Monday, July 31, 2006

Potential UW Recruit Honing Skills in Beer & Pretzel League

One of UW's potential recruits for 2008, Brett Bruneteau of the Omaha Lancers and member of the USA's U-18 squad heading to Slovakia for the Junior World Cup, has been staying sharp this summer playing in the Beer & Pretzel League (BPHL) in Omaha! As much as I would like to take credit for making this up, it's actually true.

The BPHL website can be found here. When you click through the link, scroll down the main page to the BPHL Video. It is R-rated, but pretty funny. When you think about a potential UW recruit in this league it really makes you laugh. I'm also hoping he's been a little busy making the U-18 team and trying to find a college team to play for, because he is only 38th in scoring in the league as of today!

Boys USA Hockey Select 15 Festival-Day One

From what I can find, Wisconsin has 5 representatives at the USA Hockey Select 15 Festival in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Four are forwards, two of which are from Somerset, and one is a goaltender. I was surprised there are no defensemen from Wisconsin at the Festival as several that were at the tryouts I have seen play and are very good players. Here's the stats after the first round of games:

F-Matt Johnson-Somerset-1.3 Pim
F-Sean Little-Fond du Lac-1 A
F-Kord Miller-Delafield-None
F-Nick Widing-Somerset-3 Pim
F-Corey Morbeck-Jackson-23 minutes, 15 shots-15 saves, 0 ga

Zach Bearson's brother Alex Bearson is also at the Select 15 Festival. Here's his numbers:
F-Alex Bearson-Naperville, IL-1 A, 1.3 Pim

UW Tidbits....

Some tidbits from Andy Baggot UW recruiting article over the weekend:

-Ben Winnett is down to UW and Michigan and will make a decision soon

-Andy Bohmbach still needs to be academically cleared to join UW this season

-Colton Grant, a UW potential recruit, will be playing Major Junior

-Jordan Schroeder chose Minnesota & UW did not offer him a scholarship

As others have come out and said, Wisconsin would have offered Schroeder a scholarship if he wanted to come to UW. Saying UW didn't offer him is basically irrelevant-he was a guy they were targeting and wanted on their roster.

Saturday, July 29, 2006

Day 5 & Final Stats-Girls Select 14

The girls Select 14 Festival is complete in Rochester, New York. The following girls were there from Wisconsin, and here are their stats for the fifth and final day of games and their total stats for the Festival:

F-Macauly Bauer, Sheboygan-2 Pim Total: 1 G, 1 A, 4 Pim
D-Keela Patterson, Wisconsin Rapids-None Total: 1 G, 1 A, 4 Pim
D-Kelly Jaminski, Wisconsin Rapids-None Total: 1 A
D-Madison Kolls, Hudson-None Total: 2 A, 6 Pim
G-Alexandria Rigsby, Delafield-23 min, 12 shots, 12 saves, 0 ga Total: 115 min, 64 shots, 61 saves, .953 save pctg., 3 ga, 1.20 gaa-gave up two shootout goals

Friday, July 28, 2006

Wisconsin Teams at 10,000 Lakes Festival

Several Boys and Girls Wisconsin high school hockey teams & players are descending upon the Schwan Super Rink in Blaine, Minnesota beginning today for the 10,000 Lakes Festival. The tournament features two divisions for both boys and girls teams, and there is Wisconsin representation in each of the four divisions.

In the Boys Gull Lake Division Wausau West is entered. In the Boys Pelican Lake Division there is a team entered under the name Northen Wisconsin Thrashers. In the Girls Mille Lacs Lake Division the Central Wisconsin Storm is participating, while in the Girls Lake Minnetonka Division Fond du Lac/Waupun is participating.

New Link & Mitch Kerns Update

I've added a link to a site listing Division Three men's hockey recruits. One interesting name I ran across on this site is Mitch Kerns from Stoughton who is listed as committed to UW-River Falls beginning this year. He began his Junior career playing in the USHL with Omaha, but ended up in the NAHL after Omaha cut him loose. He also had signed a national letter of intent to play for the University of Minnesota Duluth beginning in the 2005-2006 season, which obviously did not happen.

Thursday, July 27, 2006

Four Down, One to Go for Girls Select 14's

The girls Select 14 Festival is underway in Rochester, New York. The following girls are there from Wisconsin, and here are their stats for the fourth day of games and their total stats for the Festival:

F-Macauly Bauer, Sheboygan-None Total: 1 G, 1 A, 2 Pim
D-Keela Patterson, Wisconsin Rapids-None Total: 1 G, 1 A, 4 Pim
D-Kelly Jaminski, Wisconsin Rapids-None Total: 1 A
D-Madison Kolls, Hudson-None Total: 2 A, 6 Pim
G-Alexandria Rigsby, Delafield-23 min, 16 shots, 15 saves, 1 ga Total: 92 min, 52 shots, 49 saves, .942 save pctg., 3 ga, 1.50 gaa-gave up one shootout goal

Jordan Schroeder Verbals to the Gophers

Jordan Schroeder, who will play for the USNTDP next season, has apparently verballed to the Gophers for 2009-2010. He's a recruit Mike Eaves was apparently very interested in, and had narrowed his list to Wisconsin and Minnesota not long ago. It's not an unexpected turn of events as Schroeder is from Minnesota, but it's always interesting to follow Wisconsin's recruiting of players from Minnesota that the University of Minnesota is also recruiting.

Jamie McBain & Nigel Williams Central Scounting Videos

Check out Jamie McBain's or Nigel Williams' Central Scouting video clip by clicking through the link.

Day 3-Wisconsin Players at the Girls Select 14 Festival

The girls Select 14 Festival is underway in Rochester, New York. The following girls are there from Wisconsin, and here are their stats for the third day of games and their total stats for the Festival:

F-Macauly Bauer, Sheboygan-None Total: 1 G, 1 A, 2 Pim
D-Keela Patterson, Wisconsin Rapids-4 Pim Total: 1 G, 1 A, 4 Pim
D-Kelly Jaminski, Wisconsin Rapids-None Total: 1 A
D-Madison Kolls, Hudson-6 Pim Total: 2 A, 6 Pim
G-Alexandria Rigsby, Delafield-23 min, 9 shots, 7 saves, 2 ga Total: 69 min, 36 shots, 34 saves, .944 save pctg., 2 ga, 1.33 gaa

Bohmbach to UW Official

Andy Bohmbach will be playing for the Wisconsin Badgers THIS season according to Chris Heisenberg's site. Andy is originally from Hudson. He has decent size, works hard in every zone of the ice, and put up numbers similar to Zach Bearson this season (the two were also teammates).

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Girls Select 14 Festival-Day Two

The girls Select 14 Festival is underway in Rochester New York. The following girls are there from Wisconsin, and here are their stats for the second day of games and their total stats for the Festival:

F-Macauly Bauer, Sheboygan-1 G Total: 1 G, 1 A, 2 Pim
D-Keela Patterson, Wisconsin Rapids-1 G, 1 A Total: 1 G, 1 A
D-Kelly Jaminski, Wisconsin Rapids-1 A Total: 1 A
D-Madison Kolls, Hudson-1 A Total: 2 A
G-Alexandria Rigsby, Delafield-23 min, 10 shots, 10 saves, 1.000 save pctg. Total: 46 min, 27 shots, 27 saves, 1.000 save pctg., 0 gaa

UW Linkorama

Lots of stories on future Badgers being written lately. This one is from nhl.com about Blake Geoffrion, this one from the Minneapolis Star Tribune about Chris Hickey, and this one from the Minnesota Wild's website that includes info on Chris Hickey.

