HOCKEY WEEKLY JULY 20, 2011 Vol

HOCKEY WEEKLY JULY 20, 2011 Vol. 37, Issue 24 $2.00 HW TRYOUTS INSIDE! 10 PAGES, 200+ SKATES! www.hockeyweekly.com YOUR #1 AMATEUR HOCKEY CONNECTION

No turning back Hockey Weekly photos by John Castine Above, from left, MAHA Coach-In-Chief Jack Witt, MAHA Attorney Steve Stapleton, Parliamentarian Maurice Henderson and MAHA Executive Secretary Kerin Wear tally the votes for the proposal that made the ADM principles mandatory at the 8 and Under levels in Michigan. At right, MAHA Wes Danielson Award winner Tyler Anderson is presented the award by MAHA Director-at-Large Larry Johnson. HW Editor Paul Harris’ stories and more coverage of the MAHA Summer Meetings are on Pages 3, 5, 8 and 25. Red Wings in training At right is action from the Red Wings prospects camp, which was held July 7-14 in Traverse City. left to right, in front of the net during a no-defense drill on goalie Evan Mosher are Mitchell Callahan (65), Brooks Macek (50), Sebastien Piche (54) and Jake Chelios (77). HW Editor Paul Harris’ column Is on Page 4.

Hockey Weekly photos by John Castine

BenefitBenefit forfor injuredinjured coachcoach -- SeSeee HoHockeyckey UUnitniteedd,, PPageage 77 2011 MAHA SUMMER MEETINGS HOCKEY WEEKLY JULY 20, 2011 PAGE 3 ADM 8U proposal passage ripples across Mich., MAHA By Paul Harris Hockey Weekly Editor Repercussions were already being felt only a few days after the long talked-about and long-debated American Development Model proposal was passed at the Michigan Amateur Hockey Association’s 50th Anniversary Summer Meetings, held at the Grand Traverse Resort July 7-10. The proposal, which makes the ADM principals mandatory at 8 and Under levels in Michigan, got three more than the neces- sary two-thirds of the MAHA directors’ votes (39-16) on July 10 in a roll-call vote, after being amended several times. The most contentious issue of the pro- posal is that it mandates almost exclusive half-ice and cross-ice play for Mites (7- and 8-year-olds). The debate has split MAHA – the District 4 Council ran ads against the proposal in Hockey Weekly – and had sparked a threatened movement from MAHA Hockey Weekly photos by John Castine to another governing body by many if the From left, Wyandotte Warriors Hockey Association President Lee Shifflett gives his opinion on the ADM principles proposal. Standing to ADM proposal passed and families didn’t his right are District 3 Director Brian Garves and Novi Youth Hockey Association President Bob DeSpirit. have the choice to allow their Mites to play National champion coach Joe Smaza discusses the pros and cons of ADM on Page 25 full-ice hockey. District 4 Council Chair Rick Rogow had year) teams. But the 2004 teams were wait- But just after the vote in Acme, which is no comment after the vote. But the next ing to see what MAHA did before.” near Traverse City, USA Hockey ADM day, an organization called Hockey When everything shakes out, he says he Regional Manager Bob Mancini was obvi- Michigan had its website – www.hock- thinks he’ll have more than 20 teams. ously happy the proposal was passed. eymichigan.org – up and run- Kloock said he’s also getting “Now we can take up the challenge of pro- ning. interest from Mite B coaches. viding the best program for the kids,” he Hockey Michigan is the orga- “I don’t have any comment,” said nization that has been put MAHA’s President George Kloock disagrees with that, at least where together by longtime Trenton Atkinson said. “It’s been pretty 8-year-olds are concerned. coach Keith Kloock, who has quiet since Sunday.” A longtime member of the Trenton been against limiting 7- and 8- But there was also more strife Hockey Association, Kloock actually start- year-olds to cross- and half-ice from within MAHA. ed District 2’s Michigan Half-Ice League, hockey. Hockey Michigan is a In a letter to the editor to which features three-on-three half-ice governing body that is an alter- Hockey Weekly (see Page 5 for games for Mini-Mites (6 & Under) and native to MAHA. Instead of the full letter), Dale Buss, St. younger. He started the league before USA being an affiliate of USA Hockey Clair Shores Hockey Hockey originally announced the ADM and – which MAHA is – Hockey Association coach, Travel rep was formerly a member of the MAHA ADM Michigan’s national governing and ice convener, expressed out- committee. body is the Amateur Athletic Keith Kloock rage at the District 3 Directors He resigned during MAHA’s Annual Union (AAU). who voted for the proposal after Winter Meetings in Southgate last winter “I’ve got quite a lot of people expressing assuring the district’s association presi- because of differences over the original pro- MAHA President George Atkinson knows interest and wanting information,” Kloock dents – who were against it by a wide mar- that people have a lot of questions about said. “I know where I stand with 2003 (birth gin – they would vote against it. See MAHA, Page 8 the proposal that was passed. Speaker doesn’t pull any punches about parents, coaches By Paul Harris entertained by her child’s participation in Hockey Weekly Editor hockey. With his British accent, knack for saying “I ask you, exactly who are those rules what’s on his mind and razor-sharp tongue, for?” he asked at the MAHA meetings. “I bet Dr. Steve Norris might remind many of tele- a great majority of them have nothing to do vision chef Gordon Ramsay. with children.” But Dr. Norris isn’t concerned about He also pointed out that many great ath- recipes or fixing failing restaurants, but letes, before they were teenagers, were main- with the age-appropriate development of ly trained by either creating their own space young athletes. and regimen – Tennis legend Bjorn Borg hit- Dr. Norris, who is a physiologist with ting thousands of balls off his garage every the Canadian Olympic Program, was the day – or just playing with their friends where keynote speaker during Saturday’s general all of the kids gather – kids in African coun- meeting at the Michigan Amateur Hockey tries who develop incredible skills by just Association Summer Meetings, which were playing soccer in a field every day, some- held at Grand Traverse Resort July 7-10. times with an improvised ball, urban youths And while many have been convinced in the United States who play basketball on that the American Development Model a court every day and Canadian kids playing principles is the best way to develop hock- street hockey. ey players, Dr. Norris’ presentation is defi- “Adults need to get a life. Stopping chil- nitely the most compelling argument for dren from having fun,” Dr. Norris said. “It’s the ADM. pathetic.” The basics of the ADM is the scientific He also spoke during the ADM committee data that there are certain age windows that meeting later in the day. youngsters best learn and develop the vari- ous athletic abilities. Hockey Weekly Photo by John Castine Briefly And with the vote on the ADM 8U propos- Dr. Steve Norris during his presentation at the MAHA General Meeting makes his pitch in Former District 3 Council Chair Jim al coming the next day, that age group was favor of the ADM half-ice mandates for 8 and under players. Cosgrove was elected MAHA Executive Vice the focus of his presentation. But he also President to fill the year left on Sal touched on all levels of youth development. athletic learning has to be while they’re He asked why she didn’t like that system for Giacalone’s term after he resigned recently. “Every kid coming though a youth sys- having fun and continually moving … her child and her answer was that it was bor- Cosgrovedefeated former Immediate Past tem ought to be able to say two things,” Dr. without the rules of traditional games. ing for her and she wasn’t entertained. President Mickey Jesue, MAHA Disabled Norris said. “1) I had a great time and 2) I He told a story about talking to a mother When Dr. Norris asked but what about your Director Carol Schwanger and District 7 learned a lot.” who didn’t like the half- and cross-ice child, her response was she was the one Council Chair Mike Corso in an election And for 8 and Under athletes, much of that games and stations of the ADM principles. paying the bills, so she deserved to be that took two ballots. 2011 MAHA SUMMER MEETINGS HOCKEY WEEKLY JULY 20, 2011 PAGE 5

Ralph Bammert and Judy Niemi present the 35-year service Bob Yohe (left) receives MAHA's prestigious Donna Piper presents the Earl Piper Coach of the Year Award to award to Dave Wiitanen (middle). Kellogg Award from Ray Kraemer. Glenn Patrick (left) along with Gordon Bowman.

