The Voice of Sport

TVOS and Fan-tastic Sports - NHL Celebrates their Stars in Ottawa

2012-02-01T12:17:00.000-05:00

Members of Team Alfredsson and Team Chara
at the 2012 NHL All-Star Skills Competition
(Photo Andrew Rodger TVOS)

Every Wednesday, I share my thoughts from inside the NHL Alumni Association and from around today's NHL at Peter Ing and Bryce Salvador's Fan-tastic Sports XHockey blog. This week - taking a look back at the 2012 NHL All-Star celebrations in Ottawa.

The 2012 All-Star weekend proved without a doubt that as far as elite level, world-class talent goes – there is no shortage of stars in the NHL. When you go down the list of the players that were in attendance – Malkin, Kane, Stamkos, Tavares, Kessel, Neal and Giroux to name just a few, it is clear that the NHL will have an abundance of star power for years to come.

Read the entire article at the XHockey blog.

The City Of Ottawa Unveils Their Rink Of Dreams

2012-01-26T12:41:00.000-05:00

A dream came true yesterday...

Ottawa's New Rink of Dreams
(Photo TVOS)

With the sun slowly fading from view and an abundance of television camera lights casting their glow onto the scene, the city of Ottawa, the Sens Foundation, the Ottawa Senators and Hockey Canada proudly opened the new Rink of Dreams at Ottawa City Hall.

Skaters of all ages arrived at the Rink of Dreams for the unveiling, as Mayor Jim Watson, members of Ottawa’s city council and their guests, which included two of the Ottawa Senators’ All-Stars, Erik Karlsson and Milan Michalek, as well as Bryan Murray, Paul MacLean and Laurie Boschman, proclaimed the beautifully designed refrigerated ice surface officially “open”.

Two of Ottawa's All-Stars - Erik Karlsson and Milan Michalek
(Photo TVOS)

“Back in October, we gathered to dig the first shovel of soil and today the Rink of Dreams becomes a reality as it officially opens to the public,” Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson said in his opening remarks. “It will be a city-wide asset that will help revitalize our downtown core and it will offer predictable and reliable skating for children and adults from November until March - completely free!”

“I also want to sincerely thank the Ottawa Senators and the Sens Foundation,” he continued. “They are wonderful contributors to our community. They give back so much and this is but one example.”

Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson with Majic 100's Stuntman Stu
(Photo TVOS)

The Rink of Dreams is the first of many ice surfaces the Sens Foundation plans to open throughout the city as a way to give back to the Ottawa community and their fans. Danielle Robinson, the President of the Sens Foundation, also addressed those in attendance at the official opening.

“Today is a really proud day for the Ottawa Senators, the Sens Foundation and our Board of Directors,” Robinson explained. “Behind Roger’s House, this Rink of Dreams is the second largest project that we have initiated and delivered to the community. Giving back to this region, investing, creating new resources and programs for children, youth and their families is something that we care very much about at our organization.”

“In our twenty year history, the Ottawa Senators and the Sens Foundation has invested more than $65 million to various community programs and initiatives. We are only able to do this with success because of the kinds of partnerships that we enjoy with corporate and municipal partners, community organizations and most importantly, with our fans.”

The final speaker of the evening, Cyril Leeder, the President of the Ottawa Senators, thanked the many people that helped to raise the funding for the project and those that worked on the design and construction of the Rink of Dreams - with a special thank you for the project manager from the Senators, Aaron Robinson. In his speech, Leeder discussed the lasting legacy of the Rink of Dreams project.

“The Rink of Dreams will be a fantastic legacy project that truly was built by the community, for the community,” he said. “I look forward to skating on this rink, my children will skate on this rink and hopefully, my grandchildren will have an opportunity to skate on this rink one day.”

This looks familiar...
Stuntman Stu on Twitter before the official unveiling
(Photo TVOS)

With the official proclamation to open the rink delivered and the ribbon cutting ceremony concluded, the eager skaters took to the clean, crisp ice surface. Not much of a skater myself, I stood to the side chatting with NHL Alumni member Laurie Boschman. As the first captain in the modern era of the Ottawa Senators franchise, Laurie holds a special place of honour in the history of the franchise as it celebrates its 20th anniversary this season. We spoke about the upcoming All-Star festivities and the lasting impact that it will have on the city. While skaters of all ages glided past us, their smiling faces proof that the Rink of Dreams was already a success.

Congratulations to everyone involved with the Rink of Dreams project. Your vision for the future - your “Rink of Dreams” has become a reality.

The NHL Alumni On Ottawa's CTV Morning Live

2012-01-23T12:58:00.000-05:00

On Monday morning, I joined Kurt Stoodley on Ottawa's CTV Morning Live to discuss my work with the NHL Alumni Association and the upcoming NHL All-Star game.

NHL Alumni Interview with Hall of Famer and Hockey Legend Bernie Parent

2012-01-22T14:45:00.000-05:00

Bernie Parent at the 2012 Winter Classic
(Photo - Wikipedia)

There was no shortage of storylines in the weeks leading up to the NHL Alumni game between the Philadelphia Flyers and the New York Rangers at the NHL’s 2012 Bridgestone Winter Classic. Two of the greatest captains in the history of the league, Bob Clarke and Mark Messier, were about to face off in the outdoor game at Citizen’s Bank Park in Philadelphia. Eric Lindros and John Leclair were reuniting as two-thirds of the famed ‘Legion of Doom’ line and the recently retired Mark Recchi joined his former Flyers teammates in the historic game. The man that stole the show though and captured the hearts of a new generation of hockey fans was Hall of Famer and hockey legend Bernie Parent.

During Parent’s playing career, the common phrase amongst hockey fans in Philadelphia was, “Only the Lord save more” and that still rings true today. At 66-years young, Bernie was perfect during his time on the ice in the Alumni game - his first game since an eye injury ended his career in 1979. After several busy weeks preparing for the Winter Classic, the two-time Stanley Cup champion, motivational speaker and author of Journey Through Risk and Fear, shared his thoughts on the event, facing fear and finding your passion in life, as well as the transition to life after hockey in our recent interview.

Read my interview with Bernie Parent at the NHL Alumni site

TVOS and Fan-tastic Sports - My Vote For Ottawa's All-Stars - The Capital City Condors

2012-01-22T14:33:00.000-05:00

Ryan and Isaac from Ottawa's Capital City Condors
(Photo courtesy of Jim Perkins)

Every Wednesday, I share my thoughts from inside the NHL Alumni Association and from around today's NHL at Peter Ing and Bryce Salvador's Fan-tastic Sports XHockey blog. This week - My vote for Ottawa's All-Stars - The Capital City Condors hockey program for children with special needs.

There is an air of excitement in Canada’s capital city as we prepare to host the NHL’s All-Star game at the end of the month. The votes have been cast for the starting lineup, the NHL has filled in the rosters and there is no doubt that the NHL stars will shine when they arrive for the festivities. Since the theme of the month here in Ottawa is All-Stars, I would like to share a story about my favourite All-Stars – Jim and Shana Perkins and the Capital City Condors.

In December of 2010, AHL veteran Bryan Helmer sent an email out to friends, asking us to support the Capital City Condors as they took part in the Aviva Community Fund Challenge – an annual contest that awards funding to many worthy causes. As I clicked on the link Bryan sent, I began to learn more about the Condors program. It is not only a tremendous hockey program for Ottawa area children with special needs, but it opened my eyes to a problem in our hockey-mad culture that I did not realize existed – not everyone that wants to play hockey as a child has the opportunity to do so.

Read the entire article at the XHockey blog

Integral Hockey - Stick Handling to Success

2012-01-22T14:11:00.001-05:00

Whether you are the parent of a young hockey player with NHL dreams or an adult playing recreationally for the love of the game, it is hard to ignore the rising costs of hockey. League fees are constantly on the rise, as is the cost of equipment. Even the price of a hockey stick has increased in recent years, as more and more players take advantage of the new technology used to make carbon fibre sticks. It provides more power in your shot, but it can take a bite out of your wallet. If and when it breaks (which seems to happen frequently in crucial moments of an NHL game) it is tossed aside and you find yourself saving up for a new one.

Thankfully, Integral Hockey is helping to reduce some of the costs of playing hockey and answering the question - what can I do with my high-priced broken stick? The answer is simple. Send it to them and they can repair it! Based in British Columbia, Integral Hockey is seeing steady growth and interest in their stick repair technology and they are exploring franchise possibilities and expanding throughout Canada.

“Our company was formed about a year and a half ago and the technology behind the company was developed about two years ago,” Integral Hockey’s Gord Piercey explained in a recent telephone interview. “It is a work in progress but we have it to the point where we do such a good job on the repair that we are able to introduce the product to a very high level of hockey at this point.”

“The end result is a hollow carbon fibre repair and the technical term for the process is the carbon fibre e-glass hybrid vacuum process. It is a proprietary process that we use, but it is quite different from what is in the market today from other stick repair processes. Ours is a hollow carbon fibre, so that allows us to keep the weight down in the repair. It also allows us to keep the flexibility and the balance. The end result is a stick that is pretty much like the day you bought it.”

Part of the challenge of growing the company is making consumers aware of the technology and the fact that your stick can be repaired, as opposed to simply ending up in the landfill. If Integral Hockey does receive a stick that cannot be repaired, it is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.

“People are very busy and stick repair is not something that has been readily advertised or really promoted through the stick manufacturers and stick companies - they want to sell new sticks,” Piercey said. “Traditionally, people say, ‘I didn’t know you could get a stick repaired’ or ‘I know someone that had a stick repaired and they didn’t like it’. We took that into consideration when we developed our process and now we can offer a repair system that people truly have no issue using because the end result is a lot different from the other services out there today.”

“Our true goal is to help people - we are a company that sees a real problem and we want to get to the bottom of it and find a real solution. We are trying to help parents, kids and teams get their players through hockey. We know that if you are a parent and have two or three kids in hockey, then that it is a tremendous expense. I have clients that would bring in a stick that their older son broke and they would pass it down to another son after it had been repaired.”

“I have 72 sticks on my bench right now from the Drumheller Dragons,” he continued. “They saw the value in what we do and for them to replace those sticks, if they were $100-$150 new - it will save them thousands of dollars if they were to just replace those sticks. They saved all of their sticks from last year, we repaired them and now they have practise sticks for this season.”

One of the goals at Integral Hockey is to help young athletes by giving back to the community. They have programs in place with junior hockey teams that allows the company to make regular donations to local KidSport chapters. The idea is as innovative as their repair work.

“If they break a stick,” Piercey explained. “They can autograph it, we will repair it and put it in a retail location. For every autographed stick that is sold, we donate $5 to KidSport. At the end of the year, we calculate how many sticks were sold and we write a cheque. Last year, we sold about $270 worth of autographed sticks and we topped up the donation to $500. We try to do anything that we can and if there is an opportunity to help out, we do it. We are there to help - we want to do things to help out the hockey community.”

As the company grows, so does their reputation for quality and affordable repairs. Jason Jaffray, a member of the Winnipeg Jets organization, explains at the Integral Hockey website just how effective the company’s repair work is - as time went on, it became difficult to tell the difference between his new sticks and the one that was repaired!

“I had a chance to use a stick repaired by Integral Hockey,” Jaffray wrote. “At first I was very skeptical about using a recycled stick. But after using it, I found it to be no different from my other sticks on my rack. It was just as strong as my other sticks and a week later, I found myself searching the shaft of my sticks to see which stick was the one that was repaired – because honestly, I couldn’t tell the difference between the three. I definitely support Integral Hockey and would recommend them to anyone wanting to save some money and use a stick that still feels like new.”

For Piercey, hearing a comment like Jason’s is the ultimate compliment and it illustrates that their hard work is paying off. It is becoming a familiar story - players that have their sticks repaired trust the work done by Integral Hockey and instead of the repaired one being a “practise” stick, it is becoming part of their regular rotation.

“We are so proud when we hear that,” Piercey acknowledged. “When we first heard that the leading scorer for the Alberni Bulldogs was using one of our sticks in actual games, we were just so happy to hear that! We repaired those sticks for Jason too, and he took them to the ice in Calgary where he was practising with some friends and other NHL players and he loved the sticks. If we have players like Jason, an NHLer, saying good things about our work, then that goes a long way for us and it filters down to the Junior A level.”

“We’ve come a long way as a company and it’s been great - we have had tremendous results and nothing but positive feedback. We are looking forward to helping more people.”

Offering a great and innovative service, while helping families that may be struggling with the high costs of hockey - it sounds like a winning formula to me.

If you would like more information on Integral Hockey, whether it is having a stick repaired or looking for a franchise near you, visit their website: www.integralhockey.com

TVOS at Fan-tastic Sports: Ottawa Fans Support their Sens - Vote 4 into NHL All-Star Game

2012-01-13T17:21:00.001-05:00

Senators Captain Daniel Alfredsson
(Photo by Dianne Rodger - copyright TVOS)

While I live in Ottawa, I believe that it is important to start this week’s column by pointing out that I am not a Senators fan. It is a great organization and I do enjoy following the Senators because I know a few of their current and former players, but for most of my life, I have not had a ‘favourite’ team. I am a hockey fan first and find a Nashville – Anaheim game just as interesting to watch as an Ottawa – Toronto match-up. So, having said that, I’d like to address the so-called controversy surrounding the recent announcement that four Ottawa Senators were voted into the starting lineup of this year’s NHL All-Star game.

For hockey fans not in the Ottawa area, it may have been a surprise to see Daniel Alfredsson, Erik Karlsson, Jason Spezza and Milan Michalek voted into the All-Star game, but it is a reflection of how excited the city is about this game. It also shows how loved the Senators are in this city and that the fans appreciate the effort the team has put forth on the ice this season. Raise your hand if you predicted the Senators would be in a playoff position after 42 games…

Read the entire article at the Fan-tastic Sports XHockey blog

TVOS and Fan-tastic Sports - NHL's Winter Classic Becomes A Great Holiday Tradition

2012-01-04T16:41:00.002-05:00

Every Wednesday, I share my thoughts from inside the NHL Alumni Association and from around today's NHL at Peter Ing's XHockey blog. This week, I take a look at the NHL's Winter Classic.

NHL's Winter Classic Becomes A Great Holiday Tradition

I wasn’t in the room at the NHL office in New York at the time, but I am sure that when the Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens first approached the NHL with the idea of holding an alumni and regular season NHL game outdoors in a football stadium, there were probably several raised eyebrows. The first question may have been, “You would like to do what?”

Despite the cold weather at the 2003 Heritage Classic, the event was a huge success and an instant hit with hockey fans. With over 55,000 people in the stands at Edmonton’s Commonwealth Stadium braving the bone-chilling cold, the Oilers and Canadiens Alumni entertained the crowd before the NHL game got underway. Looking to stake a claim to the huge television audience in the United States during the holiday season, the league expanded on the idea and created their annual Winter Classic, which has been held every year since 2008.

Read the entire article at the XHockey site

NHL Alumni Interview with Jason York - Enjoying Life As A "Healthy Scratch"

2011-12-20T15:22:00.000-05:00

The last thing that you want to hear from your coach when you are a professional hockey player is that you will be a healthy scratch. Since his retirement from the NHL though, NHL Alumni member Jason York can embrace that phrase with pride. Along with his co-host Steve Lloyd, Jason helps to keep hockey fans in the nation’s capital up to date on the Ottawa Senators, as well as all the news from around the NHL as part of The Healthy Scratches on Ottawa’s Team 1200 radio station. .

With 757 games played as a defenseman in the league, York is very knowledgeable about the ins and outs of the game and the media world has taken notice. Along with his radio work, he writes a weekly column every Sunday in the Ottawa Sun and appears on Rogers Sportsnet as an analyst and commentator.

Read the interview with Jason York at the NHL Alumni site

Ask the Alumni with Kevin Lowe

2011-12-15T13:45:00.000-05:00

Sharing a hometown with Kevin Lowe, I have always kept a close eye on the Edmonton Oilers. While Lachute, Quebec is in the heart of Montreal Canadiens territory, it was very easy to cheer for the Campbell Conference team in Edmonton during the 80’s because of their exciting end-to-end style of play. With teammates named Kurri, Coffey, Anderson, Messier, Fuhr and Moog - and until the summer of 1988, a young man named Gretzky, our hometown hockey hero skated onto the world stage after honing his skills in our small town.

I have had the opportunity to interview Kevin many times since I began my writing career, reminiscing about his days in Lachute, discussing his work with the Oilers, as well as being part of Hockey Canada’s management team. Each conversation has been insightful and educational, providing an interesting view into the hockey world. Although he has an extremely busy schedule as the President of Hockey Operations for the Oilers, he set aside some time to answer questions from hockey fans in this instalment of Ask the Alumni.

Read the full interview with Kevin Lowe at the NHL Alumni Association's website

TVOS and Fan-tastic Sports - Can Team Chemistry Make A Difference?

2011-12-14T13:02:00.000-05:00

Peter Ing
(Photo - NHL Alumni Association)

Every Wednesday, I share my thoughts from inside the NHL Alumni Association and from around today's NHL at Peter Ing's XHockey blog. This week, I take a look at team chemistry - is it real or just a sports cliche?

Can Team Chemistry Make A Difference?

As a sports columnist, my family, friends and readers often ask me for my pre-season predictions. Who will win the Stanley Cup or the Super Bowl and ‘how will my team do this year’ are questions that I hear on a regular basis. While I used to work diligently trying to see into the future, predicting a league champion is not an easy task. There are too many factors involved and the biggest of course is managing to stay healthy – injuries can derail a good team in a hurry! If you are wondering how your team will do in any given season, I’ll pass along something I have learnt from my interviews and you may find your answer. How well do the guys on your favourite team get along with each other?

Read the rest of the article at the Fan-tastic Sports XHockey blog

"Business Garfoose" Does Some Baking For The Holidays!

2011-12-10T22:27:00.000-05:00

While I usually take a serious look at the sports world here at The Voice of Sport, every now and then, things can get a little silly! You have to take a moment and have a little fun once in a while to recharge your batteries. So, having said that, what kind of fun do I like to have here at TVOS? Well, I try my best to entertain pitcher, best selling author and Garfoose creator Dirk Hayhurst - and make him laugh while I am doing it!

The Garfoose is a half-moose / half-giraffe, fire breathing, wi-fi enabled, magical, mystical creature. If you have followed Dirk on Twitter or visited his website, you'll know all about the Garfoose. If you are hearing about this wonderful creature for the first time, I suggest you read all about the Garfoose at Dirk's site. While you're at Dirk's website, I highly recommend that you also pre-order his new book Out of My League - trust me, you will love it!

Perhaps it is because I have interviewed Dirk a few times, but I have been very fortunate to have a Garfoose visit me from time to time. He is a Garfoose that strayed from the magical baseball groves years ago, becoming a multi-billionaire as a corporate raider in Toronto and throughout the business world. It is always a treat when he drops by for a visit! "Business Garfoose" has gone shopping in Toronto, he has travelled to Parliament Hill in Ottawa and visited Ottawa's Museum of Nature too. It's funny, considering he is a multi-billionaire, you'd think he'd have more than one suit and a better pair of shoes, but hey, he didn't get rich spending money.

We never know when "Business Garfoose" will appear and this evening he dropped by to do some holiday baking. Luckily, my wife was home and documented yet another "Business Garfoose" adventure.

"Business Garfoose" Does Some Baking For The Holidays!

"It's mixing time!"

Tom Petty said it best - "The waiting is the hardest part!"

Cookies!!

"One of these cookies is not like the others."

"Wow!! It's a Garfookie!!"

"Remember kids, always clean up
after you bake cookies."

Well folks, there you have it - the latest "Business Garfoose" adventure...

Where will he turn up next?

Are you laughing yet Dirk?

The Voice of Sport Teams Up With Fan-tastic Sports

2011-12-08T15:07:00.001-05:00

NHL Alumni member Peter Ing helps a young friend
at the Canadian Tire NHL Junior Skills in
Ottawa on November 25th
(Photo TVOS)

I am pleased to announce that The Voice of Sport has teamed up with Fan-tastic Sports!