Thanks to OpusBadger and 60min. for the links.

INCH's Take on Nick Pryor

INCH (Inside College Hockey) has a new article up discussing 16-year olds that have recently caught their eye. Listed among them is Nick Pryor. Here's what INCH had to say:

Nick Pryor (5-10, 165): Another elite prospect, Pryor has already committed to Wisconsin for the fall of 2009. Pryor was right there with Warsofsky in Rochester with a 3-4—7 scoring line and 16 penalty minutes. Small but very skilled, he's not afraid to mix it up despite his slight frame. From Woodbury, Minn., Pryor skated last year for Hill-Murray H.S. and is expected to be with the U.S. NTDP this coming fall.

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

McDonagh & Skille Updates

The Wisconsin State Journal has a pair of articles about the Badgers today. The first indicates that not only has Ryan McDonagh confirmed his commitment to UW, but he will be jumping straight from high school to the Badgers for the 2007-08 season. This article also mentions that Jake Dowell will replace Joe Pavelski & join Jeff Likens as an Assistant Captain, while Andrew Joudrey will wear the "C" this coming season.

The second article runs down the fact that Jack Skille has decided to remain at UW for his Sophomore season. The decision to stay or go was left up to Skille by the Blackhawks, and he ultimately felt he needed at least one more season at UW.

Monday, July 24, 2006

USA Hockey Select 14 Girls Festival

The girls Select 14 Festival is underway in Rochester New York. The following girls are there from Wisconsin, and here are their stats for the first round of games:

F-Macauly Bauer, Sheboygan-1 A, 2 Pim
D-Keela Patterson, Wisconsin Rapids-None
D-Kelly Jaminski, Wisconsin Rapids-None
D-Madison Kolls, Hudson-1 A
G-Alexandria Rigsby, Delafield-23 min, 17 shots, 17 saves, 1.000 save pctg.

Chowder Cup

Emily Kranz and the Minnesota Ice Cats were bounced from the first playoff game in the Chowder Cup by the Connecticut Polar Stars 4-3. Kranz had an assist to finish with 4 goals and 8 assists in four games.

Sunday, July 23, 2006

Four Badger Women Reportedly Invited to U-22 Festival

The following was posted on a message board. The USA Hockey site has not yet confirmed this:

2006 USA Hockey National Women's Festival Participants
40 of nation's top U-22 players to compete in Lake Placid July 20, 2006

Below is a list of the 40 players who will participate in USA Hockey's National Women's Festival, to be held August 15-22 in Lake Placid, N.Y. The players are listed alphabetically, along with their positions, schools and class standings (for the 2006-07 season).

Kacey Bellamy, D, So., New Hampshire
Kelli Blankenship, F, Fr., Minnesota
Emily Brookshaw, G, Jr., Bemidji State
Caitlin Cahow, D, Jr., Harvard
Lisa Chesson, D, Jr., Ohio State
Katherine Dineen, D, So., Princeton
Rachael Drazan, D, Minnesota Duluth
Carson Duggan, F, So., St. Lawrence
Sam Faber, F, So., New Hampshire
Maggie Fisher, F., So., Minnesota State
Annie Greenwood, F, So., Princeton
Kristin Gigliotti, D, Sr., Providence
Meaghan Guckian, G, Jr, St. Lawrence
Crysti Howser, F, So., Yale
Maggie Kennedy, F, So., Dartmouth
Angie Keseley, F, So., Wisconsin
Hilary Knight, F, HS Senior, Connecticut Polar Bears (NEGHL)
Jessica Koizumi, F, Sr., Minnesota Duluth
Brittni Kuyper, D, Jr., St. Cloud State
Erika Lawler, F, So., Wisconsin
Marianna Locke, F, So., St. Lawrence
Gigi Marvin, F, So., Minnesota
Erica McKenzie, F, Jr., Minnesota
Anya Miller, D, So., Minnesota
Hayley Moore, F, Jr., Brown
Katie Morrison, D, Jr., Clarkson
Sarah Newnam, D, So., Dartmouth
Sarah Parsons, F, Fr., Dartmouth
Nikki Petrich, F, Jr., Northeastern
Helen Resor, D, So., Yale
O'Hara Shipe, G, Jr., Brown
Jennifer Sifers, F, Sr., Harvard
Deborah Spillane, F, Jr., Boston College
Maggie Taverna. D, So., Boston College
Jessica Vetter, G, Jr., Wisconsin
Sonny Watrous, F, Sr., Providence
Sarah Wilson, F, So., Harvard
Sadie Wright-Ward, F, Jr., New Hampshire
Jinelle Zaugg, F, Jr., Wisconsin
Becky Zavisza, F, So., Boston College

Saturday, July 22, 2006

Emily Kranz Update From Chowder Cup

Emily Kranz is playing with the Minnesota Ice Cats at the Women's Chowder Cup. The Ice Cats completed Division play 3-0 and outscored their opponents by a total of 47-6....YIKES! Tomorrow morning they square off against the Connecticut Polar Stars. Emily Kranz has four goals and seven assists for eleven points, and is one of FIVE PLAYERS with 11 points or more on her team after three games!

Friday, July 21, 2006

Boys USA Hockey Select 14 Camp Wrap Up

Here's the rundown on the nine Wisconsin players who attended the Select 14 Development Camp in Rochester, NY. The first set of stats is from their last game of the camp (today), and the second set of stats are their totals for the camp:

F Ryan Belonger-Green Bay (#11 Black)-None Total: 1 A, 2 Pim
G Tony Kujava-Green Bay (#30 Purple)-23 minutes, 21 shots-19 saves, 2 ga Total: 115 minutes, 60 shots-55 saves, 6 ga, 2.4 gaa, .917 save percentage (1 goal was from a shootout)
F Noah Nelson-Oconomowoc (#16 Red)-5 Pim (Game Misconduct) Total: 1 G, 1 A, 9 Pim
F Matt Lennon-Reedsburg (#15 White)-2 A Total: 1 G, 3 A, 2 Pim
D Tyler Jacobson-Cross Plains (#2 Maroon)-None Total: 1 G, 1 A
D Nolan Kirley-Hayward (#6 Navy)-2 Pim Total: 1 G, 1 A, 16 Pim
F Dan Sherer-Nashotah (#15 Navy)-1 G, 1 A Total: 2 G, 1 A, 2 Pim
D Anthony SooHoo-New Berlin (#2 Orange)- None Total: 1 A, 2 Pim
F Shayne McLaughlin-Spooner (#18 Royal)-1 G,2 Pim Total: 1 G, 1 A, 6 Pim

The Low Down on Brent Gwidt...From a Family Member

Brandon Gwidt, Brent's younger brother, left this comment on my Monday post regarding UW and it's apparent lack of recruitment of Brent Gwidt-

Brandon Gwidt said...
Hey im Brent's little brother Brandon. He has not talked to the University of Wisconsin but has talked to some other schools.He got offered a full ride for the 06-07 season to Minnesota State Makato. Northern Michigan offered him a full ride and a paid for visit but they wouldn't want him tell 07-08. Michigan State and Miami Ohio want him to visit on his way down to Indiana. St. Cloud State has been sending him a lot of things and keeping in touch with him. His grades really didnt meet the cuts for Colorado College but they did contact him. Brent is a home boy like no other and would love to go to UW but if they eventually do give him an offer the main question for him is playing time because he is trying to ink out a contract with Washington in the next couple of years. Hes not biting on anything yet but if UW wants him they better get calling him becasue he is one of few uncommitted college players in the draft.

