The Monday Morning Goalie

Welcome inside the crease! This morning we close the book on a nostalgic weekend and set the table for a very busy week ahead. Let's go...

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The 2010 CFL schedule was released this morning. It can be found here:
http://www.cfl.ca/schedule/year/2010/time_zone/0

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It's hard to describe the feeling of pride which was on display in the Pats alumni dressing room following Regina's 7-4 win over the Warriors alumni Saturday afternoon in the Crushed Can. The summary from the alumni game is in a few posts below from Saturday.

Here are some hilarious quotes from the weekend:

- "It was too rough for him. We scared him off!" - Doug Trapp on why Theoren Fleury didn't come back to play again after the 2008 T.C. Clash.

- "Warmup's 18 minutes long but you don't have to stay out there for the whole 18 minutes." - Regina coach Al Dumba in his pregame speech.

- "Sillinger and I both have titanium hips. I hope if we skate beside each other, we don't stick together like magnets!" - Linesman Dallas Davison.

- "Are you the team bus driver?" - A security guard to Mitchell Blair under the stands in the Civic Centre.

- "I wouldn't miss this for the world." - Rider legend Roger Aldag before the game.

- "Kevin Gallant will be happy we lost. I read your blog." - Warriors forward Troy Edwards.

- "My father-in-law told me the day I retired in 1992 that I'll never be able to thrill a crowd again. I guess he was wrong." - Troy Volhoffer.

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Nice touch by the Regina Pats to allow the alumni players to keep their game-worn Pats jerseys with their name and number on the back.

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The SaskTel Max Mobile crew was in Moose Jaw recording the Trans Canada Clash for broadcast. Viewers can watch the game starting Wednesday on SaskTel Max Local on Demand Channel 48. Mitchell Blair along with Dustin Dion from Country 100FM have the call.

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Mitchell Blair is getting lots of pub on the MMG today! One more thing: his blog hatchet job on the city of Saskatoon for not supporting the Blades last week drew WHL-wide attention. He was criticized mightily by Saskatonians, but applauded by everybody else.

Remarkably, CKOM/CJME sports director Wray Morrison (of Saskatoon) laid the boots to the Bridge City in his weekend blog as well. Here's a snippet:

"There are nights when the Pats don't get the support they deserve, but it is clear that Regina has more pride in its team than Saskatoon does. The city clearly embarrassed itself Wednesday on national television when fewer than 4,000 fans attended the Blades/Warriors game at Credit Union Centre."

Ding, Ding! Round 2 is now underway....

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Speaking of THEM, why doesn't Z99 have C.C. in their TV ads, rather than just Lorie? I know, I know. None of my business.

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A quick shout-out to Regina Pats Winnipeg-area scout Mark Romas for shedding a remarkable 85 lbs! It was doctor's orders, and he did it ALL by eating right. Way to go Romeo! Keep the hammer down.

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The Pats suffered a crucial loss in Moose Jaw, 4-1 Saturday night, capping their January at 7-2-1. They dropped 8 points out of a playoff spot meaning no matter how much they win, they simply can't seem to gain ground. Some pundits have predicted the Pats need to go 16-4 over their final 20 games to make the playoffs.

Is anybody out there good at math? It would be great to have someone determine the Pats' magic number to clinch (or miss) the playoffs so we have an idea of what's needed.

Although 16-4 is a good reference point. Four more losses, and I can start looking at booking my trip to Las Vegas in late March. If this team misses the playoffs for a second straight year, it'll be CATASTROPHIC. And that's not an exaggeration.

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Pats trainer Greg Mayer says I'm out to lunch for calling Patrice Cormier an idiot for A) his disgusting elbow on Michael Tam and B) his appeal of the suspension. Mayer will have us know that Cormier "really is a nice guy off the ice."

Big deal! They say Ted Bundy was a really nice guy too. Cormier isn't a serial killer, but doing good doesn't cancel out doing wrong. He should accept his suspension and shut his yap.

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Wendel Clark will be in Regina on Thursday to promote his book Wendel Clark; My Life In Hockey. Stephen LaRose did a nice feature on Wendel in the current edition of The Prairie Dog. Yes I read the P.D.! It's good to know what the enemy is doing!

And Wendel Clark was a pure joy to watch in the WHL and NHL.

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A lot of Rider fans have asked my thoughts on Kent Austin switching teams AGAIN. His newest post at Cornell University makes it four teams in five seasons (Argos, Riders, Ole Miss, Cornell).

People think Kent keeps abandoning teams. Guess what? HE'S WINNING CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR THEM! Count them: a Grey Cup in Saskatchewan and two Cotton Bowl titles in Oxford, Mississippi.

The man's a one-man dynasty! And to me, he can do whatever he wants and what he feels is best for his family.

I've heard he was feuding with Ole Miss head coach Houston Nutt almost from day one and I've ALSO heard he's approached Paul Lapolice to be the offensive coordinator for Cornell.

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Some Rider fans wanted to tar and feather Paul Lapolice during the 2009 Rider season. However Kent Austin wants to hire him to run his offense.

Donkeys.

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The Montreal Alouettes announced the signing of centre Bryan Chiu to a one-plus-one deal this morning. Really, Chiu was the last "big-name" left on the free agent market OUTSIDE of Saskatchewan. Still slated to become free agents in two weeks are names like Stevie Baggs, Chris Szarka and Wes Cates.

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The Edmonton Eskimos advertised their play-by-play job on a radio industry website last week. That's interesting because they already have a great list of candidates to replace Bryan Hall, which includes two WHL play-by-play men, a CIS football playcaller and an Edmonton TV personality.

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CFL players were all abuzz Friday night on Twitter with "huge news" regarding the Stampeders.

After a little digging, I found out it was that Calgary offensive coordinator George Cortez was leaving to join the Buffalo Bills, but was asked to keep it quiet. Kudos to the Calgary Herald's Allen Cameron for breaking the story online that night.

And the NFL continues to raid the CFL for coaches and players. I know fans are getting frustrated but in the end it's a good thing. With no NFL Europe or Arena League, we're getting all the best players and coaches come to the CFL.

Albeit temporarily.

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You know it's a slow news week when the contraction extension of the Stampeders' defensive coordinator gets such nationwide headlines.

Nothing against Chris Jones but it was astounding to see the news of his extension scrawled across the ticker of every sports networks, and headlined in every sports page coast to coast.

That's good though. It can't be all hockey all the time on these networks this time of year.

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Excited for Super Bowl? I can't wait. There will be lots of Super Bowl content in the Friday observations column but here's something that caught my eye in the USA Today. The NFL will spend $6-million on security for Super Bowl this week. Here's an excerpt from the article:

"We're very mindful of the world that we live in," the NFL's vice president of security, Milt Ahlerich, said in a telephone interview from Florida.

"We put our fate and our protection in the hands of that person on the front lines — those people that are protecting our gates — and being sure that someone who comes through doesn't have anything on them," Ahlerich said.

Ahlerich told The Associated Press that five to 10 bomb threats are phoned in during each NFL regular season — roughly one every other week — but they amount to nothing. Still, he called "improvised explosive devices" — a car bomb or pipe bomb, for example — the biggest concern as thousands of people from dozens of federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, local police and two private security firms prepare for the Super Bowl.

Other primary concerns, he said, include "the active shooter scenario, the chemical agent or biological agent scenario."

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Sports media watchdog/antagonist William Houston is getting even more out to lunch. His column last week where he blasted Super Bowl play-by-play man Jim Nantz of CBS for a conflict of interest was the biggest reach I've seen in years.

Houston criticized Nantz for being in a TV commercial with Peyton Manning since Nantz will call the game and Manning will play in it. WEAK!

Even Houston's old Globe & Mail co-worker Stephen Brunt thought it was over the line, writing in to the comments section "Lighten up Houston. There's no conflict of interest here, nor is there a Santa Claus."

Try again William.

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A huge thank you to the Press Box Sports Bar for hosting C and I for a great night out Thursday. It included supper and drinks at the PBSB, then a limo bus tour around the city before the Motley Crue concert.

Cameras weren't allowed in the limo. I bet Patrick Kane and the Blackhawks wish that was the rule in Vancouver limos! Anyways it was a great time but it wasn't nearly as great as what went on in Tommy Lee's "Playhouse" downstairs in the Brandt Centre that night (or so I'm told).

That room is the normal media/VIP lounge at Pats games. I hope lounge host Gerry Wood got out the Lysol and what other cleaning materials were needed before Friday night's Pats-Warriors game.

And to those who were passing around the bottle of Jaggermeister with Tommy, you DO know what he's carrying, RIGHT?

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Take your buddies or wife/and or kids to Edmonton in March to catch the Oilers in a doubleheader weekend against the Sharks and Red Wings! Maybe your buddy IS your wife. Also, get a day of shopping at West Edmonton Mall all for one great price.

Click on the MAJOR LEAGUE TOURS banner at the top left of this page to secure your seats on the bus!

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The Pats host Kootenay tonight at 7:00 on 620 CKRM. We'll join the pregame show right after Sportsline with Hadesbeck and Lynch at 6:00 on 620. They'll be going wall-to-wall with Riders talk.

