MnJHL officials rewarded by USA Hockey and the NHL

 

June 20, 2009

 

USA Hockey and the National Hockey League have announced the officials selected to attend the 2009 North American Officiating Program of Merit in Rochester, NY, July 7th-14th.

 

The camp is used to evaluate officiating talent from North America and gives the NHL a chance to look at possible officials to join the highest ranks.

 

The MJHL and USA Hockey again leads with the number of officials who will be attending with 6 of 12 officials coming from the USA Hockey Officiating Development Program and five of six who worked in the MJHL.

 

Referees Justin Brown (Roseville, MN); Boone Bruggman (Wenatchee, WA); Nick Krebsbach (Minot, ND) will join linesmen Dana Penkivech (Apple Valley, MN) and Judson Ritter ( Des Moines , IA ).

 

Officials from the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, the Ontario Hockey League and the Western Hockey League will also be in attendance.

 

USA Hockey and the MJHL will be announcing a significant amount of officials moving into professional hockey from this seasons officiating staff at a later date.

 

Obviously it's a great honor for our officials to be recognized by USA Hockey and the NHL, said USA Hockey Officiating Development Program Coordinator Scott Brand. We wish them the best of luck at camp.

 

Willner takes coaching reins in Granite City

May 7, 2009

The Granite City Lumberjacks have announced that Brad Willner has been named the team’s new head coach and general manager.

Willner spent the last four years behind the Alexandria Blizzard’s bench, leading the NAHL club to four consecutive playoff appearances. He finished with an overall record of 107-109-20 during his tenure, including an 11-16 postseason mark.

“We couldn’t be happier to have Brad on board,” said Lumberjacks president John Hall.  “The opportunity to have a coach of his caliber lead our team is a huge asset to the Granite City Lumberjacks organization.”

Willner’s run in Alexandria was highlighted last season when the Blizzard bested both the Southern Minnesota Express and the Springfield Jr. Blues to win the NAHL’s Central Division playoff championship, earning a berth to the Robertson Cup Championship Tournament.

As a player, Willner, a defenseman from Richfield, Minn., skated four years at Lake Superior State University (CCHA) from 1991-95.  He played one season of professional hockey in 1995-96, splitting time between the ECHL’s Raleigh Icecaps and the AHL’s Albany River Rats.

“This is an exciting opportunity,” said Willner.  “The Lumberjacks are a great organization and a great organization to work for.  I’m looking forward to continuing the winning tradition they’ve established.”

This past season, the Lumberjacks won the MJHL’s regular-season championship and advanced to the Final Four at the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Championships.

Another successful campaign for MJHL
Competitive balance, player development highlight 2008-09

April 26, 2009

The Minnesota Junior Hockey League enjoyed one of its most successful seasons ever in 2008-09, both in terms of competitive balance and player development.

“It was an outstanding year for us,” said MJHL commissioner Bob Breu. “Every one of our programs raised the bar collectively to make this a meaningful season for everyone, most importantly our student-athletes.”

On the ice, the Minnesota Ice Hawks’ string of four straight regular-season championships was snapped, as the Granite City Lumberjacks, coached by Brent Boerger, finished with a league-best 41-5-2 record, good for 84 points - two more than the Ice Hawks.

In the Bush Cup Playoffs, however, the Nick Fatis-led Ice Hawks downed the Lumberjacks in the finals, 2 games to 1, in an evenly matched series that saw two games go into overtime and the other decided with 18 seconds left in regulation.

“You couldn’t have scripted a better finals than that,” said Breu. “It was awesome.”

Fittingly, both the Lumberjacks and Ice Hawks represented the MJHL at the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament in Massachusetts. No stranger to the event, the Ice Hawks, making their sixth straight appearance, finished with a 2-1 record. MORE

Lakers relocate to Minnesota Made
MJHL team will call Edina facility home

April 10, 2009

The Lakers will hold their upcoming tryouts at Minnesota Made, located in Edina, Minn.

The Lakers of the Minnesota Junior Hockey League have announced that the team has relocated from the Inver Grove Heights Community Center to the Minnesota Made Ice Center, located in Edina.
 
The team will hold its upcoming tryouts and play its 2009-10 home schedule at its new facility.
 
Minnesota Made Hockey specializes in training and motivating youth hockey players of all abilities to dream, set goals, and strive to achieve those goals.  Since 1993, by focusing on being the best hockey academy in the state, Minnesota Made has also grown to be the largest.
 
“The Lakers’ move from a community arena to a hockey player development center is more than exciting,” said Lakers president Ralph Hayne.  “I've heard nothing but good things regarding the programs at Minnesota Made. We plan to build a junior hockey team that fosters many of the same player development principles and practices that the Minnesota Made programs are known for.”
 
“Minnesota Made Ice Center is excited to welcome the Lakers Junior A hockey club to our facility,” said Bernie McBain of Minnesota Made hockey.  “The Lakers bring another level of hockey competition to our arena and we look forward to providing a quality facility for their needs.  We hope their presence is motivating and inspiring to our younger athletes and we hope to help promote junior hockey in Minnesota.”
 