Tom Gilbert

UW's Tom Gilbert has finally signed a contract with the Edmonton Oilers, after sitting out their prospect camp waiting for an agreement.

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Boys Select 14 Camp-Day 4

There are nine Wisconsin players attending the Select 14 Development Camp in Rochester, NY. After four days, here are the days stats & total stats for each player, his position, hometown, roster color and number, as well as a click-through link to his numbers:

F Ryan Belonger-Green Bay (#11 Black)-None Total: 1 A, 2 Pim
G Tony Kujava-Green Bay (#30 Purple)-23 minutes, 10 shots-8 saves, 2 ga Total: 92 minutes, 39 shots-36 saves, 3 ga, 1.5 gaa, .923 save percentage
F Noah Nelson-Oconomowoc (#16 Red)-None Total: 1 G, 1 A, 4 Pim
F Matt Lennon-Reedsburg (#15 White)-2 Pim Total: 1 G, 1 A, 2 Pim
D Tyler Jacobson-Cross Plains (#2 Maroon)-1 G, 1 A Total: 1 G, 1 A
D Nolan Kirley-Hayward (#6 Navy)-1 G, 2 Pim Total: 1 G, 1 A, 14 Pim
F Dan Sherer-Nashotah (#15 Navy)-1 G Total: 1 G, 2 Pim
D Anthony SooHoo-New Berlin (#2 Orange)- 1 A Total: 1 A, 2 Pim
F Shayne McLaughlin-Spooner (#18 Royal)-2 Pim Total: 1 A, 4 Pim

Emily Kranz Ready for Chowder....

Emily Kranz is ready for Chowder...the Chowder Cup that is. She is rostered with the Minnesota Ice Cats Entry into this year's Chowder Cup Tournament. Emily will be a Freshman at UW this coming Fall. The tournament runs from tomorrow through Sunday.

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Blurbs on Gwidt and McBain from Hockey's Future

Hockey's Future recently reviewed the drafts of the Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals who drafted Incoming UW defenseman Jamie McBain and Lakeland High School forward Brent Gwidt respectively.

Rob Nicholson Steps Down as Gamblers President

Rob Nicholson, who has served as the Green Bay Gamblers President for the past 9 years, has stepped down. The team does not plan to hire a replacement.

2006 United States Under-18 Select Team Named

The 2006 United States Under-18 Select Team has been named, and two UW recruits and one UW potential recruit are on the roster. Matt Thurber and Ryan McDonagh, who have both verballed to UW made the team, as well as potential recruit Brett Bruneteau. The team will play in the Junior World Cup held August 8-12 in Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

Here's the roster:

No Name Ht (cm) Wt (kg) Birthdate S/C Hometown 2005-06 Team
GOALTENDERS (2)
1 Dayn Belfour 6-0 (183) 195 (88) 5/27/89 L Toronto, Ontario Victory Honda (Mich.) (midget)
30 Jeremy Smith 6-2 (188) 160 (73) 4/13/89 L Brownstown, Mich. Plymouth Whalers (OHL)

DEFENSEMEN (7)
2 Jonathon Blum 6-1 (185) 170 (77) 1/30/89 R Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif. Vancouver Giants (WHL)
3 David Carle 5-11 (180) 170 (77) 11/9/89 L Anchorage, Alaska Shattuck-St. Mary’s (Minn.) (prep school)
4 Tommy Cross 6-3 (191) 195 (88) 9/12/89 L Simsbury, Conn. Simsbury (Conn.) (high school)
5 Vincent LoVerde 6-0 (183) 205 (93) 4/14/89 R Chicago, Ill. Waterloo Blackhawks (USHL)
6 Ryan McDonagh 6-1 (185) 195 (88) 6/13/89 L Arden Hills, Minn. Cretin-Derham Hall (Minn.) (high school)
7 Nick Petrecki 6-3 (191) 215 (98) 7/11/89 L Clifton Park, N.Y. Omaha Lancers (USHL)
8 Matt Tomassoni 5-10 (178) 160 (73) 7/30/89 R Carol Stream, Ill. Chicago Mission (midget)

FORWARDS (13)
9 Cam Atkinson 5-7 (170) 155 (70) 6/5/89 R Riverside, Conn. Avon Old Farms (prep school)
10 David Brownschidle 6-1 (185) 185 (84) 5/23/89 R Lawrenceville, N.J. Tri-City Storm (USHL)
11 Brett Bruneteau 5-11 (180) 183 (83) 1/5/89 L Omaha, Neb. Omaha Lancers (USHL)
12 Joe Diamond 5-6 (168) 152 (69) 6/16/89 L Long Beach, N.Y. New York Apple Core (EJHL)
14 Shane Harper 5-10 (178) 178 (81) 2/1/89 R Valencia, Calif. Everett Silvertips (WHL)
15 Jimmy Hayes 6-5 (196) 210 (95) 11/21/89 R Dorchester, Mass. Noble & Greenough (prep school)
16 Mike Hoeffel 6-2 (188) 185 (84) 4/9/89 L North Oaks, Minn. Hill-Murray (Minn.) (high school)
17 Tyler Johnson 5-9 (175) 155 (70) 1/4/89 R Cloquet, Minn. Cloquet (Minn.) (high school)
18 Eddie Olczyk 5-11 (180) 172 (78) 6/17/89 R Long Grove, Ill. Pittsburgh Predators (midget)
19 Nico Sacchetti 5-11 (180) 185 (84) 8/21/89 R Virginia, Minn. Virginia (Minn.) (high school)
20 Thomas Serratore 6-0 (183) 170 (77) 7/16/89 L Colorado Springs, Colo. Colorado Thunderbirds (midget)
21 Matt Thurber 5-10 (178) 185 (84) 10/2/89 R Beaver Dam, Wis. Omaha Lancers (USHL)
22 Patrick White 6-1 (185) 190 (86) 1/20/89 R Grand Rapids, Minn. Grand Rapids (Minn.) (high school)

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

USA Hockey Boys Select 14 Camp-Day 3

There are nine Wisconsin players attending the Select 14 Development Camp in Rochester, NY. After three days, here are the days stats & total stats for each player, his position, hometown, roster color and number, as well as a click-through link to his numbers.

F Ryan Belonger-Green Bay (#11 Black)-None Total: 1 A, 2 Pim
G Tony Kujava-Green Bay (#30 Purple)-23 minutes, 9 shots-8 saves, 1 ga Total: 69 minutes, 29 shots-28 saves, 1 ga, .67 gaa, .966 save percentage
F Noah Nelson-Oconomowoc (#16 Red)-1 G, 1 A Total: 1 G, 1 A, 4 Pim
F Matt Lennon-Reedsburg (#15 White)-None Total: 1 G, 1 A
D Tyler Jacobson-Cross Plains (#2 Maroon)-None Total: None
D Nolan Kirley-Hayward (#6 Navy)-4 Pim Total: 1 A, 12 Pim
F Dan Sherer-Nashotah (#15 Navy)-None Total: 2 Pim
D Anthony SooHoo-New Berlin (#2 Orange)- 2 Pim Total: None
F Shayne McLaughlin-Spooner (#18 Royal)-2 Pim Total: 1 A, 2 Pim

Monday, July 17, 2006

UW Needs at Least Six Forwards for 2007...and has a Verbal Commitment from One

Much has been written today about Brent Gwidt and the possibility that Mankato offered him a scholarship for this season, and many have wondered about UW's interest in Gwidt. I have read that the Badgers aren't pursuing him very hard, which seems strange. His recruitment by UW is up in the air, but several things are certain in terms of UW's roster. Ross Carlson, Andrew Joudrey, Andy Brandt and Jake Dowell graduate next season. The Badgers are currently one short of their targeted 15 forwards they like to carry during the season. Jack Skille is gone to the Blackhawks this offseason or next. All of this means that the Badgers need 6 forwards for 2007 and have only a commitment from Kyle Turris at this point. I don't even think it is likely for any of the 2007 recruits to accelerate, meaning UW needs to find at least 5 more forwards for 2007, barring any other early departures.

