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FRIDAY RODSERVATIONS

2012-01-27T05:34:00.010-07:00

* NHL All-Star Weekend is upon us and hockey's top two stars, Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin, are not in Ottawa for the proceedings. Crosby may never play again due to dirty hits while Ovechkin is suspended for a dirty hit. Tell me again that hockey isn't broken? Yah right.

* It was looking for a long while like Oilers star Jordan Eberle was going to be the last one picked in last night's Fantasy Draft. However he ended up going 33rd overall to Team Chara.   The last overall honour went to Sharks forward Logan Couture.

* Actually the NHL is broken, but not hockey all together. The WHL is doing extraordinarily fine. But let's be honest, the NHL IS hockey and it's got some major problems.

* It's somebody new every night, making a dirty hit. The other night in St. Louis, Penguins' chief punk Matt Cooke ran the Blues' Barrett Jackman through the end boards and crashed his mouth off the dasher. Barrett won't miss any playing time but the former Regina Pats captain responded with this text message Wednesday morning when I asked if he's okay, "Little stiff but will live." It's got to stop.

* Regina Pats radio/TV analyst Jared Dumba figures the NHL and CHL should legalize "clutching and grabbing" again. This way oncoming forecheckers would be slowed down. If you combine that with softer equipment and less-rigid boards, you've got a winner. Actually, it's the way things were before everyone was getting hurt.

* Want a testimonial about how well major junior hockey is doing? 34 CHL graduates have been invited to participate in NHL All-Star Game events this weekend including 2011 first-round pick Ryan Nugent-Hopkin of the Edmonton Oilers.

* Of those, 12 WHL graduates have been chosen to play in the All-Star Game.

* Regarding Tim Thomas snubbing the Bruins' White House visit this week in an anti-government protest -- get in the net, shut your $#%*-ing mouth and stop the puck.

* Regarding Alex Ovechkin snubbing the All-Star Weekend -- perhaps Team 1200 Ottawa's A.J. Jakubec put it best on the Sports Cage this week: "I bet the people at Mr. Big are really pleased Ovechkin turned down this opportunity. How much are they paying him to be their spokesman and sell their chocolate bars?"

* Former NHL enforcer Stu Grimson called Ovechkin's decision "regrettable" on the Sports Cage on Tuesday. An online dictionary defines regrettable as "giving rise to regret; undesirable; unwelcome."

* Get this: The Grim Reaper's appearance on my radio show this week had only 30 digital downloads after the fact. However our in-studio interview with new Rider coach Corey Chamblin was downloaded over 500 times.   And people wonder why that show - and this blog - are football-heavy. You know who you are.

* Gotta love Regina Pats coach Pat Conacher. On Monday night he laughed out loud at the "Pedersen Jinx" where I said every time I go to a Pats game, they lose.   Conacher said on the Cage "You're not the problem. Come on out to our games!" So with that in mind, I'm going to tonight's Pats-Broncos game in the Brandt Centre on Rick Rypien Bobblehead Night.

* On Monday's radio show I asked Conacher if he'd ever consider coaching the Oilers, since the Edmonton Sun's Terry Jones says the job will be open soon. Conacher said if they approached him, he'd listen however he's focused on the Pats right now. Conacher won a Stanley Cup with the Oilers in 1984.

* I have no problem with the bobbleheads honouring Rick tonight. Initially I was squeamish about it but now I see it for what it is; a chance to honour one of the great all-time Pats captains and a guy who left us too early. What are you gonna do, retire his jersey? No.   This is a good way to remember him.

* I love Jordan Weal, you know that. But I don't care for the jersey tuck.

* Going to tonight's game means I will have to foresake High Impact Wrestling tonight at the Victoria Club. I hate to miss it but the Pats come first. The bell rings at 8:00 pm.

* Also tonight, the U of R Cougar womens basketball team is home to Winnipeg at the Cookhouse. The Cougars are off to their best start in franchise history.

* Hayley Wickenheiser is scheduled to be in town tonight as the U of C Dinos take on the U of R Cougars in womens hockey at 7:30 at the Cooperators Centre.

* Speaking of the U of R, here's the Scoop du Jour: TSN's Jay Onrait will be the guest speaker at this year's Rams fundraising dinner. Onrait used to be a stand-up comic and as far as I'm concerned, this is can't-miss.

* The Regina Humane Society held its annual telethon on Sunday and several local celebrities took part. Remember in the 90s when Pats fan favourite Joey Bouvier lost his dog 'Buddy' for several days and the whole city was on Red Alert? As I recall, Joey got Buddy back and a week later he hosted the Humane Society telethon on TV and was a parade marshall too.   Good times.

* CKRM radio engineer Ian Ratcliffe is off to the Pro Bowl in Hawaii today. He won the trip by going to Boston Pizza on Rochdale Blvd EVERY Monday night for Monday Night Football. Leave Hawaii the way you found it Ian.

* How I miss Harry Neale on Hockey Night In Canada. The other day Sportsnet was replaying all-time gaffes and they showed Martin Brodeur misplaying a long shot in the 2003 Stanley Cup Finals against Anaheim. "Even Betty Crocker burns the odd cake!" Harry told the nation on CBC.   It's too bad what that show has become.

* Sportsnet's Brad May had a great line this week when discussing Montreal Canadiens super-pest P.K. Subban and whether or not the Habs should trade him. "I'd rather try to tame a tiger than paint stripes on a kitty cat," May said.

* The BC Lions will soon be announcing Kelly Bates will be promoted to running backs coach and will take on some additional duties. The Humboldt, SK product told me this week TSN's Farhan Lalji reported it first after a conversation with Mike Benevides however the team has yet to make it official.   Kelly will be on the radio with us next week once it is.

* From the Lucky Buggers department: Lions stars Travis Lulay and Paul McCallum are kicking off a B.C.-wide tour with the Grey Cup this weekend all over the lower mainland and Vancouver Island. Next week the Cup hits the B.C. Interior with stops in Penticton, Vernon, Kamloops, Cariboo and Nelson. That leg of the journey will be hosted by Geroy Simon, Angus Reid and J.R. LaRose.   Also from this same department, New England Patriots star Wes Welker got engaged this week to former Miss Hooters International, Anna Burns.

* While researching that photo, I came across another great one from a bar in Denver:

* Why can I see Four Seasons Sports Palace owner George Yannitsos putting on his billboard "FANTUZ DRINKS HERE"?

* CFL Hall of Famer Henry "Gizmo" Williams joins Scott Schultz and me on FOUR SEASONS FOOTBALL FRIDAY on the Sports Cage today at 5:00 on 620 CKRM.

* Don't look now but other CFL teams have approached Stu Foord about a contract. He's one of the 10 or so free agents the Riders have left. Watch it boys - don't want to be accused of tampering!

* Jason Clermont revealed on Twitter this morning he's been offered a 3-year contract. Check out his Twitter account.

* Friends came back from a late-season Vikings game and had a great marketing idea for the Riders: have alumni in a booth on the practice field before games signing autties. It's something the Vikings do each game as they recognize their greats and the fans get to meet their heroes. Make a small donation to a charity for a picture and/or autograph and you've got a winner.

* THE RINGS ARE HERE!

The NBA champion Dallas Mavericks got their rings at a splashy ceremony this week. They're worth $40,000 a pop. It's interesting because Mavs owner Mark Cuban said after they beat the Heat to win the championship that he was going to do something different than rings for his players. He must have been talked out of it.

And the Regina Red Sox received their WMBL championship rings too. Team President Gary Brotzel stopped by the Sports Cage this week to let us have a look. Here's another look with the ring on my finger:

* The stir of the week in the NBA: The Lakers beat the crosstown Clippers 96-91 in the Staples Center Wednesday night to reaffirm their market dominance. Afterwards Lakers' big man Pau Gasol patted Clippers point guard Chris Paul on the head. Gasol is a waste of a jersey.

* That weekend female deejay on XM Satellite Radio Prime Country channel sounds like she smokes two packs a day and drinks two pots of coffee before her shift. I love it. Old school.

* If I'm listening to FM radio (usually for country but sometimes not) and the deejay talks for more than 30 seconds, then it's CLICK! If I want talk, I'll listen to talk. Sometimes I want tunes and don't need some deejay talking for the sake of talking.

* Another Tim Hortons reference: did they hoop themselves by upsizing their cups, but sticking with the same prices? As CKRM's Phil "The Thrill" Andrews said this week, "I won't order an extra large again. It's too big!" If more people feel this way, Tim Hortons won't be making as much money. Good ideas gone bad.

* Saw a gentleman working out in business casual clothes and sock feet this week at Gold's Gym. Love it. At least he's there.

* There's a Ravens fan in the gym and he came over to discuss their loss in the conference title game to the Patriots. I expected him to rip the team but he didn't. "They had a good run," he said. Now that's a fan.

* What would YOU do if you saw a friend's spouse on a match-making website?

* THIS guy....:

....Will be representing the Queen City at Super Bowl XLVI! He won the trip for two to Indianapolis at the Press Box Sports Bar Wednesday night. The staff was happy because he's a regular. I didn't catch the name.

* Today's Press Box Sports Bar Friday lunch buffet menu courtesy Chef Trent:
Roast Beef
Mashed Potatoes and gravy
Steamed vegetables
BBQ chicken wings
Sausage and Mushroom pasta
Garlic bread
Greek Chicken
Caesar Salad
Pizza
Various desserts

THANKS FOR READING - TALK TO YOU THIS AFTERNOON!
RP

PATS WEEKEND GAME NOTES

2012-01-27T03:12:00.000-07:00

Regina, Saskatchewan – Back to back Eastern Division games kick off tonight as the Regina Pats host the Swift Current Broncos at 7:00pm at the Brandt Centre. Tonight is also “Rick Rypien Bobblehead Night”. There are a limited number of bobbleheads available for a minimum donation of $2 with all of the proceeds raised going to KidSport. Saturday, the Pats will head north for another battle with the Saskatoon Blades at the Credit Union Centre.

Swift Current Broncos @ Regina Pats
Friday, January 27th, 2012
Brandt Centre 7:00pm (Tickets at www.ticketmaster.ca or call 543-7800)
Radio: 620 CKRM – (6:35 pregame show)

This is the fourth of six meetings this season between the Pats and the Broncos with Regina taking the first three meetings. This is the last game between these two clubs at the Brandt Centre this season.

Quick Notes courtesy of the Swift Current Broncos:

DID YOU KNOW:
Taylor Vause and Adam Lowry are currently over a point-per-game performers.

BRONCO RECORD BOOK:
Brad Hoban currently sits at 6th place on the Broncos All-Time Career Games Played List at 301 games. He is 14 games behind the 5th place Luke Hunter.

MIDTERM RANKINGS:
Rookie Coda Gordon has been ranked 38th amongst all North American skaters in the mid-term rankings by NHL Central Scouting for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, while Graham Black has been listed at 53rd.

Regina Pats @ Saskatoon Blades
Saturday, January 28th, 2012
Credit Union Centre 7:05pm (Tickets at www.ticketmaster.ca or call 543-7800)
Radio: 620 CKRM (6:40 Press Box Sports Bar pregame show start)

This is the sixth of eight meetings this season between these two long time Eastern Division rivals. The home teams won the first four games, but that changed with a 7-4 Blades win at the Brandt Centre on January 15th. Heading into the weekend, just one point separates the Blades and the Pats in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

Bridge City Bits:
- After losing five straight games, the Blades are one of the hottest teams in the WHL as they are winners of 9 of their past 11 games.
- Michael Burns is on a nine game point streak and over that time he has 5 goals and 10 assists for 15 points.
- 16 year old goaltender, Alex Moodie has played well for the injured Andrey Makarov. In the 10 games Moodie has played in January, he has won 8 of them with a shutout and a save percentage of .900

Weal Hits the 350 mark:
Jordan Weal’s overtime winner in Saturday’s 3-2 thriller over the Warriors was his 350th career point with the Pats. He is now just 3 points away from passing Doug Wickenheiser and Josh Holden for 6th on the all-time Pats point list. If he averages a little over a point a game the rest of the season, Jordan will pass Len Nielsen for fourth on the all-time list. His 226 assists places him 4th on the all-time Pats assist list, just 15 behind Mike Sillinger for 3rd.

Eberle off to the NHL All-Star Game:
Former Regina Pat star, Jordan Eberle is an injury replacement to play in Sunday’s NHL All-Star Game in Ottawa. During the All-Star Game Draft, Jordan was selected by Team Chara with the 17 pick. He will also take part in the Super Skills Competition on Saturday night.

Flex Packs!:
The Pats have 13 home games remaining during the second half of the season and the best and most affordable way to catch all of the action is by purchasing flex-pack. They come in packs of 8, 12 and 18 so you can build a Flex Pack around your schedule and budget! The deadline for purchasing a Flex Pack is January 31st, so call the Regina Pats office ASAP at 522-5604

CORY MITCHELL IS THE ULTIMATE PATS FAN

2012-01-27T00:49:00.000-07:00

Regina, SK, JANUARY 26, 2012 – He dressed up in his best Regina Pats attire and proved himself unrivalled in Pats trivia, besting all other participants to claim the “BMO Ultimate CHL Fan” title.

As the winner of the BMO Ultimate CHL Fan contest, held Wednesday at the BMO main office branch in Regina, Cory Mitchell will now be entered into a random draw with other BMO Ultimate Fans from across the Western Hockey League for a chance to win the grand prize: a trip for 2 to the 2012 MasterCard Memorial Cup. He also won a special signed CHL team jersey with the BMO Ultimate CHL Fan crest.

"The contest is a great opportunity for BMO to deepen its relationship with the community through our shared passion for hockey, and give fans a chance to experience one of the biggest hockey events in North America," said Tafaline Wall, Commercial Banking Area manager, Regina and Southwest Saskatchewan, BMO Bank of Montreal. "I'd like to thank all the enthusiastic fans who showed up in their most creative attires and congratulations to Mr. Mitchell for proving himself as the BMO Ultimate Regina Pats Fan.”

The contest and community celebration was held to kick off BMO’s new four-year partnership with the Canadian Hockey League, including the Western Hockey League and its member teams. Participants dressed in their Regina Pats colours, jerseys and costumes, and 3 finalists were chosen by a panel of judges, including Darren Zabo, Pats’ player Brandon Davidson, and BMO’s Jason Ecarnot. They were then put to the test with trivia questions provided by the team, and Mr. Mitchell emerged victorious.

The grand prize winner will receive a trip for two to the 2012 MasterCard Memorial Cup in Shawinigan, Quebec.

BMO and the Canadian Hockey League
BMO Financial Group and the Canadian Hockey League recently announced BMO as the Official Bank of the Canadian Hockey League. The new four-year agreement also designates BMO as the Official Bank of each of the CHL’s member hockey leagues, the Ontario Hockey League, the Western Hockey League, and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

The sponsorship builds on BMO’s partnership with the CHL of more than 10 years and affirms BMO’s exclusivity as a financial services sponsor of the league in the retail banking category. It also engrains a presence with the 46 teams who currently participate in the BMO CHL Affinity MasterCard program, which enables CHL fans to support their favourite teams through branded credit cards.

THURSDAY SPORTS CAGE PODCAST

2012-01-26T17:43:00.000-07:00

It's all hockey talk in Thurday's Sports Cage podcast with a distinct Seafood Sams (Saskatoon) theme. Kelly Remple and I discussed who would you rather watch: the Pats or Warriors? We were also joined by Peter Loubardias. You can listen to the show here:

LIONS EXTEND BRUCE

2012-01-26T15:54:00.001-07:00

(Vancouver) The BC Lions Football Club announced this morning that import receiver Arland Bruce has signed an extension with the team.

"Arland's football resume speaks for itself," said VP of football operations and GM Wally Buono. "He is an exciting player who helped make our offence even better in 2011. Having him sign an extension today helps us continue building a strong team for this season and beyond."

"Arland was a fantastic addition last year and not only instantly gave our offence another dimension, but was also a catalyst in our coming together as a team, said head coach Mike Benevides. "Having him attend training camp in 2012 and fully immerse himself in Jacques Chapdelaine's system is going benefit him, Travis Lulay and our entire offence."

Coming to the Lions in early August through a trade with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Bruce made an immediate impact on teammates both on and off the field with big plays and a unique approach to the game. In just his second game with the Lions, he rung up the Edmonton Eskimos for 129 yards and two touchdowns giving fans of the Black and Orange a preview of what was to come through 12 regular season games and a post season Grey Cup run.

Bruce finished the 2011 campaign with 58 receptions for 859 yards (49 catches, 755 yards with Lions) highlighted by a career-high 100-yard TD reception versus Saskatchewan on September 24th. He added four catches for 82 yards in the Western Final win over Edmonton and five more receptions for 73 yards and a TD in the club's 34-23 Grey Cup win over Winnipeg.

"I could not be happier to sign this extension," said Bruce. "I have fallen in love with football again since coming to the west coast and I'm very honoured to know that I will be given an opportunity to try and win another championship for our fans."

ESKS SIGN O-LINEMAN

2012-01-26T15:17:00.001-07:00

(Edmonton) The Edmonton Eskimos have added considerable size and height to the offensive line with the signing of free agent Orrin Thompson, the club announced today.

Thompson (6-6, 320 lbs), a product of Duke University where he was a standout defensive lineman, signed as a undrafted free agent with the Miami Dolphins in 2005 and made the switch to offence. He spent two seasons on the Dolphins practice roster. He's also spent time with the Green Bay Packers (2007) and New York Giants (2009). Most recently, Thompson played for the UFL's New York Sentinels (2009) and Hartford Colonials (2010).

Eskimo General Manager Eric Tillman says "Orrin is a very intelligent and highly athletic big man. He'll come to training camp to compete for a starting job at either right or left tackle."

INTRODUCING ... THE CANALTA CUP!

2012-01-26T14:25:00.000-07:00

SJHL President Bill Chow is proud to announce a new 10 year partnership with Canalta Hotels. The agreement includes renaming the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League Championship Trophy to the Canalta Cup.

This landmark agreement between Canalta and the SJHL will also see the hotel chain contribute more than $600,000 in partnership revenue to the League over the next 10 years.

"Canalta's partnership with the SJHL shows their commitment to supporting long-standing Saskatchewan traditions," said Bill Chow, SJHL President. "We are excited to have them join our SJHL corporate family."

Canalta Hotels, established in 1979, currently has six hotels in five Saskatchewan markets, Weyburn, Moosomin, Tisdale, Humboldt and Melfort. The family owned business is also in the construction phase of properties in Esterhazy and Shaunavon.

"It is an honour to have our company name on one of the most respected and cherished championship trophies in hockey," said Gary Hoffert, Regional Vice President of Canalta Hotels. "This unique agreement helps promote our hotel properties in the Saskatchewan marketplace."

The battle for the Canalta Cup will begin when the SJHL playoffs start at the end of February.

ARGOS RELEASE SHELL

2012-01-26T14:20:00.001-07:00

Mississauga – The Toronto Argonauts Football Club announced today that import DB Lin-J Shell has been released.

Commented Argonauts' General Manager Jim Barker, "Lin-J has been a great player for us but with a new defensive scheme and philosophy planned for this season, and operating within the salary management system, he is no longer a fit for our team. We would like to thank Lin-J for his contributions and wish him continued success."

Shell joined the Argonauts in 2009 and started 53 regular season games and two playoff games over three seasons. In total, he made 222 defensive tackles, 7 interceptions, 14 passes knocked down, 4 quarterback sacks and 7 fumble recoveries. Shell was the Argos' Outstanding Rookie in 2009 and was named an East All-Star in both 2010 and 2011.

RAIDERS TO HONOUR THREE GREATS

2012-01-26T10:01:00.001-07:00

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan- The Prince Albert Raiders are pleased to announce the three inductees to join the Raiders Wall of Honour for the 2011-12 season. As nominated by the Raider Alumni - Robin Bartel & Dean McAmmond in the Players Category, and as brought forward by the Past Presidents Gerry Bergen in the Builders Category.

The trio will be honoured at a special on-ice ceremony prior to the Raiders home game against the Kootenay Ice on Saturday, February 25th at 7:00 PM.

Robin Bartel – Player (SJHL):
In his three seasons with the Prince Albert Raiders from 1979-82, Bartel took part in 3 Centennial Cup Championship games, winning the last two in 1981 and 1982. He helped add to the tradition of winning in 1979 when he was a large group of players that joined a Raider team that had only 6 hold overs from the previous year (1978-79), the teams' first National Junior A Title winners.

After spending a season with the University of Saskatchewan, Bartel joined former Raider teammates James Patrick and Dave Tippett with the Canadian National team in 1984 when they took part in the Olympic games in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia.

Dean McAmmond– Player (WHL):
Dean McAmmond toiled 3 and a half seasons for the Prince Albert Raiders from 1989-93. In 217 career games as a Raider left winger, McAmmond scored 97 goals, adding 129 assists. McAmmond was the key player in a 7 player deal with the Swift Current Broncos in January, 1993, just after returning from helping Team Canada to a gold medal at the 1993 World Junior Championships in Sweden.

He was the Raider Rookie of the Year in 1990 and Playoff MVP in 1992 leading the Raiders to the Eastern Conference Final. McAmmond scored the game winning goal in the inaugural Chrysler Challenge Cup all star game pitting the best of the WHL against top players from Ontario and Quebec, held in Saskatoon in 1992.

In 1991, the Chicago Blackhawks made McAmmond their first round selection, 22nd overall, making his NHL debut in the 1992-92 season, still with junior eligibility left.

