Winnipeg Blues defenseman Ryan Bittner has committed to Wisconsin-Stevens Point for the upcoming season. The 20 year old defenseman put up 42 points in 57 games last season for the Blues.  Bittner says the season was very good, but the end was disappointing. "Definitely not how anyone of us wanted the season to end." Bittner says talking about the Blues early exit from the post season. "For myself, I feel I had a pretty slow start but thought my game really picked up and I had a good second half" Bittner finished 5th on the team in assists (35) while playing in all situations against the top lines in the MJHL. "The level in the league was very high these past two years and it helped me make quicker decisions and learn to really go with the flow of the game without doing too much." Wisconsin-Stevens Point is a NCAA Division III school, and Bittner knows the level is going to be even higher than the MJHL, but feels he's prepared. "The coaching staff knew when to be tough on me and when to back off." adds Bittner. "They would show me different ways of looking at the game which in turn developed my game to where I am now." And with the level of play many Blues fans saw Bittner playing at last year, it won't take long for Bittner to be a key player for Wisconsin-Stevens Point. The native of Crookston Minnesota is planning on majoring in Athletic Training.

Blues forward Joren Johnson is heading to the University of Alberta Augustan to suit up with the Vikings for the upcoming season. Johnson joined the Blues midway through the season from OCN. The 20 year old notched 16 points in 43 games as well as adding three assists in 9 playoff games for the Blues.

Submitted by Neepawa Natives Neepawa Natives forward, Ashton Anderson, recently played for Team Manitoba at the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC). He had a successful tournament with one goal and six assists. His team paralleled that success by winning all of their round robin games before falling to the eventual champion, Saskatchewan, in the semifinals. Ashton played an important role on the club, by leading his club in points in the playoff round while playing key minutes throughout the tournament. The NAHC is a tournament is an annual event since 2002 that gathers elite Aboriginal hockey players throughout the country. The event has garnered much success as former NHLers such as Carey Price have been involved with NAHC championships in the past. The NAHC provide a forum for elite Midget aged Aboriginal hockey players, which attracts participation from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis within each of the thirteen Provinces and Territories of Canada. When asked about his time at the championship Ashton replied, “The NAHC in Halifax was a great experience; I met some great people and made some new friends. Unfortunately, we ended up losing in the bronze medal game, but we definitely had the team to win it… we just ran into a couple hot goaltenders.” Aston continued to share his thoughts about how his experience as a Neepawa Native helped him at the national event, “My time with the Natives last season helped me a lot at the tournament, it just felt like I had more time to make plays than I do playing against guys in the MJHL.” “I took on bigger roles at this tournament playing on the power play, and penalty kill. It's always a great honour representing your province at a national event.” Neepawa Natives General Manager, Myles Cathcart, suggested it was no surprise how well Anderson did at the national event as he watched Anderson compete at a high level as each and every night. “Ashton is a highly competitive player and is one of the hardest working players in the entire league. He competes each shift and his energy has a way of motivating his teammates.” Cathcart continued, “He has a great skill set and he will continue to develop as he gains more experience at the junior level.” “There was a reason we selected him first overall, teams are built around players of his stature.” The General Manager went on to say, “We are always extremely proud of our players that are able to achieve a higher level, which in this case is Ashton’s recognition at a national event”. The Manitoba squad featured other MJHLer’s like Linden McCorrister (Swan Valley), Tristan Langan (Swan Valley), and Shane Roulette (Waywayseecappo). The Neepawa Natives would like to extend congratulations to Ashton and the entire Manitoba team, “Ashton is an important player for the Natives as we take the next step with our program,” “We feel that his experience at NAHC will help Ashton to garner more success as a Neepawa Natives in the years to come.”  

By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent Denmark continues to be a hockey country on the rise, and Swan Valley Stampeders’ goaltender Lasse Petersen recently helped keep the momentum going forward with a gold-medal performance on the world stage. Petersen played every minute of every game for Denmark at the recently-completed IIHF Ice Hockey Under 18 Men’s World Hockey Championship (Division 1, Group A). The Danes faced off against five other countries in a round-robin tournament where the top team would move up to the ‘A’ pool next spring. And with Petersen in goal, Denmark went a perfect 5-0, capping off the tournament with 2-1 victory over Norway to clinch top spot. Petersen was named the player of the game in the contest, and made a late game, stellar glove-hand save to ensure Demark got the ‘W’. “Of course there were some butterflies before the game, as it was an exciting and very important game” said Petersen. “But you try not to worry. You trust how you got there, and that you’ll have a successful game.” Other results saw Denmark beat Kazakhstan 5-2, stop France 4-1, edge Belarus 4-3 in overtime, and stomp on host Hungary 9-1. Not unexpectedly, Petersen’s stats were the best among goaltenders in the tournament. He posted a .936 save percentage along with a 1.60 GAA. He only allowed eight goals in five tournament games. This is the second time Petersen has taken part in this tournament, though he saw much more ice time this year. “I was in this last year in Finland, though I didn’t get much playing time,” he said. “But it was a great experience. This year was one of the biggest events I’ve been in.” His father and coach, Erik Petersen, kept up on the action from Debrecen, Hungary via his computer, and said the calibre of hockey roughly compares to that of the MJHL, though of course the players are all less than 18 years of age. “Lasse told me the level was very close to that of our league,” said Erik. “It was a more controlled game. It wasn’t as physical, and they try to move the goaltenders before they shoot, so the number of shots he faced was a little lower than what he was used to in the MJHL.” Denmark has now moved up in the under 18 men’s hockey division, and at last winter’s World Junior Hockey Championship, Denmark was the darling of the tournament, remaining in the top tier pool after their strongest showing ever. The Stampeders’ bench boss, who coached for many years in Denmark prior to returning to Canada two seasons ago, says an overhaul in how they develop hockey talent is starting to pay dividends. “They started a program eight years ago where they combined the hockey with the school – and it wasn’t just hockey, it included soccer and other sports,” he said. “You could opt into a special school in Grade 7, and instead of Physical Education, you could play hockey. “So they would be practicing hockey instead of taking Phys Ed, and then there would be the normal hockey, which usually included four practices a week,” he added. “So kids would be getting seven practices a week, plus two to three dry land sessions. You do that from Grade 7 to Grade 12 and you’re basically running a professional program.” With a smaller population, Erik Petersen said this program allows Denmark to compete with larger countries, and so far it looks like its working. Following his performance in this tournament, Lasse Petersen’s stock is clearly on the rise. And there is the potential the young net minder might find himself courted by teams at a higher level and that he won’t be back with the Stampeders next season. His coach and father has no mixed feelings about that possibility – and that goes for all players on the Stampeders. “I don’t have any mixed feelings – anytime I coach a player, and if they can move onward and upward, then that’s what I’m here to do,” said Erik Petersen. “If their goal is to play at the highest level next year – whether that’s the USHL, the WHL, or going to college early – that’s just something we have to deal with here in the MJHL. “And I’m here to move the players onward and upward.” Lasse Petersen said if those chances present themselves, he’ll look at them. But his focus will remain on working hard and playing his best on whatever team he’s on this fall. “I had a great team in front of me in Hungary so I wasn’t tested that much, but you never know (if other teams are interested),” he said. “I’m just going to control what I can control, keep working hard, and see where that takes me.”

Portage Terriers’ dream season just got a bit better ─ Blake Spiller has been named the CJHL Coach of the Year. Under Spiller’s careful guidance, Terriers lost only three games in regulation time this past season. The best-ever in the MJHL history. “This is a fantastic honour for Blake and the Terrier organization,” MJHL Commissioner Kim Davis said. “It confirms the high-level of talent we have in our league both on the ice and on the bench.” Spiller took over as head coach of Portage in 2006 and has been re-writing the record books ever since. No Terrier coach has won as many regular season games, playoff games or championships as Spiller. A Portage la Prairie native, Blake first made a name for himself with the Terriers as a player in the early 80's. Spiller played several seasons for the club, his final as team captain. He returned to the Terrier fold in 2001 as an assistant coach where he spent five years in that role.  He got his chance in 2006 when he assumed the head coach's role and the team has seen unprecedented success ever since. The local product has led the Terriers to Turnbull Cup victories in 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2015.  The 2014 – 2015 MJHL Coach of the Year had a record of 53 wins, 3 losses, 4 overtime losses and 110 pts finishing 25 points ahead of the second place Steinbach Pistons. Congratulations to the Top Finalists for the 2014 CJHL Coach of the Year Award. ∙             Jason Clarke, Carleton Place Canadians, CCHL ∙             Jason McKee, Spruce Grove Saints, AJHL ∙             James Richmond, Aurora Tigers, OJHL ∙             Jason Tatarnic, Chilliwack Chiefs, BCHL The CJHL awards recognize individual success in the 10 Junior A leagues across Canada including, Most Valuable Player, Top Forward, Top Defenceman, Top Goaltender, Rookie of the Year, Top NHL Draft Prospect and Coach of the Year. About the CJHL – The Canadian Junior Hockey League is a national organization comprised of all 10 Junior A hockey leagues in Canada. The CJHL represents 129 teams and 2,900 players and has over 2,900 alumni furthering their hockey careers at the professional, major junior and college levels across North America.  For the latest CJHL news and features, visit www.cjhlhockey.com and follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/cjhlhockey or @cjhlhockey.  