It's been reported that for 2007 UW has offered Brett Bruneteau (USHL), Colton Grant (AJHL) and Ben Winnett (BCHL). It's also been reported that they have an interested in Ryan Schnell from the USNTDP, and rumored they have an interest in Brennan Vargas from the USNTDP. While going five for five with those recruits would be great, it's not very likely.

So why are the Badgers not after Brent Gwidt? My guess is they'd like to see him play some USHL competition prior to making an offer. It would allow them to have an idea of where he stands against a higher level of competition, and may give them a better idea of how much time it will take him to be ready for the next step.

I also think UW should consider Andy Bohmbach from Hudson who has spent the past two years with the Waterloo Blackhawks. From the reports I've seen, he works hard up and down the ice every shift. He also has good size at 6' 2" and could probably add to his listed 175 pounds. He will be 20 in February and thus should be both mentally and physically mature.

Hopefully UW can get an answer in the near future from Bruneteau, Grant and Winnett so they can continue to try to add to their incoming class for 2007.

Day 2-USA Hockey Select 14 Camp

There are nine Wisconsin players attending the Select 14 Development Camp in Rochester, NY. After two days, here are the days stats & total stats for each player, his position, hometown, roster color and number, as well as a click-through link to his numbers.

F Ryan Belonger-Green Bay (#11 Black)-1 A, 2 Pim Total: 1 A, 2 Pim
G Tony Kujava-Green Bay (#30 Purple)-23 minutes, 11 shots-11 saves, 0 ga Total: 46 minutes, 20 shots-20 saves, 0 ga, 0 gaa, 1.00 save percentage
F Noah Nelson-Oconomowoc (#16 Red)-4 Pim Total: 4 Pim
F Matt Lennon-Reedsburg (#15 White)-None Total: 1 G, 1 A
D Tyler Jacobson-Cross Plains (#2 Maroon)-None Total: None
D Nolan Kirley-Hayward (#6 Navy)-1 A, 4 Pim Total: 1 A, 8 Pim
F Dan Sherer-Nashotah (#15 Navy)-None Total: 2 Pim
D Anthony SooHoo-New Berlin (#2 Orange)- None Total: None
F Shayne McLaughlin-Spooner (#18 Royal)-1 A Total: 1 A

Sunday, July 16, 2006

USA Hockey Boys Select 14 Development Camp

There are nine Wisconsin players attending the Select 14 Development Camp in Rochester, NY. Games got underway today, and here are the stats for each player, as well as his position, hometown, roster color and number, as well as a click-through link to his numbers.

F Ryan Belonger-Green Bay (#11 Black)-None
G Tony Kujava-Green Bay (#30 Purple)-23 minutes, 9 shots-9 saves, 1.00 save percentage, 0 ga
F Noah Nelson-Oconomowoc (#16 Red)-None
F Matt Lennon-Reedsburg (#15 White)-1 G, 1 A
D Tyler Jacobson-Cross Plains (#2 Maroon)-None
D Nolan Kirley-Hayward (#6 Navy)-4 Pim
F Dan Sherer-Nashotah (#15 Navy)-2 Pim
D Anthony SooHoo-New Berlin (#2 Orange)- None
F Shayne McLaughlin-Spooner (#18 Royal)-None

Saturday, July 15, 2006

Notes: Pat Kane No Longer Considering UW & Walk-ons

According to the Wisconin State Journal's Andy Baggot, Patrick Kane is no longer considering UW. In his latest article, Baggot also quotes Mike Eaves as saying that he will likely add a walk-on or two for this season in order to have the necessary depth on his roster.

The Badgers like to roster 15 forwards for the season, and have now fallen to 14 with Pavelski's departure. With Jack Skille still to decide next month if he'll play for UW or the Chicago Blackhawks during the coming season, the Badgers are in danger of falling to just 13 forwards on the roster if he should leave.

Friday, July 14, 2006

Final Stats-Girls Select 15/16

There are seven girls with Wisconsin ties attending the USA Hockey Girls Select 15/16 Camp. Here are their fifth day stats, as well as their totals for the camp:

F Dawson Bancroft Short (Prairie Du Sac)-None Total: 1 G, 2 Pim
D Brittany Carlson (Hudson)-2 Pim Total: 2 A, 10 Pim
F Brianna Decker (Dousman)-1 G, 1 A, 6 Pim Total: 4 G, 2 A, 14 Pim
D Ashley Hietpas (Little Chute)-1 A Total: 2 A, 6 Pim
F Jamie Kenyon (Sparta)-None Total: 2 G, 3 A, 6 Pim
F Amanda Kessel (Verona)-2 Pim Total: 5 G, 8 Pim
F Kimberly Tess-Wanat (Fond du Lac)-1 G, 2 A Total: 3 G, 2 A

Brianna Decker tied for 5th in scoring with 6 points, while Amanda Kessel, Kimberly Tess-Wanat and Jamie Kenyon finished tied for 10th in scoring with 5 points.

Final Stats-Boys Select 17 Camp

The following players with Wisconsin ties participated in the Select 17 Camp, and here are their stats for the fifth day, and their total stats for the camp:
G-Michael Johnson (Madison Capitols)-23 minutes, saved 11 of 15, 4 ga Total: 115 minutes, saved 54 of 64, .844 sv. %, 10 ga, 4.00 gaa
D-Blake Kessel (Traverse City-NAHL, was Madison Capitols)-None Total: 1 G, 3 A, 3 Pim
F-Craig Smith (Madison LaFollette)-1 G Total: 1 G, 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Seth Soley (Eau Claire Memorial)-1.3 Pim Total: 4.3 Pim
F-Daniel Olszewski (Madison Capitols was Janesville H.S.)-None Total: 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Matt Thurber (Omaha Lancers, Committed to UW)-1 g, 1.3 Pim Total: 3 G, 1 A, 6 Pim
F-Keegan Meuer (Madison Capitols was Madison Memorial)-1 A Total: 1 G, 5 A, 3 Pim
F-Patrick Johnson (Madison Capitols was Madison Memorial)-1.3 Pim Total: 4.3 Pim
D-AJ Sturges (USNTDP, Committed to Michigan State)-None Total: 2 A, 3 Pim
F-Ryan Schnell (USNTDP, Potential UW Recruit)-None Total: 1 A
F-Brett Bruneteau (Omaha Lancers, Potential UW Recruit)-1.3 Pim Total: 2 G, 2 A, 7.3 Pim
D-Ryan McDonagh (Cretin-Derham H.S. MN, Committed to UW)-1 A Total: 1 G, 2 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Brennan Vargas (USNTDP, Potential UW Recruit)-1 G Pim Total: 1G, 4 A, 3 Pim

Keegan Meuer tied for 4th in points with 6, while Brennan Vargas finished with 5 points, and Thurber, Bruneteau and Kessel each had 4 points.