2011 MAHA AWARDS Spina bifida hasn’t slowed Danielson winner

WES DANIELSON AWARD By Paul Harris Dan recalled that even when his brothers Tyler Anderson Hockey Weekly Editor were playing soccer in the front yard, Tyler Tyler Anderson has participated in sports would wind up being the goalie in his KELLOGG AWARD for his entire life. wheelchair. Bob Yohe In addition to playing hockey, basketball Always a Red Wings' and Grand Rapids and soccer, the 20-year-old Grand Rapids Griffins' fan, Tyler started playing Sled resident and student at Grand Rapids Hockey when he was 11. EARL PIPER AWARD Community College also skis, plays ten- “When I had the opportunity to play, I fig- (COACH OF THE YEAR) nis, kayaks, snowmobiles and cycles. ured I might as well give it a shot,” he said. Glenn Patrick It all seems pretty normal until you learn Jodie saw an immediate difference in him that Anderson was born with Spina Bifida after he hit the ice. LOWELL MCCOY AWARD and has been in a wheelchair all of his life. “From the first time he tried Sled Hockey, (REFEREE OF THE YEAR) Anderson is the Michigan Amateur Hockey his personality changed when he put that Association's 2011 Wes Danielson Award helmet on,” she said, adding that he became J.P. Parmentier winner. more confident. The award is presented annually to some- Tyler says he does just about everything. THIRTY-FIVE-YEAR AWARD one in the state who, "overcomes a major “Pretty much anything I think I can do Dave Wiitanen handicap or diversity and continues to par- and even if I think I can't do it, I give it a ticipate in – or make a major contribution try,” he said. THIRTY-YEAR AWARD to – the game of ice hockey." Hockey Weekly photos by John Castine So clearly, there's no feeling sorry for “My parents just wanted to raise me like himself. Willie Floyd Tyler Anderson with his parents, Dan and my brothers (who are now 22 and 16) ,” said Jodie Anderson. But people still sometimes make it obvi- Gerald Ludden Anderson, who is also a member of the U.S. ous that they feel sorry for him when they Sled Hockey Junior Development Team. their son to be independent. meet him. TWENTY-FIVE-YEAR AWARD “They didn't want me to feel any different. I “We tried to make him as self sufficient as “When people feel bad for me, I'm like, Mike Cruickshank had to work at it but I was always able to do possible,” Tyler's father Dan said. “He 'You don't need to feel bad for me because I Tim McIntosh everything myself, just like other kids.” always played when his brothers and the can do everything. And if I can't, I'll figure it Dan and Jodie Anderson always wanted other kids played sports.” out.' ” Tyler said. “It bothers me if I can't.” JOHN VARGO AWARD LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (FIFTEEN-YEAR AWARD) Mickey Jesue Michael Fornes (Referee) MAHA reps went against constituents’ wishes

LARRY CAIN AWARD I have been to many meetings regarding do not know what is best for their kids. involved in the process. I thought our rep- matters involving hockey. Devoted and interested parents are what resentatives were supposed to represent our (TEN-YEAR AWARD) This was my second MAHA summer meet- makes youth hockey possible. They told us interests, not unilaterally decide what was Jim Boloven ing; however, this meeting was especially to watch out for the parents, but obviously best for us. Rob Boone disappointing for several reasons. we should have been watching out for our In the end, had our council members voted Joe Newood First, we had a District 3 meeting months representatives. as promised the proposal would not have Bill Peterson prior to the MAHA meeting regarding our The irony of the matter is that while passed. Those who voted against the will of position on the Mite ADM Proposal. coaching Mite and Midget hockey this the very body they are supposed to repre- During that meeting the presidents of the year, I don’t recall seeing any of those who sent should step down from their posi- CHARLIE AUTORE AWARD various associations of District 3 strongly were speaking out in support of the ADM tions. (FIVE-YEAR AWARD) advised their District Council that they were Mite proposal coaching a Mite team. Dale Buss James Cosgrove against the proposal. I believe the vote of People are making decisions as to what is St. Clair Shores Hockey Association David Dupre those presidents in attendance was 10 to 1 best for others without actively being Coach, Travel Rep & Ice Convener Ron Hayes against the proposal. Larry Marshall At that time the Council stated that it would vote consistent with the desire or the Setting record straight on proposal Rick Rogow majority of the constituents and vote Cathy Starrett against the ADM proposal. After reading District’s 4 article (adver- son is a transition year phasing out 8U full Following that district meeting and prior tisement - see note at bottom) on limiting ice hockey with the 2012-13 season. I do DISTINGUISHED to the MAHA Summer Meeting an e-mail Mites to Cross- or Half- Ice, I find the arti- not have a problem of someone expressing ACHIEVEMENT went out again requesting our position. The cle full of untruths. their disagreement with the rule. I do have a Carol Schwanger constituents of District 3 again voted to First and foremost the rule is NOT AN problem when untruths are used to support reject the Mite ADM. ADM PROPOSAL. There is nothing in the one’s opinion. It is unfathomable to me that four District rule proposal that mentions ADM or man- DON’T READ INTO THE RULE PROPOS- SPECIAL RECOGNITION 3 representatives and our USA Hockey rep- dates the use ADM guidelines. The rule sim- ALS, READ THEM AS THEY ARE IN Bob Mancini resentative then went on to vote for the ply states that 8U Mites must skate on a BLACK AND WHITE! ADM proposal at the meeting, despite the limited ice surface. If Associations do not Gordon Bowman For photos of all award winners, almost unanimous rejection by the District want to participate in ADM principles, they Vice President of Coaches go to www.hockeyweekly.com 3 associations. can do their own means for their 8U kids. Author of rule proposal 9-11 and Hockey Weekly's Another disappointing aspect of the The rule just simply states that the ice sur- EDITOR’S NOTE: Mr. Bowman’s Facebook Page. weekend were statements made by MAHA face is limited. response is to anad run in Hockey Weekly representatives that, in summation, parents Also, the rule states that the 2011-12 sea- by the MAHA District 4 Council. 2011 MAHA SUMMER MEETINGS HOCKEY WEEKLY JULY 20, 2011 PAGE 8 Proposal passage has potential consequences for MAHA MAHA, from Page 3 posal that came out of the committee. One of the basic principles of the ADM is that small-area games – particularly at the younger ages – improves the development of skating and puck handling skills and develops hockey sense better than full-ice games because players have to make deci- sions quicker in closer quarters. Kloock says that among first-year Squirts (9- and 10-year-olds), those who played half-ice as 8-year-olds aren’t as fast as 8- year-olds who played full ice. But the proposal that did pass has a full- ice component, otherwise it might not have passed. A compromise proposal allowed for full ice beginning with the 2012-13 sea- son, but only after Dec. 20, each season for 8-year-old Mites. Above, District 4 Director Kim Gearns speaks against the proposal. Right, For the upcoming 2011-12 season, 8- former NHL player and Red Wing Dallas Drake – a member of the MAHA year-olds who ADM Committee – made an impassioned case for passing it. Hockey Weekly photos by John Castine played full-ice as 7-year-olds this Atkinson said. ing the following day, former NHL player that the ADM 8U principles would only past season will During the discussion of the proposal and Red Wing Dallas Drake – now a Pee Wee gain acceptance with time. But they don’t be allowed to before the vote in the general meeting on AA and Bantam A coach with the Grand think families should be forced into it and play full ice for July 9, Novi Youth Hockey Association Traverse Hockey Association and a member they wonder what’s the rush to make it the entire 2011- President Bob DeSpirit said the proposal is of the MAHA ADM Committee – gave an mandatory at 8U now? 12 season. unmanageable. impassioned speech in support of the pro- Kloock intimated that things may have The proposal “From an administrative standpoint, I posal. worked out better for MAHA if the proposal was amended sev- feel it will bring chaos to our program,” he At one point he said, “We’re talking had not passed. eral times even said. about 8-year-old kids! Are you guys out of “I didn’t really want to do the AAU stuff, ” after that replaced DeSpirit also added that he thought the your mind?” he said. “But they played right into my the previous NYHA would suffer catastrophic member- He also added that an NHL game is actual- hands.” Proposal 9.1. ship losses from Hockey Michigan if the ly a series of small-area games. Another opponent of the proposal was Atkinson said that proposal passed. MAHA also elicited support for the pro- Livonia Hockey Association President Wyandotte Warriors Hockey Association posal from Red Wing stars Henrik ADM Regional MAHA would Mark Paulus. President Lee Shifflett said it was too soon Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk. “This rule has evolved in many different Manager Bob Mancini release a synopsis of the final rule for the proposal to pass. Even before the proposal passed, the ways and it’s going to take time to see the proposal that passed, a time line and the “This one-size-fits-all rule has not given ADM’s 8U cross-ice and half-ice principles effect it will have on associations overall,” answers to the questions that have been most us enough time to adjust to the new coach- had been embraced by many associations he said. frequently asked by July 15 or 16. ing standards,” he said. across MAHA. Many opponents of the pro- Ten other new rules proposals were “We know people have questions,” During discussions in the general meet- posal, in fact, agree with them and think passed during the Summer Meetings.

