"Former Texas Tech quarterback Graham Harrell is back for a second rookie camp on a tryout basis..."
Friday, April 30, 2010
HARRELL RESURFACES IN CLEVELAND
FRIDAY RODSERVATIONS
Again, welcome to the weekend. Today we close the book on April, and not a moment too soon. Here are some ramblings from a sports blogger who's had a dizzying week:
- Did April seem like a month of full moons to you? It was head-spinning! People leaving jobs, getting jobs, switching jobs, losing jobs ... it was nuts! I'd like to think it will change in May but I don't think it will. We'll know soon.
- Wawota, Saskatchewan's Brooks Laich of the Washington Capitals is being hailed as a hero in D.C. for changing the flat tire of a stranded motorist who was driving home right AFTER the Caps' Game 7 loss to Montreal Wednesday. Laich changed the tire, then apologized to the Caps fan for losing the game.
- The Regina Pats' brand is apparently still very strong despite the hockey club missing the WHL playoffs the past two springs. Yesterday the team selected Calgary's Morgan Klimchuk in the first round of the bantam draft and the prospect was over the moon with the pick. "It was a dream come true for me," Klimchuk told CKRM Radio. "I was wanting to go to Regina ... they were my first option. I've been waiting day and night all week for this and when I found out they picked me, I was ecstatic. Words can't describe it. I was excited." Klimchuk says Regina is his home away from home with "an uncle and an auntie" here and both sets of grandparents living within an hour or two's drive.
- Pats GM Brent Parker should be on Twitter. Why not? Rider coach Ken Miller is, and apparently he's enjoying delivering his own, unfiltered, thoughts to Rider fans.
- The Everett Silvertips used the 212th pick in yesterday's draft to take goalie Casey Parker of Regina, who played at Notre Dame. He is the son of Brent Parker.
- Hope you enjoyed Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs! It might have been the best ever. Now however, interest starts to wane and it's understandable. Eight teams are left and if your favourite isn't one of them - or your playoff draft is kaput - it's hard to stay interested with the sun shining and the grass green outside.
- Who picked Montreal to beat Washington besides Canadiens fans? All the analysts' garble leading up to the playoffs was just that; garble. It was shown that NOBODY knows what's going to happen in the playoffs and if they did, they'd be a billionaire living in Vegas. It just goes to show the TSN and Sportsnet analysts know no more than you and me about what's going to happen.
- Congratulations to Montreal Canadiens fans for not rioting Wednesday night after they beat Washington. Perhaps they're finally catching on.
- TSN's audience of 2.8-million for Game 7 of the Caps-Habs series was the highest ever audience recorded for an NHL game on TSN and the series was the most-watched ever on the sports network (all rounds).
- Here are the top five most-watched sports programs on Canadian TV this week (not including the Washington-Montreal Game 7):
1. NHL, Penguins at Senators, Saturday, CBC: 2.948-million viewers
2. NHL, Canucks at Kings, Sunday, CBC: 2.826-million viewers
3. NHL, Kings at Canucks, Friday, CBC: 1.953-million viewers
4. NHL, Canadiens at Capitals, Friday, TSN: 1.629-million viewers
5. NHL, Avalanche at Sharks, Saturday, CBC: 1.359-million viewers
- I found it interesting that Jordan Eberle revealed on Wednesday that his favourite NHL player is Joe Sakic. He noticed his name is now on the WHL MVP trophy along with Sakic's.
- The Phoenix Coyotes' victory song in their dressing room is "RIGHT BACK WHERE WE STARTED FROM" by Maxine Nightingale from the SLAPSHOT soundtrack. Too bad they didn't get to play it as often as they would've liked in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. No matter, Dave Tippett will win NHL Coach of the Year anyways.
- I've changed my mind and am all for Eberle's #7 being retired by the Pats. Since he's only the fourth Regina Pat to win league MVP (Sobchuck, Wickenheiser and Harding being the others), he's earned it. Just remember Josh Harding went on to win CHL MVP so there will no be a case for his #37 being retired as well.
- Welcome to Regina all rec hockey players and teams! Regina's Cooperators Centre will host Regina's first ever Molson Canadian Ultimate Rec Hockey Experience today and tomorrow. Barry Thomson and Ron Nugent are the honourary commissioners. It's going to be great.
- This is why I love Don Narcisse. Tomorrow night's Estevan Minor Football fundraising banquet is soldout. The Riders' Mike McCullough and me are the guest speakers. The organizers asked Narco if he could help out in any way with a donation and this is what he wrote them:
"Hey this is Don Narcisse; I would like to donate two tickets for the Hall of Fame Induction August 14, 2010. Whoever wins will get a chance to sit at one of my tables and get to meet my family and friends, take pictures and get autographs. I hope this will help your program. And if there is anything else you need me to do just let me know. If you have a local radio show to kick it off just give them my phone number ... Let's raise some MONEY!"
What a guy. So if you want, throw an absentee bid on that prize into the comments section below and we'll see if we can get it going. Tomorrow night is Estevan is going to be GREAT.
- I predict Kerry Joseph will be playing in the CFL by the August long weekend. SOMEBODY will need him and he'll be healthy and ready to go. If it's not the Riders, it'll be somebody.
- I hear former Blue Bomber coach Mike Kelly is living in Winnipeg and will have an online radio show that may even be carried on local radio. I would listen to that.
- The Blue Bombers apparently quitely released veteran kicker Troy Westwood a few weeks ago, with little fanfare. Today we hear he wants a shot at a training camp somewhere, preferably Winnipeg.
- Experts predict Calgary will draft a kicker with their first pick in Sunday's draft.
- Orlando Magic centre Dwight Howard was fined $35,000 for criticizing NBA officiating on his blog. I love it.
- Check out Regina's new and improved car racing website at http://www.kickinasphalt.ca/.
- I walked into the middle of "a situation" outside Walmart the other day. A guy flanked a girl outside the front doors and slammed her to the ground. It was similar to a calf roper flanking a calf. I thought it was a guy beating up his girlfriend as he yelled "Stop resisting!" I vowed the next time I saw something like this, I would step in. So I did. Turns out he works for the store and was stopping her from shoplifting. His disguise fooled the heck out of me.
- The price of gas is in the Queen City has gone up to $1.07.
- Daytime TV is a wasteland. Take for example "Bulging Brides" starring former BC Lion and Winnipeg Blue Bomber safety Tom Europe. Good grief. You know you're stuck for something to watch when your channel surfing stops there on the treadmill while you're trying not to be bored. Good for Tom though.
- Talk radio host Dr. Laura revealed yesterday that she's 63 years old. She looks good for 63! It's good to know I can do this radio bit for a long time to come. I guess that's one more guilty pleasure for me. CSI, Dr. Phil and now Dr. Laura. Those are three things I enjoy in this world of media.
HAPPY WEEKEND FRIENDS!
RP
- Did April seem like a month of full moons to you? It was head-spinning! People leaving jobs, getting jobs, switching jobs, losing jobs ... it was nuts! I'd like to think it will change in May but I don't think it will. We'll know soon.
- Wawota, Saskatchewan's Brooks Laich of the Washington Capitals is being hailed as a hero in D.C. for changing the flat tire of a stranded motorist who was driving home right AFTER the Caps' Game 7 loss to Montreal Wednesday. Laich changed the tire, then apologized to the Caps fan for losing the game.
- The Regina Pats' brand is apparently still very strong despite the hockey club missing the WHL playoffs the past two springs. Yesterday the team selected Calgary's Morgan Klimchuk in the first round of the bantam draft and the prospect was over the moon with the pick. "It was a dream come true for me," Klimchuk told CKRM Radio. "I was wanting to go to Regina ... they were my first option. I've been waiting day and night all week for this and when I found out they picked me, I was ecstatic. Words can't describe it. I was excited." Klimchuk says Regina is his home away from home with "an uncle and an auntie" here and both sets of grandparents living within an hour or two's drive.
- Pats GM Brent Parker should be on Twitter. Why not? Rider coach Ken Miller is, and apparently he's enjoying delivering his own, unfiltered, thoughts to Rider fans.
- The Everett Silvertips used the 212th pick in yesterday's draft to take goalie Casey Parker of Regina, who played at Notre Dame. He is the son of Brent Parker.
- Hope you enjoyed Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs! It might have been the best ever. Now however, interest starts to wane and it's understandable. Eight teams are left and if your favourite isn't one of them - or your playoff draft is kaput - it's hard to stay interested with the sun shining and the grass green outside.
- Who picked Montreal to beat Washington besides Canadiens fans? All the analysts' garble leading up to the playoffs was just that; garble. It was shown that NOBODY knows what's going to happen in the playoffs and if they did, they'd be a billionaire living in Vegas. It just goes to show the TSN and Sportsnet analysts know no more than you and me about what's going to happen.
- Congratulations to Montreal Canadiens fans for not rioting Wednesday night after they beat Washington. Perhaps they're finally catching on.
- TSN's audience of 2.8-million for Game 7 of the Caps-Habs series was the highest ever audience recorded for an NHL game on TSN and the series was the most-watched ever on the sports network (all rounds).
- Here are the top five most-watched sports programs on Canadian TV this week (not including the Washington-Montreal Game 7):
1. NHL, Penguins at Senators, Saturday, CBC: 2.948-million viewers
2. NHL, Canucks at Kings, Sunday, CBC: 2.826-million viewers
3. NHL, Kings at Canucks, Friday, CBC: 1.953-million viewers
4. NHL, Canadiens at Capitals, Friday, TSN: 1.629-million viewers
5. NHL, Avalanche at Sharks, Saturday, CBC: 1.359-million viewers
- I found it interesting that Jordan Eberle revealed on Wednesday that his favourite NHL player is Joe Sakic. He noticed his name is now on the WHL MVP trophy along with Sakic's.
- The Phoenix Coyotes' victory song in their dressing room is "RIGHT BACK WHERE WE STARTED FROM" by Maxine Nightingale from the SLAPSHOT soundtrack. Too bad they didn't get to play it as often as they would've liked in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. No matter, Dave Tippett will win NHL Coach of the Year anyways.
- I've changed my mind and am all for Eberle's #7 being retired by the Pats. Since he's only the fourth Regina Pat to win league MVP (Sobchuck, Wickenheiser and Harding being the others), he's earned it. Just remember Josh Harding went on to win CHL MVP so there will no be a case for his #37 being retired as well.
- Welcome to Regina all rec hockey players and teams! Regina's Cooperators Centre will host Regina's first ever Molson Canadian Ultimate Rec Hockey Experience today and tomorrow. Barry Thomson and Ron Nugent are the honourary commissioners. It's going to be great.
- This is why I love Don Narcisse. Tomorrow night's Estevan Minor Football fundraising banquet is soldout. The Riders' Mike McCullough and me are the guest speakers. The organizers asked Narco if he could help out in any way with a donation and this is what he wrote them:
"Hey this is Don Narcisse; I would like to donate two tickets for the Hall of Fame Induction August 14, 2010. Whoever wins will get a chance to sit at one of my tables and get to meet my family and friends, take pictures and get autographs. I hope this will help your program. And if there is anything else you need me to do just let me know. If you have a local radio show to kick it off just give them my phone number ... Let's raise some MONEY!"
What a guy. So if you want, throw an absentee bid on that prize into the comments section below and we'll see if we can get it going. Tomorrow night is Estevan is going to be GREAT.
- I predict Kerry Joseph will be playing in the CFL by the August long weekend. SOMEBODY will need him and he'll be healthy and ready to go. If it's not the Riders, it'll be somebody.
- I hear former Blue Bomber coach Mike Kelly is living in Winnipeg and will have an online radio show that may even be carried on local radio. I would listen to that.
- The Blue Bombers apparently quitely released veteran kicker Troy Westwood a few weeks ago, with little fanfare. Today we hear he wants a shot at a training camp somewhere, preferably Winnipeg.
- Experts predict Calgary will draft a kicker with their first pick in Sunday's draft.
- Orlando Magic centre Dwight Howard was fined $35,000 for criticizing NBA officiating on his blog. I love it.
- Check out Regina's new and improved car racing website at http://www.kickinasphalt.ca/.
- I walked into the middle of "a situation" outside Walmart the other day. A guy flanked a girl outside the front doors and slammed her to the ground. It was similar to a calf roper flanking a calf. I thought it was a guy beating up his girlfriend as he yelled "Stop resisting!" I vowed the next time I saw something like this, I would step in. So I did. Turns out he works for the store and was stopping her from shoplifting. His disguise fooled the heck out of me.
- The price of gas is in the Queen City has gone up to $1.07.