Thursday, July 13, 2006

2 PM Press Conference Friday to Officially Announce Pavelski's Gone Pro

NBC 15 in Madison is reporting there will be a 2 PM press conference Friday, July 14th to officially announce that Joe Pavelski has turned pro.

Day 4 of the Boys Select 17 Camp

The following players with Wisconsin ties are at the Select 17 Camp, and here are their stats for the fourth day, and their total stats for the first four days:

G-Michael Johnson (Madison Capitols)-23 minutes, saved 9 of 11, 2 ga Total: 92 minutes, saved 43 of 49, .878 sv. %, 6 ga, 3.00 gaa
D-Blake Kessel (Traverse City-NAHL, was Madison Capitols)-1 G, 1.3 Pim Total: 1 G, 3 A, 3 Pim
F-Craig Smith (Madison LaFollette)-None Total: 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Seth Soley (Eau Claire Memorial)-3 Pim Total: 3 Pim
F-Daniel Olszewski (Madison Capitols was Janesville H.S.)-None Pim Total: 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Matt Thurber (Omaha Lancers, Committed to UW)-None Total: 2 G, 1 A, 4.3 Pim
F-Keegan Meuer (Madison Capitols was Madison Memorial)-1 A Total: 1 G, 4 A, 3 Pim
F-Patrick Johnson (Madison Capitols was Madison Memorial)-1.3 Pim Total:3 Pim
D-AJ Sturges (USNTDP, Committed to Michigan State)-1 A Total: 2 A, 3 Pim
F-Ryan Schnell (USNTDP, Potential UW Recruit)-None Total: 1 A
F-Brett Bruneteau (Omaha Lancers, Potential UW Recruit)-2 G Total: 2 G, 2 A, 6 Pim
D-Ryan McDonagh (Cretin-Derham H.S. MN, Committed to UW)-None Total: 1 G, 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Brennan Vargas (USNTDP, Potential UW Recruit)-1 A, 1.3 Pim Total: 4 A, 3 Pim

Day 4-Girls Select 15/16 Camp

There are seven girls with Wisconsin ties attending the USA Hockey Select 15/16 Camp. Here are their fourth day stats, as well as their four day totals:

F Dawson Bancroft Short (Prairie Du Sac)-1 G Total: 1 G, 2 Pim
D Brittany Carlson (Hudson)-None Total: 2 A, 8 Pim
F Brianna Decker (Dousman)-1 G Total: 3 G, 1 A, 8 Pim
D Ashley Hietpas (Little Chute)-None Total: 1 A, 6 Pim
F Jamie Kenyon (Sparta)-1 G, 2 A Total: 2 G, 3 A, 6 Pim
F Amanda Kessel (Verona)-5 G, 4 Pim Total: 5 G, 6 Pim
F Kimberly Tess-Wanat (Fond du Lac)-None Total: 2 G

Amanda Kessel had no points coming into today's game. She scored 5 goals today and racked up 4 penalty minutes when she wasn't scoring...Kessel and Kenyon are both in the top 10 in points with 5 a piece, with Decker close behind with 4 points-which puts her in the top 20 in points.

Final Report from Blackhawks Prospect Camp

The Wisconsin players at the Blackhawk Prospect Camp fared very well. Jake Dowell, Jack Skille and Adam Burish were all in attendance, while Matt Ford could not participate due to a recent appendectomy. Here are the staff, coaches, scouts and players thoughts on who stood out at the camp.

Hockey's Future on Derrick LaPoint

Hockey's Future has been rolling out their draft reviews over the past week or so, and recently released their review of Florida's draft. In that article they cover all of their draft picks, and here is what they had to say about Derrick LaPoint:

Derrick Lapoint, D
Fourth Round, 116th Overall, Eau Claire North High School (USHSW)
Born: 5-13-1988, Ht: 6’3, Wt: 175 lbs.

The youngest of the three defensemen taken by the Panthers in the 2006 draft, Wisconsin native Derrick Lapoint was so attractive to Florida that they traded into the bottom of the fourth round to grab him. An enticing package of offensive flash and defensive acumen, Lapoint shot up draft boards this past season during an impressive senior year. Selected as an all-state first team defenseman for the second straight season, Lapoint showed enough ability on the ice and character off it to be named the 2006 Wisconsin High School Player of the Year.

Heavily recruited in his senior season by a number of big hockey programs in the NCAA, Lapoint decided on North Dakota of the WCHA, where his brother is the equipment manager. As he will not be joining the Fighting Sioux until 2007, Lapoint plans on suiting up for Green Bay of the USHL this fall.

The transition to Division I hockey next year will be instrumental in determining how high the ceiling is for Lapoint, who is still something of an unknown quantity given that he has only played, albeit excellently, at the high school level. Blessed with good hockey sense and deft on the puck, Lapoint will need to add significant upper body strength onto his lanky frame at the college level. The Panthers obviously think that Lapoint should be capable of taking the next step down the path towards a future in the NHL.

USA Hockey Girls Select 15/16 Camp-Day 3

There are seven girls with Wisconsin ties attending the USA Hockey Select 15/16 Camp. Here are their third day stats, as well as their three day totals:

F Dawson Bancroft Short (Prairie Du Sac)-None Total: 2 Pim
D Brittany Carlson (Hudson)-1 G, 1 A, 2 Pim Total: 1 G, 1 A, 8 Pim
F Brianna Decker (Dousman)-4 Pim Total: 2 G, 1 A, 8 Pim
D Ashley Hietpas (Little Chute)-None Total: 1 A, 6 Pim
F Jamie Kenyon (Sparta)-2 Pim Total: 1 G, 1 A, 6 Pim
F Amanda Kessel (Verona)-2 Pim Total: 2 Pim
F Kimberly Tess-Wanat (Fond du Lac)-None Total: 2 G

Other than Brittany Carlson, it was a pretty slow day on the good side of the stat sheet for the Wisconsin girls...

Reports: Pavelski has Signed with the San Jose Sharks

NBC 15 in Madison and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel are reporting that Joe Pavelski has signed a pro contract with San Jose. He apparently is just waiting for the Sharks to sign the paperwork, and the league office to OK it. At that point, a press conference will be scheduled.

The Journal Sentinel also reports that Skille is expected back with the Badgers this season, even following a great training camp with the Blackhawks.

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

In-Person Boys Select 17 Camp Report

The Western College Hockey Blog has a nice post today regarding the Boys Select 17 Camp. Chris, the author of the blog, was able to take in Sunday's games and run down some of his thoughts on each game. There are several players with Wisconsin ties mentioned.

Further Information Released on the Wisconsin High School Elite League

WAHA has released further information on the planned Wisconsin High School Elite League planned for this fall. This page lists the details while this one has all the tryout dates and game schedules.

Four Wisconsinites Make NAHL Marquette Rangers Initial 19 Player Roster

The Marquette Rangers have announced the first 19 of 23 players to be named to their roster. Four players from Wisconsin are included-Nic Weight from Northland Pines H.S., Chad Johnson from Wisconsin Dells H.S., Nick Condon who played at Wausau West prior to playing Junior B, and Cole Holmes of University School. Holmes has also been named to the Green Bay Gamblers 25-man roster, so it remains to be seen if he will make the final cut with Green Bay and/or where he will choose to play. Defenseman Brandon Busse from Stevens Point H.S. had been tendered by Marquette, but did not make the initial roster.