WEST 1 Representative  Penticton Vees Their WCC Story: The Penticton Vees continued their dominant play at the Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup in Fort McMurray Alberta last week. The BCHL club rolled to victory at the five team tournament, edging the RBC Cup host Portage Terriers 4-3 in overtime. Don’t worry, the two teams will meet again for a rematch in the RBC Cup’s opening contest Saturday afternoon. Penticton won the RBC Cup in 2012, this is their first time back at the national tournament since then.   Western Canada Cup Rundown (4-1): Beat Spruce Grove (AJHL) 11-3 Beat Fort McMurray (AJHL) 6-0 Lost to Portage (MJHL) 3-2 Beat Melfort (SJHL) 3-1 Championship Game: Beat Portage 4-3 in OT Top WCC Scorer: Dakota Conroy (2G & 6A in 5GP) Neat: Conroy (20 years) played in the BCHL for the first time this season. Before this year he spent his time in the WHL, he had stints with the Brandon Wheat Kings, Prince Albert Raiders and Victory Royals. In that span in the WHL he racked up 137 points in 214 games.   Top WCC Goalie: Hunter Miska – 4-1 / 1.99 GAA / .932 SV% / 1 SO Neat: Miska, a University of Minnesota-Duluth commit, was named Top Goaltender and Most Valuable Playerof the Western Canada Cup. WEST 2 Representative Melfort Mustangs Their WCC Story: The SJHL’s Melfort Mustangs were happy the Portage Terriers came to the Western Canada Cup. With the RBC Cup host in the event it meant that three teams would go to the national tournament. The game the Mustangs needed to win was the Saturday afternoon affair against the host Fort McMurray Oil Barons. They did, beating them 4-2 to advance.  Melfort’s record at the WCC was 2-4, although you shouldn’t put too much into that, considering the last game they played was a meaningless one. Give the Mustangs credit though, they won the games they had to to get into the RBC Cup.  Melfort is back at the RBC Cup for the first time since 1996 when they hosted the five team tournament.   Western Canada Cup Rundown (2-4): Lost to Portage (MJHL) 6-3 Beat Spruce Grove (AJHL) 4-3 in OT Lost to Penticton (BCHL) 3-1 Lost to Fort McMurray (AJHL) 3-2 in OT Berth Game: Beat Fort McMurray 4-2 Lost to Portage 4-2 Neat: Despite grabbing RBC Cup berth, the Mustangs were the fourth place team at the WCC with an overall record of 2-4.   Top WCC Scorer: Justin Boyer (3G & 2A in 6GP) Top WCC Goalie: Richard Palmer – 2-3 / 2.91 GAA / .910 SV%   HOST Team Portage Terriers Their WCC Story: Even though they didn’t bring home the Western Canada Cup it was a successful tournament for the Manitoba Junior Hockey League’s Portage Terriers. They finished the round robin atop the standings and were one goal away from taking the title. The Terriers also saw a couple players win awards at the event, including Landon Peel who was named one of the tournament’s Top D-men. Portage is back at the RBC Cup for the first time since 2012 in Humboldt.   Western Canada Cup Rundown (4-2): Lost to Fort McMurray (AJHL) 3-1 Beat Melfort (SJHL) 6-3 Beat Penticton (BCHL) 3-2 Beat Spruce Grove (AJHL) 4-2 Championship Game: Lost to Penticton 4-3 in OT Beat Melfort 4-2 Top WCC Scorer: Brad Bowles (1G & 6A in 6GP) Neat: Bowles was named a Top Forward at the Western Canada Cup. Top WCC Goalie: Justin Laforest – 2-2 / 2.74 GAA / .905 SV% Neat: Laforest will meet his former team at the RBC Cup, the CCHL’s Carleton Place Canadians.   EAST Representative Carleton Place Canadians Their Story: Back at the RBC Cup for a second straight season fans will remember the Carleton Place Canadians as the team that bumped the Dauphin Kings out of the national tournament last year in Vernon BC. The CCHL club then went on to blow a 3-1 lead in the third period to fall to the SJHL’s Yorkton Terriers in the championship contest. This year Carleton Place is fuelled by thoughts of redemption, they finished with a 3-1 record at the Fred Page Cup.   Fred Page Cup Rundown (3-1): Beat Dieppe (MHL) 3-2 Lost to Cornwall (CCHL) 3-2 Beat Longueuil (QJHL) 4-2 Championship Game: Beat Dieppe 3-1 Top Fred Page Cup Scorer: Craig Pefley (1G & 5A in 4GP) Neat: Like a number of players on the Carleton Place Canadians this will be the second straight RBC Cup for Pefley. Last year he had two assists in the six contests he played in. Top Fred Page Cup Goalie: Guillaume Therien – 3-0 / 1.92 GAA / .933 SV% Neat: Therien has very good numbers when it comes to playoffs and tournaments. In his career with the Carleton Place Canadians he’s only had a goals against average above 2.50 once, that was at last year’s RBC Cup (2.82).   CENTRAL Representative Soo Thunderbirds Their Story: The Soo Thunderbirds, like Portage and Penticton, return to the RBC Cup for the first time since 2012 in Humboldt. That season they lost in the semi finals to Penticton. Soo only lost once at the Dudley Hewitt Cup last week. It was in overtime and to the winner of last year’s event, the Toronto Lakeshore Patriots. Soo doubled their opponents at the tournament, outscoring them 20-10 and finishing with a 3-1 record.   Dudley Hewitt Cup Rundown (3-1): Beat Dryden (SIJHL) 8-1 Beat Fort Francis (SIJHL) 6-3 Lost to Toronto Lakeshore (OJHL) 4-3 in OT Championship Game: Beat Fort Francis 3-2 Top Dudley Hewitt Cup Scorer: Boris Katchouk (3G & 3A in 4GP) Neat: Katchouk spent 12 games in the OHL this season with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds where he notched two assists. The 16 year old had 45 points in 29 games for the Thunderbirds during the regular season. Top Dudley Hewitt Cup Goalie: Mario Culina – 2-1 / 2.53 GAA / .904 SV% Neat: Culina had a very strong playoff run with Soo, his numbers were sparkling and included a 1.23 goals against average and a .945 save percentage.   RBC Cup Schedule (All times CDT) Saturday May 9 Penticton vs. Portage – 2:00pm Soo vs. Carleton Place – 7:00pm Sunday May 10 Melfort vs. Penticton – 2:00pm Portage vs. Carleton Place – 7:00pm Monday May 11 Melfort vs. Soo – 7:00pm Tuesday May 12 Carleton Place vs. Penticton – 2:00pm Soo vs. Portage – 7:00pm Wednesday May 13 Carleton Place vs. Melfort – 7:00pm Thursday May 14 Penticton vs. Soo – 2:00pm Portage vs. Melfort – 7:00pm Saturday May 16 Semi Final 1– 2:00pm Semi Final 2 – 7:00pm Sunday May 17 Championship Game – 7:00pm

Submitted by Dauphin Kings The Dauphin Kings are pleased to announce that 20 year old graduating defenceman, Ben Hull, has committed to Norwich University NCAA Div III for the 2015-16 season. Hull was a force on the Kings blueline this season. The 6’2”, 227 lb native of Littleton, CO, tied for the league lead in goals by defencemen with 17. Which included a league leading 11 goals on the power play by a defenceman. The big right hander finished the season with 17 goals, 20 assists for 37 points. Hull was named one of the co-receipients of the Dauphin Kings MVP trophy at season’s end. “Hullsy was very good for us this season.” stated Kings Assistant Coach Marc Berry. “There were some adjustments for him to make at the start of the season being new to the league, but once he found his comfort zone he took off. Hull has a big body and can pass and shoot the puck like a pro player. He should have a smooth transition into Div III hockey. We’re very happy for him and wish him all the best.” "Really big thank you goes out to the Dauphin Kings organization and the Dauphin community for the support and helping me become a better player/person.” Stated Hull. "This year has helped me mature on and off the ice and prepare me for the future.” The Dauphin Kings pride themselves on promoting players to the next level and would like to wish Ben all the best in his hockey and academic future!

The MJHL champion Portage Terriers continue their march to the RBC Cup, playing in the Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup.  Tonight, the Terriers, who went 3-1 in the round robin, play in the gold medal game against the Penticton Vees.  The WCC is being staged in Fort McMurray, Alberta.  Please click her for game summary. 

