News

The OCN Blizzard are in the search for a marketing director. For additional information about responsibilities and salary interested applicants can call 1-204 627-7077.

SERIES E –  PORTAGE TERRIERS vs STEINBACH PISTONS Mar 24 Portage Terriers at Steinbach Pistons 7:30 pm Mar 26 Steinbach Pistons at Portage Terriers 4:30 pm Mar 29 Portage Terriers at Steinbach Pistons 7:30 pm Mar 31 Steinbach Pistons at Portage Terriers 7:30 pm April 2 Portage Terriers at Steinbach Pistons (if necess) 7:30 pm April 4 Steinbach Pistons at Portage Terriers (if necess) 7:30 pm April 5 Portage Terriers at Steinbach Pistons (if necess) 7:30 pm   SERIES F –  OCN BLIZZARD vs WINKLER FLYERS Mar 25 OCN Blizzard at Winkler Flyers 7:30 pm Mar 26 OCN Blizzard at Winkler Flyers 7:30 pm Mar 29 Winkler Flyers at OCN Blizzard 7:00 pm Mar 30 Winkler Flyers at OCN Blizzard 7:00 pm April 1 OCN Blizzard at Winkler FLyers  (if necess) 7:30 pm April 3 Winkler Flyers at OCN Blizzard (if necess) 7:00 pm April 5 OCN Blizzard at Winkler Flyers (if necess) 7:30 pm  

  The Virden Oil Capitals are proud to announce that graduating forward Carter Cowlthorp has committed to the Norwich University Cadets of the NCAA Div III Great Northeast Athletic Conference for next season. Cowlthorp, who hails from Boissevain arrived in Virden early in the 14/15 season from the SJHL’s Estevan Bruins. “I can speak on behalf of the whole organization on how thrilled we are that Carter will be going to a great program such as Norwich,” said GM & Head Coach Troy Leslie. In his three years in Virden, Cowlthorp appeared in over 161 games and is coming off a career year in which he registered 24 goals and 52 points. Along with the career high in points and goals, he was named the Oil Caps Redferns Hardest Working Player, along with picking up the Fountain Tire Fan’s Choice Award and the Arlington Hotel Three Star Award at last week’s Oil Caps Year End Banquet. “Carter has been a great representative of the Oil Capitals organization both on and off the ice,” added Leslie. “We wish him nothing but the best at Norwich and sincerely thank him for all he has brought to this organization.” In Norwich, Cowlthorp joins fellow Boissevain native and former Steinbach Piston David Robertson along with former Winnipeg Blues forward Taeron Lewis. Norwich is a private military college based in Northfield, Vermont. The Oil Capitals would like to congratulate Carter on this achievement and wish him the best of luck in his pursuit of education.

The Swan Valley Stampeders Jr. A Hockey Club are accepting resumes for the position of a full time GM/Head Coach. The candidate would be responsible for the overall direction of the hockey club. The ideal candidate will have a strong hockey background. Demonstrate leadership skills, strong business acumen and a strong focus on player development. For a detailed job description or more information regarding the position please contact Dave Kirk. Only candidates under consideration will be contacted. Please send resume to Dave Kirk, President, Swan Valley Stampeders Jr. A Hockey Club on or before April 21/17. dave.kirk@richardson.ca

Former Portage Terrier Nick Henry was recently awarded the Nick Papas Rookie of the Year by the Regina Pats. Henry, 17, lead Pat rookies in scoring most of the season. His regular linemates have been Sam Steel (WHL scoring leader) and Dawson Leedahl. Henry, who won the MJHL rookie of the year award ;last season, was second among all WHL rookies with 80 points (35-45) in 70 games. Henry is quick to credit last year’s experience with the Terriers for his success this season. “Blake (Spiller) was a really good coach and he taught me to be a good player, and I have to give him a lot of credit for that,” Henry recently told the MJHL Website. “The WHL is really built for 17, 18 and 19-year-old players, and a few 20-year-olds” said Henry. “Being a 16-year-old playing in the MJHL still offered me really good competition, and the ability to play with really good players, and I think it prepared me by showing me what junior hockey is like. The WHL is a different league than the MJHL, but the MJHL was still a great league to play in. Henry admitted that leaving his hometown Portage was stressful. “Starting this year off, it was a tough decision for my family to come here (to Regina), but when I did come there were a lot of players away at NHL camps, and that kind of gave myself and some other young guys the opportunity to step in and play big minutes for the first four games,” he said. “I was able to jump on a line with Sam Steel and Dawson Leedahl and we clicked. “Sam is signed in the NHL (with the Anaheim Ducks) and he’s a really special player to play with, and watching him play every game and he the way he works is a really neat experience, and I want to get to where he is,” added Henry. Playing on two dominant teams in back-to-back seasons has provided Henry a window to showcase his skills. And though young in age, he’s mature enough to realize having a legitimate chance at winning a championship in back-to-back years is unique opportunity. “I’m really lucky to play on a team like this,” he said. “Even last year (with the Portage Terriers), after winning the RBC Cup the year before, they were not expected to do as much, but Blake (Spiller, Terriers head coach) was able to put together another strong team like he always does and we were able to win it and come one win away from the RBC Cup. “And this year in Regina we have a lot of special players, and made some good deals to make us better for this year and next year, and it’s really exciting to be a part of.”  

Due to poor road conditions, Friday’s playoff game between OCN Blizzard and Winnipeg Blues has been postponed until Sunday, March 19. Game time will be 7 p.m.

The post-season is fully underway and fans can follow the progress of their favourite by going to the MJHL Playoff Bracket.   

Winnipeg will host this year’s annual Bantam Draft which will take place June 4. The draft will begin at 9 a.m., and fans can follow the action by utilizing the RinkNet Live Draft Centre tool. This was made possible by a partnership between the MJHL and Hockey Tech. "The annual Draft for the league is always a special event in that it propels teams forward when they select young players who will develop into stars on their MJHL clubs,” MJHL Commissioner Kim Davis said. “The draft is also the final major event in the league's annual calendar so it's a great way to wrap up the season." The draft is for players born in 2002. About RinkNet RinkNet's Live Draft Centre provides a complete solution for leagues and teams to efficiently manage their draft day preparation and execution.  This live software is displayed on terminals for each member team and enables  drafts to be conducted either in-person or remotely through team inputs and league/commissioner approval.  These confirmed draft picks are then made available online to the public in real-time. "RinkNet is truly a one-stop tool for teams and leagues to prepare for and conduct an efficient draft," said Jim Price, COO of HockeyTech.  "RinkNet's authority is in its ability not only to compile information for team draft preparation, but to be able to share this information in real-time within league environments and with the fans and media." Teams can input, update, and share scouting information amongst themselves all year-long on the RinkNet system as they prepare for the draft.  As players come off the board, these systems are automatically updated to reflect the current available player list.  RinkNet ensures ahead of draft day that all players on a team's draft board meet eligibility requirements  and that no player is mistakenly "drafted twice." Following the draft, RinkNet will continue to maintain a Draft Centre website so that media, fans, and scouts from hockey organizations inside and outside of the league can reference the results at any time. Fans and supporters should re-visit the MJHL website for more information as the Draft day draws near.

By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent Despite being one of the younger players in the MJHL this season, Chase Brakel is playing like a seasoned veteran. The Portage Terriers’ forward, who just turned 18 years old on December 1st, finished second overall  the league scoring race with 80 points: 20 points back of teammate Jeremey Leipsic, who won the Mike Ridley Trophy. Brakel and Leipsic are now in an exciting playoff battle with Selkirk Steelers. (Full playoff schedule can be seen here.) Routinely paired with the leading scorer in the league – that being Jeremy Leipsic – Brakel is part of a lethal one-two combo that has combined for more than 100 points so far this season. “Obviously I’m doing pretty good this season, and it helps playing regularly with my line mate (Leipsic) – we have good chemistry together,” said Brakel, a Winnipeg native. “We’ve really been clicking this year.” The 5’10, 175-pound forward added the third member of that line can change depending on the situation and who head coach Blake Spiller wants out on the ice with them. And despite only recently turning 18 years old, Brakel says he doesn’t feel out of place or intimidated on the ice playing against players much older and sometimes larger than he is. “I don’t really notice it out there,” he said. “Being a year or two younger than some of the guys at the top of the scoring lead, I don’t think it affects me too much. I just try to go out there and play my game, and try to help the team win. That’s the focus.” Brakel has the good fortune of drawing on last year’s deep, championship playoff run by the Terriers. Playoff experience is invaluable come this time of the year. “We have a really good chance this year, just like last year,” said Brakel, who wants to play NCAA Division One hockey when he’s done his junior career. And if the name Brakel sounds familiar, it should – his grandfather Hank Brakel was a general manager with St. Boniface Saints back in the 1990s, winning a league championship in the 1993-94 season on a team coached by Bruce Schmidt and led on the ice by the likes of Kane Chaloner, Derek Rigaux, and future CAJHL player of the year Cory Cyrenne. The younger Brakel is hoping to continue that championship tradition.        

