18-year-old was also tied for second in points in the Canadian Hockey League with Seguin and fellow Oilers prospect Jordan Eberle of the Western Hockey League’s Regina Pats.
The 6’1”, 190lbs forward was dominant in the Spitfire’s Memorial Cup win, capturing the Stafford Smythe Memorial Trophy as the tournament’s most valuable player, the first player in its history to win it two years in a row. He also won the Ed Chynoweth Trophy as the leading scorer at the Memorial Cup (5-4-9) and was named to the tournament All-Star Team.
Hall made his OHL debut in 2007–08, scoring a team-high 45 goals and adding 39 assists for 84 points, which was third in team scoring. With his efforts, he was named OHL and CHL Rookie of the Year.
The Calgary, Alberta native continued his success in the 2008–09 OHL season. Hall was selected to represent the OHL in the ADT Canada-Russia Challenge. He scored 38 goals and added 52 assists to finish with 90 points. Windsor had a successful season on the ice, capturing the OHL Championship as well as the Memorial Cup. During the OHL playoffs, Hall scored 16 goals and added 20 assists while being awarded the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as Playoff MVP.
Hall was part of the silver medal-winning Team Canada at the 2010 World Junior Hockey Championship in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. He was the lone draft-eligible player selected to the roster and finished the tournament third in scoring with 12 points (6G, 6A) in six games, including a hat trick against Slovakia.
Bob Boughner Accepts Assistant Coaching Position with the Columbus Blue Jackets
In Play on Facebook
Bob Jones Appointed as Spitfires’ Head Coach and D.J. Smith Promoted to Spitfires’ Associate Coach
(Windsor) Earlier today, at a press conference conducted at the WFCU Centre, Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel announced that current Windsor Spitfires President and Head Coach Bob Boughner will be relinquishing his Spitfire head coaching and Team Canada World Junior Under-20 assistant coaching duties to serve as an Assistant Coach with the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets. Rychel also announced that the Windsor Spitfires have appointed Bob Jones, Associate Coach of the Windsor Spitfires for the past three seasons, as the team’s new Head Coach and that D.J. Smith will be promoted to the position of Associate Coach. Smith has served as an Assistant Coach with the Spitfires for the past six seasons.
“On behalf of the entire Windsor Spitfires organization and on a personal level, I wish Bob Boughner the very best as he moves on to work with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Four years ago, when Bob, Peter Dobrich and I purchased the team, our goal was to rebuild the Windsor Spitfires Hockey Club into a perennial contender and championship team. Bob’s hard work, vision and desire helped us achieve our goals, and he has been successful in helping us secure two MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Championships. Bob is very deserving of his new position with the Blue Jackets and has achieved the pinnacle of success in every way imaginable at the junior hockey level. Through today’s announcement, we also have a stable, proven and experienced staff to lead us in the future with Bob Jones being promoted to our head coaching position and with D.J. Smith moving up to fill Associate Coach role. I have confidence and faith in the abilities of Bob Jones and D.J Smith and will look for both to continue to lead the team as Bob Boughner had done in his four years of service to the Windsor Spitfires organization,” said Warren Rychel.
During his four seasons as Head Coach of the Windsor Spitfires, Boughner led the team to successes unparalleled in Spitfire history, culminating in consecutive MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Championships achieved during the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 seasons. During Boughner’s tenure as Head Coach, the Spitfires also posted an impressive 166-80-26 regular season record along with the team’s two best regular season finishes in team history, a 57 win and 115 point season in 2008-2009 as well as a 50 win and 106 point performance in 2009-2010. This was the first time in team history that the Spitfires have posted consecutive 50 win and 100+ point seasons. Furthermore, the 2008-2009 Spitfire squad also won the Hamilton Spectator trophy, as they secured an OHL regular season championship for the second time in Spitfire history.
Boughner also earned two consecutive CHL and OHL Coach of the Year awards in the 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 campaigns. With these honours, Boughner became the first Head Coach in CHL history to have won two CHL Coach of the Year and MasterCard Memorial Cup championships. He also served as the Head Coach of Team Canada’s Under-18 National squad and led them to a perfect 4-0 record and the gold medal at the 2009 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka Tournament in the Czech Republic. Boughner was also behind the bench as the Head Coach of the Western Conference All-Star team at the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic hosted by the Spitfires and as an Assistant Coach with Team Orr in the 2010 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game which was also conducted in Windsor.
Bob Boughner offered the following on today’s announcement, “it’s a bittersweet day for me, both professionally and personally. I am excited to join the Columbus Blue Jackets as an Assistant Coach with their organization but I have also been blessed and honoured to have helped lead the Windsor Spitfires in achieving the goals that Warren, Peter and I set out four years ago when we purchased the team. My experience and successes earned as Head Coach of the Windsor Spitfires have provided me with the opportunity to join Columbus. I am grateful for everything that I have learned and the knowledge that I have acquired from being behind the bench in Windsor. I would also like to thank the Windsor Spitfires fans, the best fans in the CHL for their support. It has truly been a privilege to coach the Windsor Spitfires in such a great hockey town.”
Bob Jones will be in his fourth season behind the bench with the Spitfires and his first as the team’s Head Coach. Jones’ hockey expertise was instrumental in Windsor’s successes enjoyed during the past three seasons. Prior to joining the Spitfires, he served as an Assistant Coach with the Sudbury Wolves from 2004-2007 and helped guide the Wolves to the OHL Eastern Conference Championship and a berth in the OHL Championship series in 2007.
Jones has a wealth of coaching experience in the OHL ranks, as he also served as an Associate Coach and Assistant Director of Hockey Operations with the Toronto St. Michael’s Majors from 2000-2004, as an Assistant Coach with the Brampton Battalion for the 1999-2000 campaign and started his coaching career as an Assistant Coach with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds from 1995-1998. On the international stage, Jones led Team Ontario’s Under-17 team to a gold medal performance at the 2004 World Junior Hockey Championships.
“I would like to thank the Windsor Spitfires and more specifically Bob Boughner and Warren Rychel for providing me with the opportunity to serve as the team’s new Head Coach,” said newly appointed Spitfire Head Coach Bob Jones, “We will miss Bob as he joins the Blue Jackets organization but I feel as though my experience and knowledge in working as a coach for over a decade in the OHL will enable me to help lead the Windsor Spitfires to continued success in the upcoming seasons. I also look forward to working with D.J. Smith in his new position as Associate Coach of the Windsor Spitfires and to developing more quality junior aged hockey players and young men as part of the Spitfire organization.”
D.J. Smith will be in his seventh season behind the bench with the Spitfires and his first as the team’s Associate Coach. D.J. worked in his six previous seasons as an Assistant Coach with the Spitfires and has been a key part of Windsor’s improvement since joining the team behind the bench in 2004. A former captain and alumnus of the Spitfires, Smith played in Windsor for his entire junior hockey career from 1994-1997.
Bob Jones Appointed as Spitfires’ Head Coach and D.J. Smith Promoted to Spitfires’ Associate Coach
(Windsor) Earlier today, at a press conference conducted at the WFCU Centre, Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel announced that current Windsor Spitfires President and Head Coach Bob Boughner will be relinquishing his Spitfire head coaching and Team Canada World Junior Under-20 assistant coaching duties to serve as an Assistant Coach with the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets. Rychel also announced that the Windsor Spitfires have appointed Bob Jones, Associate Coach of the Windsor Spitfires for the past three seasons, as the team’s new Head Coach and that D.J. Smith will be promoted to the position of Associate Coach. Smith has served as an Assistant Coach with the Spitfires for the past six seasons.
“On behalf of the entire Windsor Spitfires organization and on a personal level, I wish Bob Boughner the very best as he moves on to work with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Four years ago, when Bob, Peter Dobrich and I purchased the team, our goal was to rebuild the Windsor Spitfires Hockey Club into a perennial contender and championship team. Bob’s hard work, vision and desire helped us achieve our goals, and he has been successful in helping us secure two MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Championships. Bob is very deserving of his new position with the Blue Jackets and has achieved the pinnacle of success in every way imaginable at the junior hockey level. Through today’s announcement, we also have a stable, proven and experienced staff to lead us in the future with Bob Jones being promoted to our head coaching position and with D.J. Smith moving up to fill Associate Coach role. I have confidence and faith in the abilities of Bob Jones and D.J Smith and will look for both to continue to lead the team as Bob Boughner had done in his four years of service to the Windsor Spitfires organization,” said Warren Rychel.