He would go on to a 996 game NHL career with Chicago, Edmonton, Philadelphia, Calgary, St.Louis, Ottawa, New York Islanders and New Jersey scoring 186 goals and 262 assists.

Gerry Bergen - Builder:
Gerry Bergen has been a key volunteer at almost every Prince Albert Raider game since 1985 when Rick Wilson asked him to be a volunteer official. In the years following Gerry has served in every capacity as an off ice official as goal judge, penalty box attendant, spotter, time keeper and score keeper.

STAMPS MOVES

2012-01-26T09:39:00.001-07:00

Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel is pleased to announce that import quarterback Kevin Glenn has signed a restructured contract with the club. As per team policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

"I'm pleased to be able to restructure Kevin's contract so that it will be a better fit with our salary cap," said Hufnagel. "By accommodating us in this way, Kevin has demonstrated that he is anxious to be a member of the Calgary Stampeders in 2012 and beyond. This restructured deal gives Kevin an opportunity to finish his career here in Calgary."

Glenn, 32, was acquired by Calgary along with offensive lineman Mark Dewit and a conditional draft pick in the Jan. 3 trade with the Tiger-Cats that sent Henry Burris to Hamilton. Glenn is entering his 12th season in the CFL, having played for Saskatchewan, Winnipeg and Hamilton. He has thrown for 32,446 yards, 179 touchdowns and 128 interceptions.

His finest season came with the Ticats in 2010, when he threw for 5,102 yards and 33 touchdowns and had a quarterback rating of 97.6. In 2007, Glenn was named the East Division's nominee for Most Outstanding Player after throwing for 5,114 yards and 25 touchdowns with Winnipeg. He led the Blue Bombers to two playoff wins but couldn't play in the Grey Cup due to injury.

"I'm excited to be a Stampeder and I look forward to this next chapter in my career," said Glenn. "I can't wait to get to work with my new teammates."

The Stamps also announce that import linebacker Sean Ware, who signed with Calgary during Week 11 of the 2011 season and appeared in three games, has retired.

TICATS INK HINDS

2012-01-26T09:38:00.001-07:00

Hamilton, Ontario - The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced today that Canadian defensive back Ryan Hinds has signed a contract extension with the team that will keep him in Hamilton through the 2014 season.

"Ryan is a solid all-around defensive back, a very intelligent player and a great tackler. He gets better with every game and will continue to improve as his career progresses," said vice president of football operations Bob O'Billovich.

In two seasons after being selected in the second round (13th overall) of the 2009 CFL Canadian Draft, Hinds has made 60 defensive tackles and one interception while starting 18 of the 21 games he has appeared in. Hinds registered 36 defensive tackles in 12 starts in 2011.

"The Tiger-Cats organization is a great fit for me and I'm excited to continue my career in black and gold. I'm always focused on getting better and winning games, and we're building a winning atmosphere here. I love the fan and community support that we receive in Hamilton," said Hinds.

RICK RYPIEN BOBBLEHEAD NIGHT

2012-01-26T05:00:00.002-07:00

Regina, Saskatchewan – The Regina Pats are proud to announce that Friday night will be the Knight Archer “Rick Rypien Bobblehead Night” as the Pats play host to the Swift Current Broncos.

A limited quantity of bobbleheads will be made available to fans for a minimum donation of $2 with all of the proceeds to go to KidSport. Limited one per customer.

Rick spent his whole WHL career with the Regina Pats and left his mark both on the ice and in the community. He was the heart and soul of the blue and white for three seasons and was the Captain of the Pats in the 2004-05 season. He finished his career with a bang, scoring a hat trick and an assist in his final home game in a 5-3 victory over the Brandon Wheat Kings.

“The initial discussion of having a bobble head night for Rick centered on his return to Winnipeg and him being one the most popular players we have had in some time. Our hope was that he would be able to be here for the game as it was during the NHL All-Star break.” Regina Pats President, Brent Parker continues, “Our plans obviously changed with Rick's passing this summer. We discussed the idea of continuing forward with the night with Rick's family and they were fully supportive of us paying tribute to Rick's memory in this manner. We felt that we could go one step further and use the bobble head to help raise funds for something that was important to Rick and that was Kidsport.”

The Regina Pats will host the Swift Current Broncos on “Rick Rypien Bobblehead Night” this Friday at 7:00pm at the Brandt Centre. Get your tickets now by going online at www.ticketmaster.ca, calling the Ticketmaster hotline at 543-7800 or head to the Brandt Centre or any other Tickemaster box office.

LIONS LOSE ELIMIMIAN

2012-01-26T04:58:00.001-07:00

MOBILE, Ala. -- The Minnesota Vikings once again are looking north for competition on their roster.

An NFL source said on Wednesday night the Vikings have agreed to terms on a two-year contract with Solomon Elimimian, a Nigerian-born linebacker who was named the Canadian Football League's hardest hitter in a TSN poll of players last year.

Elimimian, 25, went undrafted in 2009 out of Hawaii, where he finished his career with a school-record 434 tackles. He spent part of training camp that summer with the Buffalo Bills, then signed in May 2010 with the CFL's BC Lions.

He had 77 tackles, five sacks and 11 special-teams tackles that season on the way to rookie of the year honors. This past season, Elimimian (6-foot, 227 pounds) had 98 tackles, four sacks and two interceptions, earning an All-Star nod and helping the Lions win the Grey Cup.

The St. Louis Rams and Carolina Panthers also made offers to Elimimian, who isn't believed to have received a bonus -- no surprise, since the Vikings' signing of former CFL receiver Emmanuel Arceneaux to a deal with a $75,000 bonus last summer left them in a bad spot with respect to the rookie spending pool.

Arceneaux spent most of last season on the practice squad but finished on the 53-man roster. The Vikings signed another CFL veteran, linebacker Kenny Onatolu, for a $5,000 bonus in December 2008 and he has played the past three seasons on special teams.

(Courtesy ESPN1500 Minneapolis)

THIS WEEK IN COUGAR ATHLETICS

2012-01-26T04:56:00.001-07:00

Women’s Basketball (CIS Ranking: No. 1) – The Cougars are now off to their best start in program history, as their winning streak hit 13 after home wins over Fraser Valley and Trinity Western last weekend. The Cougars continue their six-game homestand this weekend with games against Winnipeg at the Centre for Kinesiology, Health & Sport on Friday and Saturday at 6:15 p.m.

Men’s Basketball – The Cougars (3-10) lost twice at home last weekend, falling to Fraser Valley on Friday night and to Trinity Western on Saturday. Now 3½ games back of Lethbridge for the final playoff spot in Canada West’s Prairie Division, the Cougars have a pair of must-win games against Winnipeg this weekend at the CKHS. Game time is scheduled for 8 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday.

Women’s Hockey – After a week off, the Cougars (6-11-1) are back on the ice this weekend with a pair of home games against Calgary. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday at The Co-operators Centre. The Cougars have just four games left on the conference schedule after this weekend, including two on the road at Lethbridge (Feb. 3 and Feb. 4) and two at home against Alberta (Feb. 11 and Feb. 12).
Swimming – The University of Regina’s swimming teams will both send four athletes to the conference championships this weekend in Edmonton. Jessica Winter, Kimberly McWhirter, Erika Brown, and Natalya Milner will represent the women’s team, while the men’s team will send Carlos Quiroz, Chris Myers, Hector Fukushi, and Craig Soutar. Live results will be available for the meet at www.reginacougars.com.

Men’s Hockey – Three points back of Lethbridge for the sixth and final Canada West postseason berth but with two games in hand on the Pronghorns, the Cougars (4-14-2) hit the road this weekend for Friday and Saturday games against Calgary. The U of R will have six games remaining on the conference schedule after this weekend, five of which will be at home at The Co-operators Centre.

Men’s Volleyball – The Cougars (4-12) return to the court this weekend for two big road matches at UBC Okanagan. Sitting two wins behind Winnipeg in the Canada West playoff race, the U of R will be approaching its first ever conference games against the Heat as must-win matches. Matches will start at 10:00 p.m. Saskatchewan time on both Friday and Saturday and will be webcast at www.canadawest.tv.

Women’s Volleyball – The Cougars (2-12) head to Kelowna, B.C. this weekend to face UBC Okanagan for the first times in Canada West play. The teams – who have split two non-conference matches against each other this season – will meet on Friday night and Saturday night at 8:00 p.m. Saskatchewan time. Both matches will be webcast at www.canadawest.tv.

Track & Field (Men’s CIS Ranking: No. 7) – Justin Baker (60-metre hurdles) and Ethan Gardner (300-metre dash) both scored first-place finishes for the men’s team at the Golden Bear Open in Edmonton over the weekend. Ahmed Alkabary also had a sterling performance in the long jump, as his score of 7.03 metres stands as the top jump in the CIS this season. The men’s and women’s teams will be back in action this weekend at the Sled Dog Meet in Saskatoon.

Women’s Wrestling (CIS Ranking: No. 8) – Three members of the Cougars competed at the Guelph Open over the weekend, with Jasmine Slinn (48 kg) and Lisa McKibben (67 kg) both registering fourth-place finishes. The Cougars head back to Ontario this weekend to wrestle in the Western Open, hosted by the University of Western Ontario in London.

Men’s Wrestling (CIS Ranking: No. 1) – Marlin Legare (125 lbs.) and Gaelan Malloy (165 lbs.) both led the Cougars with fourth-place finishes at the Minot State Open on Saturday. The Cougars will have a couple of weekends off before preparing to defend their 2011 conference championship on their own soil, as the team hosts the Canada West meet on Feb. 10 and Feb. 11 at the CKHS.

(Courtesy Cougar Athletics)

WEDNESDAY SPORTS CAGE PODCAST

2012-01-25T17:41:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday's show Sportsnet's Arash Madani previewed Super Bowl XLVI from Boston and we were joined by L.A. Dodgers great Steve Sax who will be in Regina Friday, February 3 for the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame's Celebrating Excellence dinner. You can listen to the show here:
Wednesday SportsCage by ridervoice

CATCHING UP WITH GREG MARSHALL

2012-01-25T12:26:00.001-07:00

From Herb Zurkowsky's Montreal Gazette article:

MONTREAL -- The Alouettes are in the market for a defensive coordinator, and Greg Marshall might be the most qualified man for the job - should Canadian Football League experience be a prerequisite.

So it should come as no surprise the Als have been in contact with Marshall, the former head coach of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, The Gazette has learned. But that, of course, doesn't necessarily mean he's about to be hired, unless head coach Marc Trestman believes there's a comfort level with Marshall and the two find they can coexist.

"Let's say I've heard from them," Marshall admitted during an interview with The Gazette while visiting family near Sacramento, Calif. "I don't know their process or their thoughts.

"The Alouettes are going to do what gives them the best chance to win a Grey Cup," he added. "I'm always thinking and believing I'm the best option. If I don't believe that, who's going to?"

Als management, led by Trestman and general manager Jim Popp, are in Mobile, Ala., this week, site of the Senior Bowl. Along with their scouting duties, they'll be conducting interviews with potential coaching candidates. Montreal has lost four assistants since the end of last season, including defensive coordinator Tim Tibesar, who just last week accepted a similar position at Purdue University.

Marshall initially refused comment when asked whether he would be interviewed this week. Later, he said there were no plans "at this time" for him to travel to Mobile.

In an email, Trestman said he wouldn't comment on potential interviews with coaching staff.

"If someone's interested, I'll always listen. I'll make the best decision moving forward for me," Marshall said. "I would be interested in what (the Als) have to offer. At some point, I see myself back in coaching, although I don't know the time frame. I want to make sure the next move is the right move ... the best thing for my career ... the best move, moving forward.

"I enjoy coaching. I always have," Marshall added. "I see myself getting back in the right circumstances and equation. I miss it, and I've missed it from the day I walked out of the (Riders') office."
Marshall obviously remains disappointed over his departure from Saskatchewan, but can say only so much, given the fact he's still being compensated by the organization.

"I don't need to say anything," he said. "I'm disappointed how things worked out and am trying to move on."

hzurkowsky@montrealgazette.com

Read the full article here:
http://www.canada.com/mobile/iphone/story.html?id=6048706

WIN A TRIP TO SUPER BOWL TONIGHT

2012-01-25T08:45:00.000-07:00

Regina's Press Box Sports Bar is one of only six locations in Canada awarding an all-expenses paid trip to Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis between the Patriots and Giants and your chance to win is tonight! It's Wing Night, so get down to the Press Box good and early. Each Bud Light you order will get you an entry form. From there, 10 qualifiers will be chosen to go into a random, computer-generated draw to determine the winner. The draw will be made around midnight. Good luck!

COPE CALLS IT A CAREER

2012-01-25T08:38:00.001-07:00

Mississauga – After 11 seasons, more than 10,000 career receiving yards and two Grey Cup rings, WR Jeremaine Copeland has announced his retirement from the Canadian Football League.

Commented Copeland, "I would like to thank God first for blessing me with a great career and for allowing me to stay healthy and not having to miss a single season. Thanks to my family for all of their support throughout my career as well. I would like to thank the CFL organizations in Montreal, Calgary, and Toronto for allowing me to play in three of the greatest cities, the greatest organizations, and the greatest groups of fans in the CFL. It has been a great run and a lot of fun for me but I believe it's time to move on in my life. I would like to say thanks to all of my teammates that I played with and especially the two quarterbacks I played most of my career with - AC and Hank - who helped make my career what it was. Last but not least, I want to thank my receiving corps, who are all great groups of guys that made it fun to play the game of football."

Throughout his time, Copeland was one of the most electrifying receivers in the CFL. His career numbers are extraordinary having caught 622 passes for 10,037 yards. He missed the CFL playoffs only twice and competed in nine playoff games, starting in three Grey Cup championship games. A two-time CFL All-Star (2003 & 2009), he has earned divisional all-star on three occasions (2003, 2004 & 2009). Copeland recorded five 1,000+ yard campaigns and 75 career receiving touchdowns, and he leaves the game as the CFL's fifteenth-leading receiver all-time. He is also just the fifteenth player in league history to catch for more than 10,000 yards in a career.

TICATS NAME OFFENSIVE COACHES

2012-01-25T08:37:00.001-07:00

Hamilton, Ontario - The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced today that the team has hired Jeremaine Copeland as receivers coach and Doug Sams as quarterbacks coach, while Doug Malone will return as offensive line coach.

"I'm excited to have these coaches join our staff. While each of these men has a strong work ethic and passion for success, individually they bring a unique skill set to our staff, which will benefit our offence," said head coach and director of football operations George Cortez.

Copeland enters the coaching ranks after wrapping up an outstanding CFL career as a player. In 11 seasons with three teams, Copeland made 622 receptions and became just the 15th player in league history to record over 10,000 receiving yards. He was named a divisional all-star three times and a CFL all-star twice, while capturing two Grey Cup championships.

"During his playing career, Jeremaine was more than just a great athlete. His preparation and attention to detail in the meeting room was unmatched. We're confident that those qualities, along with his familiarity with our offence, will make Jeremaine an asset to our team," said Cortez.

Sams brings over three decades of coaching experience at the professional and US collegiate level to the Ticats. Most recently, Sams was offensive coordinator at Edinboro University for the 2011 season after four years as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Delaware State. His coaching pedigree also includes 16 seasons as a head coach at three different schools and CFL experience as the offensive coordinator of the Ottawa Rough Riders (1989-91), the defensive line and special teams coach of the Edmonton Eskimos (1987) and offensive line coach of the Montreal Alouettes (1986).

"I've worked with Doug previously, so I'm well aware of his abilities. His tremendous amount of experience on the offensive side of the ball and drive to succeed will serve us well this season," commented Cortez.

Malone returns for his second season in black and gold after guiding the Ticats offensive line in 2011. Prior to joining the Ticats, Malone spent the three years with Presbyterian College in various capacities, including head coach and offensive coordinator. He also has head coaching experience at Tennessee Tech and Wingate.

Cortez remarked, "Doug was highly recommended based on his outstanding work with the offensive line last year. We're excited to have him on staff again this season."

SCHAD'S AN ALL-STAR!

2012-01-25T04:30:00.001-07:00

From the desk of Flames President Ken King:

"Great respect for our guys........

The Calgary Flames Hockey Club is pleased to announce its athletic therapist team of Morris Boyer (Athletic Therapist) and Schad Richea (Assistant Athletic Therapist) have been selected to provide physiotherapy services at the 59th Annual NHL All-Star Game, to be held in Ottawa, ON on Sunday, January 29. Morris and Schad will join Team Chara for the mid-season classic.

The selections of trainers for the All-Star Game is made by the Professional Hockey Athletic Trainer’s Society, the governing association for athletic therapists in the National Hockey League. The upcoming All-Star Game will be the first selection for both Morris and Schad.

Morris has served with the Flames for the past 14 seasons, having joined the Club during the 1997-98 season. Schad became a member of our athletic therapist team prior to the start of the 2009-10 season and is in his third season with the team.

Please join us in congratulating both Morris and Schad, along with Flames Captain, Jarome Iginla, for their selection to the 2012 NHL All-Star Game!"

**Schad is a proud product of Dysart, Saskatchewan and spent seven seasons with the Regina Pats as head athletic therapist!

GRIM REAPER IN THE CAGE

2012-01-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

Regina Pats legend and former NHL enforcer Stu "The Grim Reaper" Grimson was on the Sports Cage Tuesday talking hockey and promoting next month's Dropping The Gloves With Stu Grimson fundraiser for the Adult Learning Centre. We discussed Ovechkin's no-show at the NHL All-Star Game and a variety of other things. Also in this podcast is a visit with Team 1200 Ottawa Radio's A.J. Jakubec as we previewed NHL All-Star Weekend. You can listen to the show here:
SportsCage Tuesday by ridervoice

PATS LAUNCH MOBILE APP

2012-01-24T19:38:00.001-07:00

Regina, Saskatchewan – The Regina Pats are proud to announce the official launch of the Regina Pats Mobile App! The App is available on all Apple Products, all Android and for Blackberry Phones and Tablets with an operating system on v6.0 and up. With the help of our proud sponsor, RCE Computers, the cost of the Regina Pats Mobile App is FREE!

The product was developed by Buzzer Apps Mobile Solutions, and they were key to launching the Regina Pats Mobile App on all platforms. The App will include the 2011-12 schedule and up to the minute scores, roster, a link to the Pats Twitter feed and Pats "buzz" with all of the news from your Regina Pats. It has everything a Pats fan needs to stay up to date with the blue and white.

From Buzzer Apps Mobile Solutions, "One tap access to all the information a Pats fan could want. The new Regina Pats Mobile App gives you mobile access to everything you need to follow the Regina Pats including: the latest news, the schedule, social media feeds and of course stats and the team roster."

Regina Pats Vice President of Operations, Cliff Mapes, "We are proud to team up with Buzzer Apps Mobile Solutions and RCE Computers in the official launch of the Regina Pats Mobile App. As an organization, we found that it was important to have the Regina Pats Mobile App available on all of the major platforms and to allow all Pats fans access to the mobile app"

For Apple Products: Regina Pats Mobile App is available on iTunes. For Android Products: Regina Pats Mobile App is available at Android Marketplace. For Blackberry and Tablets with a version of v6.0 and higher: Regina Pats Mobile App is available on Blackberry Appworld.

Just use the keyword "Regina Pats" to search for the Regina Pats Mobile App, or go to www.reginapats.com for the QR codes.

ESKS RE-SIGN STAMPS

2012-01-24T18:15:00.001-07:00

(Edmonton) The Edmonton Eskimos have signed all-star receiver Fred Stamps to a new contract, the club announced today.

Stamps was the Esks' leading pass catcher in 2011 with 82 receptions for 1153 yards and 8 touchdowns in 15 games. It was the third consecutive season that the New Orleans native has cracked the 1,000+ yards receiving mark. In five seasons with the Esks, Stamps has 325 receptions, 4,818 yards and 27 touchdowns in75 regular season games.

Eskimo General Manager Eric Tillman said "Fred has demonstrated time and again that he's a special talent and we're very excited that he's chosen to continue his career as an Edmonton Eskimo."

Stamps has earned CFL Western Division honours (2009, '10 & '11), CFL All-Star (2011, '09) and CFLPA All-Star (2009, '10, '11). Stamps was entering his option year under his previous contract.

HOPSON TO SPEAK IN P.A.

2012-01-24T14:22:00.001-07:00

Roughrider President Jim Hopson will be the keynote speaker at the 7th Annual SaskPower Training on Tuesday, March 20 at the Art Hauser Centre in Prince Albert. Proceeds from the breakfast will go to Special Olympics Saskatchewan and the PA Raider Education Fund.

The first six Training For Life Power Breakfasts have featured Jungle Jim Hunter, George Reed, Jeremy O'Day, Sami Jo Small, Mark Tewksbury and Carla McLeod and have sold out. Over $30,000 has been raised over the years for both charities/foundations. Tables of eight are available for $200 and individual tickets go for $30 and are available at the Raider office.

WOULD YOU TAKE STEWART?

2012-01-24T09:32:00.002-07:00

From the blog of Alouettes play-by-play man Rick Moffat:

• "Longtime Montreal defensive lineman Anwar Stewart knew he had likely played his last game as an Alouette last November. Now he's wondering if the Argos or Roughriders will give him one more shot to win another Grey Cup.

Veteran d-tackle Eric Wilson is also wondering about his future, amidst rumours both players have been or will soon be released.

Als GM Jim Popp reconfirms to CJAD this morning that neither player has been let go.

Stewart, who turns 36 a week before CFL free agency, is expecting to be released from his contract for 2012. After biting the financial bullet to help the Als stay under the salary cap in the last few seasons Stewart admits GM Jim Popp will cut him loose.