Minnesota Made has grown to host over 50 clinics yearly for athletes ages 3 through 18.  It is home to 21 AAA hockey teams, which focus on skill development and boast many of the best players in the state at their age levels. MORE

Granite City falls in National semis
Lumberjacks finish with 2-1-1 mark in Massachusetts

March 30, 2009

The Granite City Lumberjacks lost in the semifinals of the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament to the EJHL’s New Hampshire Monarchs, 4-2, on Monday at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

Tyler Wahl recorded a goal and an assist for the Lumberjacks, with Bobby Thompson connecting for the other Granite City marker.  Goaltender Justin Lochner made 36 saves in the loss.

The Lumberjacks finished the tournament with a 2-1-1 record.

The Monarchs will play the EJHL’s New Jersey Hitmen for the national championship on Tuesday (9:45 a.m.).

Lumberjacks advance to National semis
Granite City moves on after OT win; Ice Hawks finish 2-1

March 29, 2009

The Granite City Lumberjacks advanced to the semifinals of the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament after finishing with a 2-0-1 record in round-robin play at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

Tyler Sura’s overtime goal lifted the Lumberjacks to a 6-5 victory over the AJHL’s Northern Cyclones in Game 3 of the round robin on Sunday.  Bobby Thompson recorded a goal and two assists in the victory, and Monte French added a goal and an assist. Between the pipes, Justin Lochner made 45 saves. 

The Lumberjacks will play the EJHL’s New Hampshire Monarchs in the first semifinal on Monday (12 p.m.). The winner of that game will play the winner of the other semifinals contest between the CSHL’s Dubuque ThunderBirds and EJHL’s New Jersey Hitmen for the national championship on Tuesday.

The Minnesota Ice Hawks finished with a 2-1 mark at the national tournament after their 5-1 loss to the Hitmen on Sunday.  Danny Grady scored the lone Minnesota marker with Tyler Groth and Korby Anderson assisting, and goaltender Alex Bjerk made 33 saves.

MJHL moves to 3-0-1 at Nationals
Ice Hawks, Lumberjacks skate to Day 2 wins

March 28, 2009

The MJHL moved to 3-0-1 at the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament after both the Minnesota Ice Hawks and Granite City Lumberjacks won their Day 2 games at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass., on Saturday.

The Lumberjacks bested the NorPac’s Seattle Totems, 3-2, as Ryan Gauthier, Matt Johnson and Fred Bidinger scored for Granite City.  In goal, Josh Smith made 19 saves.

Goaltender Alex Bjerk turned aside all 29 shots as the Ice Hawks blanked the WSHL’s Phoenix Polar Bears, 2-0.  Korby Anderson and Shaun Walters scored in the victory.

On the final day of the three-day round robin on Sunday, the Ice Hawks will face off against the EJHL’s New Jersey Hitmen (3:30 p.m.) and the Lumberjacks will play the AJHL’s Northern Cyclones (6:30 p.m.).

MJHL goes 1-0-1 on Day 1 at Nationals
Ice Hawks skate to victory; Lumberjacks tie

March 27, 2009

The Minnesota Junior Hockey League finished 1-0-1 on Day 1 of the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

The Minnesota Ice Hawks won a 5-1 decision over the St. Louis Jr. Blues (CSHL), while the Granite City Lumberjacks and the Dubuque ThunderBirds (CSHL) skated to a 1-1 tie.

Shaun Walters struck for a pair of goals in the Ice Hawks’ win, including the game-winner, and Danny Grady tallied a goal and an assist. Between the pipes, Alex Bjerk made 29 saves.

Monte French and Shane Doerfler scored for the Lumberjacks, and goaltender Justin Lochner turned aside 35 shots.

The Ice Hawks will square of against the WSHL’s Phoenix Polar Bears (4 p.m.) on Saturday, and the Lumberjacks will take on the NorPac’s Seattle Totems (1:30 p.m.)

Ice Hawks win Bush Cup championship
Foss' OT tally lifts Minnesota to playoff title

March 21, 2009

The Minnesota Ice Hawks won the Bush Cup playoff championship with a 2-1 series win over Granite City.PHOTO/ESP1000.com

The Minnesota Ice Hawks were crowned Bush Cup champions after their 5-4 overtime victory over the Granite City Lumberjacks in the series’ decisive Game 3 on Saturday night.

Dirk Foss scored the game-winner in the extra session for the Ice Hawks, with Adam Wiesner adding two goals of his own.  Bobby Thompson struck for two goals for Granite City.

In goal, the Ice Hawks’ Alex Bjerk turned aside 27 shots; the Lumberjacks’ Justin Lochner made 39 saves.

"What a series for the fans," said Ice Hawks head coach Nick Fatis. "Every game was decided by the last shot of the game; I don't know if I've ever seen that before."

Both the Lumberjacks and the Ice Hawks will represent the MJHL at the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament, which will be held March 27-31 at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

"We feel pretty good heading into Nationals, but we know feeling good isn't going to win us a game in Boston," said Fatis. "We've got to come to play and get a few bounces to do some damage.