During his four seasons as Head Coach of the Windsor Spitfires, Boughner led the team to successes unparalleled in Spitfire history, culminating in consecutive MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rogers OHL Championships achieved during the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 seasons. During Boughner’s tenure as Head Coach, the Spitfires also posted an impressive 166-80-26 regular season record along with the team’s two best regular season finishes in team history, a 57 win and 115 point season in 2008-2009 as well as a 50 win and 106 point performance in 2009-2010. This was the first time in team history that the Spitfires have posted consecutive 50 win and 100+ point seasons. Furthermore, the 2008-2009 Spitfire squad also won the Hamilton Spectator trophy, as they secured an OHL regular season championship for the second time in Spitfire history.
Boughner also earned two consecutive CHL and OHL Coach of the Year awards in the 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 campaigns. With these honours, Boughner became the first Head Coach in CHL history to have won two CHL Coach of the Year and MasterCard Memorial Cup championships. He also served as the Head Coach of Team Canada’s Under-18 National squad and led them to a perfect 4-0 record and the gold medal at the 2009 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka Tournament in the Czech Republic. Boughner was also behind the bench as the Head Coach of the Western Conference All-Star team at the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic hosted by the Spitfires and as an Assistant Coach with Team Orr in the 2010 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game which was also conducted in Windsor.
Bob Boughner offered the following on today’s announcement, “it’s a bittersweet day for me, both professionally and personally. I am excited to join the Columbus Blue Jackets as an Assistant Coach with their organization but I have also been blessed and honoured to have helped lead the Windsor Spitfires in achieving the goals that Warren, Peter and I set out four years ago when we purchased the team. My experience and successes earned as Head Coach of the Windsor Spitfires have provided me with the opportunity to join Columbus. I am grateful for everything that I have learned and the knowledge that I have acquired from being behind the bench in Windsor. I would also like to thank the Windsor Spitfires fans, the best fans in the CHL for their support. It has truly been a privilege to coach the Windsor Spitfires in such a great hockey town.”
Bob Jones will be in his fourth season behind the bench with the Spitfires and his first as the team’s Head Coach. Jones’ hockey expertise was instrumental in Windsor’s successes enjoyed during the past three seasons. Prior to joining the Spitfires, he served as an Assistant Coach with the Sudbury Wolves from 2004-2007 and helped guide the Wolves to the OHL Eastern Conference Championship and a berth in the OHL Championship series in 2007.
Jones has a wealth of coaching experience in the OHL ranks, as he also served as an Associate Coach and Assistant Director of Hockey Operations with the Toronto St. Michael’s Majors from 2000-2004, as an Assistant Coach with the Brampton Battalion for the 1999-2000 campaign and started his coaching career as an Assistant Coach with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds from 1995-1998. On the international stage, Jones led Team Ontario’s Under-17 team to a gold medal performance at the 2004 World Junior Hockey Championships.
“I would like to thank the Windsor Spitfires and more specifically Bob Boughner and Warren Rychel for providing me with the opportunity to serve as the team’s new Head Coach,” said newly appointed Spitfire Head Coach Bob Jones, “We will miss Bob as he joins the Blue Jackets organization but I feel as though my experience and knowledge in working as a coach for over a decade in the OHL will enable me to help lead the Windsor Spitfires to continued success in the upcoming seasons. I also look forward to working with D.J. Smith in his new position as Associate Coach of the Windsor Spitfires and to developing more quality junior aged hockey players and young men as part of the Spitfire organization.”
D.J. Smith will be in his seventh season behind the bench with the Spitfires and his first as the team’s Associate Coach. D.J. worked in his six previous seasons as an Assistant Coach with the Spitfires and has been a key part of Windsor’s improvement since joining the team behind the bench in 2004. A former captain and alumnus of the Spitfires, Smith played in Windsor for his entire junior hockey career from 1994-1997.
Windsor Spitfires Bob Boughner Leaves Spitfires for NHL
In Play on Facebook
Monday, July 5, 2010 02:51 AM
By Aaron Portzline
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Blue Jackets fill final spot on coaching staff.
The Blue Jackets will complete their coaching staff today with a surprising hire.
Bob Boughner, a former NHL defenseman who has achieved great success coaching in the Canadian junior ranks, will be named an assistant to Scott Arniel, The Dispatch has learned.
Boughner has coached the Windsor Spitfires to two straight Memorial Cups — the Stanley Cup of junior hockey — and is a majority owner in that franchise.
With such a lucrative, successful situation — and in his hometown, no less — many thought Boughner would be reluctant to leave the Spitfires except for a head-coaching position with one of the NHL’s glamour franchises.
Neither Blue Jackets general manager Scott Howson nor Boughner responded to messages left by The Dispatch, and Windsor general manager Warren Rychel would not comment.
But multiple NHL sources said that Boughner’s hiring would be made official by the Blue Jackets today.
He’ll join a staff that includes Brad Berry and Dan Hinote. Each had solid NHL careers.
Boughner played in 630 NHL games with six clubs, totaling 15 goals, 57 assists and 1,382 penalty minutes. He had 106 fighting majors.
Former NHL players Randy Cunneyworth and Mike Ramsey were among the candidates who interviewed for the opening.
Monday, July 5, 2010 02:51 AM
By Aaron Portzline
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Blue Jackets fill final spot on coaching staff.
The Blue Jackets will complete their coaching staff today with a surprising hire.
Bob Boughner, a former NHL defenseman who has achieved great success coaching in the Canadian junior ranks, will be named an assistant to Scott Arniel, The Dispatch has learned.
Boughner has coached the Windsor Spitfires to two straight Memorial Cups — the Stanley Cup of junior hockey — and is a majority owner in that franchise.
With such a lucrative, successful situation — and in his hometown, no less — many thought Boughner would be reluctant to leave the Spitfires except for a head-coaching position with one of the NHL’s glamour franchises.
Neither Blue Jackets general manager Scott Howson nor Boughner responded to messages left by The Dispatch, and Windsor general manager Warren Rychel would not comment.
But multiple NHL sources said that Boughner’s hiring would be made official by the Blue Jackets today.
He’ll join a staff that includes Brad Berry and Dan Hinote. Each had solid NHL careers.
Boughner played in 630 NHL games with six clubs, totaling 15 goals, 57 assists and 1,382 penalty minutes. He had 106 fighting majors.
Former NHL players Randy Cunneyworth and Mike Ramsey were among the candidates who interviewed for the opening.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Windsor Spitfires Select Centre in CHL Import Draft
In Play on Facebook
(Windsor)The Windsor Spitfires have selected Russian centre Alexander Khokhlachev with the 23rd pick in the 2010 CHL Import Draft.
The 16-year-old 5'10”, 172-lb. Khokhlachev played last season with Moscow Spartak and lead Russia in scoring with 5 goals and 8 assists in 6 games enroute to finishing second overall in scoring at the 2010 World Under 17 tournament in Timmins.
“Alexander is a highly-skilled offensive player and has a ton of potential,” said Spitfire general manager Warren Rychel. “He is already rated as a potential first round pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft,”
After acquiring the 26th overall pick in the Import Draft on Monday as part of a deal that saw Phillip Grubauer move to the Kingston Frontenacs, the Spitfires packaged that pick along with a ninth round pick in the 2011 OHL Priority Selection to the Brampton Battalion for the 23rd overall pick and a 15th rounder in 2011.
The 16-year-old slick centre is the youngest player ever taken by the Spitfires in the CHL Import Draft.
“Alexander Khokhlachev is going to be a huge part in the future of our team,” said Rychel. “He has three seasons of junior eligibility with the Windsor Spitfires.”
(Windsor)The Windsor Spitfires have selected Russian centre Alexander Khokhlachev with the 23rd pick in the 2010 CHL Import Draft.
The 16-year-old 5'10”, 172-lb. Khokhlachev played last season with Moscow Spartak and lead Russia in scoring with 5 goals and 8 assists in 6 games enroute to finishing second overall in scoring at the 2010 World Under 17 tournament in Timmins.
“Alexander is a highly-skilled offensive player and has a ton of potential,” said Spitfire general manager Warren Rychel. “He is already rated as a potential first round pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft,”
After acquiring the 26th overall pick in the Import Draft on Monday as part of a deal that saw Phillip Grubauer move to the Kingston Frontenacs, the Spitfires packaged that pick along with a ninth round pick in the 2011 OHL Priority Selection to the Brampton Battalion for the 23rd overall pick and a 15th rounder in 2011.
The 16-year-old slick centre is the youngest player ever taken by the Spitfires in the CHL Import Draft.
“Alexander Khokhlachev is going to be a huge part in the future of our team,” said Rychel. “He has three seasons of junior eligibility with the Windsor Spitfires.”
Saturday, June 26, 2010
SPITFIRE SPOTLIGHT: 3 more players taken in 2010 NHL Entry Draft
In Play on Facebook
Three more Windsor Spitfires were selected in the final day of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Justin Shugg went to the Carolina Hurricanes, Tomas Kuhnackl was claimed by the Pittsburgh Penguins and Phillip Grubauer was selected by the Washington Capitals. All players were drafted in the 4th round.