Stewart told the Andrew Carter Morning Show he'll make his own charity appearances and school visits if he cannot be a part of the club's official program.

The Als are looking for a new defensive coordinator, but the already departed coach Tim Tibesar is very high on the futures of Moton Hopkins and practise roster Alouette Daunte' Akra."

www.cjad.com

BMO/CHL ULTIMATE FAN CONTEST

2012-01-24T06:30:00.005-07:00

BMO (Frederick W. Hill Mall branch) is hosting a CHL Ultimate Fan contest in conjunction with the CHL and the Regina Pats. On Wednesday (Jan. 25th) Pats fans are encouraged to come down to the branch at 1800 Scarth St. dressed in their best Pats gear. The contest is open to anyone over 18 years of age but any young fans wanting to come out and meet some of the Pats are more then welcome. There will also be pizza and refreshments on hand. The applicants for the contest itself will be judged on the following criteria:

Originality
Creativity
Community Reaction
Team Pride
Passion

The top three contestants then participate in a trivia contest with the questions determined by the team. The winner receives an autographed Pats jersey, as well the winner will have their name entered into a draw with all the other winners (41 events are happening throughout the country) for a trip for two to the MasterCard Memorial Cup. There will be 3 grand prize winners.

MONDAY SPORTS CAGE PODCAST

2012-01-24T06:24:00.003-07:00

Here is an extenda-mix version of the Sports Cage from Monday. By that I mean it's extra long. In the podcast you'll hear the Monday roundtable with Lynch, Phil the Thrill and me plus a visit with Pats coach Pat Conacher and Rider talk with the Leader Post's Rob Vanstone. Download it here:
Monday SportsCage by ridervoice

PATCHAT

2012-01-23T12:52:00.001-07:00

Wednesday Kootenay 3 at Regina Pats 2 OT

The Pats held leads of 1-0 and 2-1 at different points of the game, but the Ice were able come back each time and escape the Brandt Centre with a 3-2 overtime win. All three of the Ice goals came on the power play led by Sam Reinhart with 2 goals including the winner. Morgan Klimchuk scored both of the Regina Pats goals in the loss.

Friday Medicine Hat 3 at Pats 2 OT
The Pats were able to climb back from a 2-0 first period deficit to force the game to overtime. In extra time, the Tigers Cole Grbavac scored the game winner for the 3-2 victory. Jordan Weal picked up a goal and an assist while Lane Scheidl picked up the other Pats goal in the defeat.

Saturday Moose Jaw 2 at Pats 3 OTThe Pats won their second in a row over the Warriors as the blue and white had to claw back from a pair of one goal deficits for the 3-2 overtime victory. Lane Scheidl tied the game on a penalty shot in the third while Jordan Weal won the game 30 seconds into overtime.

Quote of the Week
“It was one of those where you’ll take it. I did all the right things to get it behind the goalie and got lucky.” - Jordan Weal on his game winning goal in overtime Saturday against Moose Jaw
- Greg Harder, Jan 23rd Leaderpost.

Looking Ahead
Friday, January 27th – Broncos @ Pats 7:00pm Brandt Centre
This is the fourth of six meetings between the Pats and the Broncos this season with the Pats winning the first three meetings. 17 year old WHL rookie, Coda Gordon is second on the Broncos in scoring and is on the radar for the upcoming 2012 NHL Draft. He is the 38th ranked North American skater according to the Central Scouting mid-term rankings.

Friday is also Rick Rypien bobblehead night. Rick Rypien bobbleheads will be made available for a minimum donation of $2 to KidSport, limit one per person. Derek Boogaard t-shirts will also be available with all of the proceeds going to “Boogaard’s Boogaardians.”

Saturday, January 28th – Pats @ Blades 7:05pm Credit Union Centre
The Pats and the Blades are in a heated battle for a home playoff berth in the Eastern Conference. Andrey Makarov and Josh Nicholls are back in the Blades line-up and the 2013 Memorial Cup hosts are building for a run to the playoffs.

In The Community
Community Appearances:
The Regina Pats would like to thank their community partners that have welcomed the players into their organizations all year long. Many of the Pats weekly visits include the Wascana Rehabilitation Centre, Regina and Area Food Bank and the Food For Learning programs.

Tuesday, January 24th:
Regina and Area Food Bank
Wascana Rehabilitation Centre
Food For Learning – Coronation Park

Wednesday, January 25th:
Home Depot “Practice With The Pats”
5:00pm Brandt Centre

Members of the Regina Pats and the coaching staff will host a practice with the Atom Thunderbirds from Hockey Regina.

In The Locker Room
- Jordan Weal is tied for top spot in league scoring and his game winning goal against the Moose Jaw Warriors was his 350th career WHL point.
- Lane Scheidl has goals in three of his last four games
- Martin Marincin has five points in his first six games since joining the Regina Pats
- Dyson Stevenson has points in seven of his last nine games (3g, 6a)
- Matt Hewitt’s 24 wins is the most by a Pat goaltender since Linden Rowat won 34 in 2007-08

Through the Looking Glass
Erik Donald
The Pats 6th round pick, 113th overall in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft is playing for the Edmonton SSAC Bulldogs in the AMMHL. The 6-foot defenceman has 22 points in 25 games for a Bulldog club that is 5th in the league standings.

(Courtesy Dan Plaster)

ST. CROIX GETS PLAYER OF THE WEEK

2012-01-23T12:47:00.001-07:00

CALGARY, AB. - The Western Hockey League announced today that Edmonton Oil Kings' forward Michael St. Croix is the WHL Player of the Week.

St. Croix collected 10 points, scoring six goals and four assists to go with a +7 rating, in three games over the past week helping the Oil Kings to a 3-0-0-0 record.

STAMPS RELEASE REYNOLDS

2012-01-23T10:06:00.000-07:00

Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel on Monday announced the release of running back Joffrey Reynolds.

"Despite our attempts to find Joffrey a new home, we were unable to complete a transaction," said Hufnagel. "By releasing him now rather than waiting until later in the off-season, we wanted to make sure Joffrey had the best opportunity to sign with another team. We thank Joffrey for his years of excellent service to the Stampeders and wish him all the best."

Reynolds, 32, played eight seasons with the Stampeders and became the franchise's all-time leading rusher during the 2010 season. In 2011, he dressed for the first 11 games before West Division all-star Jon Cornish took over as the starting running back. Reynolds played two more games later in the season and finished the year with 477 rushing yards and three touchdowns.

For his career, Reynolds has 9,213 rushing yards and 53 touchdowns to go along with 226 catches for 2,036 yards and eight scores. He was a member of Calgary's Grey Cup team in 2008.

THE MONDAY MORNING GOALIE

2012-01-23T05:54:00.004-07:00

Welcome to a brand new week.   Let's recap the weekend, and look ahead:

* So much for the Harbaugh Bowl.   BOTH Harbaugh boys went down in Sunday's NFL conference championship games setting up a New England-New York Super Bowl.   AGAIN. The Patriots disposed of John Harbaugh's Baltimore Ravens 23-20 (with a little help from kicker Billy Cundiff's miss at the end of the game) and the Giants got past Jim Harbaugh's 49ers 20-17 in overtime on another special teams blunder. Now we have to wait two weeks until Super Bowl XLVI. Today on the Sports Cage we'll award another guest pass for two to the 4 Seasons Sports Cage Super Bowl party February 5.

* I'm getting ahead of myself.   The weekend started out with the Regina Pats' 3-2 overtime loss to the Medicine Hat Tigers in the Brandt Centre. I'm pretty sure I'll be barred from all remaining Pats games because the Pedersen Jinx continued.   Still, it was a thrill broadcasting the game on Access. The next night, with me out of the building, the Pats responded with a 3-2 overtime victory over the rival Moose Jaw Warriors before a season-high crowd of 5222.   The Pats begin the brand week still in 6th in the conference, but only one point back of Saskatoon and four back of first-place Moose Jaw.   Regina doesn't play again until Friday night when they host the Swift Current Broncos.

* Pats coach Pat Conacher will be on the Sports Cage tonight along with, I'm hoping, Gene Makowsky and Jim Lang from Fan 590 Toronto.

* Saturday night we were down in Weyburn for the 10th Annual Weyburn Red Wings Sportsmans Dinner and here are some photos:

Here are this year's speakers: Hockey Hall of Famer Brad Park, two-time Olympic gold medalist Catriona Lemay Doan and All-Star Roughrider running back Wes Cates.

Over $40,000 was raised by the auction alone. For the night, the Red Wings raised a record profit of almost $60,000 which is nearly double last year.

It's always great to get out to these sports dinners and get to know these athletes better. For instance Wes Cates has a sister who's published two fiction books! Here are some other notes from Wes' speech:

* Wes was named to his college's Hall of Fame (California-Pennsylvania) and holds school records in carries and rushing touchdowns. He also holds the PSAC record for rushing yards however he was never able to land an NFL tryout. So he returned to his hometown of Columbus, Ohio where he worked at as a personal trainer and moonlighted at his friend's gas station. He had turned his back on football and moved on with his life. Wouldn't you know it, he got an invite from the Calgary Stampeders to attend training camp. Cates made the team, played one year in Calgary and then was traded to Saskatchewan in June of 2007 for Rob Lazeo. Cates credits Eric Tillman for spotting his talent and bringing his talents to Saskatchewan. The rest is history as Wes has become the Riders' second-leading rusher (only behind George Reed), has been a CFL All-Star and won a Grey Cup in 2007 with Saskatchewan.

* It should also be noted that Wes played the 2007 West Final and Grey Cup on a broken foot.

* About the 2011 Roughriders? Cates apologized to the crowd for the 5-13 season. Wes caught himself going down a road he shouldn't have and stopped himself. He said "If you see Greg Marshall on the street, don't assault him! He did the best he could and asking him to get this team back to the Grey Cup was a lot to ask anybody."

* Regarding new coach Corey Chamblin, Cates laughed "The dude is only two years older than me! Maybe I played against him somewhere!" Then he said from what he can tell so far, the team is in great hands with Chamblin.

* Brad Park is truly hockey royalty. The Toronto, Ontario product played in 1113 NHL games and his career spanned from 1968-1985. He was part of the 72 Summit Series and was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in his first year of elligibility (1988). He is STILL the 13th all-time leading scorer by defenceman and was rated the 49th best player in NHL history in The Hockey News Top 100.

* Park opened his speech by turning to Wes Cates and saying "You played a game on a broken foot? I played 100 games with a broken heart!"

* Park then turned to the other side of the room and pointed to my good friend Brad "Spinner" Spencer, owner of Red Coat Chrysler in Weyburn. "Where is Spinner Spencer?" Park asked. "Stand up.   You sir are no Spinner Spencer! I played with Spinner Spencer. We could have you killed."

Later on at PumpJacks, I said to Spinner "Sorry Park put you on the spot like that" and Spencer responded "Are you kidding? That was the greatest moment of my life! He's one of my heroes!"

* Park said "I played for Don Cherry and I can confirm the man is legally blind.   I mean, he dresses himself!" Brad also noted that Cherry had a habit of addressing the team in his robe.

* "Any Montreal fans here?" Park asked, and two guys put their hands up. "A$$holes."

* Perhaps Park's funniest line came when we were sitting at the supper table.   Somehow the names of Bob Poley and Roger Aldag came up and Park said he had no idea who they were. I said they were Roughrider legends and they even had their faces on Pilsner beer cans in the province. "Why? Were they lost?" Park asked.

* For those who care (like Fan 960 Calgary's Andrew Walker), Park was wearing dress shoes with tassels on them. That's what old hockey guys wear Andrew. And I am an old hockey guy. Maybe you should get some dress shoes with tassles on them too.

* Brad told hockey story after hockey story and I could listen to them for hours. Most of them I'd heard before, but you never get tired of hearing them again.

There's a shot of Catriona's two Olympic golds and one bronze.

* Obviously Lemay Doan's speech was quite motivational and inspirational as she talked about her medal wins in Nagano and Salt Lake City, and being the 2002 Canadian flag-bearer in Salt Lake. She also was part of the 2010 opening ceremonies in Vancouver (along with Wayne Gretzky) when the one leg of the Olympic cauldron wouldn't raise. Remember that?

* Catriona was raised in Saskatoon and is extremely proud of her Saskatchewan roots. She pointed out that she always had a Saskatchewan flag in her grasp while standing on the medal podium at the Olympics. Although she has lived in Calgary since she was 23, she still loves the Roughriders and pointed that out many times.

* All in all it was a fabulous evening and as I said, the team will announce a record profit of around $60,000. Once again they took the Roughrider tie off my neck and auctioned it off. One of the Lee brothers bought it for $1000.

* And on Sunday, the winners were announced for the 2011 Canadian Blog Awards and, thanks to you, this blog was named Canadian Sports Blog of the Year for a second time (the first being in 2007).   That helps out a great deal and your support is much appreciated!

* That's another great thing about these dinners; you get some pretty strong motivational messages out of them and I'll never forget what Team Canada hockey player Jennifer Botterill said about the 2010 Vancouver games. She said the mens team General Manager, Steve Yzerman, came into the womens dressing room just before the gold medal game.   They were quite nervous and uptight but all Yzerman said to them was "Just go out there and trust yourselves. You've made it this far for a reason. Go out there and do what you know you can do."   It doesn't matter if you're a hockey player, broadcaster, bus driver or a janitor, you can always use those words from Yzerman.   I did, just before each 2012 World Junior broadcast earlier this month.

* One regret from the weekend was not being able to hit the KFC buffet in Weyburn. Why, why, why can't we have a buffet at Regina KFCs? I would die of a heart attack, but at least I'd die happy.

* Another note from the banquet trail: my manager Joe Gunnis is now also representing Kent Austin and he has the former Rider player and coach booked for a banquet in Zenon Park, Saskatchewan this winter. Now THERE'S a guy I would pay money to watch speak.

* There are two sports dinners upcoming which you may have interest in attending. There are banner ads on the left side of this page which you can click on for more information. Friday, February 3 is the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame's Celebrating Excellence dinner featuring guest speakers Gizmo Williams and Steve Sax.   There's an impressive list of sports celebrities who will be in attendance. And on Friday, February 10 former NHL tough guy and Pats star Stu Grimson will be in town for the Dropping The Gloves dinner with proceeds going to the Adult Learning Centre. Even more sports celebrities will be in attendance for that evening.   Please click on the ads for more info. Both committees came to me for help in promoting their events so please give them a look.

* Our friend and Regina Rams alumnus Marco Ricci in Estevan pointed out on Twitter last week that there may soon be two Regina Rams in the NFL.   The first is Seattle punter Jon Ryan, but now defensive lineman Akiem Hicks is projected to be a late-round NFL draft choice this spring.

* Here are the thoughts of football maven John Lynch from this weekend's East-West Shrine Bowl:

"Three players from the CIAU in the East West shrine game with pro scouts galore in the crowd . The three players from Canada were Amand Nadon a defensive tackle from Laval and offensive guard Ben Heenan from the U of S Huskies and Akeim Hicks defensive end from the Rams

Mike Mayock who did the colour on the game talked about Hicks early in the game as he started for the East and Mayock liked his size at "6" "5" 320 and speed and figures he will be a late round NFL Draft choice .

Heenan started at right guard for the West and l although I missed part of the game it looked like he played virtually the whole game for the West.

Tom Melton one of the writers covering the game said he liked Heenans speed and nastiness. Interesting.
JL"

More from Lynch on Rider Monday today in the Sports Cage.

* Last week my Twitter account was hacked. It wasn't the same as what happened to Henry Burris, but it was still dangerous. Both my Facebook and Twitter accounts have now been hacked. That's scary.

* On Sunday morning in our Weyburn hotel, there was a fabulous documentary on TSN about John Candy and his part ownership of the Toronto Argonauts in the early 90s. I mean it was FASCINATING. Perhaps you've seen it.   That's why, when I hear how crappy the Argo attendance is these days, I think it's so said that the Argo people seem to have given up. Not that long ago, the Argos were HUGE in that town. I remember when they came to play the Riders in 1991. I was doing the sidelines on CKRM's broadcasts and stood about five feet from John Candy. The guy was enormous. I heard after the game Candy entertained the masses in the South Keg lounge until the wee hours of the morning.   Maybe the Argos need another celebrity owner or something, but there's no reason they can't return to prominence.

* Speaking of TSN, they need to use Dave Hodge more. He's a god.

* Don't forget today it's All-You-Can-Eat Soup & Salad at the Press Box Sports Bar at lunch for just $7.99 and tonight you can enjoy a rull rib dinner for the low, low price of $5.99.

HAD ENOUGH? I HAVE. SEE YOU AT 5 IN THE CAGE!
RP

PRAIRIE MOBILE SKILLS COMP A SUCCESS

2012-01-22T18:34:00.001-07:00

Regina, Saskatchewan – Pats fans were treated to some great action on Sunday afternoon at the Co-operator's Centre as Team White came away with an 11-8 victory over Team Red in the 2nd annual Prairie Mobile Pats Skills Competition. The two import players wowed the crowd the most with Martin Marincin blasting a 101 mph slapshot to win the hardest shot competition and Dominik Volek scoring the nicest goal in the shootout competition

Here's how the competition finished up:

Fastest Skater:
Tier 1 Sabres winner: Caeden Donald (White)
Pats winner: Jack Rodewald (Red)

Hardest Shot:
Tier 1 Sabres winner: Matt Culling (White) 52mph
Pats winner: Martin Marincin (Red) 101mph

Accuracy:
Tier 1 Sabres: Brandon Beaulieu 2/10 (White)
Pats winner: Chandler Stephenson 4/5 (White)

Many thank-yous go out to the Hockey Regina Tier 1 Sabres, The Wolf Morning Show with Chad and Ballsy from 104.9 The Wolf as well as Seanna from The Wolf Workforce and Ryan Schultz from 620 CKRM, Shae Paisley and the good folks at Prairie Mobile Communications for yet another great event.

(Courtesy Dan Plaster)

SUNDAY SPORTS

2012-01-22T00:18:00.004-07:00

Former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno has died at the age of 85. Paterno succumbed to cancer this morning. He coached Penn State for 46 seasons before being fired in November in the wake of a sex scandal involving a former assistant. Shortly after that, Paterno's son Scott announced that his father was being treated for lung cancer.

---

The Super Bowl's two teams will be decided today. The New England Patriots will face the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC title game. Later on, the San Francisco 49ers host the New York Giants in the NFC championship game. The Super Bowl goes in Indianapolis in two weeks time.

---

Jordan Weal scored 30 seconds into overtime as the Regina Pats upset the Moose Jaw Warriors 3-2 Saturday night in the Brandt Centre. The win snapped a three game home losing streak for the Pats. Lane Scheidl and Dominek Volek scored the other Pats' goals while Matt Hewitt got the win in goal. The attendance was 5222.

---

Lee Stempniak had a hat trick and added an assist to help the Calgary Flames rout Edmonton 6-2. It's the Flames fourth straight win over the Oilers this season, and ninth in a row overall. Kris Versteeg scored twice and added an assist for the Florida Panthers, who snapped an eight-game, road-losing streak with a 4-3 shootout win at Winnipeg.

---

Newly acquired Rene Bourque got his 14th goal, and first in a Montreal uniform, in the Canadiens' 3-1 win at Toronto. Cody Hodgson's second goal of the game with 4:17 left helped the Vancouver Canucks beat San Jose 4-3. Anaheim ran its unbeaten in regulation streak to eight games, by nipping Ottawa 2-1. Detroit won its 16th in a row at home, with a 3-2 shootout over Columbus.

---

World champion Patrick Chan says he skated his finest short program yet, while blowing out the field at the national figure skating championship in Moncton, New Brunswick. The free skate goes on Sunday. Amelie Lacoste of Delson, Quebec captured the women's title. Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir reclaimed their ice dancing title, while Megan Duhamel and Eric Radford won their first pairs title.

---

Christine Sinclair had a goal and assisted on another by Melissa Tancredi, as Canada's women's soccer team blanked Cuba 2-0 in an Olympic qualifying tournament in Vancouver. Canada is 2-and-0, and clinched a semifinal berth. The eight-team tournament will send two North American, Central American and Caribbean zone representatives to the 2012 London Games.

(With files from the Canadian Press)

IN WEYBURN TONIGHT

2012-01-21T20:56:00.000-07:00

That's an over-the-shoulder shot of Catriona Lemay Doan at Saturday night's Weyburn Red Wing fundraising dinner at McKenna Hall. Also on the agenda are Wes Cates and Brad Park. Stories to follow on the MMG... How did the Pats do?

HUNTSY'S TEAM CAPTURES BRONZE

2012-01-21T15:04:00.001-07:00

INNSBRUCK, Austria – Canada has won the bronze medal in men's hockey at the 2012 Winter Youth Olympic Games, defeating the United States 7-5 in Saturday's third-place game.

Reid Gardiner (Humboldt, Sask./Saskatoon Contacts, SMAAAHL) scored once and added four assists for the Canadians, who scored four goals in a span of 4:13 midway through the second period to turn a 3-2 lead into a 7-2 advantage.

Ryan Gropp (Kamloops, B.C./Okanagan Hockey Academy, Midget AAA) finished with a hat trick, while Eric Cornel (Kemptville, Ont./Upper Canada, OEMHL) and Ryan Pilon (Duck Lake, Sask./Beardy's, SMAAAHL) had a goal and an assist each.

Adam Brooks (Winnipeg, Man./Winnipeg Thrashers, MMAAAHL) had the other goal for Canada and goaltender Keven Bouchard (Métabetchouan, Que./Jonquière, LHMAAAQ) made 35 saves as the Canadians were outshot 40-19 by the Americans.