- Daytime TV is a wasteland. Take for example "Bulging Brides" starring former BC Lion and Winnipeg Blue Bomber safety Tom Europe. Good grief. You know you're stuck for something to watch when your channel surfing stops there on the treadmill while you're trying not to be bored. Good for Tom though.
- Talk radio host Dr. Laura revealed yesterday that she's 63 years old. She looks good for 63! It's good to know I can do this radio bit for a long time to come. I guess that's one more guilty pleasure for me. CSI, Dr. Phil and now Dr. Laura. Those are three things I enjoy in this world of media.HAPPY WEEKEND FRIENDS!
RP
THE LATEST ON THE NEW STADIUM
the Wall government, despite the tough budget a month ago.
Enterprise minister Ken Cheveldayoff had the model of the
proposed facility with him when he spoke to a business
breakfast in Saskatoon today. He says the government
continues to work behind the scenes, trying to put together
a funding formula involving the various stakeholders,
including the Roughriders. Cheveldayoff says support for
the project is very strong. With a fully-retractable roof,
the stadium carries an estimated price tag of more than
$400 million.
(CKRM/CJWW News)
RED AND WHITE SIGN FRASER AND KEAN
Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel is pleased to announce the signings of their 2009 first-round draft pick, safety Eric Fraser, and non-import kicker Warren Kean. As per team policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
"The addition of Warren and Eric gives another real boost to our Canadian talent," said Hufnagel. "We needed a kicker and Warren has the ability to be a solid CFL kicker. We're excited about his signing and I know he's very excited about the opportunity to play for the Calgary Stampeders.
"Eric was our first-round pick last year but he went back to school to finish his senior season. He made good progress and we feel he can come to camp with a real chance to help us on defence."
"The addition of Warren and Eric gives another real boost to our Canadian talent," said Hufnagel. "We needed a kicker and Warren has the ability to be a solid CFL kicker. We're excited about his signing and I know he's very excited about the opportunity to play for the Calgary Stampeders.
"Eric was our first-round pick last year but he went back to school to finish his senior season. He made good progress and we feel he can come to camp with a real chance to help us on defence."
Thursday, April 29, 2010
PATS DRAFT WRAP
Edmonton, Alberta – The Regina Pats completed the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft and selected 10 players in total. There are players from all over Western Canada and the US, with 4 from BC, 3 from Saskatchewan, and one each from Alberta, Manitoba and California
The Pats selected 5 defencemen, 4 forwards and one goaltender.
Here are the newest members of the Regina Pats:
1st Rnd, 5th Overall Morgan Klimchuk (C) Calgary Bisons Calgary, AB
3rd Rnd, 47th Overall Kyle Burroughs (D) Langley Eagles Langley, BC
4th Rnd, 67th Overall Colby Williams (D) Regina Oilers Regina, SK
5th Rnd, 91st Overall Ty McLean (LW) Moose Mtn. Wild Redvers, SK
5th Rnd, 102nd Overall Brett Harris (C) Notre Dame Hounds 100 Mile House BC
6th Rnd, 115th Overall Tanner Burghardt (G) West Central Klippers Kerrobert, SK
7th Rnd, 137th Overall Nolan De Jong (D) Saanich Bantam Victoria, BC
8th Rnd, 159th Overall Nolan Parrington (D) Winnipeg Warriors Winnipeg, MAN
9th Rnd, 181st Overall Demico Hannoun (RW) North Delta Devils Delta, BC
10th Rnd, 203rd Overall Alec McCrea (D) San Diego Gulls El Cajon, CAL
There were a pair of trades this afternoon, the first saw the Pats acquire the 67th and 102nd overall picks from the Portland Winterhawks in exchange for the Pats 49th overall pick.
The other deal had the Pats re-acquiring their 10th round pick from the Kamloops Blazers in exchange for the Pats 10th round pick next season
20010-2011 Regina Pats season ticket packages are now available, with the early bird purchase deadline is May 31st. For more information call 522-PATS, or head to www.reginapats.com for more information.
The Pats selected 5 defencemen, 4 forwards and one goaltender.
Here are the newest members of the Regina Pats:
1st Rnd, 5th Overall Morgan Klimchuk (C) Calgary Bisons Calgary, AB
3rd Rnd, 47th Overall Kyle Burroughs (D) Langley Eagles Langley, BC
4th Rnd, 67th Overall Colby Williams (D) Regina Oilers Regina, SK
5th Rnd, 91st Overall Ty McLean (LW) Moose Mtn. Wild Redvers, SK
5th Rnd, 102nd Overall Brett Harris (C) Notre Dame Hounds 100 Mile House BC
6th Rnd, 115th Overall Tanner Burghardt (G) West Central Klippers Kerrobert, SK
7th Rnd, 137th Overall Nolan De Jong (D) Saanich Bantam Victoria, BC
8th Rnd, 159th Overall Nolan Parrington (D) Winnipeg Warriors Winnipeg, MAN
9th Rnd, 181st Overall Demico Hannoun (RW) North Delta Devils Delta, BC
10th Rnd, 203rd Overall Alec McCrea (D) San Diego Gulls El Cajon, CAL
There were a pair of trades this afternoon, the first saw the Pats acquire the 67th and 102nd overall picks from the Portland Winterhawks in exchange for the Pats 49th overall pick.
The other deal had the Pats re-acquiring their 10th round pick from the Kamloops Blazers in exchange for the Pats 10th round pick next season
20010-2011 Regina Pats season ticket packages are now available, with the early bird purchase deadline is May 31st. For more information call 522-PATS, or head to www.reginapats.com for more information.
2010 RBC CUP BEGINS SATURDAY IN DAUPHIN, MANITOBA
DAUPHIN, Man. – For the 40th time, Canada's top Junior A teams have gathered, this year in Dauphin, to battle for the National Junior A Championship, beginning Saturday, May 1.
This year marks the fourth time Manitoba has hosted the tournament, joining Flin Flon in 2001, Winnipeg in 1992 and Brandon in 1973. The host team, the Dauphin Kings, are joined by regional representatives Vernon Vipers (Pacific), La Ronge Ice Wolves (West), Oakville Blades (Central) and Brockville Braves (East). The five teams will take to the ice at the Parkland Recreation Complex, hoping to earn one of the two berths in Sunday's nationally-televised championship game.
The gold medal game on Sunday, May 9 will be broadcast live on TSN at 3 p.m. ET/noon PT. It will be shown on tape delay on RDS at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT. Check your local listings for the broadcast time in your area.
This year marks the fourth time Manitoba has hosted the tournament, joining Flin Flon in 2001, Winnipeg in 1992 and Brandon in 1973. The host team, the Dauphin Kings, are joined by regional representatives Vernon Vipers (Pacific), La Ronge Ice Wolves (West), Oakville Blades (Central) and Brockville Braves (East). The five teams will take to the ice at the Parkland Recreation Complex, hoping to earn one of the two berths in Sunday's nationally-televised championship game.
The gold medal game on Sunday, May 9 will be broadcast live on TSN at 3 p.m. ET/noon PT. It will be shown on tape delay on RDS at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT. Check your local listings for the broadcast time in your area.
GET YOURS NOW!
"Buying wiser's deluxe or special blend. Will be on lambs and polar ice next month too"
PATS TAKE KLIMCHUK
In 28 games with the Bisons this season, Klimchuk scored 33 times and collected 19 assists for 52 points while adding 44 minutes in penalties. He was also a 2009-10 South Division AMBHL All-Star.
Regina Pats General Manager, Brent Parker commented "We are very excited to have Morgan joining our organization, he is gifted goal scorer and as good a skater as there was in the draft. We believe that if he continues to develop he has a chance to be a very good offensive player in our league. He was the captain of the Calgary Bisons this past season as he helped lead them to the league and provincial championships. His family has ties to the city and I know he is thrilled to be a Pat"
Regina Pats Director of Scouting, Todd Ripplinger stated "He played great at the Western Canadian Bantam Championships, he was dominant and showed great hands. He combines great feet, and is a good skater; Klimchuk will be a stud in this league."
Other past Regina Pat 1st round selections include Chandler Stephenson (2009), Myles Bell (2008), Dominick Favreau (2007), Colten Teubert (2006) and Brett Leffler (2005).
FORSBERG GOES 1ST OVERALL TO COUGARS
Edmonton, AB -- With the first overall selection in the '10 WHL Bantam Draft the Prince George Cougars selected Alex Forsberg of Waldheim, Saskatchewan.
Forsberg, a 5'9", 170 pound centre played the 2009-10 season with the Beardy's Blackhawks of the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League, finishing tied for third in league scoring with 26 goals and 46 assists for 72 points in 44 games, tops among all rookies in the SMAAAHL.
In the 2010 SMAAAHL playoffs, Alex recorded seven goals and nine points in six games, earning a goal in Beardy's final five games and recorded a point in all six games.
"We are proud to select a quality young man with exceptional hockey ability first overall in the draft," said Cougars General Manager Dallas Thompson. "Alex possesses the skills necessary to become a top quality hockey player for the Prince George Cougars."
Forsberg, a 5'9", 170 pound centre played the 2009-10 season with the Beardy's Blackhawks of the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League, finishing tied for third in league scoring with 26 goals and 46 assists for 72 points in 44 games, tops among all rookies in the SMAAAHL.
In the 2010 SMAAAHL playoffs, Alex recorded seven goals and nine points in six games, earning a goal in Beardy's final five games and recorded a point in all six games.
"We are proud to select a quality young man with exceptional hockey ability first overall in the draft," said Cougars General Manager Dallas Thompson. "Alex possesses the skills necessary to become a top quality hockey player for the Prince George Cougars."
STAMPEDERS SIGN MATT SHERIDAN
Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel is pleased to announce the signing of veteran non-import offensive lineman Matt Sheridan. As per team policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
"Matt has a great deal of CFL experience and he'll be a nice addition to our offensive line," said Hufnagel. "We've been talking to him off and on throughout the off-season and I'm pleased that we were able to come to an agreement."
"Matt has a great deal of CFL experience and he'll be a nice addition to our offensive line," said Hufnagel. "We've been talking to him off and on throughout the off-season and I'm pleased that we were able to come to an agreement."
POOF!
TSN.ca ALERT: Montreal Canadiens eliminate Washington Capitals with a 2-1 win in Game 7 to reach Eastern Conference semifinals.
*And my playoff draft goes up in smoke. DON'T compare Ovechkin to Crosby again!
WHL AWARD WINNERS
WHL Player of the Year - Four Broncos Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Jordan Eberle (Regina, SK), Regina Pats
RUNNER UP
Craig Cunningham (Trail, BC), Vancouver Giants
WHL Rookie of the Year - Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (Burnaby, BC), Red Deer Rebels
RUNNER UP
Shane McColgan (Manhattan Beach, CA), Kelowna Rockets
WHL Goaltender of the Year - Del Wilson Trophy
WINNER
Martin Jones (North Vancouver, BC), Calgary Hitmen
RUNNER UP
Calvin Pickard (Winnipeg, MB), Seattle Thunderbirds
WHL Defenceman of the Year - Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Tyson Barrie (Victoria, BC), Kelowna Rockets
RUNNER UP
Michael Stone (Winnipeg, MB), Calgary Hitmen
WHL Scholastic Player Award - Daryl K. (Doc) Seaman Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Adam Lowry (Calgary, AB) Swift Current Broncos
RUNNER UP
Spencer Main (North Vancouver, BC) Kelowna Rockets
WHL Most Sportsmanlike Award - Brad Hornung Trophy
WINNER
Jason Bast (Moose Jaw, SK) Moose Jaw Warriors
RUNNER UP
Jared Spurgeon (Edmonton, AB), Spokane Chiefs
WHL Humanitarian of the Year - Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Matt Fraser (Red Deer, AB) Kootenay Ice
RUNNER UP
Zack Dailey (Healy, AK) Everett Silvertips
WHL Coach of the Year - Dunc McCallum Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Mark Holick, Kootenay Ice
RUNNER UP
Craig Hartsburg, Everett Silvertips
WHL Executive of the Year - Lloyd Saunders Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Kelly McCrimmon, Brandon Wheat Kings
RUNNER UP
Bob Tory, Tri-City Americans
WHL Marketing/Public Relations Award
WINNER
Everett Silvertips, Zoran Rajcic
RUNNER UP
Brandon Wheat Kings, Rick Dillabough
WINNER
Jordan Eberle (Regina, SK), Regina Pats
RUNNER UP
Craig Cunningham (Trail, BC), Vancouver Giants
WHL Rookie of the Year - Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (Burnaby, BC), Red Deer Rebels
RUNNER UP
Shane McColgan (Manhattan Beach, CA), Kelowna Rockets
WHL Goaltender of the Year - Del Wilson Trophy
WINNER
Martin Jones (North Vancouver, BC), Calgary Hitmen
RUNNER UP
Calvin Pickard (Winnipeg, MB), Seattle Thunderbirds
WHL Defenceman of the Year - Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Tyson Barrie (Victoria, BC), Kelowna Rockets
RUNNER UP
Michael Stone (Winnipeg, MB), Calgary Hitmen
WHL Scholastic Player Award - Daryl K. (Doc) Seaman Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Adam Lowry (Calgary, AB) Swift Current Broncos
RUNNER UP
Spencer Main (North Vancouver, BC) Kelowna Rockets
WHL Most Sportsmanlike Award - Brad Hornung Trophy
WINNER
Jason Bast (Moose Jaw, SK) Moose Jaw Warriors
RUNNER UP
Jared Spurgeon (Edmonton, AB), Spokane Chiefs
WHL Humanitarian of the Year - Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Matt Fraser (Red Deer, AB) Kootenay Ice
RUNNER UP
Zack Dailey (Healy, AK) Everett Silvertips
WHL Coach of the Year - Dunc McCallum Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Mark Holick, Kootenay Ice
RUNNER UP
Craig Hartsburg, Everett Silvertips
WHL Executive of the Year - Lloyd Saunders Memorial Trophy
WINNER
Kelly McCrimmon, Brandon Wheat Kings
RUNNER UP
Bob Tory, Tri-City Americans
WHL Marketing/Public Relations Award
WINNER
Everett Silvertips, Zoran Rajcic
RUNNER UP
Brandon Wheat Kings, Rick Dillabough
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
REGINA PATS’ JORDAN EBERLE NAMED WHL PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Eberle enjoyed an outstanding 2009-10 WHL season, despite his Regina Pats not qualifying for the WHL playoffs. The 19-year-old from Regina, SK, scored 50 goals and added 56 assists for 106 points in just 57 regular-season games for his hometown team to finish second in WHL scoring.