Carolina Hurricanes select Spitfire right-winger Justin Shugg in the 4th round, 105th overall, in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft
Acquired from the Oshawa Generals on January 9, 2008, right-winger Justin Shugg recently concluded his second full season with the Spitfires. Playing mostly on a line with Scott Timmins and Greg Nemisz during the 2009-2010 season, Shugg scored 39 goals and added 40 assists in 67 games. He followed that up with 5 goals and 10 assists in 18 OHL play-off contests and scored 2 goals and 5 assists in three games while helping the Spitfires win their second consecutive Memorial Cup title. He is a very solid all-around player who is opportunistic when it comes to scoring goals, possesses good hands and has above average offensive instincts.
“Justin found a way to work himself onto the first powerplay unit on a talented team like we had,” says Spitfires head coach Bob Boughner. “I think that says it all about about his game.
“Justin plays well at both ends of the ice and has tremendous hockey sense.”
Pittsburgh Penguins select future Spitfire Tomas Kuhnackl in the 4th round, 110th overall, in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft
Kuhnackl was selected in the first round, 24th overall, of the CHL Import Draft and will be joinging the Spitfires this fall. The 6'2”, 195-lb. right-winger had 12 goals and 12 assists with the Landshut Cannibals in his native Germany. Kuhnackl went pointless in four games with the Ausberger Panther, a team in Germany's top hockey league. Kuhnackl's father Eric was voted the top German hockey player of the 20th century.
“We have have had a lot of good players in Windsor over the last four seasons, and Tom will be right up there with the best of them when it comes to pure skill and skating ability,” contends Spitfire general manager Warren Rychel.
Washington Capitals select Spitfire goaltender Phillip Grubauer in the 4th round, 112th overall, in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft
Acquired as part of a blockbuster deal with the Belleville Bulls in January, 2010, the native of Rosenheim, Germany posted a stellar 2.37 goals-against average and a .906 save percentage, with a 13-1-1 record during the regular season with the Spits. Grubauer soon became the team's go-to netminder in the OHL play-offs, and was particularly steady in Windsor's sweep of the Barrie Colts in the OHL championship series. Grubauer went 4-0 and posted a 2.14 goals against average and .930 save percentage as the Spitfires captured the 2010 Memorial Cup in Brandon.
Prior to arriving in Windsor, he helped lead Germany to the top of the B Pool at the 2010 World Junior Hockey Championships, promoting his native country to the A Pool in 2011.
“Phillip is a mentally tough kid and a fierce competitor,” said Spitfire general manager Warren Rychel. “He is outstanding down low and side to side.”
Three more Windsor Spitfires were selected in the final day of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Justin Shugg went to the Carolina Hurricanes, Tomas Kuhnackl was claimed by the Pittsburgh Penguins and Phillip Grubauer was selected by the Washington Capitals. All players were drafted in the 4th round.
Carolina Hurricanes select Spitfire right-winger Justin Shugg in the 4th round, 105th overall, in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft
Acquired from the Oshawa Generals on January 9, 2008, right-winger Justin Shugg recently concluded his second full season with the Spitfires. Playing mostly on a line with Scott Timmins and Greg Nemisz during the 2009-2010 season, Shugg scored 39 goals and added 40 assists in 67 games. He followed that up with 5 goals and 10 assists in 18 OHL play-off contests and scored 2 goals and 5 assists in three games while helping the Spitfires win their second consecutive Memorial Cup title. He is a very solid all-around player who is opportunistic when it comes to scoring goals, possesses good hands and has above average offensive instincts.
“Justin found a way to work himself onto the first powerplay unit on a talented team like we had,” says Spitfires head coach Bob Boughner. “I think that says it all about about his game.
“Justin plays well at both ends of the ice and has tremendous hockey sense.”
Pittsburgh Penguins select future Spitfire Tomas Kuhnackl in the 4th round, 110th overall, in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft
Kuhnackl was selected in the first round, 24th overall, of the CHL Import Draft and will be joinging the Spitfires this fall. The 6'2”, 195-lb. right-winger had 12 goals and 12 assists with the Landshut Cannibals in his native Germany. Kuhnackl went pointless in four games with the Ausberger Panther, a team in Germany's top hockey league. Kuhnackl's father Eric was voted the top German hockey player of the 20th century.
“We have have had a lot of good players in Windsor over the last four seasons, and Tom will be right up there with the best of them when it comes to pure skill and skating ability,” contends Spitfire general manager Warren Rychel.
Washington Capitals select Spitfire goaltender Phillip Grubauer in the 4th round, 112th overall, in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft
Acquired as part of a blockbuster deal with the Belleville Bulls in January, 2010, the native of Rosenheim, Germany posted a stellar 2.37 goals-against average and a .906 save percentage, with a 13-1-1 record during the regular season with the Spits. Grubauer soon became the team's go-to netminder in the OHL play-offs, and was particularly steady in Windsor's sweep of the Barrie Colts in the OHL championship series. Grubauer went 4-0 and posted a 2.14 goals against average and .930 save percentage as the Spitfires captured the 2010 Memorial Cup in Brandon.
Prior to arriving in Windsor, he helped lead Germany to the top of the B Pool at the 2010 World Junior Hockey Championships, promoting his native country to the A Pool in 2011.
“Phillip is a mentally tough kid and a fierce competitor,” said Spitfire general manager Warren Rychel. “He is outstanding down low and side to side.”
INTERVIEW WITH TAYLOR HALL - EDMONTON OILERS, 1st Pick
In Play on Facebook
Interview with Taylor Hall from last night's NHL Draft courtesy NHL PR.
Q. Was there an element of surprise out there for you tonight?
TAYLOR HALL: I was so shocked. I was shaking in my seat. I got up to the podium, or whatever it is, and I was shaking so much I couldn't even put my jersey on. I'm just so happy. My whole family's so happy. It means a lot to us.
Q. Why were you nervous?
TAYLOR HALL: Because I had no idea what was going on. They said Windsor Spitfires and it's all a blur from there. I don't remember anything. I'm so happy right now.
Q. What's it mean to be an Oiler?
TAYLOR HALL: Just to join such a great franchise. Hopefully I can make that team next year. That's my first step. We can really recreate some of the magic they had there. I think when you have a young team, that's something I'm really looking forward to joining.
Q. Uniting with Jordan Eberle, a pretty good opportunity as well?
TAYLOR HALL: Yeah, that's going to be awesome. He's such a good guy, and good player, and somebody I had a good chemistry in Russia. It's going to be awesome playing with him.
Q. Tambellini said you're the best player, that's why he went with you. How much do you respect that?
TAYLOR HALL: That's something I work for all year. I always push myself on and off the ice, for him to say that, that's such a tremendous comment for him to say. I have no words right now. I'm so honored to join this organization, I feel so honored by them.
Q. You're a student of history. Did you do anything to get drafted by the Oilers and Paul Coffey's on the stage, and Kevin is on the stage?
TAYLOR HALL: Yeah, they're such a great franchise. They have so much history behind them. With the five Cups they won it would mean a lot to me to join their organization, hopefully bring another one up there. That is the ultimate goal for me and the franchise.
Q. Why was Windsor such a good organization to prepare you for that next step?
TAYLOR HALL: I haven't able to give credit to the guys in Windsor. They transformed me as a player. I went there as a young 15?year?old, and I came out as an 18?year?old man. With all the winning they did there, it really taught me a lot about hockey. Just what you have to do in the postseason and everything like that.
Q. Personal significance of going number 1?
TAYLOR HALL: Yeah, there is a lot of significance. I feel honored with all the players that have gone number one. I came into this year, that was one of my goals was to go number one. In saying that, there is still a lot of work to do out here. Dustin Brown on the podium before just saying how much work he had done so far, there is still a lot more to go. So hopefully I can do that.
Q. What kind of play per do you think you were before?
TAYLOR HALL: I have no idea. I haven't even thought about that. That's for them to decide. I don't even know if I'd wear it.
Q. What kind of player do you think the fans at Edmonton should expect to see?
TAYLOR HALL: Well, like I said, I have to still make the team. Nothing's for sure. There are a lot of number 1’s that have gone back to junior.
But I hope to be a dynamic offensive player, I like to play in the corners and knock it up, obviously get points because that's my role.
Q. For somebody who was born in Canada, how does it feel playing in the battle of Alberta?
TAYLOR HALL: Yeah, that is something that shows my career has come full circle. I played in my backyard in Calgary, now I'm playing in the big rink. There's been such a transformation, and it's a tremendous journey that I've been on.
Q. What number will you wear?
TAYLOR HALL: I have no idea. I haven't even thought about that.