Canada finished second in the preliminary round with a 3-1 record, including wins over the United States (5-1), Austria (9-0) and Finland (3-2 shootout) and a loss to Russia (4-3), but was defeated 2-1 by the Finns in Friday's semifinal.

Gardiner was Canada's leading scorer with 12 points (four goals, eight assists) in six games, while Gropp's six goals led the team.

The 2012 Winter Youth Olympic Games are the first of their kind, bringing together young athletes from around the world to participate in a unique cultural experience and international sporting competition. The men's hockey bronze medal brings Canada's total to five medals (two gold, one silver, two bronze).

TIGERS 3 PATS 2 OT

2012-01-21T03:03:00.000-07:00

REGINA -- Cole Grbavac's goal at 2:07 of overtime was the winner as the Medicine Hat Tigers skated off with a 3-2 victory over the Regina Pats Friday night in the Brandt Centre.

The Tigers led 2-0 after the first period and 2-1 after two. The Pats' goals came from Jordan Weal and Lane Scheidl as the game was tied 2-2 at the end of regulation. The shots were 3-3 in overtime but Grbavak's goal was the difference. He tucked a sharp angle shot past Matt Hewitt for the winner.

NOTES; The Pats outshot the Tigers 34-27 ... Matt Hewitt took the loss making 24 saves ... Regina was 1/4 on the powerplay and 1/1 killing penalties.

Regina (25-17-6) hosts the Moose Jaw Warriors Saturday night at 7 pm (Press Box Sports Bar Pregame Show at 6:35 pm).

FOUR SEASONS FOOTBALL FRIDAY AUDIO

2012-01-20T17:08:00.002-07:00

It was Four Seasons Football Friday in the Sports Cage on 620 CKRM with the Old 96er Scott Schultz. Our special guest was Hamilton Tiger-Cats head coach George Cortez. You can listen to here:
SportsCage 1-20-2012 5;09;27 PM by ridervoice

TICATS HIRE CREEHAN

2012-01-20T12:25:00.001-07:00

Hamilton, Ontario - The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced today that Casey Creehan has been hired as the team's defensive coordinator.

Creehan joins the Ticats after spending the last two seasons as linebackers coach with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

"I'm very excited to add Casey to our staff as defensive coordinator," said head coach George Cortez. "He's been involved with an exciting style of defence in Winnipeg over the last couple of years and after working together in Calgary, I know that Casey is capable of leading an energetic, aggressive defence here in Hamilton."

In addition to his two-year stint with the 2011 East Division champions, Creehan has spent one season (2008) with the Montreal Alouettes as linebackers coach and four seasons (2004-07) with the Calgary Stampeders as defensive line coach.

"I'm honoured to have the opportunity to join the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and work with Coach Cortez, whose track record as a coach speaks for itself," said Creehan. "We look forward to creating a fast, physical defence that is centred on fundamentals."

Creehan has also held various coaching positions with Eastern Michigan, James Madison University, Clarion University, Southern Illinois University and Lehigh University.

STAMPS SIGN LOCAL PRODUCT

2012-01-20T12:23:00.001-07:00

Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel is pleased to announce the signing of non-import linebacker and local product Jadon Wagner. As per team policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Wagner played his college football at Brigham Young and was a sixth-round selection of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the 2011 CFL Canadian Draft. His rights were acquired by the Stampeders as part of the Sept. 26, 2011, trade that sent safety Milt Collins to Hamilton.

Wagner is an alumnus of Lethbridge Collegiate Institute and is a former member of theCalgary Colts junior program.

"We were pleased to acquire Jadon's rights in the trade with Hamilton in September and that we have been able to come to terms with him," said Hufnagel. "We know that Jadon is excited for the chance to play with the Stampeders and to get a chance to play in his home province."

FRIDAY RODSERVATIONS

2012-01-20T06:05:00.003-07:00

HAPPY FRIDAY!   May the force be with you:

* Never have I been so happy to see minus-17 degrees. That's the forecast for the YQR today and it is a welcome break from the minus-40 we've been experiencing all week. Perhaps my power steering will work over the weekend.

* It will be minus-3 on Saturday, when we head down to Weyburn for the 10th annual Red Wings Sportsmans Dinner. The featured speakers are Hockey Hall of Famer Brad Park, Olympic gold medalist Catriona Lemay Doan and Rider tailback Wes Cates. There are only a handful of tickets left and you can get yours by calling the Red Wing office at 842-2212.

* Speaking of the banquet circuit, Lanny McDonald and Bob Poley were in Shaunavon last weekend raising money for the community. Talk about a gigantic pair of moustaches!    In the live auction two Lanny jerseys went for $6100 and $4200 while a Bobby Orr jersey, donated by the Polecat, fetched $5500. We'll see if Weyburn can top that Saturday night. I bet they can.

* As much as I told people all week not to let the weather get them down, I fell victim to it myself. It's been a horrible week and I'm glad it's over. However as frustrated as I was with Passport Canada this week, I must say the people at the Courthouse were bend-over-backwards accomodating when it came to getting the documents I need. Hats off to them. Today I'll be back in the passport office for attempt #3 at renewing my child's passport.

* Hamilton Tiger-Cats coach George Cortez will be the featured guest on Four Seasons Football Friday on the Sports Cage today on 620 CKRM. We'll also be giving away another guest pass for two to the 4 Seasons Sports Cage Super Bowl party.

* Sportsnet's Arash Madani reports George Cortez will hire Casey Creehan as his defensive coordinator and former Rider coach Jim Daley could find his way in to the mix somehow.

* I must say it was with a pang of disappointment that I learned of the release of Rider quarterback Ryan Dinwiddie. I never liked him as a Blue Bomber (thought he was too cocky), but when he came here I was immediately drawn to him. He fit this province and team like a glove. He was a locker room leader, a jolly good fellow, and will be missed. He may have had more success if put into a better position to be successful but now we'll never know. If he does eventually get into coaching, I hope he winds up back here.

* There's no reason not to go to tonight's Regina Pats-Medicine Hat Tigers game in the Brandt Centre. The weather has broken, the Pats could use your support and they're a fun team to watch. Game time is 7:00. 620 CKRM has the radio broadcast with Dan Plaster while Access 7 has the television broadcast with me. PVR it!

* People must really enjoy smoking to stand in minus-40 degree temperatures.

* You know how fascinated I am with the entertainment industry, particularly when it rolls through Regina. Specifically I'm consumed by what the artists demand in their rider. For instance, Alan Jackson needed steps only six inches high because his Wranglers were too tight to go up regular stairs. Katy Perry needed a glass door on her refrigerator. Jerry Seinfeld wanted an entire theatre to himself to watch Rising of The Planet of The Apes at Normanview Galaxy.    But not Larry The Cable Guy, who performed Saturday night under the orange top. All Larry wanted in his dressing room was pop, water and plenty of Skoal Berry. He was in the building 45 minutes before the show and out three minutes after.

* Today is the deadline for us to vote for CFL Coach of the Year. We have two votes and my first went to Wally Buono while the second went to Kavis Reed. What are yours?

* The poll is now closed for the Canadian Blog Awards 2011 Sports Blog of the Year. My fingers are crossed for this blog to win.

* Went to the movie The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo last night. That show was way, way, waaayyyy too disturbing for me.   Put it this way; I've never actually seen a rape before my own eyes before. The story and ending are great, but don't go if you have a queazy stomach. It's a little much.

* Did you know Thursday was national POPCORN day? Southland Cinemas was giving away popcorn with the purchase of a drink. Who decides these things? In that case, today is national BLOG day! Please enjoy responsibly.

* Not since Clint Malarchuk had his throat slashed over 20 years ago did I wince so much at an on-ice incident as I did with Taylor Hall this week.

This photo of Taylor was tweeted by the Oilers PR staff. Frankly I would have expected the injury to be far worse but I can't imagine how long it will be before he's able to get a helmet back on.   Poor guy.

* The NHL says it "encourages" helmets to be worn during warmups. TSN did a nice piece this week on how NHLers feel about not wearing helmets in warmups. The Wild's Dany Heatley says "it's cool". Let me ask you this Dany -- is that picture of Taylor Hall "cool"? It's time for helmets to be mandatory in warmups.

* Dear Bad Guys: Please don't steal our cars when they're left outside running in minus-30 degrees.   Remember when that happened last year to the Pats' Shane Neigum? He ran into a 7/11, left his car running in the cold, and had it swiped. I'm sure he doesn't have to worry about that in Ontario, California with the ECHL's Reign. At least, that's the last I've heard of where he is.

* It's Don Hay Bobblehead Night tonight at the Pacific Coliseum as Hayzer's Giants host the Everett Silvertips. I'm told they had to replace the initial order of Don Hay bobbleheads because they had a World Junior gold medal around his neck.   Wouldn't it have been easier just to paint the medal bronze?

* I have been swamped with requests from friends for NHL tickets.   Let me please just say this one time: I don't do tickets! I am not Ticketmaster. I particularly like the oft-used line "I'm willing to pay for them, I just wondered if you could line some up". Then go to the box office!!

* The Global and CTV morning news shows have been the talk of the town since their launch in the late fall.   You've got to wonder if it's huring morning radio ratings.

* The Rogers and Blockbuster Video stores in town are boarded up (for the most part). They had a good run, but it's over. You've got to evolve.

* It would appear Tuesday nights at 6:30 will be our regular NBA timeslot with insider Jeff Armstead. We've received plenty of positive feedback from listeners who feel it's a nice change of pace from the regular football and hockey talk.

* My NBA teams are the Raptors #1, the Lakers #2 and the rest of the NBA #3. I follow the league fairly closely. Much moreso than MLB and the PGA.

* The Raptors, by the way, have lost 6 in a row and are the lowest-profile team in the NBA. Have you noticed the teams with the biggest fanbases in sports are the ones which win the most? The Riders are the exception which proves the rule.

* We've also received a positive reaction to our increased curling coverage in the Sports Cage. Unfortunately Regina's Derek Boe, whom appeared on the show on Wednesday and is our favourite in the SaskTel Mens Southerns, lost 10-6 to Langenburg's Jeff Hartung in their opening draw Thursday night in Swift Current.

* What's your favourite coffee shop? Mine has become the Tim Hortons in Harbour Landing, most days. That is, unless I'm at Gold's Gym in which case I hit the Robin's Donuts in Normanview. I wonder what Tim Hortons is paying Sidney Crosby to be their spokesman.

* Also, Tim Hortons needs to put those photos of Tim Horton back up in their donut shops. The girls in my family didn't even know who Tim Horton was, or that he played for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

* A blog commenter wrote in this week to say the Riders should sign Terrell Owens.   Unfortunately this week he signed with the Indoor Football League's Allen (Texas) Wranglers, a team with which T.O. will also be part-owner.

* I've heard some absolutely disgusting redneck comments about the Rider coaching staff from several people around here the past few weeks. It's embarrassing. Get with the times you guys.

* Today's Press Box Sports Bar lunch buffet menu from Chef Trent:
Roast beef
Mashed Potatoes
Carrots and gravy
Penne pasta with a steak and mushroom sauce (hmmmmmm)
Terriyaki chicken wings
Caesar salad
Lemon chicken and rice
Pizza
An assortment of desserts

SEE YOU IN THE CAGE AT 5 AND ON ACCESS TONIGHT!
RP

PATS WEEKEND GAME NOTES

2012-01-20T02:12:00.002-07:00

Regina, Saskatchewan – With just 25 games left in the regular season, the Regina Pats find themselves in a six team race for home ice advantage in the first round of the WHL Playoffs. This weekend, the blue and white will host two of those teams beginning tonight against the Medicine Hat Tigers and then Saturday it’s the Moose Jaw Warriors.

Medicine Hat Tigers @ Regina Pats
TONIGHT
Brandt Centre
Radio: 620 CKRM
TV: Access 7

This is the third time this season that the Pats and the Tigers have met with Regina winning the first two games including late September in Medicine Hat and November in Regina. Morgan Klimchuk scored the game winning goal in both of the Pats wins.

Who to look for:
C – Emerson Etem
The two time representative for the U.S. at the World Junior Hockey Championships is averaging a goal a game this season with 39 markers in 40 games. The 19 year old native of Long Beach, California is a 1st round pick of the Anaheim Ducks.

G – Tyler Bunz
The 19 year old WHL veteran is a 5th round pick of the Edmonton Oilers in the 2010 NHL Draft. He is currently second in the WHL with 25 wins and is fantastic playing the puck with four assists this season.

Salute to Moms!
Tonight is also Salute to Hockey Mom’s Night with the Regina Pats honouring the backbone of any hockey player…mom! Team ticket packages are just $175 and with that ticket package, all the players’ moms get into the game free. Tonight, the Pats will also be honouring their billet moms and player video messages on what their mom means to them will also run throughout the night.

Moose Jaw Warriors @ Regina Pats
Saturday, January 21st, 2012
Brandt Centre 7:00pm
Radio: 620 CKRM

This is the fifth time this season that the best rivalry in the WHL heat up an just the second time at the Brandt Centre. The last time these two teams met was December 9th when a Lane Scheidl overtime winner was the difference in a 3-2 Pats win at Mosaic Place in Moose Jaw.

Who to look for:
LW – James Henry
The 20 year old forward is one of two new WHL Trade Deadline additions to the Warriors. The former Vancouver Giants captain came to Moose Jaw in exchange for a pair of high WHL Bantam Draft picks

C – Cam Braes
Braes is the other Trade Deadline addition to the Warriors. The 20 year old former captain of the Lethbridge Hurricanes has had a great start with the Warriors, picking up 7 points in his first four games.

Pats Show Off Their Skills This Sunday!!:
The 2nd annual Prairie Mobile Pats Skills Competition is set for Sunday, and if last year’s debut event was any indication, this year’s will be a must see event. The five event challenge (fastest skater, hardest shot, accuracy, 3-way passing breakout and the shootout) is set to begin at 2pm on Sunday, January 22nd at the Co-operators Centre and admission is FREE! All of the Regina Pats will take part as well as the Tier One Sabres from Hockey Regina.

Flex Packs!:
The Pats have 15 home games remaining during the second half of the season and the best and most affordable way to catch all of the action is by purchasing flex-pack. They come in packs of 8, 12 and 18 so you can build a Flex Pack around your schedule and budget! The deadline for purchasing a Flex Pack is coming soon, so call the Regina Pats office ASAP at 522-5604.

(Courtesy Dan Plaster)

2ND ANNUAL PRAIRIE MOBILE SKILLS ON SUNDAY

2012-01-20T01:09:00.001-07:00

Regina, Saskatchewan – The Regina Pats will put their individual skills on display in the Second annual Prairie Mobile Pats Skills Competition. This Sunday, January 22nd, 2:00pm at the Co-operators Centre, the Pats will be split into two teams and compete in:

Puck control relay – Observe players demonstrating stick-handling versatility
Fastest Skater – Feel the exceptional speed of WHL players on their skates
Hardest Shot – Hear the power of a WHL slapshot
Accuracy Shooting – Marvel at the precision of a WHL shot
Breakaway Relay – Witness the most explosive speed, agility and power

The Prairie Mobile Pats Skills Competition will be organized and executed by the same company that does the NHL All Star Game SuperSkills Competition.

The Pats will be joined in the competition by the Tier One Sabres from Hockey Regina. They will take part in all five of the events with their points affecting the team totals.

The event will be hosted by The Wolf Morning Show with Chad and Ballsy from 104.9 The Wolf as well as Seanna from The Wolf Workforce and Ryan Schultz from 620 CKRM.

Admission to the 2nd annual Prairie Mobile Pats Skills Competition is free!

“With the popularity of the event last year, we felt that it was important to continue and improve the Prairie Mobile Pats Skills Competition with this year’s event.” Regina Pats Vice-President of Operations, Cliff Mapes continues, “We would like to thank Prairie Mobile Communications as well as Hockey Regina for their continuous support of this competition and of the Regina Pats all season long.”

Prairie Mobile Communications Regional Manager, Sales and Marketing, Shae Paisley, "Prairie Mobile is once again proud to be the title sponsor of the Prairie Mobile Pats Skills Competition. We see this event as a great opportunity for the younger hockey players in our community to spend some quality time with the Pats players that they look up to. The Pats players are great role models to these kids and we at Prairie Mobile are honored to be part of this yearly event."

THURSDAY SPORTS CAGE PODCAST

2012-01-19T17:50:00.000-07:00

We talked about the officiating in Wednesday night's Pats game with the Silver Fox Kelly Remple in Thursday's podcast. Also Sportsnet's Arash Madani joined me to talk NFL and CFL, and Sam Cosentino appeared to discuss CHL hockey. You can listen to the show here:
SportsCage 1-19-2012 5;08;29 PM by ridervoice

TAMAN UPDATES THE FANS

2012-01-19T14:25:00.000-07:00

Roughrider GM Brendan Taman met with the media on Thursday to give the team's position on all the latest goings-on in Riderville. Here's what he had to say:

ON THE REMAINING LB'S (MCCULLOUGH, LLOYD, STEWART)

It's the experience thing. You can go out and sign guys who have experience but I think we can find some new guys who don't have the experience but who can fit in. We have MO and Chris Graham right now that we can play with in the middle but we'll sign some new guys. Some of the DBs we have can fit into the dime spot too.

ON OWNING THE #1 PICK IN THE DRAFT

It's gonna take a lot to move it and I don't foresee us doing that.

ON HUSKIES OL BEN HEENAN, THE TOP PROSPECT

He's a good player. There's a lot of other names out there but a young offensive lineman is pretty valuable. Whether he's the best pick at that spot, we'll see, but he's pretty high up in our rankings.

ON COLE BERGQUIST

He needs work and he'll have competition. We're not just going to give him the #2 spot. Where that plays out, we'll see, but we're not just gonna give him the job. His contract won't come into play there.

ON CONTRACT TALKS WITH DARIAN DURANT

We've talked and I'm actually going to meet with him this afternoon about a number of things. We're not in a hurry to do that. We'll continue to talk and we'll see where it goes.

ON KOCH AND GETZLAF

Koch's free in a month and Chris is going into his option. The option year guys are important but right now the free agents are the priority.

ON ANDY FANTUZ

Really nothing's changes since the last time I talked to you guys. February 15 is the date and I don't see anything changing.

ON DINWIDDIE'S FUTURE

We talked about him coaching at the end of the year but the staff worked out the way it did. Absolutely he's a very bright guy who wants to get into coaching and I could see him having a very bright future in that. From talking to him, he wants to still play but he knows ultimately his future is in coaching. He has a lot of contacts in the States. He's a good individual but the biggest thing we'll miss is his relationship with Darian.

ON GENE MAKOWSKY

I'm about to meet with Gene in the next couple of days to see where we're at with everything. I know him and Jeremy O'Day have talked and he spoke with Corey Chamblin on the weekend. We'll see where that goes. I haven't talked to Gene myself but we'll see where that goes shortly.

ON WES CATES

We're continuing those talks and we've told Wes we'll let him know shortly what his status is going to be.

RIDER MOVES

2012-01-19T08:32:00.001-07:00

The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced today that they have signed import offensive lineman Clint Oldenburg and import defensive lineman Boo Robinson to the roster. Financial details of the signings were not released. The team also announced they have released import quarterback Ryan Dinwiddie from the roster.

Oldenburg (6'5 – 300 lbs) was released by the Washington Redskins in September after signing to the team's practice squad in 2009. The 28-year-old was originally drafted by the New England Patriots in the fifth round (171st overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft. After being released from the Patriots' practice roster, Oldenburg went on to sign and spend time with the New York Jets, St. Louis Rams, Denver Broncos and Minnesota Vikings until landing in Washington. Most recently the Colorado State product spent time with the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League.

Robinson (6'1 – 310lbs) most recently spent time with the Buffalo Bills before his contract expired in 2011. In 2010, the 24-year-old spent time with the Philadelphia Eagles, Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills. Prior to that, Robinson played four seasons at Wake Forest at defensive tackle where he earned a starting spot after his freshman year. In his senior year, he played in 12 games registering 37 tackles, three quarterback hurries and 2.5 tackles for a loss.

Dinwiddie came to the Green and White prior to the 2010 CFL season when he signed as a free agent. In his two seasons with the Riders, the 31-year-old completed 62 of 123 pass attempts for 950 yards, five touchdowns and five interceptions. He also added 13 carries for 65 yards.

ICE 3 PATS 2 OT

2012-01-19T06:15:00.004-07:00

REGINA -- Sam Reinhart was the hero for the Kootenay Ice Wednesday night. Reinhart scored on the powerplay with 7:26 remaining in regulation to force overtime, then added the game-winner while on the man advantage at 3:32 of the extra session for a 3-2 victory over the hometown Regina Pats.

The Pats led for almost the entire game as rookie Morgan Klimchuk gave the Pats a 1-0 lead after the first period and another Klimchuk goal in the second frame gave Regina a 2-1 lead going into the third. However three powerplay goals by the Ice in the game allowed the Cranbrookians to come back and steal the victory.

NOTES: Regina outshot the Ice 26-23 ... Matt Hewitt took the loss in the Regina goal making 23 saves ... Kootenay was 3/7 on the powerplay while Regina was 1/6 ... The attendance was 3382 ... If the playoffs started today, Regina (6th) would face Kootenay (3rd) in round one.

After the game Pats coach Pat Conacher let the officials have it. Here's a snippet from Greg Harder's Leader Post Slap Shots blog:

- "Afterwards, Pats head coach Pat Conacher was less-than impressed with the work of referees Chris Crich and Cole Hamm.