Eberle's 1.86 points-per-game average marked the highest points-per-game average for any WHL player since the 1998-99 season. The 5'11", 184-lb forward finished tied for second among all WHL players with 19 power play goals, and also tied for second in shorthanded goals with six on the season. In addition, Eberle was selected among the 3 Stars in 26 of 57 games he played, earning the 1st Star selection 13 times.
The leading goal-scorer in the history of Canada's National Junior team, Eberle recorded at least one point in 50 of 57 games he played for Regina this season, and was held pointless in consecutive games on only two occasions all season.
Drafted in the first round (22nd overall) by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, Eberle has piled up 155 goals and 155 assists for 310 points in 254 games through his four years with the Pats. He was selected by the Pats in the seventh round (126th overall) in the 2005 WHL Bantam Draft.
Jordan Eberle is the WHL's nominee for the CHL Player of the Year at the Canadian Hockey League Awards, which will be handed out during the 2010 MasterCard Memorial in Brandon, Manitoba.
GAINER'S READY FOR CAMP
ROUGHRIDERS READY FOR CFL CANADIAN DRAFT
The Saskatchewan Roughrider Football Operations staff is busy preparing their draft strategy for the Canadian Football League's annual selection process.
The 2010 CFL Canadian Draft will take place Sunday May 2nd at 10:00 am Sask time. TSN will provide live exclusive coverage of the first two rounds of the Draft. The 2010 CFL Canadian Draft will also be available on-demand at TSN.ca, and fans can follow all six rounds through real-time updates on CFL.ca.
The Green and White enter Sunday's selection process with four picks in the six round draft.
ROUGHRIDER DRAFT PICKS:
ROUND 1 (2nd overall) SSK via WPG
ROUND 1 (4th overall) SSK via EDM
ROUND 5 (33rd overall) SSK via WPG
ROUND 5 (38th overall) SSK via TOR via SSK
The 2010 CFL Canadian Draft will take place Sunday May 2nd at 10:00 am Sask time. TSN will provide live exclusive coverage of the first two rounds of the Draft. The 2010 CFL Canadian Draft will also be available on-demand at TSN.ca, and fans can follow all six rounds through real-time updates on CFL.ca.
The Green and White enter Sunday's selection process with four picks in the six round draft.
ROUGHRIDER DRAFT PICKS:
ROUND 1 (2nd overall) SSK via WPG
ROUND 1 (4th overall) SSK via EDM
ROUND 5 (33rd overall) SSK via WPG
ROUND 5 (38th overall) SSK via TOR via SSK
SUPER LATE MODEL RACING RETURNS TO REGINA
REGINA -- Kings Park Speedway in partnership with TCU Financial Group is proud to announce the return of Super Late Model Racing to Regina on Saturday, August 28. As a part of the track's 40th Anniversary, the TCU 150 Western Canadian Super Late Model Championship Series race will feature the fastest stock cars in Canada. The 150 lap race on the Kings Park Speedway oval will be the fourth of a five event race series so the action will be plentiful as drivers jockey for all important positions in the standings as they head into the final race of the season.
Tickets are $10 and available at TCU Financial Group branches on Quance St and Rochdale Blvd in Regina.
THINGS GET SERIOUS
Rider head coach Ken Miller had this unexpected update on Twitter:
From: @Coach_KenMiller
"WOW! GM Brendan Taman has received multiple trade offers regarding the upcoming CFL Draft. We are seriously considering a couple of them."
Meanwhile for a look at how NFL signings have changed the complexion of this weekend's CFL Draft, click here:
OUT OF THE LOOP
So anyways, today the BlackBerry is back on and I'll be connected again. But it was great to spend a day with youth on Tuesday..
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
ECONOMIC IMPACT OF 2010 WORLD JUNIORS EVALUATED AT OVER $86 MILLION
REGINA, Sask. – Hockey Canada, along with the Canadian Hockey League and the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship Organizing Committee unveiled details on Tuesday on how the World Juniors in Saskatchewan will benefit hockey in Canada for years to come.
The event, hosted from December 26, 2009 through January 5, 2010, will contribute a legacy of over 15 million dollars in funding to various levels of grassroots hockey.
Based on preliminary reports, the IIHF World Junior Championship steering committee is proud to confirm that the legacy funds will be distributed as follows:
- Over $7.5 million into grassroots Hockey Canada programs, high performance programs and international programming
- Over $5.3 million to the Canadian Hockey League for player development and its scholarship fund
- Over $1.5 million divided equally between Hockey Canada's 12 other member branches to go towards supporting grassroots programming in every region in Canada
- Over $720,000 to the host Hockey Canada branch, the Saskatchewan Hockey Association, to support grassroots programming, including an education assistance program within the Saskatchewan Development Model
"Hockey Canada congratulates the host committee and the Province of Saskatchewan for all its work in making the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship such a success," said Hockey Canada chief operating officer Scott Smith.
"In seeing the legacy of this event and the economic impact that it has had on the two host communities, the host province and grassroots hockey in Canada, we will continue to work together with our partners to bring major international events to Canada on a regular basis."
The event, hosted from December 26, 2009 through January 5, 2010, will contribute a legacy of over 15 million dollars in funding to various levels of grassroots hockey.
Based on preliminary reports, the IIHF World Junior Championship steering committee is proud to confirm that the legacy funds will be distributed as follows:
- Over $7.5 million into grassroots Hockey Canada programs, high performance programs and international programming
- Over $5.3 million to the Canadian Hockey League for player development and its scholarship fund
- Over $1.5 million divided equally between Hockey Canada's 12 other member branches to go towards supporting grassroots programming in every region in Canada
- Over $720,000 to the host Hockey Canada branch, the Saskatchewan Hockey Association, to support grassroots programming, including an education assistance program within the Saskatchewan Development Model
"Hockey Canada congratulates the host committee and the Province of Saskatchewan for all its work in making the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship such a success," said Hockey Canada chief operating officer Scott Smith.
"In seeing the legacy of this event and the economic impact that it has had on the two host communities, the host province and grassroots hockey in Canada, we will continue to work together with our partners to bring major international events to Canada on a regular basis."
Derkatch to oversee first WHL Bantam Draft for Raiders
Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – When the Prince Albert Raiders announce their first round selection, 6th overall in Thursday's Western Hockey League Bantam Draft at Fantasyland Hotel in Edmonton, it will be the culmination of Dale Derkatch's first full season as the teams' Director of Player Personnel. Derkatch took over the role on June 16, 2009.
This season he has worked along side General Manager and Head Coach Bruno Campese to oversee the Raider scouting staff as they prepare to select primarily 14 year-old players from across Western Canada and the Western United States.
Derkatch is a former Rookie of the Year, Top Scorer and Head Coach in the WHL and has also scouted for the Washington Capitals of the NHL and been Director of Hockey Development at Notre Dame College in Wilcox, Saskatchewan.
This season he has worked along side General Manager and Head Coach Bruno Campese to oversee the Raider scouting staff as they prepare to select primarily 14 year-old players from across Western Canada and the Western United States.
Derkatch is a former Rookie of the Year, Top Scorer and Head Coach in the WHL and has also scouted for the Washington Capitals of the NHL and been Director of Hockey Development at Notre Dame College in Wilcox, Saskatchewan.
RIDERS ADD PAIR TO ROSTER
Gilchrist (5'9 – 184 lbs) was a two-year starter at Hampton after he transferred from Virginia Tech. He recorded 40 catches, 544 yards and two touchdowns in his senior season and also averaged 15.6 yards on 28 punt returns with three more touchdowns. In his junior year, he had 69 catches for 1,043 yards and seven touchdowns to go along with a 19 yard average on 20 punt returns and three more. Gilchrist was a first-team all-conference in 2007 and a second-team All-MEAC in 2008. The 24-year old originally signed with the Riders in October, 2009 and spent a few weeks on the team's practice roster.
Hawkins (6'3- 244 lbs) played two seasons at Illinois State after transferring from Purdue. He was runner-up for the Buck Buchanan Award, presented annually to the top defensive player in I-AA football. Hawkins ranked second in the nation with 17 sacks as a senior, setting school and Gateway Conference records. He was also the MVP for the 2006 Hula Bowl. The 26-year old was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fifth round of the 2006 NFL Draft. In 20 games played with the Jaguars during two seasons, Hawkins had 23 tackles and 5.5 quarterback sacks.
WARRIORS RELEASE ASSISTANT COACH
Moose Jaw, SK.--- The Moose Jaw Warriors announced today that they will not be extending Assistant Coach Kevin Higo's contract next year.
"We feel the need to go another direction moving forward," stated Director of Hockey Operations Jeff Truitt. "Kevin is a quality coach who would like to explore other opportunities; we wish him all the best," added Truitt.
"Our search for his replacement will commence shortly and we will take our time looking at candidates using a thorough process," said Truitt.
"We feel the need to go another direction moving forward," stated Director of Hockey Operations Jeff Truitt. "Kevin is a quality coach who would like to explore other opportunities; we wish him all the best," added Truitt.
"Our search for his replacement will commence shortly and we will take our time looking at candidates using a thorough process," said Truitt.
FORDE TALKS DRAFT
TSN football analyst (and former Calgary Stampeder) Duane Forde was on CKRM's Sportsline last night talking about this Sunday's CFL draft which TSN will carry live beginning at 10:00 am Sask time. We asked Duane if he had any idea what the Riders will do with the 2nd and 4th overall picks in the first round."I have a little bit of an inkling," Forde reported. "I would say with one of those first two picks I wouldn't be surprised if they went with a linebacker. That's something that's been talked about a lot. And it wouldn't be shocking with as much depth as they have with Canadian O-linemen, that they take another one with one of those picks. I think everybody has to keep in mind that great warriors like Jeremy O'Day and Gene Makowsky aren't getting any younger."
"One thing I've always said with the CFL draft is that teams have more Canadians playing on the offensive line than at any other position so the CFL draft is always heavy on O-lineman. 2008 had a lot and I think next year will too but even it's a down year, you're going to see teams draft Canadian linemen because it's a position where you need the guys."