1stt!t!!! Jullyy 21sts - 3

OOMOOMMOTOTITIOIONONSNS!S! N! FUNFUUNN PROPRRO CTIO L TOTO WAWA LL ININVEVENENTOTORORY!Y! SELE HUGE HOCKEY WEEKLY SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 Vol. 37, Issue 27 HW www.hockeyweekly.com MITE COACHES MULL OPTIONS – PAGE 8 YOUR #1 AMATEUR HOCKEY CONNECTION ‘IT’S ALWAYS ABOUT THE KIDS’

EVERY HOCKEY PLAYER’S DREAM: Bob Hockey Weekly photo by John Castine Essensa, goaltending coach of the Stanley Cup-Champion Boston MNHL continues scholarships: Nine of the 10 2011 MNHL Scholarship winners pose with Bruins, brought the Stanley Cup to the Detroit Skate Club, where he Gale M. Cronk, MNHL chairman and treasurer, at the scholarship dinner Aug. 14 in Fenton. Cronk is seated and coaches the Midget A USA Eagles. Above the Squirt AA USA Eagles surrounded by (left to right kneeling) Will Dawson and Dalton Hammond and standing (left to right) Jonathan pose with the Cup with Essensa in the background. Bruins Tim Jepson, Chris Stansik, Alex Jakubic, Andrew Lay, Michael Crowder, Aaron Jakubic and Jonathan Castine. Not pic- Thomas and Steven Kampfer also treated Michiganians to other Cup tured is John Kennedy Jr. See story and more photos on Page 3. visits. More pictures are on Page 5. ON YOUR MARK The Red Wings have already begun their informal practices in preparation for training camp and the 2011-12 NHL season. During the first skate, on Aug. 29 at City Sports Arena, Danny Cleary (left to right), Tomas Holmstrom, Doug Janik and Drew Miller are lined up for a drill. HW Editor Paul Harris’ Red Wings column is on HE’S NO. 1: The Washington Capitals’ Page 4. Alexander Ovechkin is Hockey Weekly’s Top Hockey Weekly NHL Player. See HW Editor Paul Harris' story photo by John on Page 5 for the rest of the Top 10. Castine IlitchIlitch CharitiesCharities golfgolf outingouting raisesraises $250,$250,000+000+ forfor lloocalcal grgrooupsups -- PP.. 99 PAGE 8 HOCKEY WEEKLY SEPTEMBER 7, 2011 In ADM debate, Mite teams are selecting different options By Paul Harris support of the Phantoms will come from himself, his assis- Hockey Weekly Editor Mite coach Ron tant coaches and the other families (Wantuck's son plays With Mite players and coaches now being allowed to par- Wantuck will have on the team). ticipate in leagues outside of the Michigan Amateur “The kids are going to have the best of all worlds,” Hockey Association, Mite teams who want to play full-ice his team play Wantuck said. “My practices are always going to be on the hockey are taking various approaches to the options avail- both cross- and ADM scale, MAHA didn't have to mandate that.” able to them. full-ice. “The kids He went to say that he believes in the ADM principles of Because of the passage of the American Development are going to have station and small-area drills, etc., but also thinks that Program Proposal – which eliminated most full-ice hockey players and parents should have the choice of playing full- at the Mite (8 & Under) and below levels – at the MAHA the best of all ice hockey. Summer Meetings in early July at Grand Traverse Resort, worlds,” he says. Wantuck added the decision to play in both MAHA and Mite teams that want to play full-ice have joined the Michigan Hockey, which Wantuck says will put players on Amateur Athletic Union-affiliated organization Hockey the ice two-three times per week, was driven by the parents. Michigan. On the other hand, the Taylor Wings are one of the teams At press time, 15 Michigan Mite teams (12 in Mite That means that a team can remain in MAHA and partici- only playing in Hockey Michigan. Minor Travel and three in Mite B) were listed on www.hock- pate there, but also can call themselves another name, put “My son is on the team and, basically, it (playing both eyhichigan.org as participating in the organization for the on different uniforms and participate with an outside orga- MAHA and Hockey Michigan), would be a lot. We decided 2011-12 season. Two teams from Indianapolis and one nization, like Hockey Michigan. to go the full-ice option,” said Taylor Wings coach Kevin from Pittsburgh were also listed. Ron Wantuck's 2004 Mite team is doing just that. Paden. “It would be a lot. I would probably say you'll be at Also, according to Hockey Michigan-founder Keith The team, which plays out of Canton's Arctic Edge and the rink at least four-to-five times a week for both.” Kloock, a separate AAU league of eight teams is also in has been traditionally known as the Canton Wings, will That team is also playing in Mite Minor Travel, as are existence in the western Detroit-area suburbs. continue to play in MAHA and the cross-ice program with- the Michigan Hornets, who are from Troy. While the Michigan teams had to disassociate them- in the Canton Victory Hockey Association. They seem to have found a compromise, according to selves from their associations, which are still under But those same players will also form the Phantoms, coach Brian Howard. MAHA's umbrella, MAHA President George Atkinson said which will have no affiliation whatsoever to the CVHA or He says his players will play in a partial MAHA House last month that individual players and coaches could com- MAHA. The Phantoms will play full-ice in Hockey cross-ice program along with full ice in Hockey Michigan. pete in both MAHA and outside leagues as long as it wasn't Michigan (Mite Minor Travel) and, according to Wantuck, “Kind of the best of both worlds to accommodate all par- the same team. all the costs (registration, ice-time, uniforms, etc.) and ties, ” Howard said. Grinding away

Hockey Weekly photos by Rena Laverty Two-thirds of the Wings’ Grind Line – Kris Draper, left and above, and Kirk Maltby, above right – give young players a few pointers during the annual Kris Draper Hockey School at the Troy Sports Center and Core Sports Fitness Aug. 22-25. Also at the clinic was the third Grind Line member, Darren McCarty. A discussion of Talent versus Skill here is a huge difference between tal- to achieve the same level of driveway. Do an extra stick handling session (or two). Do ent and skill. Talent is something that COACH skill mastery as those play- that extra set of sprints at the end of your workout. Push Tis natural. Saying that a player is tal- ers. Sometimes it seems as yourself to a whole new level. ented implies that they just threw skates on KIM’S though those naturally talent- Don’t just be willing to do the work. Get excited about one day and were a natural out there. ed players get all the breaks. doing it. Know that it will give you a serious advantage There are certainly players out there with CORNER But natural talent only gets once the season starts. Because hard work leads to skill, a lot of natural talent. And it sure is helpful you so far. It may give you a which trumps talent every time. if you have it. But if you want to play at the By Kim McCullough head start, but it won’t get you elite levels of hockey, being naturally tal- MSc, YCS over the finish line. Never RESOURCE BOX ented is not essential. Skill, on the other give up on your goals and With the new season just around the corner weeks away, hand, is absolutely critical. dreams because you don’t have “talent”. it’s time to get in game shape - fast. Skill is something you have to acquire through hours, There are a lot of naturally-talented players who don’t put You can use the same body-weight workout circuits that days, and years of training, practicing and learning. It’s in the time and effort to become elite players and plateau my athletes and I use in the park to get in great hockey hard work spending hours upon hours working on your very early on. And there are many players who start out as shape before the season. To help you get fast, strong and shot, practicing your stick handling, or working out in the mediocre but put in the time and effort needed to excel and fit enough to dominate during training camp, you can get gym. leapfrog over those with natural talent but no drive. your copy at http://www.totalfemalehockey.com/game- The truth is that to be really, really good takes more time Greatness comes from skill cultivated through hard work, shape.shtml. and effort than most players are willing to commit.Most not talent. Kim McCullough, MSc, YCS, is an expert in the devel- players simply aren’t driven or dedicated enough to do the Forget about talent and focus on skill. Grab hold of ded- opment of aspiring female hockey players. She is a former work that is necessary to develop the skills needed to suc- ication and drive instead. Push yourself every single day to NCAA Division I captain at Dartmouth and played in the ceed. be better than you were the day before.Outwork everyone. National Women’s Hockey League for six years. She is cur- It’s hard not to get frustrated that you don’t have the same Spend these last few weeks of the summer getting better. rently the Girls Hockey Director at the PEAC School for natural talent as other players. It’s even more frustrating to Instead of sitting back and relaxing your way into the sea- Elite Athletes in Toronto and is the Director and Founder of know that you have to put in twice as much time (or more) son, crank up the intensity. Take those extra shots in the Total Female Hockey. HOCKEY WEEKLY SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 Vol. 37, Issue 28 $2.00 HW CRASH STUNS HOCKEY WORLD – PAGE 5 www.hockeyweekly.com YOUR #1 AMATEUR HOCKEY CONNECTION

Falcons are flying

Hockey Weekly photo by John Castine Photo by John Elftmann The Port Huron Fighting Falcons’ Kody Polin (8) goes after a loose puck against Brian Christie of the Topeka GOOD START: The Motor City Chiefs opened the Great Lakes RoadRunners in the North American Hockey League Showcase in Blaine, MN, Sept. 15. The Falcons beat Topeka Junior Hockey League season with a pair of wins. Above are Chiefs John 2-1 in a shootout, their second win in two days for a 2-0 start to the 2011-12 season. Read about more NAHL Hultgren and Tim Muhsman in a pre-game skate. For more on the Chiefs North Division openers on Page 8. and other GLJHL action, see Page 22.