Undefeated in two playoff starts, goaltender Troy Martyniuk has been named this week’s Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week. Martyniuk, 19, was outstanding last week, reflected in turning aside 70 of 75 shots over those two games against Virden Oil Capitals. His GAA was 1.78, combined with an outstanding save percentage of .940. A product of the Winnipeg Thrashers, Martyniuk was also named a game star (2nd) in the Flyers’ OT victory in Game 1. The runners up are 20 year old goaltender Tyler Gutenberg of the Neepawa Natives and 20 year old defenceman Brady Keeper of the OCN Blizzard. MJHL post-season play is now in full action. The full schedule can be seen on the MJHL website.

For the first time in seven seasons the Neepawa Natives have qualified for the MJHL post-season and everyone associated with the organization couldn’t be more thrilled. Natives, who made the playoffs with a win in their final regular-season game, now take on No. 1 ranked Steinbach Pistons. “That last game was unbelievable,” said GM Myles Cathcart. “It was just like the old days. The place was packed. The fans were loud. There had to be more than 1,000 in our rink. It was a great atmosphere." “It’s fun times for us now,” he said with a laugh. “It’s kind of like the old days for those of us who have been here for a while. Making the playoffs. Having games in spring. It’s just unreal for us.” Cathcart’s association with the Natives run deep. He was a member of the original Natives, and over the years has held a number of roles. By his own admission, the franchise has faced, and overcome its share of adversity. “It’s been a very long process for our organization,” he said. “It’s been a process getting back to where we are competitive; to where players want to be here and not want to leave. Making the playoffs helps us from both recruiting players to approaching sponsors and advertisers." “Making the playoffs really shows growth in the right direction for us.” Cathcart vividly remembers the days when the Natives entered the MJHL and iced a competitive team on a yearly basis. The Natives, under then coach Don MacGillivray, last advanced to the league final in the mid-90s, losing to St. James Canadians. (MacGillivrary is now an assistant coach with Brandon Wheat Kings, after an outstanding career in the MJHL.) “When our team does well, the community is excited,” said Cathcart. “A lot of great people put in a lot of hard work to get the team where it is today. Both on the ice and off the ice. The community of Neepawa has always supported their Natives. “Now, by making the playoffs, we can give something back to them with exciting, competitive hockey.” The full MJHL playoff schedule can be seen HERE.  

The MJHL extends its deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Ken Kronson. Ken had a long association with our league, serving as president and director with the then Winnipeg South Blues. Below is Ken’s obituary: KENNETH HOWARD KRONSON Peacefully, after a brief battle with cancer, surrounded by his closest friend and cousins, Kenneth Howard Kronson, passed away on February 6, 2017 at the St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He was preceded in death by his father Philip, his mother Jessie and his brother Paul. He leaves to mourn his wife Johanna, also of Winnipeg; his son Jeffrey and daughter-in-law Jean Kronson; (grandchildren, Mia, Gabriel and Aaron), of Los Angeles, CA and his daughter Sari and son-in-law Wojtek Kuczynski of Goodyear, AZ. Kenny was born on May 9, 1940 in Winnipeg where he lived all his life. His interest in sports and athletics was life long and he was intensely involved in soccer and basketball. His later life would be dominated by his love of hockey. He went on to the University of Manitoba where he studied Sciences and graduated with a BSC in Pharmacy in 1962. Kenny met Johanna Schindle with whom he spent most of his adult life in 1984 and they were officially married 26 years later in 2010. He began working with his father in pharmacy in the mid-to-late 1960's. After the family moved south to River Heights, his father Phil along with a few other astute pharmacist/businessmen began the Metro Drugs franchise. It was a fixture in Winnipeg from 1965 to 1981 when the corporation was sold. Kenny began the second of three businesses in the early 1980's, Midwest Geriatrics, which was devoted to providing prescriptions to Winnipeg's larger nursing facilities. After Midwest completed its run in the late eighties Kenny embarked upon a new project with a new goal, Medi-Mart Pharmacy on Pembina Highway, which grew over the next 17 years. He sold Medi-Mart Pharmacy in 2006 and retired from the profession having helped countless people with affordable prescription drugs, many for the first time ever. Kenny's love of hockey began when his cousin, Ben Hatskin, brought the Winnipeg Jets and the WHA to Winnipeg in 1972. Kenny was heavily involved with the Winnipeg South Monarchs. From there he went on to the Winnipeg South Blues where he served as President and lifetime Director. He remained a vital and integral member of the Board up until his passing. Finally, he was part of the Executive Board of the World Junior Championships when it was held in Winnipeg in 1999. His contributions to minor hockey in Winnipeg will be difficult to duplicate and the void he leaves will be near impossible to replace. Easily Kenny's most significant contribution and lasting legacy came through sports. Kenny along with his close friend Ernie Nairn founded the YMHA Sportsman's Dinner in 1972. Kenny was the Dinner's Chairman until about three years ago. This remains the first dinner of its kind and is well-known throughout Canada and parts of the United States as a groundbreaking fundraiser that has hosted every major sports figure from almost every sport. From its inception in 1972 to the most recent dinner in 2016, the "Y" Sports Dinner chaired by Kenny has raised over seven million dollars, a feat that may never be replicated. His passing left an irreplaceable hole in the dinner committee. Kenny left a legacy of altruistic volunteerism and gave of himself tirelessly again and again. To quote Harvey Rosen in the Winnipeg Jewish Post and News, "His like shall not pass this way again." In lieu of flowers kindly direct donations to the Ken Kronson Fund, at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba.  

By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent It’s called the ‘new’ season: the playoffs. The opportunity to challenge for the historic Turnbull Trophy often breathes new life into teams. One of the more memorable finishes to a regular season is now in the books, and the eight participants to the 2016-17 Manitoba Junior Hockey League playoffs are set. The final entrant was not decided until the final game of the regular season, making for some high drama. And only seven points separated seeds two through five, meaning who will make it to the MJHL final is most definitely up in the air. Below is a preview of the first-round match-ups (full playoff schedule can be seen by clicking here) No. 8 Neepawa vs. No. 1 Steinbach The Neepawa Natives returned to the playoffs in dramatic fashion, defeating the Swan Valley Stampeders 6-3 in their final game of the year in front of 1,000 plus rabid fans. Things have not been this exciting in Neepawa in some time, and they are looking forward to getting back into the post season. The Natives enter the playoffs as the hottest team in the MJHL – going 7-2-1 in their final 10. That’s only slightly better than their opponent – the Pistons were 7-3 during the same stretch. Interestingly, the Natives picked up a key win over the Pistons in the final week, giving them two crucial points they ultimately required. Neepawa also have the reigning player of the week in Justin Metcalf, who had eight points last week and led the team with 38 goals and 67 points this year. His offense is complimented by the likes of Ashton Anderson (64 points) and Reigan Buchanan (42 points). They Pistons, though, counter with a deeper and more explosive offense (they were second in goals scored at 4.15 goals per game). McKenzie Graham (32 goals, 79 points), Bradley Schoonbaert (72 points) and rookie William Koop (52 points) will lead the way for the Pistons. They will also get plenty of points from their blueline, led by Tyler Anderson (49 points). In goal, Roman Bengert sparkled this year with a 2.14 GAA and a .926 save percentage. Neepawa will go with Tyler Gutenberg in goal. He posted a 3.31 GAA and a .903 save percentage. The Pistons had the best power-play (22.96 per cent) and penalty-kill units this year (89.87 per cent), while the Natives were 10th on the power-play (14.72) and eighth on the penalty kill (79.45 per cent). No. 7 Virden vs. No. 2 Winkler There was a real battle for the second seed this year, with four teams having a legitimate shot at that spot. The Flyers pulled away in the end, and thus draw the seventh seeded Virden Oil Capitals. Winkler did not have an overpowering offensive player this year – leading scorer Scott Gall had a respectable 50 points this year (though he did miss 16 games this season). What they do bring to the table is an extremely balanced scoring attack – a full 11 players had 30 or more points this year. That means their opponents won’t be able to shut down one line, as they have basically three lines that can score. Other Flyers to watch for this post-season include 20-goal-scorer Braden Billaney and defenseman Lawson McDonald (tied for second in team scoring with 49 points). Virden also sports a balanced attack, with eight 30-point men. Carter Cowlthorp tied for the team in scoring with 52 points and has goals in 11 of their past 15 games. The other 52-point man is Mack Hardy. He and Tyler Kirkup led the team with 31 assists each. Between the pipes the battle will be between Virden’s Marc Audet (3.13 GAA, .905 save percentage) and Winkler’s Cole Weaver (2.49 GAA and a .906 save percentage). Special teams have Virden with an edge on the power-play (19.77 per cent vs 17.06 per cent, while Winkler has the slight edge in the penalty kill (83.88 vs. 83.85). No. 6 Winnipeg vs. No. 3 OCN The OCN Blizzard had extremely interesting season this year. Off-ice issue about the future of the franchise and a lengthy stretch where they played constantly on the road did not stop them from having their best finish in years. Now with the team confirmed to play in OCN again next year, the Blizzard and their fans can focus on the task of their first-round opponent the Winnipeg Blues. The Blizzard are led by the league’ most outstanding player and top defenseman Brady Keeper. The pride of Cross Lake was third in team scoring with 48 points. He logs a lot of playing time, plays all the key situations, and will be key to getting the Blizzard into the final four. Up front, George King had 36 goals this year, and lead the team with 54 points, tied with Jeremy Dumont. OCN also sports seven 20-plus goal scorers to contend with. The Blues counter with prolific scorer Dexter Kuczek (eighth in league scoring with 30 goals and 67 points). Winnipeg will rely heavily on him, as well as the likes of Rhett Lough (45 points) and Levi Cudmore (43 points). In goal Brett Epp played admirably since being acquired by the Blizzard. He was 25-11 with a 2.54 GAA and a .921 save percentage. Winnipeg has two capable netminders they can go with – Jacob Gnidziejko (2.97 GAA) and Adam Derochie (3.33 GAA). Neither have a save percentage over .900 though. Winnipeg’s special teams are not that special this year – their power-play is ninth (15.32 per cent) and their penalty kill is a league-worst 77.27 per cent). Meanwhile, OCN sports the fourth-best power-play at 84.91 per cent) and the second-best penalty kill at 84.91 per cent. Special teams are going to be critical. I also think the Blizzard will get a real boost from their fans who are hungry for some playoff success, and that this series might be over sooner than people think. No. 5 Portage vs. No. 4 Selkirk None of the top seeds wanted to place fourth or fifth, because this is going to be a grueling series. Let’s start with the Selkirk Steelers, who finished a mere point behind OCN and three ahead of Portage. They are another one of those balanced attack teams – 10 players have 30 or more points. They are led by Jake Dudar and his 67 points. Cole McCartan (runner up for player of the week) adds 49 to the cause, with Nathan Halvorsen chipping in 48). Portage counters with the top scorer in the league in Jeremy Leipsic and his 100 points (the only player to reach that plateau this year). Chase Brakel was second in scoring with 80 points, with four other players scoring a point-a-game pace (James McIssac, Tyler Enns, Ryan Sokolski and defenseman Mackenzie Dwyer). Rookie Brock Aiken played the most games in goal for Portage, putting up a 3.01 GAA and a .897 save percentage. Selkirk’s Hayden Dola put up better numbers – a 2.74 GAA and a .914 GAA. This series will be strength versus strength. Portage sports the second-best power-play at 22.85 per cent, compared to Selkirk’s fifth-ranked unit at 17.89 per cent. Conversely, Selkirk’s penalty kill squad is fifth ranked at 83.80 per cent, compared to Portage’s ninth-ranked unit at 79.27 per cent). Portage does have 11 short-handed goals as a bit of an X-factor.  