“Those guys don’t work hard enough to get down the ice and they’re definitely not together. They’re lazy getting up the ice,” said Conacher, who referred to the penalty against Davidson as a “very bad call both ways.”

“There should have been an interference call on Jordan Weal (late in the third) and there could have been a holding call on Dyson Stevenson at the blueline. Then they come down and call that on Brandon. I’m going, ‘Come on guys, give us a break.’ ”

*I smell a fine. Even though Pat's probably right.

The Pats (25-17-4-1) host the Medicine Hat Tigers Friday night at 7:00 pm on 620 CKRM and Access 7. It's a "Salute To Hockey Moms" night, and here are the details from the news release.

***

Regina, Saskatchewan – For most hockey players, may it be in minor, junior or pro, the backbone of their life is mom. The Regina Pats recognize this and Friday night against the Medicine Hat Tigers will be “Salute to Hockey Mom’s” night.

For Friday night only, any minor hockey team that purchases a team ticket package, each player’s mom will get in for free! Don’t worry dads, you too can get in at a discount price if your ticket is purchased with the team ticket package.

Regina Pats Vice-President of Operations, Cliff Mapes “As an organization, we know how much work hockey moms put into getting their sons and daughters to early morning practices, weekend games, washing their uniform, dealing with the bumps and bruises and everything else needed during a hockey season. We just want to recognize how important moms are in hockey.

A team ticket package of 16 player tickets and four coaches is $175, and with that, the mom’s of each player will get in for free.

For ticket package information, call Corey Hoskins at 337-1543 or Matt Geiger at 337-1538.

THIS WEEK IN COUGAR ATHLETICS

2012-01-19T01:16:00.000-07:00

Women’s Basketball (CIS Ranking: No. 1) – The No.1-ranked Cougars are now 11-0 after defeating the Manitoba Bisons 84-60 on Friday and 105-52 on Saturday. They’ll finally return home for the first time in over two months this weekend, as the Cougars host Fraser Valley (Friday) and Trinity Western (Saturday) at the Centre for Kinesiology, Health & Sport. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:15 p.m. on both nights.

Men’s Basketball – The Cougars (3-8) were defeated twice on the road by Manitoba last weekend, losing by scores of 116-87 and 94-83 to the Bisons. Though the Cougars enter the weekend in seventh place in the Prairie Division standings, they sit just 1½ games back of Brandon and Lethbridge, who are tied for the final playoff spot with identical 5-7 records. The Cougars face Fraser Valley (7-5) and Trinity Western (6-6) this weekend at the CKHS.

Men’s Wrestling (CIS Ranking: No. 1) – The Cougars took first place in the overall standings last Saturday at the Cougar Open and boasted five individual champions, including Steven Schneider, Gilbert Musonza, Kirk Ackerman, Mark Ballon, and Connor Malloy. The team – which finished with a 16-point cushion over second-place Saskatchewan – will be back in action this Saturday at the Minot State Open.

Women’s Wrestling (CIS Ranking: No. 8) – The U of R finished in second place in the overall standings at Saturday’s Cougar Open, with Jasmine Slinn recording the Cougars’ top finish of the day after going undefeated at 48 kilograms. Kristine Longeau and Lisa McKibben both placed second for the Cougars. Longeau, McKibben, Slinn, and Danielle Anderson will all represent the U of R at the Guelph Open this Saturday.

Track & Field (Men’s CIS Ranking: No. 7) – After a weekend off, the Cougars are back at it this weekend in Edmonton. The men’s and women’s teams will take part in the Golden Bear Open, which will be hosted by the University of Alberta starting on Friday and running through to Saturday. The 4x200-metre relay team and four individual athletes – Tevaughn Campbell (60-metre dash), Tait Nystuen (300-metre dash), Chris Pickering (shot put), and Michael Barber (pentathlon) are ranked No. 1 in Canada West on the men’s side, while Shalane Haselhan (long jump) and rookie Megan Rumpel (pentathlon) are the top-ranked athletes in the conference for the U of R’s women’s team.

Women’s Hockey – The Cougars (6-11-1) got their offence clicking in a weekend home sweep over UBC, as they won 5-2 on Friday night and 5-1 on Saturday. Paige Wheeler had a pair of three-point games for Regina, getting a goal and a pair of assists on Friday and scoring twice and adding a helper on Saturday. The Cougars have a weekend off before returning to the ice on Jan. 27 and Jan. 28 at home against Calgary.

Men’s Hockey – The Cougars (4-14-2) were defeated twice by UBC over the weekend, dropping a 4-2 decision on Friday and surrendering a pair of late goals in a 4-0 loss on Saturday. Still just three points out of playoff position in the conference standings, the Cougars will have this weekend off and return to action on the road at Calgary on Jan. 27 and Jan. 28.

Men’s Volleyball – The Cougars (4-10) were defeated twice last weekend by a tough No. 2-ranked Manitoba Bisons squad, losing 3-1 on Friday night and in straight sets on Saturday night. The U of R has a weekend off before returning to action on Jan. 27 and Jan. 28 against UBC Okanagan in Kelowna, B.C.

Women’s Volleyball – The Cougars (2-12) were swept by No. 6 Manitoba last weekend at the CKHS, losing in straight sets on both Friday and Saturday. The U of R will be back on the court on Jan. 27 and Jan. 28, when the Cougars will hit the road for their first ever Canada West matches against conference newcomer UBC Okanagan.

WEDNESDAY SPORTS CAGE PODCAST

2012-01-18T17:12:00.001-07:00

In Wednesday's podcast of the Sports Cage, Scruffy and I talked all kinds of sports and were joined by Weyburn Red Wings GM Ron Rumball:
SportsCage 1-18-2012 5;10;13 PM by ridervoice

WEEK 17 CHL TOP TEN

2012-01-18T14:42:00.000-07:00

1 Tri-City Americans (34-10-0-0)
2 London Knights (32-9-0-1)
3 Shawinigan Cataractes (32-10-2-2)
4 Kamloops Blazers (31-10-1-2)
5 Plymouth Whalers (30-10-2-1)
6 Saint John Sea Dogs (32-13-0-2)
7 Quebec Remparts (29-9-4-2)
8 Portland Winterhawks (30-12-2-1)
9 Edmonton Oil Kings (29-11-1-4)
10 Kitchener Rangers (28-12-1-0)

Honourable Mention:
Ottawa 67's (26-11-4-1)
Victoriaville Tigres (29-15-0-2)
Niagara IceDogs (26-13-0-3)

DINWIDDIE GONE

2012-01-18T13:33:00.003-07:00

From Sportsnet and CKRM's Arash Madani:

Axe continues to fall in Regina: The #SskRoughriders will release back-up QB Ryan Dinwiddie. Announcement from the #Riders ahead. #CFL

ESKS RELEASE FOUR, SIGN ONE

2012-01-18T13:33:00.001-07:00

(Edmonton) The Edmonton Eskimos have released kick returner Jason Armstead, defensive back Jykine Bradley, offensive lineman Chris Patrick and defensive lineman Joe Sykes and signed free agent import defensive back Michael Ricks, the club announced today.

MORE STAMPS MOVES

2012-01-18T11:58:00.001-07:00

Calgary Stampeders import defensive lineman DeVone Claybrooks has announced his retirement from playing professional football.

Claybrooks, 34, spent the past three seasons with the Stampeders and was a member of the Montreal Alouettes for two seasons before that. Over his five-year CFL career, Claybrooks played 75 regular-season games and recorded 161 tackles and 14 sacks and recovered two fumbles.

"I want to thank the Calgary Stampeders organization for three great seasons," said Claybrooks. "Football is my passion and the Stampeders and Alouettes gave me the opportunity to do something I loved every day."

The Stampeders also announced on Wednesday that Claybrooks will continue to be a member of the organization as he has agreed to become the team's defensive line coach. In 2011, Claybrooks was one of the leaders on the defensive line, playing 15 regular-season games and one playoff game. His leadership was evident throughout the season as Claybrooks coached several of the Stamps' young linemen.

"Moving into the coaching ranks is a natural progression in my career," said Claybrooks. "My goal was to coach and to be able to stay in Calgary, so I'm obviously thrilled."

***

Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel is pleased to announce his defensive coaching staff for the 2012 season.

DAVE WALKOSKY, as previously announced, will be the team's new defensive coordinator. Walkosky was the team's linebackers coach in 2011, his first season in the CFL. Prior to his time with the Stamps, Walkosky was head coach at Tiffin University in Ohio for three years. Walkosky's 20-year career also includes assistant-coaching positions at Washington State, Toledo, Tennessee-Martin, Waynesburg College and Memphis.

DEVONE CLAYBROOKS, a CFL veteran of five seasons, has retired from playing andwill be the Stamps' defensive line coach. Claybrooks played three seasons with the Stamps and two seasons with the Montreal Alouettes including in 2008, when Montreal made it to the 96th Grey Cup. Claybrooks also played in the NFL and NFL Europe and was a member of the 2002 Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Super Bowl championship team.

TONY MISSICK returns for his second season as defensive backs coach. In 2011, Missick coached a young core of Stamps defensive backs that helped the team allow the third-fewest yards passing in the CFL. The Stamps defence also led the league in interception-return yards with 423, led by one of Missick's defensive backs, Keon Raymond. Prior to his time in Calgary, Missick had extensive coaching experience in arena and college football.

ICE IN TOWN TONIGHT

2012-01-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

The Regina Pats are back in action tonight as they host the Kootenay Ice! It's Wiener Wednesday at the Brandt Centre with 2 for 1 hot dogs all night long. This is the second time that the Pats and the Ice have faced each other with the first meeting coming in the second week of the season in a 5-2 Ice win at the Cranbrook Rec Plex.

Kootenay (25-13-5) @ Regina Pats (25-17-4)
Wednesday, January 18th, 2012
Brandt Centre 7:00pm (Tickets at http://www.ticketmaster.ca/ or call 543-7800)
Radio: 620 CKRM (6:35 Press Box Sports Bar pregame show)

The Ice are tied with the Saskatoon Blades for third in the Eastern Conference, just one point ahead of both the Pats and the Medicine Hat Tigers. They are the top defensive team in the WHL as they have given up just 107 goals this season for a goals against average of 2.49 per game.

Who to look for:
G – Nathan Lieuwen
The 6th round pick of the Buffalo Sabres in the 2011 NHL Draft is second in the WHL in goals against average (2.12) and save percentage (.927) while his 19 wins if s good for 9th in the WHL.

C – Max Reinhart
The 3rd round pick of the Calgary Flames is tops on the Ice in scoring with 50 points and was key to their 5-2 win over the Pats in September with two goals and two assists.

Pats Show Off Their Skills:
The 2nd annual Prairie Mobile Pats Skills Competition is set for this Sunday, and if last year's debut event was any indication, this year's will be a must see event. The five event challenge (fastest skater, hardest shot, accuracy, 3-way passing breakout and the shootout) is set to begin at 2pm on Sunday, January 22nd at the Co-operators Centre and admission is FREE! All of the Regina Pats will take part as well as a selected team from Hockey Regina as well as members of the media.

(Courtesy Dan Plaster)

SAD NEWS: BARKER RETIRES

2012-01-18T08:14:00.001-07:00

Hamilton, Ontario - Hamilton Tiger-Cats safety Dylan Barker, a Moose Jaw product, announced his retirement from football today due to a chronic back injury.

"I would like to thank everyone involved with my CFL career, especially the Hamilton Tiger-Cats organization, for four great years that I will never forget. I couldn't have had better teammates, coaches, managers, and mentors, or played in front of better fans," said Barker.

Barker continued, "When I was drafted four years ago, I envisioned having a healthy, long career in the CFL. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen injuries I can no longer continue my football career and will now pursue interests outside of football at the University of Saskatchewan. Again, I'd like to thank all of TigerTown for four of the most memorable years of my life."

After a standout CIS career at Saskatchewan, the Ticats selected Barker with the first overall pick in the 2008 CFL Canadian Draft. Barker would miss the entire 2008 season after suffering a leg injury during the preseason, but tied a CFL record with 37 special teams tackles while adding six defensive tackles and an interception in 2009.

He started 13 of 17 regular season games in 2010 before missing the 2011 season due to a back injury. Barker totaled 40 defensive tackles, 51 special teams tackles and four interceptions in 35 games during his CFL career.

"It's very unfortunate to see Dylan's promising football career end at such an early age. During his time in Hamilton, he was a positive contributor on and off the field who represented the club with strong character. We wish him nothing but the best as he begins his new career," said general manager Bob O'Billovich.

COACHING MOVES

2012-01-18T08:13:00.001-07:00

Mississauga – The Toronto Argonauts Football Club announced today that Offensive Coordinator Jonathan Himebauch has accepted a position coaching football at an NCAA BCS school (Wake Forest) and will not join the club for the 2012 season.

Commented Argonauts Head Coach, Scott Milanovich, "When we signed Jonathan, we allowed him a window to pursue collegiate jobs. Jonathan found a lucrative position with potential for growth and we wish him continued success. Knowing this was a possibility, we have been working on an alternate plan and expect to have more announcements shortly."

**Meanwhile the Alouettes have confirmed defensive coordinator Tim Tibesar has resigned from the club to take a position at Purdue.

COLTS INTERESTED IN TRESTMAN?

2012-01-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

ESPN reports that there is an "outside chance" that the 2-14 Indianapolis Colts, who just fired coach Jim Caldwell, will interview Marc Trestman, who is a graduate of the University of Miami's law school and was considered for his alma mater's top coaching spot back in 2010.

Trestman worked for the Hurricanes from 1981 until 1985 when he signed on with the Minnesota Vikings. Four years later, he became the offensive coordinator with the Cleveland Browns. He's also spent time with the San Francisco 49ers, Detroit Lions, Arizona Cardinals, and Oakland Raiders.

Trestman is in his final year as coach of the CFL's Montreal Alouettes, according to the Montreal Gazette.

Other folks likely on the list for the Colts, ESPN notes, are Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg and Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy.

(Courtesy www.yahoo.ca)

TUESDAY SPORTS CAGE PODCAST

2012-01-17T17:42:00.000-07:00

In this podcast you'll hear from Moose Jaw Warriors voice James Gallo and Sportsnet Calgary's Ryan Leslie with some solid hockey talk:
SportsCage 1-17-2012 5;34;34 PM by ridervoice

BAUMAN TO THE STAMPS

2012-01-17T14:42:00.001-07:00

By Arash Madani
Sportsnet.ca

It didn't take long for Chris Bauman to find a new home.

Less than a week after being cut by the Edmonton Eskimos, the CFL's No. 1 pick in the 2007 draft has come to terms on a two-year deal with the Calgary Stampeders, Sportsnet.ca has learned.

The contract, which includes a team option, does include a signing bonus, but is about a 30% pay cut from the approximate 2012 cap hit of $115,000 had he been retained by Edmonton.

STAMPS NAME COACHES

2012-01-17T09:43:00.000-07:00

Calgary Stampeders head coach and general manager John Hufnagel is pleased to announce his offensive and special teams coaching staff for the 2012 season.

DAVE DICKENSON will return as the team's offensive coordinator. Dickenson oversaw a Stamps offence that was tied for second in points scored in 2011 with 511. Calgaryalso had the second most first downs (402) and finished second in net yards of offence (6,954) and net yards of rushing (2,244). Dickenson enters his fourth season of coaching with the Stamps, starting in 2009 as the running backs coach and then as quarterbacks coach in 2010. This followed Dickenson's storied 13-year playing career in which he spent 11 seasons in the CFL, six of those with Calgary.

MARK KILAM returns for his eighth season with the Stamps and third as special teams coordinator. In 2011, Kilam coached rookie Rene Paredes as the kicker finished fifth in kicking points with 158. Kilam also oversaw a rejuvenated Stamps return team led by Larry Taylor, who finished fourth in combined yards (1,984), third in punt-return yards (538), second in kickoff-return yards (1,008) and first in missed-field goal return yards (232). Prior to his time as specialteams coordinator, Kilam served as linebackers coach and strength and conditioning coach for the Stampeders.

MIKE GIBSON will be the Stamps' offensive line coach. In 2011, Gibson was the team's running backs coach, helping the club finish second in rushing yards. Gibson worked with Jon Cornish, Joffrey Reynolds and LaMarcus Coker, among others, as the club established a solid ground game throughout the year. Gibson enters his second season with the Stamps and ninth overall in the CFL. He spent two seasons as offensive coordinator with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and was also the team's running backs coach. Gibson also spent two seasons with the Saskatchewan Roughriders (assistant head coach and offensive line coach) and three seasons with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (offensive coordinator and offensive line coach).

PETE COSTANZA returns for his fifth season as the Stamps' receivers coach. In 2011, Costanza coached a Stamps receiving core led by Nik Lewis, who was named a CFL All-Star and was the team's nominee for Most Outstanding Player. Costanza also groomed Calgary's young receivers, including Johnny Forzani, who had a breakout season in 2011, Landan Talley and Anthony Parker. Prior to his time with the Stamps, Costanza was head coach of the Albany Conquest in Arena Football League 2. He led that team for four seasons and spent a total of seven seasons in af2.

BRENT MONSON returns for his fourth season with the Stamps, this time as the running backs coach. Monson was defensive line/strength and conditioning coach in 2011 and, in 2010 and 2009, was the team's linebackers and strength and conditioning coach. Prior to joining the Stamps, Monson coached in the amateur ranks, serving as special teams coordinator, defensive backs and strength and conditioning coach for the Steel City Ironmen of the Ontario Varsity Football League for two seasons. He also spent four seasons as special teams, defensive backs and strength and conditioning coach for Bishop Tonnos Catholic Secondary School in Hamilton.

PATS AND HOCKEY REGINA TEAM UP

2012-01-17T09:41:00.001-07:00

"Our intention is to work with the organizers and partner with HRI to help grow this tournament and build on what is already a quality event" commented Pats President Brent Parker "Every year the Regina Pats funnel close to $100,000 into HRI and its various programs as well as other local charities and user groups and this is another opportunity for us to contribute to Minor Hockey in Southern Saskatchewan and our community. We have had many of our current and former player take part in this tournament over the years and it will be exciting to watch some of the future WHL stars showcase their talents here in Regina" continued Parker.

As part of the Pats participation in the event every tournament participant will be a guest of the Pats at our home game on Friday January 26 as the Pats entertain the Swift Current Broncos and each participating Pee-Wee team will have a representative introduced on ice as part of a special pre-game ceremony before that nights WHL game. The tournament will also see the names of the eight division renamed after former Regina Pat players; Jordan Eberle, Josh Harding, Mike Sillinger, Rick Rypien, Derek Boogaard, Jamie Heward, Dale Derkatch and Derek Morris.

Blair Watson, HRI Managing Director – "We are excited about our partnership with the Regina Pats. This year marks the 20th Anniversary of this tournament and it is widely regarded as the premier Pee-Wee Tournament in Western Canada. The newly named Regina Pats Pee-Wee Classic has seen many current and former Pat greats participate including Jordan Eberle who was a tournament All Star in 2003 with the Regina Kings. This partnership brings together two prestigious organizations and we look forward to enhancing our relationship."

This year's tournament runs from January 26-29 at the Cooperators Centre at Evraz Place with the finals taking place on Sunday January 29th.

DOMINGUEZ ON THE RIDERS, FANTUZ

2012-01-17T06:19:00.001-07:00

Roughrider great Matt Dominguez was on the Sports Cage Monday night and provided his thoughts on the Riders' hiring of Corey Chamblin as head coach and the contract status of receiver Andy Fantuz.

ON THE 2012 RIDERS

Initially when all the changes were gonna happen, you heard all the rumblings about names. You heard the sexy name guys, about guys coming forward, or elevate the guy that's already in the program. But I always thought that Coach Chamblin would be great. He's the guy I wanted. If you look at the makeup of the team, with the vets and the rookies, you need a guy with that personality and that type of energy. We went from having an old guy coaching staff to a young guy coaching staff in a short period of time. That's what the team needed.

In 2007 I predicted 12 wins because I saw the culture, the atmosphere and I knew the type of players that were there. Knowing what I know now about this team, the type of systems they'll be instituting, I think we won't regress. I think we'll be around a 10 win season. 10 wins get you in, and that's all that matters.

ON ANDY FANTUZ

When I re-signed with the Riders in December of 2004 ahead of free agency, my situation was totally different. I was an American. You can find import receivers anywhere. But there are very few non-import receivers who can play at Andy's level. Let's now put that aside. Out east, they have two very good quarterbacks in Toronto (Ricky Ray) and Hamilton (Henry Burris). If I'm a receiver and I want to play with a good QB, and I'm thinking about moving, that changes things. In my case, when I was in the NFL, I'd listen to offers from the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans because then my family could go to everyone of my games since I'm from Texas.

I haven't talked to Andy in 2 1/2 months but if he chooses to play for another team, that's his choice. Not many people would turn down a raise to be closer to their family. Not many would.

**You can listen to the entire 15-minute interview with Fantuz in the Sports Cage podcast two posts below.

FREEMAN A COLT

2012-01-16T20:18:00.001-07:00

It was only a matter of time. Free agent linebacker Jerrell Freeman, who spent the 2011 CFL season with the Roughriders, has signed with the NFL's Indianapolis Colts.

Freeman broke the news Monday night on his Twitter account. "Well you've been good to me RIDERNATION, but it i'll b in Colts blue next year!!!," Freeman wrote.

Freeman was the Roughriders' defensive MVP in 2011.