Hockey Weekly photo by John Castine

LIKE IT NEVER ENDED: The Motor City Cup Hockey Weeklly Photo by John Castine Tournament kicked off the thrills and spills of the 2011-12 AAA Hockey Season with a Midget Major and Midget Minor Tournament in ADM SCHEDULING BEGINS: The new MAHA mandated American Developmental Model Metro Detroit. Above Jaleel Rosemond of the Oakland Grizzlies goes program got underway Sept. 10 in District 2 with “an exchange meeting” to schedule half-ice games between airborne for a loose puck against HoneyBaked's Logan Gatza. D2’s Hockey Associations with Mini-Mite and Mite teams, known as units. Around the Mite table at the meeting HoneyBaked won the U-16 Midget Minor game, 4-0. For more photos at the DISC Arena in Dearborn are clockwise from front left Kathy Benko (representing Grosse Ile Hockey and a story by AAA reporter Chuck Klonke and for Hockey Weekly's Association), Jeff Steffin (Grosse Ile), Jason Greig (Dearborn), Cindy Monzon (Allen Park), Dave Monzon (Allen first AAA Rankings of the season see Page 9. Park) and Tony Palumbo (Trenton). For a story and more photos see Page 3. BOXBOX LACROSSELACROSSE COMINGCOMING TOTO OORRCCHARDHARD LLAAKKEE SSTT.. MMAARRY’SY’S -- PP.. 22 SEPTEMBER 21, 2011 HOCKEY WEEKLY PAGE 3 Downriver, D-2 groups make best with remaining Mites By Paul Harris associations for the last few seasons. Hockey Weekly Editor The “craziness” Shifflett referred to are Wyandotte Warriors Hockey Association the administrative challenges presented to President Lee Shifflett was one of the most associations by the rule change. vocal opponents of the American He added there are also the challenges of Development Program proposal, which lost players and the lost revenue that has outlaws full-ice hockey for most players 8 disappeared with them. and under, before it was passed at the “What I thought would happen and what I Michigan Amateur Hockey Association warned them of at the MAHA meeting has Annual Summer Meetings in early July. happened,” Shifflett said. “Teams are erod- So it now seems ironic that Shifflett finds ing and people are taking their kids else- himself overseeing the scheduling of many where” of Downriver and District 2's Mite and Seven Downriver or District 2, 2003 and Mini-Mite half-ice games, jamborees and 2004 teams have left MAHA to join Hockey exchanges for the 2011-12 season. Michigan, which is backed by the Amateur But he doesn't see the turn of events as a Athletic Union, so their Mites can play big deal. full-ice hockey, according to www.hock- “I've been president of our association eymichigan.org. for seven years and there's a lot of new pres- Shifflett said the Wyandotte Warriors' idents, at least seven in District 2,” Hockey Association has lost 13 Mite play- Shifflett said. “And with all the craziness ers from the spring. He said that translates going on, I figured they could do something to a loss for the association of $11,185 to get their organizations in trouble and I (registration fees, fundraising, ice bills and Hockey Weekly photos by John Castine didn't want to see that.” monthly association fees). District 2 Hockey Association reps use laptop computers, cell phones, calendars and The participating associations are: Allen “You don't like seeing your business lose notebooks during their scheduling of cross and/or half ice exchanges between their Park, Dearborn, Wyandotte, Trenton, $11,000,” Shifflett said. “You don't like to Mini-Mite players for the upcoming season. Woodhaven, Monroe and Wayne. see your business lose that kind of money.” Shifflett had already been involved with He added that District 2 has shrunk from “The people are voting with their feet as I while having these exchanges.” the scheduling of the Mini-Mite Half-Ice 16 full-ice Mite teams in the spring to thought they would, ” Shifflett added. The process began with nine Mini Mite Hockey League, which has operated as a co- three-and-a-half half-ice teams and seven He was assisted in his leadership of the teams, which were broken up into 20 seven- operative venture by several Downriver full-ice squads. Mites who remained by MAHA Immediate player units with the players divided among Past President Mickey Jesue. Shifflett and the units by talent. Jesue conducted the "District 2 Exchange" Six units of half-ice Mites (2004) remain scheduling meeting at the Dearborn Ice after the losses. Skating Center (DISC) on Saturday, Sept. Second-year Mites (2003) are allowed to 10. play full-ice this season and they will play “Lee Shifflett and I happened to have a in the Little Caesars Amateur Hockey conversation and I offered to help facilitate League. a meeting, as well as schedule association "I would like to thank Lee for taking the exchanges with the teams,” Jesue wrote in initiative to get the associations together, an e-mail. “Lee and I were very pleased to share ideas and procedures, and move in a see everyone come together, exchange direction that everyone could live with," ideas and procedures they would abide by Jesue added.

Wyandotte Hockey Association President Lee Schifflet (left) and MAHA Executive Board Adray 2011/2012 Hockey Season Information Past President Mickey Jesue discuss the meeting they organized and ran for the District 2 Exchange scheduling between half-ice Mini-Mite and Mite Programs. can be found on the web site. www.adrayhockey.org 25 Mite teams now members ADRAY OFFICERS of two AAU organizations PRESIDENT By Paul Harris “Originally, I thought we'd get 10 or 12 Jeff Spedowski Hockey Weekly Editor (for AAU) and I was looking for basically 231-796-0728 (h) 231-629-0435 (c) A total of 25 Mite teams had left the USA 25 or more in Year Two,” said Kloock, who Hockey-backed Michigan Amateur Hockey said he has no problem with Full Potential E-Mail: [email protected] Association for two Amateur Athletic Hockey Academy going it on its own with Union-supported organizations as of press AAU. “. . . Now we'll see how good a job we TREASURER GIRLS HOUSE time. do and if we get more in year two.” Joe Spedowski VICE PRESIDENT The teams have chosen to play full-ice He added the Hockey Michigan Travel and 231-796-2565 Dina Howe hockey, which was outlawed for most of Mite B teams were in the process of doing Michigan's Mite players (8 and under) by their scheduling. E-mail: [email protected] 989-429-2653 (c) 989-435-7080 (w) the American Development Model propos- In addition the Hockey Michigan site had DATABASE SPECIALIST E-mail: [email protected] al, which was passed at the MAHA Annual two Mite Major (2003) Travel teams listed Summer Meetings in early July. from Indiana, the Indiana Jr. Ice of Carmel VICE PRESIDENT METRO VICE PRESIDENT The AAU organizations are Hockey and the Midwest Express (Indianapolis) Steve Miller Bobby Mitchell Michigan (www.young-guns-hockey.com) with a note to say "more out of state AAU 616-250-1458 248-302-0913 and the Full Potential Hockey Academy teams are welcome." [email protected] (http://www.eteamz.com/fullpotential- And the site also noted Canadian teams E-Mail: [email protected] hockeyacademy/). can participate. GREATER EAST GREATER WEST According to Hockey Michigan founder "Teams may join AAU throughout the sea- VICE PRESIDENT Keith Kloock, 17 teams are a part of his son in order to compete within Mite Full- VICE PRESIDENT organization. The other eight teams are Ice tournaments. Teams may be from Brandon Spedowski Kevin Wood with the Livonia-based Full Potential Michigan or other States, as well as Canada 989-486-1511 (h) 231-250-7031 (c) 616-560-6503 Hockey Academy. That organization was (yes Canadians may join AAU)," the site E-mail: E-Mail: founded by Dennis Desantis and all of its noted. "Travel tournament teams may be teams are from Livonia. Desantis could not Select (All-Star) teams, compiled from [email protected] [email protected] be reached for comment. existing Cross-Ice programs." HOCKEY WEEKLY NOVEMBER 23, 2011 Vol. 38, Issue 5 $2.00 HW AAU HOCKEY LOOKING TO GROW – P. 8 www.hockeyweekly.com YOUR #1 AMATEUR HOCKEY CONNECTION 2011-12 HIGH SCHOOL PREVIEW