"I'm so proud of these guys, and Boston is icing on the cake for us. All the hard work and discipline we've put on these guys paid off. Now, on to Boston; it's going to be a great trip."

Ice Hawks even Bush Cup Finals series
Decisive Game 3 set for Saturday in St. Cloud

March 20, 2009

Robby Dah's game-winner on Friday forced a Game 3 in the quest for the MJHL's Bush Cup Championship.PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Robby Dahl’s goal with 18 seconds left in regulation propelled the Minnesota Ice Hawks to a 3-2 victory over the Granite City Lumberjacks in Game 2 of the Bush Cup finals, evening the best-of-three series at 1-1.

Korby Anderson and George Jackson rang up the other Minnesota markers, and Zach Borowski and Andrew Peterson scored for the Lumberjacks.

Between the pipes, the Ice Hawks’ Alex Bjerk made 36 saves; Granite City’s Justin Lochner stopped 50 shots.

The series’ decisive Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday, March 21 in St. Cloud (8:30 p.m.).

Both the Lumberjacks and the Ice Hawks will represent the MJHL at the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament, which will be held March 27-31 at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

 

 

Lumberjacks take Game 1 of finals
Borowski's OT tally gives Granite City series lead

March 18, 2009

The Lumberjacks celebrate Zach Borowski's overtime goal in Game 1 of the Bush Cup Finals.PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Zach Borowski’s overtime goal lifted the Granite City Lumberjacks to a 6-5 victory over the Minnesota Ice Hawks in Game 1 of the Bush Cup Finals.

Six different Lumberjacks scored in the win, and goaltender Justin Lochner turned aside 38 shots.  KC Kranz notched a goal and two assists for the Ice Hawks.

Game 2 of the best-of-three series is scheduled for Friday, March 20 in Rochester (8:30 p.m.).

Both the Lumberjacks and the Ice Hawks will represent the MJHL at the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament, which will be held March 27-31 at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

Bush Cup Finals schedule announced
Series to begin on Wednesday in St. Cloud

March 16, 2009

The Minnesota Junior Hockey League announced today the schedule for the best-of-three Bush Cup Playoff Finals between the Minnesota Ice Hawks and the Granite City Lumberjacks.

The series will commence on Wednesday, March 18 in St. Cloud, Minn., with Game 2 slated for Rochester, Minn., on Friday, March 20.  Game 3 (if necessary) is scheduled for St. Cloud on Saturday, March 21.

Both the regular-season champion Lumberjacks and the Ice Hawks  will represent the MJHL at the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament, which will be held March 27-31 at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

Click here for the Bush Cup Playoff Finals schedule.

Ice Hawks headed to national tournament
Minnesota, Granite City vie for MJHL playoff championship

March 15, 2009

The Ice Hawks celebrate Adam Wiesner's overtime goal that punched Minnesota's ticket to the national tournament.PHOTO/ESP1000.com

The Minnesota Ice Hawks earned the MJHL’s second bid to the USA Hockey Tier III Junior National Tournament after their 4-3 overtime victory over the Minnesota Owls in the decisive Game 3 of their semifinals series on Sunday.

The Ice Hawks will join the regular-season champion Granite City Lumberjacks, who won their semifinals series over the Wisconsin Mustangs, at the national tournament, which will be held March 27-31 at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

The Lumberjacks and the Ice Hawks will play for the MJHL playoff championship in a best-of-three series commencing this week.

Adam Wiesner connected for the overtime winner in Game 3 for the Ice Hawks, with Shaun Walters, Dirk Foss and Cory Volk notching the other goals. Alex Bjerk made 46 saves in regulation and overtime. MORE

2008-09 All-MJHL Team announced
Owls' Ronsberg named Player of the Year

March 10, 2009

MJHL Player of the Year Seth Ronsberg PHOTO/ESP1000.com

The Minnesota Junior Hockey League announced today the 20-man All-MJHL Team for the 2008-09 season, as selected by MJHL coaches and general managers.

In addition, Minnesota Owls forward Seth Ronsberg was named the Player of the Year.  The 17-year-old from Lake Elmo, Minn., who started the season with the Minnesota Wildcats led the league in scoring with 48 goals and 53 assists (101 points) in 52 games.

“Seth was a dominant offensive force all season and he’s very deserving of this recognition,” said Owls head coach Chad Kuznia.  “As talented of a player as he is, he’s an even better teammate.  There’s no question he has a very bright future ahead of him.”

Click here for the 2008-09 All-MJHL Team.

Semifinals playoff schedule announced
Lumberjacks, Mustangs start Wednesday; Owls, Ice Hawks begin Friday

March 9, 2009

The Minnesota Junior Hockey League announced today the schedule for the semifinals round of the MJHL playoffs.

In the best-of-three semis, the No. 1-seed Granite City Lumberjacks will face off against the No. 4 Wisconsin Mustangs, while the No. 2-seed Minnesota Ice Hawks will play the No. 3 Minnesota Owls.

The playoff champion will earn the MJHL’s second berth to the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament, which will be held March 27-31 at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

If the Lumberjacks, who secured the league’s first berth to Nationals by way of their regular-season title, also win the playoff championship, the playoff runner-up will represent the MJHL in Massachusetts, along with Granite City.