For a further recap of Forde's comments, Rider Stronson posted this at riderfans.com:
Duane Ford on Sportsline:
-Al Ford likes Sisco and he’s a scout for the Als
-Riders looking for DE’s, Stevie Baggs thru one mini-camp already with the Cardinals
Forde came on and expounded on:
-Forde loves the process of team building and is a self-described draft junkie
-Media coverage has increased greatly and its made teams more accountable
-LB Cory Greenwood and others signing with the NFL or mini-camp invites makes the waters muddy, some teams will have to take gambles and leaps of faith
-Forde thinks some teams will draft the best player available despite the migrations to the NFL, mini-camps and signings
-Figures Greenwood is still going to go high in the draft
-Interesting news here: Shomari Williams has turned down some Free Agent offers from NFL teams and has committed himself to the CFL. Forde figures Toronto is a possibility for him
-Ideas of where the Riders are leaning? Forde has an inkling. One may be used on a LB and he wouldn’t be shocked if the second is on a Canadian O-lineman due to the age of people like Makowsky and O’Day and Wayne Smith coming off a serious injury
-The CFL Draft always has teams drafting a lot of Canadian offensive linemen because the position is weighted towards that in the CFL
-Jordan Sisco? Is in the same boat as Shawn Gore, and those are mini-camp invites in the NFL with the Colts and Packers
-A reasonable chance they are coming back to the CFL because of no NFL financial commitment
-Fantuz not getting looks but Jordan Sisco has: Forde thinks the CIS guys are treated as developmental and projects whereas Fantuz is seen as a pro already. Different expectations.
-Wouldn’t be shocked if the Riders pull off a trade due to Taman’s history
-U of S and U of R prospects that may go high: Jordan Sisco is considered in the top two for receivers on most people’s boards. He mentioned in particular from the U of S offensive guard Patrick Neufeld and Grant Shaw as a potential kicker in the CFL.
-TSN covering the draft a great thing for the CFL.
John Lynch is convinced the Riders will draft Cory Greenwood and Eddie Steele and may make a play for the 1st overall pick by trading some offensive linemen to the Argos
RIDER PRIDE ON THE ISLAND
This photo comes from blog friend Evan Hammond on Vancouver Island:"Got joined up on the course here in Port Alberni, BC, with an older gent named Gerry who has this plate on his cart.
He's been out here a while now, originally from Craven. Says that this was the only thing his wife allowed him to put on the cart!"
DON'T EXPECT PATS TO TRADE PICK
The Regina Pats hold the fifth overall pick in Thursday's WHL bantam draft in Edmonton. Yesterday the team held a media gathering to discuss their plans and it appears they'll hang onto that selection rather than trade it.
"I don't think it's something we're going to pursue super heavily," said GM Brent Parker. "If there's something there, we'll look at it. The fact is that we believe there's a lot of depth in this draft and we think we can get players in later rounds that we may have had in rounds 2, 3, 4. Lots of teams are going to get players late that will pan out as great WHL players."
Pats head scout Todd Ripplinger is pleased to have that 5th selection.
"Obviously with that high pick we have to make it count," Ripplinger stated. "Every pick has to count actually. Going into the day we have a good top 5 on our list and we're excited about how Thursday's going to go. We have five good players identified so we'll get one of them for sure."
You can follow the draft online at www.whl.ca.
"I don't think it's something we're going to pursue super heavily," said GM Brent Parker. "If there's something there, we'll look at it. The fact is that we believe there's a lot of depth in this draft and we think we can get players in later rounds that we may have had in rounds 2, 3, 4. Lots of teams are going to get players late that will pan out as great WHL players."
Pats head scout Todd Ripplinger is pleased to have that 5th selection.
"Obviously with that high pick we have to make it count," Ripplinger stated. "Every pick has to count actually. Going into the day we have a good top 5 on our list and we're excited about how Thursday's going to go. We have five good players identified so we'll get one of them for sure."
You can follow the draft online at www.whl.ca.
Monday, April 26, 2010
PATS PICK FIFTH OVERALL
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Regina, Saskatchewan – The future stars of the Western Hockey League will be front and centre this Thursday with the annual Bantam Draft. This year the focus will be on players born in 1995 that hail from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and the Western United States.The Regina Pats are set to pick in the 5th overall spot, and then do not have a pick until the 3rd round, when they will have two selections. Here is a rundown of the Pats draft positions in the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft:
1st Round – 5th overall
3rd Round – 47th overall (received in Carter Ashton, Craig Orfino deal),
3rd Round – 49th overall
5th Round – 91st overall (received in Linden Rowat deal)
6th Round – 115th overall
7th Round – 137th overall
8th Round – 159th overall
9th Round – 181st overall
10th Round – 203rd overall
The Pats are without their 2nd round pick (sent to Lethbridge in Carter Ashton/Craig Orfino deal in December of 2009), 4th round pick (sent to Swift Current in Jessie Dudas deal in January of 2009) and their 5th round pick (sent to Red Deer in Scarborough/Perrault deal in Sept. 2008).
Keep up to date with the Pats Bantam Draft progress this Thursday on reginapats.com, Facebook and on Twitter.
Wednesday is also a big day with the Western Hockey League Awards banquet where Pats forward Jordan Eberle is up for the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy recognizing the WHL’s Player of the Year.
Regina Pats season tickets are now on sale, fans have until May 31st to get in on the early bird price discounts. Call the Pats office at 522-PATS or head to reginapats.com for more details.
CFL READY FOR DRAFT
Toronto, ON (April 26, 2010) - A new class of future CFL superstars takes centre stage on Sunday, as teams look for the next Ben Cahoon or Andy Fantuz in the 2010 CFL CANADIAN DRAFT The 2010 CFL CANADIAN DRAFT will also be available on-demand at TSN.ca , and fans can follow the final four rounds of the draft through real-time updates on CFL.ca
Host Rod Black is joined in studio by CFL analysts Chris Schultz, Matt Dunigan and Glen Suitor, as they analyze the eight teams' needs and break down each pick chosen in the first two rounds. CFL ON TSN analyst Duane Forde, who has covered the DRAFT on five previous occasions, is
part of an additional panel of experts, including Saint Mary's Huskies head coach Steve Sumarah and McMaster Marauders head coach Stefan Ptaszek, and TSN's Farhan Lalji, who in more than 20 years of coaching football at various youth levels has seen more than 40 of his players go
on to play at the collegiate level. The panel will assess each draft pick's strengths and weaknesses and analyze how they fit in with their new team. TSN's coverage of the 2010 CFL CANADIAN DRAFT also includes reaction from CFL general managers and interviews with newly-drafted players in studio.
Leading up to the 2010 CFL CANADIAN DRAFT, TSN.ca will feature draft webisodes looking at the off-season changes and possible draft needs of each CFL team. TSN.ca will also have the first two rounds of the draft available on demand.
TSN's coverage of the 2010 CFL CANADIAN DRAFT begins with the Toronto Argonauts on the clock with the first overall pick. The six-round draft features eligible Canadian players from the CIS and NCAA. The top prospects include: Queen's University linebacker Shomari Williams from Toronto, ON; University of Nevada offensive lineman John Bender from Three Hills, AB; Concordia University linebacker Cory Greenwood from Kingston, ON; Baylor University offensive lineman Danny Watkins from Kelowna, BC; and Washington State University offensive lineman Joe Eppele from Brackendale, BC.
Once again, TSN is the ultimate destination for all things Canadian football, as the network will televise every single CFL game - including the playoffs and the GREY CUP - in High Definition. The CFL ON TSN season kicks off on Canada Day (July 1) with an opening night doubleheader featuring Montreal @ Saskatchewan at 7 p.m. ET in a rematch of last year's GREY CUP final, immediately followed by Toronto @ Calgary at 10 p.m. ET.
THE MONDAY MORNING GOALIE
WELCOME TO DRAFT WEEK! You're going to hear lots and lots of talk on this blog, in the newspapers and over the airwaves about the Canadian Football League and Western Hockey League Drafts over the next couple of days. The WHL Draft is set for Thursday in Edmonton and you can follow that online while the CFL Draft goes this Sunday with the first two rounds carried live on TSN.
Former CFL fullback Duane Forde of TSN has become Canada's Mel Kiper (the well-known ESPN draft analyst) and generally nails the first round picks of each team every year. Duane will join us on Sportsline tonight to discuss Sunday's Draft. We'll also see if CKRM football analyst John Lynch has stopped crying over the Riders' release of Graham Harrell, we plan to hear from Arizona Cardinals linebacker Stevie Baggs and hopefully we'll have something from the Pats too. It's going to be a good show, kicking off a busy week.
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If you plan to follow the CFL draft on TSN you may want to print off this downloadable draft guide put together by the guys at CFLDaily.com. You can get it here:
http://www.cfldaily.com/DraftGuide.pdf
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On the front page of today's Leader Post Roughrider linebacker Tad Kornegay says he was misquoted in a Wall Street Journal article last week where they had him saying half the Roughriders smoke pot. Coach Ken Miller spoke with Kornegay about his comments Sunday and said "I feel good about what he told me". The stupid thing is Tad says he doesn't even use the stuff and I believe him.
Either way a report like this makes it somewhat awkward to do anti-drug presentations like the one I'll do Saturday night at the Estevan Minor Football fundraising dinner. BY THE WAY only 16 tickets are left for the dinner which means it's 99% soldout. Estevan Motors and Estevan's House of Stationary are sponsoring my appearance and will have advance tickets available this week. It's advance tickets only! Can't wait for Saturday.
I'll also be talking about how the Riders have changed as a franchise in my time with the team (which dates back to 1991) and tell some stories about some of the personalities who have come through here.
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The biggest news of the week was the Riders' release of Graham Harrell on Thursday. Rider GM Brendan Taman was reminded that Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has some time on his hands after being suspended six games last week.
"Yah he might me (available)," Taman laughed. "He makes more than our salary cap of the whole CFL. I don't think he's on our horizon any time soon."
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Back to the CFL draft. Rider coach Ken Miller made an interesting post on Twitter Sunday:
From: @Coach_Miller:
"Several players in the CFL draft have drawn attention or have been signed by teams in the NFL. We are going to have to re-evaluate our draft rankings and rearrange our draft board."
This is a good thing! It means the Riders have identified the right players. Now they just have to find more.
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Immediately after hearing the Indianapolis Colts signed Regina Rams receiver Jordan Sisco to a tryout, I wondered what star Rider slotback Andy Fantuz would think of that. He's dying for a shot at the NFL but hasn't had a sniff. However a source close to the Rams told me over the weekend "Sisco isn't anywhere near as good as Fantuz. Sometimes life isn't fair."
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I wouldn't be opposed to the Riders signing Kerry Joseph as a back-up to Darian Durant, especially since he's open to coming at a reduced salary. If you're against that simply because Kerry demanded more money after the 2007 season, then get over it. He played "chicken" against Eric Tillman and lost. It's over with. He's healthier than ever and could help the young quarterbacks as well. I say bring him in.
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Mind you we may have found the Riders' next quarterback. Read this:
"- Former Kansas University quarterback Todd Reesing, the school’s all-time leader in nearly every passing category, may be headed to the Canadian Football League.
After being bypassed in this weekend’s NFL Draft, Reesing currently is exploring his options to sign with an NFL club via free agency or take a chance in another league such as the CFL or the Arena League.
Rob Vanstone, of The Regina Leader-Post, a newspaper in Saskatchewan, reports that Reesing is on the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ negotiation list, which means the Roughriders own Reesing’s CFL rights. What’s more, several posts on Internet message boards associated with the team already are clamoring for the record-setting quarterback to come to town."
http://www2.kusports.com/news/2010/apr/26/reesing-looking-cfl/
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Here's a great idea ... Get your retro Rider pics out, scan them, and send them to the blog at sportsline@620ckrm.com. I'm talking about photos like the one below:
The Pollock brothers 25 years ago with Laurie Skolrood.
Ryan on the right, Chris on the left.
You MUST have something like that?
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The Regina Pats hold the #5 pick in Thursday's WHL bantam draft. I hope they don't trade it. A pick that high is a bonus for having a crappy season. They should be able to get a top-end player there.
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The Vancouver Giants' hockey season is done after falling 5-2 to Tri-City Sunday night, and the Americans take the WHL West Final in six games. They now advance to the WHL Final, the Ed Chynoweth Cup, against Calgary. The winner goes to the Memorial Cup.
The Brandon Wheat Kings have three weeks off to prepare for the Cup after losing the WHL East Final in five games. People are saying the Wheat Kings are going through the back door but I wouldn't agree. If anything they're going through the side door. They've proven they are a worthy host team and having the rest should help them immensely.
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Saturday night was a great time with the Sutters at Chilis in Regina. Chilis' manager Bruce is a great guy and said "Wow! I've never met a Sutter before!" Bruce managed The Keg years ago and I've always thought he had some sort of Australian or New Zealand accent. So Saturday night I asked him what his home country is. His answer was "Swift Current".