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HAVE A GREAT WEEK AND THANKS FOR STOPPING BY!
RP

Argos-Esks To Meet In Moncton

The Toronto Argonauts and Edmonton Eskimos will make history together.

They will clash in the first ever Canadian Football League regular season game in Atlantic Canada on Sept. 26 in Moncton. It will be a 2 p.m. kickoff at the new Stade Moncton 2010 Stadium, which will have a 20,000 capacity for this game.

The game will be officially known as Touchdown Atlantic. Fans chose that name in a contest organized by the Moncton Times & Transcript, which received more than 3,000 ballots from readers.

(Courtesy Moncton Times & Transcript)

Milanovich stays in Montreal

Montreal, Jan. 31, 2010 - Montreal Alouettes' Vice President and General Manager Jim Popp is pleased to announce that Offensive Coordinator, Quarterbacks Coach & Assistant Head Coach Scott Milanovich will be back with the Alouettes in 2010.

"I am excited to announce that I am staying with the Montreal Alouettes," Scott Milanovich said. "I want to thank Bob Wetenhall, Larry Smith, Jim Popp, and Marc Trestman for continuing to treat me like a member of their family."

"We are thrilled with Scott's decision to stay in our family," Jim Popp said. "With all the enthusiasm coming from our 2009 championship, we're looking forward to starting the 2010 season!"

Sunday Sports

BLOCKBUSTER! The Calgary Flames have traded Dion Phaneuf to the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The Flames also sent forward Fredrik Sjostrom and defenceman Keith Aulie (Rouleau product) to Toronto for 4 players -- Matt Stajan, Niklas Hagman, Ian White and Jamal Mayers.

The Fan 590 in Toronto is also reporting the Leafs have sent goalie Vesa Toskala to Anaheim for J-S Giguere and a first round draft pick.

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The Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings meet this afternoon for the first time since June when the Pens beat the Wings in the seventh and deciding game of the Stanley Cup final. It's one of six games on today's NHL schedule. No Canadian teams are in action.

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The Regina Pats were denied a fourth straight win when they lost 4-1 in Moose Jaw Saturday night. Earlier in the day, the Pats alumni beat the Warriors Alumni 7-4. Summaries for both games are in the posts below.

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Some of the NFL's top stars will be on the field tonight in Miami for the Pro Bowl. This marks the first year that the league's all-star game will be played prior to the Super Bowl, which will be contested next weekend by the Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints.

One player who won't be suiting up tonight is Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie, who was dismissed from the NFC team for unexcused absences.

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The Toronto Raptors look for a fifth straight win at the Air Canada Centre as they open a home-and-home series with the Indiana Pacers. Toronto is coming off a 106-104 road win over New York on Thursday which was their 12th straight game with at least 100 points, extending a franchise record. It's one of nine games on the hardwood.

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Action is underway this morning at the Scotties Tournament oo Hearts in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. PEI's Kathy O'Rourke enters the third draw atop the leaderboard after winning twice in yesterday's opening day of play. One of those victories was against Saskatchewan's Amber Holland in Draw 1.

Defending champion Jennifer Jones of Winnipeg is among six teams at 1-and-0. She plays Holland (0-1) this afternoon at 2:00 on TSN.

Warriors 4 Pats 1

MOOSE JAW -- The Moose Jaw Warriors salvaged the TransCanada Clash weekend with a 4-1 victory over the Regina Pats in a soldout Crushed Can Saturday night. The Pats won the opener to the home-and-home series 3-2 Friday night, and took the alumni game 7-4 Saturday afternoon but the Warriors got the last laugh in a critical game.

Jason Bast scored the only goal of the first period to give Moose Jaw a 1-0 lead. The Pats' Carter Ashton tied it with his 20th of the season in the second period to tie it at 1-1 however Bast struck again to restore the one goal lead and Brendan Rowinski also potted to give the Tribe a 3-1 lead going to the third.

The Pats peppered Warrior goalie Jeff Bosch, a former Pat, all game, but couldn't beat the Martensville product. Thomas Frazee scored an empty-netter with 45 seconds left to seal the win.

Game over: Moose Jaw 4 Regina 1.

The game lacked the intensity and grit of Friday night's fight-filled clash in the Brandt Centre, but it featured plenty of end-to-end action. The soldout atmosphere added to that, and the Warriors fed off it.

MOLSON 3-STARS: 1) Bast 2) Bosch 3) McIlrath. Taylor Toyota Hardest Working Pat: Carter Ashton.

STATS: The Pats outshot the Warriors 37-32 ... Regina was 0/4 on the powerplay and 2/2 on the penalty kill ... The Warriors are 6-1 against the Pats this season ... The Pats drop to 23-25-3-1 and saw their win streak get snapped at three ... The Warriors improve to 26-18-4-3.

UP NEXT: The Pats host the Kootenay Ice Monday night in a rescheduled game at 7:00 pm on 620 CKRM (Press Box Sports Bar Pregame Show at 6:35 pm).

Pats 7 Warriors 4

(Pictured from left standing: N. Markwart, A. Dumba, J. Miner, M. Smith, D. Trapp, F. Kovacs, B. Coates, K. Markwart, Chad Wylchinski, K. Deck, K. Wickenheiser, T. Volhoffer, J. Heward, M. Simpson.
Kneeling: R. Houk, G. Wappel, C. Andersen, M. Sillinger, M. Kirby, B. Varga, S. Fleming)

MOOSE JAW -- Brian Varga scored the winning goal for the Regina Pats alumni in a 7-4 triumph over the Moose Jaw Warriors alumni in TransCanada Clash III in Moose Jaw. The victory improved the Pats' record to 3-0 all-time in alumni contests between junior hockey's top rivals.

The paid attendance was 2578 in the Crushed Can and the game was tied 2-2 after the opening period and the Pats led 5-4 after forty minutes. Nevin Markwart was named the game MVP scoring twice for Regina, while Brandon Coates, Kurt Wickenheiser, Jamie Heward and Mike Kirby added singles. Sean Fleming got the win in goal, while Rod Houk stopped 17 of 19 Warrior shots in the first 30 minutes of action.

Scoring for the Warriors were Darryl Laplante, Rob Harvey, Jeff Budai and Troy Edwards. TransCanada Clash IV will be next year in Regina's Brandt Centre.

TransCanada Clash Warmups

Houkamania is running wild in the Crushed Can today!

Al Dumba's Pregame Speech

Get'n Ready

Fans Congregate

Crushed Can Lobby

Heward, Kovacs & Miner

Pats 3 Warriors 2

REGINA -- Now that's Pats hockey! Before a season-high crowd of 6,510 fans, the Queen City Kids won their third straight game, knocking off the rival Moose Jaw Warriors 3-2 Friday night in the Brandt Centre. It was old time Pats-Warriors hockey with three fights, hard hits, and it went right down to the wire but the Pats were able eak out the tight victory in the end.

Regina's Cody Carlson opened the scoring at the 3:49 mark of the first period but Moose Jaw's Thomas Frazee tied it on the powerplay at 5:31. Andrew Reider's first goal of the season made it 2-1 Regina with 7:42 remaining in the opening period. Regina outshot the Warriors 31-9 in the opening frame, but Moose Jaw goalie Brendan Glover was sensational keeping it a one goal margin.

The Warriors turned the tables in the second, outshooting the Pats 13-8 but there was no scoring in that period. Moose Jaw tied it up at 2-2 with 4:10 to go in the third on an unassisted goal by captain Jason Bast. We looked headed to overtime, but Pats veteran Carter Ashton scored the eventual game-winner with 1:34 left in regulation time. The goal was set up by Jordan Weal and Mitch McColm.

Game over: Regina 3 Moose Jaw 2.

STATS: The Pats outshot the Warriors 47-31 ... Regina was 0/7 on the powerplay and 4/5 killing penalties ... Pats improve to 23-24-3-1, and temporarily five points back of P.A. for the final playoff spot in the East Conference ... The Raiders were at Kootenay Friday night ... It was Regina's first win of the year against Moose Jaw in six opportunities.

MOLSON 3-STARS: 1) Glover 2) Ketlo 3) Ashton. Taylor Toyota Hardest Working Pat: Ketlo.

UP NEXT: The Pats visit the Warriors Saturday night at 7:00 on 620 CKRM (Press Box Sports Bar Pregame Show at 6:35pm) ... The TransCanada Clash III goes at 1:30 Saturday in Moose Jaw between Pats and Warriors alumni ... Country 100.7 FM in Moose Jaw has the broadcast.

Stamps To Lose Cortez

From the Calgary Herald:

It's looking like the Calgary Stampeders will need a new offensive coordinator for the 2010 Canadian Football League season.

It's believed George Cortez is on the verge of accepting an offer to join the Buffalo Bills' coaching staff as the team's quarterbacks coach.

Cortez, a 19-year CFL coaching veteran, who spent the past four seasons with the Stamps, was also mentioned as a candidate for head coaching jobs in Toronto and Winnipeg this off-season, but the Buffalo job, under new head coach Chan Gailey, would be too tempting to pass up.