Former Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Peter Ing and his business partner, Bryce Salvador of the New Jersey Devils, operate Fan-tastic Sports - a company that manufactures and distributes innovative hockey training equipment for hockey schools and individual players. When Peter arrived in Ottawa for the Canadian Tire NHL Junior Skills competition, he mentioned that they have created a blog at their XHockey website and offered me the opportunity to write an article each week.

Every Wednesday, I will be sharing a few thoughts from inside the NHL Alumni Association and news from today's NHL.

The first article has been posted - please drop by and take a look!

"Hockey Builds Memories that Last a Lifetime"

NHL Alumni Interview with Peter Ing - The Canadian Tire NHL Junior Skills

2011-11-29T16:18:00.000-05:00

Andrew and Peter at the 2011 NHL Alumni Gala
(Photo copyright TVOS)

In the midst of a cross Canada tour, NHL Alumni member Peter Ing and the Canadian Tire NHL Junior Skills Competition arrived in Ottawa on November 25th at the Nepean Sportsplex. The Canadian Tire NHL Junior Skills events are open to children from the ages of 7 to 12 and provide the opportunity for the participants to test their skills in four events - shooting accuracy, passing accuracy, timed skating and puck control.

Using the innovative XHockey products from Peter’s company, Fan-tastic Sports, the young hockey players are able to track their scores online and see how they compare with other young Canadian hockey players. Those with the best scores in the qualifying events from each city will be invited to Ottawa during the NHL’s All-Star weekend to compete in the grand finale. With stops in 15 Canadian cities, the events will have brought Peter from Vancouver (on October 7th) all the way to St. John’s, Newfoundland (on December 16th) and everywhere in between.

Read my interview with Peter at the NHL Alumni website

Patrick Hoffman's Interview with me, The Voice of Sport

2011-11-15T11:56:00.000-05:00

Visiting with Mr. Hockey, Gordie Howe,
at the 2011 Scotiabank Pro-Am
(Photo TVOS)

Last week, Patrick Hoffman of Kukla's Korner interviewed me to find out how I became a writer and to help shine the spotlight on my work with the NHL Alumni Association.

Ever wondered about how I became a hockey fan? How I became the resident writer for the NHL Alumni Association or who was my favourite interview?
You can find out all those answers and a few more...

Drop by Kukla's Korner and read Patrick's interview with yours truly!

NHL Alumni Interview with Chris Nilan and Stuntman Stu

2011-11-11T16:29:00.000-05:00

Lend your hand
to the Majic 100
No More Bullies campaign
nomorebullies.ca

Speaking out against bullying is not new, as it has been an ongoing problem for children of all ages for many years. Whether it is physical, verbal or cyber bullying, the results are the same. The victims live in a shroud of fear and depression. They are often left feeling isolated and alone, wondering if their anguish will ever end. Finding a solution to bullying has taken on a new sense of urgency in recent years, as a growing number of young people that are being victimized by bullies, like 15-year old Jamie Hubley in Ottawa, believed that their only solution was to take their own lives. The common goal of speaking out about bullying has brought Chris Nilan and Stu Schwartz to the forefront of the discussion, as they help to raise awareness about this complicated subject.

Habs Legend Chris Nilan
(NoMoreBullies.ca)

A Stanley Cup champion in 1986 with the Montreal Canadiens, Chris Nilan is one of the most popular players in the storied history of the illustrious Bleu, Blanc et Rouge. On a team filled with future Hall of Famers, Chris was a fierce competitor that brought toughness and a never-quit attitude to the Canadiens lineup during the 1980’s. While he defended his teammates on a regular basis by dropping the gloves, he was more than a fighter - he was a leader.

Ottawa radio host
Stuntman Stu
(NoMoreBullies.ca)

Stu Schwartz is a popular radio host in Ottawa and if you are familiar with his work on Majic 100, you may know him better by his nickname, Stuntman Stu. While he spends his mornings helping listeners start their day and head off to work, he is also the PA Announcer for the National Hockey League’s Ottawa Senators. A former Montrealer, Stu is very active in the Ottawa community, helping numerous charities and organizations.

Read my interview with Chris and Stu at the NHL Alumni website

NHL Alumni Interview with the 2011 NHLA Man of the Year - Lanny McDonald

2011-11-01T12:20:00.000-04:00

Andrew and Lanny at the 2011 Scotiabank Pro-Am
in Toronto (May 2011)
Photo by TVOS (copyright TVOS)

Every year at their annual Gala Dinner, the NHL Alumni Association honours one of its members as the Man of the Year. The award recognizes an individual who has worked tirelessly in their community and throughout the hockey world assisting those in need, as well as fulfilling the mission of the NHL Alumni Association - helping to grow the game of hockey at all levels.

In previous years, the Man of the Year Award has been presented to some of the greatest players in the long and storied history of the NHL. Hockey legends and ambassadors for the game like Jean Beliveau, Gordie Howe, Johnny Bower and Bobby Hull, to name a few of the past winners. This year was no exception, as the NHL Alumni Association honoured Hall of Famer and Stanley Cup champion, Lanny McDonald.

With his wife Ardell and youngest son Graham in attendance, as well as a room full of friends and NHL Alumni supporters, McDonald was presented the 2011 Man of the Year Award by his long-time friend and former Calgary Flames teammate, Colin Patterson.

Read my interview with the 2011 NHL Alumni Man of the Year, Lanny McDonald

NHL Alumni Interview with Former Maple Leafs Goaltender Paul Harrison

2011-10-26T17:55:00.000-04:00

Making it to the NHL as a player requires a great deal of hard work and dedication to the game of hockey. It is not an easy path and unlike most professions, a life in pro sports is finite. By the time a player reaches his mid-thirties, he must begin to think about finding a new path to follow and contemplate life after hockey. When he left the game, Paul Harrison used all that he had learnt from his life in hockey, and not just his time in the NHL, to embark on a new career path helping his community as a valued member of the Ontario Provincial Police Force.

“It was difficult,” Harrison said of his transition to life after hockey. “I really do credit getting into policing as being a salvation for me. I retired in 1983 and immediately joined the Police Force, which gave me the chance to join a new team. It gave me that same sense of camaraderie and teamwork, so I think it was natural for me to get into policing. It was a challenging time though. You really question all your years of hard work to get to the NHL level because all of a sudden it’s gone.”

“I only played for eight years and certainly didn’t leave the game because I was tired of it,” he said with a laugh. “I couldn’t get anyone to pay me so it was time to find a different line of work.”

Read the full interview with Paul at the NHL Alumni website

The 2011 NHL Alumni Gala and Grapes with the Greats - Interview with Mark Napier

2011-10-18T14:28:00.000-04:00

Mark Napier and Andrew Rodger at the
2011 "Grapes with the Greats"
(Photo by Dianne Rodger, copyright The Voice of Sport)

Every year, the NHL Alumni Association honours individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the hockey community and put forth the extra effort to help grow the game at all levels. On September 26th and 27th, members of the NHL Alumni Association and their supporters gathered in Toronto for the annual NHL Alumni Gala Dinner and Awards, as well as a wine tasting event known as Grapes with the Greats.

With Claude Lemieux and Jeremy Roenick sharing the hosting duties at the Gala Dinner, the 2011 Man of the Year Award was presented to Stanley Cup Champion, Hall of Famer and hockey legend Lanny McDonald. The Keith McCreary ‘7th Man’ Award, which recognizes a person outside of the Alumni Association that has made an exceptional contribution to the game, was presented to Ron MacLean from the CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada. The recipient of this year’s Ace Bailey Award of Courage was Earl Cook. An inspirational young man from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Earl touched many lives before he passed away on September 18th at the age of 23.

I recently spoke with NHL Alumni Executive Director Mark Napier to discuss the events and the honourees. You can read the interview at the NHL Alumni website

NHL Alumni Interview with Ryan VandenBussche

2011-09-30T10:37:00.000-04:00

Every member of the NHL Alumni Association has a unique and inspirational story to tell. Not every player ends his career as a Stanley Cup Champion like Lanny McDonald or Ray Bourque did. Not all careers result in 1,000 games played or 1,000 points scored. For some members of hockey’s greatest family, the journey itself is the victory, and what an incredible journey it is.

Ryan VandenBussche grew up playing hockey in Delhi, Ontario (near Simcoe, Ontario). He enjoyed playing the game and hanging out with his friends on the ice. When he watched NHL games, Wendel Clark was his favourite player because of his mix of talent and toughness. As time went on, Ryan’s skills improved and his passion for the game grew as well. He found himself on the path to becoming a professional hockey player after spending four years in the Ontario Hockey League with the Cornwall Royals, Newmarket Royals and the Guelph Storm.

The Toronto Maple Leafs selected VandenBussche in the eighth round of the 1992 Draft (173rd overall) and he began his career in the American Hockey League when his OHL career concluded. He spent two seasons with the St. John’s Maple Leafs before becoming a member of the Binghamton Rangers, the AHL affiliate of the New York Rangers at the time. It was during the 1996-97 season, his second season in Binghamton, that his hard work and dedication paid off - he received the long awaited call to the NHL. I started our interview by asking Ryan if there is a way to describe the feeling of putting on an NHL jersey for the first time.

Read my interview with Ryan at the NHL Alumni website

NHL Alumni Interview: Laurie Boschman Discusses the Return of the Jets and Ottawa's 20th Anniversary

2011-09-15T10:10:00.000-04:00

The NHL spotlight will shine brightly on two Canadian cities this season. After a lengthy absence, hockey fans in Winnipeg are preparing to welcome back their beloved Winnipeg Jets. Meanwhile, fans in Ottawa will be celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the modern-day Senators. One former NHLer with a strong connection to Winnipeg and Ottawa is NHL Alumni member Laurie Boschman, and he is thrilled for fans in both cities.

During his NHL career, Laurie played for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, Winnipeg Jets, New Jersey Devils and the Ottawa Senators, scoring 229 goals and adding 348 assists in 1,009 games. Selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first round (ninth overall) of the 1979 NHL Draft, he spent three seasons with the Leafs and one full season with the Edmonton Oilers before joining the Winnipeg Jets and becoming an integral part of the franchise. When Boschman arrived in Ottawa at the end of his career to join the expansion Senators, he was named the first captain of the revitalized franchise.

Read my interview with Laurie Boschman at the NHL Alumni Association's website

NHL Alumni Interview With Stanley Cup Champion Ryan Walter

2011-09-13T22:25:00.000-04:00

Whether playing in the NHL, working in the business world or taking on the day-to-day challenges that present themselves, life often tests us with obstacles that must be faced head on and overcome. Through his books, speaking engagements and training seminars, NHL Alumni member Ryan Walter is helping others discover their own leadership potential by sharing the knowledge that made him a success, both on and off the ice.

Selected by the Washington Capitals in the first round (2nd overall) in the 1978 Draft, Walter made his NHL debut during the 1978-79 season and had an immediate impact; scoring 28 goals in his rookie season. The leadership qualities that would help him during his career and throughout his life after hockey were apparent right from the start of his career, as he became the youngest captain in the history of the Capitals franchise in his sophomore season. Ryan wore the “C” in Washington until a blockbuster trade sent himself and teammate Rick Green to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for Rod Langway, Doug Jarvis, Craig Laughlin and Brian Engblom in 1982.

Ryan Walter would finish his career having played 1,003 games over 15 seasons in the league with Washington, Montreal and Vancouver. He retired from hockey after two seasons with his hometown Canucks at the end of the 1992-93 season, but he is best remembered for his time in Montreal wearing the celebrated Bleu, Blanc et Rouge. It was while wearing that legendary jersey that he made two trips to the Stanley Cup Final with the Canadians - winning the Cup in 1986 against the Calgary Flames.

Read the full interview with Ryan Walter, as he reminisces about the '86 Stanley Cup victory with the Montreal Canadians, discusses his work as a keynote speaker and author, as well as his new role as the President and CEO of the AHL's Abbotsford Heat.

NHL Alumni Interview With Former New York Islanders Forward Steve Webb

2011-09-09T12:07:00.000-04:00

On September 19th, NHL Alumni members Steve Webb and Pat LaFontaine will depart from the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto for an epic journey that will see them bike 550 miles in 48 hours to raise money for two worthy charities. Leaving Toronto at approximately 11 am on the 19th, the former Islanders hope to arrive at the NHL Store in New York City two days later.

This is the third time that Webb has taken on the challenge of biking for charity and the first time that Hall of Famer and fellow New York Islanders Alumni member Pat LaFontaine will join him. The charities that will benefit from their extraordinary efforts are Webb’s W20 Foundation and LaFontaine’s Companions In Courage. The W20 Foundation encourages young athletes to learn about being socially responsible and take on active roles in their communities, while the Companions In Courage assists in building interactive playrooms in hospitals, as well as raising much-needed funds for Alzheimer’s and Dementia research.

Read my interview with Steve Webb at the NHL Alumni website

NHL Alumni Interview with Former Calgary Flames Forward Colin Patterson

2011-09-07T15:25:00.000-04:00

Looking back at the Calgary Flames’ rosters during the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, it could be argued that the Stanley Cup would have found a permanent home in Calgary year after year if not for the Edmonton Oilers teams of that era. When speaking with several members of the Flames 1989 Stanley Cup winning team for various NHL Alumni articles, one player that is commonly mentioned as a key contributor to the team’s success and Stanley Cup victory is Colin Patterson.

Earlier this summer, I spoke with Colin for an NHL Alumni Association article about winning the Stanley Cup, the importance of the Alumni Association and his work with Fire Caddy.

Read the full interview with Colin Patterson at the NHLA website

This Month's "Ask the Alumni" Guest - Marty McSorley

2011-08-24T18:33:00.000-04:00

Prior to the 2011 Scotiabank Pro-Am Tournaments in Calgary, Edmonton and Toronto, I was asked to interview several NHLA members for articles that were included in the event programs. One of the players I had the pleasure to speak with was Marty McSorley.

Upon arriving in Toronto for the Pro-Am Tournament, one of the first NHLA members I was introduced to was Marty and I was greeted with a warm smile and a friendly handshake. I was struck by his passion and respect for the game, as well as his desire to help the numerous charities that the NHL Alumni Association supports. When chatting about his young family, Marty's smile grew wider and you could easily see the joy and pride in his eyes. Our conversation put me at ease, helping me feel like one of the guys. It confirmed what I already knew - the NHLA truly is Hockey's Greatest Family! When it came time to write the next instalment of Ask the Alumni, I knew who I wanted to contact.

Read the latest installment of "Ask the Alumni" with Marty McSorley at the NHLA website

You can also follow the NHL Alumni Association on Twitter

AHL Veteran Bryan Helmer Ready to Lead in Oklahoma City

2011-08-22T15:45:00.001-04:00

Bryan Helmer
Oklahoma City Barons
(Steven Christy Photography)

What a difference a year can make!

At this time last year, AHL veteran Bryan Helmer was at his home in Westport, Ontario waiting for a contract offer. He was six points shy of equalling John Slaney’s record for career points scored by a defenseman in the AHL and 18 games away from 1,000 games played. With the support of his wife Pam, he continued to work hard, on and off the ice, confident that his hockey career would continue. It took until January but Bryan’s phone did ring and he found himself a valued member of the Edmonton Oilers AHL affiliate, the Oklahoma City Barons.

As the 2011-12 season approaches, Bryan and his family are off to Oklahoma City to get settled for what will be his 19th season as a professional hockey player. Now the AHL’s all-time scoring leader for defensemen after accumulating 25 points in 42 games last year with the Barons, the three-time Calder Cup champion is ready for the challenges of a new season and unlike last year, his family will be by his side to share in the highs and occasional lows of the 82-game AHL season.

When Bryan joined the Barons last January, he and Pam decided that it would be too difficult to move the entire family mid-season, so he headed off to Oklahoma by himself. With their two children in school, it was the right decision but it was tough for the dedicated Dad to be away from his family and it led to some difficult moments. While we are all aware of the business side of the hockey, sometimes we forget that our favourite players and hockey heroes are husbands and fathers too.

“There were times last year when I was at the hotel after I broke the record and played in my 1,000th game, when I would be sitting there after practise thinking - what am I doing?” Bryan explained. “My kids are at home enjoying themselves and they would call and tell me what was going on in their lives. I wondered if I was doing the right thing. That’s where Pam came in - she was so supportive and has been so supportive throughout my career.”

Speaking with Bryan shortly after he set the record last year, I asked if the reality of his record-breaking accomplishment had set in yet. He said at the time that maybe it would by summer. This time around when we spoke about it, instead of looking back, the competitor that he is, Bryan remains focused on the upcoming season in Oklahoma City.

“I think it is still too soon,” he said. “When I’m done my career and I look back, it will be one of the big highlights, but right now I am still in that ‘what can I do next’ frame of mind. I still want to play the game and I want to win another Calder Cup; so it really hasn’t sunk in. When I talk about the record with people and I say I am the all-time points leader for defenseman, it doesn’t feel like I am. I always think, who me - this kid from Winchester?”

Last season, Bryan joined the Barons in time for what may have been one of the tougher playoff races in the AHL’s recent history. Oklahoma City eventually finished the year fifth in the Western Division with 91 points. As the season came to a close, one day they were in the playoffs and one day they were out - back-to-back losses could have sent them to the bottom of the division, while a winning streak brought the team within reach of the division lead. On the plus side of a lengthy playoff race, it can help bring the team closer together - the common goal of making the playoffs is there to see every day and rally around. With all his experience in the league, I wondered if Bryan had ever been in a race like that before.

“There was only one other time - I was playing in Worcester. I was sent down from St. Louis, we had 16 games left and it was a battle then. We made the playoffs on the last game of the season, but I have never been in a race where if you have a bad weekend, you could go from second place to last place - it was crazy! I have never been in a division where it was that tight from top to bottom.”

“Every game was like a playoff game, so that prepared the guys for the playoffs. That was something I was trying to tell them down the stretch, if we get into the playoffs we could be dangerous because we have already been playing playoff hockey for so long.”

Although the Barons lost in the first round of the playoffs to a very strong Hamilton Bulldogs team, the city rallied around their team and the fan base grew with every victory. The first year in Oklahoma City for the Barons can be considered a success.

“As the season went along, the people that came to the games started talking about us,” Bryan said. “Towards the end of the season, as we were winning, more and more people were coming out. People now know that we’re here and I expect we’ll have even more support this year.”

My conversations with Bryan always provide interesting insights into the world of hockey and being a professional hockey player. Even with all the success he has experienced in the NHL and AHL, he realizes what he needs to work on and strives to improve his game by setting a very important personal goal each season.

“I set a goal but I don’t say ‘I want to score 50 points’ - I just want to be consistent every night,” he said. “In the past, that has been a problem. I would go a month where I played really well and then all of a sudden it starts to go the other way. This past year, I went to Oklahoma and broke the record right away and things were good and all of a sudden things starting going bad for me but I was able to pick it back up just before the playoffs. Over the years, that is what I have tried to do and tell myself - play every game and be consistent every game.”

“I always look at my plus/minus; I always want to be a plus player. I would rather be a plus than get a point sometimes - I guess that’s just the defenseman in me! I feel that if I am even or have a plus, then I have had a good game. I always look at how the team is doing too. If the team is going well, then I think I’m doing well and obviously the other guys are playing well too.”

In a recent interview for the NHL Alumni Association with Kevin Lowe (the legendary Oilers defenseman and their current President of Hockey Operations), we discussed Bryan’s presence in Oklahoma City and the important role he will play as a veteran leader on the team. Lowe said that the coaches in Oklahoma City could not say enough good things about Bryan and he believes that having a good role model for the young defensemen in the organization will help them learn the pro game and take the next step in their careers.

Heading into his first full season with the Barons, Bryan is ready to be that role model and leader. He explained one of the lessons he has learnt during his career - having fun and having the right attitude is a key ingredient to a team’s success.

“There are always young guys coming from junior or college,” he said. “Where they have been the studs, playing 25 or 30 minutes a night and they have been playing in every situation. Then they come to the American Hockey League and they are not always in those situations, so they start to get frustrated. Everyone goes through it - you are starting off at the bottom again and working your way up. You have to prove that you can play and if you go to the rink with a bad attitude, well, it’s not going to work. I tell the guys to have fun when they come to the rink and to work hard. If they do that, things will start to work out for them.”

“It’s all about attitude. If you have the right attitude and you enjoy coming to the rink, if you have fun doing what you are doing, it is going to lead to success. On the three teams that I have been a part of that won a championship that is exactly what happened. Everyone loved coming to the rink and being around each other - that always shows on the ice.”