Q. The fans it seems were toting whoever was going to be number one as a bit of a savior. Do you feel a burden of expectation in that regard?
TAYLOR HALL: Not really. I thought about that. There are always expectations no matter what you do. Obviously being a number one pick, I have to go in there and have a job to do, and I think I have the tools to do it. I know I have the confidence and the drive, so that's what's going to push me every day to be a better player and help the team out.
Q. Does this make up for going second in the OHL selection?
TAYLOR HALL: No, I'm still really shocked about that, actually. That was a long time ago. I can't imagine three years ago I was that 15?year?old kid hope to go play in the OHL, now I'm going to become a member of the NHL soon. That's tremendous.
Q. Does winning Memorial Cup or going first overall?
TAYLOR HALL: They're totally different things. There's a lot going through my mind right now. Those Memorial Cups are tremendous. You play for a team the whole year, and you develop a bond. With this, this is purely individual; I have a lot of family, and lot of people ?? I owe a lot to them.
Q. (Indiscernible)?
TAYLOR HALL: I had no idea. I was so shocked. Like I said, when they said Edmonton Oilers, my mind went blank there. I have no idea what went on: I was smiling as big as I can. He just said congrats, and the TSN interview said my drive and intensity is what pushed me ahead. That's a part of my game that I've never had to work on, so it's always been good.
Q. You're such a competitor?
TAYLOR HALL: Yeah, being a competitive guy is pretty important to me. At the same time, there is a lot of work to do. Lot of guys have gone number one. They played in the NHL, but they haven't really exceeded the expectations that they began.
So I have a lot of work to do. Sure I went number one, but I still have a team to join, and a team to make better.
Q. Taylor, it's personal for you to win this. What's it mean for the franchise and all the people in Windsor for a Spitfire to go number one?
TAYLOR HALL: Hopefully they're pretty happy. I know my time in Windsor has been remembered really well. I owe a lot to that organization, that city, and it's still a city I love. A city I'm going to go back to. Just like I said, a city I owe a lot to. And hopefully they really appreciate me going number one because I appreciate them.
Q. Do you have a message for the fans back in Edmonton?
TAYLOR HALL: Just that I'm very excited to join the organization. I know that some of them are pulling for me. Hope they're excited for the next season. I know I am. I can't wait to get started with training camp, and just to meet the guys on the team, and hopefully develop a bond with the players and the fans.
Interview with Taylor Hall from last night's NHL Draft courtesy NHL PR.
Q. Was there an element of surprise out there for you tonight?
TAYLOR HALL: I was so shocked. I was shaking in my seat. I got up to the podium, or whatever it is, and I was shaking so much I couldn't even put my jersey on. I'm just so happy. My whole family's so happy. It means a lot to us.
Q. Why were you nervous?
TAYLOR HALL: Because I had no idea what was going on. They said Windsor Spitfires and it's all a blur from there. I don't remember anything. I'm so happy right now.
Q. What's it mean to be an Oiler?
TAYLOR HALL: Just to join such a great franchise. Hopefully I can make that team next year. That's my first step. We can really recreate some of the magic they had there. I think when you have a young team, that's something I'm really looking forward to joining.
Q. Uniting with Jordan Eberle, a pretty good opportunity as well?
TAYLOR HALL: Yeah, that's going to be awesome. He's such a good guy, and good player, and somebody I had a good chemistry in Russia. It's going to be awesome playing with him.
Q. Tambellini said you're the best player, that's why he went with you. How much do you respect that?
TAYLOR HALL: That's something I work for all year. I always push myself on and off the ice, for him to say that, that's such a tremendous comment for him to say. I have no words right now. I'm so honored to join this organization, I feel so honored by them.
Q. You're a student of history. Did you do anything to get drafted by the Oilers and Paul Coffey's on the stage, and Kevin is on the stage?
TAYLOR HALL: Yeah, they're such a great franchise. They have so much history behind them. With the five Cups they won it would mean a lot to me to join their organization, hopefully bring another one up there. That is the ultimate goal for me and the franchise.
Q. Why was Windsor such a good organization to prepare you for that next step?
TAYLOR HALL: I haven't able to give credit to the guys in Windsor. They transformed me as a player. I went there as a young 15?year?old, and I came out as an 18?year?old man. With all the winning they did there, it really taught me a lot about hockey. Just what you have to do in the postseason and everything like that.
Q. Personal significance of going number 1?
TAYLOR HALL: Yeah, there is a lot of significance. I feel honored with all the players that have gone number one. I came into this year, that was one of my goals was to go number one. In saying that, there is still a lot of work to do out here. Dustin Brown on the podium before just saying how much work he had done so far, there is still a lot more to go. So hopefully I can do that.
Q. What kind of play per do you think you were before?
TAYLOR HALL: I have no idea. I haven't even thought about that. That's for them to decide. I don't even know if I'd wear it.
Q. What kind of player do you think the fans at Edmonton should expect to see?
TAYLOR HALL: Well, like I said, I have to still make the team. Nothing's for sure. There are a lot of number 1’s that have gone back to junior.
But I hope to be a dynamic offensive player, I like to play in the corners and knock it up, obviously get points because that's my role.
Q. For somebody who was born in Canada, how does it feel playing in the battle of Alberta?
TAYLOR HALL: Yeah, that is something that shows my career has come full circle. I played in my backyard in Calgary, now I'm playing in the big rink. There's been such a transformation, and it's a tremendous journey that I've been on.
Q. What number will you wear?
TAYLOR HALL: I have no idea. I haven't even thought about that.
Q. The fans it seems were toting whoever was going to be number one as a bit of a savior. Do you feel a burden of expectation in that regard?
TAYLOR HALL: Not really. I thought about that. There are always expectations no matter what you do. Obviously being a number one pick, I have to go in there and have a job to do, and I think I have the tools to do it. I know I have the confidence and the drive, so that's what's going to push me every day to be a better player and help the team out.
Q. Does this make up for going second in the OHL selection?
TAYLOR HALL: No, I'm still really shocked about that, actually. That was a long time ago. I can't imagine three years ago I was that 15?year?old kid hope to go play in the OHL, now I'm going to become a member of the NHL soon. That's tremendous.
Q. Does winning Memorial Cup or going first overall?
TAYLOR HALL: They're totally different things. There's a lot going through my mind right now. Those Memorial Cups are tremendous. You play for a team the whole year, and you develop a bond. With this, this is purely individual; I have a lot of family, and lot of people ?? I owe a lot to them.
Q. (Indiscernible)?
TAYLOR HALL: I had no idea. I was so shocked. Like I said, when they said Edmonton Oilers, my mind went blank there. I have no idea what went on: I was smiling as big as I can. He just said congrats, and the TSN interview said my drive and intensity is what pushed me ahead. That's a part of my game that I've never had to work on, so it's always been good.
Q. You're such a competitor?
TAYLOR HALL: Yeah, being a competitive guy is pretty important to me. At the same time, there is a lot of work to do. Lot of guys have gone number one. They played in the NHL, but they haven't really exceeded the expectations that they began.
So I have a lot of work to do. Sure I went number one, but I still have a team to join, and a team to make better.
Q. Taylor, it's personal for you to win this. What's it mean for the franchise and all the people in Windsor for a Spitfire to go number one?
TAYLOR HALL: Hopefully they're pretty happy. I know my time in Windsor has been remembered really well. I owe a lot to that organization, that city, and it's still a city I love. A city I'm going to go back to. Just like I said, a city I owe a lot to. And hopefully they really appreciate me going number one because I appreciate them.
Q. Do you have a message for the fans back in Edmonton?
TAYLOR HALL: Just that I'm very excited to join the organization. I know that some of them are pulling for me. Hope they're excited for the next season. I know I am. I can't wait to get started with training camp, and just to meet the guys on the team, and hopefully develop a bond with the players and the fans.
Edmonton Oilers select Spitfire left-winger Taylor Hall first overall in 2010 NHL Entry Draft.
In Play on Facebook
Left-winger Taylor Hall is quite simply one of the most dynamic players ever to play major junior hockey in Windsor and the face of the Spitfire franchise for the past three seasons. Born in Calgary and who now resides in Kingston, Ontario, Hall was the second overall selection in the 2007 OHL Priority Selection. After an impressive rookie season that saw him score 45 goals and 39 assists enroute to being named rookie of the year not only in the Ontario Hockey League but the entire Canadian Hockey League, Hall notched 38 goals and added 52 assists in his sophomore season before leading the OHL in play-off scoring and helping lead Windsor to its first OHL title in 21 seasons. Hall capped his incredible season by capturing the Most Valuable Player Award at the 2009 Memorial Cup where the Spitfires won their first ever major junior title.