Click here for the semifinals playoff schedule.

Four teams advance to semifinals
Lumberjacks, Ice Hawks, Owls, Mustangs skate to opening-round playoff wins

March 8, 2009

The Mustangs advanced to the playoff semis after their 2-games-to-1 series win over Twin Cities.PHOTO/ESP1000.com

The Granite City Lumberjacks, Minnesota Ice Hawks, Minnesota Owls and Wisconsin Mustangs advanced to the best-of-three semifinal round of the MJHL playoffs after winning their best-of-three opening-round series last weekend.

It took all three games for No. 4-seed Wisconsin to dispose of the Twin Cities Northern Lights, culminating in a 3-1 triumph in Game 3 on Sunday.  Loren Egan tallied the game-winning goal for the Mustangs, and Kevin Anger added two assists. In goal, netminder Jon McLean made 19 saves.

McLean stopped all 21 shots as the Mustangs blanked the Northern Lights in Game 1 on Friday, 3-0.   Tim Benner scored a pair of goals for Wisconsin, and Jake Calleja added two assists.

Dan Shilts’ overtime goal lifted the Lights to a 4-3 triumph in Game 2.  Erik Ordahl connected for three assists in the win, including one on Shilts’ winner, and goaltender Brian Nelson made 40 saves.

The No. 2-seed Ice Hawks skated to a two-game sweep over the Hudson Crusaders, starting with a 6-0 victory on Friday.  Goaltender Alex Bjerk made all 26 saves in the win, and Shawn Wick struck for a goal and two assists.

The next night, the Ice Hawks doubled up the Crusaders, 4-2.  Four different players scored for Minnesota, with Ricky Litchfield connecting for the game-winning goal and an assist.  Bjerk turned back 38 shots in goal.

The Owls, the No. 3 seed, also advanced to the semifinals after their two-game sweep of the Minnesota Flying Aces, beginning with a 12-1 win on Friday. Jacob Pumper, Jakub Simicek, Joshua Pettit and John Orrico all notched two goals in the triumph, and goaltenders Aaron Corey and Kevin Sillfors combined to stop 22 shots. MORE

First-round playoff schedule announced
Play-in game set for Wednesday; Quarterfinals begin Friday

February 29, 2009

The Minnesota Junior Hockey League announced today the schedule for the first round of the playoffs.

The postseason commences with a play-in game on March 4 between the Minnesota Wildcats and the St. Paul Lakers.  The winner of that game will advance to a best-of-three quarterfinal series against the regular-season champion Granite City Lumberjacks.

The remaining three best-of-three quarterfinal series - Minnesota Ice Hawks vs. Hudson Crusaders; Minnesota Owls vs. Minnesota Flying Aces; Wisconsin Mustangs vs. Twin Cities Northern Lights - will be played on March 6-7 with the third game, if necessary, scheduled for March 8.

The quarterfinal winners will advance to the best-of-three semifinals, with the semis winners advancing to the best-of-three finals.

The playoff champion will earn the MJHL’s second berth to the USA Hockey Tier III Junior A National Tournament, which will be held March 27-31 at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

If the Lumberjacks, who secured the league’s first berth to Nationals by way of their regular-season title, also win the playoff championship, the playoff runner-up will represent the MJHL in Massachusetts, along with Granite City.

Click here for the first-round playoff schedule.

Lumberjacks win regular-season crown
Granite City earns league's first berth to national tournament

February 28, 2009

The Lumberjacks will head to Massachusetts to compete in the Tier III Junior A National Tournament.PHOTO/ESP1000.com

The Granite City Lumberjacks were crowned regular-season champions of the MJHL after their 3-0 win over the Minnesota Owls on Friday night.

With the title, the Lumberjacks secure one of the league’s two berths to the upcoming Tier III Junior A National Tournament, which will be held March 27-31 at the New England Sports Complex in Marlboro, Mass.

The MJHL’s playoff champion will be the league’s second representative at Nationals.  If the Lumberjacks also win the playoff title, the runner-up of the playoff finals will join Granite City at the national tournament.

In their victory over the Owls, goaltender Justin Lochner turned aside all 37 shots to earn the shutout.  Alex Naujokas, Tyler Wahl and Monte French connected for the Granite City goals.

"The guys have worked very hard all season and have been very consistent in their efforts throughout the season," said Lumberjacks head coach Brent Boerger. "Honestly, our kids were happy about the win, but I think they're looking forward towards the playoffs coming up."

Wildcats stick to developmental plan
Bright futures in store for young Minnesota team

February 24, 2009

The Wildcats put an emphasis on youth when it comes to grooming their student-athletes.PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Despite only 10 wins heading into the last weekend of the regular season, the Minnesota Wildcats have nothing but good things to reflect on as their first campaign nears its end.

“Our inaugural season was a blast and successful on many fronts,” said Wildcats head coach Stu Ronsberg.

In addition to acknowledging their dedicated fans and much-improved roster, the Wildcats are perhaps most proud of the players they’ve developed throughout the season.