Last season’s three Boys state champs – from left, DI Novi, D2 Wyandotte and D3 Grand Rapids Catholic Central – must deal with how to defend their crowns. Meanwhile, last season’s Girls state champ, Grosse Pointe South, near left, will be challenged by four brand new head coaches in the MMGHSHL. Get ready – it’s Prep Season! See Pages 3 and 5. AAA Action Belle Tire’s Paul Ingles has Colorado Thunderbirds goalie Chase Horton in a precarious position as he lets a shot go during the Tier 1 Elite League Midget Major Showcase Nov. 11-13, hosted by the Oakland Grizzlies at the Troy Sports Center. See Tier 1 Elite’s Commissioner Larry Johnson's Corner and Chuck Klonke’s reports on Pages 19-21. Hockey Weekly photo by John Castine CORECORE HolidayHoliday HockeyHockey Camp!Camp! SeeSee PagePage 1212 forfor detailsdetails PAGE 8 HOCKEY WEEKLY NOVEMBER 23, 2011 Have your COACH Hockey Michigan, AAU KIM’S best CORNER growing, looking to expand

By Kim McCullough By Paul Harris tourney ever MSc, YCS Hockey Weekly Editor Hockey Michigan con- t this point of the season, I’m sure offering you a free copy of the “Best tinues to add more teams. your team has been in at least one or Tournament Blueprint.” In this free report, That’s the word from the Atwo tournaments – I know some you’ll find a step-by-step plan that creator of the organization players and teams who have been in three willhelp you to be at your best both phys- that began as an alternative or four. ically and mentally, whether it’s your first to the Michigan Amateur There is no doubt that tournaments are game of the tournament or your fifth. Hockey Association’s great fun. You probably remember just as And, as an added bonus, I have also American Development much about what included the “Blue- Model rule that limits the happened off the ice print Basics,” an number of Mite teams that as what happened on audio recording in can play full-ice hockey in the ice. It’s a terrific Go blue which I talk you Michigan. way for the team to Here are links to three specialized through the entire “It keeps growing,” said bond and get some “blueprints” to help you have your blueprint and show Keith Kloock, adding that games in against best tournament ever: you exactly how to Amateur Athletic Union opponents you don’t use it so that you (AAU)- backed Hockey face on a regular COACHES, go to: play your best every Michigan had surpassed the basis. http://totalfemalehockey.com/tourna- time you hit the ice. 30-team mark at the Mite AAU’s Keith Noll: Michigan Hockey But there is noth- ment_blueprint_coach_dl.shtml But before you go Minor level alone. “We’re getting a lot founder Keith ing worse than PLAYERS, go to: grab your free copy He said six new teams of calls,” including Kloock: “It keeps showing up at a tour- http://totalfemalehockey.com/tourna- of the report and had joined in the past about Adult hockey. growing.” nament and under- ment_blueprint_player_dl.shtml audio, I want to make month alone, including a performing. You sure you are getting contingent from the St. spend all that time, PARENTS, go to: the one that is right Louis area. “If that happens, Katie, bar the door,” energy (and money) http://totalfemalehockey.com/tourna- for you. I created According to Kloock, there has also been said Noll, who said that the organization only to give a ment_blueprint_parent_dl.shtml three different ver- interest from teams in Kansas City and has been getting calls about Adult hockey mediocre effort. It’s sions of the plan: Chicago areas as well. Teams from from both potential leagues and arenas. frustrating for the One is for coaches, Indianapolis were already involved. Michigan has traditionally had more reg- coaches, players and parents. Playing your one for players and one for parents. Each of AAU has been getting a lot of inquiries istered Adult players than any other state. best all tournament long is tough. you are going to have slightly different from hockey leagues from across the coun- Noll also emphasised that AAU is not try- Especially when you’ve got games that are roles in making sure the tournament is a try. ing to usurp USA Hockey’s position. just a few hours apart or when you have to success, so I personalized the audio for each “We’re getting a lot of calls from coast to “We’re just hoping, more than anything, travel a long way. In order to perform your of you. Make sure that you use the correct coast,” said AAU National Chairperson that we can keep more people playing ice best, and make sure you’re still playing on link below to get the Blueprint that has Hockey Keith Noll. “I was recently was on a hockey and have more play and learn the Sunday, you’ve got to take care of all the been designed with you in mind. conference call with groups from Illinois, game,” Noll said. details. You can’t just expect to show up and Pass these links along to your fellow Indiana, Missouri, Michigan and Ohio.” Kloock is also looking for Hockey win. You’ve got to prepare. coaches, parents and teammates so that they He also added that, within the week, AAU Michigan to grow even larger in 2012-13. I want to help you make your next tour- can have their best tournament too. Enjoy would hold a vote to determine if it would “My concern next year is trying to add nament the best one ever. That’s why I am and good luck at your next tournament. sanction Adult hockey. Squirts,” he said.