Shown in picture: Kevin Saurette, Director of Operations, MJHL and Paul Dyck, Head Coach and GM, Steinbach Pistons By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent The Steinbach Pistons have been the model of consistency in the past few years. They have iced extremely competitive teams, and enjoy long, deep runs in the post-season. In fact, they just secured first place overall with an impressive record of  49-10-1 after 60 games. The past two years, though, they have not been able to bring home the one prize all teams covet. The Portage Terriers iced even stronger teams, one built to win a national championship. So despite the Pistons being an extremely strong team, they bowed out in the league final both years. This season, though, it’s the Pistons who will enter the post-season as the No. 1 seed and a strong favourite to win the Turnbull Cup. For GM/Head Coach Paul Dyck, this is the exact position they wanted to be in. The Pistons open up against Neepawa in Steinbach. (The full playoff schedule can be seen on the MJHL website.) “I think the majority of the teams in the league had the goal to finish first overall,” said Dyck, who was recently named the MJHL’s coach of the year winner.  “And there’s no question the guys put in a lot of work over the course of the winter. That said, we only have one goal ahead of us, and we still have a lot of work ahead of us.” The Pistons’ bench boss does not feel his team is at risk for any sort of let down. He also knows how to keep his team motivated, learning valuable lessons when they won their first league championship in 2013. Finishing second the past two years has only made the team hungrier for success, and they are eager to begin their march to their first league championship since the 2012-13 season. “We are trying to focus on the task at hand each game,” said Dyck. “We know we have to work hard each night for the two points, and know nothing is going to be given to us. And when we clinched, we didn’t have a huge celebration – it was rewarding, but the guys understand there is work to do before we achieve our ultimate goal.” And that road is going to be a challenging one this year, especially as teams go deeper in the post-season. There has not been this much parity in the MJHL in some time. Seeds two through five – Winkler, OCN, Selkirk and Portage – are extremely close to one another in the standings and not that far back of the Pistons. Even Virden and Winnipeg will not be an easy first-round opponent. And the eighth seed, Neepawa, will be in full-playoff mode, having had to win its last game of the season to secure the last playoff spot. “Every game is tough it seems this year,” said Dyck. “There are a lot of games, where if you look at the standings, they seem like they would be an easy team but that isn’t the case. A lot of teams feel like they are in contention, so the playoffs will be very interesting.” The Pistons, though, are hoping to use their veteran experience – and past playoff setbacks – as motivation to fulfill their ultimate prize. “We have a pretty good group of guys, and the experience we can draw on from last year in the finals, and what it takes to be a champion, will be something that is very valuable for us,” said Dyck. “Losing left a sour taste in our mouths, and the veterans wanted to come back this year and be on the other side of it.”

Neepawa Natives have made the MJHL playoffs for the first time in seven seasons, thanks in large part to the outstanding play of Justin Metcalf, who has been named this week’s Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week. Metcalf, 19, recorded eight points (4-4) in the final four games of the regular season. Three of those four games were Neepawa wins, helping the club secure the eighth and final playoff berth. Natives will now face Steinbach Pistons in their best-of-seven, quarter final series. Metcalf, who hails from Winnipeg, had three, multi-point games and was twice named a game star. He also finished first in the Natives’ scoring race with 38 goals and 67 points in 59 games. The runners up are 20 year old forward Cole McCartan of the Selkirk Steelers and 20 year old goaltender Roman Bengert of the Steinbach Pistons.

SERIES A – NEEPAWA NATIVES vs STEINBACH PISTONS Mar 10 Neepawa Natives at Steinbach Pistons 7:30 pm   Mar 12 Steinbach Pistons at Neepawa Natives 6:30 pm   Mar 14 Neepawa Natives at Steinbach Pistons 7:30 pm   Mar 17 Steinbach Pistons at Neepawa Natives 7:30 pm   Mar 18 Neepawa Natives at Steinbach Pistons (if necess) 7:30 pm   Mar 20 Steinbach Pistons at Neepawa Natives (if necess) 7:30 pm   Mar 22 Neepawa Natives at Steinbach Pistons (if necess) 7:30 pm     SERIES B – VIRDEN OIL CAPITALS  vs WINKLER FLYERS Mar 10 Virden Oil Capitals at Winkler Flyers 7:30 pm Mar 12 Winkler Flyers at Virden Oil Capitals 7:00 pm Mar 14 Virden Oil Capitals at Winkler Flyers 7:30 pm Mar 16 Winkler Flyers at Virden Oil Capitals 7:30 pm Mar 17 Virden Oil Capitals at Winkler Flyers (if necess) 7:30 pm Mar 19 Winkler Flyers at Virden Oil Capitals (if necess) 7:00 pm Mar 21 Virden Oil Capitals at Winkler Flyers (if necess) 7:30 pm   SERIES C –  WINNIPEG BLUES vs OCN BLIZZARD Mar 10 Winnipeg Blues at OCN Blizzard 7:00 pm Mar 11 Winnipeg Blues at OCN Blizzard 7:00 pm Mar 14 OCN Blizzard at Winnipeg Blues   Mar 15 OCN Blizzard at Winnipeg Blues   Mar 17 Winnipeg Blues at OCN Blizzard (if necess)   Mar 21 OCN Blizzard at Winnipeg Blues (if necess) 7:30 pm Mar 23 Winnipeg Blues at OCN Blizzard (if necess) 7:30 pm   SERIES D –  PORTAGE TERRIERS vs SELKIRK STEELERS Mar 10 Portage Terriers at Selkirk Steelers 7:30 pm Mar 12 Selkirk Steelers at Portage Terriers 6:30 pm Mar 14 Portage Terriers at Selkirk Steelers 7:30 pm Mar 15 Selkirk Steelers at Portage Terriers 7:30 pm Mar 17 Portage Terriers at Selkirk Steelers (if necess) 7:30 pm Mar 20 Selkirk Steelers at Portage Terriers (if necess) 7:30 pm Mar 21 Portage Terriers at Selkirk Steelers (if necess) 7:30 pm

The playoff race is a bit clearer as teams close in on the finish line of the regular season. ‎Below is what we know at this point:   Winkler finishes 2nd Portage finishes 5th OCN needs at least 1 point against Steinbach to finish 3rd Virden must win their final game and Winnipeg must lose theirs in regulation for Virden to finish in 6th place The winner of the Swan Valley – Neepawa game gets the final playoff position finishing in 8th place. Team Points Wins Goal Diff Current Standing Best Finish Worst Finish Games Left Opponents home Notes x – Steinbach 97 48 +124 1 1 1 1 OB * y-Winkler 85 41 +73 2 2 2 1 VO * y-Selkirk 81 39 +43 3 3 4 0 – Tied OCN 3-3 but ahead with (+2) goal differential y-OCN 81 39 +48 4 3 4 1 SP Need 1 point to finish 3rd y-Portage 76 36 +57 5 5 5 1 WW * y-Winnipeg 59 27 -8 6 6 7 1 DK Beat Virden 4-2, need 1 point to clinch 6th y-Virden 58 25 -33 7 6 7 1 WF Must win last game and Blues lose both their games Swan Valley 46 20 -73 8 8 9 1 NN Ahead of Neepawa 3-2(+6) Neepawa 46 20 -59 9 8 9 1 SV * z-Dauphin 39 16 -77 10 10 10 1 WB * z-Waywayseecappo 32 14 -95 11 11 11 1 PT *   x – clinched first place y – clinced playoff position z – eliminated from playoffs