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When the Calgary Hitmen were through Regina last week they were looking for a fun team activity. I was asked for a recommendation and could only come up with Paradise mini-golf, Laser Quest, bowling or Wonderland Arcade on Broad Street. I also thought of the batting cages at Maxwell's Amusements but they've long been closed. REGINA NEEDS AN OUTDOOR MINI GOLF COURSE! Driving into Moose Jaw last night, their outdoor course was the first thing I saw.
What are some Regina activities that you would recommend to out-of-town visitors looking to pass some time, besides the usual RCMP and museums?
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I mentioned this is going to be a busy week. Tomorrow night I'll be speaking in Milestone at a writers/bloggers workshop for south eastern Saskatchewan authors. Tickets are available ahead of time at Milestone School, and it's advance tickets only. In the afternoon I'll be talking with Milestone high school students about writing, blogging and publishing. I haven't been in that place since the day I graduated.
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A lot of you have asked about blog commenter "Obama". Well here's an email I got from him on the weekend to be posted on today's Monday Morning Goalie:
"Mandi Schwartz is my cousin, and the sister of Rylan and Jaden Schwartz. They were all hockey players at Notre Dame. Unfortunately Mandi has had a bad break in her battle with leukemia. We are grateful for any help:
http://www.becomemyhero.org/mandi_schwartz/mandi_card.html
It's not lost on me that this is a huge favour you are doing for us. If there is anything I can ever do to return it please let me know."
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That's all I got for today. It's hard to write something funny after visiting that website. Please help out if you can and...
HAVE A GREAT WEEK!
RP
Sunday, April 25, 2010
WAY TO GO HOUNDS
LÉVIS, Que. – The Notre Dame Hounds have won their second-consecutive TELUS Cup following a 3-2 victory over the Mississauga Reps on Sunday afternoon in Lévis, Que in the gold medal game of the National Midget Championship.
Liam O'Brien (Halifax, N.S.) picked a great time to score his first goal of the tournament at 7:56 of the third period to break a 2-2 tie and give Notre Dame the lead. Slater Koekkoek (Mountain, Ont.) and Marcus Messier (Canmore, Alta.) also scored for the Hounds, who call Wilcox, Sask., home.
The win gives Notre Dame four gold medals at the National Midget Championship, which ties it with the Regina Pat Canadians for most all-time.
In Sunday's bronze medal game, the St. John's Fog Devils earned a 5-4 victory over the Gaulois du Collège Antoine-Girouard, ending Quebec's 12-year streak with a medal.
Liam O'Brien (Halifax, N.S.) picked a great time to score his first goal of the tournament at 7:56 of the third period to break a 2-2 tie and give Notre Dame the lead. Slater Koekkoek (Mountain, Ont.) and Marcus Messier (Canmore, Alta.) also scored for the Hounds, who call Wilcox, Sask., home.
The win gives Notre Dame four gold medals at the National Midget Championship, which ties it with the Regina Pat Canadians for most all-time.
In Sunday's bronze medal game, the St. John's Fog Devils earned a 5-4 victory over the Gaulois du Collège Antoine-Girouard, ending Quebec's 12-year streak with a medal.
The 26th Annual Moose Jaw Dance Carnival
SISCO A COLT
TSN's Duane Forde reports U of R Rams receiver Jordan Sisco has signed with the NFL's Indianapolis Colts.
Sunday Sports
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The San Jose Sharks are through to the second round of the post-season. Joe Pavelski scored a pair of goals, including the go-ahead score, in the Sharks' clinching 5-2 victory over Colorado. That eliminates the Avalanche in six games. The top-seeded Sharks are the first Western Conference team to advance to the second round.
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It's all even between the Lakers and Thunder. Kevin Durant
scored 22 points, Russell Westbrook added 18 points and eight assists, and Oklahoma City evened their first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers with a 110-89 victory in Game 4.
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The Tampa Bay Rays ripped through the Blue Jays' bullpen en route to a 9-3 victory. Toronto's relievers allowed seven runs in the eighth inning in the loss that spelled the end of their six-game road winning streak.
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Eight straight wins and counting for the San Diego Padres. Adrian Gonzalez homered for the second time in as many days as the Padres beat the Cincinnati Reds 5-0. Wade LeBlanc recorded his
first win of the season while Johnny Cueto took the loss
for the Reds.
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Gold and silver for Canadian curlers at the world senior
championships in Russia. Colleen Pinkney's rink from Truro, Nova Scotia scored four in the extra end to capture a dramatic 8-4 victory over Switzerland, in the women's final. Ottawa's Bruce
Delaney dropped a 4-3 decision to the United States in the men's final.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
QUEENS WIN…
Esso Cup Gold Medal Game in Regina
Thunder Bay 4
Notre Dame 3
Winning goal was a family affair! Kaitlyn Tougas had two goals including the game winner as Thunder Bay was crowned National Champions with a 4-3 win over the Notre Dame Hounds. Tougas' power play goal came at 11:24 of the third period and was assisted by her sister Courtney.
Bronze Medal Game
Edmonton 5
Regina 1
Edmonton got two goals from Kirsten Reeves and a goal and an assist from Jessica Sekulic on route to their bronze medal victory.
Thunder Bay 4
Notre Dame 3
Winning goal was a family affair! Kaitlyn Tougas had two goals including the game winner as Thunder Bay was crowned National Champions with a 4-3 win over the Notre Dame Hounds. Tougas' power play goal came at 11:24 of the third period and was assisted by her sister Courtney.
Bronze Medal Game
Edmonton 5
Regina 1
Edmonton got two goals from Kirsten Reeves and a goal and an assist from Jessica Sekulic on route to their bronze medal victory.
HEY REGINA! YOU'RE LOOKIN' GOOD
BROADCASTER TO THE RESCUE
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Tampa Bay Rays broadcaster and former major league manager Kevin Kennedy was among a group of eight men that subdued a man that threatened to blow up an airplane.
A Delta Air Lines flight from Los Angeles to Florida was diverted to Albuquerque early Friday after a passenger sprayed the first-class cabin with a water bottle, tried to open a cabin door and threatened to blow up the aircraft.
"When he started threatening bombs it was for real. I knew it was anyway," Kennedy said before Tampa Bay faced Toronto on Friday night. "We all kind of looked at him. The guy next to me, he was saying 'Hey buddy, let's calm down here.' We tried to talk him down but it wasn't happening. It was actually getting worse."
Passengers on Delta flight 2148 to Tampa subdued Stanley Dwayne Sheffield, 46. He was taken into federal custody after the plane landed at 1:30 a.m. Friday.
"There were seven other guys," Kennedy said. "A couple of young guys got there first. One kid flew up the aisle. We all were there. Probably four or five (guys) getting him down and the other guys helping. Eight in all."
FBI Supervisory Special Agent Darrin Jones said authorities do not believe the incident was related to terrorism.
Sheffield was charged with interference with flight crewmembers and destruction of aircraft.
(www.usatoday.com)
A Delta Air Lines flight from Los Angeles to Florida was diverted to Albuquerque early Friday after a passenger sprayed the first-class cabin with a water bottle, tried to open a cabin door and threatened to blow up the aircraft.
"When he started threatening bombs it was for real. I knew it was anyway," Kennedy said before Tampa Bay faced Toronto on Friday night. "We all kind of looked at him. The guy next to me, he was saying 'Hey buddy, let's calm down here.' We tried to talk him down but it wasn't happening. It was actually getting worse."
Passengers on Delta flight 2148 to Tampa subdued Stanley Dwayne Sheffield, 46. He was taken into federal custody after the plane landed at 1:30 a.m. Friday.
"There were seven other guys," Kennedy said. "A couple of young guys got there first. One kid flew up the aisle. We all were there. Probably four or five (guys) getting him down and the other guys helping. Eight in all."
FBI Supervisory Special Agent Darrin Jones said authorities do not believe the incident was related to terrorism.
Sheffield was charged with interference with flight crewmembers and destruction of aircraft.
(www.usatoday.com)
ESKS HAVE DRAFT HANGOVER
Byline: Gerry Moddejonge
SUNMEDIA
Big names? Big deal.
While the opening rounds of the NFL Draft captured all the hype and attention, the Edmonton Eskimos are just now starting to pay attention.
With names like Sam Bradford long, long gone and the fourth through seventh rounds taking place Saturday, the Eskimos and other CFL teams are finally perking up over the names that are left.
“I don’t care about them because I know we’re never going to see those guys. It’s all those tweeners that we may get to see,” Eskimos general manager Danny Maciocia said of the early round selections. “I have no interest in (Thursday) or (Friday), my interest is in (Saturday). Those are the guys I’m hoping are going to fall through so we can take a shot at them.”
“I’ve already spoken to most of them.”
And he’s had his work cut out for him with the depth in quality the NFL Draft offers this year.
“It’s so much deeper because there’s a record number of players that are juniors that are coming up,” he said. “There’s going to be some pretty good football players that are going to be available when all is said and done.
“We’ve got an opportunity to maybe secure one or two of them.”
It’s no coincidence that the CFL Draft is scheduled a week later.
“We just want to make sure that when we do pick, the players we are picking haven’t been drafted in the NFL,” Maciocia said of the northern league’s May 2 draft date. “It’s happened in the past where our draft was before, and we’re drafting players only to realize the following week that those guys are no longer there.
“We don’t want to get caught up in that.”
SUNMEDIA
Big names? Big deal.
While the opening rounds of the NFL Draft captured all the hype and attention, the Edmonton Eskimos are just now starting to pay attention.
With names like Sam Bradford long, long gone and the fourth through seventh rounds taking place Saturday, the Eskimos and other CFL teams are finally perking up over the names that are left.
“I don’t care about them because I know we’re never going to see those guys. It’s all those tweeners that we may get to see,” Eskimos general manager Danny Maciocia said of the early round selections. “I have no interest in (Thursday) or (Friday), my interest is in (Saturday). Those are the guys I’m hoping are going to fall through so we can take a shot at them.”
“I’ve already spoken to most of them.”
And he’s had his work cut out for him with the depth in quality the NFL Draft offers this year.
“It’s so much deeper because there’s a record number of players that are juniors that are coming up,” he said. “There’s going to be some pretty good football players that are going to be available when all is said and done.
“We’ve got an opportunity to maybe secure one or two of them.”
It’s no coincidence that the CFL Draft is scheduled a week later.
“We just want to make sure that when we do pick, the players we are picking haven’t been drafted in the NFL,” Maciocia said of the northern league’s May 2 draft date. “It’s happened in the past where our draft was before, and we’re drafting players only to realize the following week that those guys are no longer there.
“We don’t want to get caught up in that.”
FRIDAY'S PLAYOFF SCORES
Stanley Cup Conf Quarterfinals
Vancouver 7 Los Angeles 2
(Vancouver leads series 3-2)
Montreal 2 Washington 1
(Washington leads series 3-2)
Detroit 4 Phoenix 1
(Detroit leads series 3-2)
Buffalo 4 Boston 1
(Boston leads series 3-2)
---
WHL Conf Finals
Calgary 6 Brandon 1
(Hitmen win series in 5)
Tri-City 4 Vancouver 1
(Americans lead 3-2)
THUNDER BAY QUEENS AND NOTRE DAME HOUNDS TO PLAY FOR GOLD MEDAL AT 2010 ESSO CUP
REGINA, Sask. – The stage is set for an exciting gold medal game at the 2010 Esso Cup between the Notre Dame Hounds (West) and the Thunder Bay Queens (Ontario).
The game can be seen today live on TSN2, with the puck dropping at 4 pm Sask time.
The game can be seen today live on TSN2, with the puck dropping at 4 pm Sask time.
Friday, April 23, 2010
TELUS CUP SEMI'S SET
LÉVIS, Que. – The playoff matchups are set at the 2010 TELUS Cup, with the Gaulois du Collège Antoine-Girouard, Mississauga Reps, Notre Dame Hounds, and St. John's Fog Devils advancing to semifinal action on Saturday.
Antoine-Girouard finished in first place with a record of 3-0-2 and will face fourth-place finisher Mississauga (2-2-1). The second seed will be Notre Dame (2-0-3), which will take on the third-seed St. John's (2-1-2).
The host Lévis Commandeurs and Red Deer Optimist Rebels, both of whom sported 1-4-0 records, have been eliminated from playoff contention.
Saturday's first semifinal will be held at 4 p.m. ET, with the second semi going at 7:30 p.m. ET. Both games can be seen live on FastHockey, by going to www.hockeycanada.fasthockey.com.
The two semifinal winners will meet on Sunday for the gold medal at 12:30 p.m. Sask time.