CALGARY, Alberta (May 1st, 2015) – The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) is pleased to announce the five finalists for the 2015 CJHL Most Valuable Player Award.  The MVP honour will be awarded to the player considered to have contributed the most to his teams’ success in the 2014 – 2015 regular season.  The five finalists for the 2015 CJHL MVP Award are spread across the country and represent the AJHL, BCHL, CCHL, OJHL and QJHL.  Stephen Baylis, Carleton Place Canadians, CCHL (54GP, 32G – 37A – 69PTS) A five year player for the CP Canadians and this year was selected team captain of one of the most successful franchises in the country. The CCHL’s most complete player was voted the league MVP while keeping them in the CJHL’s National Top 5 most of the year. He is without question the best penalty-killer in the CCHL anchoring Carleton Place unit which led that category with an impressive 88%. He also is a key cog on the Canadians power play which was over 20% in efficiency. Statistically, Stephen had an amazing year, putting up career highs. He had 32 goals (7th in league), 69 points (10th in league) including 6 shorthanded goals (2nd in league) all within the 54 games played. Stephen earned both a scholarship to NCAA’s Bowling Green and an invitation to attend the Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) Prospects camp.   Steve Hladin, Georgetown Raiders, OJHL (52GP, 41G – 63A – 104PTS) Steve Hladin led the OJHL scoring race virtually from start to finish, kicking-off the year with a 14 game point scoring streak, in a dominant performance during his fourth full OJHL season.  He led all scorers with 63 assists and 104 points in 52 regular season games played to also take home the 2014-15 Top Scorer Award. The 20-year old Mississauga, Ontario native became one of the greatest scorers in OJHL history, reaching a trio of impressive career milestones this season, including 100 career goals, 150 career assists and 250 career points, as well as more than 300 career points with regular season and playoffs combined.  Spending more time on the ice than in the penalty box, he would register just six penalty minutes all season long to also be voted as the OJHL Most Gentlemanly Player.  He was a member of Team OJHL Oates during the 2014 Central Canada Cup All-Star Challenge that was held in Toronto, notching three points in five games played.  He is committed to join the Sacred Heart University Pioneers beginning with the 2015-16 Atlantic Hockey Conference, NCAA Division I season.  Corey Mackin, Coquitlam Express, BCHL (58GP, 50G – 54A – 104PTS) Corey Mackin played 58 games and registered 50 goals, 54 Assists and 104 total points during the regular season.  Mackin became the first BCHL player in five seasons to reach the 50-goal mark and led the league with nine shorthanded tallies. He took the league’s Brett Hull award as top scorer and also was voted league MVP by the coaches. Mackin was assessed just four minor penalties on the season and was a finalist for the BCHL’s most sportsmanlike player. He has one more year of Junior A eligibility and is committed to NCAA’s Ferris State University.  Nic Renyard, Okotoks Oilers, AJHL (43 GP, 30 W – 3 L – 8 T – 2.19 GAA – .924 S% – 5 SO) Okotoks Oilers goaltender Nic Renyard was the 2014-2015 AJHL Most Valuable Player and Top Goaltender.  The 20 year-old goaltender is wrapping up a record setting regular season for the Oilers and led all AJHL goaltenders in the areas of wins and save percentage.  Renyard set a new franchise record for most shutouts and set the single season franchise record for lowest goals against average as well.  The Victoria, BC goaltender joined the Oilers from the BCHL in September 2014 and kicked off the season by recording 13 games without a regulation loss (12-0-1).  Throughout the season, Nic amassed two 7+ game winning streaks.  Renyard was the recipient of the Viterra AJHL Player of the Game five times, and was also named as the Alberta Dodge Dealers AJHL Player of the Month in October 2014 when he posted a 8-0 record.  Renyard has committed to the University of Massachusetts Minutemen of the NCAA Division I Hockey East Conference. Marc-Anthony Therrien, Princeville Titans, QJHL (50GP, 63G – 70A – 133PTS) Center Marc-Anthony Therrien was the leader of his team and finished 1st in QJHL scoring, with 63 goals, 70 assists and 133 points in 50 games.  He also finished with a plus/minus of +61.  He was a key player in his team finishing with the Division title. Therrien was selected as the QJHL Most valuable Player for the 2014-2015 season; as well as his selection to the QJHL All-Star Team; being one of only a few players this season to reach the 100-point plateau and one of the only four players to have scored 50 goals or more.  Marc-Anthony Therrien led the entire CJHL in scoring with 133 points during the 2014-2015 season. Congratulations to the following honourable mentions for the CJHL MVP Award:  Cole Golka, Dryden Ice Dogs – SIJHL Robbie Graham, Dieppe Commandos – MHL Steve Harland, Powassan Voodoos – NOJHL Tristan Keck, Winkler Flyers – MJHL Travis Mayan, Melfort Mustangs, SJHL Each year, theCanadian Junior Hockey League recognizes the best Junior A talent from across all 10 Junior A leagues with a suite of national awards.  The CJHL awards include Most Valuable Player, Top Forward, Top Defenceman, Top Goaltender and Rookie of the Year.  Every Junior A league in the CJHL has submitted a nominee for each award and the winner will be chosen from among those 10 national nominees.  The selection panel consists of representatives from each of the CJHL's 10 Junior A leagues and the award winners will be chosen based on a weighted-voting system.  The announcements of the CJHL Award Winners will be made over the week of May 4th- 8th.     

The Insurance Brokers Association of Manitoba (IBAM) and the MJHL are pleased to announce the 2015 IBAM-MJHL Scholarship is awarded to goaltender Dasan Sydora of the Winkler Flyers. A cheque for $2,000 was presented to Dasan at the 2015 IBAM President’s Dinner, Thursday April 30, 2015. During the 2014-2015 hockey season, Dasan excelled on the ice, in the classroom and in the community to earn the award. He is currently considering which university to attend in the Fall of 2015 and he will be an outstanding addition to any CIS or NCAA program. Congratulations Dasan and all the best!    (left to right) Patrice Wren Dasan Sydora Scott Gall – Dasan and his teammates celebrate IBAM-MJHL Scholarship award

Portage Terriers’ stand-out blueliner Tanner Jago is one of five nominees for the CJHL Top Defenceman of the Year. Jago, 20, was a major force for a Terrier club which was ranked No. 1 in the CJHL all season. A native of Brandon, MB, Tanner led all defenceman in points with 53 (17-36).  He was a catalyst on the Terriers’ power-play unit, recording a league-high 19 assists while on the powerplay.   While offensively gifted, Tanner was also defensively responsible, earning him the MJHL’s Top Defenceman Award, in addition to a first-team all-star selection. Tanner is also an incredible leader, highly respected by both his teammates and opponents. While being an MJHL veteran (Winkler Flyers), he was just in his first season with the Terriers, who named him their team captain. A true honour for the first-year Terrier.   Other nominees are:   Andrew Farny, Salmon Arm Silverbacks, BCHL (53GP, 14G – 35A – 49PTS)* In 53 games played, Farny scored 14 goals, 35 assists and 49 points during the regular season.  Farny led all BCHL defencemen in scoring this season. Of his 14 goals, 10 of them came with the man advantage and one came shorthanded. Farny was voted the BCHL's Top Defenceman by the coaches. Andrew Farny is committed to Air Force.   Robert Michel, Ottawa Jr. Senators, CCHL (57GP, 16G – 37A – 53PTS)* Robert Michel spent little time adjusting to the CCHL as he was named to the Central Canada Cup roster in his first season of junior A hockey in 2013-2014. A year later, while compiling 53 points (16G 37A) in 57 games, he was unanimously voted the best defenceman in the CCHL. Robert's work ethic, skating ability and awareness make him an offensive threat every time he is on the ice.  Robert's performance on the ice helped him secure a scholarship to the University of Maine for the upcoming season. Above all, Robert is a great ambassador to the Ottawa Junior Senators and to the CCHL. He is a quality young man who deserves all the credit he has garnered thus far.   Linden Springer, Brooks Bandits, AJHL (52GP, 19G – 21A – 40PTS)* The recipient of the W.G. (Bill) Scott Memorial Trophy as AJHL Outstanding Defenceman is Linden Springer of the Brooks  Bandits.  Springer completed a career high this season averaging 0.8 points per game with 40 points in 2015.  He led all AJHL defencemen in scoring and was among the Top 40 in AJHL Scoring.  Springer was recognized as the Viterra AJHL Player of the Game four times throughout the regular season.  “Linden has the ability to impact a hockey game in many ways,” stated Bandits GM / Head Coach Ryan Papaioannou.  “Offensively he's able to create scoring in even strength and power play situations, while defensively he plays big minutes against other teams’ top lines and intangibly brings an element of physicality that every team needs.  Add his tremendous leadership qualities to the mix and he is one of the top defencemen in the AJHL.” The 20 year-old AJHL veteran is wrapping up his third and final season in the AJHL with the Brooks Bandits after being traded from the Lloydminster Bobcats in January 2015.   Eric Williams, Aurora Tigers, OJHL (52GP, 22G – 28A – 50PTS)* Williams becomes just the third defenceman in franchise history to win the league's Top Defenceman Award.  Williams led all OJHL rearguards with 22 goals on the season, which was the eighth best goal total by a defenceman in league history.  The Newmarket, Ontario native tallied 17 power play goals, not only leading defenceman in that category, but also finishing second among all OJHL skaters.  He added 11 power play assists and was the top blueliner with 28 power play points, also tied for second best among all players in the league.  The OJHL 1st Team All-Star finished second in scoring among rearguards with 50 points, as well as with three game-winning goals, in 52 regular season games played.   Williams' efforts throughout the 2014-15 season earned a second consecutive appearance at the Central Canada Cup All-Star Challenge, earning a spot on Team OJHL Coffey for the 2014 event in Toronto, where he would tie for the tournament lead in scoring among defencemen with four points in three games played.   Williams is slated to join the NCAA Division I, Northeastern University Huskies beginning with the 2015-16 Hockey East season.