New this season, in addition to the Manitoba Young Guns Series (Bantam Players), the Manitoba Junior Hockey League is going to highlight MJHL Midget Prospects in our MJHL-In the System Series. We will take a look at players who are currently listed by an MJHL team and look to be a big part of that team’s future. The players chosen are all exceptional kids both on-and-off the ice and all have bright futures in the game of hockey. Follow along and share as we release a new MJHL-In the System Player Profile bi-weekly on the MJHL website and through MJHL social media platforms. MJHL-In the System Player Profile | Drew Draward Portage Terriers Prospect Position: D Number: 5 Height: 6’2” Weight: 187 Hometown: Beausejour Team: Eastman Selects – Manitoba AAA Midget Drew Draward is the captain of the Eastman Selects and helped Eastman to a strong season in the very competitive Manitoba AAA Midget Hockey League. He currently has 4 points in three playoff games as his team is facing off against the Winnipeg Thrashers in the first round of the playoffs. Portage Terriers Head Scout/Director of Player Personnel Frank Harding on Draward: “Drew is a prospect we are excited about getting into our line up. He has all the skills to be a top defender. He battles hard and brings a physical presence to his team. He is a leader and is captain of the Eastman Selects provincial midget team. Drew has played as an affiliate with us this season and has shown that he can not only play in our league, he can be a key contributor.”

The MJHL’s leading scorer, Jeremey Leipsic, has been named February’s RBC Player of the Month. The Winnipeg native scored 20 points (7-13) in 11 games last month. During the month he had five multi-point games, while being named a game star on three occasions. Leipsic, 19, currently leads the MJHL points race with 32 goals and 97 points. Equally impressive is that he’s only had 12 minutes in penalties this season. Aligning to RBC’s #Someday platform, Leipsic’s #Someday is "to help the Terriers make another championship run and earn a college scholarship". The runners up are 20 year old forward Jake Dudar of the Selkirk Steelers and 19 year old forward Nolan Richards of the Neepawa Natives. Sher-Wood-MJHL Defenceman of the Month The Sher-wood Defenceman of the Month is Tyler Anderson of the Steinbach Pistons. Anderson, 19, was both steady on the blueline and in the offensive zone, reflected in 12 points (5-7) in 11 games. The native of Winnipeg, who was a runner-up for this award last month, was selected a game star twice last month. The runners up are 20 year old Lawson McDonald of the Winkler Flyers and 20 year old Brady Keeper of the OCN Blizzard. MGEU-MJHL Goaltender of the Month The MGEU Goaltender of the Month is Brett Epp of the OCN Blizzard. Epps, 19, posted an impressive 6-1 record in February, including one shutout win. A runner-up for this award in January, his outstanding play in February was recognized in being named a game star twice in February. His save percentage last month was .934 with a 2.00 GAA. The native of Edmonton has an overall record of 24-10, highlighted by three shutouts. The runners up are 19 year old Hayden Dola of the Selkirk Steelers and 19 year old Troy Martyniuk of the Winkler Flyers. IBAM-MJHL Rookie of the Month With 11 points in 10 games last month, forward Carter Barley of the Selkirk Steelers has been named the IBAM Rookie of the Month. Barley, 17, has been a key member of the Steelers who sit third in the MJHL standings. Barley, who hails from St. Andrews, is having a good freshman season, reflected in 12 goals and 27 points in 53 games. The runners up are 18 year old forward Will Koop of the Steinbach Pistons and 18 year old goaltender Riley McVeigh of the Virden Oil Capitals. Manitoba Pork Peak Performer of the Month The Manitoba Pork Peak Performer of the Month is 20 year old goaltender Tyler Gutenberg of the Neepawa Natives. Tyler has been an ambassador for the Neepawa Natives this year and the month of February has been no different. The native of Brandon has volunteered his time by reading in local schools during ‘I Love to Read’ Month. Tyler has also helped the staff at various Country Meadows Personal Care Home events and participated in Neepawa's weekly Breakfast Club hockey skills events, as well as being a linesman for minor hockey games in both Neepawa and Gladstone. Tyler has also had an exceptional month between the pipes too with five wins last month.

By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent The Portage Terriers will not lock down the No. 1 seed this season as they have done the past two years. However, one thing has not changed – they prepare to end the post-season with the MJHL’s leading point man in their arsenal. Jeremey Leipsic has been nothing short of spectacular in his first full season with the Terriers. The Winnipeg native, who played for a year and a half in the BCHL to start his junior career, is closing in on 100 points as the regular season winds down. After 57 games, he has 32 goals and 97 points. Terrier teammate Chase Brakel and Mackenzie Graham (Steinbach) round out the top three with 79 and 78 points, respectively. “I don’t think there’s one thing I can put my finger on,” said Leipsic on his success this year. “I am just trying to bring my ‘A-game’ every game, and that’s worked for myself. And having a line mate like Chase (Brakel) for most of the year, I’ve been able to develop some chemistry with him, and that’s showed on the ice.” The big reason for Leipsic’s lead atop the scoring race is his ability to get goal-scorers the puck. His 65 helpers are 19 better than Graham, who is also second in that category. Leipsic’s aforementioned line mate Brakel, not surprisingly, is tied for the lead as the top goal-scorer this year with 34. OCN’s George King is also sitting on 34 heading into the weekend. “I’ve been a playmaker more than a goal-scorer most of my career,” said Leipsic. “I think my vision has always been one of my strengths, and I think that plays a big part in me getting a lot of assists.” The 19-year-old Winnipeg native was part of Portage’s championship last year, and knows what it’s like to enter the post season as the favourite. That isn’t going to be the case this year – the Steinbach Pistons are the top seed, and the Terriers are likely to enter the playoffs as a strong No. 5 seed, depending on what they do with their games in hand, and how the three teams tied for second place – Winkler, Selkirk and OCN – fare down the stretch. But the Terriers are hungry for a franchise first – a three-peat. And with the top scoring forward in the league, you never know what might happen in a playoff series. “We’re quite a different team from last year – we have more younger-guys, especially on the back end,” said Leipsic. “We’re not the overwhelming favourites, but our coaching staff is going to have everyone ready come playoff time, so we’re looking forward to the challenge of being the underdog this year.” As for next season, Leipsic has one year left of junior eligibility, and he said he plans on returning to the Terriers and continue working towards a NCAA scholarship – a goal he hopes he will be closer to after potentially winning the league scoring race and having a long and productive playoff run. “I haven’t looked too far ahead, as I have one more year (of eligibility) left, but as far I know I’ll be back in Portage next year and earn myself a scholarship soon.”

The Swan Valley Stampeders Board of Directors have relieved Erik Petersen of his duties as Head Coach/GM.  The Board of Directors would like to thank Erik for his time and wish him the best in his future endeavors. The Swan Valley Stampeders Board of Directors have named Darren Webster as interim Head Coach for the remainder of the 2016-17 season.

For Bob Somerfeld, the Selkirk Rec Complex is more than just a hockey arena, it’s home to some of his fondest memories. From announcing Selkirk Steelers games to getting to know the volunteers, players and coaching staff, Somerfeld has had a front row seat to it all. The 52-year-old has been the Steelers game announcer for 14 years and has been with the Selkirk Steelers Junior ‘A’ Hockey Club for 25 years. He got his start doing the music during home games before he made his way into both the penalty and now press box calling the shots during the games. “My two passions in life are sports and music so it’s a perfect mix, a perfect fit for me,” Somerfeld said with a smile while standing inside the press box at the rec complex last Thursday afternoon. “I enjoy watching the games, I enjoy everything about the games.” Over the years he’s also come up with his own catchphrase to announce the Steelers, “let’s make some noise for your steeltown boys,” to pump up the crowd. “I’ve been following the Steelers my whole life so to become part of the organization was really special to me,” he said. Somerfeld said the key to being a good game announcer is using your own voice. “You can’t make up a voice … and you have to bring a little excitement to the game and when you announce,” he said. “I found that the more excited I get about us scoring the more excited the fans get.” Somerfeld also owns his own music company, Somerfeld Sound, so becoming an announcer was a natural fit for him. “It’s been amazing,” Somerfeld said, referring to all of the Steelers players he’s watched over the years. “Every team is different but most of them are just incredible young men.” But Somerfeld admits one thing he’s noticed over the past couple years are more empty seats in the stands during home games. The Selkirk Rec Complex, which opened in May 1990, holds roughly 2,000 fans, but lately only around 500 of those seats are filled during home games. “I’ve noticed over the last four or five years that attendance has been declining,” he said. “It’s unfortunate because we need the support, the players need the support and we should consider ourselves lucky to have Junior ‘A’ and Junior ‘B’ hockey in Selkirk. “The only way to keep them going is to come out to some games.” Somerfeld added some of the biggest crowds he’s ever seen was during the 2006-07 season. “It was really fun to come to work everyday when you had that many fans and the energy in the building,” he said. “The game seven of the 06’ 07’ Anavet Cup run was probably the greatest game I’ve ever seen in my life to be a part of.” He added the best part about that game was when the Steelers scored the winning goal and “the roof completely came off the place.” “There was chaos on the ice … the fans were going crazy and the players were going crazy.” As of Monday afternoon, the Steelers sat in third place in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. Their next home game is on Friday, March 3 at 7:30 p.m. when they will go up against the Opaskwayak Cree Nation Blizzard team from The Pas.  