The gold medal final can be seen on TSN and RDS (check local listings for specific broadcast times).
Antoine-Girouard finished in first place with a record of 3-0-2 and will face fourth-place finisher Mississauga (2-2-1). The second seed will be Notre Dame (2-0-3), which will take on the third-seed St. John's (2-1-2).
The host Lévis Commandeurs and Red Deer Optimist Rebels, both of whom sported 1-4-0 records, have been eliminated from playoff contention.
Saturday's first semifinal will be held at 4 p.m. ET, with the second semi going at 7:30 p.m. ET. Both games can be seen live on FastHockey, by going to www.hockeycanada.fasthockey.com.
The two semifinal winners will meet on Sunday for the gold medal at 12:30 p.m. Sask time.
The gold medal final can be seen on TSN and RDS (check local listings for specific broadcast times).
FRIDAY RODSERVATIONS
Here's a collection of thoughts that have entered this sports blogger's mind over the past five days. Oh, and happy weekend!:
- The Roughriders have started a trend! A few months after the 13th man debacle in the Grey Cup, the Minnesota Vikings were called for the same thing in the conference title game. Now, in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, TSN's Darren Dreger reports "too many men" has been called 16 times SO FAR in the first round. Last year that penalty was called a total of 17 times through FOUR rounds.
- Dreger was the last Voice of the Brandon Wheat Kings before current Wheaties broadcaster Bruce Luebke. Dregs' last season in the Dub was my first. And did you know he's a proud product of MacNutt, Saskatchewan?
- It's been brought to my attention that blog comments are down even though blog hits have remained pretty steady near 4000 per day. I'm told many readers are afraid to post comments and be "cyber attacked" by the bullies. But don't let the bullies win! I'll try to keep a tighter rein on what gets posted if it will make you feel more comfortable posting your thoughts. The comments section is the best part of this blog but if you're going to wade into the cesspool, get a thick skin and wear a helmet!
- Sometimes it would be real interesting to find out who these anonymous commenters are. I used to post on the Dallas Stars message board under the name "Tincup" and got in some real fights. I never posted my real name for fear of the Stars finding out I was one of their scouts' kids. But I fit the profile of a message boarder at the time; 20s, fat, no life.
- The A-Train (my 10-year old daughter) reported a Roughrider was at her school talking about bullying recently. She couldn't remember his name but said "He was white, and said he was the shortest guy on the Roughriders". So I replied, "Was it Weston Dressler?" and she said, "That's the one." What do you expect from a kid whose favourite player is Milt Stegall?
- A note from one of Regina's classiest gentlemen, Gary Brotzel, of the Regina Red Sox: "The Regina Red Sox are looking for billets to host their import players for the 2010 WMBL season. Host families will be compensated. For further information, including an application form, visit http://www.reginaredsox.com/.
- Dauphin won the Anavet Cup last night with a 6-1 victory over La Ronge to take the series in five. In the WHL, Tri-City bombed Vancouver 5-2 to tie up the West Final at 2-2. Tonight Brandon faces elimination in Calgary in Game 5 of the East Final.
- The semifinals are set at the Esso Cup at Regina's Cooperators Centre. Today at 2:00 it's Thunder Bay against Edmonton and at 7:00 it's the Regina Rebels up against Notre Dame.
- Welcome to Saskatchewan where the release of the pro football team's fifth string quarterback generates an 18-page thread on a message board and the local newspaper calls it "BREAKING NEWS" on their website. Good Lord. We do love football here don't we?
- Rider GM Brendan Taman predicted Denver would take Florida's Tim Tebow in the first round of the NFL Draft. And it happened.
- The CFL Draft is coming up next Sunday. TSN's Duane Forde will join us on Sportsline Monday to discuss it. CFL GMs loathe discussing the Draft in interviews leading up to it. They don't want to give the other teams any indication of which way they're leaning. WHL GMs are the same way. Most of them anyways. Drafts, to me, are a pain in the a$$. We've never heard of 95% of these players and 60-70% of them will never play in the WHL or CFL yet people go all gaga around draft time.
- Arizona Cardinals LB Stevie Baggs is expected to join us on Sportsline Monday as well. In our discussion about it yesterday he said "I appreciate your positive energy." That was nice. And a positive attitude helped him get to the NFL.
- Saints quarterback Drew Brees will be on the cover of Madden 11.
- Saw a guy in the Tim Hortons on Rochdale Blvd the other day with a Montreal Alouettes T-shirt and a Roughriders jacket. Talk about an identity crisis. My Dad would say "That guy's in a fight with himself."
- I knew the Regina Pats were in trouble when, on a road trip to Brandon, I heard one of the players listening to Party In The USA by Miley Cyrus on his Ipod. I almost got up, snatched it, and stomped it into pieces on the floor of the bus. Thankfully that player is no longer with the team. Leffler, Teubert and the boys were much more into ACDC and Van Halen. But trainer Greg Mayer yelled to the back of the bus "That's OUR music! Get your OWN music!"
- I bought an Ipod Touch the other day and proceeded to download 175 George Strait songs onto it. I called my oldest brother Lee, the cowboy, and proudly told him what I'd done. His reply? "You sick bastard."
- Later that night I dreamt I introduced George Strait on stage at Craven. Funny thing is, my CKRM co-worker Perry Nyhus actually DID that so when you think about it, Perry Nyhus is living my dream.
- Check out my brother Lee's brand new website http://www.pedersenhorses.com/. It's the latest and greatest on the web.
- Conservation officers are warning Regina residents to be careful when walking near Wascana Lake following a rare cougar sighting earlier this week. Gary Provencher of the Ministry of Environment says the animal crossed the path of a bus near the Conexus Arts Centre. There were some cougar sightings at the Press Box Sports Bar last night as well. I was there with Nathan Morrison.
- A tip of the cap to Four Seasons Sports Bar owner/manager George Yannitsos for covering Jeff Armstead and my lunch tab this week. George reports that having no Leafs, Flames or Oilers in the Stanley Cup Playoffs has put a damper on business, but business is still good.
- The Toronto Star's Chris Zelkovich reports attendance has dropped 10% at Argonauts games in each of the past two seasons. The club was a combined 7-29 in that period. Now, they're considering insituting blackouts to spur ticket sales. Two words; BAD IDEA. Try winning and see if that helps.
- Rider LB Tad Kornegay was rocked this week by a murder-suicide in a family in which he was close to. Yes fans, these guys live in a different world than you and me.
- By Tuesday of this week, the 2010 Esso Cup in Regina had already sold more tickets than the 2009 Esso Cup in Calgary. Nice. Mitchell Blair's been broadcasting two games per day on fasthockey.com and his voice is barely hanging on. I did nine games in nine nights at the 2001 Memorial Cup and just barely made it through. It's quite difficult. I prescribed Scruffy some Altoids the other day at the rink but I don't know if they worked.
- What's Jim Balsillie doing these days?
- When a bunch of gophers are standing in a circle around a flattened gopher on a gravel road, are they having some sort of primal funeral? I see it all the time and always wonder.
- For Rider fans, just in time for the 2010 season, today we introduce Watermelon Sour Puss. Pats equipment manager Leigh Fitzpatrick doubles as a rep for Phillips Distillers and reports Watermelon Sour Puss is now available for $21.95. Leigh wants Rider Priders to try the "Watermelon Crawl" which consists of 1/2 oz of Sour Puss Watermelon, 1/2 oz of Canadian Whiskey, fill with cranberry juice, garnish with lime wedge and serve over ice! Or try a Melonhead Shot: half and half Sour Puss Watermelon and Canadian Whiskey. PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY!
- I heard a saying this week that goes like this: "Bad decisions make good memories." I couldn't DISAGREE more with that. I've made countless bad decisions and rarely do they make good memories.
- Don't know what the Press Box Friday lunch buffet is today, but we're gonna show up and find out. Perhaps we'll see you there...
HAVE A GREAT WEEK!
RP
- The Roughriders have started a trend! A few months after the 13th man debacle in the Grey Cup, the Minnesota Vikings were called for the same thing in the conference title game. Now, in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, TSN's Darren Dreger reports "too many men" has been called 16 times SO FAR in the first round. Last year that penalty was called a total of 17 times through FOUR rounds.
- Dreger was the last Voice of the Brandon Wheat Kings before current Wheaties broadcaster Bruce Luebke. Dregs' last season in the Dub was my first. And did you know he's a proud product of MacNutt, Saskatchewan?
- It's been brought to my attention that blog comments are down even though blog hits have remained pretty steady near 4000 per day. I'm told many readers are afraid to post comments and be "cyber attacked" by the bullies. But don't let the bullies win! I'll try to keep a tighter rein on what gets posted if it will make you feel more comfortable posting your thoughts. The comments section is the best part of this blog but if you're going to wade into the cesspool, get a thick skin and wear a helmet!
- Sometimes it would be real interesting to find out who these anonymous commenters are. I used to post on the Dallas Stars message board under the name "Tincup" and got in some real fights. I never posted my real name for fear of the Stars finding out I was one of their scouts' kids. But I fit the profile of a message boarder at the time; 20s, fat, no life.
- The A-Train (my 10-year old daughter) reported a Roughrider was at her school talking about bullying recently. She couldn't remember his name but said "He was white, and said he was the shortest guy on the Roughriders". So I replied, "Was it Weston Dressler?" and she said, "That's the one." What do you expect from a kid whose favourite player is Milt Stegall?
- A note from one of Regina's classiest gentlemen, Gary Brotzel, of the Regina Red Sox: "The Regina Red Sox are looking for billets to host their import players for the 2010 WMBL season. Host families will be compensated. For further information, including an application form, visit http://www.reginaredsox.com/.
- Dauphin won the Anavet Cup last night with a 6-1 victory over La Ronge to take the series in five. In the WHL, Tri-City bombed Vancouver 5-2 to tie up the West Final at 2-2. Tonight Brandon faces elimination in Calgary in Game 5 of the East Final.
- The semifinals are set at the Esso Cup at Regina's Cooperators Centre. Today at 2:00 it's Thunder Bay against Edmonton and at 7:00 it's the Regina Rebels up against Notre Dame.
- Welcome to Saskatchewan where the release of the pro football team's fifth string quarterback generates an 18-page thread on a message board and the local newspaper calls it "BREAKING NEWS" on their website. Good Lord. We do love football here don't we?
- Rider GM Brendan Taman predicted Denver would take Florida's Tim Tebow in the first round of the NFL Draft. And it happened.
- The CFL Draft is coming up next Sunday. TSN's Duane Forde will join us on Sportsline Monday to discuss it. CFL GMs loathe discussing the Draft in interviews leading up to it. They don't want to give the other teams any indication of which way they're leaning. WHL GMs are the same way. Most of them anyways. Drafts, to me, are a pain in the a$$. We've never heard of 95% of these players and 60-70% of them will never play in the WHL or CFL yet people go all gaga around draft time.
- Arizona Cardinals LB Stevie Baggs is expected to join us on Sportsline Monday as well. In our discussion about it yesterday he said "I appreciate your positive energy." That was nice. And a positive attitude helped him get to the NFL.
- Saints quarterback Drew Brees will be on the cover of Madden 11.
- Saw a guy in the Tim Hortons on Rochdale Blvd the other day with a Montreal Alouettes T-shirt and a Roughriders jacket. Talk about an identity crisis. My Dad would say "That guy's in a fight with himself."
- I knew the Regina Pats were in trouble when, on a road trip to Brandon, I heard one of the players listening to Party In The USA by Miley Cyrus on his Ipod. I almost got up, snatched it, and stomped it into pieces on the floor of the bus. Thankfully that player is no longer with the team. Leffler, Teubert and the boys were much more into ACDC and Van Halen. But trainer Greg Mayer yelled to the back of the bus "That's OUR music! Get your OWN music!"
- I bought an Ipod Touch the other day and proceeded to download 175 George Strait songs onto it. I called my oldest brother Lee, the cowboy, and proudly told him what I'd done. His reply? "You sick bastard."
- Later that night I dreamt I introduced George Strait on stage at Craven. Funny thing is, my CKRM co-worker Perry Nyhus actually DID that so when you think about it, Perry Nyhus is living my dream.
- Check out my brother Lee's brand new website http://www.pedersenhorses.com/. It's the latest and greatest on the web.
- Conservation officers are warning Regina residents to be careful when walking near Wascana Lake following a rare cougar sighting earlier this week. Gary Provencher of the Ministry of Environment says the animal crossed the path of a bus near the Conexus Arts Centre. There were some cougar sightings at the Press Box Sports Bar last night as well. I was there with Nathan Morrison.