Cortez, who turns 59 next month, was in his third stint with the Stampeders, and also held the title of associate head coach under head coach and general manager John Hufnagel.

2010 CFL Schedule To Be Released Monday

Check back here Monday for the complete 2010 Canadian Football League schedule. We already know the Riders will open their season at home, Thursday July 1 at 5:00 against the Montreal Alouettes.

CFL: TICATS CUT SETTA

Hamilton, Ontario- The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced today that the team has released import kicker/punter Nick Setta. 

"Nick was a respected member of this team and community as well as a hard worker both on and off the field.  We would like to thank him for his contributions and wish him the best in the future," said Head Coach Marcel Bellefeuille. 

TransCanada Clash Alumni Rosters

REGINA PATS

#33 – Shaun Fleming – Goaltender – The Regina native spent parts of two seasons with the Regina Pats after starting his WHL career with the Spokane Chiefs. He was with the Pats from 1998-2000.

#1 – Rod Houk – Goaltender – A native of Regina, played in 117 games between the pipes for the Regina Pats in the 1987-88 and the 1988-89 seasons. Houk was a Minnesota North Stars pick in the 1990 NHL Supplemental Draft. From there he went on to the University of Regina, before embarking on a 5 year pro career.

#2 – Gord Wappel – Defence – Wappel is a native of Regina and former Captain of the blue and white. He played 4 seasons from 1974 to 1978 and was a 5th round pick of the Atlanta Flames in the 1978 NHL Amateur Draft before embarking on a 5 year pro career.

#2 – Chad Wilchynski – Defence – Wilchynski is a Regina native that played parts of 4 seasons with the Regina Pats from 1993 to 1997 before finishing his career with the Medicine Hat Tigers and Kelowna Rockets. He was a 5th round pick of the Detroit Red Wings in the 1995 NHL Entry Draft and played 7 seasons of pro hockey.

#3 John Miner – Defence – Miner is originally from Moose Jaw and spent 4 seasons with the Regina Pats from 1981 to 1985. He helped lead the Pats to the WHL final in 1984 where he was 4th in playoff scoring with 34 points in 23 games. Miner was drafted in the 11th round of the 1983 NHL Entry Draft before embarking on a long pro career in both North America and Europe.

#4 – Kyle Deck – Defenceman – From Sedley, Saskatchewan, he was a 5 year member of the blue and white, playing from 2002-03 season to the 2006-07 season. He is a former captain of the Regina Pats, the made stops with the University of Regina and 2 seasons of pro hockey.

#7 – Chris Anderson – Forward - From Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Chris Anderson played parts of four seasons with the Tri-City Americans before being sent to the Regina Pats half way through the 1998-99 season. He spent his 20 year old season with the blue and white in 1999-2000

#10 – Doug Trapp – Forward - From Balcarres, Saskatchewan, Doug Trap played three seasons with the Regina Pats from 1982-83 to 1984-85 accumulating 252 points. He was a second overall pick of the Buffalo Sabres in 1984 and played 2 seasons with the Rochester Americans.

#11 – Nevin Markwart – Forward - From Toronto, Ontario, Nevin Markwart played 2 seasons with the Regina Pats in 1981-82 and 82-83. He was a 1st round pick of the Boston Bruins in 1983 and spent 9 seasons with the Bruins and Calgary Flames.

#13 – Brandon Coates – Left Wing – Coates is a Regina native that played with the blue and white for two seasons in 1992-93 and 1993-94 after beginning his WHL career with the Portland Winter Hawks. After his junior career was done, Coates played three seasons of pro hockey.

#15 – Mike Kirby – Forward - A native of Regina, Mike Kirby spent parts of three seasons from 1988-89 to 1990-91 with the Regina Pats, before heading to the Lethbridge Hurricanes part way through the 90-91 season.

#16 – Mike Sillinger – Centre - A native of Regina, Mike Sillinger was part of the famous pup line with two other 16 year olds in Frank Kovacs and Jamie Heward. He was drafted in the first round of the 1989 NHL Entry Draft by the Detroit Red Wings before embarking on an 18 year NHL career.

#18 – Kelly Markwart – Defenceman - Played parts of 4 seasons with the blue and white beginning in 1987-1991 before finishing his WHL career with the Saskatoon Blades. He went on to play with the University of Regina.

#19 – Jamie Heward – Right Wing/Defenceman – A native of Regina, Jamie Heward was a part of the famous pup line with two other 16 year olds in Mike Sillinger and Frank Kovacs. He moved to defence after the 1987-88 season. Heward was a 1st round pick of the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 1989 NHL Entry Draft before embarking on a 18 year pro career.

#19 – Brian Varga – Forward – Varga is a Regina native that played three full seasons with the Pats from 1978-1981 rolling up 259 points, including a league leading 160 in the 1980-81 season for a team that lost in the Eastern Conference finals. He went on to have a career in pro hockey in Europe.

#24 – Frank Kovacs – Left Wing – A native of Regina, Frank Kovacs was a part of the famous pup line with two other 16 year old in Mike Sillinger and Jamie Heward. He is the all-time Pats leader in career games played with 352. Kovacs was a 4th round pick of the Minnesota North Stars in the 1990 NHL Entry Draft, and from there had an 8 year pro career in both North America and Europe.

#25 – Kurt Wickenheiser – Left Wing – Wickenheiser is a Regina native that played 4 seasons for the Pats from 1981 to 1985 before finishing his WHL career with the Lethbridge Broncos. After his WHL career, he played parts of 13 seasons in pro hockey in both North America and Europe.

#27 – Troy Vollhoffer – Right Wing – Vollhoffer is a Regina native that began his WHL career with the Regina Pats in 1982-83 before stops in Winnipeg, New West Minster and Saskatoon. He went on to a 6 year pro career.

#37 – Martin Smith – Forward – Smith hails from North Battleford and played for the Pats in the 1989-90 season after stops in Seattle, Saskatoon, Brandon and Victoria. He went on to a 6 year pro career in both North America and Europe.

Al Dumba – Head Coach – Originally from Cupar, Dumba played 3 seasons with the Pats from 1973 to 1976, with his best season coming in the 75-76 season where he accumulated 103 points. In 1976, Dumba was an 8th round pick of the Washington Capitals in the NHL Amateur Draft and an 8th round pick of the Edmonton Oilers in the WHA Amateur Draft. After a 5 year playing career, Dumba also went on to be an assistant coach and then co-coach of the Regina Pats.

Mark “Torch” Simpson – Trainer – Beginning with the 1987-88 season, Torchy spent 10 seasons with the Regina Pats as both Equipment Manager and then Trainer. He turned his craft into his own business as he is owner of Torchy’s Sport Imaging and Embroidering.


MOOSE JAW WARRIORS

# 1 Scott Christison played one season with the Warriors in the 1990-1991 season.

# 34 Josh Lepp hails from Dalmeny, SK. Josh played two seasons with the Warriors in the 04-05 & 05-06 season. Lepp was part of the Warriors te+am during one of the most exciting times in franchise history as the team lost in the finals during the 05-06 season after finishing 1st in the Eastern Conference.

# 35 Glen Seymour played two seasons between the pipes for the Warriors. From Prince Rupert, BC. Glen was part of the 86-87 & 87-88 rosters. He was the starting goalie in 86/87, backing up Warrior greats Theo Fleury and Mike Keane. That very season would see a controversial Warriors loss to the Medicine Hat Tigers who would eventually go on to win the Memorial Cup.

#2 Scott Thomas’s career spanned four seasons beginning back in 1987. Scott banked 85 points in a Warriors uniform.

# 4 Travis Thiessen came to the tribe from North Battleford, SK. A defensemen who was drafted 3rd round by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the ’93 NHL Entry Draft, Thiessen scored 77 points in his two years with the Warriors beginning in 1990. Thiessen has enjoyed an extensive hockey career.

# 7 Kevin Masters began his WHL career with the Warriors and remained with the team for four consecutive seasons. Masters wracked up 146 points while donning the red, black and grey.

# 12 Rob Reimer is a four year Warrior veteran, beginning his stint with the tribe in ’87 and continuing on to a career in both the AHL and ECHL. Reimer scored an incredible 99 points in his 90-91 season. Rob banked 257 career points while in Moose Jaw. Rob is credited with scoring one of the most famous Warriors goals in Game 2 of the 4th overtime period vs. Swift Current to eventually lead the Tribe to a 3-0 sweep over the Broncos in 1991.

# 18 Brad Toporowski came to the Warriors from Spokane in 1992. Growing up in Paddockwood, SK. Brad played defense for the Warriors in 121 games. Brad went onto a career in the ECHL, WPHL and the WCHL.

# 20 Blair Atcheynum is Saskatchewan born. Blair played right wing for the Warriors for three seasons starting in ’86. Blair rolled in 138 points in just one season in 88-89. Blair holds the Warriors record for most goals in franchise history with 70 goals. Blair was named “Molson Player of the Year” in the Eastern Conference that same year. Blair was drafted to the Hartford Whalers in the 3rd round #52 overall in the ’89 NHL Entry Draft. Atcheynum’s NHL career included time with Nashville, Ottawa, St. Louis and Chicago.