Steinbach Pistons’ standout goaltender Nick Derry has been nominated for the CJHL Top Goaltender Award. Deery, 20, led all MJHL goaltenders with minutes played (2,798) and shutouts (five). He capped his season by capturing the MJHL top goaltender award, in addition to first-team all-star selection. Deery had a record of 30-15, 2.27 GAA and .922 save percentage. Twice he was named the MJHL’s Recycle Everywhere Player of the Week. The native of La Crosse, WI., has committed to the University of Minnesota Duluth. Each of the 10 leagues within the CJHL selected a nominee for the Goaltender of the Year honour.  Following the initial round of voting, five players qualified as finalists for the award and will now advance to the final stage of the selection process. The five finalists for the Top Goaltender honour represent the ACHL, BJHL, CCHL, MJHL and SJHL. The other nominees are: Hunter Miska, Penticton Vees, BCHL (46 GP, 34 W – 9 L – 3 T – 1.88 GAA – .931 S% – 5 SO) * 46 games played, 34 wins, .931 save percentage, 1.88 goals-against average, 5 shutouts. Miska led the BCHL in most goaltending categories including save percentage and goals-against average and tied for the lead in wins and shutouts. He was the CJHL 1st Star of the Month in October after posting a 9-0 mark and 1.08 goals-against average for the month. He took the BCHL Top Goaltender award and shared the Top Goalie Tandem award with Brendan Barry. Miska is committed to the University of Minnesota-Duluth.   Nic Reynard, Okotoks Oilers, AJHL (43 GP, 30 W – 3 L – 8 T – 2.19 GAA – .924 S% – 5 SO) * Okotoks Oilers goaltender Nic Reynard was the 2014-2015 AJHL Most Valuable Player and Top Goaltender.  The 20 year-old goaltender is wrapping up a record setting regular season for the Oilers and led all AJHL goaltenders in the areas of wins and save percentage.  Reynard set a new franchise record for most shutouts and set the single season franchise record for lowest goals against average as well.  The Victoria, BC goaltender joined the Oilers from the BCHL in September 2014 and kicked off the season by recording 13 games without a regulation loss (12-0-1).  Throughout the season, Nic amassed two 7+ game winning streaks.  Reynard was the recipient of the Viterra AJHL Player of the Game five times, and was also named as the Alberta Dodge Dealers AJHL Player of the Month in October 2014 when he posted a 8-0 record.  Reynard has committed to the University of Massachusetts Minutemen of the NCAA Division I Hockey East Conference.   Guillaume Therien, Carleton Place Canadians, CCHL (37 GP, 29 W – 3 L – 2 OTL – 1 SOL – 2.08 GAA – .924 S% – 4 SO) * Guillaume definitely built on the success of his 2013-2014 season, a season where he led the CCHL in wins, posted a 2.50 GAA, was named top goaltender at the Fred Page Cup and led the Canadians to the Championship Game of the RBC Cup.  This year Guillaume has continued his stellar play and has been rewarded by being named the CCHL’s Goalie of the Year.  Statistically, Guillaume has taken his game to a new level and the Canadians have benefited significantly.  He led all CCHL starters with a 2.08 GAA and a stellar save percentage of .924.  All this has translated into a 29 win season against only 3 losses with 4 shutouts.  Guillaume’s efforts and success this year earned him a CCHL Player of the Week, and was a two-time CCHL Player of the Month. He also received, and accepted, an offer to continue his education and hockey career at Niagara University starting in the 2015-2016 season.   Evan Weninger, Kindersley Klippers, SJHL (41 GP, 27 W – 10 L – 2 SOL – 2.06 GAA – .942 S% – 4 SO) * Evan Weninger (Saskatoon SK) carved out a decent chunk of playing time as a 17-year-old rookie and now he’s, arguably, one of the best 18-year-old Junior ‘A’ goalies in the country.  Weninger, who also earned a spot on the Canada West roster for the World Junior ‘A’ Challenge, paced the Klippers with a 27-10-and-2 record to go with a 2.06-GAA and an SJHL league leading .942-SPCT.  His GAA ranked second in the league and he was third in wins despite missing a month while playing for Canada West.

Submitted by Virden Oil Capitals   Clay Van Diest will suit up for the St. Norbert Green Knights (NCAA DIII) next season. The Virden Oil Capitals are pleased to announce that Clay Van Diest has committed to play for the St. Norbert Green Knights ice hockey program at the NCAA division three level this upcoming fall. Van Diest was acquired by the Oil Caps on November 12, 2014 from the Portage Terriers. In 38 games for the burgundy and black, the Helena, Montana native notched 15 points (2 G, 13 A) for a total of 27 points on the season (6 G, 21 A). “The trade to Virden caught me a bit off guard when it happened, but it turned into a blessing in disguise for my career,” said Van Diest of the trade to Virden. “I couldn’t have asked for a better team to end my Junior hockey with. The coaching staff and whole organization is run very professionally and I appreciate everything they have done for me during my time there.” The St. Norbert men’s hockey program has one of the greatest winning traditions in the history of NCAA division three hockey. In the past 11 seasons, the Green Knights have made it to the NCAA national championship game seven times, capturing the DIII crown four times in 2008, 2011, 2012, and 2014. “I’m very excited about furthering my hockey career to the NCAA level. I have been in touch with Coach Coghlin and their staff over the past couple of seasons and everything seemed to feel right about going there,” stated Van Diest in an interview from his car as he traveled from the St. Norbert campus in De Pere, WI to his hometown of Helena, MT. He continued, “Academically they have exactly what I want to take for a degree and everything seems just like a perfect fit.” The perfect fit academically that Van Diest speaks of will consist of a major in English while picking up a minor in Theology – All of this in preparation for a degree in Education. “We are very proud of Clay for reaching his goals of playing at the NCAA level. We spoke a lot about what he wanted to do after he was done here (in Virden), but ultimately he was very focused and mature about the whole process and we wish him all the best as he moves on to the St. Norbert program,” said Troy Leslie, the Head Coach and General Manager for the Oil Caps. Van Diest is the first Oil Cap this off-season to commit to an NCAA school for the fall. Van Diest is the first Oil Caps’ player to commit to the NCAA this off-season. He will join former Neepawa Natives forward, Stephen Phillips, in next year’s St. Norbert freshmen class while Steinbach’s David Robertson (Norwich), Winkler’s Jon Carlson (Fredonia), Winnipeg’s Jake Stilwell (Concordia, MN) and Mack Heisinger (Curry College) will also make the jump from the MJHL to the NCAA DIII level next season. The MJHL has also had NCAA Division I commitments this season from Steinbach’s Nick Deery (Minnesota-Duluth), Tyler Penner (Colgate University), Portage’s Tyler Jeanson (Colgate University), and a verbal commitment to the University of North Dakota from Winnipeg’s Jackson Keane. The St. Norbert Green Knights play in the Northern Collegiate Hockey Assocation and are coached by Tim Coghlin.  

CALGARY, Alberta (April 27th, 2015) – The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) announced today the finalists for the 2015 Rookie of the Year Award. This award is presented on a national level and represents one of seven league awards. The 2015 Rookie of the Year Award will be presented to the most outstanding rookie based on regular season individual performance.  A CJHL rookie is defined as a player with fewer than 20 games in any Junior A or Major Junior league in previous seasons, and must be 18 or younger as of December 31st of the current season.  Each of the 10 leagues within the CJHL selected a nominee for the Rookie of the Year honour. Following the initial round of voting, five players qualified as finalists for the award and will now advance to the final stage of the selection process.  The finalists for the 2015 CJHL Rookie of the Year include: Brandon Biro, Spruce Grove Saints, AJHL (57GP, 21G – 33A – 54PTS)   Brandon Biro was the 2014-2015 AJHL Rookie of the Year. The 16 year-old Spruce Grove Saints forward broke into the AJHL scoring an average of .95 points per game and ranked in the Top 10 in the AJHL Scoring Race with 54 points.  The Sherwood Park, Alberta native led all AJHL rookies and finished second in team scoring.  Brandon Biro recorded multiple 3 point games throughout his first AJHL regular season, recorded 2 game winning goals, and was selected as the Viterra AJHL Player of the Game six times for his contributions.   Dante Fabbro, Penticton Vees, BCHL (44GP, 4G – 29A – 33PTS) Dante Fabbro had an amazing year with the Penticton Vees of the BCHL and in 44 games played,he recorded 4 goals, 29 assists, and 33 points during the Regular Season. The16-year-old defenceman was selected to play for Team Canada Red at the WorldU17 Hockey Challenge in November and was selected to Team Canada West for the2014 World Junior A Challenge in December.  Steve Harland, Powassan Voodoos, NOJHL (52GP, 42G – 53A – 95PTS) Steve Harland was a key contributor to the Voodoos offensive numbers this past year. Harland played a part in 44% of the 213 goals Powassan scored during the course of the regular season with either a tally or assist and was also on the ice for countless others. The 18-year-old from Scarborough, Ont., paced all skaters in the NOJHL in both assists and points with 95 and 53 respectively. He also finished third in goals with 42 and had an impressive 31-game point streak during the course of the season. Was also named a NOJHL first team all-star at right wing.   Karl Malette, Saint-Jérôme Panthères, QJHL (52GP, 26G – 40A – 66PTS) Rookie center Karl Malette led all QJHL rookies in scoring this season with 26 goals, 40 assists and 66 points in 52 games. He finished 3rd on his team in scoring. Karl was also selected on the QJHL rookie All-Star Team for 2014-2015. Cameron Morrison, Aurora Tigers, OJHL (57GP, 16G – 23A – 39PTS)   A highly recruited minor midget prospect in 2013-14, the 16-year old chose the OJHL route and NCAA option in joining his hometown Aurora Tigers for his rookie junior season.  Morrison did not disappoint and the big, strong winger used his 6'3" frame to dominate the opposition at times, despite his young age, and became the youngest player (16 years, 7 months) to capture the Rookie-of-the-Year Award since Josh Shalla (16 years, 6 months) of the Bowmanville Eagles won East Division honours in 2007-08.  Despite missing time due to appendicitis in early November, his 31 goals not only led the Tigers, but was the sixth best total among all OJHL players, while his 53 points placed him fourth in scoring on the club during the regular season. Morrison notched eight power play goals, third best on Aurora, as well as seven game-winning goals, which tied for second best total in the OJHL. Throughout the year, Morrison would post 13 multi-point games. Following the season, Morrison was also named an OJHL 1st Team All-Prospect and he is committed to join the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish beginning with the 2016-17 Hockey East season.  Congratulations to all ten CJHL Rookie of the Year Award nominees, which included the following CJHL rookies who are also winners of their respective league awards:    Bradley Belisle, Thunder Bay North Stars – SIJHL Mike Eskra, Weyburn Redwings – SJHL Curtis Hastings, County Aces – MHL Owen Guy, Kemptville 73’s – CCHL James Shearer, Steinbach Pistons – MJHL     The Top 5 finalists for all CJHL Awards will be announced over the coming week.  The recipientof the 2015 CJHL Rookie of the Year and all CJHL League Awards will be announced during the week of May 4th-8th.  The Canadian Junior Hockey League will recognize the best Junior A talent from across all 10 Junior A leagues with their national awards.  The CJHL awards will include Most Valuable Player, Top Forward, Top Defenseman, Top Goaltender and Top Rookie as well as Coach of the Year and Top NHL Prospect.  Each Junior A league in the CJHL submits a nominee for each award and the winner will be chosen from among those 10 national finalists.  The selection panel will consist of representatives from each of the CJHL's 10 Junior A leagues and the award winners will be chosen based on a weighted-voting system.             