Thanks in large part to a six-point game, James McIsaac of Portage Terriers has been named this week’s Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week. McIsaac, 17, scored four goals in a recent win over Virden, also adding two assists. As expected, he was selected first star of the game. In three games (two Terrier wins) last week, McIsaac had a total of eight points (6-2). McIsaac, who represented the MJHL in the recent CJHL Prospects’ Game, has had an outstanding season, reflected in 33 goals and 64 points in 56 games. The native of Winnipeg also has eight powerplay goals this season. The runners up are 20 year old forward Carter Cowlthorp of the Virden Oil Capitals and 19 year old forward Nolan Richards of the Neepawa Natives.

New this season, in addition to the Manitoba Young Guns Series, the Manitoba Junior Hockey League is highlighting current MJHL Midget Prospects in our MJHL-In the System Series.  We will look at players who are currently listed by an MJHL team and look to be a big part of that team’s future. The players chosen are all exceptional kids both on-and-off the ice and all have bright futures in the game of hockey.   MJHL-In the System Player Profile | Cedric Chenier Winnipeg Blues Prospect Position: Forward Number: 12 Height: 5’11” Weight: 180 Hometown: Winnipeg Team: Winnipeg Wild Midget AAA Cedric finished 1st overall in the Manitoba AAA Midget Regular Season Scoring race with 30 goals, 35 assists for 65 points in 43 games played, helping his team to a first place finish in the Regular Season Standings. Tim Schick-Winnipeg Blues Director of Player Personnel/Head Scout on Chenier:  Cedric is a very strong and skilled forward with superb vision and comes to play every game. He has great knowledge of the game with an excellent work ethic on and off the ice.  He is a real leader and a great teammate. We had the pleasure of getting him into a couple of games this season in which he played very well, scored a goal, and was also named 3rd star in one of the games

OCN Blizzard’s Brady Keeper is the recipient of two major MJHL awards: MVP and top defenceman, Commissioner Kim Davis announced today. The league also announced the winners of the remaining four major awards and all-star teams. “Every player should be commended for their outstanding performance over the regular season,” said Davis. “Coaches of the league vote and make the selections. These selections are extremely difficult to make. The talent level in our league continues to improve yearly. The selection of our award winners and all-stars is a time-consuming and difficult process.” Steve “Boomer”  Hawrysh MVP Award Brady Keeper, 20, hails from Cross Lake and has committed to University of Maine for next season. In 44 games, the 6-foot-2, 200-pound D-man has scored 22 goals and recorded 45 points. Rookie of the Year – Vince Leah Trophy Cole Weaver, Winkler Flyers. The rookie goaltender from Champin Park, MN, has enjoyed an outstanding freshman season. He currently owns a 24-11 record with a .909 save percentage. At 6-foot-2, he takes up a lot of net, making it very difficult for opposition shooters. As you can guess, his favourite player is a goaltender: Carey Price of the Montreal Canadiens. Hockey Ability – Lorne “Windy” Lyndon Trophy Jeremey Leipsic, Portage Terriers. The native of Winnipeg currently leads the MJHL scoring race, and is hoping to add that award to his accomplishments. He currently has 93 points (30-63) in 55 games. At 5-foot-8, Leipsic is highly skilled and can make plays at a high speed. Leipsic, 19, is hoping to earn a college scholarship. His older brother, Brendan, plays with the Toronto Marlies (AHL). Top Goaltender Roman Bengert, Steinbach Pistons. The native of Cole Harbour, NS, leads the MJHL in three goaltending categories: wins (34), minutes played (2,439) and shutouts (five). At 6-foot-3, Bengert has proven to be extremely difficult to beat. Bengert recently committed to Lake Superior State. Top Defenceman – Brian Kozak Trophy Brady Keeper, OCN Blizzard Coach of the Year – Portage Terriers “ Muzz McPherson” Award Paul Dyck, Steinbach Pistons. Currently, the Pistons have only eight losses this season and have been nationally ranked No. 1 several times by the CJHL. Dyck, a former draft of the Pittsburgh Penguins, was head coach when the Pistons won the MJHL in 2013. Under Dyck’s tutelage, the Pistons have appeared in the last two MJHL championships. 1st All Star Team      Goal Roman Bengert Steinbach Pistons Defence Lawson McDonald Winkler Flyers Defence Brady Keeper OCN Blizzard Forward Jeremey Leipsic Portage Terriers Forward Brandon Stanley Wayway Wolverines Forward MacKenzie Graham Steinbach Pistons   2nd All Star Team     Goal Cole Weaver Winkler Flyers Defence Tyler Anderson Steinbach Pistons Defence Tyler Jubenvill Winkler Flyers Forward Chase Brakel Portage Terriers Forward Scott Gall Winkler Flyers Forward Jake Dudar Selkirk Steelers   Rookie All Star Team Goal Cole Weaver Winkler Flyers Defence Layne Toder Portage Terriers Defence Sam Stewart Neepawa Natives Forward Will Koop Steinbach Pistons Forward Riese Gaber Dauphin Kings Forward Dallas Tulik Winnipeg Blues   Each all-star winner will receive their award at their home rink over the next two weeks. The MJHL’s top scorer, who will be decided upon season’s end, will receive the Mike Ridley Trophy, named after the prolific goal scorer who starred with the St. Boniface Saints.

By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent   The race for the eighth and final playoff spot in the MJHL is perhaps the most exciting one with two weeks to go. A three-team race is a pretty much a two-team one now, but the final two weeks offer up the potential for plenty of drama. Let’s take a look at the three teams left, and what their schedules look like. First off is the Swan Valley Stampeders, who have six games remaining and lead the Neepawa Natives by three points. Swan Valley’s schedule goes like this – at Wayway, versus Virden, versus Virden again, at Portage, versus Wayway, at Neepawa. Neepawa, who pose the biggest threat after a four-game winning streak, retain a game in hand on Swan Valley. Their schedule goes like this – versus Wayway, versus Portage, at Portage, at Winkler, versus Steinbach, versus Dauphin, versus Swan Valley. Neepawa’s overtime loss Sunday left them still in need of help of catching the Stampeders, though they retain one game in hand. The Dauphin Kings are five points back and have only four games left. They need to basically win out and still likely need help to sneak into the post season. And their schedule is the toughest. They end the season like this: versus Steinbach, versus Steinbach, at Neepawa, at Winnipeg. Those two games versus the Pistons might just do in the Kings, who have not missed the playoffs in a long time. So the race really comes down to Swan Valley and Neepawa. The final game of the season between one another could determine eighth seed to the playoffs. But the schedule works against Neepawa. They had only won 12 games prior to their four-game win streak, and they will need to out-win Swan Valley down the stretch. Even if Swan Valley only wins two of six games, Neepawa still needs to win three of six games to pass them. And with a game against the Pistons, two against the Terriers, and one against Winkler, their schedule is much harder than that of the Stampeders, who only play one game against a team higher in the standings than the seventh place Oil Capitals, that being the fifth place Terriers.

Nominees for the MJHL’s six major awards have been finalized, Commissioner Kim Davis announced today. “Each team submitted a nominee for the awards and the league’s 11 coaches subsequently conducted a vote,” explained Davis. “Each of the nominees should be very proud of their accomplishment.” The respective winners will be announced later this week. The Mike Ridley Award, given to league’s top point producer, will be known when the regular season comes to an end. The award finalists are: MVP Award – Steve “Boomer” Hawrysh Memorial Trophy Mackenzie Graham – Steinbach Pistons Chase Brakel – Portage Terriers Brady Keeper – OCN Blizzard Rookie of the Year Award – Vince Leah Trophy Riese Gaber – Dauphin Kings Will Koop – Steinbach Pistons Cole Weaver- Winkler Flyers Hockey Ability and Sportsmanship Award – Lorne “Windy” Lyndon Memorial Trophy Jeremey Leipsic – Portage Terriers Scott Gall – Winkler Flyers Justin Metcalf – Neepawa Natives Top Goaltender Award Hayden Dola – Selkirk Steelers Cole Weaver  – Winkler Flyers Roman Bengert – Steinbach Pistons Top Defenseman Award – Brian Kozak Memorial Trophy Brady Keeper – OCN Blizzard Tyler Anderson – Steinbach Pistons Lawson McDonald – Winkler Flyers Top Scorer Award – Mike Ridley Trophy TBA at a later date Coach of the Year Award – Portage Terriers “Muzz McPherson” Award Paul Dyck – Steinbach Pistons Ken Pearson – Winkler Flyers Doug Hedley – OCN Blizzard  

New this season, the Manitoba Junior Hockey League is highlighting upcoming and current MJHL Prospects from each minor hockey association that supports an MJHL organization along with Brandon and Thompson. The players chosen are all exceptional kids both on-and-off the ice and all have bright futures in the game of hockey.   Follow along and share as we release a new Manitoba Young Guns Profile bi-weekly on our website and through our social media platforms. Manitoba Young Guns Series Player Profile – Rylan Thomas Hometown: Winkler MB     Weight: 110 lbs Height: 5’ 3.5” Position: D Number:  22 Shoots: Right Team: Winkler Flyers Bantam AA What kind of player are you? Stay at Home Defenseman Interests/Hobbies: Hockey, baseball, golf, camping & the outdoors Achievements (sport and/or academically): Received the Winkler Elementary School, Award of Excellence in 2016 What are your hockey goals for the future?  To play to the best of my ability and at the highest level I am capable of.  