- A tip of the cap to Four Seasons Sports Bar owner/manager George Yannitsos for covering Jeff Armstead and my lunch tab this week. George reports that having no Leafs, Flames or Oilers in the Stanley Cup Playoffs has put a damper on business, but business is still good.
- The Toronto Star's Chris Zelkovich reports attendance has dropped 10% at Argonauts games in each of the past two seasons. The club was a combined 7-29 in that period. Now, they're considering insituting blackouts to spur ticket sales. Two words; BAD IDEA. Try winning and see if that helps.
- Rider LB Tad Kornegay was rocked this week by a murder-suicide in a family in which he was close to. Yes fans, these guys live in a different world than you and me.
- By Tuesday of this week, the 2010 Esso Cup in Regina had already sold more tickets than the 2009 Esso Cup in Calgary. Nice. Mitchell Blair's been broadcasting two games per day on fasthockey.com and his voice is barely hanging on. I did nine games in nine nights at the 2001 Memorial Cup and just barely made it through. It's quite difficult. I prescribed Scruffy some Altoids the other day at the rink but I don't know if they worked.
- What's Jim Balsillie doing these days?
- When a bunch of gophers are standing in a circle around a flattened gopher on a gravel road, are they having some sort of primal funeral? I see it all the time and always wonder.
- For Rider fans, just in time for the 2010 season, today we introduce Watermelon Sour Puss. Pats equipment manager Leigh Fitzpatrick doubles as a rep for Phillips Distillers and reports Watermelon Sour Puss is now available for $21.95. Leigh wants Rider Priders to try the "Watermelon Crawl" which consists of 1/2 oz of Sour Puss Watermelon, 1/2 oz of Canadian Whiskey, fill with cranberry juice, garnish with lime wedge and serve over ice! Or try a Melonhead Shot: half and half Sour Puss Watermelon and Canadian Whiskey. PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY!
- I heard a saying this week that goes like this: "Bad decisions make good memories." I couldn't DISAGREE more with that. I've made countless bad decisions and rarely do they make good memories.
- Don't know what the Press Box Friday lunch buffet is today, but we're gonna show up and find out. Perhaps we'll see you there...
HAVE A GREAT WEEK!
RP
Thursday, April 22, 2010
TILLMAN COMMENTS ON RELEASE OF HARRELL
Former Rider GM Eric Tillman was the man who brought Graham Harrell - the record-setting QB from Texas Tech - to Saskatchewan. Below, Eric comments via email on the Riders' release of Harrell today:
Hi,
I have not spoken with the media since I resigned, but, in fairness to other people, I'll be glad to on this one.
No, I'm not totally surprised by the news. Here's a little history: when Graham came north he had an offer to play in the new UFL. That's the league where Denny Green, Jim Haslett, Jim Fassel, etc, all former NFL guys, were coaching. Many Canadians, with good reason, don't know much about that league, because it was on US cable only.
Anyway, Graham turned down a larger offer from them and came to Canada for about $4000 a game. It would have gone up to about $5000 a game this year, if I remember correctly. Why did he come to Saskatchewan for less money? One, because he loved the spread offense - Texas Tech's system has many CFL similarities. And, two, because when we initially recruited Graham, I told his agent we had three young quarterbacks (Durant, Jyles and Bell), and it was a great opportunity for Graham to come in and compete for the starting job at some point.
After he missed our training camp, we kept recruiting him hard, but I was honest - saying 2009 might prove to be nothing more than a developmental year. But, at the same time, trying to encourage him, too, by saying if Graham played well enough in practice, he certainly MIGHT get some playing time late in 2009.
As always, though, it was made clear that decision would be made by Ken Miller and the coaches. As everyone knows, Graham waited and waited on a second NFL opportunity, after attending the Browns mini camp in May, hoping Cleveland, or someone, would sign him. Given the NFL pay scale, we all understood that. When no NFL offers came their way, he finally agreed to come to Canada instead of the UFL - but, like I said, that was well after the Riders training camp was completed.
Graham's arrival, fortunately for us, but unfortunately for him, coincided with Darian playing very well. With that high level of play by Darian, and with the confidence the players and coaches had in him, the opportunity quickly wasn't what it might have been for Graham if he had participated in training camp.
Looking back, you have give credit to Kenny for believing in Darian, and to Darian for seizing the moment. Based on multiple conversations, though, the coaches all seemed to like and respect Graham very much after he arrived - and said they wished we had had him from day one.
But, in late September, shortly before the trade deadline (Oct 14th), his agent (Jon Persch) asked for us to trade Graham. He was very respectful, but stated strongly Graham felt with DD's emergence, he wouldn't ever have a fair chance to compete to be the starter in Saskatchewan. In particular, Jon mentioned Toronto, as a desired destination. I countered, suggesting, if he stayed, Graham would have a real chance to compete for the number two job in 2010; but that clearly wasn't what they preferred. Their response wasn't in a combative way at all - they were very complimentary of Darian, and the other qb's, too - but, it was crystal clear: Graham wanted to be somewhere where he could COMPETE to be the starter!
So, I spoke with Adam Rita at length on the phone, and we met in my home a few days later - the night before the Riders-Argos game in early October. That was right before the trade deadline. I gave Adam a college DVD of Graham at Tech for them to review. After they returned to Toronto, Adam and Bart looked at the DVD, and within a couple of days, we were talking specifics; but, unfortunately, we simply couldn't reach an agreement that I felt was fair to the Riders.
We had an offer in the west, too, but I felt it was a mistake to trade Graham within the division...especially, since that offer wasn't a first round draft pick, or even a second. We wanted a conditional number one pick, based on if Graham became a starter with his new team. Anyway, Adam and I agreed to talk further after the season. Obviously, things changed significantly with Bart Andrus and me leaving our positions, with Brendan and Kenny getting promotions, and with Jim Barker's arrival in Toronto.
My sense is the new Toronto regime really liked Dalton Bell, but any discussions regarding Dalton, Graham, etc, from early January on, should go through Kenny, Brendan or the Argonauts. In fairness to Kenny, and the staff, they did a great job developing Darian.
And, in total fairness to Brendan, who's a great guy, this Graham situation is a hot potato he simply inherited. So, if anyone's unhappy a trade wasn't consummated back then, please blame me, not Brendan or Kenny. In fairness to Graham, he has really had a tough year, or so.
His father - and they're very close - was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), and, then, his NFL dream didn't come to fruition. So, he comes to Canada wanting to PLAY, and, then, Darian grabs the starting job and plays his backside off. That happens in football, but, players are just human beings who wear jersey's for a living - they get frustrated just like the rest of us do. In truth, Graham's a really good young man, who's been dealt some lousy cards recently, especially with his Dad's illness.
Sorry this was long, but, there were many elements to Graham's situation, and I hope this helps clarify several aspects.
And, again, if there's any fault to be passed around, please blame me. We could have traded Graham last October, and I take responsibility for that.
Eric
TAMAN TALKS QBs
The audio is posted below..
For those not into downloading, the Riders released QB Graham Harrell and KOR Eric Morris today. Here's a snippet of what Rider GM Brendan Taman had to say about Harrell:
"Unfortunately, we talked to Graham over the past month or so and it became apparent quite clearly to us that he wasn't a happy camper. It was a tough situation for us to be put in, but myself and Coach Miller talked about it and we thought it best we parted ways. Basically it's a situation where you have an unhappy employee and there was basically no solution to it."
What's he unhappy about?
"A number of things. There were some things that happened last year that didn't go the way he wanted. And there were some contract issues that we weren't going to be able to resolve and like I said it was a case where it was time to move on."
Was he promised some things you weren't able to deliver?
"In his mind I guess there was yes. I can't really comment on that because I wasn't part of those discussions. It is what it is. The bottom line is this; if there's someone who's not happy here, we won't have them here whether it's a quarterback or a kicker or whatever it is. I think we'll be fine as we go in. We have a good locker room and didn't want to wreck that too much."
RIDERS RELEASE HARRELL
From: @Coach_KenMiller
Sometimes we experience situations where a player prefers not to stay with us. I am disappointed to report we are releasing Graham Harrell.
And the official release from the /=S=/:
RIDERS RELEASE TWO FROM ROSTER
The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced today they have released import quarterback Graham Harrell and import receiver/returner Eric Morris.
POLIAN: "BILLS NO THREAT TO CFL"
Colts president Bill Polian told Toronto media on a Wednesday morning conference call that, early in the offseason, Bills owner Ralph Wilson personally called him and asked for “a favour.”“Would you come to Toronto and play in the preseason?”
Polian, who started his career as a scout and a personnel man in the Canadian Football League, said he’d be honoured. And here we are, set for the Colts to come to Canada for a preseason game as part of the Bills Toronto Series on Aug. 19.
Polian noted that he spent lots of time in Toronto in his days as general manager of the Bills. He said he doesn’t think expansion is on the horizon, but that this series shouldn’t ruffle the CFL’s feathers.
“I’ve always believed that the CFL has a very special place in Canadian sports and that the CFL game is very unique and very special,” he said, ”and I don’t think that the introduction of the NFL into Toronto on a limited basis is really going to have any major effect on the CFL.”
“The CFL has a very special place in the Canadian sports culture and I don’t see that changing.”
http://blogs.thescore.com/nfl/2010/04/21/polianbills/
SGA GOLF TIP OF THE WEEK
SGA Rule of the Week – Finding Your Nearest Point of ReliefYou are entitled to free relief from immovable obstructions such as cart paths or buildings as well as abnormal ground conditions. Using the club you would make the stroke with, find the closest point that does not interfere with your swing or stance. This spot will vary depending on whether you are left or right handed. Use a tee to mark where the ball would sit and use any club to measure one club length from there, no penalty. You can clean your ball and remove any loose impediments prior to making your drop. Take complete relief or you are subject to penalty. Re-drop if your ball ends up in a hazard or closer to the hole. It is important to remember that the nearest point of relief is not necessarily the nicest point of relief. Relief may put you into a bush. After consideration you may just choose to play it as it lies.
For more information on the SGA’s programs and services please visit www.saskgolf.ca.
PLAYOFF HOCKEY ROUNDUP
Stanley Cup Conference Quarterfinals
West
Vancouver 6 Los Angeles 4
(Series tied 2-2)
East
Washington 6 Montreal 3
(Washington leads series 3-1)
The Canadiens' Brian Gionta:
Boston 3 Buffalo 2 (2-OT)
(Boston leads series 3-1)
WHL Eastern Conference Final
Calgary 4 Brandon 3 Kris Foucault 2G
(Calgary leads best-of-seven series 3-1 heading back to the Saddledome)
Anavet Cup (MJHL/SJHL)
Dauphin 5 La Ronge 3
(Dauphin leads best-of-seven series 3-1)
Esso Cup in Regina
Notre Dame Hounds 4 Regina Rebels 2
Brienna Gillenders had a goal and two helpers for the Hounds. Regina plays Richelieu today (4:30) on the final day of the round robin.
Telus Cup in Quebec
Notre Dame is tied for first with a win and two ties. They sawed off a 3-3 game against St. John's Wednesday and they play host Levis, Quebec today.
(Photo courtesy latimes.com)
CURLER TAKES "HURRY HARD" TOO FAR
VANCOUVER - Paralympic gold medal curler Jim Armstrong might be skipping his way into a U-S prison.
Armstrong, who just last month led the Canadian rink to victory in Vancouver, has been charged in a U-S court with trafficking counterfeit goods.
Documents filed in U-S District Court in Seattle accuse the 59-year-old of trying to smuggle thousands of counterfeit Viagra and Cialis pills into Canada.
Armstrong was taken into custody in Washington state April 15 and his arresting officer claims the former dentist told him he was picking up the pills so his son could distribute them at Vancouver-area clubs.
Armstrong has not commented publicly on the matter and the charges against him have not been proven in court.
He's due back in front of the judge on April 30, after he posted a 20-thousand dollar bond.
Armstrong's arresting officer alleges in the court documents the Richmond, B-C, resident told him he knew what he was doing was wrong.
(The Canadian Press)
Armstrong, who just last month led the Canadian rink to victory in Vancouver, has been charged in a U-S court with trafficking counterfeit goods.
Documents filed in U-S District Court in Seattle accuse the 59-year-old of trying to smuggle thousands of counterfeit Viagra and Cialis pills into Canada.
Armstrong was taken into custody in Washington state April 15 and his arresting officer claims the former dentist told him he was picking up the pills so his son could distribute them at Vancouver-area clubs.
Armstrong has not commented publicly on the matter and the charges against him have not been proven in court.