After struggling in the standings in recent years, the Oilers organization has focused on building through the draft and have become a much younger team. The Barons worked through lots of call-ups last year and they can probably expect the same to occur this season. Players on the Oklahoma City roster will know that working hard may be rewarded with a trip to the NHL. As some of the top prospects get a chance to display their talents in Edmonton, it will provide an opportunity for others to step-up their game in Oklahoma and play a bigger role.

“That’s where the organizational depth comes in; they’ll sign guys that will start in the East Coast League just for that reason. If Edmonton has injuries or they want to check out a young guy, they will call him up and we’ll bring in guys from the East Coast League that can play at our level. It’s unfortunate that this is the way it is - guys that are in the East Coast are good enough to play in the AHL, but because of the organization they are in they end up in the Coast.”

“I think it helps the young guys knowing that they are in the Oilers organization. If things aren't going well in Edmonton, they might get the chance to play in the NHL. Edmonton will want to see how these guys react and that is going to motivate them to play well in Oklahoma City. It helps us out that way but also, it hurts us a bit too. The championship teams I was on had very limited call-ups. We had the same team almost all year and that helped us out a lot with chemistry. Just being around the same guys, you get to know them and have fun at the rink. You also get to know the way they think and what they are going to do on the ice.”

In a recent email exchange to wish each other a happy birthday (I recently turned 37 and Bryan celebrated his 39th birthday in July), we discussed just how time seems to fly by. Didn’t we turn twenty just a few years ago? With three Calder Cups wins, over 1,000 games in the AHL and a record setting career, are there a few more years of hockey ahead of him?

“Yeah! I feel great, my body feels good and I am enjoying myself. I enjoy working out and playing the game. I don’t know how many more teams will give me a chance though,” Bryan said with a laugh. “If things went right, I’d love to play another year or two at least.”

I think I can speak for all hockey fans - we would love to see Bryan play for another year or two in the AHL and I am sure that Barons fans would not mind seeing him add another Calder Cup championship to his résumé.

Have a great season Bryan!

Image Resource:
Steven Christy Photography

Looking Back At The 2011 NHL Alumni Scotiabank Pro-Am In Toronto

2011-07-14T11:37:00.000-04:00

Boston Bruins Legend Rick Middleton and Andrew Rodger
chat during the 2011 Scotiabank Pro-Am
in Toronto

Regular readers will have noticed a lack of new posts over the past few months - After three years of writing almost every day, I am enjoying a nice, relaxing, much-needed break. Summer vacation mode is quickly coming to an end here at The Voice of Sport and new articles will begin appearing on a regular basis in early August.

In the meantime, drop by the NHL Alumni Association's site for a look at my most recent NHLA article:

Looking Back at the 2011 Scotiabank Pro-Am in Toronto

(With quotes from Dino Ciccarelli, Rick Middleton, Kraig Nienhuis and Claude Lapointe)

The Hits Keep Coming - Will the Rome Hit on Horton Bring About Real Change?

2011-06-08T15:09:00.001-04:00

I have received several emails and phone calls regarding my opinion of the Aaron Rome / Nathan Horton hit. During my career as a writer, I have been a strong proponent of stiffer suspensions and the need for hockey players and fans to change their attitudes when it comes to these devastating collisions. I do not advocate taking hitting out of the game, far from it. However, when it comes to head shots, there are no “ifs” anymore.

We know better now.

Much like the law requiring us all to wear a seat belt in our cars, a law that faced fierce opposition when first introduced but has saved countless lives since - when it comes to head injuries, ignorance is not bliss. The research into the long-term effects of head injuries conducted by groups like the Sports Legacy Institute has revealed an abundance of evidence and startling findings. Healthy young men and women, amateur and professional athletes, have had their lives changed forever by head injuries. Anxiety, memory loss, depression, dementia-type illnesses and in some cases, suicide, have been linked to concussions. The chemistry of our most vital organ changed forever in an instant. We can no longer say that we do not know the consequences.

As I have written on numerous occasions, head injuries from sports tend to be classified as either mild or at times as a severe concussion, reported alongside knee, groin or the vague “upper and lower” body injuries. All are significant injuries but not necessarily considered life altering. When the brain loses its ability to function properly, much of who we are is lost, never to return. That is an incredible price to pay for an opportunity to win a league championship.

When an injury of this magnitude happens in a car accident, it is a trauma to the brain, requiring close monitoring and an ample amount of time to heal. We hear all the time in the sports world, especially in hockey, that after a mild concussion a player is feeling better and is ready to return to action; at times, only days after sustaining a head injury. While they may feel better, their brain has not fully healed and studies suggest a minimum 30 days of recovery time is required to avoid a second and more debilitating head injury. Every injury to the brain is different and the amount of time required to recover fully will vary depending on the person and the severity of the injury, but a new minimum standard must be set. It becomes complicated when discussing professional athletes, as millions of dollars are often involved, but it is time to remove the bottom line from the equation, making a player’s life after the game of paramount importance.

I’m not sure the exact intention of the CBC’s new radar stat being used in the playoffs, which is showing players colliding with each other at close to 40 km/hr at times, but it offers some interesting insights. Statistics at the ICBC website (the main insurance provider in British Columbia) reveal that in a car accident at 50 km/hr, a 25-pound child not wearing a seat belt can be thrown forward with the same force as a 1,200-pound baby elephant. Imagine the forces at play when two grown men hurtle towards each other at the blueline. We have seen it numerous times and we now know the unfortunate results.

Much like wearing our seat belts, it may take several years for new rules to be developed and accepted by both the players and the fans but it is time to have a less short-term philosophy here and look at the long-term, bigger picture. While we used to marvel in awe at these devastating hits, now we know better; it is as simple as that. There is a life after hockey and other professional sports and it is time to stop gambling with the future health of our athletes. Perhaps that is the key to a change of attitude.

Matt Carkner and the Winchester District Memorial Hospital Gear Up for the Carkinator Car and Moto Rally

2011-06-01T15:19:00.000-04:00

Matt Carkner (Photo - TVOS)

During his time in the AHL with the Cleveland Barons, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins and Binghamton Senators and now in the NHL with the Ottawa Senators, defenseman Matt Carkner has always been very active in the community. Whether it is working with organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and their Buddy Up campaign or the Capital City Condors, a hockey program for Ottawa children with special needs, he generously gives his time to help others and raise awareness of causes in need of support.

Now it’s time for the Sens Army and local hockey fans to support the rugged defenseman and his hometown of Winchester, Ontario. On June 25th, Carkner will host the 1st Annual Carkinator Car and Moto Rally, a fun-filled day of events to help raise funds for the Winchester District Memorial Hospital Foundation.

Starting at the Winchester Arena at 11 AM on June 25th, participants will head out on a designated route in their cars or on their motorcycles. Completing the car rally will take about 3.5 hours but it is not a race and speed is not the key to winning. There are various events along the route that will factor into your final score. Participating teams pledge to raise a minimum of $500 for the hospital foundation and there is a $50 registration fee, which can count towards your final fundraising total.

“We are trying to get as many people as we can involved,” Carkner said of the Rally. “It’s a neat idea, it’s something new; we brainstormed a few different ideas on what we wanted to do and everyone does golf tournaments so we came up with the idea for the car rally.”

“It is going to be a good, fun family day. It’s kind of like a scavenger hunt - there will be clues to help you get to where you need to go and the challenges at each of the pit stops will relate to sports. There will be basketball contests, mini-put challenges and a shootout with Jesse Winchester and me. It is going to be a lot of fun. At the end of the day, there is a big barbeque and face painting for the kids. We are going to make sure there is a lot of entertainment for everyone.”

The focus of the event is having fun while raising much-needed funds for the Winchester District Memorial Hospital Foundation but there are some great rewards for the participants taking part in the rally too. Local businesses, which include Carkner’s Ottawa Senators, have offered tremendous prizes for the fundraisers.

“The first place fundraiser will get a suite for a Sens game next season for 16 guests and a limo ride to and from the game,” he explained. “There is also $1,000 worth of golf passes from Emerald Links, Cloverdale Links and Anderson Links, and $3,000 worth of golf clubs signed by the entire Ottawa Senators team. There are lots of great prizes, those are just a few.”

As the Honorary Chair of the Winchester District Memorial Hospital Foundation, Carkner is hoping to shine the spotlight on the important work done at the hospital, while area residents, friends and fans explore his hometown of Winchester. The Carkinator Car and Moto Rally will be a great way to see a beautiful part of Ontario and learn more about the region. Having a world-class hospital in the area, which is also a rural teaching hospital affiliated with 14 universities and colleges, is vital to the health and well-being of Winchester area residents. Whether it is a medical emergency or long-term care situation, the ability to treat patients close to home saves lives and helps to ease the stress during a difficult situation for the patients and their families.

“We are hoping to have quite a few locals from the Winchester area but it would be neat to have some Sens fans come out to see what Winchester is all about while we’re supporting a great hospital. It is very important to have the Winchester Hospital in the area for all the people that may be on dialysis or need cancer treatments.”

“It’s very valuable to have a hospital in the community and we are hoping to keep it going throughout the years so we do not lose these treatment options and fundraising is a big part of that for sure! The Winchester Hospital serves a big area and it’s great for the whole community.”

Having spoken with Matt a few times about his work with the Capital City Condors, I had to ask, where did the name The Carkinator come from?

“I had that nickname about ten years ago. It stuck around for a while, then it went away and now I guess it’s coming back,” The Carkinator said with a laugh. “The organizers saw the name, I’m not sure where, but they loved it and we thought it would be appropriate for a car rally.”

A true role model, Matt continues to lead by example with his hard work and his generous spirit. Now it is our turn Sens fans - it is time to return the favour by supporting Matt and the Winchester District Memorial Hospital Foundation.

Make a donation and support Matt and Kary Carkner’s Team Carkinator

You can register your own team in the Carkinator Car and Moto Rally

Learn more about the Winchester District Memorial Hospital Foundation and all the great work they do by visiting the WDMHF website

A Lifetime of Memories from the 2011 NHL Alumni Scotiabank Pro-Am in Toronto

2011-05-08T14:00:00.001-04:00

Since November, when I started in my role as the resident writer for the NHL Alumni Association, I have had the pleasure of interviewing some of the game’s greatest players - it is an honour and a privilege to assist the NHLA and its members to promote their businesses and charitable work. This past weekend I was invited to attend my first NHLA event, the 2011 Scotiabank Pro-Am in Toronto.

The Scotiabank Pro-Am brings together amateur hockey teams and the NHLA for a great weekend of hockey to raise money for the Gordie and Colleen Howe Fund for Alzheimer’s research at Baycrest. Participating teams raise money for the foundation and then draft NHLA members onto their teams. It is a wonderful and inspiring event that has raised over $16 million in six years to assist in the much-needed research at Baycrest.

Looking back on the past few days, there are too many stories to tell (and some that I cannot tell) but I must say that riding on the bus with the Alumni members to and from the Draft Party is a memory I will never, ever forget. Sitting next to three-time Stanley Cup champion Mike Krushelnyski on the bus and having him call me “rookie” was a dream come true! One guest at the Draft Party saw that I was with the NHLA and wanted an autograph. When I said, “I’m the alumni writer not one of the players” they decided maybe they didn’t need an autograph after all - it was hilarious!

Having breakfast with Dave Schultz, Bryan Trottier, Laurie Boschman, John Anderson, Danny Gare and Marty McSorley was another moment to remember and cherish. As was meeting Brad Marsh, the President of the Ottawa Senators Alumni Association and mentioning to him that we have a shared connection - the Dawson City Nuggets. I also had the opportunity to chat with Lanny McDonald, Georges Laraque and Claude Lemieux to thank them in person for taking part in my “Ask the Alumni” series. It was a great feeling to be able to shake their hand and say thank you.

All of the NHL Alumni members at the event went out of their way to make me feel like one of the guys and thank you just does not seem like enough. I started the event as the “new guy” but left Toronto with many new friends and I will be forever grateful to them all for being so welcoming.

Mr. Hockey and The Voice of Sport
(Photo - TVOS)

On Friday afternoon, I sat and spoke with Mr. Hockey himself, watching him sign a copy of the event program that contains several of my articles. I know my job is writing but there really are no words to describe meeting Gordie Howe! To sit and chat with one of the greatest players in the history of the game, where would I begin?

The motto of the NHL Alumni Association is “Hockey’s Greatest Family” and I can honestly say from personal experience that it is indeed a great family and I am so proud to be part of it and to help raise awareness of the organization and all of their great work. A very special thank you to NHLA Executive Director Mark Napier, as well as Dylan Wade, Carly Napier, Debbie Sittler and Wendy McCreary for the invitation and supporting my work as a writer for the NHLA. I must also thank Sunny Pathak and everyone from Baycrest for including my work in the event program - it was an honour to assist in such a wonderful event.

For more information on the NHL Alumni, their members, my articles and all of the great work they do in so many communities, visit their website (nhlalumni.net) or follow them on Twitter (twitter.com/nhlalumni). You can also learn more about the great work at Baycrest by visiting their site (Baycrest.org).

Talking with Lanny McDonald at the 2011 Scotiabank Pro-Am
(Photo - TVOS)

Exchanging business cards with Stanley Cup Champion
Colin Patterson
(Photo - TVOS)

Mark Napier waits to take a shift during the 2011 Pro-Am
All-Star game
(Photo - TVOS)

Hanging out with NHL Alumni member Claude Lapointe
(Photo - TVOS)

Interviewing Hall of Fame member Dino Ciccarelli
(Photo - TVOS)

Georges Laraque watches the action during the 2011
Pro-Am All-Star game
(Photo - TVOS)

Thanking Claude Lemieux for taking part in my
"Ask the Alumni" series
(Photo - TVOS)

The 1st overall pick in the 2011 Pro-Am Draft
Montreal Canadiens legend Chris Nilan
(Photo - TVOS)

Wrapping up an interview with another hockey legend!
NY Rangers and Boston Bruins forward
Rick Middleton
(Photo - TVOS)

Dylan, Andrew and Sunny at the 2011 Pro-Am
(Photo - TVOS)

Mr. Hockey signing autographs!
(Photo - TVOS)

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Are the Buffalo Sabres Still the Underdogs?

2011-04-18T15:24:00.000-04:00

Buffalo Sabres Defenseman
Tyler Myers
(Photo - TVOS)

Coaches will say that the key to victory in the NHL playoffs is earning a split in the two road games to start off a series. After earning the split in Philadelphia, the Buffalo Sabres head home for tonight's game with the advantage of playing in front of the home crowd, having the reigning Vezina Trophy winner Ryan Miller in their goal and Brian Boucher, not Sergei Bobrovsky starting in goal for the Flyers.

Do the Sabres have the advantage in their first round match-up against the Flyers?

Read about the Sabres and Flyers series at The Hockey Writers

Coyotes or Jets? TVOS Presents: Glendale - The Musical!

2011-04-15T12:16:00.000-04:00

Amidst radio reports from Toronto that the Phoenix Coyotes are once again all but assured of landing in Winnipeg, possibly becoming the Manitoba Jets as soon as the current NHL playoffs conclude, I put forth this question, should we consider renaming this franchise The Vikings? After all, whether the team stays in the desert or heads back to the Canadian Prairies, when the story of this franchise is explained to future generations there will be more layers to this tale than a Norse saga.

Seriously though, could a Hollywood scriptwriter come up with a more convoluted tale than what we have witnessed for the past several years when it comes to the Jets/Coyotes/Jets franchise? Of course, if it is to be successful at the box office, this saga should be written as a musical with big-name stars in every role.

Casting ideas: Perhaps Patrick Stewart could play The Commissioner and Colm Feore, a masterful actor, should be considered for the role of the Prominent Real-Estate Developer. Larry David could play the part of the Reluctant Owner and any of Hollywood’s leading men could be cast as Hero 1, 2 and 3, the potential buyers. To add some vocal range to the cast and perhaps add a love triangle to the plot, Alanis can play the role of the Canadian Billionaire, with Mel Brooks taking on the role of Glendale. Legendary Canadian Anne Murray will star as the Canadian Prairies and to mix things up, how about casting William Shatner as the Taxpayer Watchdog.

TVOS Presents: Glendale - The Musical!

A prominent real-estate developer wants to build up an area in the city of Glendale. He brings his reluctant partner with him from what could have been a successful venture in Scottsdale, Arizona for their hockey franchise to an area approximately an hour away from the team’s existing fan base. Upon convincing Glendale to borrow money and finance a new arena, he sells his shares of the team to his partner, who purchases the franchise for fear of losing his initial investment completely. The Westgate area is never fully developed, leaving the city searching for the tax revenue it was promised and the reluctant partner begins pouring money into the franchise.

The economy begins to struggle and fearing for his own business, the once reluctant partner, tired of pouring money into his recently acquired hockey team, finds a willing buyer - a Canadian billionaire prepared to move the team to a cooler climate in a hockey market that is heating up. After dropping the entire mess of a situation into bankruptcy court, the Canadian billionaire offers twice what the franchise is actually worth, and a handsome payment to Glendale for their troubles, but the team will be on the move - that is a certainty.

Enter the league Commissioner from stage left... The team can work where it is and in fact, since we have already been supporting the franchise, we actually have control of the team; it should never have entered into bankruptcy in the first place. We, the league sings, have a long list of potential owners ready to keep the team where it is. We will in fact purchase the team with the promise to keep it where it is for at least one year - as long as Glendale agrees to pay for our losses.

All the while, the fans of the struggling franchise are left wondering why they should support a team that may no longer belong to them. While the product on the ice continues to excel, the losses mount - another $30 million this year, adding to the estimated $300 million the team has already lost. One owner arrives on the scene but the city will not renegotiate the lease for their facility to his liking - he exits stage right. Other owners arrive on the scene but they too fail to find a solution to the lease issue and sing their way off stage. Finally, a hero emerges to save everyone from this embarrassing situation. He will gladly purchase the team, but not with his own money.

Originally, the price tag offered up by the Canadian billionaire was in the range of $240 million, well above the actual value of the franchise, a completed sale would have increased the value of every franchise in the Commissioner’s league. Now the league needs $175 million to cover the price of the team and their losses. Our new hero sees the team’s value closer to the $75 million mark at this point; the business has been devalued due to the constant threat of relocation. As long as the city can borrow another $100 million and hand over control of the arena, he will gladly keep the team where it is for years to come.

Cue villainous organ music... Enter the taxpayer watchdog, saying that the $100 million loan is actually a subsidy, which is against the laws of the state and they will tie the whole process up in court for years to come if the proposed sale goes through. All parties involved are left in a staring contest. Who will blink first? Who has the better lawyers? What about the fact that this team’s fans are being held hostage through this whole process? Will the soundtrack for Glendale - The Musical! hit number one on the Billboard Charts? All are very important questions, especially the one about how the soundtrack will sell...

All the while, the loving city that has watched its team wander in the desert for 16 years is ready to welcome them home to the Canadian Prairies. They say you cannot go home again but that is exactly what they hope will happen. Like a blast of arctic air during a prairie winter, they are ready to whisk their team from the dry, dusty desert and bring them back to the land of the surging dollar and its robust economy. We have loved and lost they sing, we are ready to love again. It is not just any team that we want back; it is our team that we want back. We are ready to hang our portrait of the Queen once again and throw millions of dollars at the merchandise vendors and season ticket salesmen. Just bring our team home they sing, that is all we ask in exchange for a permanent role in Glendale - The Musical!

There is only one problem, the main cast is not done with their staring contest. No one has blinked yet...

Coyotes or Jets? No one seems to know - the production team is still in the process of casting Act 1. Perhaps, in a few weeks time, we will learn the answer when Act 2 of Glendale - The Musical! is released.

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Flyers and Sabres - Bobrovsky vs. Miller

2011-04-13T16:49:00.000-04:00

Ryan Miller could be the difference in the
first round match-up between the
Sabres and the Flyers
(Photo - TVOS)

Once again, the Philadelphia Flyers will rely on an unproven goaltender in the playoffs, as rookie Sergei Bobrovsky will carry the load in the first round match-up against the Buffalo Sabres. For Buffalo, they can enter the series with the confidence that comes with having one of the best in the business in their goal - 2010 Vezina Trophy winner Ryan Miller.