Submitted by Neepawa Natives   Congratulations to last year’s 20 year old defenseman Nick Sandy. Nick is the next graduating player to move on to the next level this season. All three of the Neepawa Natives graduating players have committed to schools for 2015-16. Nick has recently committed to Iowa State University (ISU) for the 2015-2016 season. The Iowa State University Cyclones have been an American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) powerhouse since its inception. The team has many ACHA Frozen Four appearances and was the ACHA Nation Championship in 1992. The ISU Cyclones play in the Central States Collegiate Hockey League. The Central States Collegiate Hockey League is Division I ACHA hockey-college athletic conference and is one of the top ranked ACHA leagues. Sandy played two seasons in Neepawa, playing an important role in both the community and with the hockey club. Nick enjoyed his experience with the Natives stating, "I would like to thank all my teammates and the entire Natives organization. I would also like to thank my billets, John and Gerry Nelson as well as Glen and Cindy Tibbett for their hospitality and kindness. My two years as a Native gave me the opportunity to develop and achieve my goal of playing college hockey”. Nick continued to share his enthusiasm for the Cyclones next season, “I chose Iowa State University because it was the best fit for both my education and hockey career. I am excited to continue to play hockey and have the experience of playing in a completely new environment." As one of three graduating players last year, Nick accumulated 12 assists in 60 games and led the Natives’ defense in points this season. The Calgary, Alberta native played an important role with our club last season and we would like to wish Nick future success with the Cyclones.

The MJHL champion Portage Terriers evened their record at the Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup with a 6-3 win over Melfort Mustangs (SJHL). Terriers are now 1-1 in the round-robin tournament being held in Fort McMurray, AB. The game summary can be seen HERE.

Portage Terriers continue their post season run today at the Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup.  The MJHL champions open the tournament against host Fort McMurray Oil Barons. Click here to follow along with tonight's game. 

April 24, 2015   BCHL Representative   Penticton Vees   Their Story: The Penticton Vees (Like every other team except Fort McMurray) were the top team in their league during the regular season. They finished the BCHL campaign with a record of 44-9-3-2. In the playoffs they were just as strong, going 15-4-3. Things got a little interesting for the 2012 RBC Cup Champions in the BCHL Final, they were down 2-0 on the road but won four straight to take the title.   Playoffs: Round 1 (Best of 7): Beat West Kelowna in five. Round 2 (Best of 7): Beat Vernon in seven. Round 3 (Round Robin): Finished first with record of 3-1. BCHL Final (Best of 7): Beat Nanaimo in six.   Top Playoff Scorer: Demico Hannoun – 8G, 13A = 21PTS Neat: Hannoun has been to two RBC Cups (Summerside in 2013 with Surrey & Vernon in 2014 with Vernon) and one Western Canada Cup (Nanaimo in 2013 with Surrey). In all three of those tournaments the 19 year old has 13 points (6G, 7A).   Top Playoff Goalie: Hunter Miska – 15-6 / 2.24 GAA / .925 SV% / 2 SO Neat: Miska had the top Goals Against Average (1.88) and Save Percentage (.931) in the BCHL this season. He played in 46 contests (34-9-3).     AJHL Representative   Spruce Grove Saints   Their Story: For the second straight season the Spruce Grove Saints head into the Western Canada Cup, but this time they’ll be looking for a better result. After getting off to a slow start last year the Saints ended up losing to the Dauphin Kings in the RBC Cup Berth Game. This year they’re back with experience and playing just outside their own backyard. In the regular season the Saints were the top team in Alberta at 48-7-5. In the playoffs they went 12-6-0. Spruce Grove never really got pushed to the brink in the post season; all of their series went six games.   Playoffs: Round 1: BYE Round 2 (Best of 7): Beat Sherwood Park in six. Round 3 (Best of 7): Beat Bonnyville in six. AJHL Final (Best of 7): Beat Brooks in six.   Top Playoff Scorer: Parker Mackay – 10G, 12A = 22PTS Neat: Mackay is one of a number of players on the Saints that’s returning to the Western Canada Cup for a second straight year. Last year in Dauphin he had three goals.   Top Playoff Goalie: Matthew Murray – 8-4 / 2.05 GAA / .917 SV% Neat: At the ripe age of 17 Matthew Murray went 14-1-3 in the AJHL’s regular season. That included an eight game winning streak.     SJHL Representative   Melfort Mustangs   Their Story: It was the Melfort Mustangs most successful season in almost 20 years, but despite that you could consider the club an underdog at this year’s edition of the Western Canada Cup. In the regular season the Mustangs finished at 39-8-9, first overall. They suffered just two losses in the playoffs, both in overtime. Their record was 12-0-2. They swept the Notre Dame Hounds in the SJHL Championship Series. Like the Spruce Grove Saints, Melfort was never REALLY challenged in the playoffs. Their longest series went five games.   Playoffs: Round 1 (Best of 7): Beat Weyburn in five. Round 2 (Best of 7): Beat Nipawin in five. SJHL Final (Best of 7): Beat Notre Dame in four. Neat: Mustangs outscored their opponents 67-30 in the playoffs.   Top Playoff Scorer: Adam Fauchoux – 14G, 9A = 23PTS Tristan Frei – 9G, 14A = 23PTS   Top Playoff Goalie: Richard Palmer – 14-2 / 2.07 GAA / .922 SV% / 2 SO Neat: Palmer played the second most minutes in the SJHL playoffs at 869.     MJHL Representative   Portage Terriers   Their Story: The RBC Cup host Portage Terriers made it look easy during the MJHL regular season and playoffs. In total they finished with a franchise record of 53-3-4 on the season. They followed that effort up by going 12-0-0 in the playoffs. Portage really has nothing to lose at the Western Canada Cup, but we all know teams that host events prefer to go in the front door, rather than the back.   Playoffs: Round 1 (Best of 7): Beat Waywayseecappo in four. Round 2 (Best of 7): Beat Virden in four. MJHL Final (Best of 7): Beat Steinbach in four. Neat: The Portage Terriers went to overtime just once in the MJHL playoffs; it was a 4-3 victory over the Virden Oil Capitals. In the 12 playoff games the Terriers outscored their opponents 62-14, they enter the WCC on a 15 game winning streak.   Top Playoff Scorer: Jordyn Boyd – 6G, 11A = 17PTS Top Playoff Goalie: Justin Laforest – 11-0 / 1.24 GAA / .946 SV% / 4 SO Neat: Laforest was with the CCHL’s Carleton Place Canadians last season. The club went to the Fred Page and RBC Cups, but he did not play in any games as he was the back up to Guillaume Therien.     HOST Team   Fort McMurray Oil Barons   Their Story: It was a disappointing regular season and playoffs for the AJHL’s Fort McMurray Oil Barons. After finishing in the middle of the pack in the North Division during the campaign (31-23-6 = 4th), the MOB went on to fall in the first round of the playoffs. All can be forgotten when it comes to their season and playoffs if they can advance to the RBC Cup. It won’t be an easy start though; their first game is against Portage.   Playoffs: Round 1 (Best of 5): Lost to Sherwood Park in four.   Top Playoff Scorer: Jetlan Houcher – 2G, 2A = 4PTS Trent Lofthouse – 1G, 3A = 4PTS   Top Regular Season Scorer: Jetlan Houcher – 39G, 32A = 71PTS (3rd in AJHL) Top Playoff Goalie: Zach Fortin – 1-3 / 3.34 GAA / .895 SV% / 1 SO   Top Regular Season Goalie: Zach Fortin – 20-16-4 / 2.72 GAA / .924 SV% / 4 SO     Western Canada Cup Schedule (All times CDT)   Saturday April 25 Penticton vs. Spruce Grove – 3:30pm Portage vs. Fort McMurray – 8:30pm   Sunday April 26 Melfort vs. Portage – 3:30pm Fort McMurray vs. Penticton – 8:30pm   Monday April 27 Spruce Grove vs. Melfort – 8:30pm   Tuesday April 28 Penticton vs. Portage – 3:30pm Spruce Grove vs. Fort McMurray – 8:30pm   Wednesday April 29 Melfort vs. Penticton – 8:30pm   Thursday April 30 Portage vs. Spruce Grove – 3:30pm Fort McMurray vs. Melfort – 8:30pm   Saturday May 2 4th vs. 3rd – 3:30pm 2nd vs. 1st – 8:30pm (Winner gets first RBC berth)   Sunday May 3 Winner of 3/4 vs. loser of 1/2 – 5pm (Winner gets second RBC berth)   NOTE: If Portage wins either of the RBC Cup qualifying games, the losing team in that contest gets a berth to the national championship.  

The MJHL was well represented on the South East Prairie Thunder, who recently captured the 2015 Allan Cup, awarded to the top senior men’s hockey team in Canada. The Prairie Thunder, who are based out of Steinbach, defeated Bentley Generals (Alberta) 2-0 in the final held in Newfoundland. Headling the list of MJHL alumni were Blair MacAuley (Saints), Nick Cowan (Swan Valley), Del Cowan (Neepawa), Anders Strome (Blues) Rob Smith (Pistons assistant coach/Saint alumni), Dale Butland (Blues), Dustin DeGagne (Blues), Jamie Dowhayko (Saints) and Dustin Hughes (Steelers). The Prairie Thunder will be hosting the 2016 Allan Cup tournament.  