New this season, in addition to the Manitoba Young Guns Series (Bantam Players), the Manitoba Junior Hockey League is going to highlight MJHL Midget Prospects in our MJHL-In the System Series. We will take a look at players who are currently listed by an MJHL team and look to be a big part of that team’s future. The players chosen are all exceptional kids both on-and-off the ice and all have bright futures in the game of hockey. Follow along and share as we release a new MJHL-In the System Player Profile bi-weekly on the MJHL website and through MJHL social media platforms. MJHL-In the System Player Profile | Cade Kowalski Winkler Flyers Prospect Position: Forward Number: 18 Height: 5’11 Weight: 165 Hometown: Morden Team: Pembina Valley Hawks Cade is tied for the scoring lead for the Pembina Valley Hawks with 14 goals and 42 assists in 38 games played. He currently sits 4th in the Manitoba AAA Midget Overall League Scoring race and 1st in League assists. Winkler Flyers Coach/General Manager Ken Pearson on Kowalski: "Cade is an intelligent player who sees the ice and uses his line mates well, he plays with an edge and has the skating ability to create offence off the rush. We have been able to have Cade play as an AP in 2 big games so far this season and he has played very well."

Note to our fans: The MJHL will be highlighting our players throughout the season that are currently signed in the Western Hockey League.   “We feel that the MJHL gives younger players a great opportunity to further develop as a player and person in a very professional and competitive environment,” said Kevin Saurette, Director of Operations, MJHL. “These players are able to play important minutes against older competition which translates into the players being better prepared for when they make that next step to Major Junior Hockey.” The inaugural WHL Prospect Watch features Neepawa Natives 16-year-old defenseman Sam Stewart. Sam Stewart admits it was the toughest decision of his still very young life. At 16, he had to make a decision that would have significant consequences well into the future. Play NCAA college hockey? Or sign on with a Western Hockey League team? Flip a coin: tails it’s the Dub. Heads its college. If it were only that simple. “I was very, very nervous,” admits the talented Neepawa Natives’ defenseman. “It (the decision) was pretty much all I could focus on for a couple of weeks. I was lucky that I could talk to some very good people.” In the end, Stewart signed a WHL card with Tri-City Americans. That decision would then slam the door on the NCAA hockey route. “I spoke to my assistant coach (Ryan Menei), my billet (Matt Lowry), who both had similar decisions to make when they were younger. They could relate to me. We had very good talks. It was a tough decision, but it’s one I feel confident making.” Many players find themselves in similar situations as Stewart. The decision does not come without significant mental stress. In the end, Stewart came away feeling pretty good. But, then he picked up the phone and notified the college team which was interested in him. “It was a tough call,” remembers Stewart. “Honestly, I had gone back and forth a couple of times on my decision. I spoke to them (college coach) and explained my decision. I  know they’ve heard it before from other players.” Stewart is considered a blue-chip prospect: he’s both athletically gifted and academically strong. “I get 90s in school,” said Stewart, who is 6-foot, 180-pounds. In the end, the Western Hockey League won out. “Tri-City really showed a lot of interest in me,” said Stewart. “Their GM (Bob Torry) flew into Winnipeg to watch me during our Showcase. That means a lot. I looked at everything when I made my decision. The length of the schedule, daily practices, the competition level. It made sense for me to go the WHL route.” Stewart, who hails from Winnipeg, also credits his time in the MJHL for helping him prepare for the next step in his hockey career. Moving to Neepawa was a major adjustment for the city kid. But, like thousands of others before him, leaving home at a young age comes with the hockey adventure. “The MJHL is a very good league,” he said. “There’s a lot of skill here. It was definitely an adjustment for me, moving from midget to Junior A. Guys are faster. Stronger. Older.” And the Natives couldn’t be happier for Stewart. "Sam is a skilled defenseman that plays older than his age,” said Natives’ GM Myles Cathcart.  “He sees the ice extremely well, plays in all situations and is a student of the game." “Sam was able to develop this season so that he is ready to play at the next level.  He is a quality young man off the ice and exhibits a professional attitude towards the game of hockey." In the meantime, Stewart is focused on a number of short-term goals: helping Neepawa make the playoffs, continuing to improve his game and join the Americans when his MJHL season comes to an end. “I feel so relieved that I’ve made my decision. Now I can focus on other things which can help me improve. I’m also having fun: and that means a lot too.” Note: A full list of the MJHL (1999, 2000) players currently signed in the Western Hockey League is available here.  

The Penticton Vees Jr. A Hockey Club is proud to announce Sun Life Financial as the Presenting sponsor of the 2017 Western Canada Cup. The tournament runs April 29th – May 7th at the South Okanagan Events Centre. Director of Player Development & Corporate Sales David Michaud is excited about the partnership, “Sun Life Financial has a long history of partnering with some of the premier names in Canadian sports like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and the Canadian Football League. We’re honoured that they think enough of the job we’re doing here in Penticton to want to partner with us, and help in our objective of making the 2017 Western Canada Cup the best one to date.”   The Official Western Canada Cup event logo is now inclusive of the Sun Life Financial trademark. The logo is based on the classic shield and banner motif, and reflects the four leagues through use of the four stars in the banner. “We are so proud to have the opportunity to support such a well-known event, especially at a local level,” said Jason Schnitzler, Sun Life Financial Centre Manager. “Many of our advisors across the company have deep roots in the hockey world, and to be able give something back is very humbling. We are looking forward to our partnership, and being part of the 2017 Western Canada Cup!” About Sun Life Financial: Sun Life Financial is a Canadian operated business that was founded more than 150 years, and they are an industry leader in wealth solutions, with a client base of millions of individuals and thousands of companies across the country. Sun Life Financial advisors form the largest dedicated life, health and investment services network in Canada.  They have nearly 4,000 advisors in more than 1,200 communities across the country. About the Western Canada Cup: The Western Canada Cup features the four western league champions (BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba) and the host Penticton Vees. The Western Canada Cup Champion and the runner-up will both represent western Canada at the RBC Cup National Junior A Championship in Cobourg, Ontario. CONTACT:   FRASER RODGERS Director of Broadcasting & Media Relations FraserRodgers@gmail.com / (250) 809-1390  

Swan Valley Stampeders’ goaltender Brett Evans has been named this week’s Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week. Evans, 18, won back-to-back games for the Stamps who are in a heated playoff race. Evans, who hails from Grandview, MB, posted a GAA of 2.00 and save percentage of .950. He was also named first star in one of his victories. The runners up are 18 year old forward Gino Lucia of the Winkler Flyers and 20 year old forward Jake Dudar of the Selkirk Steelers.

By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent Portage Terriers forward James McIsaac is having himself a tremendous year. He is a top-10 scorer in the MJHL, his Terriers are chasing a historic three-peat as league champions, and he’s also on the radar of scouts across North America. The 17-year-old Winnipeg native was the lone MJHL representative at the recently-held CJHL Top Prospect’s Game in Cornwall, Ont. The yearly showcase pits the top draft-eligible junior A players head-to-head in front of fans and scouts from the NHL, WHL and colleges both north and south of the border. Appearing in this contest is an opportunity to be seen alongside other draft-eligible peers, and for McIsaac, it was a memorable moment in his young hockey career. “It was a great experience to play with some of the top-end players in the Canadian Junior Hockey League,” said McIsaac, who had 25 goals and 25 assists after 43 games this year for the Terriers. “I was able to play in a fast-paced game with some of the most skilled players in the CJHL.” McIsaac knew of the event, which has featured many players who have gone on to be drafted and played in the NHL and earned many scholarships at NCAA schools. And when he was announced as one of this year’s participants, he knew it was a fantastic opportunity. “I knew what the concept of the event was, but all I had was a wish to make the team,” he said. “And when I did, I was obviously very excited.” Outside of the on-ice action, McIsaac was put through the paces with some testing, while also getting the opportunity to listen to speakers who have walked the path they are all currently on – making this more than just a chance to play with other draft-eligible players in front of scouts. “After we dropped off our bags at the rink, we all met at the hotel for lunch, with both teams involved,” he said. “Then we had some guest speakers, former NHL players (Chad Kilger and Jesse Winchester) talked to us, and it was very interesting to hear what they had to say.” Back at the arena, McIsaac and company were put through their paces, all under the watchful eyes of scouts in the stands. “The next morning we had on-ice testing, where they tested our speed, stops and starts, turns, that sort of stuff,” said McIsaac. “I had never done something like that before, so that was pretty cool.” After the game, the dressing room had many scouts coming and going, speaking to players right after they skated. And the MJHL’s representative was no exception. “We all know there was going to be scouts and coaches in the stands, and before the game I tried not to let that stress me out,” said McIsaac. “After the game, a bunch came into the room, so that was exciting, especially since I talked to a couple of them.” McIsaac says he would love the chance to play NCAA hockey following his junior A career, but also knows that taking part in the Top Prospect’s game opens the door for the potential to be drafted in the upcoming NHL draft. “It’s been my dream to play NCAA hockey, but (being drafted) could also happen, and that would be a dream come true as well,” he said.