MONDAY SPORTS CAGE PODCAST

2012-01-16T17:56:00.000-07:00

Download Monday's show right here. Our guests included Winnipeg's The Sports Doctor and Rider great Matt Dominguez:
SportsCage 1-16-2012 5;33;38 PM by ridervoice

ESKIMOS SIGN TWO JACKRABBITS

2012-01-16T16:09:00.001-07:00

(Edmonton) The Edmonton Eskimos have signed a pair of former South Dakota State standouts - offensive lineman Mitch Erickson and linebacker Derek Domino.

Mitch Erickson (6-6, 290lbs) started all 44 games during his Jackrabbits career where he split time between guard and tackle. As a senior in 2007, he was named first team Associated Press All America.

In 2008 Erickson signed as an undrafted free agent with the Denver Broncos, where he spent several weeks on the practice roster. The following year, he signed with the Seattle Seahawks. After his release from Seattle, Erickson signed with Omaha in the UFL where he was a two year starter.

Derek Domino (6-3, 235 lbs) was an All Conference performer for the Jackrabbits and a two time academic All Conference . He lead the team in tackles as both a junior and senior with 100 and 103 tackles respectively.

A native of Spring Park, Minnesota Domino signed with the Denver Broncos in the spring of 2011 where he spent the majority of the season on injured reserve.

"We're eager to see both of these young men compete in training camp," said Eskimos General Manager Eric Tillman. "They are smart, high character guys who will fit in well with the successful organization we're building in Edmonton."

LIONS SIGN MITCHELL, CUT TAD

2012-01-16T12:48:00.002-07:00

VANCOUVER -- The BC Lions announced on Monday that import defensive lineman and CFL All-Star Khalif Mitchell has re-signed with the team.

“It’s great news for our club, our fans and our league that Khalif has agreed to remain with the Lions,” said GM and VP, football operations Wally Buono. “Khalif is a great player on the field and a dynamic personality that many of our fans have grown to love.”

“Khalif was an impact player and big part of our championship last season, said head coach Mike Benevides. “Given the choices he had, I believe this signing says a lot about our league and our organization and I am very pleased to have him back.”

Mitchell originally signed with the Lions in the late stages of the 2010 season and was set to contribute to the club’s defensive line from a back-up spot in 2011.

With injuries to fellow defensive lineman Eric Taylor midway through the 2011 campaign, Mitchell got his chance as a regular starter in Week 7 and was a significant part of the Lions’ dominant defensive front that rung up 54 sacks.

“It’s a great feeling to know that I am returning to the organization that gave me an opportunity to develop into the player I am today,” said Mitchell.

“There were choices out there, but in the end I want to be a Lion, I want to be part of this league and I want to spend more time in BC. We have amazing players on both sides of the ball and a very good chance to repeat as champions.”

Finishing the season with 33 tackles and six sacks, Mitchell along with linemates Aaron Hunt and Keron Williams earned West Division All-Star status and a league-wide reputation for relentless effort on every play. The Virginia native also added two defensive tackles and two sacks in the postseason.

The Lions also announced that defensive back Tad Kornegay has been released.

(Courtesy BCLions.com)

PATCHAT

2012-01-16T12:09:00.003-07:00

THIS PAST WEEK
Wednesday: Pats 2 at Raiders 0
A mid-week road trip saw the Pats head into the Art Hauser Centre and shut the door defensively in a 2-0 win over the Prince Albert Raiders. Jordan Weal and Jack Rodewald scored for the Pats while Dyson Stevenson, Matt Marantz and Lyndon Martell all picked up assists. Matt Hewitt with the 26 save performance for his third shutout of the season.

Friday: Royals 3 at Pats 7
The Royals paid their first ever visit to the Brandt Centre and they were looking good after the first two periods of play as they were in a 3-all tie with the Pats. From there, it was all blue and white as Andrew Rieder scored three times in the third period for his first ever WHL hat trick, helping the Pats to a 7-3 win. Jordan Weal notched another 5 point night with two goals and three helpers, while Adam Beukeboom won his second game of the season.

Sunday: Blades 7 at Pats 4
It was all Saskatoon early and often, as the Blades scored 4 times in the first period and once early in the second to stake themselves to a 5-0 lead. The Pats picked up goals from Colton Jobke, Lyndon Martell and Martin Marincin to cut the lead to 5-3 heading into the third. In the final 20 minutes, the Blades scored two more times and were able to roll to the 7-4 victory.

Quote of the Week
"The first one Scheids (Lane Scheidl) shot it on net, I was just lucky enough to be there. The second one, I guess I had a little sniper in me there (laughs). The third was just a lucky bounce and I was there for the rebound." - Andrew Rieder after his hat trick performance on Friday night against Victoria
- Greg Harder, Jan 13th Leaderpost online.

Looking Ahead
Wednesday, January 18th – Ice @ Pats 7:00pm Brandt Centre
This is just the second time this season that the Pats and the Ice will meet and the first time since September 30th in Cranbrook when the Ice won 5-2. The star of the night was Calgary Flames 3rd round pick, Max Reinhart. He had a two goals and two assists for a four point night and is currently leading the Ice in scoring.
Wednesday night is also another edition of "Weiner Wednesday" where it will be 2 for 1 hot dogs all night long!

Friday, January 20th – Tigers @ Pats 7:00pm Brandt Centre
This will be third of four games between the Pats and Tigers with the blue and white taking the first two games on September 28th 5-3 in Medicine Hat and on November 6th, 4-3 in overtime at the Brandt Centre. The Tigers are a high octane scoring machine led by two time World Junior for the Americans, Emerson Etem and 17 year old sniper Hunter Shinkaruk.

Friday is "Salute to Hockey Moms" if minor hockey teams purchase as a team ticket package, their mom's will get in free! Dad's, don't worry, there are discounted prices for you if tickets are purchased with the team package. Call 522-5604 for more information.

Saturday, January 21st – Warriors @ Pats 7:00pm Brandt Centre
The best rivalry in the Western Hockey League heats up again as the Warriors and Pats meet again for the 5th time this season, and just the second time at the Brandt Centre. Three of the four games have been one goal affairs with the Pats winning the last meeting in Moose Jaw on December 9th 3-2 in overtime.

Prairie Mobile Super Skills Competition
Sunday, January 22nd – Co-operators Centre 2:00pm
The second annual "Prairie Mobile Regina Pats Super Skills Competition" is set for this Sunday at 2:00pm at the Co-operators Centre. If last season is any indication, this year's event is going to be a must see event All members of the Regina Pats, selected media members as well as a team from Hockey Regina will take part in the five event competition. Admission is free and everyone should see the skills on display!

In The Community
Community Appearances:
The Pats are headed back into the community and a busy schedule at home on the ice, also means the players will be busy in the community this week and the rest of the month.

This Week's Schedule:
Monday, January 16th:
Wascana Rehabilitation Centre
Food For Learning – Coronation Park School
McLean School – Project 1st Goal Drug Program
St. Angela Merici School – "Brady Brady" Reading Program
Tuesday, January 17th:
W. S. Hawrylak School – Read to Succeed

IN THE LOCKER ROOM
-  On trade deadline day deal, the Pats acquired 19 year old defenceman, Martin Marincin, as well as a 4th and a 7th round pick in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft as well as a 4th in 2013 from the Prince George Cougars in exchange for Ricard Blidstrand, a 1st and 2nd round picks in 2012 and a 5th in 2013. In his first three games with the Pats, Marincin has two goals and two assists.
- Jordan Weal had three goals and four assists this week for the Regina Pats and his 76 points is good for second in the WHL
- Matt Marantz is on a six game point streak which is the longest in his WHL career
- Andrew Rieder picked up his first WHL hat trick this pat Friday night against the Victoria Royals.

Through the Looking Glass
Adam Brooks:
The Pats first pick (2nd round, 25th overall) in the 2011 WHL bantam Draft is currently competing for Canada at the Winter Youth Olympics in Innsbruck, Austria.   Currently Canada is 1-1 after a 5-1 victory over the United States yesterday in a game that saw Brooks score one and pick up an assist. For the tournament, Brooks is tied for second in team scoring with 2 goals and an assist. This season with the Winnipeg Thrashers of the Manitoba Midget-AAA Hockey League, Adam has 30 points in 30 games as a 15 year old rookie. Which is fourth on the team in scoring.

SMITH GETS PLAYER OF THE WEEK

2012-01-16T12:03:00.001-07:00

CALGARY, AB. - The Western Hockey League announced today that Kamloops Blazers forward Colin Smith is the WHL Player of the Week.

Smith collected seven points, scoring three goals and four assists to go with a +6 rating, in three games over the past week helping the Blazers to a 3-0-0-0 record.

THE MONDAY MORNING GOALIE

2012-01-16T05:25:00.008-07:00

RANDOMS:

* I'm starting to think I may be bad luck for the Regina Pats. Every time I go to their games, they lose.   Last night the Queen City Kids spotted the visiting Saskatoon Blades a 5-0 lead and wound up losing 7-4. It was the Blades' fifth consecutive victory and they served notice they'll be a team to be reckoned with in the playoffs. As for the Pats, this team we've heard so much about, they looked pedestrian. Goalie Matt Hewitt had an off night and the Blades all but eliminated leading scorer Jordan Weal (who was held to one assist). A lot of their tactics against Weal were illegal but hey, it ain't cheating if you don't get caught. Here's hoping for a better effort Wednesday when the Pats host Kootenay.

* It was a pleasure hanging out with the hockey types in the upper deck at the Brandt Centre.   They included Todd Ripplinger, Cal Filson, Jamie and Blake Heward, Kurt Wickenheiser, Dustin Molleken, Johnny "What's The Score" Kolonich and OBAMA!

* The crowd was pathetic. In a million years I'll never figure out the Regina hockey fan.   On Friday, I'm told, they were lined up out the box office doors to catch the Pats and the Victoria Royals. Last night you could pick your seat.   What was the difference? NFL playoffs? Crappy weather? A West Conference opponent? You tell me why you did or didn't go.

* While on an Edmonton radio show last week I was reminded of the emotional wounds the Regina sports fan has had to deal with over the past decade. Team 1260 radio host Dean Millard reflected upon the 2001 Memorial Cup and the Pats scoring on themselves in overtime of the semifinal, the 13th Man and Team Canada falling behind 6-1 to Russia in this year's semifinal. Can you believe I was in the booth for them all.

* The thing which caught my eye the most over the weekend was The Hockey News' annual Most Powerful People In Hockey list. At #1 is Sidney Crosby, a choice with which I beg to differ. The highest media personality in the list is Rogers Sportsnet President Scott Moore who's at #32. TSN's Bob McKenzie is #66. Other interesting selections are singer Carrie Underwood (Mrs. Mike Fisher) at #85 and CBC's Elliotte Friedman at #88. It will make an interesting debate on the Sports Cage this week.

* All in all it was a great weekend....

Here's Rider MVP Weston Dressler with my niece Sydney at the 4th Annual Milestone, SK Rink Sportsman's Dinner. My brother tells me between $30,000 and $40,000 were raised between ticket sales, sponsorships and the jersey auction. Weston was kind enough to sign autographs and pose for pictures for as long as it took.

Of course Rider great Scott Schultz made his way down to the event as well.   Provide the caption!

* Weston told the story about how there was a minimum weight requirement on his first ever minor football team in Bismarck, ND. You had to weigh at least 70 pounds. On weigh-in day, Weston wore his heaviest clothes and put rocks in his pockets but still came in at 62 lbs. He eventually got to play because his Dad was the coach and said he didn't have time to coach if Weston couldn't play.

* Speaking of fundraisers, we'll be in Weyburn this Saturday for the Red Wings annual sports dinner. Guest speakers include NHL great Brad Park, Olympic gold medalist Catriona Lemay Doan and Rider tailback Wes Cates. There's a limited number of tickets available. Call the Red Wings office at 842-2212 to get yours!

* A lot of Weyburn-area folk were plenty upset there wasn't more local coverage of Graham DeLaet at the Sony Open in Hawaii after he led the pack by two shots with a smoking 63 on day one. Ummm, he finished tied for 29th. We'll get excited when he's in contention on Sunday. Or even Saturday.

* Heard on the weekend that John Ferguson Jr. will be the next GM of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

* It was a fantastic weekend of football but the best game of the weekend - by far - was Saturday's 49ers/Saints clash at Candlestick Park. It was a thrill-a-minute while the Tebow/Brady clash was a letdown.   Here's a selection of funny comments on Twitter while the Patriots were rolling up a 35-7 halftime lead on their way to a 45-10 beatdown of the Broncos:

Daved Benefield: "Is it 12 midnight, because I smell pumpkin?"

ProFootballTalk: "Good thing the Broncos made their extra point or the final score could have been 66-6"

Rick Reilly: Jesus: "Wait. Isn't the Broncos game on Sunday?"

Jeff Fairholm: "Tebow may have God but New England has Brady and Gronk!"

Geroy Simon: "It was cool while it lasted. I doubt there will be a come back in this game!"

Me (@sportscage): "God just started the bus."

Larry Mueller: "LOL your quote "God just started the bus" #tebow #bestoftheday LOL

Luc Mullinder: "Tim Tebow would dominate the CFL!!!" lol #fact

Jordan Sisco: "I don't care. I still love #tebow"

***

* So the conference championship games go this Sunday with Baltimore at New England at 2:00 pm Sask time followed by the NY Giants at San Francisco at 5:30 pm. Come on, who doesn't want to see a battle of the Harbaugh boys in the Super Bowl??

* It's an interesting contrast of coaches still alive in the NFL playoffs. You've got the up-and-comers in Jim and John Harbaugh (San Franciso and Baltimore) and the crusty curmudgeons in Tom Coughlin (New York) and Bill Belichick (New England). We'll soon find out whose method is best. I'm betting on the young guys.

* According to the USA Today this morning, CBS has asked Tim Tebow to be on their panel for this weekend's games. They're waiting to hear back from Tebow's people.

* Today on the Sports Cage we will launch the Four Seasons Sports Palace Sports Cage Super Bowl party contest! Be listening for your chance to win a spot on the guest list..

* Are the Winnipeg Jets who we thought they were? They've had a tough go lately.

* Spotted together this week in Winnipeg: Marcel Comeau, Todd McLellan and Dennis Beyak. They're all in the NHL now but they were all together with the Saskatoon Blades in the 80s.   Todd's father Bill pointed that out to me last night at the Brandt Centre.

* It's time for goalies to stay in their nets. Each night we see highlights of goaltenders mishandling the puck. Stay in the cage and stop it.

* Not everyone was a fan of "Western Night" in the Saddledome on Saturday when the Flames hosted the L.A. Kings on "Battle of the Sutters" night. Sportsnet's Ryan Leslie opined on Twitter "Isn't Stampede enough?" The fact is every night is Western Night in Calgary. Maybe that's why I feel so at home there!

* In our Titan Auto online poll regarding Andy Fantuz's future, 46% of respondents think there's no way he'll re-sign with the Riders. 21% think he WILL be back while 31% are undecided. Again I say, who would do anything different if they were in Andy's place? Yet, if he leaves, the venom directed at #83 will make the spat with Kent Austin in 1993 look like a kindergarten tiff. Sometimes common sense does not reign in the Rider Nation.

* Speaking of money, the Winnipeg Free Press polled agents for CFL quarterbacks and came up with a rough estimate of salaries. Here's their list:

Anthony Calvillo: $400,000
Ricky Ray: $400,000
Henry Burris: $300,000
Darian Durant: $300,000
Drew Tate: $300,000
Steve Jyles: $250,000
Travis Lulay: $250,000

* If you'll notice, absent from the list is Bomber QB Buck Pierce who's due to become a free agent but is working on a new deal with Winnipeg. The Free Press reports the Bombers are offering Buck an offer of $150,000 with incentives which could get him up to $300,000.   A low-ball? He took you to the Grey Cup! We'll discuss this on the Sports Cage today with The Sports Doctor from Winnipeg.

* The Toronto Sun's Steve Simmons reports former CFL quarterback Mike McCoy is due to become the next head coach of the Miami Dolphins. Simmons wrote on Saturday "McCoy played for new Hamilton coach George Cortez in Calgary and is currently Tim Tebow's offensive coordinator in Denver. Cortez coached Aaron Rodgers while at the University of California. Rodgers is coached in Green Bay by former CFL star Tom Clements. Among others, Sgteve Sarkisian and Jeff Tedford, head coaches at major US schools, were former CFL backups and the recently fired Turner Gill was a CFL starter. Also from the list of former CFL QBs includes Dallas Cowboys coach Jason Garrett who played for the Ottawa Rough Riders.

* The Associated Press reports David Lee has agreed to join the Buffalo Bills as the team's quarterbacks coach, replacing George Cortez. Lee has 37 years of coaching experience and spent last season as Mississippi's offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach (he was also a mentor to Kent Austin). He's spent seven seasons in the NFL including a three-year stint from 2008-2010 with the Miami Dolphins.

* There are several candidates with CFL ties whom are linked to the vacant St. Mary's University head coaching job, according to the Halifax Chronicle Herald. Names making the rounds include form Ticats assistant Dennis McPhee, former CFL and CIS assistant Perry Marchese, former CFL kicker Terry Baker, and former Eskimo Leroy Blugh.

* There are few things I hate more than traveling to east Regina on a Saturday.

* I admire a man who's secure enough to wear a tracksuit in public.

* Don't forget at the Press Box Sports Bar today it's All-You-Can-Eat Soup & Salad for $7.99 and tonight you can get a full rib dinner for just $5.99. INCREDIBLE!

HAVE A GREAT WEEK!
RP

PATS TEAM UP WITH HOCKEY REGINA

2012-01-16T04:23:00.000-07:00

Regina, Saskatchewan – The Regina Pats are pleased to announce a new community initiative in conjunction with Hockey Regina. Beginning with the 2012 event the Regina Pats have committed to become the lead sponsor for HRI's annual Pee-Wee tournament for the next three (3) years, the Tournament will now be known as the Regina Pats Pee-Wee Classic. This event has long been recognized as one of the top tournaments in Western Canada and we will once again be witness to some of the top Pee-Wee aged players during the weekend games.

"Our intention is to work with the organizers and partner with HRI to help grow this tournament and build on what is already a quality event" commented Pats President Brent Parker "Every year the Regina Pats funnel close to $100,000 into HRI and its various programs as well as other local charities and user groups and this is another opportunity for us to contribute to Minor Hockey in Southern Saskatchewan and our community. We have had many of our current and former player take part in this tournament over the years and it will be exciting to watch some of the future WHL stars showcase their talents here in Regina" continued Parker.

As part of the Pats participation in the event every tournament participant will be a guest of the Pats at our home game on Friday January 26 as the Pats entertain the Swift Current Broncos and each participating Pee-Wee team will have a representative introduced on ice as part of a special pre-game ceremony before that nights WHL game. The tournament will also see the names of the eight division renamed after former Regina Pat players; Jordan Eberle, Josh Harding, Mike Sillinger, Rick Rypien, Derek Boogaard, Jamie Heward, Dale Derkatch and Derek Morris.

Blair Watson, HRI Managing Director – "We are excited about our partnership with the Regina Pats. This year marks the 20th Anniversary of this tournament and it is widely regarded as the premier Pee-Wee Tournament in Western Canada. The newly named Regina Pats Pee-Wee Classic has seen many current and former Pat greats participate including Jordan Eberle who was a tournament All Star in 2003 with the Regina Kings. This partnership brings together two prestigious organizations and we look forward to enhancing our relationship"

This year's tournament runs from January 26-29 at the Cooperators Centre at Evraz Place with the finals taking place on Sunday January 29th.

BLADES 7 PATS 4

2012-01-15T20:49:00.000-07:00

REGINA -- The Regina Pats were denied a third straight victory as the Saskatoon Blades built up a 5-0 lead in the Brandt Centre Sunday night and held on for a 7-4 Western Hockey League victory.

On the way to their fifth win in a row, Molleken's Men built up a 4-0 lead after the opening 20 minutes and extended their advantage to 5-0 early in the second frame. The Pats caught a spark in the second period scoring three straight (from Colten Jobke, Lyndon Martell and Martin Marincin) but the hill was too steep to climb. The Blades outscored the Pats 2-1 over the final period to skate off with the victory. Matej Stransky tallied twice in the third while Regina's Lane Scheidl also scored.

NOTES: Matt Hewitt took the loss making 18 saves while Alex Moodie got the win with 34 stops ... Saskatoon was 2/4 on the powerplay while Regina was 1/7 ... The shots were 38-25 for the Pats ... Jordan Weal was limited to one assist for Regina ... Weyburn's Brent Benson scored the game-winning goal at 7:17 of the second period on the powerplay while the Pats were serving a bench minor ... The attendance was 3492 ... Moose Jaw blew out Brandon 8-2 to extend their lead to three points over the Pats for first-place in the WHL's East Division.

Regina (25-17-3-1) hosts Kootenay Wednesday night at 7:00 pm on 620 CKRM (Press Box Sports Bar Pregame Show at 6:35 pm). Pats' voice Dan Plaster will join us on the Sports Cage Monday night at 6:10 pm to discuss the latest on the hockey club.

SUNDAY SPORTS

2012-01-15T01:54:00.002-07:00

Tebow Time is over for this season. The New England Patriots pulverized Tim Tebow's Denver Broncos 45-10 in an AFC divisional playoff game Saturday night to earn a spot in the conference title game. Patriots QB Tom Brady threw for 363 yards, six touchdowns and added a 48-yard punt for good measure. They'll play the winner of Sunday's game between Houston and Baltimore.