#20 Scott Ducharmie began his Warriors career in 1991. Scott stayed with the team for four seasons. Scott laced up his skates for the tribe in over 150 WHL games. Ducharmie played along side Warrior greats such as Ryan Smyth and Curtis Brown.

#20 David Bararuk is a home town boy. Beginning his time with the Warriors at a young age as a stick boy, his warrior career spans over four seasons. David played in over 200 games with the team. He was drafted in the 5th round of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft to the Dallas Stars.

# 21 Darryl Laplante is a native of Calgary, AB. The centerman played 3 seasons with the Warriors in 94-94, 95-96 and 96-97. Laplante was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the 3rd round #58 overall of the ’95 NHL Entry Draft. Laplante’s hockey career continued right to the 03-04 season as he played in the AHL, IHL and ECHL.

# 22 Troy Edwards is from Raymore, SK. A left winger who played for the Warriors in their very first season in ’84 and continued right through until ’87. Troy played in over 230 games and is a Warriors Hall of Famer.

# 24 Jeremy Thompson played with several WHL teams before landing in Moose Jaw. Jeremy played with the Warriors in the 95-96 season. The right winger was born in Vernon, BC.

# 24 Jeff Budai began his Warriors career in 1991. In two seasons, Budai claimed 23 points in 69 games. Jeff is from Calgary, AB.

# 26 Grady Manson is a Manitoba product who played for four years in Moose Jaw. From 1992-1996, Grady claimed 210 points in WHL.

# 27 Lane Manson comes from Watrous, SK. The defensemen joined the team in 2001. Manson graced the crushed can for three years and wracked up a whopping 253 PIM in the 2003-2004 season alone. Manson was drafted to the Atlanta Thrashers in 2002 in the 4th round of the NHL Entry Draft.

# 27 Reed Low is Moose Jaw born. Reed wracked up an incredible 449 career penalty minutes in just 2 seasons. Low spent two seasons in Moose Jaw (95-96 & 96-97) and was drafted to the St. Louis Blues in the 7th round 177 overall in the 1996 NHL Entry Draft. Low played 5 years in the NHL as well as many years in the ECHL and AHL.

# 29 Milt Mastad came to the Warriors from Seattle in ‘93. This defensemen was selected #155 overall by the Boston Bruins in the 6th round of the ’93 NHL Entry Draft. Milt played in the AHL, IHL, UHL and ECHL.

# 55 Rob Harvey, an inductee to the Warriors & Legends Hall of Fame this past summer, spent four years as a Warriors commencing in 1986. Rob had one of his best seasons in ’89 when he scored over 100 points.


Behind the bench for the Warriors:
Derek Kletzel spent four seasons with the team beginning in 1988. Kletzel played in over 200 games for the Warriors. Derek continues to lend his support to the team through heading up the Warriors Alumni and also doing color commentating for Warriors home games.

Jeff Truitt is the Warriors current Director of Hockey Operations. Jeff Truitt has been involved in the Western Hockey League for 7 years. Three of those years, Jeff was the Head Coach of the Kelowna Rockets. Prior to his time in Kelowna, Jeff spent 2 years in Lethbridge. Last season Truitt coached in the AHL with the Springfield Falcons.

CFL: Big Lions News

(Vancouver) The BC Lions Football Club announced today that defensive lineman Brent Johnson has agreed to terms on a contract extension. In keeping with club policy, contract details were not released.

Johnson, who will enter his 10th season as a Lion, started all 18 regular season games last year notching six sacks and 39 defensive tackles.

“Brent is a veteran leader in our room as well on the field and I am very pleased to know his ability and experience will continue to be part of our team,” said Lions GM and head coach Wally Buono.

The club’s third-round selection in the 2000 Canadian Draft, Johnson has appeared in 150 career games for the Black and Orange and has been named a CFL All-Star three times (’08, ’06 and ’05). The Ohio State grad was also the league’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2006 and the Most Outstanding Canadian in 2006 and 2005.

“I’m very excited to remain part of the Lions’ plans,” said Johnson. “When you have an opportunity to spend your entire career with one team it makes your time there very special. Looking ahead to next season, I believe we still have a very strong core of veteran players and we’re going to be an extremely tough team to play against.”

The Lions also announced that linebacker Javy Glatt along with import offensive lineman Jason Jimenez have both been released by the club.

“Jason and Javy are quality individuals who deserve a great deal of credit for our past success. We wish them the very best,” said Buono.

Glatt originally joined the club in 2003 as the Lions’ second-round selection (15th overall) in the 2003 Canadian Draft. The UBC grad appeared in 117 games for the Lions over seven seasons amassing 362 tackles and nine interceptions. Glatt was a West Division All-Star in 2008.

“I would like to thank the BC Lions Football Club and its fans for the amazing opportunity to live out a dream for the past seven years. I have met so many incredible people along the way and have built relationships that will last a lifetime, and for that I am truly grateful,” said Glatt.

Jimenez was a free agent signing prior to the 2006 season and did not miss a start for the Leos over a four-year, 72-game career. Jason was a West Division and CFL All-Star in 2008.

Friday Rodservations

Get ready to travel back in time this weekend!

Regina Pats and Moose Jaw Warriors alumni are back in town for tomorrow's TransCanada Clash III at the Crushed Can in Moose Jaw at 1:30.

The teams have been practicing all week in anticipation of the game and if you haven't seen one of these games before, it TRULY is like going back 20 years and for those of my age group, it's like being a kid again.

I'm sure it's the same for the players. Take for instance this quote from former Pat Troy Volhoffer, who's come home from Nashville for the game:

"My first game with the Regina Pats was the most memorable experience in all of my hockey career; professional and everything. When I stepped onto that Agridome ice with Tony Vogel, Taylor Hall, Nevin Markwart and Jamie Reeve was in goal, it was the most amazing experience.

"It was such a buzz because finally I had achieved it. Montreal Canadiens? I didn't care about them. I wanted to be a Regina Pat as a kid. Having seen the 1974 Pats with Dennis Sobchuk and Clark Gillies, those guys were my inspiration."

Current Regina Pats coach Curtis Hunt has seen both sides of this rivalry, the best in junior hockey, having coached both teams. I asked him what makes it so special.

"It's big! It's so big! You know in Moose Jaw we sit quietly in town and get ready for it. The media's always around and you get into it if there's a little bit of pot-stirring by guys like you. But you always circled the Moose Jaw-Regina home-and-home series on the calender."

Unlike last year, we won't have the broadcast of TransCanada Clash III this time around. However you can tune into Country 100.7 FM for Rob Carnie's call.

----

The alumni weekend opens tonight with the Warriors at the Pats at 7:00pm on 620 CKRM, and then the alumni game is tomorrow at 1:30 at Moose Jaw, and the Pats visit the Warriors tomorrow night at 7:00.

Unfortunately, this rivalry ain't what it used to be. Why? I have my own ideas but I asked Curtis Hunt for his:

"Some of the disciplinary action, and it's understandable ... boy you've put me in a real tight spot here! There are two types of emotions when these teams get together, as a fan of the game and as an ex-player with those back-to-back games, with all the animosity, now you're penalized so badly it takes away from these series.

"You don't see many people get up and walk out when these games get rough, let's put it that way. The buildings in Regina and Moose Jaw get pretty loud when it does happen. But in today's game, as we prepare players for today's NHL, some of that role is removed. It's a game of speed and skill now and as a league that prides ourself in supplying the NHL and the AHL with quality talent, playing the old style would take us away from our current direction. I'm talking about the time when we had to have split warm-ups! ;)"

Will something break out tonight?? Probably not. But you can always hope!

----

I've extended an invitation to new Roughrider GM Brendan Taman to join me in the broadcast booth for tonight's game. He pretty much invited himself on Sportsline Monday night, and I was caught a little off guard. I mean c'mon, Roy Shivers and Eric Tillman (and for that matter Alan Ford) never asked to come to a Pats game! Brendan's welcome whenever he wants.

----

There was a one-year hiatus between alumni games. Man how the years fly by! Anyways, here are some photos from the last TransCanada Clash from two years ago in the Brandt Centre:
http://rodpedersen.blogspot.com/2008/02/transcanada-photos.htmlhttp://rodpedersen.blogspot.com/2008/02/some-photos-from-pats-dinner.html

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If you're not reading this blog's Comments section, you're missing out. It's a nice escape from reality.

----

TSN's Darren Dreger reports Patrice Cormier could be reinstated for the Memorial Cup. However all three CHL Commissioners would have to agree on it, making it highly unlikely.

Nothing surprises me in sports anymore however, and it COULD happen. Remember in the 1996 WHL playoffs when Lethargy coach/GM Bryan Maxwell was suspended an entire year for assaulting referee Brent Reiber? Maxie was reinstated for the 1997 Memorial Cup final which was a travesty. The hockey gods wouldn't rule in Lethbridge's favour however, as the Hurricanes lost the championship game.

How STUPID is this kid? Everybody in hockey, including the NHL, is condemning him. He may have ended his own CHL career and the Rouyn-Noranda franchise is on the verge of collapse if they don't go far in the playoffs. One stupid elbow could cost so many people so much!

What an idiot.