He's due back in front of the judge on April 30, after he posted a 20-thousand dollar bond.
Armstrong's arresting officer alleges in the court documents the Richmond, B-C, resident told him he knew what he was doing was wrong.
(The Canadian Press)
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
U OF R RAMS RELEASE SCHEDULE
Friday, Sept. 3 – Manitoba at Regina, 7pm
Friday, Sept. 10 – Regina at Calgary, 7pm
Saturday, Sept. 18 – Saskatchewan at Regina 7 pm
Friday, Sept. 24 – Regina at UBC, 7pm
Saturday, Oct. 2 – Alberta at Regina, 7pm
Saturday, Oct. 16 – Regina at Manitoba 2pm
Friday, Oct. 22 – Calgary at Regina, 7pm
Friday, Oct. 29 – Regina at Saskatchewan, 7pm
Saturday, Nov. 6 – Canada West semifinals
Saturday, Nov. 13 – Canada West final
Saturday, Nov. 20 – Mitchell Bowl
Saturday, Nov. 27 – Vanier Cup (Quebec City, Que.)
*All games on 620 CKRM or www.620ckrm.com
Friday, Sept. 10 – Regina at Calgary, 7pm
Saturday, Sept. 18 – Saskatchewan at Regina 7 pm
Friday, Sept. 24 – Regina at UBC, 7pm
Saturday, Oct. 2 – Alberta at Regina, 7pm
Saturday, Oct. 16 – Regina at Manitoba 2pm
Friday, Oct. 22 – Calgary at Regina, 7pm
Friday, Oct. 29 – Regina at Saskatchewan, 7pm
Saturday, Nov. 6 – Canada West semifinals
Saturday, Nov. 13 – Canada West final
Saturday, Nov. 20 – Mitchell Bowl
Saturday, Nov. 27 – Vanier Cup (Quebec City, Que.)
*All games on 620 CKRM or www.620ckrm.com
Weal Scores A Pair
From Twitter:
From: @HockeyCanada
Game over in Bobruisk - Canada avoids U18 relegation with a 5-1 win over Latvia. Tournament wraps up tomorrow (8:30 am ET) vs. Slovakia
BEN SLAPPED
NEW YORK - Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been suspended six games without pay for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy.
Commissioner Roger Goodell made the announcement Wednesday.
Roethlisberger also must undergo a ``comprehensive behavioural evaluation by medical professionals.''
The suspension could be reduced to four games for good behaviour after the behavioural evaluation is completed.
Last week, prosecutors decided not to charge Roethlisberger after a 20-year-old college student accused him of sexually assaulting her in a Georgia nightclub in March.
(The Associated Press)
INTERESTING OILERS NOTE
Hockey fans interested in securing Oilers season tickets now or in the future should join the Oilers Season Seat Registry at edmontonoilers.com.
GARCIA WOULD JOIN STAMPS
Byline: Eric FrancisCalgary Sun
CALGARY — Jeff Garcia is on his way to Calgary today where his football future will likely be decided.
No, the 40-year-old free agent isn’t here to talk contract with the Stampeders or join former teammate Dave Dickenson in the coaching ranks.
He’s here to speak at Thursday night’s University of Calgary Dinos Fifth Quarter Dinner at precisely the same time the NFL Draft gets underway.
“I definitely still want to play,” said Garcia from his home 30 minutes outside San Diego, where his wife and two kids decided a year ago to set down roots.
“There’s been some interest expressed from teams around the league, but I think a lot depends on the draft and whether certain teams make trades or stand pat. It’s just a matter of somebody pulling the trigger and offering me a contract. If anything happens, it should happen in the next week or two.”
One of the teams that has expressed interest is the Buffalo Bills — a possibility that has Garcia intrigued given the fact the team’s recently hired quarterback coach was Garcia’s offensive coordinator in Calgary in 1998.
“That’s definitely a possibility because George (Cortez) has that knowledge of me and what I’m capable of and what I can bring to a team,” said the four-time Pro Bowler and four-time CFL all-star, who said the rumoured possibility of signing with the New York Giants fizzled months back.
“There’s also been talk of returning to Philadelphia, where I could come in and help a young (Eagles) quarterback (Kevin Kolb). (The) St. Louis (Rams) expressed interest and are in a position where they’ll probably draft a quarterback, but they’ll need someone to step up and be a true starter.”
What the 650 people who will gather at Hotel Arts for the football fundraiser would most like to hear tomorrow is if Garcia would consider ending his pro career where it started — in Calgary.
“The thought has crossed my mind,” said Garcia, who took over Doug Flutie’s gig in 1995 and gave Henry Burris the nickname ‘Smilin’ Hank’ in ’98 before using Grey Cup MVP honours to sign with the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers.
“I would love to have the opportunity to return to Calgary and play in the CFL,” Garcia said. “I don’t know if it’s realistic, but it definitely would be tempting. I had a great experience there, and that game suits me.
“I couldn’t completely rule it out. I think I still remember that offence better than most I played under in the NFL.”
Playoff Roundup / Cherry Sounds Off
Stanley Cup Playoffs, Conference QuarterfinalsEast
Pittsburgh 7 Ottawa 4
(Pittsburgh leads series 3-1)
Philadelphia 4 New Jersey 1
(Philadelphia leads series 3-1)
West
Nashville 4 Chicago 1
(Nashville leads 2-1)
Detroit 3 Phoenix 0
(Series tied 2-2)
San Jose 2 Colorado 1 (OT)
(Series tied 2-2)
WHL Conference Finals
Eastern Conference
Calgary 6 Brandon 3
(Calgary leads best-of-seven series 2-1)
Western Conference
Vancouver 3 Tri-City 2 (OT) (Tomas Vincour GWG)
(Vancouver leads best-of-seven series 2-1)
Anavet Cup (MJHL/SJHL)
Dauphin 4 La Ronge 1
(Dauphin leads best-of-seven series 2-1)
Esso Cup
Regina 2 Edmonton 1 OT
- Samantha Langford made 38 saves for Regina. Andrea Ehrmantraut scored to tie it for the Rebels with 2 minutes to go and Brooklyn Moskowy scored in overtime.
Notre Dame 4 Moncton 3 OT
- Megan Vestby scored the OT winner for N.D.
Thunder Bay 5 Richelieu 1
The host Rebels play the Hounds tonight at 7:30. Olympic gold medallist from Team Canada Colleen Sostorics from Kennedy, Sask will be signing autographs between 4:00 and 5:00 today at the Cooperators Centre. Sostorics' Team Canada teammate Jessica Campbell will also be there.
Telus Cup in Quebec
ND Hounds 2 Antoine Girouard 2
(Hounds play St. Johns today)
Don Cherry says it's time for a new captain in Vancouver.
The popular hockey commentator criticized the Vancouver Canucks' use of goaltender Roberto Luongo as team captain on Tuesday's edition of CBC's ``Coach's Corner.''
He called the decision a ``dumb move'' and said goalies already have enough pressure on them without having to deal with leading a team.
``I know next year, he should ask not to be the captain,'' Cherry said.
Cherry said Luongo's captaincy wasn't necessarily the reason the Canucks are down 2-1 in their Western Conference series with the Los Angeles Kings, but he pointed out that benching the captain could have a demoralizing effect on the rest of the team.
Luongo allowed four goals in Vancouver's 5-3 loss to the Kings on Monday and was pulled in favour of backup goalie Andrew Raycroft.
``You see your best guy pulled and your captain sitting,'' Cherry said. ``You think that isn't (depressing)?''
Cherry also said that the importance of the 'C' in the NHL has diminished since players stopped voting for their captains.
(The Canadian Press)
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
RED WINGS CALL UP PYETT
Pyett, 21 (Milestone, Sask), was the lone Griffin to appear in all 80 games this season, making him one of just 18 players in franchise history to play in every regular season game during a campaign. While his 30 points (9-21—30) marked career highs in each scoring category, he also led Grand Rapids' defensemen in goals and ranked third among team blueliners in points.
Pyett will serve as a "black ace" during his time with the Red Wings, who will host Phoenix tonight at 4:30 p.m. Sask time in Game 4 of their Western Conference Quarterfinal series.
(www.griffinshockey.com)
OIL KINGS COACHING CHANGE
Edmonton, AB - Edmonton Oil Kings General Manager Bob Green today announced a change in leadership of Edmonton's WHL franchise.
Head Coach Steve Pleau and Assistant Coach Rocky Thompson will not return to their positions behind the Oil Kings bench for next season and will be leaving the organization.
"These are always the most difficult decisions, particularly when they involve people you respect and work very closely with," said Bob Green. "Steve and Rocky worked very hard over the past three years and they first and foremost should be thanked for their hard work and the time they dedicated to the Kings. However I feel we need to make a change prior to heading into next season."
Head Coach Steve Pleau and Assistant Coach Rocky Thompson will not return to their positions behind the Oil Kings bench for next season and will be leaving the organization.
"These are always the most difficult decisions, particularly when they involve people you respect and work very closely with," said Bob Green. "Steve and Rocky worked very hard over the past three years and they first and foremost should be thanked for their hard work and the time they dedicated to the Kings. However I feel we need to make a change prior to heading into next season."
DRESSLER DELIVERS ANTI-BULLY MESSAGE
Carlyle ObserverByline: Lizz Bottrell
"I was always the smallest kid and got picked on in school for it, " said Weston Dressler, a player with the Saskatchewan Roughriders as he addressed a gym full of students in Manor, Saskatchewan. "This alone sparked interest in this program for me because I didn't think people should have to go through this. "
Dressler came to Manor School April 12 to talk with students about the different types of bullying and harassment and the roles people play in encouraging or stopping the problem.
He started by explaining ways in which people bully others.
There is relational bullying, which is excluding someone for anything that is different; verbal bullying, which is using names to hurt someone; physical bullying, which can be kicking, hitting, pushing or anything that can physically hurt another person; and cyber bullying, which is using technology to bully someone.
As he explained the types of bullying, he would ask students to give their best their guesses at what the types meant before providing an explanation. Their hands would shoot up in the air and wave frantically as they wanted to give their answers before their friends. Most of their answers were right, leaving Dressler surprised at times.
He talked to students about what makes a person a bully, a victim, and a bystander. Students seemed to have an understanding of why a person becomes a bully and that sometimes people who are victims become a bully too.
"A victim of bullying can be anyone in this room at any time for any reason, " said Dressler. "But you have to remember, it's not your fault for being a victim. "
Dressler told students the most important role in the situation is the bystander because they have the ability to encourage the bully or stop the bully. He explained that someone who stands by and does nothing acts as an audience to the bully and actually encourages the bully to continue being mean to the victim.
He encouraged students who are bystanders to get involved by telling someone who can help the situation.
The Saskatchewan Roughrider spent the last few minutes of his presentation talking to students about harassment. Harassment is protected under the law and differs from bullying because bullying is intentional behavaviour whereas harassment is about the impact.
Dressler spoke to kids in a clear, conversational language which kept them engaged for the entire hour and 15 minute long presentation. And when he finally finished his anti-bullying presentation, he let students pick his brain on his career with the Riders.
Many kids asked about the worst hit he took, injuries he's sustained and why he came to play in Canada when he's from the United States. One young boy stuck up his hand and asked a question which received many laughs from students and teachers in the large gym.
"Has anyone bullied the 13th man, " asked the young boy.
Dressler answered the question with ease and confidence, explaining that the 13th man wasn't just one guy.
"We have 42 guys who dress for a game and seven or eight coaches, " he said. "Everyone is talking and communicating all the time. Our defence was out on the field, we have three different teams that go out. With the defence team, some stay on the field and some come off. People have to talk to each other so everyone knows the plan. What happened that day was mis-communication. One player thought he was supposed to be on for the play because he just wasn't told otherwise. "
"So no, no one got bullied for the 13th man. "
Manor School was able to host Dressler for the anti-bullying presentation because they raised money through a unique fundraising campaign.
"We collected pennies and nickels, " said Rhiannon Miller, a grade three and four teacher who organized the fundraiser. "We placed buckets outside the classrooms and students would put pennies and nickels in the buckets. "
"Each penny was worth one point and each nickel was worth minus five points, " she continued. "Students could take nickels to another class's bucket and give them minus points. "
The students enjoyed the friendly competition and the winning classroom got to spend the noon hour with Dressler. As luck would have it for Miller, her grade three and four class won with $120 in pennies. In total, the school raised $670 in just four days.
Dressler spoke to students in Manor School as part of the "RespectED" program run by the Red Cross. The program aims to prevent bullying by educating youth.
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