Miller finished the season recovering from an "upper body" injury but Jhonas Enroth helped secure seventh place in the Eastern Conference. The Flyers have last year's playoff hero Michael Leighton on the roster as an insurance policy. If Miller is not 100% and Bobrovsky stumbles out of the gate, we could see a battle between Enroth and Leighton before the series finally concludes.

Read about the first round goaltending match-up between Bobrovsky and Miller at The Hockey Writers

Curling Is On The Rise In The Ottawa Valley

2011-04-10T11:06:00.000-04:00

This article first appeared in the April 2011 edition of Main Street and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper.

While we often refer to hockey as our unofficial national sport, millions of Canadians enjoy the sport of curling. Whether they are participating as members of their local clubs or watching the Brier, the Scotties Tournament of Hearts or the World Championships on television, there is no doubt that curling has captured the hearts of Canadians. Lachute resident Martin Cavanagh, a Level 3 high performance curling coach, shared some time with Main Street to discuss his passion for the sport and the benefits of curling.

“The Ottawa Valley area has produced many champions in the last 40 to 50 years,” Cavanagh explained. “We have a very enriched record but in the last 15 to 18 years interest has fallen. However, since the Olympics last year, the phone has been ringing off the hook at the Canadian Curling Association with the amount of people wanting to start curling. The Olympics were a major boost for the world of curling and in the next 15 to 18 years, interest in the sport will be on an upward swing.”

“My focus now is to rebuild the link from the past in the Ottawa Valley, to encourage and promote curling in this area. This past winter, with the help and support of local schools and the Ottawa Valley Curling Association, of which Lachute and Brownsburg belong, we began a Learn to Curl program. We are showing the children in the elementary schools how to curl and we have an accredited program approved by the Ministry of Education that we hope to have in the physical education program starting in the fall. Getting the schools involved over the next four to six years, we should see some positive results. People are starting to see that it is fun to play the sport - it’s looking very, very good for curling in our area.”

As our lives become increasingly intertwined with mobile devices, “must-see” television shows and video games, curling is an inexpensive option for parents with young families. Curling provides participants the opportunity to get active and unlike many other sports, age is not a factor. Whether you are nine years old or ninety, the sport can provide a lifetime of fun and friendships.

“One of the most important things at the club level is the social aspect,” Cavanagh said. “We’re not generating Brier champions by curling every Thursday night but we are building bonds, social structures and a community of support.”

“Curling is a sport that everyone can enjoy; it is a safe physical sport that you can enjoy at any age. You can play at your level for 30, 40 or 50 years and if you want to excel, if you are a competitive person, then there is every opportunity to do that as well. I don’t know of any other sport where you can do that - it can be whatever you want it to be. Kevin Martin, a World Champion curler, is 46 years old and the youngest guy on his team is in his twenties. There is no other sport where you have that mix. It’s a fantastic sport!”

Getting active while having fun and making new friends - is there a better combination? Join in on the fun and give curling a try! For more information on curling in our area, visit the Ottawa Valley Curling Association’s website: ovca.com

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Bryan Murray Signs Three Year Extension

2011-04-09T14:09:00.000-04:00

Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk arrived in the nation's capital this week to take care of some business and put to rest some of the questions surrounding the future of his organization. Current General Manager Bryan Murray will continue reshaping the franchise for three more years after signing an extension with the club on Friday.

Read about Bryan Murray's new deal at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Interview With Former Ottawa Senators Forward Shean Donovan

2011-04-05T18:22:00.000-04:00

This summer, Ottawa area children will have a tremendous opportunity to learn from one of the NHL’s greatest skaters. Former Ottawa Senators forward Shean Donovan will host a hockey camp for children ages 6 to 12, sharing the knowledge that helped him excel in the league for 15 seasons. The camp will focus on on-ice and off-ice training for Peewee and Bantam players, with two sessions in July at the Beckwith Recreation Complex in Carleton Place, Ontario. The first session runs from July 18th to the 22nd and the second session is July 25th to the 29th.

In a recent conversation, Donovan spoke about his hockey camps and passed along a few of his training tips, as well as sharing some of his highlights and memories from his career in the NHL.

Read the interview with Shean Donovan at The Hockey Writers

Will Arena And Stadium Funding Become An Election Issue?

2011-04-02T10:54:00.000-04:00

This article was first published in the April 1st edition of Main Street Magazine and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper or sign up and have Main Street Magazine delivered right to your inbox.

(Photo - TVOS)

The world of sports and politics do not often appear in the same column but as we head for the voting booths once again on May 2nd, it will be interesting to see whether using tax dollars to fund new arenas and stadiums gains any traction and becomes an election issue. While it is unlikely to become a national discussion on par with health care, unemployment or economic recovery, it could become a billion dollar expenditure when the dust finally settles on this discussion and the concrete begins to be poured. The keyword here is “discussion” - there should be one before our elected representatives borrow money to finance arenas and stadiums.

In previous columns and in a recent appearance on CBC News Now, I discussed the importance of the Quebec Nordiques returning to the National Hockey League. Replacing a struggling franchise with a healthy and well-supported Quebec City franchise makes sense for the overall health of the league. It will increase the league’s revenues and increase the overall value of the other teams. Having said that, should new arenas receive public funds as is the case in Quebec City where municipal and provincial tax dollars have already been committed to pay for the new Colisee.

If you are a Montreal Canadiens fan in the Laurentians or not even remotely interested in professional sports at all, how do you feel about your tax dollars being spent on a new arena you will most likely never set foot in? Perhaps you are struggling to build your own business during these difficult economic times, it would be fair to ask, “Where is the helping hand I desperately need?”

These venues are no longer single-use facilities; they host concerts, conventions and special events. There is money to be made if it is used to its full capacity. If a business or single-owner can afford an NHL team, they can afford to build their own arena as well - reap the rewards or take the loss, your business savvy will ultimately decide whether it was a successful venture. When using public funds the question that must be asked is, will this project be for the greater good? Is a new arena or stadium more important than making much-needed repairs to the local schools or hiring new doctors for an overworked health care system? It is a valid question, especially at election time.

So, why should this become a Federal election issue? It is not only Quebec City looking for funding, Regina hopes to build a new stadium that would be home to the CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Edmonton Oilers are looking for a new home to replace the aging Rexall Place. It will not be long before the Calgary Flames are ready to leave the Scotiabank Saddledome or the remaining Canadian NHL and CFL teams need an upgrade on their current venues. If you open the door to fund one project, the door opens to all these other projects. One or two hundred million dollars for a Quebec City arena could easily become a billion dollar investment by the Federal Government when all is said and done. Ask your local candidates for their opinion, start the discussion, it is one worth having.

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Jason Spezza Taking On Leadership Role In Ottawa

2011-03-30T16:25:00.000-04:00

Ottawa Senators centre Jason Spezza is emerging as a leader on a Senators squad that became much younger at the trade deadline and his overall game has greatly improved. Since he returned to the lineup from a shoulder injury on February 5th, Spezza has 8 goals and 20 assists in 25 games - leading by example for the young guns from Binghamton auditioning for a spot on Ottawa's roster next season.

Spezza's winning percentage in the faceoff circle ranks 10th overall in the NHL and he is taking a regular shift killing penalties. He is a key component for the franchise's future success - while he was out of the lineup Ottawa's win/loss record was 1-11-3.

Read about Spezza's new role with the Senators at The Hockey Writers

Dawson City Nuggets and Ottawa Senators Alumni: Interview with Nuggets' Player Troy Suzuki

2011-03-29T18:38:00.000-04:00

Troy Suzuki at the McBride Museum
(Photo - Don Reddick)

A few weeks ago, award-winning author Don Reddick shared his thoughts with The Voice of Sport about his trip to the Yukon for the much-anticipated re-match between the Dawson City Nuggets and the Ottawa Senators Alumni as part of the Hockey Day in Canada festivities. Dawson City Nuggets player Troy Suzuki took part in the games and provided a firsthand account of all the action.

The original invitation for the Senators to travel to Dawson City was made by the Nuggets 106 years ago after their famous Stanley Cup challenge against the Ottawa Silver Seven. After losing to the Silver Seven, the man that organized the challenge, Joe Boyle, suggested the outcome would be different if Ottawa travelled to Dawson City. He offered to create a cup that was to be made of solid gold, hoping to entice the Ottawa hockey players into making the trip north.

While it took over a century for Ottawa to make the trip and the recent games were not for the Stanley Cup, a scaled down version of the Klondike Cup went to the victors. Ottawa won the games in Dawson City and Whitehorse but the event was not about who won or lost, it provided the two northern cities an opportunity to shine brightly in the national spotlight.

“The game was huge for the town,” Suzuki explained. “I think any time real NHL players come to town it is big, but this had a real buzz that made everyone want to take part. From the sponsors pouring in, to all the volunteers and people clamouring for tickets, even people who had no interest in hockey were excited. I think the historic nature of the game was important. What little town happens to have a Stanley Cup Challenge in their history? For that brief time I think we felt connected to the bigger world out there, which usually is very far away.”

“There were five or six dog teams to give the Senators players rides and the sun was out - it was one of those times when the town comes together and charms not only the visitors but themselves as well, when we all go, ‘Ah, okay now I remember why I live here.”

In 1997, the modern day Nuggets travelled to Ottawa, re-enacting the original trip from Dawson City to Ottawa. Travelling by dog sled out of the North, then by ship to Vancouver and riding the rails across Canada, following in the footsteps of the 1905 journey. Ottawa Sun columnist Earl McRae and Reddick accompanied the Nuggets and chronicled the journey - McRae in the Sun and Reddick in his book, The Trail Less Traveled. The two games during the Hockey Day festivities provided an opportunity for many of the participants of the ‘97 trip to reunite and reminisce about their shared experience - a remarkable journey that forged a special bond.

Troy Suzuki on the shores of the famous
lake Laberge during the 1997 trip to Ottawa
(Photo - Don Reddick)

“There aren’t that many of the ‘97 team left in Dawson but the ghosts of that trip came flooding back once I got to Whitehorse and saw the old faces; Kevin Anderson, Pat Hogan, Dale Kulych, Brian Gudmundson, Don Reddick and Earl McRae. Whitehorse put on a terrific show as well, with an amazing display of Yukon hockey history at the McBride museum. I was transported back to sitting around many a lounge having beers with the guys on the trip. Memories of the bush travel part of the trip came flooding back too and I had a renewed admiration for Don and Earl to have jumped in cold ‘literally’ into that trip. The Dawson/Whitehorse leg was the heart of that trip for most of us.”

“Flying back to Dawson with the Sens was nice as we got to play host and show off our town,” Suzuki said. “It made me think of the distance, culturally and geographically, between our two worlds. Dawson is very sleepy in the winter, the end of the road frontier town. I think the Sens got a much better idea and a new appreciation for what we went through getting to Ottawa.”

Suzuki was too young to play in the ‘97 game but made the entire journey from Dawson City to Ottawa, capturing every moment for his film Live From Moccasin Square Gardens. It was a new experience for Troy to take to the ice against the Senators in the history-making games. I asked him if it was easier to play in 2011 or to watch in 1997.

“It’s a lot easier to play in the game than to watch I’ll tell you that much,” he said. “I remember being so discombobulated at the Ottawa game I was almost sick with nerves and excitement - it was very hard to focus on my video and camera work. I don’t regret not playing in the Ottawa game though, as I knew I hadn’t been in town long enough to warrant inclusion on that team. I think of the video I came up with as a gift to the team, the town and Territory; I’m happy I could contribute in that way. Both games up here were fun, I couldn’t stop smiling, but I didn’t think of it as making Yukon history, more like a fun exhibition and a tip of the hat to that history.”

The scores of the two-game series in 1905 heavily favoured the Silver Seven (9-2 and 23-2) and while the ‘97 team narrowed the gap (the final score was 18-0) the team of recreational players from Dawson City are still looking for their first win against the former NHL players. The first game in Whitehorse ended by a 10-1 score, with Kevin Anderson scoring the first Dawson goal against Ottawa in 106 years and the home team dropped the second game in Dawson City by a 12-4 margin.

“The Senators are great showmen; they let us in the game so it was entertaining to the fans. It felt like they had a lot more gears than the one they were showing, they just drifted to the open ice and cruised, waiting for a pass. Their passing was beautiful, tape-to-tape, saucer passes - our passing was awful. I once suggested to our old-timer league that we should have a practice and work on our passing, I was pretty much laughed out of the room. Rick Smith from the Senators would chat during the play. He would give us lots of room to skate and even advised me what to do - go wide, round the net.”

As we venture further and further into a world that seems to revolve around a 24-hour news cycle, it is refreshing to see the Dawson City Nuggets and the Ottawa Senators Alumni not only keeping history alive but also adding to the rich legacy of the sport.

Thank you Troy!

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Have A Question For Marty McSorley?

2011-03-24T18:39:00.000-04:00

Since November, The Hockey Writers and the NHL Alumni Association have teamed up for a monthly series called Ask the Alumni. It provides us with the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the business ventures and charitbale work done by the NHL Alumni members while reminiscing about some of hockey’s greatest moments. It also gives our readers the opportunity to be a part of the interviews – each month, a different NHL Alumni member will join us here at The Hockey Writers for an interview and THW readers provide some of the questions.

So far, the Ask the Alumni series has interviewed Lanny McDonald, Georges Laraque, Theo Fleury and Claude Lemieux. This month's guest is two-time Stanley Cup champion Marty McSorley.

If you have a question for Marty, send it to thwnhlalumni@gmail.com by April 11, 2011.

You can find all the previous Ask the Alumni interviews at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Craig Anderson Signs 4-Year Extension With Ottawa

2011-03-22T12:54:00.000-04:00

Ottawa Senators General Manager Bryan Murray traded for Craig Anderson before the NHL trade deadline to take a closer look at the pending unrestricted free agent. Anderson has impressed his new team and their fans, posting a 6-4-1 record, a 2.11 goals against average and a .938 save percentage.

The former Avalanche goaltender has been equally impressed with his new team and Monday morning, Murray announced that they had agreed on a new deal that will keep the goaltender in Ottawa for four more years.

Read about Anderson's contract extension at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Interview with Ottawa Senators Defenseman Matt Carkner

2011-03-19T20:12:00.000-04:00

Ottawa Senators Defenceman And
Capital City Condors Volunteer
Matt Carkner
(Photo TVOS)

Three years ago Jim and Shana Perkins started the Capital City Condors, a hockey team for Ottawa area children with learning or physical disabilities. Before the Condors arrived in the nation's capital, children with special needs could only watch their brothers and sisters playing hockey - forced to sit on the sidelines with no team to call their own.

In that first season, Jim and Shana welcomed three children into the Capital City Condors family. Three years later, through the efforts of their tremendous volunteers and sponsors the program has grown to forty players with a waiting list that continues to grow. One of the dedicated supporters of the Capital City Condors program spoke with The Hockey Writers this week – Ottawa Senators defenseman Matt Carkner.

Read about the Condors and my interview with Matt Carkner at The Hockey Writers

Time For Change In The NHL?

2011-03-18T12:16:00.001-04:00

This article was first published in the March 18th edition of Main Street Magazine and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper or sign up and have Main Street Magazine delivered right to your inbox.

*Because of publishing deadlines, this article was sent in to Main Street before the General Managers meeting - the league has taken a few small steps towards protecting their players.

For most of last week, The National Hockey League was the top news story in Canada and the United States and once again, it was for all the wrong reasons. After yet another on-ice incident that resulted in a severe injury, the league’s inability to change their attitude towards dangerous plays has come under fire from fans and for the first time, a growing list of their corporate sponsors.

At this point, I am sure everyone is quite aware of Zdeno Chara’s hit on Max Pacioretty - the debate has been quite heated about Chara’s actions. The point of this week’s column is not to re-evaluate the league’s failure to suspend the Boston Bruins defenceman, but rather the NHL’s response to these situations; the “everything is okay, please don’t look behind the curtain” attitude.

Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed regret that an injury occurred in the Boston - Montreal game, but failed to say that this type of injury is becoming too frequent in his league and they are prepared to make changes. Instead, he made this comment after an appearance at the US Capitol Building.

“It was a horrific injury, we’re sorry that it happened in our fast-paced physical game, but I don’t think whether or not supplemental discipline was imposed would change what happened and in fact the people in the game who I have heard from almost to a person ... believe that it was handled appropriately by hockey operations.”

The league needs to acknowledge that something has gone wrong - it will not change what happened, but it could keep it from happening repeatedly. After several of these on-ice incidents, Matt Cooke’s hit on Marc Savard or Chara’s hit on Pacioretty to name just a few, the league has stated that no rule violations actually took place, or that they were satisfied with the punishment handed down by the referees during the game. That is small consolation for players like Savard (his career is most likely over) or Pacioretty (whether he ever returns to the league is also in question). It is time for the league to implement a rule similar to the National Football League’s “conduct detrimental to the league” policy.

After several off-field incidents involving their players, the NFL adopted this new rule. In effect, it is a rule to punish players for making the league and all of its players look bad. I called for such a rule to come into being after Cooke’s vicious hit on Savard. In Chara’s case the league could say, “Perhaps you didn’t mean to hurt your opponent, but the fact remains you did something extremely dangerous and tarnished the image of the league - here’s a four game suspension.”

It seems like a simple solution but unfortunately, it is a long and drawn out process when it comes to changes in the league. The General Managers meet to discuss these issues and then any possible rule changes are off to the league’s competition committee and the NHL Players’ Association. If you are looking for immediate change, you will be disappointed. We may see new rules in place for next season, but when the league’s motto is “everything is okay”, it is quite possible that the status quo will remain next year.

In a high impact sport like hockey, head injuries and concussions will happen; it will be difficult to eliminate them completely. The question the league must look at moving forward - can they do something to limit the risks their players face when they step on the ice and can they send a clear message to players when they go too far? As the race for playoff positions heat up and then the battles for a trip to the Stanley Cup begin, it is very likely we will witness another injury of this magnitude. Until there is real change, we will not be talking about the Vancouver Canucks and their healthy lead in the standings, the fine play of Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price or the Toronto Maple Leafs making a late-season surge for the playoffs, we will be discussing another career in jeopardy.

Dawson City Nuggets and the Ottawa Senators Alumni: Interview with Award-Winning Author Don Reddick

2011-03-16T13:11:00.001-04:00

A shorter version of this article first appeared in the March 2011 edition of Main Street and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper.

Don Reddick

Last month, the CBC celebrated their annual Hockey Day in Canada with a thirteen-hour broadcast, which was hosted by the city of Whitehorse. Part of the weeklong festivities was a re-match 106 years in the making; the Ottawa Senators finally arrived in the Yukon for two games against the Dawson City Nuggets. Award-winning author Don Reddick was part of the 1997 re-enactment of the original 1905 Dawson City Stanley Cup challenge, which he chronicled beautifully in his book, The Trail Less Traveled, and he shared some of his thoughts on the games and the Hockey Day in Canada events with The Voice of Sport.

“I come to this from more of a historical angle, I always looked at these games, particularly the Dawson game, in historical context,” explained Reddick. “After the 1905 games, Joe Boyle, the leader of the Dawson team, challenged the Ottawas to come up to Dawson for a rematch. He promised to make a cup out of solid gold for the event. The players were quoted in Ottawa papers talking about the better team they would put up. So the invitation, after the great, legendary trip and loss, was extended in 1905 and it was 106 years before an Ottawa team responded and traveled up. So this was history to me, real hockey history.”

The original 1905 series resulted in a resounding Ottawa victory; the Ottawa Silver Seven outscored the Nuggets 32-4 in the two-game series. In the 1997 re-enactment, the Senators Alumni team defeated the modern-day Nuggets by a score of 18-0. While the Senators kept their winning streak alive with two more victories this year, the Nuggets had plenty to celebrate on their home ice.

“Kevin Anderson was the first Dawson player to score against Ottawa in 106 years and the place went berserk,” Reddick said. “The whole Anderson story is great. In ‘97, he whiffed on Dawson’s best scoring chance and it haunted him for years. On the way up, he told Gerry Armstrong, the Ottawa goalie, that he was going to score on him this time. In the second period, Kevin had another great chance - and whiffed again! We were going to get on him and then he scored. Brad May (NHL alumni members took part in the Whitehorse game but not the Dawson game the next night) set him up and Kevin snapped the pass into the upper right.”