---

A nine-year playoff drought for the San Francisco 49ers ended with a victory. Alex Smith's 14-yard touchdown pass to Vernon Davis with nine seconds left gave the 49ers a 36-32 victory over the New Orleans Saints. The 49ers capitalized on five New Orleans turnovers and are now one win away from returning to the Super Bowl for the first time since 1994. They'll play the winner of Sunday's game between the NY Giants and Green Bay in the NFC title game.

---

The NHL's best team roughed up the Toronto Maple Leafs. The New York Rangers beat the Leafs 3-0 to end Toronto's five-game winning streak on home ice. In Montreal, Daniel Alfredsson scored the only goal in a shootout as Ottawa beat the Canadiens 3-2. It's
the Senators' fourth straight win.

---

Mike Cammalleri scored in his first game back in a Calgary Flames uniform but it wasn't nearly enough. Darryl won the Battle of the Sutters as the L.A. Kings knocked off Brent's Flames in the Saddledome 4-1.

---

It was a big night for the Carolina Hurricanes. Jay Harrison scored the winning goal late in the third as Carolina rallied to beat the Boston Bruins 4-2. Elsewhere in the NHL, Patrick Marleau had a late goal to lead San Jose past Columbus 2-1, and the New York Islanders scored twice in the third to double Buffalo 4-2.

---

The Regina Pats shoot for a third straight win Sunday night when they host the Saskatoon Blades in the Brandt Centre. Game time is 6:00 pm on 620 CKRM (Press Box Sports Bar Pregame Show at 5:35 pm). The Pats go into the game one point behind Moose Jaw for first-place in the WHL's East Division. The Warriors are home to Brandon tonight at 7:00.

---

Make it four losses in a row for the beleaguered Toronto Raptors. Derrick Rose had 18 points and 11 assists as the NBA-best Chicago Bulls beat the Raptors 77-64. It was Toronto's fifth game in six days and came one night after a 95-90 loss to Indiana.

---

One night after being ejected against Toronto, Pacers star Danny Granger scored 21 points to lead Indiana past Boston 97-83. It's the Celtics' fourth straight loss, while Indiana improved to 5-0 at home. Elsewhere in the NBA, Philadelphia cruised by Washington 103-90, Atlanta edged Minnesota 93-91 and Charlotte beat Golden State 112-100.

---

Calgary's Taylor Henrich has made the history books at the World Youth Olympics. Henrich became the first Canadian woman to compete in an Olympic ski jumping competition. Women's ski jumping fought an unsuccessful legal battle for inclusion at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. It has since been approved for the 2014 Games in Sochi, Russia.

(With files from the Canadian Press)

PATS 7 ROYALS 3

2012-01-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

REGINA -- Andrew Rieder's third period hattrick propelled the Regina Pats to a 7-3 victory over the Victoria Royals Friday night in the Brandt Centre.

The Royals jumped out to a 2-1 lead after the first period but the Pats came to life in the second frame, tying it at 3-3 headed to the third. That set the stage for Rieder's heroics.

Regina's Jordan Weal added two goals and three assists while defenceman Martin Marincin tallied a goal and two assists in his home debut. Captain Brandon Davidson chipped in with the other Pats' goal.

NOTES: Adam Beukeboom earned the win in goal making 24 saves ... Regina was 1/3 on the powerplay and 3/3 killing penalties ... The attendance was 4368 ... The Royals hold the final playoff spot in the West at 13-25-2-3 ... The Pats improved to 25-16-3-1 with the victory and host the Saskatoon Blades Sunday at 6 pm on 620 CKRM (Press Box Sports Bar Pregame Show at 5:35 pm).

FRIDAY RODSERVATIONS

2012-01-13T05:29:00.004-07:00

Happy Friday the 13th. May it be a lucky day for you. Here's the weekly observations column, free of charge:

• The Montreal Canadiens evidently didn't think much of forward Mike Cammalleri's comment this week that they play like losers because they practice like losers. Last night the Habs shipped Cammalleri to Calgary for Rene Bourque. What a boost for the Flames.

• Speaking of trades, I saw national TV commentators bemoaning the fact there were 76 trades in the CHL during deadline week. They noted 116 players have been moved since January 1 and it's a major upheaval in their life. Whaaaaaaa? We already have no-trade clauses for 16 and 17 year olds. What more do you want? IT'S THE WAY IT'S ALWAYS BEEN and it worked out fine before. Fighting's gone and soon hitting and trades will be too. It's all contributing to the wussification of the sport. "Don't trade me because it will hurt my feelings". How soft are we going to get?

• Dreadful news for Oilers star Jordan Eberle who will miss 2-3 weeks with a knee injury. Hopefully he gets back in time to lead the team in scoring.

• Eberle's good friend Ben Hebert had some good news this week. Hebert broke the story on the Sports Cage that he's an injury replacement for Steve Gould of the Jeff Stoughton rink for this week's Continental Cup of Curling in Langley, BC.

• Oilers coach Tom Renney = Not afraid to throw his players under the bus. Tick, tick, tick. Scruffy is promoting Don Hay to be the next coach of the Oilers.

• The Vancouver Canucks are doing nothing to shed their label of "the most hated team in the NHL". Whine, whine, whine.

• Tuesday in Boston both the Bruins and Jets were awarded a penalty shot in the same game which is the first time that's happened in the NHL since 2005.

• There's nothing like having the Toronto Maple Leafs in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Ron and Don get so fired up on Hockey Night in Canada and the national media goes bonkers. Or, so I recall. I was telling a Leafs fan that the other day in the coffee shop but it's been so long now I barely remember what it's like to have the Leafs in "the tournament".

• Speaking of coffee, Tim Hortons won't even serve a pot of coffee if it's older than 20 minutes. Personally, I prefer the pot that's been sitting there all day. #thatsjustme

• Get out and support the Regina Pats tonight as they host the Victoria Royals at 7 pm on 620 CKRM. It's been a long time since we've seen a Pats team this good. They're three points behind first-place Moose Jaw.

• Hands up for everyone who remembers new Indianapolis Colts GM Ryan Grigson from when he was a pro scout with the Riders in '98? I don't. They say Colts owner Jim Irsay hired Grigson primarily because he gets along with everyone. Uh-oh! Remember what they say about nice guys?

• Are the Riders a fixer-upper or a tear-down? I got the distinct impression from new coach Corey Chamblin yesterday that it's a massive renovation.

• For those who are tired of the annual Andy Fantuz drama, I have one suggestion: buy earmuffs. We're not going to ignore the biggest story with the Riders right now just because you're tired of it.

• It was sad to see Sean Lucas retire on Thursday. He was a great Roughrider. He's entering into the wine business but will be back in football one day. He always told me he'd like to scout.

• Two last-minute, but greatly appreciated, confirmations for our Mexico wedding next month: Mr. and Mrs. Bob Poley and Mr. and. Mrs Roger Aldag. What a thrill! It's going to be epic.

• Word out of Winnipeg is that OL Brendan Labatte (a Weyburn product) will remain with the Bombers if he's made one of the highest paid linemen in the league (if not THEE highest). Word is they will.

• The Bombers are expanding their Offensive Coordinator search outside of Canada. Bomber legend Dieter Brock may get a look.

• How about George Cortez's whopping 4-year deal to be head coach of the Ticats for $400K-plus per season? It would appear he had a gun to their head. Good for him.

• George will be the Offensive Coordinator in Hamilton for at least this season. Wonder if Greg Marshall will coach the D? I don't think the pair has worked together in the past.

• Packers QB Aaron Rodgers on his college coach, George Cortez ""I always appreciated his attention to detail".

• George told me yesterday that he caught the World Junior radio broadcasts on Fan 590 Toronto. "You're wasting your time in football," George said. "You should be in the NHL!" Is that a compliment or a backhanded compliment?? And why is everyone trying to push me out of the CFL??!!

• Looks like Weston Dressler is staying awhile. Real estate agent Jason Clermont was showing the star Rider slotback houses this week.

• Weston and I, along with Scott Schultz, will be broadcasting today's Sports Cage from Milestone, and their annual Sportsman's Dinner.

• Word has come out that the cause of death for former Stamps QB Bob Torrance was heart failure. He was 43 and leaves a wife and three kids behind. Tragic.

• Trivia: Who's the only quarterback to play in the Rose Bowl, Super Bowl, Grey Cup and Final four? If you said Joe Kapp, you're right.

• Saturday night's Broncos-Patriots game will be a ratings bonanza but with Tim Tebow, you only need to watch the last five minutes. Or in the case of last week, the last play. If Denver beats New England, then God is definitely involved.

*If you just can't get enough Tebow coverage, there's a great feature in today's USA Today entitled "Tim Tebow; The Man Behind The Mania". wwww.usatoday.com I read that newspaper everyday.

• We got word this week the Buccaneers will interview former Vikings coach Brad Childress for their vacant coaching job. Childress was out of a job in Minnesota when he locked horns with QB Brett Favre. Same story in Regina with Doug Berry and Darian Durant. The lesson to be learned? The quarterback always wins.

• The BCS title game was a snorefest but Alabama came out on top over LSU Monday night. I was cheering for LSU as it's the alma mater of Ron Estay, Joe Womack and Shaquille O'Neal!

• The most explosive interview of the week was with former Saints QB Bobby Hebert and ESPN Radio's Mike & Mike. Hebert's son plays on the LSU Tigers while Hebert is now a radio personality in NOLA (New Orleans, Louisiana). Hebert skewered LSU coach Les Miles for his game plan in the BCS game and said "I spent 14 years in the NFL ... I've forgotten more about football than Les Miles knows."

• When is the appropriate time to stop saying Happy New Year?

• It's that time of year again. Gold's Gym is packed with the New Year's resolutioners. Now we have to wait until April before the machines are available. That's when they drop off like flies and give up the resolutions.

• The Riders are back in the gym too, after taking December off. It's funny to witness people stand around and watch the Riders pushing so much steel at Gold's. It's their job people! It's what they get paid to do.

• Naomi Judd turned 66 on Wednesday. Bet she still looks great.

• Today's Press Box Sports Bar lunch buffet menu from Chef Trent:

Roast beef
Mashed potato
Carrots and gravy
Honey garlic chicken wings
Penne pasta with a Bolognese sauce
Garlic bread
Salisbury steak

THAT'S IT! TALK TO YOU FROM THE 'STONE
RP

PATS GAME NOTES

2012-01-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

Regina, Saskatchewan – The Trade Deadline is over and the Regina Pats have their sights on a run towards the playoffs, and it starts this weekend with a pair of home games beginning tonight! Friday the 13th will bring $13 adult and senior tickets as the blue and white host the Victoria Royals for the first time at the Brandt Centre. Sunday at 6:00pm at the Brandt Centre, the ice will heat up as the Pats and Blades renew their rivalry for the third time in ten days!
This weekend will also mark the home debut of the two newest members of the Regina Pats in defencemen Martin Marincin (mah-rin-CHIN) and Luke Fenske (FEN-ski).

Victoria Royals @ Regina Pats
Friday, January 13th, 2012
Brandt Centre 7:00pm (Tickets at www.ticketmaster.ca or call 543-7800)
Radio: 620 CKRM (6:35 Press Box Sports Bar pregame show start)

This is the first time that the Victoria Royals will pay a visit to the Brandt Centre. When the franchise was in Chilliwack, the Pats faced the Bruins last season in B.C. and it was Regina winning in a shootout 3-2. This is a young Royals lineup that is led by a pair of highly touted 17 year olds.

Who to look for:
C – Logan Nelson
The native of Rogers, Minnesota is in his first season in the Western Hockey League and is second on the Royals in scoring. He is currently ranked 108th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting.

C – Steven Hodges
Steven is entering his second season in the WHL and has already topped all his stat totals from his 16 year old rookie season. He is ranked 55th in North America according to the recent NHL Central Scouting mid-term rankings.

Saskatoon Blades @ Regina Pats
Sunday, January 15th, 2012
Brandt Centre 6:00pm (Tickets at www.ticketmaster.ca or call 543-7800)
Radio: 620 CKRM (5:35 Press Box Sports Bar pregame show start)

This will be the third time in ten days that the Pats and Blades will face each other with the home teams coming away with victories in the previous two games. Matt Hewitt picked up his second shutout of the season in a 3-0 Pats win on January 6th, while 24 hours later it was the Blades coming away with the 4-3 victory at Credit Union Centre in Saskatoon.

Who to look for:
D – Dalton Thrower
The 18 year old WHL veteran is the Blades top scoring defenceman so far this season and is tops on the club in assists. He is the 30th ranked North American skater according to the recent NHL Central Scouting listings.

C – Lukas Sutter
Lukas is the son of former NHL'er Rich Sutter and is currently second on the Blades in scoring. He is a highly touted forward, pegged as the 86th ranked North American skater by NHL Central Scouting.

Pats Pieces
Five on the Radar:
Three current Pats and two from their 50-man list are on the NHL Central Scouting Mid Term rankings:
18. Brady Skjei (shay) – Listed – currently with the USDT U-18 Program
36. Chandler Stephenson – 1st Rnd, 2009 WHL Draft – 4th on the Pats in scoring
95. Dominik Volek – 1st Rnd, 2011 CHL Import Draft – 7th on the Pats in scoring
192. Rhett Holland – Listed – currently with Okotoks (AJHL)
208. Jack Rodewald – 8th Rnd, 2009 WHL Draft – Two goals and a +4 in January

Two Headed to the Top Prospects Game:
Both Dominik Volek and Chandler Stephenson have been invited to play at the CHL/NHL Home Hardware Top Prospects game on February 1st in Kelowna. Stephenson will play for Team Orr while Volek will play for Team Cherry.

Pats Show Off Their Skills:
The 2nd annual Prairie Mobile Pats Skills Competition is set for next Sunday, and if last year's debut event was any indication, this year's will be a must see event. The five event challenge (fastest skater, hardest shot, accuracy, 3-way passing breakout and the shootout) is set to begin at 2pm on Sunday, January 22nd at the Co-operators Centre and admission is FREE! All of the Regina Pats will take part as well as a selected team from Hockey Regina and members of the local media.

Flex Packs!:
The Pats have 18 home games remaining during the second half of the season and the best and most affordable way to catch all of the action is by purchasing flex-pack. They come in packs of 8, 12 and 18 so you can build a Flex Pack around your schedule and budget!

(Courtesy Dandy Dan Plaster)

COREY CHAMBLIN AUDIO

2012-01-12T19:37:00.000-07:00

New Roughrider head coach Corey Chamblin made his Sports Cage debut Thursday on 620 CKRM. He was in studio for the full hour answering questions from Rider fans. You can listen to the show here:
COREY CHAMBLIN by ridervoice

HAY AND HUSKA TO COACH TOP PROSPECTS

2012-01-12T15:37:00.001-07:00

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League in association with the Western Hockey League Kelowna Rockets Hockey Club and Home Hardware Stores Limited today announced that Canadian National Junior Team Head Coach Don Hay and Team Canada Assistant Coach Ryan Huska will serve as Associate Coaches in the 2012 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game February 1 at Prospera Place in Kelowna, BC.

Hay, who coaches the WHL's Vancouver Giants will join Pat Quinn behind the bench for Team Orr, while Huska, who coaches the host Kelowna Rockets will work alongside Mark Recchi and Team Cherry.

"Coaching Team Orr with my good friend Pat Quinn will be a great experience and I am really looking forward to working with him and the players in Kelowna at the Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game," said Coach Hay. "This is a great event for the players who have a tremendous opportunity playing in front of NHL scouts and alongside other top prospects from around the CHL."

Both Hay and Huska recently earned bronze medals at the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship with Team Canada. Both coaches were participating in the event for the second time with Hay winning gold as Head Coach in the 1995 event in Red Deer, while Huska earned silver last as an Assistant Coach with Team Canada last season in Buffalo.

"Being a part of a special event like the Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game is exciting, and to be involved with it hosted here in Kelowna makes it that much more special," said Coach Huska. "I know how much this game means to the players and it will be fun to work with the prospects alongside Mark Recchi who had a tremendous career in our league and in the NHL."

Hay's coaching record in the WHL is among the best ever currently ranking fourth overall in wins while capturing three MasterCard Memorial Cup titles, most recently in 2007 with the Giants. Huska won a WHL Championship with the Rockets in 2009 and also won three Memorial Cups as a player with the Kamloops Blazers before adding a fourth title in 2004 as an Assistant Coach with the Rockets.

ESKS RELEASE THREE

2012-01-12T15:03:00.001-07:00

(Edmonton) Eskimos General Manager Eric Tillman announced today the club has released non-import offensive lineman Patrick Kabongo, non-import receiver Chris Bauman and import defensive back Wopamo Osaisai.

Kabongo is an eight year veteran, who played at the University of Nebraska. A native of Montreal, he joined the Eskimos in August of 2004 via a trade with Ottawa. Kabongo has been a multi-year all-star and a two time David Boone Memorial Award recipient for his outstanding work in the community.

Bauman, a product of the Regina Rams, was the first overall selection in the 2007 draft. He spent four years with the Hamilton Ticats and, then, in February of 2011 signed with the Eskimos as a free agent. The 6-4 220 pound receiver has 125 career catches for 1643 yards.

Osaisai, a Stanford graduate, played in six games as a cornerback in 2011. He spent time with the San Diego Chargers before coming to the CFL.

"We would like to thank all three men for their contributions to our club, especially, of course, Patrick who has earned substantial respect in our community and organization," said Tillman. "This can be a tough business, and in a salary cap era, many factors have to be taken into consideration when making decisions - age, salary and performance. That said, it's quite possible at least one of these men will be returning to our club in 2012.

LUCAS RETIRES

2012-01-12T09:54:00.001-07:00

The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced today that import linebacker Sean Lucas is retiring from the CFL.

"It is a difficult decision, but it is also the right decision for me," stated Lucas. "I would like to thank the organization, Rider Nation and especially my teammates for a lifetime of memories."

Lucas has spent the last six seasons in Green and White. In that time he has tallied 372 defensive tackles, 23 special team tackles, 17 pass knockdowns, nine tackles for a loss, seven quarterback sacks, five interceptions and three tackles for a loss in 86 regular season games played. He has also played in four playoff games and two Grey Cups and was a member of the 2007 championship team.

In his last season, Lucas played in 15 regular season games and tallied 61 defensive tackles, a team leading five tackles for a loss, three pass knockdowns, two special team tackles and one interception. The 28-year-old originally signed with the Riders as a free agent in May, 2006.

"The entire Roughrider organization thanks Sean for his contributions and dedication to the team over the last six years," stated General Manager Brendan Taman. "He has made the decision to move on to the next phase of his life and we wish him nothing but the best."

RIDER MOVES

2012-01-12T08:21:00.001-07:00

The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced today that they have signed import defensive lineman Brent Hawkins to a new contract. Financial details of the signing were not released. The team also announced they have released import defensive back John Eubanks, import receiver Terrence Nunn and import defensive lineman Remond Willis from the roster.

Hawkins came to the Riders when he signed a free agent deal in April, 2010. In his first CFL season the Illinois State product tallied 31 defensive tackles, four tackles for a loss, three quarterback sacks and two fumble recoveries in 13 games starting at defensive end. Due to a shoulder injury sustained in training camp, Hawkins missed the 2011 CFL season. The 28-year-old was set to become a free agent in February.

Eubanks signed as a free agent with the Riders in February, 2011. He dressed in two games with the Riders and started at halfback in one game. He spent the remainder of the season on the nine-game injured list .He finished the season with three defensive tackles and one special teams tackle.

Nunn signed as a free agent in January, 2011. He started in eight regular season games at receiver and then spent the remainder of the season on the teams nine game injured list. He finished with 13 catches for 171 yards.

Willis signed as a free agent in July, 2011. He played in ten regular season games at defensive end and finished the season on the nine-game injured list. He tallied 22 defensive tackles and one quarterback sack.

PATS 2 RAIDERS 0

2012-01-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

The Regina Pats won again. Thanks largely to a 26 save shutout by Matt Hewitt, the Regina Pats blanked the Raiders in Prince Albert 2-0 Wednesday night. Jordan Weal netted the winner in the second period while Jack Rodewald added the insurance goal later in the frame. It was 0-0 after one period and 2-0 Regina after 40 minutes. Regina was 0/1 on the powerplay and 4/4 killing penalties. Regina (24-16-3-1) is now three points back of first-place Moose Jaw, and the Pats host the Victoria Royals Friday night at 7:00 on 620 CKRM (Press Box Sports Bar Pregame Show at 6:35 pm).

(Photo courtesy PA Daily Herald)

SECOND AND FINAL ROUND OF VOTING!

2012-01-12T05:53:00.001-07:00

Please take a moment today and vote in the Canadian Sports Blog of the Year Poll! This is the second and final round of voting and it ends on January 20th. Please click here and cast your vote:
http://polldaddy.com/poll/5787380/
THANK YOU!

THIS WEEK IN COUGAR ATHLETICS

2012-01-12T05:50:00.001-07:00

Men’s Wrestling (CIS Ranking: No. 1) – Led by Kirk Ackerman’s first-place finish at 68 kilograms, the Cougars finished in second place in the team standings at Saturday’s Golden Bear Open in Edmonton. John Lendvoy (90 kg) also had a strong showing with a second-place performance for the Cougars, who will be in action at home this weekend at the Cougar Open. Matches start at 9 a.m. in the main gym at the Centre for Kinesiology, Health & Sport.

Women’s Wrestling (CIS Ranking: No. 10) – Two Cougars finished in first place in their weight classes at the Golden Bear Open on Saturday, as Danielle Anderson went 4-0 at 55 kilograms and Kristine Longeau won her only match at 67 kilograms. The U of R, which finished in third place in the team standings on the women’s side, hosts the Cougar Open this Saturday beginning at 9 a.m. at the CKHS.