The entire Marquette roster follows:

Forwards:

Jacob Hauswirth
Lead Objibwa Eagles (MI) Midget AAA in goals scored
Neeco Belanger
Chilliwack Chiefs of the British Columbia Jr. Hockey League
Nick Kosinski
Cleveland of the NAHL
Luke Bennett
Bozeman Ice Dogs of NAHL
MichaelMacari
Crestwood High School - Michigan
Nic Weight
Northland Pines High School - Wisconsin
Chad Johnson
Wisconsin Dells High School - Wisconsin
Chris Smith
Surrey of the British Columbia Jr. Hockey League
Raymond Gillies
Ohio Junior Bluejackets Midget AAA
Jake Saville
Helena of the NAHL
Cole Holmes
University High School - Wisconsin
Dustin Partacz
Neuqua Valley High School - Illinois

Defensemen:

Ross Rouleau
Hancock High School - Michigan
Bret Larson
Mahoning Valley of the NAHL
Nick Condon
Minnesota Ice Hawks Junior B
Jason Cohen
Capital Centre Pride Midget AAA - Michigan
Andy Keogh
Wayzata High School - Minnesota
Todd Graham
Sequin of the Ontario Provincial Jr. Hockey League

Goalies:

Stephen Ritter
Providence College

UW's Forward "Situation"

I was taking a look at the future consequences of Joe Pavelski's seemingly imminent departure for San Jose, and it's consequences for this season and beyond. For the 2007-2008 season there is only one forward that will be a Senior, assuming he remains (Ford). In that season, the only possible Junior forwards are Skille, Street and Gorowsky-again, assuming they remain (and Skille probably won't). UW is going to be very young at forward for at least the next couple of years. The unbalanced classes at forward from a few years ago are starting to wreak havoc on the lineup.

The pressure is really on to line up forwards for 2007 besides Turris as there are 4 graduates following this season, and Skille is likely gone this offseason or next. I think Hickey or Turnbull could come in for 2007 but unless he accelerates his schooling, Thurber is just a Junior in high school next year I believe, as is Montpetit. Turnbull is on the Waterloo Blackhawks 25-man roster so hopefully he will play in the USHL this coming season in case he's needed as it would make him more prepared than if he played high school hockey in Duluth. Hickey was not drafted by a USHL team and is not on any of their 25 man rosters (because he told them all he was going to play high school hockey) which would probably mean it would be unlikely he'll join UW for the 2007-08 season.UW will likely be keeping close tabs on any Wisconsin forwards in the USHL next season, depending on how they do with Grant, Winnett, Bruneteau or Kane (doubtful).

Here's a list of Wisconsin forwards that have made USHL 25-man rosters that were set on 7/1/06, and do not have college commitments:

Returning USHL Forwards:
Forward Andy Bohmbach plays for Waterloo and is an '87 birthdate
Forward Justin Cseter plays for Green Bay and is an '88 birthdate
Forward Jacob Drewiske plays for Sioux Falls and is an '87 birthdate
Forward Patrick Tiesling plays for Sioux Falls and is an '88 birthdate
Forward Sean Wiles plays for Tri-City and is an '87 birthdate
Forward Nathan Lawrence plays for Chicago and is an '87 birthdate
Forward Mike Sislo plays for Green Bay and is an '88 birthdate

Incoming USHL Forwards:
Forward Brent Gwidt was drafted by Indiana (was also selected by Washington in NHL draft)
Forward David Solway was drafted by Sioux Falls (played in NAHL last year)
Forward Cole Holmes made Green Bay's 25 man roster via tryout

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

USA Hockey Girls Select 15/16 Camp-Day Two

There are seven girls with Wisconsin ties attending the USA Hockey Select 15/16 Camp. Here are their second day stats, as well as their two day totals:

F Dawson Bancroft Short (Prairie Du Sac)-None Total: 2 Pim
D Brittany Carlson (Hudson)-6 Pim Total: 6 Pim
F Brianna Decker (Dousman)-2 Pim Total: 2 G, 1 A, 4 Pim
D Ashley Hietpas (Little Chute)-1 A, 6 Pim Total: 1 A, 6 Pim
F Jamie Kenyon (Sparta)-1 G, 2 Pim Total: 1 G, 1 A, 4 Pim
F Amanda Kessel (Verona)-None Total: None
F Kimberly Tess-Wanat (Fond du Lac)-2 G Total: 2 G

USA Hockey Boys Select 17 Camp-Day 3

The following players with Wisconsin ties are at the Select 17 Camp, and here are their stats for the third day, and their total stats for the first three days:
G-Michael Johnson (Madison Capitols)-23 minutes, saved 13 of 15, 2 ga Total: 69 minutes, saved 34 of 38, .895 sv. %, 4 ga, 2.67 gaa
D-Blake Kessel (Traverse City-NAHL, was Madison Capitols)-2 A Total: 3 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Craig Smith (Madison LaFollette)-None Total: 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Seth Soley (Eau Claire Memorial)-None Total: None
F-Daniel Olszewski (Madison Capitols was Janesville H.S.)-1 A, 1.3 Pim Total: 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Matt Thurber (Omaha Lancers, Committed to UW)-1 G Total: 2 G, 1 A, 4.3 Pim
F-Keegan Meuer (Madison Capitols was Madison Memorial)-1 G Total: 1 G, 3 A, 3 Pim
F-Patrick Johnson (Madison Capitols was Madison Memorial)-None Total:1.3 Pim
D-AJ Sturges (USNTDP, Committed to Michigan State)-1 A, 1.3 Pim Total: 1 A, 3 Pim
F-Ryan Schnell (USNTDP, Potential UW Recruit)-None Total: 1 A
F-Brett Bruneteau (Omaha Lancers, Potential UW Recruit)-2 A,1.3 Pim Total: 2 A, 6 Pim
D-Ryan McDonagh (Cretin-Derham H.S. MN, Committed to UW)-1 G Total: 1 G, 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Brennan Vargas (USNTDP, Potential UW Recruit)-None Total: 3 A, 1.3 Pim

Nick Graves & David Solway Article

The Green Bay Press Gazette finally rolled out an article today primarily about Nick Graves, but also mentioning David Solway. Graves is from Marshfield, played for the Junior Gamblers last season, and would be the first Junior Gambler to make a USHL roster- should he make final cuts with the Green Bay Gamblers. David Solway has made the Sioux Falls Stampede 25-man roster and said he expects to make their final roster. Solway is from Green Bay and played last season for Santa Fe in the NAHL.

"Wisconsin Blackhawks"

The UW contingent continued to tear it up at the Blackhawk Prospect Camp Monday. Jake Dowell had two goals, Skille had a goal and an assist, and Adam Burish had an assist. Camp wraps up Tuesday with a final scrimmage.

JS Online Pavelski/Elliott/Skille Article

The JS Online has an article today rehashing the fact that Brian Elliott is staying at UW, Pavelski is likely to leave, but also that Skille could still potentially get an offer from the Blackhawks with a strong showing at their Prospects camp (and oh, by the way, Skille is the leading scorer at the camp).