“Richard Nagano, Dawson’s goalie, was unbelievable. He played a great game and was the number one star for me; but the Ottawas were just too much. It’s fun watching a series of games between amateurs and pros. The Ottawa guys never panic; they never throw the puck away. They see the ice better, its fun to watch.”

Hosting Hockey Day in Canada was an opportunity for the Yukon to shine brightly on the national stage and Reddick explained that there was an air of excitement in the region. Although the main Hockey Day in Canada events took place in Whitehorse and the visit to Dawson City was a short one, the residents and the Senators Alumni embraced the opportunity to witness and take part in the historic re-match.

“Hockey Day couldn’t have picked a better venue for their festival. Because of its relative isolation, its sense of being removed from the rest of Canada, it became even more important. The people were just thrilled with the opportunity to be part of this wonderful event.”

“The Dawson City game was at six and the whole town closed down for the event. Grocery stores closed, everything closed early so people could attend. They gave out Yukon Quest dog race cowbells at the game, so it was loud! After the game, they had a wonderful reception at Diamond Tooth Gerties, where Earl McRae, the Ottawa columnist, gave a complete review of his experiences on the ‘97 re-enactment. Then several of the Senators alumni, Fred and Johnny Barrett, Jean Payette and Noel Price were all dragged up on stage by Diamond Tooth Gertie herself, and made part of the act. I remember most of the alumni being entranced by Dawson, all of them wishing they had more time to spend there and saying how they all planned to return with their wives and families to experience it more thoroughly.”

“It started snowing rather heavily during the evening and into the next day and it was mesmerizing,” Reddick said. “This small, small town, just a few streets really, but unique and friendly and so interesting... all the guys loved the place and wanted to stay longer.”

Reddick’s first book about the Dawson City Nuggets was a work of historical fiction - Dawson City Seven, and he recently announced that the popular book would be re-issued. His connection to the town and the Dawson Nuggets’ story has built friendships that will last a lifetime for the author.

“I love Dawson,” said Reddick. “The whole experience for me of writing Dawson City Seven, participating in the ‘97 re-enactment and then writing The Trail Less Traveled, has made Dawson a pretty special place for me. I walked over to see old friends, saw Dick Van Nostrand at the Downtown Hotel - where the Ottawas stayed - saw old friends who were not playing in the games, Roy Johnson and Dave Millar. Just walking down the streets, seeing the place again and that fast-traveling knowledge that I’d wake up in a couple days and actually wonder if I’d really been there again - it all happens so fast - all good stuff! I love just sitting in the Downtown Hotel and watching the lifestyle; the young guys up for adventure and the old guys, the characters who never left.”

Reddick’s book, The Trail Less Traveled, was front and center throughout the week, as many of the Ottawa players picked up a copy and began to understand the passion for the history of the 1905 journey and the love of the game that inspired the Dawson hockey players to embark on the 1997 re-enactment. If you have read ‘The Trail’, this story is a classic!

“Rick Smith finished reading it on the plane ride from Vancouver to Whitehorse and Rick had a lot to say about it - he had played in the ‘97 game and was interviewed in the book. A great moment occurred in Diamond Tooth Gerties; I was standing with Rick when I spotted Cowboy Smith, the famous dog musher who plays a role in the book standing nearby. Rick had just read about him, took one look, and then strolled right up to him. He had told me that Wayne Cashman of the old Boston Bruins was one of the great hockey characters he had known and when he walked up to Cowboy, a legend and tough character himself, he said, ‘You’re just like Wayne Cashman. You’ve got to meet Wayne Cashman.’ to which Cowboy stared, and replied, ‘Who is Wayne Cashman, and why would I want to do that?’ Great stuff!”

For more information on award-winning author Don Reddick and his marvellous books, visit his website: Don Reddick.com

*Next week at The Voice of Sport - Dawson City Nuggets player Troy Suzuki shares his thoughts on the historic re-match between the Dawson City Nuggets and the Ottawa Senators.

NHL Alumni News at The Hockey Writers: Interview with Former Maple Leafs Goaltender Peter Ing

2011-03-15T17:17:00.000-04:00

NHL Alumni member Peter Ing
(Photo - INGcorporated)

For many young hockey players, the endless dream to one day follow in the footsteps of their hockey heroes and play in the National Hockey League is immeasurable. However, unlike other professions, a career in hockey is finite. When life in the NHL ends, a second life begins. This is a life where new opportunities are discovered and seemingly daunting challenges await. For NHL Alumni member Peter Ing, the same passion, dedication and drive that he applied during his hockey career helped him make the successful transition to life after hockey.

When an injury shortened his career, Ing worked his way up through the ranks of the casino business and soon became an executive. He created INGcorporated, offering his experience and expertise to other companies and individuals, helping them grow their businesses. In 2008, Peter joined New Jersey Devils defenceman Bryce Salvador as a partner in Fan-tastic Sports - designing state-of-the-art hockey training products and interactive equipment.

Read my interview with NHL Alumni member Peter Ing at The Hockey Writers

For more information on the NHL Alumni Association and their members, visit the Alumni's website.

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Anderson and McElhinney - Making A Good Impression in Ottawa

2011-03-13T15:08:00.000-04:00

Ottawa's Newest Goaltender - Curtis McElhinney
(Clydeorama/Flickr)

Several recent articles in the local media referred to Ottawa as the “goalie graveyard”. While it may be hard to argue that fact after the team has worked their way through Dominik Hasek, Martin Gerber, Ray Emery, Alex Auld, Pascal Leclaire and Brian Elliott in recent years, it is somewhat unfair to categorize Ottawa as the place where careers go to die. The goaltending position is a difficult role on any team. Realistically, how many franchises can say they have an elite-level goaltender like Martin Brodeur, Roberto Luongo or Miikka Kiprusoff?

Ottawa's new goaltending duo of Craig Anderson and Curtis McElhinney have made a good impression on Senators fans and more importantly, Ottawa management, as the pending unrestricted free agents audition for new contracts. Anderson is 6-3-0 in nine starts and McElhinney made 34 saves in his Ottawa debut on Friday evening in a 2-1 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Read about Anderson and McElhinney at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Claude Lemieux and Ask The Alumni

2011-03-11T18:08:00.001-05:00

NHL Alumni Member Claude Lemieux
(Photo - NHL Alumni Association)

This month's "Ask the Alumni" guest at The Hockey Writers is four-time Stanley Cup Champion Claude Lemieux.

While Claude’s legendary career may have started quietly with one goal in his first ten NHL games, once the 1986 playoffs began, he and a young goaltender name Roy played integral roles in the run to the 23rd Stanley Cup in the storied history of the Montreal Canadiens. The 20 playoff games in ‘86 foretold his future playoff success, as he scored 10 goals and added 6 assists that year. For the young man from Buckingham, Quebec, winning a Stanley Cup with the Canadiens was a dream come true.

He went on to play 1,215 regular season games with six different teams, scoring 379 goals and 789 points. His 80 career playoff goals ranks ninth on the NHL's all-time list and his 19 game-winning playoff goals are only five goals behind The Great One himself, Wayne Gretzky.

Read the interview with Claude Lemieux at The Hockey Writers

For more information on the NHL Alumni Association, visit their website: NHLAlumni.net

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Senators Fall to 30th Overall

2011-03-06T13:18:00.000-05:00

Craig Anderson has brought stability
since his arrival from Colorado
(Mafue/Flickr)

The arrival of goaltender Craig Anderson brought some much-needed hope to the hockey fans in the nation's capital, but with Edmonton's 5-1 victory over Colorado on Saturday evening, the Senators have officially arrived in 30th place.

It's not all bad though - The young prospects from Binghamton have looked right at home in the NHL, Anderson is proving to be the goaltender that will carry the load until Robin Lehner is ready for the NHL in a few years and 30th place will bring one of the top prospects in this year's NHL draft to Ottawa.

Read about Anderson and the Senators at The Hockey Writers

Image resource: Mafue/Flickr

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Interview With Mark Napier - NHL Alumni Help Celebrate Hockey Day In Canada

2011-03-04T10:37:00.000-05:00

Lanny McDonald, Trevor Linden and Mark Napier
In Whitehorse For Hockey Day In Canada
(Photo John Biehler)

Last month, millions of Canadians tuned in for the CBC’s 11th Annual Hockey Day in Canada broadcast, which was hosted this year by the city of Whitehorse in the Yukon. One of the goals in celebrating the “unofficial” national sport is to grow the game, while exploring the rich history of hockey with segments and inspirational stories from across Canada. Mark Napier, the Executive Director of the NHL Alumni Association, travelled to Whitehorse with several of his fellow alumni members to take part in the festivities and spend time with hockey fans.

Read my interview with Mark Napier at The Hockey Writers

Image Resource: John Biehler

To learn more about the NHL Alumni Association, visit their website: NHLAlumni.net

A New Arena In Quebec City - Will The NHL Be Moving North Again?

2011-03-03T12:28:00.000-05:00

This article was first published in the March 2nd edition of Main Street Magazine and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper or sign up and have Main Street Magazine delivered right to your inbox.

On February 10th, Premier Jean Charest and Regis Labeaume, the Mayor of Quebec City, announced their intention to move forward with their plan for a new arena in Quebec City. The city and the province will share the costs of the estimated $400 million facility, while leaving the door open for contributions from the private sector and the Federal government. With construction set to begin on what is described as an NHL-style arena, the hope is to have the facility completed by the fall of 2015. The question being asked in the provincial capital and across Canada is, “If they build it, will the NHL move in?”

Quebec City’s NHL franchise, the Nordiques, left for Colorado in 1995 and became the Avalanche when the out-dated Colisee could not be replaced with a new arena. All levels of government, as well as the private sector, demonstrated no interest in saving the franchise at the time. What has changed since the Nordiques left town?

Several factors would allow for a successful return to the NHL for Quebec City. The Canadian dollar is much stronger than it was during the mid-90’s when the Nordiques left for Colorado, a factor that has benefited all of the current NHL teams in Canada. Nostalgia is also a key component in this process - the Nordiques have a long and storied history in the provincial capital as a member of the World Hockey Association and the National Hockey League. In early October, more than 50,000 fans gathered for a rally to demonstrate their desire to become an NHL city once again. Corporate support will be essential for the long-term health of the franchise and it appears the business community is prepared to support the reincarnated Nordiques. Hockey fans will certainly reward any business that helps bring the NHL back to the provincial capital.

The fact that the Southern expansion by the NHL has not taken root in certain cities must also be considered. While the league would never come out and say a particular franchise is struggling, there are several franchises experiencing hard times financially. Part of NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman’s legacy in the league is his expansion into non-traditional markets in the United States. While it has been a success in places like Raleigh (the Carolina Hurricanes) and Tampa Bay (the Lightning), the Atlanta Thrashers and the Florida Panthers have struggled on the ice and at the ticket counter. The New York Islanders, a once proud franchise, has struggled on the ice for many years and they are in desperate need of a new arena. Team owner Charles Wang has tried repeatedly to begin a new development known as the “Lighthouse Project”, which would include a new arena for his Islanders. Unfortunately, the project has yet to receive the green light and it appears at this point that it never will. All three are candidates for relocation.

As recently as the NHL All-Star game, the commissioner stated that the league has no intention to expand the league or relocate an existing franchise. So, why would a team arrive in Quebec City? The answer is quite simple - the bottom line. Unlike the other major sports leagues, the NHL does not have a multi-million dollar television contract in the United States; revenue is generated by ticket sales and merchandising. Moving a struggling franchise to a market like Quebec City, a market ready to embrace the NHL, is better for the overall health of the league.

If they build it, the NHL will come...

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Senators Sign Chris Phillips To Three-Year Deal

2011-02-28T12:19:00.000-05:00

Chris Phillips Staying In Ottawa
For Three More Years
(Photo TVOS)

With the Ottawa Senators in a rebuilding mode and trading away players like Mike Fisher, Chris Kelly, Jarkko Ruutu, Alex Kovalev and Brian Elliott in recent weeks, the trade deadline spotlight has been shining brightly on pending UFA Chris Phillips.

Phillips made it clear he wanted to remain in Ottawa, the only NHL team he has ever played for, and GM Bryan Murray was interested in keeping the veteran blue-liner - if the price was right. Last night, a compromise was reached and Phillips will remain in Ottawa for three more years. His veteran leadership will be a valuable asset as he mentors the young defenceman coming up in the organization.

Read about the three-year contract extension for Chris Phillips at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Lanny McDonald Shares His Thoughts About The 2011 Heritage Classic

2011-02-26T17:54:00.000-05:00

The Alumni Game At
The 2011 Heritage Classic
(Photo is by my THW Colleague
Chris Ralph)

While the Montreal Canadiens and Calgary Flames prepared for their outdoor game at McMahon Stadium in the 2011 version of the NHL’s Heritage Classic, the city of Calgary hosted a very special family reunion on Friday and Saturday.

NHL Alumni members from the 1986 and 1989 Stanley Cup Finals gathered to reminisce, share a tall tale or two, and lace up their skates once again for a very special rematch.

Enjoying every moment during the festivities was Hall of Fame member and captain of the 1989 Stanley Cup champions, Lanny McDonald.

Read my interview with the Calgary Flames legend at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Alex Kovalev Experiment Ends In Ottawa

2011-02-24T18:23:00.000-05:00

Alex Kovalev Is On His Way
Back To Pittsburgh
(Photo TVOS)

The Alex Kovalev experiment has come to an end - the Ottawa Senators sent the "Russian Riddle" to the Pittsburgh Penguins today in exchange for a conditional 7th round draft pick. If the Penguins make it past the first round of the playoffs and Kovalev plays in 50% of the games, the draft pick becomes a 6th round selection.

Moving the 38-year old veteran provides the Senators with a roster spot to continue auditioning players from Binghamton.

In other moves today, the Sens claimed forward Marek Svatos off the waiver wire from the Nashville Predators.

Read about the moves and goaltender Craig Anderson's quick start in Ottawa at The Hockey Writers

Check out the Pittsburgh perspective from my THW colleague Mike Colligan

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Changes Keep Coming In Ottawa - Ruutu and Elliott On The Move

2011-02-18T21:05:00.000-05:00

Brian Elliott Is Off To Colorado In
Exchange For Avalanche Goaltender
Craig Anderson
(Photo TVOS)

Two weeks before the NHL trade deadline, the "Home-Makeover Sens Edition" rolls on...

The latest moves: Jarkko Ruutu joins the Anaheim Ducks - a 6th round draft pick has been added to Murray's collection, and goaltender Brian Elliott is off to Colorado in exchange for Avalanche goaltender Craig Anderson.

The Senators hope to use the next twenty games to look at Anderson, an unrestricted free agent this summer, and discuss whether or not he will be their goaltender for next season.

Read about the Ruttu and Elliott trades at The Hockey Writers

The Hockey Writers On CBC News - Online Media Slowly Merging With The Mainstream

2011-02-17T10:16:00.000-05:00

This article was first published in the February 16th edition of Main Street Magazine and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper or sign up and have Main Street Magazine delivered right to your inbox.

During my career as a sports columnist, I have experienced many “firsts” - the first big interview, my first time on the radio as a guest, and two weeks ago, my debut on The Hockey Writers Live radio show as a co-host. Last Thursday was another first in my career, an appearance on national television as a guest on the CBC morning news.

At 10pm on Wednesday evening, I received a call from my editor at The Hockey Writers; the CBC had contacted him wanting one of the writers to discuss the new arena proposal in Quebec City from a hockey perspective. By 11pm, I was on the telephone with a CBC producer from Toronto. After a 40 minute pre-interview, I was booked for the morning news program and an interview on live television with Heather Hiscox. Too excited to sleep, I tossed and turned all night; the next thing I knew it was 6am and I was heading out the door of my apartment for the ten-minute walk to the CBC studios in Ottawa. While it was certainly great exposure for myself as a writer (it went great by the way!), it was also an incredible achievement for The Hockey Writers.com.

There has been an ongoing debate in recent years about the battle between the mainstream media and online writers. The mainstream media will have you believe that they are the only legitimate news sources that exist and if you write online, you are not and never will be a “true” journalist. For those not familiar with the world of online sports writing, there are two distinct levels or writing - the “bloggers” that take a more fan-based approach, which can be a lot of fun to read but not always accurate, and there are the news sources. True journalists and columnists working hard to deliver accurate information and fact based opinions on a daily basis.

Originating out of Montreal, The Hockey Writers.com has over 50 hard working writers, dedicated to providing news from around the NHL and the hockey world. The site’s owner, Bruce Hollingdrake, is very careful when it comes to the types of writers working for the site and the content posted there. Through a lot of his own hard work and dedication, Bruce has brought The Hockey Writers to where it is today - getting phone calls from the CBC, looking for information from his team of writers!

While it is easy for the mainstream to dismiss online journalists and columnists, in this ever-increasing mobile world we live in, the ability to reach hundreds, if not thousands of readers instantaneously, is an incredible accomplishment. The Hockey Writers is much like our very own Main Street Magazine - news from the Laurentians can be delivered right to our inbox every week, filled with articles and opinions from excellent writers. Does it have less credibility because it arrives via the Internet? Absolutely not!! The same applies to sites like The Hockey Writers.

Last Thursday’s appearance on the CBC marked an important milestone for myself and The Hockey Writers. A national news outlet with many of their own talented sports broadcasters contacted us, proving that the line between the “mainstream” and the “new media” is closer to disappearing altogether, which is a good thing for all of us.

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Senators Trade Chris Kelly To The Boston Bruins

2011-02-16T15:01:00.001-05:00

Chris Kelly and the Boston Bruins will arrive
at Scotiabank Place on Friday evening to take
on the Ottawa Senators
(Photo - TVOS)

After a 4-3 shootout loss to the New york Islanders last night, Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray announced that Chris Kelly had been traded to the Boston Bruins for a second round pick at the 2011 NHL Draft.

What started out as a "re-tooling" project, shedding salary at the trade deadline and adding some key free agents this summer to become competitive again next season, has become a full rebuild. The Kelly trade is the second in less than a week for Murray - fan-favourite Mike Fisher was traded to the Nashville Predators last Thursday.

Read about the Chris Kelly trade at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Senators Win In Their First Game Without Mike Fisher

2011-02-13T13:20:00.000-05:00

Sens Rookie Bobby Butler
Scored His First NHL Goal
On Hockey Day In Canada
(Photo TVOS)

The Ottawa Senators ended their 11-game losing streak with a 5-3 victory in Edmonton on Hockey Day in Canada. The win also ended goaltender Brian Elliott's personal 13-game losing streak.

In their first game without Mike Fisher, Ottawa fans witnessed strong performances by Nick Foligno, Jason Spezza, and Alex Kovalev. Rookie forward Bobby Butler scored his first NHL goal and added an assist.

Read about the 5-3 victory and life without Mike Fisher at The Hockey Writers

Role Models In The Sports World Still Exist!

2011-02-08T14:31:00.000-05:00

This article first appeared in the February 2011 edition of Main Street and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper.

One of my goals as a sports columnist is to shine the spotlight back on the good people and the role models in the sports world. To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Main Street, in this month’s column I would like to share a few stories about some of the wonderful athletes I have encountered through my work at Main Street, The Voice of Sport and The Hockey Writers.

I started my writing career three years ago and one of the first people I interviewed was Lachute native Kevin Lowe. A six-time Stanley Cup champion, he was my idol growing up and I conducted many imaginary interviews with him when I was 10 years old. When I started with Main Street, I said to Jack, “I am going to get an interview with Kevin Lowe.” I was not sure how, but I was certainly going to try. I sent an email to the Edmonton Oilers and much to my surprise, Kevin wrote back saying he would love to do an interview. We have spoken several times for Main Street and he always finds time for our hometown newspaper; he is certainly one of the good guys.

Another Main Street supporter is baseball pitcher and best-selling author Dirk Hayhurst. Very active on Twitter as The Garfoose, Dirk appealed to his friends and fans to donate to the relief effort when the earthquake struck Haiti. To encourage more donations, he personally called anyone that contributed $50 or more and thanked them. Dirk and his fans also raised money for the relief effort in Pakistan after flooding devastated much of that country. It is not a story that you see in the sports pages, but we should! My conversations with Dirk are always enlightening, inspirational, and entertaining interviews; it is an absolute pleasure to speak with him.