Men’s Volleyball – The Cougars (4-8) return to the Canada West schedule this weekend against No. 2 Manitoba. Tied for seventh place in the Canada West standings, the Cougars will host the Bisons on Friday (8:00 p.m.) and Saturday (6:15 p.m.) at the CKHS. After this weekend, the team only has one home weekend – Feb. 10 and Feb. 11 against Calgary – remaining on the conference slate.

Women’s Volleyball – After posting a 1-2 record at the non-conference New Year’s Classic in Edmonton last weekend, the Cougars (2-10) hosted and trained with the University of Tsukuba’s team for a few days in Regina. The Cougars return to the Canada West schedule this weekend, as they’ll host No. 6-ranked Manitoba on Friday and Saturday night at the CKHS.

Women’s Hockey – The Cougars (4-11-1) were edged twice by Manitoba last weekend, losing 2-0 to the Bisons on Friday night and 2-1 on Saturday night despite Carleen Meszaros’s first CIS goal. The Cougars are back in action at home this weekend, as they’ll host UBC on Friday and Saturday night at The Co-operators Centre. Game time is scheduled for 7 p.m. on both nights.

Women’s Basketball (CIS Ranking: No. 1) – The top-ranked Cougars improved their Canada West record to 9-0 after a pair of road wins at Brandon over the weekend, as they defeated the Bobcats 96-38 on Friday night and 92-46 on Saturday night. The Cougars will head east again this weekend, as they’ll match up against Manitoba (3-7) on Friday and Saturday beginning at 6 p.m. on both nights. Catch the action live at www.canadawest.tv.

Men’s Basketball – The Cougars (3-6) are coming off a road split at Brandon, as the U of R lost 96-73 to the Bobcats on Friday night before recovering for an 83-74 win on Saturday. Sitting just 1½ games out of a playoff spot, the Cougars will have a pair of pivotal matches this Friday and Saturday against Manitoba (6-4) in Winnipeg. Both games will tip off at 8 p.m. and will be webcast live at www.canadawest.tv.

Men’s Hockey – The Cougars (4-12-2) lost twice to Manitoba over the weekend, being edged 3-2 by the Bisons on Friday and losing 4-1 on Saturday. The team hits the road for the first time in the second half of the conference schedule this weekend, as the Cougars travel to the West Coast for a pair of games against the UBC Thunderbirds.

Men’s Track & Field (CIS Ranking: No. 5) – The Cougars had their first competition of the second semester last Saturday, as the team travelled up to Saskatoon for a dual against the U of S. Chris Pickering had the highlight for the team, as he became the first athlete to hit a CIS standard this season thanks to his throw of 16.25 metres in the shot put. The Cougars have a weekend off before travelling to Edmonton for the Golden Bear Open on Jan. 20.

Women’s Track & Field (CIS Ranking: No. 10) – Merissa Margetts had first-place finishes in both the 60-metre dash (7.96 s) and the 60-metre hurdles (9.06 s) as the Cougars squared off against the U of S in a dual at Saskatoon last Saturday. Shalane Haselhan also placed first in the long jump (5.46 m) for the Cougars, who will have a week off to prepare for the Golden Bear Open in Edmonton (Jan. 20).

STAMPS MOURN PASSING OF BOB TORRANCE

2012-01-11T17:05:00.001-07:00

It is with deep sadness that the Calgary Stampeders announce the sudden passing of former quarterback Bob Torrance, who died in Newfoundland on Tuesday at the age of 43.

Torrance dressed for 27 games with the Stampeders in 1991, 1992 and 1995 and was a member of the Stampeders’ 1992 Grey Cup Championship team. He also spent a season with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and threw for 870 yards and three touchdowns in his CFL career.

“I was extremely saddened to learn of Bob's passing," said John Hufnagel, who coached Torrance with the Stamps and Dinos. "Bob came into the CFL after a fantastic university career and helped pave the way for Canadian quarterbacks at this level. My thoughts, and those of everyone at the Stamps, are with Bob's family."

Torrance was a graduate of Calgary’s William Aberhart High School and went on to play for the University of Calgary Dinos. Torrance enjoyed a great four-year career with the Dinos, passing for more than 7,000 yards and 51 touchdowns. His best season came in 1989 when he completed 152 of 282 pass attempts for 2,360 yards, 23 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He led the Dinos to the 1988 Vanier Cup and was named most valuable player in that season’s Central Bowl.

The Stamps selected Torrance in the third round (22nd overall) of the 1991 CFL Canadian Draft.

Torrance is survived by wife Lori Metcalfe, three children Emily, Sammy and Allie Torrance and his parents Bill and Sandy. A public memorial service is planned for Calgary at a future date.

(http://www.stampeders.com/)

WEDNESDAY SPORTS CAGE PODCAST

2012-01-11T17:00:00.000-07:00

We continued the hockey talk in the Sports Cage on Wednesday as Mitchell Blair and I were joined by the voice of the Winnipeg Jets Dennis Beyak. Also in this podcast is Ben Hebert, the Olympic gold medal-winning curler from the Kevin Martin team. Benny also gave us a big scoop, telling us he'll replace Steve Gould as lead on the Jeff Stoughton team which opens the Continental Cup of Curling Thursday in Langley. Gould is ill and can't make the event. You can listen to the podcast here:
SportsCage 1-11-2012 5;09;48 PM by ridervoice

T-BIRDS CLAIM WAGNER

2012-01-11T15:58:00.001-07:00

Kent, January 11, 2012 - Seattle Thunderbirds general manager Russ Farwell today announced the team has claimed center Dillon Wagner off waivers.

"We are happy to be able to add Dillon to fill our open 20-year-old spot," said Farwell. "He has earned respect in the league both for his work ethic and leadership and is a great addition for us at this time."

Wagner, a 20-year-old from Duffield, Alberta, was previously with the Portland Winterhawks. He appeared in 17 games with the Winterhawks this season and had seven points on three goals and four assists.
In 180 career WHL games with the Swift Current Broncos and Winterhawks, Wagner has 31 goals and 29 assists for 60 points with 193 penalty minutes.

Wagner and right wing Burke Gallimore and defenseman Cason Machacek are the three 20-year-olds on the T-Birds roster.

CHL WEEK 16 TOP 10

2012-01-11T15:25:00.001-07:00

1 Tri-City Americans (32-7-0-0)
2 London Knights (30-8-0-1)
3 Plymouth Whalers (28-9-2-1)
4 Quebec Remparts (29-8-3-2)
5 Saint John Sea Dogs (31-12-0-2)
6 Shawinigan Cataractes (29-10-2-2)
7 Kamloops Blazers (28-10-1-2)
8 Edmonton Oil Kings (27-10-1-4)
9 Kitchener Rangers (26-11-1-0)
10 Ottawa 67's (25-10-4-1)

Honourable Mention:
Moose Jaw Warriors (25-12-4-1)
Brampton Battalion (23-10-2-5)
Portland Winterhawks (26-12-2-1)

THREE PATS RANKED

2012-01-11T10:41:00.000-07:00

Regina, Saskatchewan – The NHL's Central Scouting Mid-Season rankings were released today and three members of the Regina Pats have cracked the list among North American skaters.

Chandler Stephenson is the 36th ranked skater in North America. The second year Pat forward is currently fourth on the team in scoring even though he has missed the last eight games due to a lower body injury.

Dominik Volek is the 95th ranked skater in North America. The WHL rookie is sixth on the Pats in scoring and is also second on the team in game winning goals with four.

Jack Rodewald wasn't among the players ranked in the preliminary rankings to begin the season, but has crept into the North American rankings at 208th.

The National Hockey League Entry Draft is set for June 22nd and 23rd, 2012 in Pittsburgh.

***

The Regina Pats would also like to announce that 17 year old defenceman, Landon Peel has been reassigned to the Swan Valley Stampeders of the MJHL and 18 year old defenceman, Nathan Zimbaluk has been reassigned to the Melfort Mustangs of the SJHL.

SJHL TRADE DEADLINE RECAP

2012-01-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

Courtesy Craig Stein of GX94 Yorkton:

The Melville Millionaires were as busy as any team in any league when it came to adding new faces on deadline day. The Millionaires brought in four new players, three of which were via trades. The Mils added some depth and experience up front, in 20-year-old forwards Connor Bradshaw (21-7-8-15) from the Melfort Mustangs, and Taylor Wasden (28-2-3-5) from the Kindersley Klippers. They sent the SJHL list rights to Graham Hood (Lethbridge, WHL) and future considerations to Melfort, and futures to Kindersley. They also acquired 19-year-old defenseman Landon Hall (3-13-16 last season) from Dauphin for futures. Hall has played only two games this season due to an injury near the start of the year. The biggest acquistion by the Millionaires wasn't a trade. They received Sean Aschim back from the WHL's Seattle Thunderbirds. Aschim had 9-goals and 18-points in 37 games between Moose Jaw and Seattle, and put up 51-points in 51-games in Melfort last season. He was part of a futures deal from a year ago, which sent Brayden Metz and Cody Hanson from Melville to Melfort.

In the Battlefords, arguably the top blue line in the league got even better, as the North Stars added a pair of 20-year-old defensemen. The made the first big move the day before the deadline, acquiring Mitch Berg (34-7-8-15) from Melfort. Zach MacLellan and Jake Daughtry went the other way. The Stars didn't stop there, as they added another overage defenseman, Lanigan, SK product Klay Kachur (35-3-5-8) from the BCHL's Westside Warriors. Berg (6'3") and Kachur (6'2") will make the Stars tougher to play against, and join a backend that already features Woody Klassen, Brody Luhning and Travis Sparrow. The Stars ended up getting MacLellan's rights back from Melfort, in exchange for 18-year-old defenseman Nathan Zimbaluk, who was re-assigned by the Regina Pats. MacLellan's whirlwind day continued when the Stars flipped him to Estevan shortly before the deadline.

Nipawin made the first move on January 10th, and it was a big one, as they landed 19-year-old forward Wheaton King (35-5-25-30) from Kindersley. The Hawks sent 18-year-old forward Alex Laird (27-4-7-11) to the Klippers. List players were also exchanged.

Other teams adding players included the Estevan Bruins, who along with MacLellan, acquired 20-year-old foward Trevor Tracy (41-13-18-31) from the Spruce Grove Saints (AJHL). They also shipped 18-year-old forward Dylan Schellenberg to Camrose of the AJHL. The Weyburn Red Wings added 18-year-old forward Kyle Oleniuk (13-1-3-4) from Flin Flon for goaltending prospect Austin Rediron. The Wings also claimed uncarded 18-year-old forward Logan Maddin (29-1-4-5), who previously played for Camrose of the AJHL.

The Melfort Mustangs continued their rebuild, sending Bradshaw to Melville and Berg to the North Stars. The only current roster player they added was 18-year-old forward Jake Daughtry (9-0-0-2) from the Stars. Kindersley's going the same route as Melfort, as the Klippers are now without a single 20-year-old, and their leading scorer in King. After moving their entire first line of Jordon Hoffman (Weyburn), Jesse Mysiorek (Flin Flon) and Taylor Duzan (Humboldt) prior to December 1st, they continued that mode on Tuesday, with the departures of King and Wasden.

Flin Flon didn't add any current roster players, while the La Ronge Ice Wolves, Humboldt Broncos, Notre Dame Hounds and Yorkton Terriers, all stayed quiet on deadline day.

TWO CFL TEAMS LOSE ASS'T COACHES

2012-01-11T06:30:00.001-07:00

HONOLULU — New Hawaii coach Norm Chow has added four more assistants to his staff.

They include offensive assistants Tommy Lee and Keith Uperesa and Chris Wiesehan. Daronte Jones will be a defensive assistant.

Lee most recently served as head coach at Montana-Western from 2001-07. Uperesa comes from Nicholls State, where he served as offensive line coach for the past two seasons. Wiesehan was receivers coach with the CFL's Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Jones recently completed his first season as defensive backs coach with the CFL's Montreal Alouettes.

http://www.dailyjournal.net/view/story/67532684d21346788438a2cc3e5cdfc5/FBC--Hawaii-Assistants/

ESKIMOS SIGNINGS

2012-01-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

(Edmonton) Eskimos General Manager Eric Tillman announced the signing of import linebacker Simoni Lawrence and import wide receiver/returner Derrick Townsel on Tuesday.

The 6-1 228 pound Lawrence played at the University of Minnesota, where he recorded 149 tackles his last two seasons. He later signed as a free agent with the Philadelphia Eagles, and, after being released, spent time with the Bears and Eagles on each team's practice roster.

"Simoni is an outstanding athlete, and we're eager to see him in training camp," said Tillman. "At the NFL Combine, back in February of 2010, he recorded a 40 inch vertical jump and a 4.58 forty yard dash, both of which are very impressive, especially for a linebacker. We feel Simoni's speed and athleticism should translate well to our larger CFL field."

The 5-9 175 pound Townsel had an outstanding career at Murray State, where he had 153 receptions for 1712 yards and five touchdowns. As a senior, he averaged 22.7 yards per kickoff return and 24.1 yards on nine punt returns. After completing his career with the Racers, the speedy Townsel signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the spring of 2010 and later with Houston, where he spent time on the Texans' practice and active roster.

"Derrick is an explosive little guy who addresses one of our team needs - big play potential," said Tillman. "In the NFL he was viewed as a return man, and I know he's excited to have a chance to utilize all of his talents in our league."

WEAL STAYS!

2012-01-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

Jordan Weal will, in all likelihood, finish his WHL career as a Regina Pat. The 19-year old forward from North Vancouver was NOT moved by Regina Pats GM Chad Lang at Tuesday's WHL trade deadline. Lang told reporters after the deadline passed that only one team made an offer for Weal, and it was not enough to pull the trigger. That means the team's leading scorer will finish this season as a Regina Pat with the possiblity of coming back next season as a 20-year old. The Pats currently sit 2nd in the WHL's East Division and visit the P.A. Raiders Wednesday night on 620 CKRM.

Lang will be on the Sports Cage WHL trade deadline special on 620 CKRM this afternoon along with Warriors GM Alan Millar, Blades broadcaster Les Lazurak and Warriors broadcaster James Gallo.
RP

TUESDAY SPORTS CAGE PODCAST

2012-01-10T16:55:00.001-07:00

It was a WHL Trade Deadline Special in the Sports Cage on Tuesday. I was joined in studio by Derek Meyers and Kelly Remple as we recapped the WHL trades at the deadline. Our guests included Pats GM Chad Lang and Warriors GM Alan Millar. You can listen to the show here:
SportsCage 1-10-2012 5;09;30 PM by ridervoice

T-BIRDS/WINTERHAWKS DEAL

2012-01-10T16:37:00.001-07:00

Seattle, January 10, 2012 - Seattle Thunderbirds general manager Russ Farwell today announced the team has traded left wing Marcel Noebels to the Portland Winterhawks for right wing Seth Swenson and first round picks in the 2012 and 2013 WHL Bantam Drafts.

"We just could not pass up the offer that was made," said Farwell. "We add a younger player and two high draft picks. Marcel has been a very good player for us and we wish him good luck going forward with his career."

Swenson, an 18-year-old right wing from Parker, Colorado, has appeared in 33 games this season for the Winterhawks and has one goal and six assists for seven points. Swenson is in his third year in the WHL and has played in 132 games and has five goals and 16 assists with 64 penalty minutes.

Noebels, from Tonisvorst, Germany, has appeared in 34 games for the T-Birds this season and has 10 goals and 14 assists for 24 points. The T-Birds selected Noebels in the first round, 10th overall, of the 2010 CHL Import Draft. Last season with the T-Birds Noebels had 56 points on 28 goals and 26 assists.

The T-Birds travel to Kamloops to take on the Blazers on Friday at Interior Savings Centre at 7:35pm. They return to ShoWare Center to take on the Portland Winterhawks at 7:05pm on Saturday.

TIGERS-SILVERTIPS DEAL

2012-01-10T16:02:00.000-07:00

The Medicine Hat Tigers announced this afternoon they've sent 18-year-old forward Reid Petryk to the Everett Silvertips in exchange for the rights to 17-year-old Miles Koules who is currently with the U.S. National Under-18 team based out of Ann Arbour, Michigan.

The US National Team Development Program is the same program that produced current Tigers standout Emerson Etem prior to his arrival in Medicine Hat.

Koules, 5’ 10”, 188 lbs. is a native of Los Angeles, CA and is the son of former Tigers forward Oren Koules.

The right-winger has thirteen points in thirty-two games this season with the U.S. Under-18 team on three goals and ten assists. Last season, playing between the U.S. National Team Development Program in the USHL and the U.S. Under-17 Program, Koules played a total of sixty eight games collecting seventeen goals and sixteen assists for three points while spending forty two minutes in the penalty box. He picked up eight points with four goals and four assists in six games in the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.

During the 2009-10 season, Koules also followed in Etem’s footsteps by attending Shattuck St. Mary’s for their U16 program. He played fifty-three games with twenty goals and thirty-eight assists totaling fifty-eight points with twenty-six penalty minutes.

PAIR OF GIANT DEALS

2012-01-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

The Vancouver Giants have dealt defenceman Eric Walker to the Swift Current Broncos for a 8th round pick in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft. An 18 year old from Castlegar, BC, Walker played 16 games with the Giants after leaving Northern Michigan University. He had 2 assists, 18 penalty minutes, and was even on the season.

The Giants also traded goaltender Brendan Jensen to the Portland Winterhawks for a 6th round pick in the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft. The 18 year old was 2-2-0-0 with 5.00 goals against average and a save percentage of .823 in 4 games this season with the Giants before being reassigned to the Spurce Grove Saints of the AJHL.

CONNOLLY'S RIGHTS DEALT

2012-01-10T15:21:00.001-07:00

Prince George, BC – The Prince George Cougars have traded Brett Connolly's rights to the Tri City Americans. In return, the Prince George Cougars receive a fifth round draft pick in 2013, a conditional first round draft pick in 2013 and a conditional second round draft pick in 2014.

"When Brett Connolly made the Tampa Bay Lightning in October, we felt that he would be there for the full season and wouldn't be coming back to us," said Prince George Cougars General Manager Dallas Thompson. "If Brett Connolly does come back to the Western Hockey League this season – We're happy with our return in this deal."

Connolly was selected sixth overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Connolly has played in 29 games with the Tampa Bay Lightning this season and has recorded four goals and eight points during his rookie season.

ICE-TIGERS TRADE

2012-01-10T15:11:00.002-07:00

CRANBROOK, BC -- Kootenay Ice GM Jeff Chynoweth announced the club has traded 18-year old forward Brendan Hurley to the Medicine Hat Tigers for a third round pick in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft.

“With all our veteran players and returning 16-year-olds from the Under 17 Tournament Brendan was concerned with the ice time he would be getting moving forward. Ideally we would have liked to move him for a roster player, but when that didn’t materialize the draft pick was our next best option. The third round pick in 2012 will replace the one we traded to Swift Current in the Cody Eakin deal last January. We would like to thank Brendan for this time here and wish him all the best in Medicine Hat,” added Chynoweth.

YET ANOTHER WARRIOR TRADE!

2012-01-10T13:24:00.001-07:00

Moose Jaw, Sask. - Director of Hockey Operations Alan Millar announced today the acquisition of a pair of draft picks, a 7th round in 2013 and a 5th round pick in 2014 from the Kelowna Rockets in exchange for forward Brett Lyon.

"Brett was a true warrior," said Director of Hockey Operations, Alan Millar. "Our organization would like to thank Brett for his time and contribution to our club and want to wish him all the best with the Rockets."

Brett Lyon is in his second season with the Warriors. He has played 41 games for the Warriors this season, recording 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points. Last season, Lyon joined the Warriors after playing 25 games with the Vancouver Giants.

ANOTHER WARRIOR TRADE

2012-01-10T12:08:00.001-07:00

Moose Jaw, Sask. - Director of Hockey Operations Alan Millar announced today the acquisition of James Henry from the Vancouver Giants. In exchange, the Warriors are sending a pair of draft picks, a 2nd in 2012 and a 3rd in 2014.

James Henry, a Winnipeg, MB native, has played his entire five-year career with the Giants. The Giants captain has played 281 career WHL games including 45 in the playoffs. The 5'10" forward has recorded 62 goals and 184 points in WHL career. Thus far this season, Henry is on a point-a-game pace with 41 points in 41 games.

"We are very pleased to add James to our hockey club," said Director of Hockey Operations Alan Millar. "He is a proven forward in our league, who provides tremendous character and leadership to our group."

GOING FOR IT?

2012-01-10T09:41:00.001-07:00

Regina, Saskatchewan – The Regina Pats are proud to announce the acquisition of defenceman Martin Marincin as well as a 4th and 7th round pick in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft and a 4th in the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft from the Prince George Cougars in exchange for defenceman Ricard Blidstrand, a 1st and 2nd round pick in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft and a 5th in the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft.

The 6'4" 187 pound native of Kosice, Slovakia is a 2nd round pick, 46th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2010 NHL Draft. Martin was selected by the Prince George Cougars 1st overall in the 2010 CHL Import Draft and has played for Slovakia at the past two World Junior Hockey Championships. In 2010-11 Marincin's 56 points was 8th among WHL defencemen in scoring.

Regina Pats General Manager Chad Lang, "Martin is a big, mobile defenceman with extensive experience on the elite level that will strengthen our back end and our team overall. He will also add another element to our power play and penalty kill."

Marincin will join the Pats in time for tomorrow's game in Prince Albert against the Raiders.