Girls with Wisconsin Ties at the USA Hockey Select 15/16 Camp

There are seven girls with Wisconsin ties attending the USA Hockey Select 15/16 Camp. Here are their first day stats totals:

F Dawson Bancroft Short (Prairie Du Sac)-2 Pim
D Brittany Carlson (Hudson)-None
F Brianna Decker (Dousman)-2 G, 1 A, 2 Pim
D Ashley Hietpas (Little Chute)-None
F Jamie Kenyon (Sparta)-1 A, 2 Pim
F Amanda Kessel (Verona)-None
F Kimberly Tess-Wanat (Fond du Lac)-None

Boys Select 17 Camp-Day Two Report

The following players with Wisconsin ties are at the Select 17 Camp, and here are their stats for the second day, and their total stats for the first two days:

G-Michael Johnson (Madison Capitols)-23 minutes, saved 8 of 8, 0 gaa Total: 46 minutes, saved 21 of 23, .913 sv. %, 2 gaa
D-Blake Kessel (Traverse City-NAHL, was Madison Capitols)-1 A, 1.3 Pim Total: 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Craig Smith (Madison LaFollette)-1 A Total: 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Seth Soley (Eau Claire Memorial)-None Total: None
F-Daniel Olszewski (Madison Capitols was Janesville H.S.)-None Total: None
F-Matt Thurber (Omaha Lancers, Committed to UW)-1 A, 1.3 Pim Total: 1 G, 1 A, 4.3 Pim
F-Keegan Meuer (Madison Capitols was Madison Memorial)-2 A, 1.3 Pim Total: 3 A, 3 Pim
F-Patrick Johnson (Madison Capitols was Madison Memorial)-1.3 Pim
D-AJ Sturges (USNTDP, Committed to Michigan State)-1.3 Pim Total: 1.3 Pim
F-Ryan Schnell (USNTDP, Potential UW Recruit)-1 A Total: 1 A
F-Brett Bruneteau (Omaha Lancers, Potential UW Recruit)-3 Pim Total: 4.3 Pim
D-Ryan McDonagh (Cretin-Derham H.S. MN, Committed to UW)-1 A, 1.3 Pim Total: 1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Brennan Vargas (USNTDP, Potential UW Recruit)-2 A Total: 3 A, 1.3 Pim

Monday, July 10, 2006

Brock Montpetit at Junior Chowder Cup

Brock Montpetit, who recently committed to UW, got comfortable with some of his future Shattuck St. Mary's teammates last week while playing on Team Minnesota at the Junior Chowder Cup. Brock finished with 2 goals and 2 assists for 4 points in 3 games. Also on the team was Matt Bruneteau, who is Brett Bruneteau's brother.

Mike Eaves believes Joe Pavelski will Turn Pro

The Wisconsin State Journal has an article this morning indicating that Joe Pavelski is getting a great offer from the San Jose Sharks considering where he was picked in the draft, and Mike Eaves expects him to turn pro because of the size of the offer. The article goes on to say that at this point the Badgers will likely not be able to recruit someone for the coming season with Pavelski's scholarship money that will be available.

Jack Skille Leads all Scorers at Blackhawk Prospects Camp

Jack Skille currently leads all scorers at the Blackhawk Prospect Camp.

Sunday, July 09, 2006

Badger Players at Blackhawks Prospect Camp

Jake Dowell, Adam Burish and Jack Skille are all participating in the Chicago Blackhawks Prospect Camp. All three have held their own through the first two days with Skille being named as a standout player Thursday, and Dowell being named a standout player on Friday. Dowell even threw down the gloves on Friday.

There is also a video interview with Jack Skille and Blackhawk Skating Coach Dan Janssen from the Prospect Camp.

Thanks to 60 min. for pointing out these links.

Players with Wisconsin Ties at the USA Hockey Boys Select 17 Camp

The following players with Wisconsin ties are at the Select 17 Camp, and here are their first day stats:

G-Michael Johnson (Madison Capitols)-23 minutes, saved 13 of 15, .867 sv. percentage, 2 gaa
D-Blake Kessel (Traverse City-NAHL, was Madison Capitols)-None
F-Craig Smith (Madison LaFollette)-1.3 Pim
F-Seth Soley (Eau Claire Memorial)-None
F-Daniel Olszewski (Madison Capitols was Janesville H.S.)-None
F-Matt Thurber (Omaha Lancers, Committed to UW)-1 G, 3 Pim
F-Keegan Meuer (Madison Capitols was Madison Memorial)-1 A, 1.3 Pim
F-Patrick Johnson (Madison Capitols was Madison Memorial)-1.3 Pim
D-AJ Sturges (USNTDP, Committed to Michigan State)-None
F-Ryan Schnell (USNTDP, Potential UW Recruit)-None
F-Brett Bruneteau (Omaha Lancers, Potential UW Recruit)-1.3 Pim
D-Ryan McDonagh (Cretin-Derham H.S. MN, Committed to UW)-None
F-Brennan Vargas (USNTDP, Potential UW Recruit)-1 A, 1.3 Pim

Ryan McDonagh Verbal to UW in Jeopardy?

The rumor has been circulating for a while that defenseman Ryan McDonagh, who has committed to UW for 2008, may be reconsidering his verbal. Supposedly he is considering playing for Minnesota instead. We'll have to see how this all unfolds, but when word gets around that a player is considering breaking their verbal commitment, it seems that it usually happens.

UW Men's Hockey Players-One Likely to Return, One Likely to Leave

It looks as though Brian Elliott is likely to remain a Badger next season, while it looks like Joe Pavelski may be leaving the fold.

Guess Who's Back...Back Again....

No, it's not Slim Shady, it's DPlaya. I just got back from what was the least relaxing excuse for a vacation I have ever been on. Two years in a row now my Summer escape to the North woods has sucked...Last year illness to our then 1-year old forced an early end to our vacation when we packed up at 2 AM to get back home where we could find an open pharmacy/medical attention. This year four separate plumbing problems at the cabin we were staying at really put a damper on things as it's a family-owned cabin and repairs had to be made on the spot...maybe we won't even try to have a Summer getaway next year!

I've started to catch up on all the happenings over the past 4 days and put up a couple of posts already. Looks like the games at the USA Hockey Boys Select 17 start the night of Sunday, July 9th, and the Girls Select 15/16 games start the night of Monday, July 10th. I'll have a breakdown of each day's point totals for all players with Wisconsin ties, as well as their cumulative numbers so stop back again soon.

Saturday, July 08, 2006

USHL 25 Man Rosters and Players with Wisconsin Ties

All of the USHL Teams 25 Man Rosters are finally out, and here are the players with Wisconsin ties on each team:

Omaha Lancers
Returning: F-Matt Thurber (Beaver Dam) and potential UW Recruit F-Brett Bruneteau
Incoming: G-Scott Gudmandson (2007 UW recruit) and F-Pat Kane (potential UW 2006 2nd semester recruit)
Not on Roster: D-Aaron Schmit (Grafton) was drafted by Omaha, but decided to return to Culver Academy for Senior year

Indiana Ice
Incoming: F-Brent Gwidt (Lakeland High School)
Not Returning: F-Kyle Lundey (Middleton) & F-Nathan Lawrence (Stoughton)

Green Bay Gamblers
Returning: D-Ryan Little (Fond du Lac), Mike Sislo (Superior)
Incoming: D-Derrick LaPoint (Eau Claire North), F-Justin Cseter (Menomonie) acquired in trade with Sioux City, F-Cole Holmes (University School) via tryout and G-Nick Graves (Green Bay Jr. Gamblers) via tryout

Sioux Falls Stampede
Returning: F-Patrick Tiesling (Rhinelander...Marquette Electricians), F-Jacob Drewiske (Hudson)
Incoming: F-David Solway(Green Bay...Santa Fe Roadrunners of NAHL and Green Bay Jr. Gamblers previously), D Sam Zabkowicz (Greendale...Texarkana of NAHL and Culver Academy previously)

Lincoln Stars
Incoming: Ross Henry (Franklin...Team Illinois)
Not on roster: Travis Erstad who will be a Senior at Stevens Point H.S. and was drafted by the Stars

Waterloo Blackhawks
Returning: F-Andy Bohmbach (Hudson)
Incoming: F-Josh Turnbull (Hayward, WI...played for Duluth East last season...UW recruit for 2007 or 2008

Chicago Steel
Incoming: F-Nathan Lawrence (Stoughton)...played for Indiana Ice last season

Columbus Blue Jackets
Not on Roster: F-Zach Henry (Franklin...Team Illinois) was drafted by Columbus

Tri-City Storm
Returning: F-Sean Wiles (Beloit...Green Bay Jr. Gamblers)
Incoming: D-Kyle Ensign (New Richmond...UNO Recruit)

Sioux City Musketeers
No Wisconsin Players

Cedar Rapids RoughRiders
Returning: F-Ian Slater (from Florida but played with Capitols)

Mark Johnson Named Women's National Team Coach

Mark Johnson has been named the Women's National Team Head Coach for the 2007 World Championships being held in Manitoba.