----

Glen Suitor as GM of the Roughriders?

Check out this snippet from a Vancouver Newspaper this week:

Glen Suitor was a candidate for the general manager's post with the Saskatchewan Roughriders but the pride of Sidney, B.C., opted to stay with TSN as Chris Cuthbert's play-by-play CFL game analyst.

Suitor was a defensive back with the Roughies for 11 seasons and remains the team's all-time interceptions leader (51). He's in his 15th year with TSN and does a bang-up job with regular guest visits on Team 1040 football segments with David Pratt.

"I was flattered the Riders considered me," Suitor says. "Maybe one day ... but the timing wasn't right."

Would you go for that Rider Nation? As yet I don't know if Suitor approached the Riders, or vice versa. But I hope to find out.

Suitor was on CJME's Sports Night with Jamie Nye the other night saying there's very few personnel types available out there for CFL GM jobs.

I always said if I had a son, I'd teach him to kick or long-snap and then have him learn how to evaluate players. He would then have a well-paying job for life.

----

Former Rider defensive coordinator Greg Marshall was teaching his son to long-snap when I got to know him during the 1999 season (my first full-time in the CFL). However the younger Marshall never opted for a career in football.

Greg is the favourite to coach the Winnipeg Blue Bombers right now, although the Riders' Paul Lapolice interviewed first. GM Joe Mack said whomever the new coach is, he'll have freedom to hire his own staff and would prefer the Bombers' existing coaches be given an opportunity.

CFL observers feel the Bombers should consider an offensive-minded coach, given the woeful performance of the "O" under Mike Kelly. However if the new coach is allowed to clean house, we can do whatever he wants.

----

Kudos to Wally Buono's B.C. Lions for launching an initiative this week to combat gangs and give at-risk youth an alternative to a life of crime.

Among the activities announced this week:

-A youth flag football league to give at-risk youth a constructive pastime, with coaches from football and police ranks, culminating in a tournament this spring.

-Tickets to B.C. Lions home games for flag-football players and parents or guardians

-Anti-gang messages at B.C. Lions games, including advertising, banners and audio and video messages to "help youth resist gang influences."

----

Minnesota Vikings broadcaster Paul Allen ripped Brett Favre for his horrible interception which cost the Vikes the game in the NFC championship in New Orleans on Sunday.

"THIS ISN'T DETROIT!" Allen yelled on KFAN. "THIS IS THE SUPER BOWL!"

From what I can tell P.A. isn't getting much flak over what he said, which is surprising as heck to me. I would NEVER rip a player or my team like that. I've listened to Paul Allen a lot. In fact he's my favourite play-by-play announcer in football. And I know he was never a big fan of Brett Favre whether he was in green & gold or purple.

But if Favre comes back, I'm sure he'll give a cool reception to Paul Allen.

----

Some serious and not so serious randoms:

- I've looked into some of CKRM's internet issues. My radio station was getting ripped on the message boards for not having live streaming up and running during Brendan Taman's interview on Sportsline Monday night. And deservedly so. I printed off those comments, highlighted them, and gave them to our internet technician (whom I've privately nicknamed "McLovin"). I'm personally EMBARRASSED as a pro football team's radio rightsholder that these issues are occuring. They will be corrected.

- I think the controversial Tim Tebow Pro-Life advocacy ad during the Super Bowl on CBS should be allowed. And I'm Pro-Choice.

- Why would President Obama throw his support behind the Saints in the Super Bowl? If he cheers for anybody but the Bears (his home team), it's political suicide.

- The coolest thing I've had in my inbox in awhile: "Donald Narcisse has added you as a friend on Facebook".

- The snow removal guys are doing an outstanding job.

- Andre Dawson will go in to Cooperstown as an Expo. But he WANTED to go in as a Cub?! 11 years with Montreal and 6 as a Cub. What's the deal with these guys like him and The Kid? That's very discouraging to an Expos fan like me.

- Someone needs to be fired. Flipping through the channels on the treadmill the other day, I saw Martha Stewart doing a pole dance. I repeat, someone needs to be fired.- The newest, and most-addicting show on TV right now, is this season's Celebrity Rehab With Dr. Drew. Here's all you need to know Dennis Rodman, Heidi Fleiss, Mindy McCready, McKenzie Phillips and the former bassist for Alice In Chains. Very sad, very powerful, and not such a bad idea to show the kids so they stay away from drugs. Even if it's quite graphic.

- If naked pictures of you ended up on the internet, would you be proud or embarrassed?

- Kids missed school all over the city this week because of the blizzard. Lucky little beggars. I never got to miss school because my Dad had a 4 X 4. Still does. Now I'm a Dad and I got a 4 X 4. Funny how life repeats itself.

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HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND AND ENJOY THE PATS-WARRIORS MEMORIES!
RP

Same Ol' Situation

Same ol' ball and chain.

Ken Miller Audio

Roughrider coach Ken Miller talks about the signing of Omarr Morgan, other free agents, the new training facility and about his 2010 coaching staff here:
http://www.mediafire.com/?nmdmymmfmyd

New Rider Training Facility

Old Superstore.

Ooo Boy. Boys Will Be Boys.

Patrick Kane, say hello. Yikes! Check out this link:
http://communities.canada.com/theprovince/blogs/kurtenblog/archive/2010/01/26/chicago-blackhawks-shirtless-partying-pictures.aspx

"O" RE-SIGNS WITH GREEN & WHITE

 The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced today import defensive back Omarr Morgan has re-signed with the team. Financial details of the contract were not released. 

Morgan is heading into his 10th season with the Green and White and 11th in the CFL.

In 2009, the BYU product started all 18 regular season games for the Riders as well as the West Final and Grey Cup game at cornerback.

He tallied 50 defensive tackles, four interceptions, two fumble recoveries one of which he returned a CFL record 108 yards for a touchdown, three pass knockdowns and two tackles for a loss, during the regular season. 

The 33 year old has played a total of 172 CFL regular season games and has 552 defensive tackles, 35 special team tackles, 28 interceptions, 11 fumble recoveries and five touchdowns. 

Morgan was set to become a free agent in February 2010.

Calm Before The Storm & Girls, Girls, Girls

Sorry to say there just isn't much going on around here these days and it's been a little slow in the blogging world. Cripes, we had to resort to watching curlers trash-talk each other here yesterday! Mind you that was more fun than watching midget wrestling, and it's something we may need to dig into further over the new few months.

But really, until this weekend's Pats-Warriors Alumni festivities get rolling, there's not much to say. Even the Roughriders are tight-lipped on what's going on over there these days, although there's plenty under the surface with the Joe Womack situation and free agency.

Mitch Blair takes an entertaining run at Saskatoon on his blog today and you can read it here:
http://blair-necessities.blogspot.com/2010/01/thumbs-down-to-toontown.html.

The noose is tightening for the Regina Pats. The Red Deer Rebels came back to beat Tri-City in overtime last night to shoot up to 7th in the East Conference. The P.A. Raiders now hold down the final playoff spot in the East Conference, seven points up on Regina. The Pats have 22 games left. Check out the poll at the top left of the page to give your thoughts on the Pats' fate.

As for this blogger, it'll be a slow day until tomorrow but tonight's going to be fun as we plan to take in Motley Crue in the Brandt Centre.

Have a great day!

This Week In Cougar Athletics

Women’s Volleyball (CIS Ranking: No. 6) – The Cougars took care of business over the weekend at home against Simon Fraser, winning in straight sets on both Saturday and Sunday. Beth Clark had a team-leading 22 kills and added seven blocks over the two matches. The Cougars will host their last home conference games of the season, with Calgary (6-8) in town for matches on Friday and Saturday night at the CKHS.

Men’s Hockey – The Cougars (6-11-1) had last weekend off and return to the ice this weekend against Calgary. Regina will host the Dinos (10-8-4) on Friday and Saturday night at the Sherwood Ice Sports Centre, with both games scheduled to face off at 7 p.m. The Cougars will also be at home next weekend, with the Manitoba Bisons slated to visit on Feb. 5 and 6.

Women’s Hockey – The Cougars (5-6-5) will try to strengthen their hold on the final Canada West playoff berth this weekend against Saskatchewan. Regina enters the weekend tied with UBC for fourth place in the conference standings, but has two games in hand on the Thunderbirds. The Cougars and the Huskies will meet on Saturday night in Saskatoon before returning to Regina for a 7 p.m. game on Sunday night
at the Sherwood Ice Sports Centre.

Men’s Volleyball – Following a weekend off, the Cougars (0-12) return to action this weekend with a pair of matches against Calgary at the CKHS. Regina and the Dinos (6-8) will meet at 8 p.m. on Friday night and 6 p.m. on Saturday night. Following this weekend, the Cougars will close out their 2009-10 schedule with two road matches at Winnipeg and two road matches at Brandon.

Swimming – Linda Duarte took home a bronze medal from last weekend’s Canada West Swimming Championships in Lethbridge, Alta. The fifth-year swimmer took third place in the 100-metre butterfly with a time of 1:03.46 and added a sixth-place finish in the 200-metre butterfly (2:21.48). Robert Ennis led the Cougars on the men’s side
with a sixth-place showing in the 100-metre butterfly (57.70 s). Duarte will represent the U of R at the CIS Championships in Toronto from Feb. 18 to 20.