After advancing two players to higher levels this season, the team also gave three standouts - Seth Ronsberg and Justin Brausen, both of whom were traded to the Minnesota Owls, and Shay Klitzke, who was dealt to the Northern Pacific Junior League - an opportunity to compete for a national tournament bid.

“And, at the end of the season, we'll have three or four more 17- to 20-year- olds that will be moving onto college hockey, the NAHL, and potentially the USHL next season,” said Ronsberg.

Plain and simple, the Wildcats develop the players they have, meaning that after the season starts, they don’t bring in players to replace those that have committed to the program since Day 1.

“Our athletes appreciate the fact that our roster didn’t turn over through the season like other teams did,” said Ronsberg.  “They appreciate the fact that they didn’t continue to see new players from other leagues replace their linemates or be replaced themselves at any given time throughout the year.”

And that committed group impressed Ronsberg and his staff the entire season, both with their work ethic and coachability.

February 17, 2009

Despite their record, the Lakers are proud of their proven track record of development.PHOTO/ESP1000.com

The St. Paul Lakers might be anchored near the bottom of the MJHL standings with only a couple of weeks left in the regular season, but optimism is still sky high as the program looks ahead.

“We knew this year was the start of a rebuilding process,” said Lakers general manager Steve Longren, “and we’re taking it one step at a time and doing things the right way.”

The Lakers, the last MJHL team to win a USA Hockey national championship back in 1999, brought a new coach into the fold this season in Dan Strot, who has slowly but surely molded the team into worthy opponents.

“We’ve overcome the reputation of not being competitive and we can play with any team in league,” said Strot, noting his club’s two recent losses to the powerhouse Minnesota Ice Hawks by 3-2 and 2-1 counts.  “That’s a result of every player on our team improving all aspects of their game.”

And that’s what most important to the Lakers, who put structure and development ahead of anything else when it comes to grooming their student-athletes.

“Our primary goal is to develop players to move up and allow them to play at the highest level possible,” Longren said.  “We're serious about giving kids a chance to play and develop into players even if this costs the team financially or in the win-loss column by letting our best players go.”

“We want each and every player to have a positive experience," echoed Lakers president Ralph Hayne. “If they aren't having a positive experience, we want to work to move them to an environment that meets their needs. This happens quickly and, again, sometimes at a cost to the team financially or in the win-loss column.” MORE

Owls heat up as playoffs near
Streaking Minnesota brimming with confidence

February 10, 2009

Unheralded Nick Haley has played a big role in the Owls' success this season.PHOTO/ESP1000.com

There’s no better time to get hot than February, and the Minnesota Owls have done just that, rolling off four wins in a row, including three last weekend.

“Taking three games in three nights is no easy task in this league, so it was definitely rewarding,” said Owls head coach Chad Kuznia, whose team improved to 26-13-0-2 on the season.  “We’re playing our best hockey of the season right now and I think our record over the past couple of weeks reflects that.”

The Owls began their perfect weekend with a 5-4 triumph over the Hudson Crusaders on Friday.  Five different players lit the lamp for Minnesota, including John Orrico, who connected for the third-period game-winner.  In goal, Kevin Sillfors stopped 24 shots.

Orrico, Seth Ronsberg (game-winner) and Jakub Simicek each notched a goal and an assist as the Owls downed the Minnesota Flying Aces the next night, 4-3.  Between the pipes, Aaron Corey made 26 saves.

On Sunday, Justin Brausen racked up three goals and three assists in the Owls’ 12-4 victory over the Minnesota Wildcats.  Simicek added two goals in the win, and Corey turned back 30 shots.

“We’re getting contributions from everyone, and I think that’s making a huge difference,” said Kuznia.  “When you can roll so many different guys our there and have confidence in each and every one of them, it makes life a lot easier for everybody.”

The Owls also made waves recently by picking up two of the highest-scoring forwards in the league in Ronsberg and Brausen, both of whom were acquired from the Minnesota Wildcats.

“Those two are difference-makers, there’s no question about it,” said Kuznia.  “When you can add that kind of offense to your team, it’s going to help and it certainly did last weekend.” MORE

Northern Lights gaining momentum
Twin Cities rebounds from slow start to 2009

February 3, 2009

Nate Percy has evolved into one of the Northern Lights' top offensive threats.PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Ringing in the New Year with an 0-5 start wasn’t exactly what the Twin Cities Northern Lights had planned, but the team has since rebounded, posting a 6-2 mark in its last eight games.

“We came back from break a little slow,” said Northern Lights head coach AJ Degenhardt, whose team holds an 18-17-1-2 record.  “But we've now adjusted and refocused and are looking to make a push going into the playoffs.”

On Wednesday, Lane Mahoney’s overtime goal lifted the Northern Lights to a 2-1 win over the Hudson Crusaders.  Kyle Vesling notched the other TC marker, and goaltender Drew Chaney made 12 saves.

The Northern Lights followed that up with another win on Saturday, downing the Wisconsin Mustangs, 5-3. Nate Percy rang up two goals and an assist for Twin Cities, with Brett Tobin recording the game-winning marker and an assist. In goal, Brian Nelson made 40 saves.