AHL Veteran Bryan Helmer
(Steven Christy)

Hockey player Bryan Helmer has been featured in my columns here at Main Street - Bryan has played in 146 NHL games and he is approaching 1,000 games in the AHL. He too was willing to speak with an “up and coming” sports writer and over the past few years we have become friends. Last year, Bryan’s team won the Calder Cup in the AHL and I asked if I could drop by to take a picture of him when he had the Cup. Expecting a public event, I was in full reporter-mode, but when I arrived, I discovered that I had been invited to the Helmer family dinner. A simple act, but Bryan knew how much it would mean to me to help him celebrate his victory and I now have a cherished memory that will last a lifetime.

In a recent interview with Calgary Flames legend Lanny McDonald for my “Ask the Alumni” series at The Hockey Writers, I asked if there was a charity he was involved with I could help promote in our article - he went on to name over 20 charities. McDonald retired from the NHL in 1989, and yet he is still very active in the hockey community; he is the perfect example of the phrase role model. As Kevin Lowe told me in our first conversation, “If I can lend my name or appear at an event to help others, why wouldn’t I do it?”

It is becoming increasingly difficult to find the good news in the sports pages; scandals and controversy are good for business - a good story about someone lending a helping hand does not sell as well. I have discovered from my own experiences, there are still role models in the sports world - they do exist and we should celebrate them! Have a great sports day everyone.

Image Resource: Steven Christy Photography

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Nick Foligno Quickly Becoming A Leader For The Ottawa Senators

2011-02-06T17:17:00.000-05:00

Ottawa's Nick Foligno and
Sergei Gonchar
(Photo TVOS)

It has been a difficult season for the Ottawa Senators to say the least. As Ottawa fans look for positives this year, one player that is emerging as a true leader on the ice and in the community is left winger Nick Foligno.

After a strong pre-season, Foligno struggled through the first half of the schedule, but his strong work ethic and hard work have begun to pay off in the second half.

Read about Nick Foligno's newfound leadership role at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: 11th Annual Hockey Day In Canada

2011-02-05T13:25:00.000-05:00

Hockey Day In Canada
has become a fun day for the whole family

The CBC hosted a conference call this week to announce the events surrounding the 11th Annual Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada, which takes place in Whitehorse this year. What started as a one day celebration of hockey in Canada, the event has evolved into a full week of activities celebrating all levels of hockey in the country.

I joined the conference call on behalf of The Hockey Writers, speaking with Joel Darling (Director of Production for CBC Sports), Ron Robison (President of the WHL), Doug Janzen (Whitehorse Branch Manager at Scotiabank), Walter Brennan (President of the Yukon Amateur Hockey Association), and the hosts for Hockey Day in Canada - Ron MacLean and Don Cherry.

Read all about Hockey Day in Canada at The Hockey Writers

Saku Koivu - A Great Leader On The Ice And In The Community

2011-02-03T09:57:00.000-05:00

This article was first published in the February 2nd edition of Main Street Magazine and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper or sign up and have Main Street Magazine delivered right to your inbox.

On January 22nd, fans of the Montreal Canadiens welcomed back a former player that won their hearts with his play on the ice and his actions away from the rink. For the first time, Saku Koivu returned to the ice at the Bell Centre as a visitor with the Anaheim Ducks. It was tremendous to hear the ovation he received but it was very strange to see him in a Ducks uniform. While the Canadiens may have chosen to go in a different direction a few season’s ago, it would have been nice to see Koivu retire in a Montreal uniform - he had earned that right.

A first round selection (21st overall) by the Canadiens in the 1993 NHL draft, Koivu arrived in Montreal for the start of the 1995-96 season after playing in his native Finland for three seasons. He made an immediate impact in his rookie season, scoring 20 goals and adding 25 assists. After two years in Montreal, he was named captain of the Habs, becoming the first and only European player to wear the “C” for the Bleu, Blanc et Rouge. His nine seasons as captain is second only to one of the greatest captains in the entire sports world, Montreal Canadiens legend Jean Beliveau. Koivu played 792 games with the Canadiens, scoring 191 goals and adding 450 assists.

Koivu battled back from several injuries during his time in Montreal, but his courageous battle with cancer proved he has the heart of a champion. Feeling unwell, Koivu met with team doctors in the fall of 2001 and received the devastating news - he had non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. He battled the disease and won, and after missing 79 games, he returned to the ice to finish the season with his friends and teammates. The battle with cancer led Koivu to create the Saku Koivu Foundation, raising millions of dollars to purchase a PET/CT scan machine, an important piece of equipment vital to the early detection of cancer. Donated to the Montreal General Hospital, where Koivu was treated, there is no doubt that the machine has saved many lives.

In a recent interview with Calgary Flames legend Theo Fleury for my “Ask the Alumni” series at The Hockey Writers, a reader asked Fleury, if he was the General Manager in Calgary would he keep current captain Jarome Iginla on the Flames until he retired. In many ways, Fleury’s answer applies to the Koivu situation. He said, “I think it’s important that Iggy (Iginla) does retire as a Calgary Flame; it’s important for the league as well. You look at guys like Joe Sakic and Steve Yzerman that had that opportunity to play for so many years for the same organization and have success - I think that is important.”

Some hockey columnists have speculated that Koivu was run out of Montreal because of his failure to learn French, while others claim the organization simply chose to go in another direction. Whatever the reason, from my perspective, Koivu should still be in Montreal with a “C” on his uniform.

The 1st Annual GARFOOSE DAY - March 24th, 2011

2011-02-02T16:16:00.003-05:00

February 2nd - Groundhog Day... A day to publicize and promote an animal that is not very interesting and his accuracy skills on predicting the return of spring is less than inspiring. There is no other way to say this; Groundhog Day should not be celebrated!

The team here at The Voice of Sport has decided that it is time for a new holiday - an event to honour and celebrate a truly remarkable animal. A fire-breathing, wi-fi enabled, half-giraffe/half-moose, protector of the sacred baseball groves.

The Voice of Sport.com is pleased to announce that March 24th, 2011, will mark the first-ever and hopefully 1st Annual GARFOOSE DAY!!

The 1st Annual Garfoose Day gives the Garfooslings of the world an opportunity to celebrate all things Garfoose, including the March 24th birthday boy and Garfoose creator himself - Dirk Hayhurst!

An International event, TVOS wants you to find your inner-Garfoose wherever you are and celebrate! It is a wonderful feeling when you discover the Garfoose within you. How do you find your inner-Garfoose? It’s up to you, anything your imagination can come up with to celebrate the 1st Annual Garfoose Day will be awesome.

Dress up as a Garfoose, go for a walk and send in the pictures (it’s fun - I do it regularly as “Business Garfoose”!). Bake a cake in the shape of a Garfoose or draw a picture of Super-Garfoose. We want to hear all about it - take a picture and send it in to The Voice of Sport. Write a poem or a short story about the wonders and magic of the Garfoose.

Another great way to celebrate Garfoose Day is to help others - volunteer to help someone in your community, make a donation to your local food bank, or donate to a children’s charity - the Garfoose loves children! As a proud Garfoosling, you’ll be helping others while celebrating the 1st Annual Garfoose Day.

At the end of March, we’ll post some of your pictures, poems, stories, or tales of your Garfoose Day activities here at The Voice of Sport (send your stuff to thevoiceofsport@gmail.com). Help spread the word too - if you are on Twitter, tag your tweets with #GarfooseDay

Let’s make the first-ever and 1st Annual Garfoose Day the best it can be and we will teach the silly groundhogs of the world a lesson. Can’t wait to hear all about your Garfoose Day activities...

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Ask The Alumni - Send Us A Question For Claude Lemieux

2011-02-01T18:37:00.000-05:00

Claude Lemieux
Photo by Jill Goodell

The NHL Alumni Association and The Hockey Writers have teamed up for an exciting series at THW - "Ask the Alumni"

Each month a different NHL Alumni guest will join me for an interview and the best part of the series, you can be part of the interview too! This month's guest is 4-time Stanley Cup champion Claude Lemieux.

Lemieux played 1,215 games in the NHL with the Montreal Canadiens, New Jersey Devils, Colorado Avalanche, Phoenix Coyotes, Dallas Stars and the San Jose Sharks. He excelled in the playoffs, winning the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1995 as the playoff MVP, and he is one of only five players to win the Stanley Cup with three different teams.

Have a question for Claude Lemieux - Send it to thwnhlalumni@gmail.com by February 14th, 2011

Image Resource: Claude Lemieux in San Jose - Jill Goodell

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Trip to All-Star Game an Important Lesson for Erik Karlsson

2011-01-31T19:00:00.000-05:00

Erik Karlsson Represented the
Ottawa Senators at the 2011 All-Star Game
(Photo by TVOS)

The Ottawa Senators were represented at the 2011 All-Star game in Raleigh, North Carolina by sophomore defenceman Erik Karlsson. While many hockey fans outside of the nation's capital wondered, "Who is Erik Karlsson?" His offensive abilities has certainly caught the attention of opposition coaches and fellow NHL players.

Read the full article about Karlsson's first all-star appearance at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Clouston and Murray Will Remain In Place Until Season Ends

2011-01-23T16:10:00.000-05:00

As the Ottawa Senators continued to fall in the NHL standings, all eyes turned to team owner Eugene Melnyk. In the final year of their contracts, would head coach Cory Clouston and GM Bryan Murray stay at their posts for much longer? Considering Melnyk expected his team to be in the hunt for the Stanley Cup this year, his silence was surprising...

Last night, veteran Ottawa Sun sports columnist Bruce Garrioch accomplished what many considered impossible - he reached Melnyk and discovered that no changes will happen in Ottawa. Clouston and Murray will remain until the end of the season. As the losses add up, selling "hope for the future" to the season ticket holders will prove to be difficult.

Read the full article at The Hockey Writers

AHL Veteran Bryan Helmer Discusses Oklahoma And His Record Breaking Night With The Voice Of Sport

2011-01-21T21:48:00.002-05:00

AHL Veteran Bryan Helmer Was
Reunited With Hershey Teammate
Alex Giroux in Oklahoma City
(Kathryn Hedrick/Flickr)

After spending the entire summer and the first half of the hockey season waiting for a contract offer, AHL veteran Bryan Helmer finally got the call he was waiting for in early January - he was on his way back to the league with the Oklahoma City Barons.

Only seven points away from becoming the all-time points leader for defencemen in the AHL, the countdown to John Slaney’s 519 career points was on... Bryan’s family, friends, and fans did not have to wait long for the record to fall. On January 13th, in his fourth game with the Oklahoma City Barons, he scored two goals and added an assist in a 7-2 win over the Peoria Rivermen; Helmer tied and surpassed Slaney’s record all in one night and the AHL record book needed a rewrite.

“It’s been crazy, I couldn’t believe how quickly I got the record,” Helmer said on the phone from Rockford where the Barons were preparing for a Friday evening match-up against the IceHogs. “It’s been amazing!”

“It really hasn’t sunk in for me yet, it may take until the summer. It’s funny though, my GM down here came up to me the other day and said, ‘The Hockey Hall of Fame called and they want some of your stuff from when you got the record’ and I was like, what? That’s pretty cool!”

It is tough joining a new organization, especially half-way through a season, as teams have already battled their way through the first 40 games of the schedule, but Helmer found some familiar faces on the Barons roster when he arrived. He is settling in and happy with his teammates, he is also enjoying his time in Oklahoma City as well.

“I played with Alex Giroux (in Hershey) and I knew the coach here (Todd Nelson), and the guys made me feel right at home as soon as I got here,” Helmer explained. “It’s a young team and a team that hasn’t won in the past, but I think they are starting to get that winning feeling because as of late, we have been doing really well - It’s a good fit for me. I had never been to Oklahoma City, so when I got there, I saw that it is a very nice city and they have a really nice rink too, they’ve done a good job here.”

Bryan Helmer
Oklahoma City Barons
(Steven Christy Photography)

A three-time Calder Cup champion, Helmer brings veteran leadership and a never-quit attitude to the Barons. While he is new to the team, he is ready to step in as a leader when it is required and help the team make a push for a playoff position. The Barons are third in the AHL’s West Division, only three points behind the division leading Rivermen. With 11 points in his first eight games, he has already made an impact on the ice and not surprisingly, in the dressing room too.

“It’s funny, after the second game I played; I kind of stood up and said some stuff. I was like, I haven’t been here very long, and I don’t know if I should do this but I’m going to do it anyways. I’m a competitive guy and I want to win, so it just kind of came out of me. As soon as I got here, the coaches said do what you have to and if you have to say something, say it because these guys will listen to you. It’s a young group but they definitely listen and they definitely want to win. It’s amazing in our division how tight it is, you get on a little roll here and we could be right back up there in first place.”

While he is enjoying Oklahoma City, his teammates on the Barons, and the opportunity to be back on the ice, there is a business side to the game of hockey. Helmer is on a 25-game PTO contract and so his wife Pam and two children are still in Ontario. A dedicated husband and father, it can be tough at times to be so far from home.

“I signed a 25-game tryout, so they have 25 games to decide what they want to do. If something doesn’t happen, then I am a free agent again and maybe I can sign with someone else.”

“It’s definitely hard I can tell you that,” explained Bryan. “This is the first time we have done something like this. Calling home and hearing the kids crying because I’m not there is pretty tough - they seem to really miss me when they go to bed, but it would be too hard to pull them out of school now and so we decided we’d try to get through this. Pam has been great and very supportive!”

Now that Helmer has surpassed John Slaney’s career point mark, there is another milestone within reach; 1,000 career games in the AHL. (Bryan is a wonderful guy and will never say this himself, so I will... In the 75-year history in the AHL, his accomplishments are becoming legendary - There is no doubt in my mind that when he hangs up his skates, he will be heading to the AHL Hall of Fame!)

“I am definitely looking forward to that (the 1,000th game). I worked it out and I think it is going to happen in Abbotsford. I wish it could happen at home in Oklahoma City but I just want to get it, no matter where it happens. It will be a huge milestone, there are only six other guys that have played 1,000 games in the American League, so it’s pretty cool.”

And how about receiving an invite to join the AHL Hall of Fame I asked?

“Well, I mean, it would be pretty cool - just to be in a group like that. Where I came from out of Tier II Junior, it’s pretty neat. It would definitely be an accomplishment. I always tell young guys, when they think that they are going to be done; I had a lots of people tell me to come back to my hometown, play Junior B there. I was like, no, I’m just going to stay in Wellington, play another year and see what happens. Thank God I did because it worked out for me.”

Bryan Arrives In Chesterville, Ontario
With The Calder Cup
(August 2010 - Photo TVOS)

Interviews with Bryan here at The Voice of Sport always receive a tremendous amount of support from hockey fans in Hershey and Washington (Thanks Emily and Kathryn for spreading the word), and I always share messages and comments from Bears fans with him. While there is obviously a business side to professional hockey as I have mentioned, there is also a personal side too; Bryan and his family enjoyed their time as part of the Hershey Bears family.

“I had two great years there and I met a lot of nice people. I’ve gotten a lot of emails, text messages and voice mails from a lot of people in Hershey. I have always said for the last two years, that they are the best fans in the AHL and I still stand by that. To come out and support the team the way they did, it’s pretty impressive. I definitely miss that part, but now it’s a new chapter in my hockey career and I’m moving on, but definitely, the last two years were great years in my career and in my life. I definitely want to say hello to everyone down in Hershey!”

Heading into tonight’s game against Rockford, Bryan has 524 career points and is ten games away from 1,000 career games in the AHL. With his point totals so far this season, I suggested maybe he should go for 600 career points - he laughed but didn’t say no...

I often tell people that there are still role models in the sports world and that Bryan Helmer is at the top of the list - Congratulations Bryan on your return to the AHL and your record-breaking performances!

As I work on editing this article, the Barons game is underway and Bryan has an assist on the first goal for Oklahoma City... Are you sure you are not aiming for 600 points?

Way to go Bryan!!

Image Resources:
Steven Christy Photography

Kathryn Hedrick

Thank you Steven and Kathryn!

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Theo Fleury and "Ask the Alumni"

2011-01-20T17:15:00.000-05:00

Theoren Fleury
(NHL Alumni Association)

This month's guest for my "Ask the Alumni" series at The Hockey Writers is Calgary Flames legend and best-selling author Theoren Fleury. We discuss coming into the NHL with the Calgary Flames in 1989, representing Canada at International tournaments, his best-selling autobiography, and his speaking engagements. Plus, he answers the questions submitted by THW readers!

Read my interview with Theo Fleury at The Hockey Writers

Oh Canada - Be Proud Of Silver At The World Junior Championship!

2011-01-19T12:37:00.000-05:00

This article was first published in the January 19th edition of Main Street Magazine and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper or sign up and have Main Street Magazine delivered right to your inbox.

A few weeks have passed since the annual World Junior Championship, and with the sky firmly in place above us (as in, the sky is not falling), perhaps it is a good time to discuss Canada’s silver medal at the tournament. The fact that Team Canada came home with a silver medal is not something to be scoffed at, or called the “biggest meltdown in Canadian hockey history”, or any of the other comments that emerged after Russia stormed back from a 3-0 deficit to defeat the Canadians by a 5-3 score in the gold medal game.

Sometimes the media-hype machine can work too well - we have been sold on the “this is our game” ad campaign, when in fact, hockey belongs to the world now. Sure, Canada excels at the sport and is in the hunt for gold on most occasions, but we should embrace the fact that the game of hockey is equally cherished in many other nations throughout the world. While our young men dream of winning the Stanley Cup, many of the youngsters growing up in other countries dream of wearing their national colours at the Olympics or World Championship. Let’s give the other hockey nations some credit - they have grown the game and can give Canada a good fight for the gold; that is a good thing!

One problem that hockey fans do not seem to realize is that in the junior tournament, there are age restrictions. Young men graduate out of the tournament because they have reached the age maximum or in the case of many Canadian 18-20-year olds, they have already moved on to the National Hockey League. Jeff Skinner (18) is in Carolina leading all NHL rookies with 37 points, Taylor Hall (19) is 3rd in rookie scoring with 27 points in Edmonton, and Tyler Seguin (18) has 16 points with the Boston Bruins. Many of Canada’s top players are already in the NHL and yet the loss at the World Junior Championship is supposed to be a national crisis.

Heading into this year’s World Junior Championship, with most of last year’s gold medal team returning, Team USA were the favourites to win it all again. As they discovered, once these tournaments head into the elimination round, anything can happen. It is not a seven game series like the NHL, it is loser goes home, winner keeps playing - it is as simple as that. Was the way the game was lost disappointing - certainly. Is it time to hold parliamentary debates about the state of “our” game - no, it is not.

We have wrapped our national identity in a tournament played by 17 and 18-year old kids. Perhaps part of the problem is the fact that many casual hockey fans tune in for this tournament believing the media-hype and expect too much from these young men. For the hockey fans that watch junior games regularly, these things happen - mistakes happen; it is the reality of learning the game at an elite level.

Unfortunately, this is a topic I have touched on before and most likely will again - the game of hockey belongs to the world now. We should embrace and support our teams, not point fingers and play the blame game. It is a shame when silver is considered a disgrace...

"Business Garfoose" Visits Ottawa's Museum Of Nature!

2011-01-18T16:23:00.001-05:00

When deciding how to celebrate the 300th posting here at The Voice of Sport, "Business Garfoose" contacted me, saying he was ready for another adventure as part of our ongoing mission to spread the word about all things Garfoose!!

The real Garfoose is a half-giraffe/half moose that lives with MLB pitcher and best-selling author Dirk Hayhurst. "Business Garfoose" is a distant relative that strayed from the flock and entered the world of high finance and corporate takeovers... He has gone shopping in Toronto and visited Parliament Hill in Ottawa with a very special message.

Today's Adventure: "Business Garfoose" visits Ottawa's Museum of Nature!

"Business Garfoose" Arrives At The Museum

"Business Garfoose" Enjoys The Moose
Carved Into The Stone

Much Like "Where's Waldo?"
Can You Spot BG?

"Have You Ever Thought About Investing?"