Submitted by Neepawa Natives   The Neepawa Natives would like to congratulate another 20-year-old graduating player on his recent commitment. Goaltender, Alex Henry has recently committed to University of Central Oklahoma. The University of Central Oklahoma, often referred to as UCO, is a co-educational public university located in Edmond, Oklahoma. The Central Oklahoma Bronchos had a 29-5-1 record last season before winning the ACHA National Championship last month. The Central Oklahoma Bronchos are among the top programs in the ACHA and have had considerable success in recent years. Their latest success has culminated in 2015, when the hockey club captured the ACHA National Championship with a win over Stony Brook by a score of 4-0. Henry, a native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, played in 48 games this season and was amongst the league leaders in both games played and minutes played. Henry was an anchor for the club after being acquired from the OCN Blizzard in the offseason.  Alex had many kind things to say about the Natives organization stating that, “I would like to thank all my teammates throughout my junior career. I would also like to thank the coaching staff and everyone that puts in endless hours within the Neepawa Natives organization. I chose UCO so I can experience hockey in a different environment and play with an exceptional organization. I am very excited to join the Bronchos next season.”  Alex’s leadership and athletic skill was a credit to his character and his commitment to the game. The Natives organization would like to congratulate Alex on his recent commitment and wish him and the Bronchos the best next season.

Submitted by Winkler Flyers Graduating Flyers Captain Patrice Wren has committed to the Nipissing University Lakers (CIS) for the 2015-2016 season. The Beachburg, Ontario native played just one season in Winkler and had a career year with 46 points in 60 regular season games. After being picked up in a trade with the Pembroke Lumber Kings (CCHL) before the start of the 2014-2015 season, Wren helped guide the Flyers to their best regular season record in recent memory. Wren played in all 60 regular season games last season finishing with a career high 46 points (14 goals – 32 assists). He also added three points in three post season games. “Patrice was a great captain for us this season” stated Flyers Head Coach and General Manager Ken Pearson. “He brought a winning attitude and work ethic and that really rubbed off on some of our younger guys. And that is exactly what you want in a captain.” Concluded Pearson. The Nipissing University Lakers play in the CIS (Canadian Interuniversity Sport) which is the top ranked collegiate hockey league in Canada. The Flyers would like to congratulate Patrice on his decision to continue his education and hockey career with the Lakers and wish him all the best in the future.

A number of MJHL alumni are being honoured by the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame. Inducted into the Builders’ category are former Selkirk Steelers coach Al Hares, Andy Murray, John Paddock and the late Hockey Winnipeg director Dianne Woods. Many MJHL fans may not remember, but Andy Murray was once a coach of the then-Brandon Travellers who competed in the MJHL. Murray went on to coach in the NHL, while Paddock, best known as the former GM/head coach of the Winnipeg Jets, suited up for the Travellers. Dianne Woods was the long-time governor of the St. James Canadians, who won back-to-back championships in the ‘90s. Hares, who still resides in Selkirk, won several MJHL championships and ANAVET Cups. “This is a tremendous honour for the inductees,” MJHL Commissioner Kim Davis said. “The MJHL is extremely proud of their accomplishments and their contributions to our league.” The inductees will be officially welcomed to The Hall this coming fall.

Portage Terriers are officially No. 1 in the MJHL. The Terriers capped their historic season Tuesday night in Steinbach, winning the Turnbull Trophy with a nail-biting 4-3 win over Steinbach Pistons. Terriers’ ran the table in the playoffs going 12-0, winning the Turnbull Trophy in four straight. “It’s always a good thing to be the last team standing at the end,” Terriers’ Head Coach Blake Spiller told CFRY-Radio. “I’m really proud of my team. We have a great group of guys on this team. To go undefeated in the playoffs is great. I’m really happy for the guys on our team. “The last few minutes were a bit nerve wracking for everyone involved. But we did what we had to do to win; just like all season. Good for our guys.” Terriers’ netminder Justin Laforest was thrilled with the championship. Not to mention, going 12-0 in the playoffs. “This is amazing,” said Laforest. “No greater feeling in the world than right now. Our team is just fantastic. We came out strong in the game, but we knew Steinbach was going to battle. But, we weren’t going to lose this one.” Terriers’ forward Dane Schioler was named the playoff MVP. The Winnipeg native was thrilled as he carried the Turnbull Trophy around the ice with his teammates. “This is very special,” said Schioler, 18. “I owe this to my teammates. We were a bit nervous (coming into the game)…but we knew what we had to do. It was a tough game.” The Terriers, who are hosting the RBC Cup next month, have now won six MJHL championships in 11 seasons: 2005, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2015. Playing in front of 1,200 thrilled fans at the TG Smith Centre, Terriers held period leads of 2-0 and 3-1. Pistons rallied in the third, pulling to within one goal – 4-3 – but the Terriers successfully snuffed the comeback. Terriers received goals from the Bowles brothers, Brad and Shawn, Tyler Jeanson and Carson Perreaux. Pistons received goals from Denis Bosc, Tyler Penner and Dustin Loeppky. “Our team came out hard,” said Shawn Bowles. “We all wanted to end it tonight. We just stuck together. We all know our roles and we come out every night and battle hard. It’s awesome to win this championship. A real highlight in my career.” Terriers’ captain Tanner Jago summed up the championship: “This championship is unbelievable. We knew it was going to be a grind in the playoffs, but hats off to the fellas. This rink is really tough to play in. Credit to the Pistons.” EXTRA POINTS: Terriers now advance to the Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup (April 25 to May 3.) Terriers will open the round-robin tournament April 25 against host Fort McMurray Oil Barons…Several hundred Portage fans made the trip to Steinbach…Terriers were forced to overtime only once – against Virden Oil Capitals − in the playoffs.  

By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent   His junior career wrapped up more than a month ago, and now all the hard work Brian MacKenzie put into his three years with the Selkirk Steelers is being recognized both provincially and nationally. MacKenzie, a 20-year-old forward from Winnipeg, is this year’s MJHL winner for the RBC Junior A Scholarship. The honour not only earns him a $1,000 scholarship, it also qualifies him for a $5,000 scholarship. The winner of that award will be announced at the upcoming RBC Cup in Portage la Prairie. He learned about the award after receiving a call from MJHL Commissioner Kim Davis on Monday. “I was at work and Kim Davis called me at work – that was a nice surprise, for sure,” he said. MacKenzie, a five-foot-nine, 170 pound forward with the Steelers, said the scholarship will help him reach his post-secondary school goals. “I’m currently a student at the U of M – I’ve been taking classes there, (though) it’s been a small class load with my having to drive to Selkirk from St. Vital,” he said. “I’m in the Argi-Business program, working away at it. And I plan on taking a more intense workload in the fall with my time freed up. “This (scholarship) is huge – it’s such an honour, and I was lucky enough to win the one from my team as well,” added MacKenzie. “This will go a long way in helping me to pay for costs, books, and all the supplied needed.” He added potentially winning the national scholarship would be not only a huge honour, but would help him complete his degree as well. On the ice, MacKenzie was a veteran presence on a young Steelers team this season, finishing his 20-year-old season with 15 goals and 17 assists in 57 games. He played his entire junior career with the Steelers, and he spoke about the long days of a student/part-time employee/junior hockey player, and how that hard work paid off for him. “I was 17 and I started playing while I was in high school, and after that I started working part-time,” he said. “After high school I’d go to (university), leave go to work, and then leave to go to practice or play a game. “I definitely missed out on some things, but in the end I’m glad I chose the path I did and started school when I did.” MacKenzie said he’s had some feelers from Division III schools from the United States, but he said that’s not the route he’s opting to take. He would still like to play some competitive hockey, and he’s still looking at a few options to keep playing the game he loves while he continues his education.

Brad Bowles of the Portage Terriers has been named the Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week. Bowles, 19, registered five points (2-3) in three games for the Terriers, who are playing Steinbach Pistons in the MJHL final. Bowles, a native of Elkhorn, has been one of many Terriers who have excelled during the post season. The runners up are  Terriers’ Shawn Bowles (Brad’s twin brother) and 19 year old forward Denis Bosc of the Steinbach Pistons.

Shane Luke is used to winning, having been a member of the highly successfully Dauphin King organization. But the King added another title to his collection: NCAA men’s hockey champion. Over the weekend Providence College won its first national championship, with a 4-3 win over Boston University. A senior, Luke nicely capped off his college hockey career. For read more on the Providence win, click here: http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/121811/2015-frozen-four-providence-college-rides-two-late-goals-to-first-national-championship/  

Portage Terriers pulled a 3-0 lead over Steinbach Pistons in their best of 7 Turnbull Trophy final.  Terriers won game three 4 to 2 Sunday night in Portage.  To view the complete scoring summary, please click here.