Playing under the spotlight of being the number one prospect for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Hall scored 40 goals and added 66 assists in 57 games to finish in a tie for the OHL scoring title, despite missing 11 games. He also participated in the 2010 World Junior Hockey Championships (talying 6 goals and 6 assists in 6 games ) while helping Team Canada to the silver medal, the CHL Top Prospects Game , Sub way Super Series and OHL All Star Game. Hall likely capped off his outstanding junior hockey career by repeating as Memorial Cup MVP in May as the Spits successfully defended their national championship.
Hall joins Ed Jovanovski (Florida-1994) as the only Spitfires ever to be selected first overall in the NHL Entry Draft.
“Taylor is simply the best player available in the NHL Entry Draft,” said Spitfires general manager Warren Rychel. “He is dynamic in all areas of the game. His drive is unbelievable.”
Left-winger Taylor Hall is quite simply one of the most dynamic players ever to play major junior hockey in Windsor and the face of the Spitfire franchise for the past three seasons. Born in Calgary and who now resides in Kingston, Ontario, Hall was the second overall selection in the 2007 OHL Priority Selection. After an impressive rookie season that saw him score 45 goals and 39 assists enroute to being named rookie of the year not only in the Ontario Hockey League but the entire Canadian Hockey League, Hall notched 38 goals and added 52 assists in his sophomore season before leading the OHL in play-off scoring and helping lead Windsor to its first OHL title in 21 seasons. Hall capped his incredible season by capturing the Most Valuable Player Award at the 2009 Memorial Cup where the Spitfires won their first ever major junior title.
Playing under the spotlight of being the number one prospect for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Hall scored 40 goals and added 66 assists in 57 games to finish in a tie for the OHL scoring title, despite missing 11 games. He also participated in the 2010 World Junior Hockey Championships (talying 6 goals and 6 assists in 6 games ) while helping Team Canada to the silver medal, the CHL Top Prospects Game , Sub way Super Series and OHL All Star Game. Hall likely capped off his outstanding junior hockey career by repeating as Memorial Cup MVP in May as the Spits successfully defended their national championship.
Hall joins Ed Jovanovski (Florida-1994) as the only Spitfires ever to be selected first overall in the NHL Entry Draft.
“Taylor is simply the best player available in the NHL Entry Draft,” said Spitfires general manager Warren Rychel. “He is dynamic in all areas of the game. His drive is unbelievable.”
Thursday, June 17, 2010
2009-2010 Spitfire Team Awards Announced
In Play on Facebook
(Windsor) The Windsor Spitfires today announced the team’s individual award winners from the 2009-2010 season. Spitfire forward Taylor Hall led all winners as he brought home four awards while Adam Henrique, Eric Wellwood, Mark Cundari and Cam Fowler each received two awards. The complete list of winners is as follows:
2009-10 Spitfire Awards
National Sports Most Valuable Player – Adam Henrique
Hiram Walker and Sons Player of the Year – Taylor Hall
CHYR Award Playoff MVP – Adam Henrique
Freed’s Men’s Wear Leading Goal Scorer – **Taylor Hall
Seagram Trophy Winner – Leading Point Scorer – **Taylor Hall
William McAgy Leading Scoring Defenceman – **Ryan Ellis
Victory Ford Leading Rookie Scorer – Cam Fowler
Tim Hortons Best Defenceman – Mark Cundari
Hiram Walker and Sons Rookie of the Year – Cam Fowler
Scott Miller Award for Dedication and Determination to the Team – **Greg Nemisz
Paul Maurice Award for Dedication and Determination to the Spitfires Organization – Joey Garland
Molson Jr. Cup Three Star Player of the Year – Taylor Hall
Jake Pollen Hardest Working Spitfire of the Year – **Eric Wellwood
McDonald’s Best Defensive Defenceman – **Mark Cundari
Windsor Family Credit Union Academic Achievement – Derek Lanoue
CKLW Most Improved Player – Kenny Ryan
Devonshire Cup Most Underrated Player – Scott Timmins
Jason Bennett Memorial Award for Community Service – (special contributions during 2009 off-season)
**Eric Wellwood and Harry Young, (2009-2010 regular season) Adam Wallace
** Denotes repeat winners from 2008-2009 season
(Windsor) The Windsor Spitfires today announced the team’s individual award winners from the 2009-2010 season. Spitfire forward Taylor Hall led all winners as he brought home four awards while Adam Henrique, Eric Wellwood, Mark Cundari and Cam Fowler each received two awards. The complete list of winners is as follows:
2009-10 Spitfire Awards
National Sports Most Valuable Player – Adam Henrique
Hiram Walker and Sons Player of the Year – Taylor Hall
CHYR Award Playoff MVP – Adam Henrique
Freed’s Men’s Wear Leading Goal Scorer – **Taylor Hall
Seagram Trophy Winner – Leading Point Scorer – **Taylor Hall
William McAgy Leading Scoring Defenceman – **Ryan Ellis
Victory Ford Leading Rookie Scorer – Cam Fowler
Tim Hortons Best Defenceman – Mark Cundari
Hiram Walker and Sons Rookie of the Year – Cam Fowler
Scott Miller Award for Dedication and Determination to the Team – **Greg Nemisz
Paul Maurice Award for Dedication and Determination to the Spitfires Organization – Joey Garland
Molson Jr. Cup Three Star Player of the Year – Taylor Hall
Jake Pollen Hardest Working Spitfire of the Year – **Eric Wellwood
McDonald’s Best Defensive Defenceman – **Mark Cundari
Windsor Family Credit Union Academic Achievement – Derek Lanoue
CKLW Most Improved Player – Kenny Ryan
Devonshire Cup Most Underrated Player – Scott Timmins
Jason Bennett Memorial Award for Community Service – (special contributions during 2009 off-season)
**Eric Wellwood and Harry Young, (2009-2010 regular season) Adam Wallace
** Denotes repeat winners from 2008-2009 season
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Spitfires 2011 Home Opener Announced
In Play on Facebook
OHL Announces 2010-11 Regular Season Schedule
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the regular season schedule of games for 2010-11.
The regular season opens on Thursday September 23, 2010, with two games including the defending Robertson Cup and Memorial Cup Champion Windsor Spitfires in action as they host the Plymouth Whalers at the WFCU Centre with a 7:05 pm puck-drop. Opening night also includes a clash between East Division rivals when the Oshawa Generals visit the Peterborough Petes at 7:00 pm.
The defending Eastern Conference Champions and Bobby Orr Trophy winners the Barrie Colts open their season on Saturday September 25, 2010, when they visit the Plymouth Whalers at 7:05 pm. The Colts will renew their rivalry with the Spitfires in a rematch of the 2010 OHL Championship Series one day later when they visit Windsor on Sunday September 26, 2010, at 2:00 pm.
The 680 game regular season wraps up on Sunday March 20, 2011, before the league’s top 16 teams will battle for the Robertson Cup in the 2011 OHL Playoffs.
The league champion will join the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors at the 2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga, ON, May 20-29, where they will compete against the Champions from the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League in the 93rd edition of the prestigious national championship.
The Ontario Hockey League continues the tradition of being primarily a weekend league in order to accommodate the student athlete with 86.7% (603) of games scheduled between Thursday and Sunday. Friday continues to be the busiest night during the season with 214 games scheduled, followed by 170 on Saturday.
Day - No. of Games (Percentage)
Monday - 13 (1.9%)
Tuesday - 12 (1.8%)
Wednesday - 52 (7.6%)
Thursday - 99 (14.6%)
Friday - 214 (31.5%)
Saturday - 170 (25.0%)
Sunday - 120 (17.6%)
Total – 680
The Windsor Spitfires home opener is set for Thursday, Sept. 23 when the Plymouth Whalers visit the Windsor Spitfires, game time is 7:05 pm
OHL Announces 2010-11 Regular Season Schedule
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the regular season schedule of games for 2010-11.
The regular season opens on Thursday September 23, 2010, with two games including the defending Robertson Cup and Memorial Cup Champion Windsor Spitfires in action as they host the Plymouth Whalers at the WFCU Centre with a 7:05 pm puck-drop. Opening night also includes a clash between East Division rivals when the Oshawa Generals visit the Peterborough Petes at 7:00 pm.
The defending Eastern Conference Champions and Bobby Orr Trophy winners the Barrie Colts open their season on Saturday September 25, 2010, when they visit the Plymouth Whalers at 7:05 pm. The Colts will renew their rivalry with the Spitfires in a rematch of the 2010 OHL Championship Series one day later when they visit Windsor on Sunday September 26, 2010, at 2:00 pm.
The 680 game regular season wraps up on Sunday March 20, 2011, before the league’s top 16 teams will battle for the Robertson Cup in the 2011 OHL Playoffs.
The league champion will join the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors at the 2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga, ON, May 20-29, where they will compete against the Champions from the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League in the 93rd edition of the prestigious national championship.