Wednesday, July 05, 2006

Vacation Time

I'm packing up the DPlaya family and heading for the Northwoods of Wisconsin through the coming weekend. I'll be back with posts on players with Wisconsin ties at the USA Hockey Boys Select 17 and the Girls Select 15/16 as they both begin on July 8th. Hopefully the USHL and/or it's teams will also release their 25-man rosters by then as well so I can break that down upon my return. So far, only Omaha has done so.

Tuesday, July 04, 2006

Nigel Williams Thoughts & Interview from Hockey's Future

Hockey's Future has a new article discussing the Colorado Avalanche's draft, including the fact that UW recruit Nigel Williams slipped all the way to them at pick #51 in the second round. Nigel's thoughts from the article on slipping in the draft and how it will drive him to work harder than ever:

“I’m not really worried about where I get drafted," he said that day. "This next couple of years I am going to prove myself, this has nothing to do with how somebody’s going to do in the NHL or anything like that. If anything, it’s driving me right now, it’s going to drive me to be a better player. When I'm in the weight room gritting my teeth I’m going to know why. First round, screw that, I am going to grit down harder, I’m going to get an extra squat in there. So I think, if anything, it’s helping me.”

Sounds like UW has an ultra-talented pissed off 6'4 226 pound defenseman for next season.....

Players with Wisconsin Ties & the Sioux Falls Stampede

The Sioux Falls Stampede have not released their 25-man roster yet, but I did find a list of players online that made the All-Star Game of their tryout. Wisconsin Returnee Jacob Drewiske played, and Patrick Tiesling would have played except he had to go to his graduation. Other Wisconsin players trying to make the team are draftees David Solway and Sam Zabkowicz, and both are listed as playing in the All-Star Game. Here's the complete list:

"All Star" players
Defense
Jake Bauer
Kristof Reinthaler
Jared Hummel
Zach Hansen
Zach Redmond
Chris Huxley
Sam Zabkowicz
Stu Bickel
Channing Boe
Brandon Graffunder
Kent Wittman
Jay Fifield

Left Wing
Ryan Guentzel
David Solway
Jordy Christian
Kyle Mattson
Josh Brodeen
Nick Grasso
Jake Drewiske
Jake Hansen
Michael Vitale
Trevor Doden

Center
Erik Peterson
Nick Dineen
Patrick Divjak
Joey Miller
Stephan Novotny
Jon Tibaudo
Taylor Matson
Drew Fisher
Chris Meyers
Caleb Harrison

Right Wing
Jay Barriball
Joe Smith
Corey Tropp
Jake Hansen
John Paul Martignetti

Goal
Jake Kremer
Eric Hartzell
Jay Clark
Ross Tashjian

***Notes: Matt Lundin (G) not on All Star rosters, and has already made the team. Patrick Tiesling (LW) not on All Star rosters as he left Saturday morning for graduation.

Monday, July 03, 2006

UW Interested in Colin Moore?

I noticed on the UNH Hockey Recruiting website that Colin Moore is reportedly being recruited by UNH as well as Wisconsin and others for 2008-2009. Colin is a right wing that is assumed to be playing with the USNTDP U-17 squad this season. I also noticed for the first time that the UNH Hockey Recruiting website shares a web address with Chris Heisenberg's Recruiting website, meaning what is posted is pretty likely to be credible if Chris is the one keeping that site up to date.

Phoenix Force Before and After Rosters Announced

The Phoenix Force Before and After Team is based out of the Milwaukee area, and has announced their rosters for both their U16 and U18 teams.

From the Madison Metro Lynx to the Madison Memorial Spartans

Head Coach of the first year Madison Metro Lynx girls high school hockey team, Jon Spencer, has been named as the new boys high school hockey coach at Madison Memorial to succeed Vic Levine, who recently announced his retirement.

Sunday, July 02, 2006

Players with Wisconsin Ties & the Omaha Lancers 25-Man Roster

All USHL teams had to trim their roster to 25 players by July 1st, and the Omaha Lancers are the first to release their roster. Included are future Badgers Matt Thurber (2008-09), who played for the Lancers last season, as well as future goaltender Scott Gudmandson (2007-08), who played last season with the Drayton Valley Thunder of the AJHL. There are also a couple of players the Badgers are known to be recruiting on Omaha's 25-man roster, and they include Patrick Kane (2nd semester of 2006-07) who played with the USNTDP last season, as well as Brett Bruneteau (2007-08) who played with the Lancers last season. One player missing from the roster of the Lancers is defenseman Aaron Schmit of Grafton, WI who played for Culver Academy last season. Aaron is going to be a Senior this year, and was taken 154th overall by Omaha.

The Lancers look to have a pretty good roster if they are able to get all of the upper-level players currently on their roster to Omaha for the start of the season.

Saturday, July 01, 2006

Brent Gwidt Update

Wisconsin Prep Hockey has an update on forward Brent Gwidt. Brent recently graduated from Lakeland High School, was tendered by Wichita Falls in the NAHL, drafted by Indiana in the USHL, and drafted in the sixth round by the Washington Capitols in the NHL draft. He is also hearing from major Division 1 schools in regards to potential scholarship offers.

Final Day of the Boys Select 16 Camp

Stats for each player on the final day at the Boys USA Hockey Select 16 Camp are listed, then totals for the camp:

D Ross Henry Gold-1 P Totals: 1 G, 3 A, 6 P
D Taylor Kuypers Maroon-2 P Totals: 2 A, 7 P
F Brock Montpetit Maroon-None Totals: 1 G, 1 A, 5 P
F Brett Bower Green-1 A, 3 P Totals: 4 A, 5 P
F Alex Van Campen Gold-None Totals: 2 G, 1 A, 2 P
F Nate Condon Grey-1 P Totals: 1 G, 3 A, 3 P
F Andy Singerhouse Red-1 A, 1 P Totals: 2 A, 4 P
F Jeff Grignon Black-1 P Totals: 1 A, 5 P
D Nick Pryor Gold-2 A, 1 P Totals: 3 G, 4A, 8 P

Nick Pryor ends the camp tied for the lead in penalties, tied in the lead for points by defensemen, and tied for third overall in points.

Forward Jordan Schroeder of Prior Lake, Minnesota, who has reportedly been offered scholarships to the University of Wisconsin and U of Minnesota, finished the camp with 4 goals, 3 assists and 5 penalties. He finished the camp tied for third in scoring. Jordan is a 2009 recruit and will reportedly play for the United States National Team Development Program next season.