Women’s Basketball (CIS Ranking: No. 2) – Regina (12-2) became the first team in Canada West’s Prairie Division to clinch a playoff berth after sweeping the Brandon Bobcats at the CKHS. The Cougars won 64-45 on Friday night and 93-44 on Saturday, as they have now won five consecutive conference games and 10 of their last 11. The Cougars will travel to Calgary this weekend for a pair of games against the Dinos
(7-8).

Men’s Basketball – The Cougars registered a home sweep over the Brandon Bobcats over the weekend, winning by scores of 69-55 and 98-75 to improve their Canada West record to 8-6. Jeff Lukomski caught fire during Saturday’s win, draining nine three-pointers and pouring in 34 points. Winners of four consecutive Canada West games, the Cougars will square off with the No. 6-ranked Calgary Dinos (11-4) this weekend in Calgary.

Women’s Wrestling (CIS Ranking: No. 3) – The Cougars had a busy week, as they defeated Jamestown College 16-13 in a home dual on Wednesday, then sent three wrestlers to the prestigious Guelph Open on Saturday. Meghan King (59 kg) and Jasmine Slinn (48 kg) both finished in fourth place in Guelph, while Andrea Nillson placed fifth at 72 kg. Slinn, Nilson, and Lisa McKibben will represent the U of R at the WCWA Championship this weekend in Marshall, Mo.

Men’s Wrestling (CIS Ranking: No. 5) – The Cougars lost a close 23-18 decision to the Jamestown College Jimmies on Wednesday night in a home dual at the CKHS. The dual meet was the team’s last scheduled action until the Canada West Championships, which are slated for Feb. 19 and 20 in Calgary.

Track & Field (Men’s CIS Ranking: No. 7 / Women’s CIS Ranking: No. 10) – The Cougars return to action this weekend at the 41st Annual Downtown Lions Sled Dog Meet, which will run on Friday and Saturday at the Saskatoon Fieldhouse. Events kick off at 9 p.m. on Friday night and run all day on Saturday.

BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings – Week 19

1 Saint John Sea Dogs (40-8-1-0)
2 Barrie Colts (38-7-0-1)
3 Windsor Spitfires (37-7-0-5)
4 Tri-City Americans (36-12-0-1)
5 London Knights (35-11-0-2)
6 Saskatoon Blades (32-11-2-3)
7 Mississauga St. Michael's Majors (32-10-4-1)
8 Victoriaville Tigres (33-14-1-1)
9 Moncton Wildcats (33-11-1-3)
10 Brandon Wheat Kings (33-16-0-3)

Honourable Mention:
Drummondville Voltigeurs (33-14-0-2)
Everett Silvertips (31-16-2-1)
Kitchener Rangers (31-14-2-2)

Waiting For An Answer

Kevin Lowe to Speak at Sportsman’s Dinner

Regina, Saskatchewan – The 7th edition of the Regina Pats Sportsman's dinner is set and ready to go for Monday, March 8th at The Delta Hotel. Enjoy a night of entertainment and fun, headlined by our guest speaker, Edmonton Oilers President of Hockey Operations, Kevin Lowe.  

The Oilers first ever draft pick, Lowe spent 19 seasons in the NHL with the Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers, winning 6 Stanley Cups. He is also a 7 time NHL All-Star and won the King Clancy Award in 1990.

Since finishing his playing career, Lowe has been both and Assistant and Head Coach of the Oilers before being promoted to General Manager in 2000. He remained the Oilers' Executive Vice President and General Manager until the 2008-09 season when he was promoted to President of Hockey Operations.

All members of the Regina Pats will be present at the dinner with a player seated at each table.

There will be more entertainment announced at a later date. 

Regina Pats Sportsman's Dinner
Monday, March 8th, 2010
The Delta Hotel

Cocktails begin at 6pm
Ceremonies begin at 7pm

Tickets:
Single - $150.00
Table - $1000.00 

Tickets are available at the Regina Pats office located in the West Entrance of the Brandt Centre, or call 522-PATS.

Holland Rink Preps For 2010 Scotties

The town hall in Kronau, Sask was packed for last night's send-off for Team Holland for the 2010 Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Sault St. Marie, Ontario. Holland will represent Saskatchewan along with third Kim Schneider, second Tammy Schneider, lead Heather Kalenchuk and coach Merv Fonger. Their first game is this Saturday afternoon against PEI. 620 CKRM's Jayda Mann was at the send-off and chatted with Holland:

JM: You leave on Thursday ... how are you feeling?

AH: Good! It's nice to be at the send-off because now it feels like it's happening. The past couple of weeks have just been kind of like preparing life, getting all your work done and throwing a few rocks. But it's nice to see all the people here.

JM: How have you been preparing?

AH: Same. Throwing some rocks, had a few practices and some exhibition games. We've just been doing the same things we always do.

JM: Do you know what your schedule will be in Sault St. Marie?

AH: Busy! Friday's a practice, Hot Shots competition, team meeting, banquet Saturday is the opening ceremonies and then finally we play. But there are autograph sessions, TV features and all that. But it'll be nice to finally play.

JM: How does it feel to sign autographs?

AH: It's cool! It's cool people actually want YOUR autograph. I don't think they'll get much on E-Bay for it, but thanks for asking!

JM: Who's your first game against?

AH: We play PEI on Saturday afternoon (2:00 on TSN). We know the team but haven't played them before. The key will be to get on the ice and learn the ice as fast as we can. It's a long event but every game counts.

Kent Switches Teams

Ole Miss sustained a blow with national signing day just around the corner with Cornell University’s reported hiring today of Rebels’ offensive coordinator Kent Austin as head coach.

Austin, a former Ole Miss quarterback from 1981-85, is replacing Jim Knowles, who left Cornell to become defensive coordinator at Duke under David Cutcliffe. The hiring was reported by the Elmira Star-Gazette and attributed to multiple sources close to the Cornell program. A source also confirmed the report to The Commercial Appeal.

In Austin's two years on the Ole Miss staff, the Rebels had one of the most prolific offenses in the SEC, with Jevan Snead at quarterback.

Austin had been a head coach in the Canadian Football League for Saskatchewan, where he was CFL Coach of the Year after guiding the Roughriders to the Grey Cup championship i 2007. He also won the Grey Cup in 1989 as Saskatchewan’s quarterback.

Ole Miss head coach Houston Nutt has yet to comment on Austin’s departure.

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2010/jan/26/report-ole-miss-loses-offensive-coordinator-austin/

STAMPEDERS SIGN COMISKEY

Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel is pleased to announce that free-agent non-import offensive lineman John Comiskey has signed a contract with the club.

This is the second stint in Calgary for Comiskey, who previously played for the Stamps from 2005 to 2007. As per team policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed. 

"I am thrilled to have come to terms with John," said Hufnagel. "A player of his experience and stature will add depth and veteran leadership to our football team."

Mrs. Crosby?

Her name is Kristyne De Mott and I added her on FB thanks to Ryan Switzer. She's the newest star of Drumheller, AB!

But I probably won't be adding this guy:

Trestman Helps Out Tebow

AP
***
Tim Tebow preps for the first big week of his pro career.

(From Peter King's Monday Morning QB)

Today it begins. Once the highlights and interviews from the championship games begin to fade and the reality of a Saints-Colts Super Bowl sets in, we'll turn our attention to the compelling story of the NFL offseason, and it begins at 2:30 p.m. Central Time in southern Alabama.

Florida quarterback Tim Tebow steps into the NFL crucible, onto a practice field ringed by coaches and scouts, at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., beginning a week of practice, meetings and face-to-face visits with prospective NFL employers.

Tebow worked out with CFL coach Marc Trestman for two days early this month, and then daily for the past two weeks in Nashville at the D1 Training Center, under the coaching of former NFL quarterback and coach Zeke Bratkowski. Tebow's thrown to tight end Jimmy Graham of Miami and wideout Jordan Shipley from Texas. He's dropped seven pounds (from 245 to 238).

We in the media business are going to spend the next three months writing the Tebow story into the ground, but there are good reasons for it. He's had unparalleled college success, he's a too-good-to-be-true kid by all accounts, and he's a polarizing football prospect because there's great debate whether his mechanics and arm will allow him to be an every-down NFL quarterback.

Athabasca School Grades 5-8

Thanks for having me this morning, particularly Mr. Aaron Anderson's class who invited me! It was fun to read them "The Hockey Sweater", and tell hockey and football stories. THANK YOU.

Womack Offered New Role

New Roughriders General Manager Brendan Taman was on Sportsline last night and revealed the club has made its offer to Joe Womack to stay with the team. Womack has spent the past three seasons with the Green & White in various roles including head scout, safeties coach and strength coach. Here's what Brendan had to say:

BT: "Joe was very disappointed he didn't get the G.M. job so after the announcement we had a long meeting. Afterwards we offered Joe a position within the organization and it's different from what he had. He won't be coaching anymore. His forte will be working for us a director of U.S. scouting, based out of the U.S.