ADRAY Website: www.adrayhockey.org Community Hockey League

EAST STANDINGS SAGINAW 2 0 1 0 0 0 6 USA TIMBERWLVS 3 1 0 6 25 16 SQUIRT RED DIVISION GRAND VALLEY 1 0 3 0 0 3 12 SQUIRT WHITE DIVISION SAGINAW 4 0 2 0 0 4 16 CAPITALS 1 3 1 3 13 16 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA PEE WEE BLUE DIVISION TEAM W L T PTS GF GA TROY PENGUINS 1 3 0 2 6 21 MUSKEGON 2 4 0 0 8 19 6 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA BAY COUNTY 1 2 0 0 4 12 0 METRO STANDINGS PENGUINS 0 2 1 1 4 14 KOHA GOLD 2 0 1 5 11 4 MNHA 2 5 1 0 10 28 8 TAWAS 1 1 0 0 2 4 0 MITE WHITE DIVISION USA FALCONS 0 2 0 0 3 8 BATTLE CREEK 1 2 1 0 4 13 4 WEST SHORE 1 4 1 0 8 26 11 SAGINAW 1 1 1 0 2 5 6 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA TROY BLCKHWKS 0 5 0 0 13 31 GRAHA 4 2 2 0 4 12 16 KOHA BROWN 2 1 0 4 12 9 MIDLAND 1 0 1 0 0 0 5 BRUINS 4 0 0 8 24 3 PEE WEE BLUE DIVISION GRAND VALLEY 3 1 1 0 2 7 8 HAWKS 2 2 1 0 4 14 10 MT. PLEASANT 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 TROY SABRES 3 0 1 7 20 6 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA KENTWOOD 1 0 1 1 1 3 4 BIG RAPIDS 1 1 1 1 3 10 11 SAGINAW 4 0 1 0 0 0 6 SCS BRUINS 4 1 0 8 25 8 WILD 2 0 0 4 10 2 CC PRIDE 2 0 2 0 0 4 14 GRAHA 1 2 3 1 5 15 22 SQUIRT RED DIVISION BIRMINGHAM 1 3 1 0 6 19 8 GPHA BRUINS 1 0 0 2 8 2 HAWKS 3 0 4 0 0 6 19 MUSKEGON 1 1 3 0 2 9 10 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA TROY SHARKS 1 1 1 3 8 8 TRAVELERS 1 3 1 0 6 16 12 SQUIRT BLUE DIVISION GLAHA 2 0 6 0 0 2 35 MIDLAND 2 1 0 0 2 4 2 TROY LIGHTNING 2 2 0 4 10 15 SCS PENGUINS 3 1 0 6 26 20 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA BANTAM WHITE DIVISION BAY COUNTY 2 2 0 1 5 12 7 SCS JETS 1 2 0 2 8 18 BULLDOGS 1 1 0 2 6 5 GRAHA 3 5 0 0 10 30 6 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA MT. PLEASANT 2 0 0 2 2 6 6 BLACKEAGLES 0 5 0 0 0 30 PREDATORS 1 1 0 2 11 10 GRAND VALLEY 1 1 0 0 2 2 1 BIG RAPIDS 1 5 1 1 11 32 10 SAGINAW 5 1 1 0 2 4 6 SCS 3 0 3 0 0 3 15 CHIEFS 2 3 0 4 18 26 BIG RAPIDS 1 4 2 0 8 25 22 GLAHA 2 6 2 1 13 38 18 SAGINAW 3 0 1 1 1 3 5 SCS ICE HAWKS 0 2 0 0 5 10 PHMHA 1 0 2 0 0 4 11 EGRAHA GOLD 2 2 0 4 14 19 EGRAHA BLUE 3 3 1 7 20 20 SAGINAW 2 0 2 0 0 3 6 FRASER N STARS 0 1 0 0 3 4 EASTSIDE CREW 0 2 0 0 13 15 HAWKS 2 1 1 1 3 12 10 MUSKEGON 1 1 1 1 3 4 7 PEE WEE WHITE DIVISION SQUIRT RED DIVISION SCC LONGHORNS 0 2 0 0 1 10 MUSKEGON 1 1 3 2 4 16 20 GRAND VALLEY 1 1 1 1 3 7 8 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA TEAM W L T PTS GF GA BWHA 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 ROCKFORD RAMS 1 4 1 3 16 31 WEST SHORE 1 2 3 1 5 18 19 MIDLAND 3 1 0 0 2 4 1 RED WINGS 3 0 0 6 23 7 BANTAM RED DIVISION KENTWOOD 2 0 3 2 2 13 19 KOHA GOLD 2 3 0 4 9 16 MT. PLEASANT 2 1 0 0 2 7 1 SHARKS 4 0 0 8 17 5 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA SQUIRT GREEN DIVISION HAWKS 2 1 2 0 2 9 13 BAY COUNTY 1 2 0 1 5 17 5 TROY BLUE JCKTS 4 1 3 11 36 18 FRASER BRUINS 5 0 0 10 29 1 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA KOHA BROWN 1 2 0 2 4 10 BAY COUNTY 3 3 1 0 6 14 9 KINGS 3 2 2 8 31 24 WARRIORS 5 1 0 10 37 15 HOLLAND 1 1 0 0 2 2 0 KENTWOOD 1 0 4 0 0 3 23 SAGINAW 1 1 0 1 3 8 5 TROY RED WINGS 2 2 0 4 16 15 FLYERS 3 2 0 6 20 17 GRAHA 2 3 0 1 7 25 12 BANTAM RED DIVISION GLADWIN GLAD #2 2 4 0 4 10 23 TROY FLYERS 1 1 1 3 9 10 MTC 2 4 4 0 8 27 31 SQUIRT SILVER 1 1 0 2 3 6 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA MIDLAND 1 0 2 0 0 1 10 TROY MAPLE LFS 2 3 0 4 15 20 BLACKHAWKS 3 3 0 6 16 15 EGRAHA BLUE 0 0 1 1 4 4 GLAHA 1 6 0 0 12 35 5 SAGINAW 3 0 3 0 0 5 12 POLAR BEARS 1 2 2 4 16 15 USA KNIGHTS 0 5 0 0 1 28 KENTWOOD 3 1 2 0 2 8 9 HAWKS 1 4 2 0 8 27 17 PEE WEE RED DIVISION ACHL 2 1 2 1 3 23 29 TRAVLERS 1 0 6 0 0 11 40 KOHA BLACK 1 3 0 2 11 20 ROCKFORD 1 2 1 1 5 12 10 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA BHAM 1 BARRAS 1 3 0 2 18 30 BANTAM BLUE DIVISION BERRIEN 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 HOLLAND 1 2 1 2 6 15 8 MIDLAND 2 1 0 0 2 4 3 BHAM 2 SPITFIRES 0 3 2 2 15 28 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA PEE WEE WHITE DIVISION EGRAHA GOLD 1 2 1 3 5 15 MT. PLEASANT 1 2 0 0 4 12 3 USA GRIZZLIES 0 3 1 1 8 26 BW BLUE JACKETS 2 0 0 4 14 2 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA GRAND VALLEY 2 2 4 0 4 14 26 GLADWIN GLAD #1 1 0 1 3 4 2 SQUIRT BLUE DIVISION MTC 1 4 0 0 8 21 6 EGRAHA BLUE 7 0 0 14 32 5 GRAHA 1 1 3 0 2 14 17 BAY COUNTY 2 2 1 0 4 8 9 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA BULLS 2 0 1 5 15 4 BATTLE CREEK 1 2 0 1 5 11 7 BERRIEN 1 0 5 0 0 3 27 SAGINAW 4 0 1 1 1 4 7 MCHA BULLDOGS 6 0 0 12 39 4 PHMHA 1 2 1 0 4 16 12 MUSKEGON 3 4 1 0 8 27 9 KOHA BLACK 0 0 0 0 0 0 TAWAS 1 0 1 0 0 2 6 BRUINS 4 2 0 8 25 18 SCS BRUINS 0 1 1 1 4 7 GRAHA 2 3 1 1 7 20 14 GIRLS STANDINGS SAGINAW 2 0 3 0 0 4 8 ICE DOGS 2 1 0 4 17 11 BLAZERS 0 3 1 1 12 25 KOHA WHITE 1 2 1 3 7 12 WHITE DIVISION BANTAM WHITE DIVISION SCS MAPLE LEAFS 3 2 0 6 16 13 GROSSE POINTE 0 4 1 1 5 25 KOHA GOLD 2 4 1 5 16 24 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA TEAM W L T PTS GF GA TRAVELERS 1 2 2 0 4 12 12 GLAHA 3 1 5 0 2 9 16 CHARLIE’S ANGELS 2 0 0 4 10 5 BAY COUNTY 1 3 0 0 6 12 2 PHMHA 2 0 1 2 2 6 7 WEST STANDINGS HOLLAND 1 0 4 0 0 0 21 GLDWN G-FRCE 19U 3 1 0 6 22 11 MIDLAND 1 1 1 0 2 5 3 BWHA 1 1 3 1 3 7 24 SQUIRT WHITE DIVISION GRAND VALLEY 2 0 3 0 0 7 21 ALPENA GIRLS 19U 1 3 0 2 11 15 SAGINAW 1 0 2 0 0 2 10 SCS PREDATORS 1 3 0 2 7 20 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA PEE WEE RED DIVISION TC GIRLS 16U 0 2 0 0 5 17 SAGINAW 3 0 1 0 0 0 4 PHMHA 1 0 3 1 1 2 12 MUSKEGON 3 2 0 0 4 14 6 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA CHEBOYGAN 0 0 0 0 0 0 MIDLAND 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 SCS GIANTS 0 2 0 0 2 12 HAWKS 1 5 1 0 10 26 9 GLAHA 1 1 0 0 2 3 0 RED DIVISION BANTAM RED DIVISION BWHA 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 GRAHA 1 3 1 0 6 16 5 MUSKEGON 2 3 0 0 6 13 3 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA TEAM W L T PTS GF GA PEE WEE RED DIVISION MNHA 1 2 1 0 4 12 10 MNHA 1 2 0 0 4 15 3 CHLS LGHTNG 16U 2 0 1 5 9 5 GLADWIN GLADS 3 0 0 6 18 1 TEAM W L T PTS GF GA BIG RAPIDS 2 3 2 0 6 14 9 HAWKS 1 2 0 0 4 7 0 USA WILDFLOWRS 1 0 1 3 6 5 TAWAS 1 2 0 0 4 10 3 NORTHSTARS 4 0 0 8 23 8 WEST SHORE 1 0 2 1 1 8 20 KOHA BLACK 1 1 0 2 7 7 HARTLAND WARRS 0 3 0 0 10 15 MT. PLEASANT 1 1 1 0 2 12 8 GRIFFINS 4 0 0 8 18 4 GRAND VALLEY 4 0 5 1 1 17 32 KENTWOOD 1 0 2 0 0 2 14 KALA GIRLS 19U 0 0 0 0 0 0 MIDLAND 2 0 2 0 0 0 10 MACHINE 4 1 0 8 26 13 CC PRIDE 1 0 3 0 0 4 20 BERRIEN 1 0 3 0 0 2 13 SUB PANTHRS 19-U 0 0 0 0 0 0 HOCKEY WEEKLY DECEMBER 7, 2011 Vol. 38, Issue 6 $2.00 HW WHALERS TRY OUT JOE LOUIS ICE – P. 6 www.hockeyweekly.com YOUR #1 AMATEUR HOCKEY CONNECTION FULL-ICEFULL-ICE MITESMITES

Hockey Weekly photo by John Castine SILVER STICK HEROICS: Patrick Guzzo scores an overtime goal at the International Silver Stick Midland Regional to defeat the Michigan Nationals and send the Blue Water Stars Squirt AA team to the finals in January. See Silver Stick and Thanksgiving tournament results and photos on Page 17.

Hockey Weekly photo by John Castine The Trenton Spitfires celebrate their 2-1 win over the Livonia Bulldogs in the Mite B championship game of the Livonia Thanksgiving Challenge. Both teams play full-ice games under the umbrella of AAU Michigan. HW Editor Paul Harris’ story is on Page 5.