Terriers are now up 2-0 in the Turnbull Trophy final – click here to view scoring summary

Submitted by:Winkler Flyers   The Winkler Flyers are pleased to announce a two year contract extension for Head Coach and General Manager Ken Pearson. This past season, Pearson guided the Flyers to their best regular season record since 2010-2011 finishing in fourth place in the MJHL standings with a record of (31-17-12). “We are very happy to have Ken come back for another two years.” Said Flyers President Dan Giesbrecht. “The way our club has continued to improve year after year is a testament to the work that Ken and his staff have been able to get done” added Giesbrecht. “Ken has done a great job in rebuilding our prospect list with a focus on local players. And the fact that the results are starting to come, we felt it was time to make sure that Ken is around for a few more years” concluded Giesbrecht. In nine total seasons as Head Coach of the Flyers, Pearson has an overall record of (283-182-54). His 283 regular season wins, ranks first among all Flyers’ Head Coaches in franchise history. After making his Head Coaching debut with Winkler in the 1998-99 season, Pearson has been the bench boss for 966 regular season games with Winkler, Winnipeg Blues (MJHL), Brooks Bandits (AJHL) and the Battlefords North Stars (SJHL) winning two championships over that span. Pearson has coached a total of 710 regular season games in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and his 401 wins puts him third on the all-time MJHL coaching wins list behind only Don MacGillivray and Doug Stokes. “I’m glad to be able to remain behind the bench for the next couple years and thank the organization for letting me do so.” Said Pearson. “I feel we are positioned well to have some success and I really hope we can bring a championship back to Winkler in the very near future.”  

Portage Terriers won game 1 of the Turnbull Trophy final, defeating Steinbach Pistons 7 to 1.  Click here to view the complete scoring summary. 

Winnipeg Blues’ forward Jackson Keane is one of 11 CJHL players ranked in the 2015 Central Scouting final rankings. Keane, who hails from Winnipeg, is projected to be a sixth-round selection in this June’s NHL Entry Draft. Keane had an outstanding sophomore season, collecting 61 points (20-41) in 50 games. He was also a member of Canada West at the World Junior A Challenge, in addition to playing for Team West at the CJHL Prospects Game. The 18-year-old forward has committed to the University of North Dakota. Meanwhile, Marcus Vela of the Langley Rivermen (BCHL) is the recipient of the CJHL’s Top NHL Prospect Award as the highest ranked CJHL player at 131st on the North American Skaters list. The 6’ 2” forward has committed to the University of New Hampshire for the 2015 – 2016 season. The Final Rankings includes five players from the BCHL, three players from the AJHL and a player from each the OJHL and MJHL. The following is a list of CJHL players on the 2015 NHL Final Draft Rankings.    R FR First Name Last Name Team League 5 131 MARCUS   VELA LANGLEY BCHL 6 152 JACKSON   KEANE WINNIPEG BLUES MJHL 7 188 CARMINE   BUONO POWELL RIVER BCHL 7 190 WILLIAM   REILLY NORTH YORK OJHL 7 192 RHETT   GARDNER OKOTOKS AJHL 7 195 THOMAS   ALDWORTH VERNON BCHL 7 199 LIAM   FINLAY VERNON BCHL 7 200   ADAM BERG CALGARY MUSTANGS AJHL 7 203 JAMES   VERMEULEN WHITECOURT AJHL 7 209 VINCENT   DESHARNAIS CHILLIWACK BCHL  

One only has to look at the upcoming NCAA ‘Frozen Four’ series to see the success of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. A total of five MJHL alumni will be participating in college hockey’s prestigious, sudden-death series to be played April 9-11 in Boston. The MJHL players are:   Shane Luke              Providence College (Dauphin Kings) Joel Messner            University of Nebraska – Omaha  (Selkirk Steelers) Brendan O’Donnell    University of North Dakota (Winnipeg Blues) Stephane Pattyn       University of North Dakota (Portage Terriers) Bryn Chyzyk             University of North Dakota (Dauphin Kings)   “This is extremely exciting and positive for our league and fans,” says MJHL Commissioner Kim Davis. “Our league continues to make positive strides and improvements. The caliber of our player is excellent, and reflected in the young men who will be playing in the Frozen Four.” These are heady days for the MJHL. In addition to the excitement of MJHLers playing in the Frozen Four, the battle for the Turnbull Trophy begins April 8 (Wednesday) in Portage with the Terriers taking on Steinbach Pistons. (The complete best-of-seven schedule can be found on the MJHL website.) The Terriers, who will be hosting the RBC Cup next month, were ranked No. 1 in the CJHL for the most part of the past season. They also set a new MJHL record for fewest losses in regulation time. Meanwhile, the Pistons are returning to the championship final ─ winning the league two seasons ago. “There’s lots of excitement and interest for our fans,” says Davis. “It was an excellent, highly-competitive season. Our league final is the culmination of a highly successful season.”

Global TV’s Mitch Rosset travelled out to Portage recently and visited a billet family. The story focused on the importance of billet families and how they make a difference in an MJHL player’s life. To view this excellent story click here: http://globalnews.ca/news/1923360/strangers-open-up-homes-hearts-to-young-hockey-players/

Steinbach Pistons’ standout goaltender Nick Deery has been named the Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week, ending April 5. Deery, 20, was unbeatable in the net, posting a pair of shutout victories in leading the Pistons past Winnipeg Blues. Pistons now advance to the MJHL final against Portage Terriers ─ a best-of-seven series which opens Wednesday in Portage. Deery, who hails from La Crosse, Wis., is hoping to earn the Pistons their second Turnbull Trophy in the last three years. After graduating the Pistons, Deery has committed to University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs. The runners up are 20 year old forward Dustin Loeppky of the Steinbach Pistons and 19 year old forward Brad Bowles of the Portage Terriers.

Submitted by:Selkirk Steelers   Former Selkirk Steeler (2011-2014) and current University of Nebraska Omaha Defensemen Joel Messner is headed to the NCAA Frozen Four. As a freshmen and for the first time in school history, Messner's UNO Mavericks will take on the Providence College Friars on April 09, 2015 at the TD Garden in Boston Massachusetts. The winner of this game will face the winner of UND and Boston University on April 11th for the National Championship. Messner capped off a stellar MJHL career in 2014 when he was named a First Team All-Star and took home Top MJHL Defenseman Honours. Messner also captained the Steelers during the 2013-2014 campaign as a 19-year-old that saw the Steelers finish an incredible regular season as the #2 ranked team in the nation. Messner takes time out of his busy schedule at UNO to speak with us one-on-one as he prepares for the biggest journey of his hockey career thus far. Q: How has your first year been in the NCAA? A: My first year in the NCAA has been unforgettable, making the Frozen Four in my first year and for the first time in school history. Also playing in the TD Garden in front of 19,000 fans is going to be an amazing experience. When you are having a successful season it makes everything a lot easier, including school. Having 11 freshmen coming into the season I wasn’t really sure how our season was going to go but with the great leadership we have along with the great group of guys, it has been a great season.  Q:How do you compare the NCAA to the MJHL? A:The biggest difference between the NCAA and the MJHL is just like everyone says, bigger, faster and stronger. The atmosphere in college hockey is also very different. Having bands and a student section makes for great atmosphere. There is also a couple rules that are different compared to the MJHL. We only play 36 regular season games compared to 60 in the MJHL. Being able to fly to games was also something that was very different for me and took time getting used too. Q: What has campus life been like for you at UNO? A: Living on campus has been great. I am fortunate that here at UNO we have some really nice dorms. The dorms are like little apartments. I live with three other teammates and we each have our own room which is very nice. The rest of the freshmen also live in the same building, so we are pretty much living with 11 of our best friends in one building. It's nice living on campus and being so close to everything. Walking to class or taking the shuttle, I am really enjoying my time here at UNO. Q: How do you find balancing hockey and academics? A: Being a student athlete is all about time management. You really need to take advantage of the free time because you don't get much. With the  time I always try and get the most homework done. I always try to get it done before the weekend because on the weekends I only want to be thinking about the games. The teachers are usually also very helpful with homework if we are out on the road and have homework due. As long as you talk to them before you leave there is usually never a problem.  Q: What advice would you give a young player in the MJHL who wanted to pursue the NCAA? A:Make a resume at a young age and send it to college coaches. Talk to your current Head Coach to see if there is anything they can do for you. It's not only the on ice things either, clean up your social media, you have to show that you work hard and you are a professional. Work hard in school and get good grades. It makes a very big difference. It was one of the first things that scouts would ask me when I talked to them. Grades can bring you a long way. Hard work pays off, on and off the ice.

CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW April 8th Steinbach Pistons @ Portage Terriers 7:30 pm April 10th Portage Terriers @ Steinbach Pistons 7:30 pm April 12th Steinbach Pistons @ Portage Terriers 6:30 pm April 14th Portage Terriers @ Steinbach Pistons 7:30 pm April 16th Steinbach Pistons @ Portage Terriers 7:30 pm (if necess) April 18th Portage Terriers @ Steinbach Pistons 7:30 pm (if necess) April 20th Steinbach Pistons @ Portage Terriers 7:30 pm (if necess)   (1)   PORTAGE TERRIES vs. (2) STEINBACH PISTONS      On paper it’s the series that was drawn up from day one of the MJHL Playoffs. The Portage Terriers and Steinbach Pistons were the top two teams in the league during the regular season, and that trend continued in the post season. This should be a very exciting and intense series. During the campaign Portage won four of the six meetings between the two teams, outscoring Steinbach 17-7 in the process. However, if you take away the first meeting of the season (7-1 Portage win) the two teams were only separated by three goals (10-7). This best-of-seven MJHL Final looks like it will be a tight checking and low scoring one. Aside from that first meeting, the two teams combined for no more than five goals per game during the regular season. The winner of the MJHL advances to the Western Canada Cup which is being held in Fort McMurray, Alberta this year (April 25th to May 3rd). PLAYOFF STATS   SPECIAL TEAMS (Between the two clubs) Power Play: Terriers – 24.24% (1) / Pistons – 17.24% (2) Penalty Kill: Terriers – 94.87% (2) / Pistons – 100% (1) TOP PLAYOFF SCORERS Terriers: Jordan Boyd (6G & 7A for 13PTS in 8GP (1st in MJHL)) Pistons: Dustin Loeppky (6G & 3A for 9PTS (T6th in MJHL)) GOALIES Terriers: Justin Laforest 7-0, 0.82 GAA, .964 SV% & 4 SO / Zac Robidoux 1-0, 0.00, 1.000 SV% & 1 SO Pistons: Nick Deery 8-1, 1.24 GAA, .959 SV% & 3 SO