"Business Garfoose" Tells His New Friend
About How Awesome Dirk Hayhurst Is!!

This Guy Wasn't Much For Conversation!

"Business Garfoose" Finds A Distant Relative,
His Cousin George!

Smile For The Camera George...
Okay, Don't then...

My Antlers are Bigger Than Yours!

Home On The Range!

Ottawa's Museum Of Nature Is A
Beautiful Place To Visit!

Until We Meet Again! "Business Garfoose"
Was Off To Purchase Another
Small Country...

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: AHL or NHL - What's Best For Sens Prospect Robin Lehner?

2011-01-17T21:15:00.000-05:00

The plan heading into the season for Ottawa Senators prospect Robin Lehner was to have the young goaltender see as much action in the American Hockey League as possible this year, giving the first-year professional an opportunity to learn the game at the next level. Unfortunately, with Pascal Leclaire's lingering injuries, Lehner has spent the season travelling between Binghamton and Ottawa, playing with the Binghamton Senators, and sitting on the bench in Ottawa.

As the Senators fall further out of the playoff picture, is it time to see what Lehner can do at the NHL level? Is he a better option than Brian Elliott at this point?

Read the full article at The Hockey Writers

Bryan Helmer Becomes The All-Time Leading Scorer For AHL Defencemen

2011-01-14T01:42:00.001-05:00

With His 520th Career Point Tonight,
Bryan Helmer Becomes The All-Time Scoring Leader
For Defencemen In The AHL
(Photo by Kathryn Hedrick/Flickr)

Many of the greatest hockey players in the storied history of the game have stepped on the ice in the 75 years of the American Hockey League - So many legends of the game, so many stories, and so many magical moments. On Thursday evening, hockey fans witnessed another magical moment as Winchester, Ontario native Bryan Helmer became the all-time leader for career points by a defenceman in the league.

The previous record of 519 points belonged to John Slaney, set in his final season (2006-07). Helmer passed Slaney’s career mark on Thursday with two goals and an assist, including the game winner, as the Oklahoma City Barons defeated the Peoria Rivermen by a 7-2 score.

What makes the record more incredible is the fact that until last week, Helmer was at his home in Westport, Ontario waiting for a contract offer. A victim of the AHL and NHL youth movement, as well as the AHL’s veteran rule, which limits the number of players with more than 250 games experience on each team, all Helmer could do was stay prepared and wait.

The summer came and went, and yet there were still no concrete offers on the table. Speaking with Bryan in September about his contract situation, the first thing on his mind was getting his family settled.

“This is something new,” Bryan said at the time. “Usually, I have been able to get a deal done at the end of July; this is the longest I have ever been without a contract. The hardest thing for me is obviously my family. The kids are asking where they will be going to school and where we are going to be. It’s hard when you hear them asking questions like that, it gets a little stressful.”

Unfortunately, the wait continued and Helmer ended 2010 at home, skating as often as possible, working out in the gym - he joked that he had met a lot more of his neighbours because Westport is usually his summer home. While he was anxious to resume his hockey career, the love and support of his family and friends helped him stay positive.

“I am doing everything I can,” Bryan said in December. “Skating by myself, skating any time I can get ice time here in Westport. I also played in a police tournament in Smith Falls, Ontario. One of my buddies is with the police force and he asked me to play. I was like, ‘I’m not a police officer’ but he said, ‘Your dad was, that’s close enough!’”

He knew he would be facing a decision about his hockey career in 2011. Keep trying for the AHL, look for a spot in the ECHL, or head over to Europe to get some games in this season and try for the AHL next year? All the while, he knew he was only six points away from matching the milestone mark for career points by a defenceman. The decision to play elsewhere would not be an easy one. In early January, I received an email letting me know that Bryan was trying out for the Oklahoma City Barons, the AHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers. When he signed with the Barons last Friday, the chase for 520 career points was on!

Bryan In August 2010
With The Calder Cup
(Photo/TVOS)

Now that he is the all-time scoring leader for defencemen in the AHL, the next career milestone for Helmer inches closer as well. With 14 more games, the three-time Calder Cup champion becomes the seventh player in the history of the league to reach the 1,000-game plateau. That will be another night of celebration in my household, and I am sure in many others as well.

Congratulations Bryan!! You have worked hard to reach this milestone; you love playing the game and tonight you made hockey history!! The doors to the AHL Hall of Fame are wide open and your place amongst the greats is waiting.

I would like to close this article with some thoughts from my very first interview with Bryan. It described the situation at the time and strikes me as appropriate again tonight.

Sometimes the path to your dream is a long and winding road that takes you to unexpected places. Priorities may change but the goal remains the same. For Bryan Helmer, every twist and turn has been worth it. He has achieved goals that others only dream of, all the while, being a true fan of the game.

The Capital City Condors - A Tremendous Hockey Program For Ottawa Children With Special Needs

2011-01-12T10:45:00.000-05:00

Ryan and Isaac

This article first appeared in the January 2011 edition of Main Street and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper.

As Lachute, Quebec prepares to host the 33rd edition of their annual hockey tournament, I thought a great way to start 2011 here at Main Street would be to share an inspirational hockey story. Through my work at The Hockey Writers, I discovered the Capital City Condors - A hockey program in Ottawa for children with physical and learning disabilities. It is a truly remarkable team, helping children with special needs explore their love of hockey as they discover a newfound confidence off the ice.

Growing up in a country with a rich hockey history, we often take for granted that we can lace up our skates, join our local team and dream about playing in the NHL one day. For some of us, the dream ends abruptly with the realization that you do not skate very well - and never will (me for example!), but the opportunity is there. What if your child had a disability and was not eligible to play on the local team, in love with the game but having to remain on the sidelines watching their brothers and sisters play? For Ottawa area kids, that all changed three years ago thanks to Jim and Shana Perkins.

“The success of the Condors is not how great these kids become on the ice,” Jim Perkins explained. “It is being part of a team, having a team jersey with their name and their favourite number on it. It is all about as much of their dream as possible coming true. Some of them will make a lot of progress (on the ice), we have seen that, and some of them won’t, but that’s okay.”

“We get so much out of this, the interaction with the kids and their parents. Many of these parents are like heroes to us – the tenderness that they demonstrate to their kids. It has been really moving for us. It is a great thing to be involved in, a ton of work, but we get a lot out of it in return. This isn’t just a team, it is a community.”

In their first year, Jim and Shana welcomed three children into the Condors program, now there are 40 participants and a waiting list. They would like to see the program expand in Ottawa and perhaps into Gatineau as well. The Capital City Condors fall under the umbrella of Special Hockey, an international organization dedicated to enriching the lives of special needs children through hockey. Besides playing and practising locally, they take part in a tournament each year.

Matt Carkner and Zachary

“Last year we went to our first tournament in Orangeville, Ontario and there were around fifty teams there,” Perkins said. “This year’s tournament is in Marlborough, Massachusetts and we are going to go down and participate in that. They do these up right too, they march each team in and they have team flags; it is done really, really well.”

“The following year, the tournament is in London, England, 2013 is in Kitchener, Ontario and we have put a bid in for 2014 to host the event here in Ottawa. They like to jump back and forth between Canada and the US and every fifth year it is London.”

With the help of a tremendous group of volunteers, which includes Ottawa Senators defenceman Matt Carkner, Jim and Shana Perkins are helping to enrich the lives of these children through hockey; it is a truly inspirational program.

You can find more information about the Capital City Condors at their website: capitalcitycondors.org

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Changes Behind The Bench In 2011-2012 For Senators?

2011-01-11T18:22:00.000-05:00

A UFA This Summer, Fan Favourite Jarkko Ruutu Could Be
On The Move If Sens Keep Struggling.
(Photo TVOS)

Last week, Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray spoke with the team and the coaching staff about finding a more consistent effort in the second half of the season. His message to all - he's not happy, the organization is not happy and the fans are not happy. Changes are coming if the losing continues.

If the team sinks further in the standings, Murray is prepared to shed salary at the trade deadline and a coaching change looms on the horizon. If Bryan Murray does indeed step behind the bench for the remainder of the season as many fans expect, who is available to coach the Senators for the 2011-2012 season?

Read the full article at The Hockey Writers

AHL Veteran Bryan Helmer To Sign With Oklahoma City Barons

2011-01-07T12:03:00.001-05:00

Andrew and Bryan with the Calder Cup - August 2010

Word filtered through to me earlier this week, but not wanting to reveal any secrets, I had to sit on this information for a few days...

AHL veteran and friend of TVOS, Bryan Helmer, is back in the American Hockey League, perhaps as early as tonight - with the Oklahoma City Barons, the AHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers.

The three-time Calder Cup champion was without a contract this season, but he has been in Oklahoma to practise with the team for the past week. NewsOK is reporting today that a contract offer is forthcoming for the veteran defenseman.

The Barons just sent out a press release confirming that Helmer will be suiting up with the Barons.

“He’s a guy that can play the power play and do a lot of things for us,” Barons head coach Todd Nelson told NewsOK. “He’s got an impressive resume.”

Bryan has been very supportive of my career and The Voice of Sport, and I can honestly say he is the true definition of the phrase role model. A dedicated father and teammate, he remained positive even though his hockey career was on hold. Speaking with him while he waited for a contract offer, it was very clear that Bryan's passion for hockey had not diminished at all and he was ready to embrace any new challenges that came his way.

By joining the Barons, Helmer can continue his quest to reach two very important career milestones: 1,000 games played in the AHL (he has hit the ice in 982 games) and John Slaney's career point total for a defenseman. Helmer is six points away from reaching Slaney's 519 career points.

“I still have the drive to play,” Helmer said when we spoke at the end of November for an article at The Hockey Writers. “But that (Slaney’s 519 points) is really making me want to play; I’d also love to win another championship.”

TVOS will be speaking with Bryan in the near future (he is a little busy right now!) so keep an eye out for more information on his return to the AHL here at The Voice of Sport.

Congratulations Bryan!!

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Playoff Hopes Fade in Ottawa - Murray Meets With Media

2011-01-05T17:00:00.000-05:00

The clock is ticking on Ottawa's
playoff chances

Sitting in 12th place in the Eastern Conference and in the midst of another losing streak, Ottawa Senators General Manager Bryan Murray met with the Ottawa media today to discuss his team and head coach Cory Clouston. Murray made it clear he is "not happy" with his team's performance and when asked if Clouston will finish the season he said, "I can't answer that question because I don't know."

Read the full article at The Hockey Writers

Good Luck To The Garfoose!!

2011-01-04T18:46:00.001-05:00

When MLB relief pitcher and best-selling author Dirk Hayhurst was heading for shoulder surgery last year, I gathered up a group of friends to wish The Garfoose good luck. The idea quickly took-off and many "Garfooslings" sent along similar pictures to cheer up our friend from Twitter...

Yesterday, Hayhurst wrote an eloquent good-bye to Blue Jays fans at his website, as he revealed he will not be back with the team for the 2011 season. A great friend to all his Garfooslings and a supporter of The Voice of Sport, I had to gather up the gang once again to say "Good Luck Dirk" - We are all rooting for you!!

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Time For Ottawa To Call-Up Corey Locke And Bobby Butler

2011-01-03T16:55:00.000-05:00

The Ottawa Senators have struggled to score goals all season and a lottery pick is becoming more realistic than a playoff position. With so many under-performing top-six forwards this season, why is the leading scorer in the AHL (Corey Locke) and one of their top prospects (Bobby Butler) still sitting in Binghamton and not getting an opportunity to shine in the NHL?

It is time for the offensively challenged Senators to audition Corey Locke and Bobby Butler - Read the full article at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: Spezza Injury Could End Senators Playoff Dream

2010-12-27T16:50:00.000-05:00

Jason Spezza will be
out of action for at least
4 to 6 weeks
(Slidingsideways/Flickr)

The Ottawa Senators defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins by a 3-1 score on Sunday evening at Scotiabank Place. However, the win was a costly one for Ottawa, as the team announced today that their most dynamic playmaker, Jason Spezza, is sidelined for at least 4 to 6 weeks with a right shoulder injury. Can the offensively challenged Senators survive without Spezza as they attempt to catch the Boston Bruins for the 8th and final playoff position in the Eastern Conference?

Read about the injury, the reaction, and Ottawa's hunt for a playoff spot at The Hockey Writers

TVOS at The Hockey Writers: "Ask the Alumni" - Send Us A Question For Theo Fleury

2010-12-24T20:16:00.001-05:00

Working with the NHL Alumni Association, The Hockey Writers has started an exciting new feature - "Ask the Alumni".

Readers now have the opportunity to be part of my interviews with members of the NHL Alumni Association and see their answers in articles posted at The Hockey Writers. We are pleased to announce that our next guest for the "Ask the Alumni" series at The Hockey Writers is Theo Fleury!

We are accepting your question for Theoren Fleury until January 9th, 2011 at thwnhlalumni@gmail.com

The Voice of Sport at The Hockey Writers: Can The Christmas Break Cure Hurting Senators?

2010-12-24T00:16:00.000-05:00

20-year-old Erik Karlsson is
second in team scoring
with 20 points
(Dan4th/Flickr)

The Ottawa Senators head into the Christmas Break on a winning note, with a 2-1 victory in Nashville over the Predators. However, this far into the season, GM Bryan Murray did not expect the team he assembled to be 10th in the Eastern Conference. The Boston Bruins currently hold the 8th and final playoff position with a six point lead and three games in hand.

Murray thinks his squad is a playoff team but the numbers tell a different story.

You can find the full article at The Hockey Writers.

The Voice of Sport at The Hockey Writers: Interview with Georges Laraque

2010-12-22T16:35:00.000-05:00

Georges Laraque with his fellow
Deputy Leader of the Green Party
Adriane Carr
(Photo by Brent Granby/Flickr)

For the casual hockey fan, the name Georges Laraque conjures up images of one of the true heavyweights in the history of the NHL; a man that took on any challenger in his role as a fighter in the league. However, there is much more to this "enforcer" then his knockout punch. He is very passionate about the environment, better treatment for our animal friends - becoming a vegan in 2009, and last summer he became the Deputy Leader of Canada's Green Party. He is also active in helping numerous charities. Very open and honest, it was a thoroughly enlightening conversation.

The December guest for my "Ask the Alumni" series is Georges Laraque - Read the interview at The Hockey Writers

Would A New Coach And GM Help The Calgary Flames This Season?

2010-12-18T13:46:00.000-05:00

Back in the 1980’s and early 1990’s, a trip through Alberta for a NHL team almost certainly meant a two-game losing streak. Once Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Jari Kurri, and the Oilers were done dazzling a team with their goal scoring abilities, it was off to Calgary to face Lanny McDonald, Al MacInnis, Theo Fleury, Doug Gilmour and the rest of the red-hot Calgary Flames. It was a part of the schedule that no team enjoyed.

Lately though, a trip through Alberta has been a little easier to handle. While the Oilers are showing signs of life with some great young talent, for some reason, the Flames have lost their sizzle and find themselves near the bottom of the Western Conference and searching for solutions.

It is often said that there are no “must win” games in October, November, and early December. Teams that get off to a slow start have plenty of time in an 82-game schedule to establish their systems and rebound from a poor beginning. Having said that, I am a firm believer that when a team does get off to a slow start, there are “have to” win games; not out of desperation, but as a means of gaining confidence and finding a winning attitude.

For the Calgary Flames, the “have to” win games are behind them, they are clearly in must win mode. The Flames started the season with a 4-0 loss to their provincial rivals, the Edmonton Oilers, and have been hit-and-miss since then. They have some convincing victories (a 6-2 win over Columbus on October 22nd and a 3-2 shootout victory in Philadelphia on November 26th for example), to go along with some embarrassing losses (a 7-2 loss to Washington on October 30th and a 7-2 loss to their division rivals from Vancouver on December 1st).

Thirty-two games into the season and they have a 14-15-3 record and 31 points, not a terrible beginning, but an inconsistent one. In the difficult Western Conference, Calgary must find their winning attitude - and quickly, or they risk falling out of contention for the final playoff position. As it stands now, they are only four points out of a playoff spot in 13th place, but more was expected of this team. If you read the news coming out of Alberta, many fans believe it is time for a change behind the bench and in the General Manager’s office.

At this point in the schedule, it is time for the Flames to put together a winning streak, if the losing continues, it could be said that the season was lost in October. Last year, the St. Louis Blues finished the season with 90 points, ninth in the Western Conference. It appears a similar point total is required to reach the playoffs this year. Several of the teams in the West appear ready to race towards the finish line - Detroit, Los Angeles, Nashville, and Vancouver have all played solidly, which leaves four playoff positions left for the remaining 11 teams. Teams like Chicago, San Jose, and Colorado will make a strong push for the playoffs in the New Year and that will put even more pressure on a team like Calgary.

The problem in Calgary is not necessarily scoring goals; they have only been shutout on two occasions this year. Overall, they are 17th in the league with 89 goals for (2.69 goals per game). The Flames are not allowing an alarming number of goals either; they rank 18th in the league in the goals against category (93 goals allowed, 2.84 goals per game). Much like the Ottawa Senators and their struggles in the nation’s capital, the inability to win back-to-back games is leaving the Flames in a chase position instead of being in control of their own destiny.

There is little doubt that Brent and Darryl Sutter are knowledgeable hockey men, but whatever systems they are trying to sell in Calgary, the players and the fans are not ready to buy into it. Unlike the Oilers, a team that admits they are in a rebuilding mode with a 5-7 year plan, the Flames are built for right now. One cannot help but wonder if the fire and brimstone of the Sutters and the era of running a team with an iron-fist have passed. Players with long-term contracts know they can outlast any coach in today’s NHL, and if the team as a whole stops listening to their head coach, it is usually only a matter of time before a change is made.

Miikka Kiprusoff is still one of the elite goaltenders in the league, Jarome Iginla (his 14 goals and 16 assists leads the team) is still the heart and soul of the franchise, but they cannot get the job done by themselves. The Alex Tanguay signing appears to be paying off (2nd on the team in scoring with 9 goals and 16 assists), as is the Brendan Morrison deal (5 goals and 14 assists).

Looking at Olli Jokinen’s second stint in Calgary though and you realize that the support a player like Iginla requires is not present. Matt Stajan’s $3.5 million cap hit hurts this team, as does the $3 million to Niklas Hagman and Ales Kotalik. When you are thinking about contending teams, having those three players near the top of your payroll does not conjure up images of Stanley Cup parades. The age of the players leading the way in Calgary illustrates the point that, unlike their Alberta rivals in Edmonton, this team was supposed to challenge for the Stanley Cup now - not in 3-5 years.

What does the future hold in Calgary? There is no easy answer to that question. Even with changes at the top or behind the bench, the poor decisions on some contracts will not go away any time soon. Matt Stajan is a Flame until the end of the 2013-2014 season; Kotalik, Hagman, and Jokinen have another year remaining on their contracts. In today’s NHL, trading away these players will be difficult - to shed a bad contract, a team will have to acquire a bad contract.

For an organization that has not seen the second round of the playoffs since before the lockout and did not qualify for the post-season last year, it is difficult to say that the future looks bright in Calgary, with or without a change in management. Heading into 2011, the Flames have officially entered “must win” territory.

Montreal Canadiens: Team Chemistry, Carey Price, and Jaroslav Who?

2010-12-17T11:12:00.000-05:00

This article was first published in the December 15th edition of Main Street Magazine and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper or sign up and have Main Street Magazine delivered right to your inbox.

A wonderful year at Main Street Magazine is wrapping up and 2011 is right around the corner. As 2010 ends, it is a great time to share a few thoughts on the Montreal Canadiens and their first 30 games.

Team Chemistry: When the Canadiens backed their way into last season’s playoffs, most hockey analysts expected a first round loss to the Washington Capitals. However, as they rode the hot-hand of Jaroslav Halak, the Bleu, Blanc, et Rouge came together as a group and fought their way to the Eastern Conference Final. After defeating the heavily favoured Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins, the clock struck midnight on their fairy tale trip through the post-season.

Coming into the 2010-2011 season, the team has proven that while Halak was a key contributor in the post-season, perhaps his brilliance overshadowed another element to the team - chemistry. With a full season together, this year’s squad has marched straight to the top of their division and the conference. There is still a long way to go, but at this point, it looks like the Boston Bruins are the only Northeast Division team capable of catching the Habs. The players have become familiar with Jacques Martin’s coaching style and they appear to genuinely like each other. They are having fun on and off the ice; confidence and chemistry can take this team deep into the playoffs again this season.