REMEMBERING DAVID: David Mannino, 18, loved life, family, hockey and being a shoveler at Red Wings Hockey Weekly photo by Rena Laverty games. It’s those things the hockey community will remem- ber about him after he lost his battle to cancer. Read about HANGIN’ WITH HANK: The winners of the 2011 Henrik Zetterberg High School Scholarship – Derek Pierce this remarkable young man’s life on Page 12. and Taylor Moody – chat with Zetterberg in the Red Wings’ locker room after a recent game. Story is on Page 3. TheThe SummitSummit inin LansingLansing hashas newnew ownersowners -- SeeSee adad onon PagePage 55 DECEMBER 7, 2011 HOCKEY WEEKLY PAGE 5 2 AAU Mich. teams meet in tourney championship game By Paul Harris Hockey Weekly Editor The Trenton Spitfires defeated the Livonia Bulldogs 2-1 in the Mite B champi- onship game of the Livonia Thanksgiving Challenge Tournament, which was held at Eddie Edgar Arena. Those facts would only be significant to the players, coaches and parents of those two teams except for one thing: Both teams are playing under the banners of AAU Michigan and the Amateur Athletic Union instead of the Michigan Amateur Hockey Association and USA Hockey. Of course, they are among the teams who left MAHA and USA Hockey after the American Development Model rule propos- al was passed at MAHA's Annual Summer Meetings in July. The rule outlawed most full-ice hockey for Mites in Michigan. Among the tenets of the ADM is that Mite-aged players should play on either half-, or cross-ice surfaces and concentrate mainly on skill development and not full- fledged games. And Trenton Spitfires head coach Dave Above, Livonia Bulldogs goalie Stark agrees that those things will help to Bryant Riley makes one of sev- improve the skill development of players. eral tough saves he had during “I have no issues as far as cross ice goes,” the AAU Mite B championship Stark said. “We use a lot of the ADM stuff in game with three Trenton practices. But what we don't like is the man- Spitfires banging away at the dated stuff. ” puck, from left to right, Keegan He went on to explain that he thinks Harrington (13), Jack Czarnik playing on a smaller surface at the Mite (10) and Cainan Harrison (7). At ages (7 and 8) better develops skills like left, parents and fans from both stickhandling and passing, but doesn't the Livonia Bulldogs and develop the stride for speed as well as play- Trenton Spitfires Mite B AAU ing full ice does. teams packed the stands and Livonia Bulldogs' coach Paul Fretter said cheered loudly in support of the contest proved a point. their players. “It was a good game,” he said. “It had some passing, a couple of good plays. And Hockey Weekly photos they said there was no passing in full-ice by John Castine Mite hockey.” There are 33 full-ice Mite teams (20 Mite Taking it all in with a very interested eye B and 13 Mite Travel) in AAU Michigan. was Hockey Michigan founder and AAU They represent three leagues: Downriver- Michigan originator Keith Kloock. based Hockey Michigan (which includes the "I coached 80 percent of those kids at one Spitfires), Livonia's Full Potential Hockey time,” said Kloock, referring to the Trenton Academy – where the Bulldogs are one of Spitfires. eight teams - and the recently added Ice Mite Despite his opposition to forcing half- Hockey Club, which is based in Copper and cross-ice on most Mites, Kloock was Country of the upper one of the founders of UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP! peninsula. a downriver Mini- There were 12 teams Mite Half-Ice League a in all in the Mite B few years ago. WINTER ACTIVITIES: AAU Division of the Kloock said neither tournament which had the Spitfires or Youth Tournaments (see tournament calendar) five other divisions of Bulldogs had lost a Adult Leagues and Tournaments MAHA teams, includ- league game yet this ing Mite AA, Squirt B, season and they hadn't Drop-In Hockey Pee Wee B, Midget B faced each other until Stick and Puck and Midget BB. the Livonia tourna- The parents attend- ment. In the round Public Skate ing seem to like play- robin game they tied Private Lessons ing under the AAU 2-2, so the loss for umbrella as there was the Bulldogs was their large enthusiastic first. They fell behind crowds for both teams 2-0 on two second CAPITAL CENTRE and the Bulldogs even period goals from the posted on the arena Spitfires (one unas- KING’S CUP TOURNAMENT wall a set of huge sisted by Luke drawings of Bulldogs Crapanzano and the JANUARY 13-16. 2012 jerseys with the name other by Tyler (For details, see listing in and number of each of Plassman from their players on them. Cainan Harrison), but TOURNAMENT CALENDAR on Page 14) “I think it's work- closed the lead to a ing out really well,” goal with 1:44 left in said Livonia Bulldogs' the second on Dustin For more information parent Angela Warner. Fretter's goal (assists Call 517-319-1000 “The kids are enjoy- “I think it’s working out really well. The to Louden Santo and ing the full-ice play kids are enjoying the full-ice play and Noah Turner). The www.thesummitsportsandice.com and we're happy.” we're happy,” said Angela Warner, above goalies, Blake Bender Trenton Spitfires with her Livonia Bulldog Mite-aged son, for Trenton and parent Dale Holbrook Owen. Bryant Riley for The Summit Sports enjoys another feature Livonia, both made And Ice Complex of the AAU ice hockey experience. excellent saves throughout the game and “I like it because they're doing line the scoreless third period. 9410 Davis Highway changes,” he said. “In MAHA, you have two “It was a fun game to watch,” Kloock said Dimondale, MI 48910 minutes on, two minutes off. Here, they of the Mite B championship contest. “This Like us on facebook Dimondale, MI 48910 change lines.” is what it's supposed to be about: The kids.” HOCKEY WEEKLY DECEMBER 14, 2011 Vol. 38, Issue 7 $2.00 HW FOUR LOCAL TEAMS HEAD FOR QUEBEC – P. 5 www.hockeyweekly.com YOUR #1 AMATEUR HOCKEY CONNECTION ’TIS THE SEASON – FOR TOURNAMENTS

Silver sticks and gold medals go to area winners

Gage Parsons tackles Trevor McIntyre after he scored the OT winning goal for the Squirt B Midland Hornets in the Midland Silver Stick final. They won 4-3; Parsons scored the other three.

Above, the Belle Tire 12U Girls storm the Victory Above, members of the ’99 Compuware team hoist Honda net at their final of the 7th Annual North the Nations Cup after defeating Barrie 7-1 in the final. American Friendship Tournament. Belle Tire won, The win gave Team USA a total-points victory over 7-6, in double OT. At right, the goaltender for the Team Canada. See how the other Selects Hockey Novi Predators makes a save against the Summit Nations Cup divisions finished on Page 17. Ice Dogs during the Squirt B title game at the Trenton Silver Stick Regionals. See more photos and read about the Friendship tourney and Silver Stick regionals on Pages 5 and 17. Top photo by John Castine. Other photos by Hockey Weekly Action Photos