The Ontario Hockey League continues the tradition of being primarily a weekend league in order to accommodate the student athlete with 86.7% (603) of games scheduled between Thursday and Sunday. Friday continues to be the busiest night during the season with 214 games scheduled, followed by 170 on Saturday.
Day - No. of Games (Percentage)
Monday - 13 (1.9%)
Tuesday - 12 (1.8%)
Wednesday - 52 (7.6%)
Thursday - 99 (14.6%)
Friday - 214 (31.5%)
Saturday - 170 (25.0%)
Sunday - 120 (17.6%)
Total – 680
The Windsor Spitfires home opener is set for Thursday, Sept. 23 when the Plymouth Whalers visit the Windsor Spitfires, game time is 7:05 pm
Friday, June 11, 2010
Spitfires Sign 2010 First Round Pick Grant Webermin to an OHL Contract
In Play on Facebook
(Windsor) Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel today announced the signing of defenceman Grant Webermin, Windsor’s first round pick, 20th overall in the 2010 OHL Priority Selection to an OHL contract and education package. Webermin, listed at 6’0” and 170 pounds, scored 12 goals and 29 points for 41 points with 62 penalty minutes in 52 games played with the Detroit Honeybaked U16’s Minor-Midget team.
Grant Webermin offered the following on signing with the Spitfires, “Leading up to this year’s OHL Priority Selection, I had several great options to choose from in terms of playing either in Canada or in the U.S. I feel very privileged to have been considered by all the teams that approached me but at the end of the day, home is where the heart is and that’s what coming to the Windsor Spitfires meant to me. I’m proud to call Windsor my home and officially becoming a Spitfire today is something that I will not soon forget.”
Warren Rychel said, “We’re proud to bring in a quality player and young man like Grant to the Windsor Spitfires family. I see Grant contributing to our lineup right away in September and he will be an anchor for us on the back end for years to come. The Windsor Spitfires organization is thrilled to have a player of Grant’s caliber join the hockey club.”
Webermin will continue his studies at St. Anne’s High School in Lakeshore, ON next season.
(Windsor) Windsor Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel today announced the signing of defenceman Grant Webermin, Windsor’s first round pick, 20th overall in the 2010 OHL Priority Selection to an OHL contract and education package. Webermin, listed at 6’0” and 170 pounds, scored 12 goals and 29 points for 41 points with 62 penalty minutes in 52 games played with the Detroit Honeybaked U16’s Minor-Midget team.
Grant Webermin offered the following on signing with the Spitfires, “Leading up to this year’s OHL Priority Selection, I had several great options to choose from in terms of playing either in Canada or in the U.S. I feel very privileged to have been considered by all the teams that approached me but at the end of the day, home is where the heart is and that’s what coming to the Windsor Spitfires meant to me. I’m proud to call Windsor my home and officially becoming a Spitfire today is something that I will not soon forget.”
Warren Rychel said, “We’re proud to bring in a quality player and young man like Grant to the Windsor Spitfires family. I see Grant contributing to our lineup right away in September and he will be an anchor for us on the back end for years to come. The Windsor Spitfires organization is thrilled to have a player of Grant’s caliber join the hockey club.”
Webermin will continue his studies at St. Anne’s High School in Lakeshore, ON next season.
Monday, June 7, 2010
BOB BOUGHNER NAMED ASSISTANT COACH OF CANADA'S NATIONAL JUNIOR TEAM
In Play on Facebook
DAVE CAMERON NAMED HEAD COACH OF CANADA’S NATIONAL JUNIOR TEAM
BOUGHNER, HUSKA AND TOURIGNY TO SERVE AS ASSISTANT COACHES
CALGARY, Alta. – Hockey Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Hockey League, announced on Monday that Dave Cameron, head coach of the OHL’s Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors will be head coach of Canada’s National Junior Team for the 2011 IIHF World Junior Championship, scheduled for December 26, 2010 to January 5, 2011 in Buffalo and Niagara, N.Y.
Cameron will be joined behind Canada’s bench by assistant coaches Bob Boughner (head coach of the OHL’s Windsor Spitfires), Ryan Huska (head coach of the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets) and André Tourigny (head coach and general manager of the QMJHL’s Rouyn-Noranda Huskies).
Dave Cameron, 51, will be a part of the National Junior Team coaching staff for the third-consecutive year, having won gold as an assistant coach in 2009 in Ottawa, Ont., before taking silver as an associate coach in 2010 in Regina/Saskatoon, Sask. Cameron also served as head coach of Canada’s National Men’s Summer Under-18 Team at the 2004 Junior World Cup, winning a gold medal. The Kincora, P.E.I. native has been head coach and director of hockey operations of Mississauga St. Michael’s since the 2007-08 season.
“I am truly honoured and humbled to be named head coach of Canada’s National Junior Team,” said Cameron. “I look forward to working with the great staff that we have assembled, and our first objective will be to reclaim gold for Canada at the World Juniors.”
Bob Boughner, 39, was the head coach of Canada’s National Men’s Summer Under-18 Team at the 2009 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka, leading it to its second-consecutive gold medal. Boughner, an 11-year NHL veteran, has led Windsor to Memorial Cup championships in 2009 and 2010, and was named OHL and CHL coach of the year in both 2007-08 and 2008-09.
Ryan Huska, 34, will make his international debut behind the bench at the 2011 IIHF World Championship. The head coach of the Rockets since 2007, Huska is a veteran of seven Memorial Cups as both a player and a coach – he won championships as a player with the Kamloops Blazers in 1992, 1994 and 1995 and as an assistant coach with Kelowna in 2004, and also appeared in the tournament as Kelowna’s assistant coach in 2003 and 2005 and as the team’s head coach in 2009.
André Tourigny, 36, will be an assistant coach with Canada’s National Junior Team for the second year in a row, having served under Willie Desjardins at the 2010 tournament. The Nicolet, Que., native was an assistant coach of Canada’s National Men’s Summer Under-18 Team for the 2008 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka, winning a gold medal. He has been head coach of the Huskies since 2001 and was named QMJHL coach of the year in 2005-06.
“We are very excited about the coaching staff we are naming today for Canada’s National Junior Team,” said Brad Pascall, Hockey Canada’s senior director of men’s national teams. “All four of these coaches bring a wealth of experience, and we look forward to working with them this winter in Buffalo.”
In addition, Hockey Canada also announced the support staff that will be working with Canada’s National Junior Team at the 2011 IIHF World Championship. For a full list of staff members, CLICK HERE.
Hockey Canada will announce details for the National Junior Team’s summer development camp shortly, including the players that will be invited to camp.
DAVE CAMERON NAMED HEAD COACH OF CANADA’S NATIONAL JUNIOR TEAM
BOUGHNER, HUSKA AND TOURIGNY TO SERVE AS ASSISTANT COACHES
CALGARY, Alta. – Hockey Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Hockey League, announced on Monday that Dave Cameron, head coach of the OHL’s Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors will be head coach of Canada’s National Junior Team for the 2011 IIHF World Junior Championship, scheduled for December 26, 2010 to January 5, 2011 in Buffalo and Niagara, N.Y.
Cameron will be joined behind Canada’s bench by assistant coaches Bob Boughner (head coach of the OHL’s Windsor Spitfires), Ryan Huska (head coach of the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets) and André Tourigny (head coach and general manager of the QMJHL’s Rouyn-Noranda Huskies).
Dave Cameron, 51, will be a part of the National Junior Team coaching staff for the third-consecutive year, having won gold as an assistant coach in 2009 in Ottawa, Ont., before taking silver as an associate coach in 2010 in Regina/Saskatoon, Sask. Cameron also served as head coach of Canada’s National Men’s Summer Under-18 Team at the 2004 Junior World Cup, winning a gold medal. The Kincora, P.E.I. native has been head coach and director of hockey operations of Mississauga St. Michael’s since the 2007-08 season.
“I am truly honoured and humbled to be named head coach of Canada’s National Junior Team,” said Cameron. “I look forward to working with the great staff that we have assembled, and our first objective will be to reclaim gold for Canada at the World Juniors.”
Bob Boughner, 39, was the head coach of Canada’s National Men’s Summer Under-18 Team at the 2009 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka, leading it to its second-consecutive gold medal. Boughner, an 11-year NHL veteran, has led Windsor to Memorial Cup championships in 2009 and 2010, and was named OHL and CHL coach of the year in both 2007-08 and 2008-09.
Ryan Huska, 34, will make his international debut behind the bench at the 2011 IIHF World Championship. The head coach of the Rockets since 2007, Huska is a veteran of seven Memorial Cups as both a player and a coach – he won championships as a player with the Kamloops Blazers in 1992, 1994 and 1995 and as an assistant coach with Kelowna in 2004, and also appeared in the tournament as Kelowna’s assistant coach in 2003 and 2005 and as the team’s head coach in 2009.