Jaroslav Who? After Montreal GM Pierre Gauthier traded goaltender Jaroslav Halak, all eyes looked towards Carey Price. Could Bob Gainey’s “thoroughbred” finally become the team’s next great goaltender? As the team passes the 30-game mark, we are well on our way to knowing the answer.

Price appears to be the “real deal” in Montreal; he is near the top of most statistical categories with the league’s elite goaltenders. The young man from Anahim Lake, BC leads the league in games played (27), minutes played (1,623) and wins (17). He is second in the league in shutouts (4) and total saves (757), and his 1.96 goals against average ranks fourth overall. Not too bad for a kid with so many doubters heading into the season. Unsure of how he would perform as the team’s number one goaltender, the Canadiens wisely signed Price to a two-year contract at $2.75 million per year. With the season he is having, it may already be time to think contract extension. The more success this young man has, the more costly it will be in the end.

The “Other” Guys: When Halak went to St. Louis in a trade for Lars Eller and Ian Schultz, the overwhelming sentiment in Montreal was anger. A legitimate number one goaltender traded for two unproven prospects - the fans were outraged! Halak has impressed hockey fans in St. Louis and Price has performed in Montreal, taking some of the pressure off the Canadiens GM. Having said that, Eller and Schultz will forever be known as the “other guys” in the Halak deal. So, how are they doing?

Eller has hit the ice in all but one of Montreal’s games, scoring two goals and adding four assists. The first round pick (13th overall) in the 2007 draft has demonstrated some playmaking skills, while not being a defensive liability. He will make some mistakes, as all rookies do, but he is learning on the job, which will only help his career moving forward.

Schultz has played 17 games for the Hamilton Bulldogs in the American Hockey League. After playing his junior hockey with the Calgary Hitmen in the Western Hockey League, Schultz is considered a long-term project. He will not be in Montreal this season but his time in Hamilton will help him develop into a strong third or fourth line player.

Have a safe and happy holiday everyone - I will see you back here at Main Street in the New Year!

The Voice of Sport at The Hockey Writers: Alex Kovalev And The Upcoming NHL Roster Freeze

2010-12-14T20:51:00.001-05:00

Alex Kovalev - The Russian Riddle
(Dan4th/Flickr)

The NHL's annual holiday roster freeze is set to begin on December 19th, and Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray must decide whether he will attempt to make a trade before the deadline. With four games over the holiday period, if the Senators continue with their inconsistent play, it may be too late after the break to pull the trigger on a trade that will save the season in Ottawa.

There is also a growing rift between head coach Cory Clouston and Alex "the Russian Riddle" Kovalev - How long can they coexist before the situation becomes yet another distraction for the struggling Sens?

Read about the week ahead for Bryan Murray at The Hockey Writers

The Voice of Sport at The Hockey Writers: Senators D-Man Matt Carkner and the Capital City Condors

2010-12-11T18:01:00.000-05:00

Matt and Zachary

Three years ago, Jim and Shana Perkins created the Capital City Condors - a hockey team for children with special needs. With the help of many wonderful volunteers, including Ottawa Senators defenceman Matt Carkner, the Condors are changing lives in the nation's capital.

Read my interview with Jim Perkins and learn more about the Capital City Condors at The Hockey Writers

The Future Looks Bright For Kevin Lowe's Edmonton Oilers

2010-12-08T14:02:00.000-05:00

A portion of this article first appeared in the December 2010 edition of Main Street and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper.

Last year, Lachute’s own Kevin Lowe began checking in with Main Street to keep us up to date with the news in Edmonton. Once again, he has taken time from a very busy schedule with the Oilers to share his thoughts with The Voice of Sport.

The Oilers struggled through injuries last season and found themselves at the bottom of the standings and in the hunt for the first overall pick in the NHL Draft. While they would have preferred to have more W’s in the win column, having the opportunity to select a future star kept Lowe, General Manager Steve Tambellini, and the organization’s scouting department very busy behind the scenes.

“The people that put in all the leg work and hours and time on the road are the scouts; guys like Steve and myself in upper management, we put as much time in as we can, but it pales in comparison to what those guys do,” Lowe explained.

“Last year, hopefully it was a bit of a rarity for us that we got to pick first, but we knew for some time that we would have that chance. We were able to really hone in and focus a lot of attention on the number one pick. Having said that, that doesn’t mean we don’t put that kind of attention and time into every year. There is so much room for error that you have to do everything possible in terms of asking the right questions and doing the research.”

“There are no guarantees that whoever you draft, that they are going to become NHL players. You want to try to minimize the potential for error because the draft is so critical to the lifeblood of the organization. If you want to have sustainability you have to draft well, if you want to try and win a championship you have to draft well; everything revolves around the drafting.”

With that number one pick, the Oilers selected Taylor Hall, a junior star with the Windsor Spitfires in the Ontario Hockey League and a two-time Memorial Cup winner. What was it about Hall that made him stand out from the other eligible players?

“His ability to rise in the toughest of situations; when the game is on the line, he’s the guy that appeared to be unafraid of the moment,” Lowe said. “He’s still a very young man but he has had a lot of success. When we got to meet him, he appeared to have a real genuine love for the game. Most kids do, but hockey really seemed to be his first and only focus. That really separates the great ones from all the others.”

Personally, it seems like only yesterday that I was watching Lowe lift the Stanley Cup with the Oilers, so it is hard to believe that his son Keegan, a 17-year-old defenceman with the Edmonton Oil Kings in the Western Hockey League will soon be eligible for the NHL Draft. A long-time executive with the Oilers, Lowe could be attending the draft as a hockey dad.

“Hopefully that’s the case, he’s coming along nicely and starting to get some attention,” the proud father said. “He hasn’t made the first few lists (scouts rank the top draft eligible players), but I know that is not going to infringe or get in the way of his desire to play.”

“At the end of the day, if there was one thing that the hockey organizations could track that would be most beneficial, it’s heart and desire. If we could have a way of tracking that amongst these young players, I’d bet on the ones with the heart and desire that they will eventually find their way to the NHL. I enjoy watching Keegan’s games and it brings a special added interest for me, no question.”

Looking ahead, the Oilers are starting to accumulate some great young talent in their organization. With players like Hall, Jordan Eberle, and Magnus Paajarvi, they have a solid foundation of skilled players moving forward. In a few years, with a few more key additions to the organization, they hope to bring the Stanley Cup back to Edmonton.

“We have a very knowledgeable fan base and they are very supportive, they can see the future is very bright,” said Lowe. “We had a very good draft last year and our second round picks are all playing very well in the Western Hockey League. Then we have guys in the minors that are all coming along nicely, guys like Linus Omark, Jeff Petry, and Alex Plante.”

“We have all of our picks this year and we know that there are some challenges in the near-future to stay competitive, but these guys are learning on the job. Hopefully, the fans can see what we are scripting out here, in terms of an overall plan. If we look at Chicago, and in some respects Washington, that is obviously the main template, and the final part of Chicago's plan culminated in them winning the Stanley Cup. If we fast-forward over the next 5-7 years that is what we hope we will be doing.”

“Everything is looking really good actually. You want to try and win more hockey games, but we’ve had enough nights in this season that really make us feel that we are on the right track.”

The template is in place and the future does look bright in Edmonton - since our conversation, the Oilers have won five of their last seven games, proving that the organization is indeed on the right track. As always, a very special thank you to Kevin Lowe for sharing his time with The Voice of Sport.

NHL Rookies To Watch In 2010:Logan Couture, Jeff Skinner, Jordan Eberle

2010-12-07T15:22:00.000-05:00

In recent years, the NHL has experienced a youth movement, as the top draft picks enter the league and make an immediate impact with their organizations. Heading into last June’s draft, the talk was Taylor or Tyler - Hall or Seguin... Who’s number one? Both players are off to a great start in their NHL careers, but amongst this year’s rookie class, three other players are making their case for consideration as Calder Trophy candidates.

Logan Couture - San Jose Sharks

A first round selection (9th overall) in the 2007 draft, Logan Couture split last season between the NHL's San Jose Sharks and the AHL’s Worcester Sharks. Couture was ready to make an impact in the NHL last season but limited roster spots and salary cap implications left the young forward bouncing between the two leagues. He played in 25 games in the NHL last season, which left him eligible for the Calder Trophy this season.

With so much traveling between leagues last year, Couture may have woken up each day wondering what city he was in, but the Guelph, Ontario native always knew how to put pucks into the back of the net. In 42 games with Worcester, he scored 20 goals and added 33 assists; he scored 5 goals and 4 assists in the NHL. He also accumulated some valuable experience in the playoffs, suiting up for 15 games with San Jose and scoring 4 goals.

In his last three games, Couture has 4 goals (a two-goal game vs. Ottawa and two against Detroit, including the game winner), and one assist. He is second in rookie scoring with 18 points (12 goals, 6 assists) and his experience from last season will help him develop this year. The fact he has plenty of talent around him in San Jose may limit his ice-time, but already knowing the ins and outs of life in the NHL has to make him a heavy favourite for the Calder.

Jeff Skinner - Carolina Hurricanes

When the Carolina Hurricanes stepped on to the stage at the 2010 NHL Draft and announced Jeff Skinner was their first round pick (7th overall), many hockey fans collectively said, “Who?”

The young man from Markham, Ontario was projected to go in the second round (34th overall), but Carolina liked what they saw in the former Kitchener Ranger and made him their top pick. He wrapped up his junior career with 50 goals and 40 assists during the regular season and finished second in OHL playoff scoring with 33 points (Taylor Hall was number one).

Stepping right into a prominent role with the Hurricanes this season, the 18-year-old has proven that Carolina GM Jim Rutherford was on the right track when he grabbed Skinner so early in the draft. In 26 games, he has 8 goals and 12 assists to lead the rookie-scoring race with 20 points. He is taking a regular shift in Carolina, averaging over 17 minutes in ice-time, and as a major part of their offence, Skinner is certainly one to watch in 2010.

Jordan Eberle - Edmonton Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers are always interested in players that proudly wear the national colours for Hockey Canada, and Jordan Eberle is his generation’s Captain Canada. He has been a force on the world stage with Canada’s junior team and that experience has translated into a fast start in the NHL. In 26 games, Eberle has 5 goals and 13 assists with the up and coming Oilers.

A star with the Regina Pats in the WHL, the young right-winger was a first round selection (22nd overall) in the 2008 Draft. During his final year in junior, he scored 50 goals and added 56 assists, which brought him the title of CHL Player of the Year in 2010. With a gold and silver medal at the World Junior Championship in 2009 and 2010 on his lengthy list of accomplishments, he was also named the Tournament MVP at the 2010 WJC. He is Canada’s all-time leading scorer at the tournament with 18 goals and 18 assists.

Like Skinner in Carolina, Eberle is seeing plenty of ice-time in Edmonton; averaging almost 19 minutes per game. While there will be some highs and lows in Edmonton this year as they rebuild their team for the future, as a focal point of the offence, Eberle should continue to find the net and be in the hunt for the Calder Trophy all season.

The Voice of Sport at The Hockey Writers: Ottawa's Lack of Goals Leads to New Franchise Record

2010-12-06T19:24:00.000-05:00

Sens Need More Goals From
Players Like Mike Fisher
(Dan4th/Flickr)

The Ottawa Senators have struggled to find any consistency in the offensive zone in recent weeks and they have dropped in the Eastern Conference standings with a 3-6-1 record in their last ten games. Outscored 28-13 during that time, the Senators are in desperate need of a top-six forward, or they risk falling further in the standings and out of the playoff race.

Read about the Senators and their inability to find the net at The Hockey Writers

The Voice of Sport at The Hockey Writers: Dany Heatley Returns To Ottawa

2010-12-01T14:55:00.000-05:00

Heatley Returns to Ottawa
Photo by Dan4th/Flickr

Hockey fans in Ottawa circled December 2nd on their calendars when the NHL released the schedule for this year - Dany Heatley finally returns to Ottawa as a member of the San Jose Sharks. The all-star forward can expect a chilly reception in the nation's capital.

Read about Dany Heatley's return to Ottawa at The Hockey Writers

Montreal Alouettes Return Home As Grey Cup Champions

2010-12-01T12:20:00.000-05:00

This article was first published in the December 1st edition of Main Street Week and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper or sign up and have Main Street Week delivered right to your inbox.

The Montreal Alouettes played two pre-season games, eighteen regular season games, and the Eastern Division Final to earn the right to play in the 98th Grey Cup against the Saskatchewan Roughriders in Edmonton’s Commonwealth Stadium. After so many games, it is hard to believe that going into the final 15 minutes of their season, they were locked at 11-11 with the Roughriders; one quarter of football would decide whether they ended their year as champions once again. The last time the Grey Cup was tied going into the final quarter was 1972 - a 10-10 deadlock between the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the Roughriders.

Heading into the season, the Alouettes made it very clear that they did not see another trip to the Grey Cup as an opportunity to win back-to-back championships. It was a new year and a new team; last year’s victory belonged to last year’s team. However, with three consecutive trips to the league championship and victories in the last two, it may be time to start using the word “dynasty” when describing the Alouettes organization.

Once again, it was the arm of veteran quarterback Anthony Calvillo that led the Alouettes to a 21-18 win over Saskatchewan. He completed 29 of his 42 pass attempts for 336 passing yards. The Grey Cup’s Most Valuable Player was Montreal wide receiver Jamal Richardson - catching eight of Calvillo’s passes for 108 yards. Running back Avon Cobourne scored both of Montreal’s touchdowns with runs of three yards and two yards, he would finish the game with 67 rushing yards on 15 carries.

After two tremendous offensive battles in their regular season match-ups, a 54-51 Saskatchewan victory on July 1, and a 30-26 Montreal win in the rematch on August 6, the defence stole the show for much of the game in the Grey Cup. The Saskatchewan defenders reached Calvillo on three occasions for the sack and limited his options for much of the game. The same can be said of Montreal’s defence; while they only sacked Darian Durant once, they limited him to 215 passing yards and the normally dangerous rushing QB was limited to just eight yards on the ground.

The story that emerged after the game is the one that football fans in every CFL city will remember when looking back at the 98th Grey Cup for years to come. Not only had Anthony Calvillo battled the elements and the opposition to become the fifth QB in CFL history to lead his team to back-to-back championships, he did so with a tremendous weight on his mind. Calvillo revealed that he has known since his sternum injury at mid-season that he would require surgery once the season concluded. A lesion on his thyroid had been discovered, the biopsy was inconclusive and part of his thyroid must be removed before it is known whether the lesion is malignant or benign.

Having already helped his wife battle cancer during the 2007 season, the strain and the weight of such news would break most people - but not Calvillo. Instead, he went to work, capping off one of his best years statistically with the third Grey Cup title of his career. If the Montreal Alouettes have indeed become a football dynasty, there is no doubt that Calvillo is the Emperor.

The Voice of Sport at The Hockey Writers: My Interview With AHL Veteran Bryan Helmer

2010-11-28T10:42:00.000-05:00

TVOS with Bryan and the Calder Cup

As the month of November ends, the last place AHL veteran Bryan Helmer expected to be was at home waiting for a contract offer. On the verge of several milestones, the three-time Calder Cup champion is staying positive as he faces several difficult decisions regarding his hockey future.

Read my interview with Bryan Helmer at The Hockey Writers

The Voice of Sport at The Hockey Writers: Lanny McDonald Interview - Ask the Alumni

2010-11-25T12:40:00.000-05:00

Photo courtesy of NHL Alumni Association

My first guest for the "Ask the Alumni" series at The Hockey Writers was Hockey Hall of Fame member and Stanley Cup champion Lanny McDonald. Hockey fans were invited to send in a question for the hockey legend - here are your answers...

Read the Lanny McDonald "Ask the Alumni" interview at The Hockey Writers

The Voice of Sport at The Hockey Writers: 1,000 Career Points for Alex Kovalev

2010-11-23T17:07:00.000-05:00

The Season of milestones continued for the Ottawa Senators last night, as Alex Kovalev reached the 1,000-career point plateau. With a goal and an assist in a 3-2 victory over the Los Angeles Kings, Kovalev joined teammate Daniel Alfredsson in the exclusive 1,000 point club.

Read about Kovalev and his milestone at The Hockey Writers

The Voice of Sport at The Hockey Writers: Difficult Week For The Ottawa Senators

2010-11-20T21:17:00.000-05:00

The Ottawa Senators struggled through a difficult week, as they carried heavy hearts into three road games after the death of assistant coach Luke Richardson's daughter. With losses in Philadelphia, Carolina, and St. Louis, the Sens must attempt to regroup in time for Monday's home game against the Los Angeles Kings. Ottawa was outscored 17-4 in their last three games.

Read about the Ottawa Senators and their difficult week at The Hockey Writers.

Montreal Alouettes Ready For Eastern Final Showdown With Toronto

2010-11-19T18:13:00.000-05:00

This article was first published in the November 17th edition of Main Street Week and is reprinted here with permission from the editors. Drop by Main Street Week News to have a look at a great community newspaper or sign up and have Main Street Week delivered right to your inbox.

With a 12-6 record and another East Division title on their resumé, the Montreal Alouettes earned a week off in the first round of the CFL playoffs. While the Alouettes took care of their bumps and bruises, and any nagging injuries from a long season, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (9-9) and Toronto Argonauts (9-9) battled for the opportunity to advance to the Eastern Final and a showdown with Montreal at the Olympic Stadium on November 21st; the winner advances to the 98th Annual Grey Cup in Edmonton, Alberta.

The Alouettes were solid defensively this season, stopping the running backs of their opponents on a regular basis; allowing the fewest rushing touchdowns of any team in the CFL and less then 100 rushing yards against per game. Statistically, they were not as good defending the pass, only Hamilton allowed more passing yards per game then Montreal, but the Alouettes led the league in interceptions with 25. They may give up yards through the air, but they find a way to steal the ball back. In the CFL, winning the turnover battle often results in victories.

Despite the absence of Anthony Calvillo for several games this season, Montreal ranked second in the CFL in total net yards, field goals, passing touchdowns, and most importantly - total points scored. Calvillo missed two games with a bruised sternum, but still passed for almost 5,000 yards and 32 touchdowns, with only seven interceptions. Once again, he is a nominee for the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player Award.

As previously mentioned, the Tiger-Cats and Argonauts met at Hamilton’s Ivor-Wynne Stadium last Sunday (November 14th), with the Argonauts winning a close game by a 16-13 score. Coming off a 3-15 season last year, the Argonauts have struggled offensively, but they remain a dangerous opponent for Montreal. They are very good at returning kicks, giving themselves great field position when they start on offence, and their run game is dangerous; Cory Boyd finished second in the league in rushing with 1,359 rushing yards.

In his first season in the CFL, Toronto QB Cleo Lemon struggled in the pass-oriented league, but the good field position from kick-off returns and Boyd’s rushing abilities helped the Argonauts overcome any deficiencies in Lemon’s game. The Toronto QB passed for 3,433 yards but threw only 15 touchdowns and racked up 19 interceptions. The Alouettes defence will be looking to pick-off his errant passes, and knowing that Lemon has struggled as a passer, they can concentrate on stopping the running game.

When looking ahead to the Eastern Final, there are two important factors to consider. One is the fact the Alouettes are moving indoors to the Olympic Stadium. With an expected crowd in the 50,000 range, the stadium is going to be loud, which will be a huge advantage for Montreal. Another factor that could work against the Alouettes was the final two weeks of the CFL schedule. The final two games of the year were against Toronto and that provides the Argonauts with plenty of video to review and create a new game plan as they try for the upset in Montreal. Of course, it works both ways; Montreal has plenty of video on the Argonauts too.

It should make for an exciting Eastern Final, with the winner heading to Edmonton to face the winner of the Western Final, either the Calgary Stampeders (13-5) or the Saskatchewan Roughriders (10-8). The Alouettes look poised to be in their third consecutive Grey Cup game, they lost to Calgary in 2008 and defeated Saskatchewan in dramatic fashion in 2009. In the CFL, anything can happen, and it usually does - it looks like we are in for a tremendous finish to the 2010 season.