“Our guys have made tremendous strides since the beginning of the season,” said Degenhardt.  “I think the knowledge and understanding of the game they’re demonstrating will help us a lot come playoff time.

“We had a couple of recent changes in our lineup because of another NAHL call up (Josh Shingler to the Kenai River Brown Bears) and a few players leaving the team for various reasons.” MORE

Lumberjacks continue to roll
MJHL frontrunners pick up two more wins

January 27, 2009

Bobby Thompson struck for three goals last weekend for the Lumberjacks. PHOTO/ESP1000.com

With players from eight states gracing their roster, the Granite City Lumberjacks certainly spread their recruiting wings in attempt to put the most competitive team they can on the ice.

So far so good, as the team sits atop the MJHL standings with a 32-2-0-2 mark heading into the last weekend of January.

“Our talent just doesn’t come from Minnesota, but all across the United States,” said Lumberjacks head coach Brent Boerger. “These players have contributed to a big part of our success.”

And that success continued last weekend, as the Lumberjacks skated to two more wins, starting with a 4-3 victory over the St. Paul Lakers on Friday. Bobby Thompson rang up two goals in the triumph, with Kent Kirby supplying the game-winning marker and an assist. In goal, Justin Lochner made 21 saves.

On Sunday, four different players scored as the Lumberjacks bested the Wisconsin Mustangs, 4-3.  Alex Naujokas potted a goal and assisted on Tyler Sura’s game-winner, and Lochner steered aside 24 shots.

“Every night, we need to play at our best because you can see in the first half of the season how anybody can beat any team on any given night,” said Boerger.  “The talent level in the MJHL has grown to the point where you have to be dedicated to becoming a better hockey player to play at this level.” MORE

Ice Hawks begin second-half push
Minnesota starts 2009 with perfect 6-0 mark

January 20, 2009

Danny Grady's hat trick helped lift the Ice Hawks to an 8-1 win over Hudson last weekend. PHOTO/ESP1000.com

With a 6-0 record to start the New Year, the Minnesota Ice Hawks are rolling on all cylinders as the chase for their fifth straight MJHL championship hits full swing.

The Ice Hawks sit in second place in the standings with 58 points, two behind the front-running Granite City Lumberjacks with Minnesota having played two more games.

Danny Grady recorded a hat trick, including the game-winning goal, and an assist as the Ice Hawks blitzed the Hudson Crusaders in its only game of the weekend on Saturday, 8-1.  Tyler Groth chipped in two goals in the triumph, and goaltender Alex Bjerk turned aside 16 shots.

Offensively, the Ice Hawks have been led by Bryce Stevens, Adam Wiesner and Robby Dahl, all of whom are among the league leaders in scoring. 

At the other end of the ice, Bjerk has seen the lion’s share of the minutes in goal and has been phenomenal, picking up 15 of the team’s 29 wins. MORE

Aces ready to turn corner
Minnesota excited with new leadership behind bench

January 13, 2009

Flying Aces captain Tony Schultz leads the team in scoring. PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Winless in four tries to start 2009, the Minnesota Flying Aces are confident they’re close to getting back on the right track.

“The past couple of weekends have been rough for us in the win-loss column,” said Flying Aces head coach Bryan Henrichs, whose club dropped a pair of games last weekend. “The team has been playing good hockey, we just need a couple of bounces to go our way.”
 
The Aces have been lead all season be veteran captain Tony Shultz, with Nic Spenningsby, Eric Bishop, Adam Fisher, Elliot Martin, Kevin Bergquist and Luke Davis also delivering consistent efforts.

“They add strength to the team chemistry and work ethic,” said Henrichs, whose team holds a 14-17-0-2 record, good for 30 points and a fifth-place position in the MJHL standings.
 
One of the more recent additions to the team is Henrichs himself, who was named the club’s new head coach after the holiday break.  A former high school player at Centennial, Henrichs is no stranger to the MJHL having played in the circuit in the early 1990s for the North Suburban Jr. Hawks, now the Minnesota Owls.

“The goal for the remainder of the year will be to develop our players and have the team playing its best hockey heading into playoffs,” said the coach.  “With the team and the coaching staff progressing and learning about each other, I’m excited about our chances.” MORE

Crusaders poised for second-half success
Expectations high in Hudson after sluggish start

January 6, 2009

Sean Stewart connected for four goals in the Crusaders' 8-5 win over the Wildcats on Sunday. PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Slowed by injuries and inconsistency for the better part of the first half of the season, the Hudson Crusaders are finally healthy, rejuvenated, and ready to make a strong push as the postseason inches a little bit closer.

“There’s lots of character on this team,” said Crusaders head coach Don Babineau.  “I’ll tell you this is a tight group and a very close family. I never thought this was possible the first month of the season.”

The Crusaders got 2009 off on the right foot, downing the Minnesota Wildcats, 8-5, on Sunday in their only game of the weekend.  Sean Stewart unloaded for four goals in the triumph, with Keegan Blehm assisting on three of them.  Between the pipes, goaltender Ben Waalkens turned aside 25 shots.