André Tourigny, 36, will be an assistant coach with Canada’s National Junior Team for the second year in a row, having served under Willie Desjardins at the 2010 tournament. The Nicolet, Que., native was an assistant coach of Canada’s National Men’s Summer Under-18 Team for the 2008 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka, winning a gold medal. He has been head coach of the Huskies since 2001 and was named QMJHL coach of the year in 2005-06.
“We are very excited about the coaching staff we are naming today for Canada’s National Junior Team,” said Brad Pascall, Hockey Canada’s senior director of men’s national teams. “All four of these coaches bring a wealth of experience, and we look forward to working with them this winter in Buffalo.”
In addition, Hockey Canada also announced the support staff that will be working with Canada’s National Junior Team at the 2011 IIHF World Championship. For a full list of staff members, CLICK HERE.
Hockey Canada will announce details for the National Junior Team’s summer development camp shortly, including the players that will be invited to camp.
Friday, May 28, 2010
$30,000 Raised in Wheat Kings' Commemorative Jersey Auction
In Play on Facebook
Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League in association with the Brandon Wheat Kings and the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup Host Committee today announced that a donation of $30,000 will be made to the Dominion Command Poppy Trust Fund. The money was raised through an online auction of the Wheat Kings’ game-worn and game-issued commemorative jerseys for the opening game of the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup.
Poppy funds are spent to support veterans and their families, buy hospital equipment, support cadet groups, and provide student bursaries.
The commemorative jersey signed by Hockey Night in Canada hosts Don Cherry and Ron MacLean received the highest bid of any jersey at $3,800.
Commemorative jerseys worn by the last three hosts of the MasterCard Memorial Cup including the Brandon Wheat Kings, the Rimouski Oceanic, and the Kitchener Rangers have cumulatively generated over $90,000 for the fund.
The commemorative jerseys were designed by the CHL in conjunction with the Brandon Wheat Kings in honour of the Canadian Army, specifically the men and women past, present, and future of CFB Shilo. CFB Shilo is Manitoba’s only army base and is located approximately 20 minutes from Westman Place, home of the Wheat Kings.
The Memorial Cup was donated in 1919 by the Ontario Hockey Association as a memorial to the men and women who had given their lives in the defence of Canada during World War I. This year, the prestigious trophy was rededicated to all of Canada’s war fallen as part of the opening ceremonies of the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup at CFB Shilo.
The Memorial Cup was presented for the 92nd time on Sunday when the Windsor Spitfires became just the eighth team in history to win back-to-back titles.
Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League in association with the Brandon Wheat Kings and the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup Host Committee today announced that a donation of $30,000 will be made to the Dominion Command Poppy Trust Fund. The money was raised through an online auction of the Wheat Kings’ game-worn and game-issued commemorative jerseys for the opening game of the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup.
Poppy funds are spent to support veterans and their families, buy hospital equipment, support cadet groups, and provide student bursaries.
The commemorative jersey signed by Hockey Night in Canada hosts Don Cherry and Ron MacLean received the highest bid of any jersey at $3,800.
Commemorative jerseys worn by the last three hosts of the MasterCard Memorial Cup including the Brandon Wheat Kings, the Rimouski Oceanic, and the Kitchener Rangers have cumulatively generated over $90,000 for the fund.
The commemorative jerseys were designed by the CHL in conjunction with the Brandon Wheat Kings in honour of the Canadian Army, specifically the men and women past, present, and future of CFB Shilo. CFB Shilo is Manitoba’s only army base and is located approximately 20 minutes from Westman Place, home of the Wheat Kings.
The Memorial Cup was donated in 1919 by the Ontario Hockey Association as a memorial to the men and women who had given their lives in the defence of Canada during World War I. This year, the prestigious trophy was rededicated to all of Canada’s war fallen as part of the opening ceremonies of the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup at CFB Shilo.
The Memorial Cup was presented for the 92nd time on Sunday when the Windsor Spitfires became just the eighth team in history to win back-to-back titles.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Windsor Spitfires Defeat Moncton Wildcats 4-3 in Overtime at 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup
In Play on Facebook
Spitfires’ Game Notes – 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup, Round Robin Game #3 versus Moncton Wildcats
- With tonight’s 4-3 overtime win over the Moncton Wildcats, the Windsor Spitfires, defending 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup Champions finished with a perfect 3-0 record in round robin play and have eliminated the Wildcats from the tournament. Moncton is the first team to have been eliminated from the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup. Prior to tonight’s game, the Spitfires had already advanced to the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup Championship game for the second consecutive season when they defeated the Calgary Hitmen 6-2 this past Monday night. The Championship game will be played on Sunday, May 23rd at 7 pm EST and will be broadcast live on Rogers Sportsnet (Cable 54 in Windsor) or fans in the Windsor area can listen to the game live with Spitfire Play-by-Play Announcer Mike Miller on AM800 CKLW. The Windsor Star will also offer a live blog for fans at windsorstar.com
- Windsor has now won seven consecutive MasterCard Memorial Cup games, dating back dating back to last season as Windsor won four consecutive games in the 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup on their way to the Championship. The Spitfires are also currently on an 11 game winning streak during this year’s playoff run.
- Forward Justin Shugg scored one goal and added one assist in tonight’s game and was selected as the game’s first star. Shugg is tied for first in tournament in assists (3), second in goals scored (2) and is tied for second in overall scoring with 5 points.
- Forward Eric Wellwood scored the game winning goal for the Spitfires 12:22 into overtime and was selected as the game’s third star. He is tied for first in the tournament with three assists and is tied for fifth in overall scoring with four points.
- Forward Stephen Johnston and defenseman Cam Fowler scored one goal each for the Spitfires in the win. Fowler scored on the power play at 18:36 of the first period and Johnston tied the game at 3-3, 4:47 into the third period.
- Forward Taylor Hall registered one assist in the game. Hall leads the tournament in goals scored (4) and in points (6).
- Goaltender Philipp Grubauer stopped 38 of 41 shots to win his third consecutive game of this MasterCard Memorial Cup tournament and he has been the starting goalie in each of Windsor’s 11 games during their current playoff winning streak. Grubauer has a 2.50 goals against average and .921 save percentage during this tournament.
- 11 different Spitfire players have scored goals in Windsor’s first three games of the tournament (Hall, Wallace, Ryan, Shugg, Mitchell, Kassian, Henrique, Timmins, Johnston, Wellwood and Fowler) and ten Spitfires have enjoyed multi-point games to this point (Hall, Fowler, Timmins, Henrique, Mitchell, Kassian, Cundari, Nemisz, Shugg, Wellwood).
- Defenceman Cam Fowler is leading all tournament rearguards with four points in three games and is also tied for first overall in assists (3) and is ranked fifth overall in tournament scoring.
Round Robin Spitfire Stats
- Windsor outscored their opponents 19-8 in their three round robin wins.
- Windsor scored four power play goals on ten opportunities generated in three games, for a 40% efficiency.
- Windsor allowed their first power play goal of the tournament against Moncton tonight, and have killed eight of their nine penalties in three games for a 88.9% efficiency.
- Windsor has outshot their opponents in each of the three games they have played and 132-101 overall.
Active Streaks
Points – 3 consecutive games for Hall, Mitchell, Shugg, Fowler, Wellwood
Goals – 2 consecutive games for Shugg
Assists – 2 consecutive games for Hall
2010 Windsor Spitfires MasterCard Memorial Cup Schedule
Round Robin Portion
Friday, May 14th vs. Brandon Wheat Kings – Windsor wins 9-3
Monday, May 17th vs. Calgary Hitmen – Windsor wins 6-2
Tuesday, May 18th vs. Moncton Wildcats – Windsor wins 4-3 in overtime
Championship Game
Sunday, May 23rd – Windsor vs. TBA, 7 pm EST
Spitfires’ Game Notes – 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup, Round Robin Game #3 versus Moncton Wildcats
- With tonight’s 4-3 overtime win over the Moncton Wildcats, the Windsor Spitfires, defending 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup Champions finished with a perfect 3-0 record in round robin play and have eliminated the Wildcats from the tournament. Moncton is the first team to have been eliminated from the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup. Prior to tonight’s game, the Spitfires had already advanced to the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup Championship game for the second consecutive season when they defeated the Calgary Hitmen 6-2 this past Monday night. The Championship game will be played on Sunday, May 23rd at 7 pm EST and will be broadcast live on Rogers Sportsnet (Cable 54 in Windsor) or fans in the Windsor area can listen to the game live with Spitfire Play-by-Play Announcer Mike Miller on AM800 CKLW. The Windsor Star will also offer a live blog for fans at windsorstar.com
- Windsor has now won seven consecutive MasterCard Memorial Cup games, dating back dating back to last season as Windsor won four consecutive games in the 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup on their way to the Championship. The Spitfires are also currently on an 11 game winning streak during this year’s playoff run.