"He's going to take some time to think about it, and whether or not it's something he wants to pursue. If there are other things out there, I'd be happy to help him in any way I can. But we've offered for him to stay with us, and I think he'd benefit from it. "

RP: Is the timeframe on the decision his or yours?

BT: "To be fair to Joe, and he's done so much work here, he can work on his timetable. If it's 2 weeks or 3 weeks, it's his job to take if he wants it. Having said that, we want to bring sombody else in.

"I've talked to Kenny and we want to have a progression plan in place in the organization. That means if I leave in two years, we'd like to have a G.M. in place to take it. Or if Kenny leaves, we'd like to have an assistant coach ready to take over. And from the management side, I'd like to have a guy here in Regina like an assistant G.M. and Joe in the States. With that, I think we'd have a pretty good organization. "

---

You can listen to the entire interview with Brendan here:

http://www.mediafire.com/?wnawkiqzz2h

---

Former Regina Pat Jamie Heward was on the show as well. He says he and buddy Mike Sillinger are basically waiting on the Parkers to decide when they want to sell the Regina Pats franchise.

Heward says their ownership group approached Brent Parker five or six years ago about the prospect of owning the club, and that's the only time it's been mentioned. He says he's been with or around Brent Parker hundreds of times since, and the topic has never came up again.

So, Heward says, they are simply waiting patiently. However he and Sillinger are eager to be involved with the Regina Pats in a significant way down the road.

Jamie Heward Drops In On Sportsline

Former Regina Pat and Penguin, Maple Leaf, Lightning, Capital, King, Predator, Islander and Blue Jacket stopped by Monday night's show to promote Saturday's TransCanada Clash between Pats and Warriors Alumni. Faceoff is at 1:30 in the Civic Centre. Tickets are available at the Pats office.

Pats Weekly

Friday, January 22nd Regina Pats 6 Swift Current Broncos 5 SO
The Pats overcame multiple deficits to come out with a 6-5 shoot-out win. Five Pats players had multiple point nights with Matt Strueby leading the way with 3 assists. In the shoot out, both Jordan Eberle and Jordan Weal scored while Damien Ketlo stopped Brad Hoban and Cody Eakin to seal the win.

Saturday, January 23rd Regina Pats 5 Swift Current Broncos 2
The Regina Pats won both ends of a home and home series with the Swift Current Broncos with a 5-2 victory at the Swift Current Credit Union I-Plex. The Pats had a 2-0 lead after the first on goals by Matt Strueby and Brett Leffler. The Broncos cut the lead to 2-1 after 2 periods when the fun began. There was a blackout during the second intermission that delayed the game for over an hour. The final period was played in front of only a handful of fans. The saw the Pats score three times en rout to a 5-2 win.

Damien Ketlo was fantastic stopping 34 of 36 Bronco shots for his 15th win of the season

Injury Report:
Injuries: None to Report
Games lost due to injury – 72

Just the Facts:
Defensive Scoring:
The Pats have three defencemen in the team's top ten scorers. Colten Teubert leads with 31 points; Brandon Davidson has 28 while Cody Carlson is right behind them with 24.

Top 5 Scorers:
Jordan Eberle and Jordan Weal are in the top 5 of WHL scorers. Eberle is currently 3rd with 72 points, but has played 15 less games than the leaders, while Jordan Weal is in a tie for 4th with 69.

Mid-Term Rankings:
The NHL CSS mid-term draft rankings were released earlier this week, and the Pats are represented with a pair of players. Jordan Weal is 45 in North American skaters, while Brandon Davidson continues to move up the rankings, he is now 57th. Jordan Weal will play in the CHL Top Prospects game January 19th and 20th in Windsor.

They are all big games:
With the Pats in full chase mode in the Eastern Conference playoff race, every game is important from here on in.

Here's how the rest of the schedule breaks down: 22 games (11 home/11 away), 21 v/ Eastern Conference, 12 East Division, 2 B.C. Division. So far in the month of January, the Pats have started to slowly turn things around with a 5-1-0-1 mark.

January has been a big month:
After going 1-10 in December, the Pats have turned things around in January, heading into this week, the Pats are 6-1-0-1.

Trans Canada Clash:
This weekend is all set to go for the Trans Canada Clash. The Pats and Warriors will kick things off with the game Friday night, with Saturday being the big day.

At 1:30 the Pats Alumni will take on the Warriors Alumni in the 3rd annual Trans-Canada Clash, with the Pats facing the Warriors at 7pm. Both games will be at the Moose Jaw Civic Centre.

Streaking:
*Garrett Mitchell has points in 10 of the last 11 games.
*Jordan Eberle is on a 6 game point streak (6g 6a)
*Jordan Weal is on a 6 game points streak (5g 8a) and picked up his 140th point in Swift Current Saturday night.
*Matt Strueby has points in 5 of his last 6 games (2g 5a).

MAKE-UP GAME DATE:
The Regina Pats and Kootenay Ice have agreed on a make-up date for their game that was originally scheduled for Sunday, January 24th at 6pm which was postponed because of bad weather and poor driving conditions.

The two teams will play the rescheduled game on Monday, February 1st, 2010 at 7pm at the Brandt Centre.

All tickets purchased for the postponed game on the 24th will be valid for the make-up game on Monday, February 1st.

Taman, Heward On Sportsline Tonight

New Roughriders GM Brendan Taman will make his Sportsline debut tonight on 620 CKRM at 6:05 CT. Also on the show will be former Regina Pat and NHLer Jamie Heward to tee up this weekend's Pats/Warriors TransCanada Alumni Clash in the Crushed Can. Listen live at www.620ckrm.com.

Best Deal In Town

All makes and all models. 755 Broad St. N.

WHL - Blades Bad News

Saskatoon Blades forward Curtis Hamilton underwent shoulder surgery yesterday to repair a broken collarbone and will be out of the lineup for the remainder of the season.

NewsAlert (HKO-QMJHL-Cormier-Suspend)

Quebec Major Junior Hockey League suspends Patrice Cormier for remainder of season and playoffs for hit on Mikael Tam.

(The Canadian Press)

The Monday Morning Goalie

Happy Monday! And so closes one of the craziest weeks we've had in quite some time. We have plenty to discuss today....

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Is it an UP week around here? Likely. But NOT for the Minnesota Vikings. They DIDN'T REALLY get caught with too many men in the huddle in their last drive did they? Apparently it happens to the best. That cost them the game, just as it did the Riders.

The Pats though, are on a high and were hoping to sweep their three game weekend with a home win over Kootenay last night but the game was postponed due to the weather and travel conditions.

However the Pats are 6-1-0-1 in the New Year and are now priming for a home-and-home set with the Warriors, plus Alumni weekend.

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17 years for me in the Western Hockey but this past Saturday was a first. The Regina Pats and Swift Current Broncos (and a few hundred fans) sat through an hour long power outage in Swift Current's Credit Union I-Plex before the Pats went on to win 5-2 and sweep the weekend home-and-home series. Not many fans were left once the lights came back on. There are plenty of photos of it in the weekend posts.

It was a first in the Dub but it was EXACTLY the same as August of 2007 with that Rider game in Mosaic Stadium when the facility was plunged into total darkness for an hour against the Eskimos. Security in Swift was clearing the building and saying the game was called, even though WHL officials said it wasn't.

In '07, we stayed on the air for an hour broadcasting over my BlackBerry but the other night I told producer Morris Delorme to spin country tunes until we knew what was up.

Eventually the game was finished and we've got another great hockey story to tell.

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The weekend got off to a funny start in Friday night's game in Regina when, during the national anthem before the Broncos-Pats clash, two fans lobbed plastic rats onto the ice at the feet of the Swift Current players.

It was a joke referring to this summer's rat infestation problem in The Frontier City.

Even funnier was the fact the names "KEEN" and "SWITZER" were written on the rats, paying tribute to the pair of Swift Current broadcasters.

CKRM Radio colour commentator Al Dumba had the line of the weekend when he quipped, "I don't know if they should've tossed those rats out there. We don't want the Broncos to feel at home!"

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C'mon! Let's get these rivalries going! It's so boring around the WHL these days I could cry.

Here's a great line from Sunday morning when our bus was stuck in a snowbank outside the Swift Current Best Western Inn (a beautiful hotel by the way).

"You guys are the Pats huh?" quizzed a guy in the lobby. "If you were the Warriors, I'd give you a tow."

To which one of our traveling party replied, "if we were the Moose Jaw Warriors, we wouldn't be staying in this nice of a hotel!"

The person who lobbed that shot has requested anonymity.

Come on!! Let's get 'er going! The TransCanada Clash is this weekend! But please don't vandalize my Titan Auto SUV outside the Crushed Can Saturday afternoon!!!!!

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Here's one for the WHL readers, and in particular the Breitkreuz family of Springside, Sask, who I know are regular blog readers.

This text came in from Pats GM Brent Parker Saturday night:

"One 4 the blog; van vs PG. 1st shot of game brett breitkreuz scores 4 van . 2nd shot of game clark breitkruez scores. 2 shots 2 brietkruez goal"

To decipher the text, Brett Breitkreuz of the Vancouver Giants scored on the first shot of the game against Prince George. The Cougars' Clarke Breitkreuz (Brett's brother) then scored on P.G.'S first shot on goal to tie the game 1-1.