“The guys continue to work hard everyday and are staying positive, too, and I know they’re on a mission the second half of the season,’ said Babineau, whose team is tied with the Wildcats in seventh place in the MJHL standings with 19 points.  “With a few new additions, in addition to the guys we started with, I think good things are going to happen.”

The Crusaders have been aided by the arrival of two of last season’s key veterans, forward Scott Leibsch and defenseman Gabe Pearson, along with high-scoring forward Justin Neis, who was picked up in a trade from the Minnesota Owls.

“I believe we’re now as deep as anyone in the league,” Babineau estimated.  “We became much stronger on offense as well as defense, and we finally have a full roster and almost everybody healthy.” MORE

Wildcats continue to stress development
Despite record, Minnesota encouraged with progress

December 22, 2008

One of the league's top scorers, the Wildcats' Justin Brausen is getting plenty of college interest. PHOTO/ESP1000.com

The Minnesota Wildcats might lag near the bottom of the MJHL standings heading into the holidays, but the team’s coaching staff couldn’t be more proud of the players it puts out on the ice each night.

“We all wish we had better numbers in the win column, but as a focused development program we’re extremely pleased with the effort, conduct and focus of all of our players,” said Wildcats head coach Stu Ronsberg.  “We’re impressed with the athletes we have. It’s the right mix that’s interested in not only winning, but also improving.”

And when it comes to progress, few have exhibited more than forwards Travis Raser and Matt Graves, as well as defenseman Tyler Erickson.

“Those three are a stable element of our defensive unit who have significantly raised their brand of play both offensively and defensively,” said Ronsberg.

Despite their record, the Wildcats boast three of the top offensive threats in the league in Justin Brausen, 20, Seth Ronsberg, 17, and Shay Klitzke, 19.  Dubbed the “go-to crew” by Stu Ronsberg, all three players rank among the top 10 in league scoring.

That’s grabbing the attention of college and higher level junior leagues, as Ronsberg reports that Brausen, from Little Canada, Minn., is getting interest from both Division I and III schools, while Lake Elmo product Seth Ronsberg is on the radar of USHL, NAHL and Division I programs.  Klitzke, of Annandale, Minn., is also starting to generate some “soft interest” from programs at the next level, according to Stu Ronsberg. MORE

Lakers moving in right direction
Slowly but surely, St. Paul starting to turn the corner

December 16, 2008

On and off the ice, Sean Randall has played a big role for the Lakers this season. PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Hampered by a slow start to their season, the St. Paul Lakers have shown continued progress in recent weeks, which has led to more consistent efforts and, consequently, more wins.

“We weren’t competitive early on and now we’re competing with any team on any given night,” said Lakers head coach Dan Strot.  “I’m pleased that all of the players have accepted the challenge to improve their skill levels and play as a team versus individual players.”

The Lakers latest triumph – their sixth of the season – came on Friday, against the Minnesota Wildcats.  Brandon Boyd’s hat trick, including the overtime game-winning goal, propelled St. Paul to its 7-6 victory.  Oscar Carlsson added a goal and an assist in the win, and Colin Longren made 40 saves between the pipes.

Strot was also encouraged with his team’s performance the next night, a 3-2 loss to the Minnesota Ice Hawks in which the Lakers fell just short of sending the game into overtime.

“We didn’t quit on either of those nights,” said Strot.  “We played as a team and committed to winning, and that was the difference.”

The Lakers have been brought to life with the emergence of a number of newcomers, among them Boyd, who was recently acquired from the Central States League’s Dubuque Thunderbirds.  The 18-year-old from Minnetonka, Minn., has eight goals in his last four games, including a pair of hat tricks.

“Brandon’s a highly-skilled forward who has a knack for finding the back of the net,” said Strot.

A number of other players who started their seasons with other MJHL teams have also found a home with the Lakers, including Cody Essel and Ryan Anderson, who were picked up in trades with the Wildcats, and Garret Ahlgrim and Tony Scheid, both former Ice Hawks. MORE

Owls get results in OT
Minnesota back on track after pair of losses

December 9, 2008

Jascha Pettit scored two goals in the Owls' win over the Crusaders on Saturday, including the overtime game-winner. PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Riding a two-game losing streak into the weekend, the Minnesota Owls broke out of their modest funk in dramatic fashion on Saturday, besting the Hudson Crusaders in overtime, 4-3.

“We certainly didn’t want to drop three straight, so that was big for us,” said Owls head coach Chad Kuznia.  “And to win it in overtime added a little extra emotion, so all in all it was good night.”

Jascha Pettit’s overtime goal – his second of the game – lifted the Owls to their victory.  Zach Morse registered a goal and an assist in the win, and netminder Aaron Corey steered aside 24 shots.

For Pettit, a 20-year-old from Wadina, Minn., it marked his sixth and seventh goals of the season.  He now has 22 points after 20 games this season.

“To see Josh step up like that and take control of the game was great to see,” said Kuznia.  “He’s a talented player and a great team player and we’re going to be looking for more good things from him in the second half of the season.”

Jacob Simicek, who connected for two assists in the Owls’ win over the Crusaders, has led the team’s offensive charge this season. The 20-year-old from Slovakia has 14 goals for 29 points after 22 games.