TheThe SummitSummit inin LansingLansing hashas newnew ownersowners -- SeeSee adad onon PagePage 1111 DECEMBER 14, 2011 HOCKEY WEEKLY PAGE 5 NATIONAL AAA RANKINGS BT, LC, Compuware, VH head to Quebec By Chuck Klonke Ratings compiled by Hockey Weekly. Hockey Weekly Staff Writer Michigan teams are in italic. The Quebec International Pee Wee Rankings as of December 6, 2011 Hockey Tournament has traditionally been a showcase for Detroit area AAA teams. MIDGET MAJOR Four of this year’s 1999 teams are hoping 1. SHATTUCK ST. MARY (MN) the string of success gets a bit longer. 2. TEAM ILLINOIS Little Caesars, No. 1 in Hockey Weekly’s 3. NEPONSET VALLEY RIVER RATS (MA) national rankings, Compuware (No. 5), 4. BUFFALO JR. SABRES Belle Tire and Victory Honda are the four 5. CAPE COD WHALERS (MA) 6. HONEYBAKED Detroit area teams that will participate in 7. MID-FAIRFIELD BLUES (CT) this year’s event, which will be mainly held 8. ALASKA WOLVES at the Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec from Feb. 9. CHICAGO FURY 9-19. 10. CHICAGO MISSION Last year, Little Caesars was runnerup, MIDGET MINOR losing to the New York Rangers 4-2 in the 1. BELLE TIRE championship game. In 2010, Compuware 2. CHICAGO MISSION beat Burnaby (British Columbia) 1-0 in the 3. LONG ISLAND ROYALS final. 4. COLORADO THUNDERBIRDS Belle Tire is playing excellent hockey 5. CLEVELAND BARONS and first-year head coach Jason Lawmaster Photo by Hockey Weekly Action Photos 6. CHICAGO FURY is excited to have the chance to play in one The 1999 Compuware team poses with the Selects Hockey Nations Cup championship 7. HONEYBAKED of the most prestigious tournaments in trophy after helping Team USA win the title over Team Canada at Great Lake Sports City 8. PITTSBURGH HORNETS North America. Dec. 4. Compuware will be joining Victory Honda, Belle Tire and Little Caesars in traveling 9. LA JR. KINGS Belle Tire is 11-1-3 in the Tier 1 Elite to Quebec in February to contend for the Pee Wee Major title there. 10. ALASKA WOLVES Hockey League and is unbeaten in its last BANTAM MAJOR nine league games. to be playing in front of big crowds if they more respect for what you’re teaching when 1. ST. LOUIS BLUES “It was great to hear that we were invit- play in college or play Junior. My message the kids know that you’re not there just 2. WLKS-BARRE/SCRNTN JR. KNIGHTS (PA) ed,” Lawmaster said. “The kids have worked to them is to work hard, but to take it all in because you have a son on the team. You’re 3. BELLE TIRE hard and played hard all year. This is a nice and enjoy the experience. It’s something there because you want to teach them the 4. COMPUWARE reward for that. Getting invited to Quebec they’ll never forget.” game. That’s how I felt when I was play- 5. CHICAGO MISSION was one of the short-term goals that the Lawmaster retired in 2010 after playing ing.” 6. VALLEY JR WARRIORS (MA) team set for themselves.” professional hockey for 10 seasons. He got Lawmaster said that the team he inherited 7. SHATTUCK ST. MARY (MN) Other coaches who have participated in a taste of coaching as an assistant last sea- hasn’t changed much from the Belle Tire 8. LITTLE CAESARS the tournament say that it’s like no other team that competed at the Pee Wee Minor 9. LONG ISLAND GULLS son and accepted the head coaching job 10. LA SELECTS tournament that 11- and 12-year-olds have with Belle Tire. level last season. played in. The crowds -- the Coliseum is “I think it’s great to coach at this level,” The biggest change has been in goal with BANTAM MINOR often filled to capacity – and the atmos- Lawmaster said. “The kids listen to every newcomers Brian George and Dominic 1. HONEYBAKED phere are different from any other youth word. They soak it up like sponges. It’s so Barton fitting in well. The defense has also 2. ST. LOUIS BLUES hockey tournament. rewarding to see them go out and use what been solid so far this season. The defense- 3. LITTLE CAESARS “We’re just going to get ready to play like men are Josh Martin, Camden Odegard, 4. CHICAGO MISSION we’ve told them. I’ve got a great group of 5. NEW JERSEY COLONIALS we do for any other game,” Lawmaster said. kids. They’re outstanding students and good Hunter Payment, Reagan Wortz, Michael 6. TEAM COMCAST (NJ) “It’s a great experience for the kids to get a people.” Faremouth, Jake Young and Ryan 7. NEW JERSEY DEVILS chance to play in the Quebec Coliseum and Lawmaster is the only one on the coach- Dickinson. 8. SOUTH SHORE KINGS MA) in the same tournament that players like ing staff that isn’t a parent of one of the The forwards are Alex Lycett, Brendan 9. MADISON CAPITOLS (WI) Sidney Crosby played in when he was their players. He thinks that’s a positive. He said Murphy, Matthew Schaumburger, Gregory 10. VICTORY HONDA age. that the parents agree with him. Pine, Jared Hoerle, Josh Wildauer, Hugh PEE WEE MAJOR “It’s going to be a preview of things to “I think being a non-parent head coach is Anderson, Jason Brancheau, Thomas 1. LITTLE CAESARS come for a lot of these kids who are going an advantage,” he said. “I think there’s Hernandez and Matt Stokes. 2. CHICAGO MISSION In a recent showcase hosted by Belle Tire, 3. ST. LOUIS BLUES the team notched four victories and a tie. It 4. NEW JERSEY COLONIALS started with a 5-1 victory against the 5. COMPUWARE No. 1 HoneyBaked Bantam Madison Capitals. After skating to a 3-3 tie 6. PROVIDENCE CAPITALS (RI) with the Chicago Fury, Belle Tire beat the 7. NEW ENGLAND JR. FALCONS Ohio Blue Jackets 10-1, defeated the 8. PHILADELPHIA JR. FLYERS Pittsburgh Hornets 3-1 and edged the 9. SOUTH SHORE KINGS (MA) Minor defeats Compuware Milwaukee Jr. Admirals 4-3. 10. MID-FAIRFIELD BLUES (CT) Six different players scored goals in a a Tier I Elite Hockey League Midget Minor Lawmaster said that one of the pivotal PEE WEE MINOR balanced attack as HoneyBaked, Hockey Showcase game at the Pennsauken (N.J.) games of the season for Belle Tire was 1. CHICAGO MISSION Weekly's No. 1 Bantam Minor team, defeat- Flyers Skate Zone on Dec. 4. against the Milwaukee Jr. Admirals in the 2. MINUTEMEN FLAMES (MA) ed Compuware 6-2 in a High Performance Damian Chrcek had a goal and two assists Cleveland showcase in early October. Belle 3. LITTLE CAESARS Hockey League Bantam Minor game at and Anthony Patella, Dylan Pavalek and Tire went into the third period trailing 3-2, 4. HONEYBAKED Compuware Arena on Dec. 5. Kyle Conner each added a goal and an assist but came away with a 4-3 victory. 5. WESTCHESTER EXPRESS (PA) Mark Pastujov, Dalton Messina and for Belle Tire. Cody Gibson made 26 saves. “We got the lead and managed to hold 6. LONG ISLAND ROYALS Mitch Eliot each had a goal and an assist, Daniel Dolliver stopped 37 shots for DC. on,” Lawmaster said. “The kids showed a lot 7. MID-FAIRFIELD BLUES (CT) and Noah Lalonde, Brendan Morgan and … The No. 2 Pee Wee Major team in the of character in winning a tough game like 8. NEW JERSEY COLONIALS that. 9. CLEVELAND BARONS Sean Day also scored for HoneyBaked. country, the St. Louis Blues, hammered the 10. COMPUWARE Keegan Howdeshell and Jonathan No. 9 Madison (WI) Capitals in a two-game “It’s like I told them at the start of the Precopio had a goal and an assist each for series the weekend of Dec. 4. year. If you’re willing to listen, I’ll tell you SQUIRT MAJOR Compuware and Nick Macan assisted on The scores of the games were 9-1 and 12- what I know about hockey.” 1. MINUTEMEN FLAMES (MA) both goals. 2 as the Blues' Clayton Keller, Logan If Belle Tire’s record is any indication, 2. BELLE TIRE …. Lester Lancaster scored twice to give No. Brown, Ty Farmer and Trent Frederic contin- the players are extremely good listeners and 3. MID-FAIRFIELD BLUES (CT) Lawmaster knows quite a bit about hockey. 4. HONEYBAKED 1 Belle Tire a 6-2 win over the DC Capitals in ued to impress. 5. NEW JERSEY COLONIALS 6. LITTLE CAESARS (NORTH) 7. CHICAGO MISSION AAU hopes to decide on Adult hockey soon 8. MERCER CHIEFS (NJ) 9. NEW JERSEY DEVILS By Paul Harris But if a decision wasn't made by then, it would likely not come 10. HIGHLAND PARK FALCONS (IL) Hockey Weekly Editor until after Christmas. SQUIRT MINOR The Amateur Athletic Union still had not decided whether it would Kraemer talked about MAHA and USA Hockey's potential compe- 1. SOUTH SHORE KINGS (MA) make a foray into Adult Hockey. tition for grown up hockey players. 2. MID-FAIRFIELD BLUES (CT) The organization, which is the national governing body for 33 “Especially here in Metro Detroit, they're (Adult players, teams 3. NEW JERSEY COLONIALS Mite teams in Michigan that play under the state umbrella of AAU and leagues) all USA Hockey and they're happy,” he said. “ … I 4. BAY STATE BREAKERS (MA) Michigan, is considering making itself available to Adult teams. believe the guys are happy, but that doesn't mean that some won't 5. MINUTEMEN FLAMES (MA) That would be a significant move in Michigan, which has more want to go (to AAU, if they have that option). ” 6. MERCER CHIEFS (NJ) Adult players than any other USA Hockey region. According to Arctic Edge general manager Craig O'Neal said he hasn't heard 7. TEAM COMCAST (NJ) Michigan Amateur Hockey Association Vice President Seniors Ray anything concerning AAU and Adult hockey, but: 8. MIDDLESEXS ISLANDERS (MA) Kraemer, Adult players make up 40 percent of MAHA. “It wouldn't surprise me that they (AAU) would try to get into the 9. SYRACUSE NATIONALS (NY) AAU National Chairperson, Hockey Keith Noll said – with AAU adults,” O'Neal said. “With having the 7-8 year-olds, and I heard 10. LA HOCKEY CLUB National President Bobby Dodd traveling - the organization hoped they were planning to get into Squirt next year … it wouldn't sur- to make a decision on Adult hockey by Dec. 14. prise me at all to see them try to get into the Adult level.”