The RBC Player of the Month for January is forward George King of the OCN Blizzard. King, 18, exploded on the scoring sheet with 17 points (11-6) in 12 games, earning him RBC Player of the Month honours. The high-scoring forward had three, multi-point games, highlighted by a five-point performance in one game. Aligning to RBC’s #Someday platform, King’s #Someday is "to win a MJHL Championship with a great group of guys and earn a NCAA Division 1 Scholarship.” A native of Calgary, King was also selected a first star twice last month, in addition to a second-star selection. Currently, he sits second in team scoring with 27 goals and 37 points; six goals coming via the powerplay. The runners up are 19 year old forward Bradley Schoonbaert of the Steinbach Pistons and 18 year old forward Nathan Halvorsen of the Selkirk Steelers. Sher-Wood-MJHL Defenceman of the Month The Sher-wood Defenceman of the Month for January is Taylor Fisher of the Selkirk Steelers. Fisher, 20, was steady on the blueline for the Steelers, who currently sit third overall in the standings with 31 wins and 65 points. Offensively, the product of Winnipeg contributed 10 points (5-5) in 10 games. The runners up are 19 year old Tyler Anderson of the Steinbach Pistons and 17 year old Tyler Jubenvill of the Winkler Flyers. MGEU-MJHL Goaltender of the Month With eight wins in January, Roman Bengert of the Steinbach Pistons has been named the MGEU Goaltender of the Month. Bengert, 20, posted an outstanding 1.99 GAA and .939 save percentage in nine games. His stellar play also resulted in him being a named a game star on five occasions. A native of Cole Harbour, NS, Bengert leads all MJHL goaltenders with 28 wins and five shutouts. He’s committed to suit up next season with Lake Superior State. The runners up are 19 year old Brett Epp of the OCN Blizzard and 20 year old Brandon Holtby of the Dauphin Kings. IBAM-MJHL Rookie of the Month With 14 points scored in January, forward Will Koop of the Steinbach Pistons has been named the IBAM Rookie of the Month. Koop, 18, scored six goals in 12 games last month, highlighted by four, multi-point games. Currently, the native of Winnipeg sits third in Piston scoring with 40 points (16-24) in 41 games. The runners up are 16 year old defenseman Layne Toder of the Portage Terriers and 16 year old defenseman Marco Creta of the Virden Oil Capitals. Manitoba Pork Peak Performer of the Month The Manitoba Pork Peak Performer of the Month for January is Levi Cudmore of the Winnipeg Blues. Cudmore, who hails from Park River, ND, has been leading the Winnipeg Blues both on and off the ice this season.  He has been very involved in book reading programs aimed at local schools in Winnipeg. Cudmore, 19, also spends his time helping grow the game of hockey by volunteering at numerous hockey practices with local minor hockey teams in Winnipeg.

The Steinbach Pistons are excited to announce that Goaltender Roman Bengert has committed to Lake Superior State University Lakers of the NCAA Division 1. The news has brought excitement and relief for the Pistons 20 year-old starting net-minder who will now be continuing his hockey career at the highest collegiate level in the United States. “It definitely is exciting, but I also feel a sense of relief,” said Bengert, who grew up in Kyoto, Japan, moving to Canada when he was eight years-old. “I’m glad to be able to just focus on the Pistons and what we do with this special season.” Bengert is helping backstop the Pistons to potentially their best season yet. Steinbach caught everyone’s attention when they kicked off the year with a 13-0-0 record, capturing the top spot in the CJHL’s top twenty rankings in the first four weeks of the season and have stayed in the top 10 since. The success Bengert is seeing today hasn’t come easy. The goaltender’s persistence early in his junior career helped him stay the course despite not being in the most ideal situation. He started his hockey playing days in his hometown of Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia. He soon realized that if he wanted to achieve his goal of a NCAA Division 1 scholarship he was going to have to consider moving west. “Part of the reason I didn’t stick around on the east coast was that it was mainly just about hockey,” he said. “In the MJHL, specifically the Pistons, it was about more.” Bengert bounced between three teams in his first year of junior hockey. The adventure started with one game in the CCHL with the Smiths Falls Bears, 15 games with the Point Mallard Ducks of the North American 3 Hockey League and then back home to play 9 games with the Cole Harbour Colts of the Nova Scotia Junior Hockey League.  That is a total of 6,149 kilometres of travel just between those communities. And the travel didn’t stop there, this time he decided to kick off his 19 year-old season by making the 3,475 kilometre trip from Cole Harbour out to Steinbach, Manitoba after receiving advice from his goaltender coach Steve Briere. “I had been speaking with Briere in the spring/summer of 2015 about our goaltending needs, and he said he had a goalie in mind and felt he just needed an opportunity,” said Pistons Head Coach and General Manager Paul Dyck. “After speaking with Roman several times that summer, we decided to bring him in and it was a very good decision.” Bengert made the team and would eventually play himself into the starting position as the Pistons made a deep playoff run. The positive for Bengert was that he didn’t get moved, he had the luxury of playing on the same team for an entire year and better yet, he was guaranteed the starting job the following season.  He embraced the new role of the starting goaltender and attracted immediate attention posting a 2.02 GAA, .929 SV%, 28-4-0 record and 5 shutouts so far this season. There were multiple people watching and asking about Bengert, but it was Lake Superior State University that snatched him up first. “Lake Superior has a strong past as well as a young team that has potential to be successful in the near future,” he said about the Lakers, who were NCAA Tournament Champions in 1988, 1992 and 1994. “I also feel that I have an opportunity to earn a meaningful role on the team in my collegiate career.” And Bengert was quick to recognize that he wouldn’t have had this opportunity if it wasn’t for the Steinbach Pistons. “Steinbach is home to one of the classiest Junior ‘A’ organizations in the country and offers extensive support to those wanting to reach the next level,” he added. “I simply cannot express how thankful I am for the Pistons and the entire Steinbach community.” The Steinbach Pistons are very proud of Roman’s recent accomplishments. “We are extremely excited about the opportunity that lies ahead for Roman,” said Dyck. “He has put together a strong body of work over the past two season and is very deserving of this commitment.

Thanks to an offensively productive week, George King of the OCN Blizzard has been named this week’s Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week. King, 18, produced seven points (2-5) in three games for the Blizzard. The native of Calgary earned second star selection in one game after he exploded for five points (2-3). Currently, King sits second in team scoring with 27 goals and 37 points in 43 games. The runners up are 20 year old defenseman Ryan Carlson of the Steinbach Pistons and 19 year old forward Matt Christian of the Winkler Flyers.

To say the Dauphin Kings’ Ukrainian Night on Saturday was a success would be an understatement. In case you missed it the Kings and Ruff’s Furniture in Dauphin hosted over 1700 […]

New this season, in addition to the Manitoba Young Guns Series, the Manitoba Junior Hockey League is highlighting current MJHL Midget Prospects in our MJHL-In the System Series.  We will look at players who are currently listed by an MJHL team and look to be a big part of that team’s future. The players chosen are all exceptional kids both on-and-off the ice and all have bright futures in the game of hockey.   MJHL-In the System Player Profile | Ben Coppinger Selkirk Steelers Prospect Position: Forward Number: 17 Height: 5’9” Weight: 160 Hometown: Winnipeg, MB Team: Winnipeg Wild AAA Ben is an assistant captain for the AAA Midget League leading Winnipeg Wild where he currently has registered 14 goals, 17 assists for 31 points in 32 games played.  He was a 1st Round Pick for the Steelers in the 2015 MJHL Bantam Draft and was a late release for the Steelers this fall as a 16-year-old. Ken Petrash-General Manager of the Selkirk Steelers on Coppinger:  "Ben’s work ethic is 2nd to none and the Steelers fully expect Ben to make the jump to the MJHL with the Steelers next season, where we believe Ben will be a fan favorite in Steeltown”