- Forward Justin Shugg scored one goal and added one assist in tonight’s game and was selected as the game’s first star. Shugg is tied for first in tournament in assists (3), second in goals scored (2) and is tied for second in overall scoring with 5 points.
- Forward Eric Wellwood scored the game winning goal for the Spitfires 12:22 into overtime and was selected as the game’s third star. He is tied for first in the tournament with three assists and is tied for fifth in overall scoring with four points.
- Forward Stephen Johnston and defenseman Cam Fowler scored one goal each for the Spitfires in the win. Fowler scored on the power play at 18:36 of the first period and Johnston tied the game at 3-3, 4:47 into the third period.
- Forward Taylor Hall registered one assist in the game. Hall leads the tournament in goals scored (4) and in points (6).
- Goaltender Philipp Grubauer stopped 38 of 41 shots to win his third consecutive game of this MasterCard Memorial Cup tournament and he has been the starting goalie in each of Windsor’s 11 games during their current playoff winning streak. Grubauer has a 2.50 goals against average and .921 save percentage during this tournament.
- 11 different Spitfire players have scored goals in Windsor’s first three games of the tournament (Hall, Wallace, Ryan, Shugg, Mitchell, Kassian, Henrique, Timmins, Johnston, Wellwood and Fowler) and ten Spitfires have enjoyed multi-point games to this point (Hall, Fowler, Timmins, Henrique, Mitchell, Kassian, Cundari, Nemisz, Shugg, Wellwood).
- Defenceman Cam Fowler is leading all tournament rearguards with four points in three games and is also tied for first overall in assists (3) and is ranked fifth overall in tournament scoring.
Round Robin Spitfire Stats
- Windsor outscored their opponents 19-8 in their three round robin wins.
- Windsor scored four power play goals on ten opportunities generated in three games, for a 40% efficiency.
- Windsor allowed their first power play goal of the tournament against Moncton tonight, and have killed eight of their nine penalties in three games for a 88.9% efficiency.
- Windsor has outshot their opponents in each of the three games they have played and 132-101 overall.
Active Streaks
Points – 3 consecutive games for Hall, Mitchell, Shugg, Fowler, Wellwood
Goals – 2 consecutive games for Shugg
Assists – 2 consecutive games for Hall
2010 Windsor Spitfires MasterCard Memorial Cup Schedule
Round Robin Portion
Friday, May 14th vs. Brandon Wheat Kings – Windsor wins 9-3
Monday, May 17th vs. Calgary Hitmen – Windsor wins 6-2
Tuesday, May 18th vs. Moncton Wildcats – Windsor wins 4-3 in overtime
Championship Game
Sunday, May 23rd – Windsor vs. TBA, 7 pm EST
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Windsor Spitfires Defeat Calgary Hitmen 6-2 in 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup, Advance to Championship Game on Sunday, May 23, 2010
In Play on Facebook
Spitfires’ Game Notes
2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup, Round Robin Game #2 versus Calgary Hitmen
- With tonight’s 6-2 win over the Calgary Hitmen, the Windsor Spitfires, defending 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup Champions have a perfect 2-0 record in round robin play and have advanced to the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup Championship game for the second consecutive season. The Championship game will be played on Sunday, May 23rd at 7 pm EST and will be broadcast live on Rogers Sportsnet (Cable 54 in Windsor) or fans in the Windsor area can listen to the game live with Spitfire Play-by-Play Announcer Mike Miller on AM800 CKLW. The Windsor Star will also offer a live blog for fans at windsorstar.com
- Windsor will play their final round robin game as they take on the Moncton Wildcats tomorrow night in an elimination game for the Wildcats at 8 pm EST.
- Windsor has now won six consecutive MasterCard Memorial Cup games, dating back dating back to last season as Windsor won four consecutive games in the 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup on their way to the Championship. The Spitfires are also currently on a 10 game winning streak during this year’s playoff run.
- Forward Taylor Hall scored two goals and added one assist tonight as he was named the first star of the game. This was his second consecutive multi-goal and multi-point performance of this MasterCard Memorial Cup, he was also named the third of Windsor’s opening game against the Brandon Wheat Kings as Windsor won 9-3. Hall leads the tournament in goals scored (4) and in points (5) in two games played.
- Forward Dale Mitchell scored one goal tonight and was selected as the game’s third star. He has scored one goal in each of Windsor’s two MasterCard Memorial Cup games. Mitchell is tied for second in the tournament in goals scored (2) and in points (4) in two games played.
- Forwards Kenny Ryan, Justin Shugg and Adam Wallace scored one goal each for the Spitfires tonight. Ryan has scored one goal in each of Windsor’s two MasterCard Memorial Cup games.
- Goaltender Philipp Grubauer made 25 of 27 saves to win his second consecutive game of this MasterCard Memorial Cup and he has been the starting goalie in each of Windsor’s ten games during their current playoff winning streak. Grubauer has a 2.50 Goals Against Average and .917 Save Percentage in two games during this tournament.
- Eight different Spitfire players have scored goals in Windsor’s first two games of the tournament (Hall, Wallace, Ryan, Shugg, Mitchell, Kassian, Henrique, Timmins) and ten Spitfires have enjoyed multi-point games to this point (Hall, Fowler, Timmins, Henrique, Mitchell, Kassian, Cundari, Nemisz, Shugg, Wellwood)
2010 Windsor Spitfires MasterCard Memorial Cup Schedule
Round Robin Portion
Friday, May 14th vs. Brandon Wheat Kings – Windsor wins 9-3
Monday, May 17th vs. Calgary Hitmen – Windsor wins 6-2
Tuesday, May 18th vs. Moncton Wildcats, 8 pm EST
Championship Game
Sunday, May 23rd – Windsor vs. TBA, 7 pm EST
Spitfires’ Game Notes
2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup, Round Robin Game #2 versus Calgary Hitmen
- With tonight’s 6-2 win over the Calgary Hitmen, the Windsor Spitfires, defending 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup Champions have a perfect 2-0 record in round robin play and have advanced to the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup Championship game for the second consecutive season. The Championship game will be played on Sunday, May 23rd at 7 pm EST and will be broadcast live on Rogers Sportsnet (Cable 54 in Windsor) or fans in the Windsor area can listen to the game live with Spitfire Play-by-Play Announcer Mike Miller on AM800 CKLW. The Windsor Star will also offer a live blog for fans at windsorstar.com
- Windsor will play their final round robin game as they take on the Moncton Wildcats tomorrow night in an elimination game for the Wildcats at 8 pm EST.
- Windsor has now won six consecutive MasterCard Memorial Cup games, dating back dating back to last season as Windsor won four consecutive games in the 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup on their way to the Championship. The Spitfires are also currently on a 10 game winning streak during this year’s playoff run.
- Forward Taylor Hall scored two goals and added one assist tonight as he was named the first star of the game. This was his second consecutive multi-goal and multi-point performance of this MasterCard Memorial Cup, he was also named the third of Windsor’s opening game against the Brandon Wheat Kings as Windsor won 9-3. Hall leads the tournament in goals scored (4) and in points (5) in two games played.
- Forward Dale Mitchell scored one goal tonight and was selected as the game’s third star. He has scored one goal in each of Windsor’s two MasterCard Memorial Cup games. Mitchell is tied for second in the tournament in goals scored (2) and in points (4) in two games played.
- Forwards Kenny Ryan, Justin Shugg and Adam Wallace scored one goal each for the Spitfires tonight. Ryan has scored one goal in each of Windsor’s two MasterCard Memorial Cup games.
- Goaltender Philipp Grubauer made 25 of 27 saves to win his second consecutive game of this MasterCard Memorial Cup and he has been the starting goalie in each of Windsor’s ten games during their current playoff winning streak. Grubauer has a 2.50 Goals Against Average and .917 Save Percentage in two games during this tournament.
- Eight different Spitfire players have scored goals in Windsor’s first two games of the tournament (Hall, Wallace, Ryan, Shugg, Mitchell, Kassian, Henrique, Timmins) and ten Spitfires have enjoyed multi-point games to this point (Hall, Fowler, Timmins, Henrique, Mitchell, Kassian, Cundari, Nemisz, Shugg, Wellwood)
2010 Windsor Spitfires MasterCard Memorial Cup Schedule
Round Robin Portion
Friday, May 14th vs. Brandon Wheat Kings – Windsor wins 9-3
Monday, May 17th vs. Calgary Hitmen – Windsor wins 6-2
Tuesday, May 18th vs. Moncton Wildcats, 8 pm EST
Championship Game
Sunday, May 23rd – Windsor vs. TBA, 7 pm EST
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)