“Jacob is a gifted offensive player, and you don’t have to look any further than his stats to see that,” said Kuznia.  “When he’s on, it usually means good things for our team.”

At 13-9-0-2, the Owls are perched in the top half of the MJHL standings, 10 points behind the third-place Minnesota Ice Hawks.  Kuznia realizes there’s still plenty of work left on the table, but believes he has the right cast of characters to make a run towards to the top come March.

“When we all put out hands in the middle and play 60 minutes as a team, we’re as good as anyone, and that’s what we have to continually re-enforce,” said Kuznia.  “This league is too good to take nights off, so we need to come out every night with committed, consistent efforts if we’re going to be successful.” MORE

Mustangs get back on track
Wisconsin ends two-game slide

December 2, 2008

Steve Mlodozyniec recorded a hat trick in the Mustangs' win over the Crusaders on Saturday. PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Losers of two straight games, the Wisconsin Mustangs got back on track last weekend with a pair of victories.

Steve Mlodozyniec’s three-goal, one-assist performance propelled the Mustangs to a 6-2 triumph over the Hudson Crusaders on Saturday.  Jake Calleja added two assists in the win, and goaltender Kyle Johnson turned aside 31 shots.

The next day, Wisconsin skated to a 3-2 shootout win over the Minnesota Owls.  Even Nelson and Nic Belonger scored in regulation for the Mustangs, with Calleja assisting on both goals.  Johnson made 42 saves in regulation and overtime to pick up his second victory in as many days.

The first-place Granite City Lumberjacks rolled off two more wins last weekend, starting with an 8-1 triumph over the Minnesota Flying Aces on Friday.  Louis Tincher and Matt Johnson each recorded two goals for Granite City, and Kent Kirby added four assists.  Netminder Tyler Venne made 35 saves.

Six different players scored for the Lumberjacks the next night as they downed the St. Paul Lakers, 7-1.  Tyler Wahl connected for two goals and an assist in the win, and Venne turned aside 21 shots.

The Minnesota Wildcats also came alive with a pair of victories, including a 4-3 triumph over the Owls on Saturday.  Tyler Erickson potted two goals in the win, and Travis Raser notched the game-winner.  Goaltender Mark Rajevski stopped 43 shots in net. MORE

 

Lights finding their groove
Twin Cities riding four-game winning streak

November 25, 2008

Pennsylvania native Garrett Windle leads the Northern Lights in scoring. PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Winners of four straight games, including two last weekend, the Twin Cities Northern Lights are slowly but surely starting to put together consistent efforts on a regular basis, much to the delight of their coaching staff.

“It's great for us to get on this roll at the time we are,” said Northern Lights head coach AJ Degenhardt.  “We’ve been on wrong side of a lot of one-goal games recently, and I think we were lacking the confidence needed to win.”

They got the job done on Saturday, as five different players scored for the Lights in their 5-3 victory over the St. Paul Lakers.  Garrett Windle connected for a goal and an assist in the win, and goaltender Steve Loyd made 16 saves.

Jordan Gates struck for two goals the next day, including the game-winner, as the Lights downed the Wisconsin Mustangs, 5-1.  Josh Shingler added a goal and two assists, and goaltender Brian Nelson made 36 saves.

“Obviously I’d like our record to be a little better right now, but we’re heading in the right direction,” said Degenhardt, whose team sits at 11-7-0-2.  “It's good for the guys to get that confidence back and regain that winning attitude.

“There’s been continued progress since the beginning of the season with these young men,” Degenhardt added.  “We threw a lot of new things at them to start the season and it’s now starting to show in our play that we understand what’s being taught and that it works.” MORE

Veterans lead Lumberjacks' charge
Depth, balance have Granite City leading the pack

November 18, 2008

Granite City forward Tyler Wahl ranks fifth in league scoring. PHOTO/ESP1000.com

Experience can take you a long ways in the Minnesota Junior Hockey League win column. Just ask the Granite City Lumberjacks, who sit in first place with an impressive 18-2-0-2 record.

“We have a great group of veterans,” said Lumberjacks head coach Brent Boerger.  “They’re leading by example and doing what’s expected of them when they put the Lumberjacks sweater on.”

Among the experienced making a difference is Brady Borer, who potted two goals in the Lumberjacks’ 6-3 win over the Wisconsin Mustangs on Friday, including the game-winner, and Alex Naujokas, who added a goal and an assist in the win.

Other veterans who have keyed Granite City’s early success are Kent Kirby, Matt Johnson, Tyler Sura and Tyler Wahl, who ranks fifth in league scoring with eight goals for 30 points after 20 games.

“Tyler is having a nice season, and I think his numbers are little conservative because we don’t have to rely just on him for scoring,” Boerger said of the 20-year-old from Willmar, Minn.  “But I think he has the potential to have even better numbers in the second half of the season.”

And it’s that depth that makes the Lumberjacks one of the most dangerous teams in the league.  With 13 players registering 10 or more points on the season, Granite City can come at its opponents from every direction.

“It’s an advantage,” said Boerger.  “We don’t rely on any one line or any one player. At any given time, a player could be on first or fifth line in any game.  MORE