An integral part of the Steinbach Pistons for the past three years, Julien Koga has been forced to leave the game of hockey that he loves so much, and those fellow players that are so much more than just his teammates, because of recurring concussions. Koga, 19, in his third season with the hockey club, has garnered a tremendous amount of respect, both on and off the ice, because of his demeanour, and his commitment to the community and the team. Named an assistant captain this year, Koga was a key leader of this hockey club, as he has played a big role in helping the Pistons set the pace all season long in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, a team that is currently ranked fifth in the country. One of the fastest skaters in the MJHL, Koga said he has had five concussions over the past five years, "one a year dating back to bantam." A concussion last season nearly forced the Winnipeg native from the game as doctors said it was his decision whether he would keep playing, cautioning that with each subsequent concussion, the symptoms could get worse. Well it happened again in early January, and this time, with the same advice from the medical staff, he has decided he will not play again. These last two or three weeks since the decision was made to retire from the game has been an emotional time for Koga, as well as his teammates and others around him. "I was honoured this year to be named one of the team’s assistant captains," Koga said in an interview with The Carillon on Monday, "So this is tough not being able to be on the ice anymore." "I was really excited coming into the season, perhaps being able to have an influence on some of the younger players as part of the leadership group." But he says Coach Paul Dyck has made sure he can still be part of the team in any capacity he chooses, even though he is no longer playing. "I will be with the team and at as many games as I can, both home and away, I hope to still have an influence with some of the guys." "It was so much fun this year, the success we are having, it will be a big change of pace for me, it will take a while to adjust," said Koga, who is now enrolled full time at the U of M studying science after being a part time student the past year and a half while playing for the Pistons. Koga says he has grown to love Steinbach in his three years here, "my teammates, the fans, my billets, this city has just been incredible, you don’t get this anywhere else in the league." He has been working with Dr. Ellis from the Pan Am Concussion Clinic, who is also an associate of Dave Blatz from Eastman Therapy Centre in Steinbach. Blatz is the medical director for the Pistons and conducts all the concussion protocols on each member of the Pistons at the start of every season, "it provides a base line that can be very helpful in diagnosing a possible concussion." When Koga made the decision with this family he was going to quit hockey because of further injury, the first people he told in Steinbach, were his billets, Russ and Shannon Dyck, where he spent the past three hockey seasons. "They have been so good to me, like a second home." Shannon Dyck says it was a difficult time for all of them, "you become so close to these players, they live with you for eight months of the year, he is welcome back anytime to our home." Although Koga is back in Winnipeg living with his parents, he expects to crash from time to time, "at his second home." Koga also has a relationship with a young boy in Mitchell as a Big Brother and is continuing with that relationship. Paul Dyck says they will not be naming another assistant captain with Koga’s absence, "partly out of respect for what he has meant to our hockey team, and that is why we have invited him to remain part of the organization." "Our priority is Julien’s health," said Dyck, "this has been a very emotional time for everyone, Julien is a big part of our room, with strong friendships, all of our players have been impacted by this." "Paul has been very supportive," said Koga, "he was a coach I just loved playing for." "I have made lifelong friends playing here in Steinbach, players such as Bo (team captain Jordan Bochinski) we have been together for three years." As for the current season, that has seen the Pistons lead the league since day one of the season, Koga says "we have all bought into the system, the guys realize we have something special here, it comes through hard work, our work ethic every night. We still have a long ways to go, but I plan to be in Penticton with the boys." The MJHL champions will represent the league at the Crescent Point Western Canada Cup the first weekend of May at Penticton, and Koga and company have every intention of being there, that is the goal. "I am proud to be a Steinbach Piston." (Article and Photo courtesy of Terry Frey at TheCarillon.com)  

The Winkler Flyers are pleased to announce defenseman Lawson McDonald’s (97) commitment to the University of Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks (NCAA Div I) for the 2017-2018 season. The Rosetown, Manitoba native is currently in his fourth season with the Flyers and has developed into one of the best all-around defensemen in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. “We are thrilled that Lawson has made the choice to attend UNO,” said Flyers Head Coach and General Manager Ken Pearson. “Lawson is not only a great player in this league, he is also a great person and student and will no doubt do very well at UNO” added Pearson. Currently, McDonald has 117 points (23 Goals – 94 Assists) in 190 regular season games played with the Flyers. The 5’10”, 175lbs blueliner plays key minutes in all situations and has also served as an Assistant Captain the past two seasons. McDonald joined the Flyers as a 16 year old during the 2013-2014 season, and has been a great ambassador for the Flyers, the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and the Winkler Community. The University of Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks are one of the top programs in college hockey and play in the NCHC Conference of NCAA Division I Men's Hockey with the likes of the University of North Dakota, Denver, St. Cloud State, Minnesota-Duluth, Miami, Western Michigan and Colorado College. McDonald will join former Flyers’ forward Tristan Keck on the Mavericks roster next season. Keck is in his Freshman season at NO after committing to the Mavericks after the 2015-2016 season. The entire Flyers organization would like to congratulate Lawson on his decision to continue his hockey career and education at the University of Nebraska-Omaha next season and look forward to seeing him finish out his Flyers career on a high note this year.

Manitoba Young Guns Series New this season, the Manitoba Junior Hockey League is highlighting upcoming and current MJHL Prospects from each minor hockey association that supports an MJHL organization along with Brandon and Thompson. The players chosen are all exceptional kids both on-and-off the ice and all have bright futures in the game of hockey. Follow along and share as we release a new Manitoba Young Guns Profile bi-weekly on our website and through our social media platforms. Manitoba Young Guns Series Player Profile – Jamie Valentino Jamie is having a strong season for the Norman B1 Wolves where he is the Captain and leading scorer. He was also recently selected to the Winnipeg AAA All Star Weekend where he participated in the B1 All Star Game and Skills Event. Hometown: Thompson, Manitoba Weight: 140 Height: 5’10” Position: Forward Number: 20 Shoots: L Team: Norman AAA Bantam Wolves What kind of player are you? I have good speed and I am a playmaker that can also score. Interests/Hobbies: Fishing, wakeboarding, ball hockey and snowboarding. Achievements (sport and/or academically): I am an Honour roll student and my best hockey achievement so far is being selected to the AAA Bantam All Star game and skills event. What are your hockey goals for the future? My hockey goals are to make AAA Midget as a 15-year-old and to be drafted in the WHL and MJHL Bantam Drafts. Norman Wolves Head Coach Rob Bilawka on Valentino:  Jamie is a team leader on and off the ice. He has good speed, is a good two-way player and has the ability to score goals. His commitment to hockey off the ice begins in the summer months with his brothers Justin (CIS University of Lethbridge) and Jordan (Ocn Blizzard) help with his training and focus on the game. This commitment will give Jamie many opportunities in to reach his future hockey goals.

By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent It’s been a dream start to his junior career for Portage la Prairie product and MJHL alumni Nick Henry. Last season as a 16-year-old, Henry was named the top rookie in the MJHL rookie following a stellar season with his hometown Terriers. He helped them to their second straight league championship, and then came oh so close to playing in the RBC Cup – the national championship for junior A hockey. Henry made the move to the WHL’s Regina Pats this fall, and success has continued to follow him – both on a personal and team level. The 6’0, 190-pound winger is currently the second-leading rookie scorer in the Western Hockey League – scoring more than a point a game – while the Pats are the top seed in the Eastern Division and are a strong contender for the league championship. Talk about a dream start to junior hockey. Coming out of training camp Henry had the smallest of windows to prove he could not only play at the major junior level, but excel. He made the most of that opportunity – and then some. “Starting this year off, it was a tough decision for my family to come here (to Regina), but when I did come there were a lot of players away at NHL camps, and that kind of gave myself and some other young guys the opportunity to step in and play big minutes for the first four games,” he said. “I was able to jump on a line with Sam Steel and Dawson Leedahl and we clicked. “Sam is signed in the NHL (with the Anaheim Ducks) and he’s a really special player to play with, and watching him play every game and he the way he works is a really neat experience, and I want to get to where he is,” added Henry. Playing on two dominant teams in back-to-back seasons has provided Henry a window to showcase his skills. And though young in age, he’s mature enough to realize having a legitimate chance at winning a championship in back-to-back years is unique opportunity. “I’m really lucky to play on a team like this,” he said. “Even last year (with the Portage Terriers), after winning the RBC Cup the year before, they were not expected to do as much, but Blake (Spiller, Terriers head coach) was able to put together another strong team like he always does and we were able to win it and come one win away from the RBC Cup. “And this year in Regina we have a lot of special players, and made some good deals to make us better for this year and next year, and it’s really exciting to be a part of.” Reached on a Monday afternoon hitting the books for his high school classes, Henry noted he feels his success this year in the WHL is due in part to his being able to play junior A hockey in the MJHL as a 16-year-old rookie. “The WHL is really built for 17, 18 and 19-year-old players, and a few 20-year-olds” said Henry. “Being a 16-year-old playing in the MJHL still offered me really good competition, and the ability to play with really good players, and I think it prepared me by showing me what junior hockey is like. The WHL is a different league than the MJHL, but the MJHL was still a great league to play in. “Blake (Spiller) was a really good coach and he taught me to be a good player, and I have to give him a lot of credit for that.” With 21 goals and 47 points in his first 41 games Henry is building himself quite the resume. His mid-term NHL draft ranking is 25th overall for North American players.  “It is great to see what Nick is doing in Regina and his success is a testament to his drive and dedication to continually working towards reaching his future goals in hockey,” MJHL Director of Operations Kevin Saurette said. “He is a great example to younger players in Manitoba and is a great example of how playing in the MJHL for a year or two can benefit younger players and allow them the opportunity to be better prepared for success when making the next step into the WHL.” And with a long playoff run looming, don’t be too surprised to see his stock continue to rise as his dream of being selected in the NHL likely changes from dream to reality this June.