Two shots, two Breitkreuz goals for two separate teams. Herb will be proud!

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Fans and listeners have sent in lots of complaints to CKRM lately, and for good reason.

We FINALLY got the 106.9 FM broadcast working in the Brandt Centre over the weekend. The SaskTel line was cut during the World Juniors and proved difficult to repair. It's going now, and it's a much better audio feed than 620 AM for folks who want to listen to the game in the arena.

There are also many complaints regarding CKRM's new website which doesn't have updated podcasts (archived shows) of Sportsline or the Rider Coaches Show.

The truth is I'm sorry, but I can't help you. IT'S NOT MY DEPARTMENT.

I'm in charge of one thing at Harvard Broadcasting: ME.

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The New Orleans Saints meet the Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl 44 in 13 days in Miami. Who wins?

It was so sad to see Brett Favre go out that way, but the better team won. Cindy said while we were watching the game, "Favre's like the villain in a bad movie ... everytime you think you've killed him, he comes back for more."

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Rider fans can start making plans for 2010. Montreal Gazette football reporter Herb Zurkowsky reports on his blog sources say the 2010 CFL season will open with a Grey Cup rematch in Regina; Alouettes at Roughriders on Thursday, July 1st. That's the first of three straight road games through the CFL West for the Als to open the season.

Herb also reports the Alouettes have signed former Rider DT Nuvraj Bassi, a non-import.

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The Riders were unphased that a segment of the Rider Nation wasn't tickled about the hiring of Brendan Taman as GM.

How so? Well when I asked the team about it, they said "they weren't happy when we fired Roy Shivers nor were many happy when we hired Eric Tillman. They were upset when we hired Kent Austin and THEN they were upset when we allowed him to go. They were mad when we hired Ken Miller and now they love him."

So it begs the question, just when ARE you happy????

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It seems somebody, with brains, agrees with me regarding David Braley owning more than one CFL team.

"It wouldn't matter to me if he owned all eight teams," Stamps coach John Hufnagel told Allen Cameron of the Calgary Herald.

It sounds as though the Argonauts ownership situation could be solved as early as today, with Braley taking over.

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Here are some juicy show biz stories from Saturday at the Brandt Centre. Where did I get them from?

Don't worry about it.

After Thursday night's Guns N' Roses concert, frontman Axel Rose stayed in his dressing room (the old WHL Visitors room on the southside) until 5:45am partying with four local girls.

The security guards had to wait till Rose had had enough. Finally he did, and he was helped to his bus. He crashed for a couple of hours at his hotel, then boarded a plane home.

Meanwhile Alan Jackson was far tamer, but he had some odd requests in his contract. It stipulated the stairs on the stage could only be four inches high, rather than six or eight, because his Wranglers were so tight that he can't step up or down!

He also requested a golf cart to pick him up at the top of the ramp rather than a van, because again, his pants were so tight he couldn't climb up inside.

What a life! And we were just happy to get complimentary toothbrushes, toothpaste and combs at the hotel in Swift that same night!

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Some randoms to finish off the column:

- Who's the most famous person to go to your high school? Mine would be Ralph Goodale. Milestone High School.

- I got yelled at for standing in the wrong line at the Tim Hortons at the corner of Albert and 4th Ave last week. I don't like Tims that well! Too busy and people are grumpy.

- We witnessed a failed shoplifting attempt last week at the Southland Mall Tip Top. The quick-thinking salesman on duty, Tyler, did a great job chasing the guy down as he fled with two jackets. It happened so fast I didn't know what the hell was going on but it scared the heck out of the A-Train.

- Tommy Hunter will be on stage in the Casino Regina Show Lounge February 5. His tour is called "The Name Says It All". He's right, it does. And that's why I won't be there.

- Twitter update from Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald:

"Things may come 2 those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle."

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HAVE A GREAT WEEK! Talk to you tonight on Sportsline.
RP

Hitler Reacts To Riders Losing The Grey Cup

NOTE THE LANGUAGE WARNING!! Do not watch if you're easily offended!!
RP

The Latest On The Rescheduled Game

From Kootenay Ice broadcaster Jeff Hollick:

"Hey Rod, we are in Saskatchewan in 2 weeks and I think we may be playing Saturday night as scheduled and then Sunday afternoon at 1:30.

The only other day that works is Monday March 1st, as long as the Brand Center is available. The ICE would have to travel there for 1 game.

Other than that, maybe at the end of the regular season if the game would have implications in the standings."

Super Bowl kickoff is at 5:00 on that Sunday, so this may all work...

PATS-KOOTENAY GAME CANCELLED

Just received word from Coach Hunt. Please check back for details on a rescheduled date. Ice broadcaster Jeff Hollick tells me we may have a doubleheader in Regina Super Bowl weekend. Now THAT would be a first.

RP

Made It Home

1:25pm Sunday.

Bomber Firing

WINNIPEG, MB – The Winnipeg Football Club announced today that John Murphy been relieved from his position as Director of Player Personnel.

We're On Our Way

After a second tow-job, this time out of the Swift Current arena parking lot, we're on our way home.

Pats vs Kootenay Ice tonight at 6:00pm at the Brandt Centre. Maybe.

Stuck Again

10:05 am Sunday.

Getting a Tow In SC

And we're on our way home. All the guy wanted in return was for Ebs to sign his truck (I'm kidding). Away we go.

Sunday Sports

The Regina Pats got a little more than they bargained for on Saturday. The hockey club got stormstayed in Swift Current following a 5-2 victory over the Broncos, a game which was delayed for over an hour due to a power outage. The summary is below.

The Pats return home to host the Kootenay Ice tonight at 6:00 on 620 CKRM (Press Box Sports Bar Pregame Show at 5:35pm). We're trying to get out of S.C., but as I write this, the bus is stuck in the snow of the hotel parking lot.

Stay tuned.

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A senior Oakland Raiders executive is denying a report by ESPN that the team has made a decision to bring coach Tom Cable back next season. Oakland is coming off a 5-11 season. The NFL conference finals go today, with the New York Jets at Indianapolis (2pm Sask time), and New Orleans hosts Minnesota (5:30pm Sask time).

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The Vancouver Canucks jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the opening period, and Roberto Luongo made 43 saves in a 5-1 win over Chicago. The New York Rangers were shutout for the fourth time in seven games, as Jaroslav Halak made 32 saves in Montreal's 6-0. Mike Cammalleri had two goals and two assists for the Canadiens.

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Jason Spezza returned after missing 20 games with a knee injury to score the winner in the second period, as the Ottawa Senators won their sixth in a row, 2-1 over Boston. Tomas Vokoun made 39 saves in Florida's 2-0 win over Toronto.

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Fredericton's Matt Stairs wants some more swings in the majors. The soon-to-be 42-year-old signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres. Stairs spent last season with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he was primarily a pinch-hitter.

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PGA Tour rookie Alex Prugh has a one-shot lead over Bubba Watson and rookie Martin Flores after their third round of the Bob Hope Classic. Canada's Mike Weir is six shots off the pace. The five-day is scheduled to end on Monday.

Storm-Stayed In Swift Current

Plaster says if I sleepwalk, I'll drown. Poolside room. G'night.
RP

Pats 5 Broncos 2

SWIFT CURRENT -- It was a memorable night in the Frontier City. The Regina Pats and Swift Current Broncos sat through an hour-and-ten-minute delay after the second period, but Regina kept the pedal to the metal and escaped with a second straight victory over their Highway #1 rivals.

The Pats, who beat the Broncos 6-5 in a shootout Friday, jumped out to a 2-0 first period lead on goals by Brett Leffler and Matt Strueby. The only goal of the second period came from the Broncos' Dillon Wagner and it was 2-1 Regina after forty minutes. As the zamboni was resurfacing the ice in the break, all power to the arena was lost.

The delay last an hour, and WHL officiating supervisor Brad Howard said they would wait until 10:15pm and if the power didn't come back, the game would be called. However at 10:05 the lights came back on and after a five minute warmup, the game was back on.

Colten Teubert made it a 3-1 game with a powerplay goal at 3:38 of the delayed third period. Swift Current's Adam Lowry made it a 3-2 game converting a goal mouth scramble at 9:17. However the Pats' top line finished the game off with goals by Cody Carlson and Jordan Weal, both set up by Carter Ashton and Jordan Eberle.

Game over: Regina 5 Swift Current 2

STATS: Regina was outshot 36-27 ... The Pats were 1/4 on the powerplay and 5/5 killing penalties ... The Pats lead the season series 3-2 ... With the win the Pats improve to 22-24-3-1 but remain six points behind Red Deer for the final playoff spot by virtue of Moose Jaw's 3-1 loss to the Rebels.

MOLSON 3-STARS: 1) Ketlo 2) Lowry 3) Wagner. Taylor Toyota Hardest Working Pat: Brett Leffler.

UP NEXT: The Pats host the Kootenay Ice Sunday night at 6:00pm on 620 CKRM (Press Box Sports Bar Pregame Show at 5:35pm).