Jordyn Boyd of the Portage Terriers has been named the RBC Player of the Month for March. The 20-year-old veteran forward took his offensive game to another level, reflected in 13 points (6-7) in eight playoff games for the Terriers, who have now advanced to the MJHL championship. Boyd, who hails from Winnipeg, has been a key contributor all season for the Terriers, who will also host the RBC Cup final next month. The runners up are 20 year old defenseman Jordan Greig of the Virden Oil Capitals and 19 year old forward Kamerin Nault of the Winnipeg Blues.    Sher-Wood Hockey Defenseman of the Month Jordan Greig, 20, of the Virden Oil Capitals has been recognized for this award in March. A prototypical stay-at-home defenceman, Greig’s defensive play did not go unnoticed. The native of Souris also contributed offensively with 10 points in as many games. The runners up are 20 year old Tanner Jago of the Portage Terriers and 20 year old Landon Cross of the Steinbach Pistons.   MGEU Goaltender of the Month You could call him Mr. Perfect ─ Justin Laforest of the Portage Terriers. The 19-year-old from Carlton Place, Ont., went a perfect 7-0 last month, highlighted by four shutout performances. His GAA was an unbelievable 0.82, while his save percentage was .964. The runners up are 20 year old Nick Deery of the Steinbach Pistons and 19 year old Scott Parson of the Winnipeg Blues.   IBAM Rookie of the Month Colton Veloso of the Steinbach Pistons has more than held his own during the post-season action. The 17-year-old rookie from Winnipeg recorded five points (2-3) in seven games. The runners up are 18 year old forward Maverick Rafter of the Winnipeg Blues and 18 year old defenseman Zack Whitecloud of the Virden Oil Capitals.

By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent It’s been six years since Portage Terriers’ star forward Eric DeLong was named the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) Player of the Year. Tristan Keck is hoping to snap the streak. The Winkler Flyers’ classy veteran is still pinching himself after recently being named the MJHL’s nominee for the Player of the Year award. “It’s pretty big – I honestly didn’t expect it,” said Keck, who hails from Morris. “There are a lot of great guys in the league, and to be nominated from that group is a pretty big honour.” Keck’s Flyers just lost a tough six-game series to the Virden Oil Capitals in the quarter-finals of the MJHL playoffs. And while he would rather still be playing, Keck admits being recognized for this award helps take away some of the sting of being eliminated. “It’s great to get personal success but you just want to win a championship,” he said. “Winning this helps a little bit, but ultimately you want to win that championship more than anything.” Keck did pretty much all in his power to help the Flyers this season. His 43 goals were tops in the league, helping him to be named the league’s most outstanding player. Some of his other major awards from his three years of junior include being named a first-team all star this year, twice being named the team MVP in Winkler, and being named the CJHL and the MJHL rookie of the year. MJHL Commissioner Kim Davis had high praise for the talented forward, who still has one year of junior eligibility remaining. “Tristan is a terrific ambassador for the MJHL,” said Davis. “He’s an outstanding nominee.” Meanwhile, Keck’s goal is to play college hockey.  “I want to play somewhere in the United States,” said Keck. “I’d like to take Architecture.” Keck added his family was excited when they learned of this latest honour.  “It’s rewarding for them to see all that hard work pay off,” he said. Previous nominees for this award include Braeden Ostepchuk of the Selkirk Steelers, Guillaume Naud of the Dauphin Kings, and Jayson Argue of the Swan Valley Stampeders, among others. Previous winners of this national award include a pair of former Portage Terriers – Eric Delong and Junior Lessard. The 2015 CJHL Player of the Year Award will be presented during the festivities at this year’s RBC Cup, which takes place in Portage la Prairie May 9-17.

Former Winnipeg Saint defenceman Travis Hamonic hasn’t forgotten his roots. Now a member of the New York Islanders, Hamonic is determined to make a difference with young people, who reach out to him. Recently, Hamonic was instrumental in making a difference for a 7-year-old boy and his family from PEI who are missing their father and husband, who was murdered last year. Hamonic, who hails from St. Malo, lost his father when he was 10 years old. It’s a memory he’ll never forget, and uses as a motivator in helping others. The story aired on CBC TV. Here’s the link: http://www.cbc.ca/player/News/ID/2661585850/

Former Dauphin King captain Shane Luke is getting frozen: as in playing in the Frozen Four. Luke, 24, is a member of the Providence Friars, who have advanced to college hockey’s version of the Stanley Cup playoffs. The Friars play April 9th against Nebraska-Omaha in Boston. Winnipeg Free Press hockey writer Gary Lawless recently wrote an excellent feature about Luke, which we’d like to share with all MJHL fans. Click here to read the Free Press story: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/doing-it-for-dad-298100771.html

  For the 3rd time this season, Portage Terriers’ goaltender Justin Laforest has been named this week’s Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week. Laforest, who hails from Carlton Place, Ontario had an 0.67 GAA, 2 shutouts and .971 save percentage. Terriers are currently up 3-0 in their best-of-seven series against Virden Oil Capitals. The runners-up are 20 year old goaltender Nick Deery of the Steinbach Pistons and 20 year old forward Jordyn Boyd of the Portage Terriers.

The Neepawa Natives announced Sunday that Dwayne Kirkup will not be returning as Head Coach for the 2015/16 season. Natives General Manager, Myles Cathcart, stated that both sides are parting amicably and the organization would like to thank Coach Kirkup for his dedication and efforts.  “Dwayne contacted me late last week. He said that he has enjoyed his two years in Neepawa. It was a positive meeting, but in the end, he has decided not to return next season.” Dwayne is a dedicated coach that had the ability to motivate his players, worked hard involving the players in the community and the organization would like to thank him for that. Cathcart went on to say that “Kirkup was a key contributor in helping to rebuild the franchise to respectability on and off the ice.  The search for a new Head Coach will begin immediately as we want one in place before the annual MJHL draft held in Neepawa at the beginning of June.” For further information regarding the position of Head Coach: Contact the General Manager, Myles Cathcart at nnatives@mymts.net or 204.841.1555c

By Derek Holtom MJHL Web Correspondent   There’s no better way to prepare a team than actual game action. And the intensity level increases 10-fold come playoff time. The stakes are high. A championship is in the offing. Virden head coach Troy Leslie said his team has really been tested as the intensity of their games has been ramped up in the post-season. “The first round was really good for us in terms of (playing in close games),” said Leslie. “We had some young guys who got some valuable experience playing in that round, with four overtime games. “That helps bring your team together, and battled hardens them.” The Oil Caps are now involved in a thrilling best-of-seven series against Portage Terriers. A complete schedule of all games can be seen on the MJHL website. Through seven playoff games, the Virden Oil Capitals have seen six decided by only one goal, including four into overtime. The other game was decided by two goals, and with the final two goals of that contest coming in the final 1:33, it might as well be considered a one-goal game. The trend continued in Game 1 of the MJHL semifinal series versus the Portage Terriers, as the Oil Capitals kept the RBC Cup hosts in check for most of the night, yet still dropped a 1-0 decision. Up and down the bench, players are stepping up their game for Leslie. But one player in particular seems to have elevated his play to a new level – defenceman Jordan Greig, who had eight assists in six games against the Winkler Flyers in the opening round of the playoffs. “Jordan Greig has logged a lot of minutes for us, and provides as lot of offence from the back end for us, and plays in all key situations,” said Leslie. “If we’re going to be a good team, he generally has to be one of our best players.” Leslie said others have followed Greig’s lead, and are playing at a higher level this post season. “Goaltender Sean Kuehn has been very good for us, even going back to the regular season,” said Leslie. “He gives us a chance to win every night, and he’s done that through the playoffs. Even in Game 1 (versus Portage), he gave us a chance to tie the game and get it into overtime. “Lucas Oliver has stepped it up as well, Corey Haverstick has been very good, and the same with Devan Schram – those guys bring it every night.” Adding to the excitement of this playoff run has been the packed arena in Virden. The Oil Capitals continue to be an attendance juggernaut, attracting 1,244 for the Game 6-clinching victory against the Flyers. “We’ve had very good fan support, and being in our third year here, it’s something a lot of people in the community have embraced,” noted Leslie. “They’ve given us a lot of support, from the regular season right into the playoffs. They really provide a great atmosphere for us.” Now facing the top team in the league, the Oil Capitals were effective in limiting their offence. Now they just need to score against a Portage team that’s hasn’t allowed a goal in 240 plus minutes. “We’re going to have to get to their net,” said Leslie. “I thought we had some decent looks in the third period (in Game 1). But we need to get some people to the net as well, and create some havoc. “We knew this would be a tough battle, and I thought we played well in our own end, but maybe spent too much time in our own zone,” he added. “So we need to make sure when we do turn over the puck, that we get scoring chances from them.”  

Tristan Keck of the Winkler Flyers is this year’s MJHL’s nominee for the Canadian Junior Hockey League/RBC player of the year award. Keck, 20, was arguably one of the best snipers in the league this season, scoring a league-high 43 goals in 60 games. “Tristan wants to attend an NCAA school and is looking for the best opportunity in his areas of interest,” MJHL Commissioner Kim Davis said today. “He’s an outstanding nominee. He has ambitions to attend a post-secondary institution and is an outstanding representative of our league. Tristan is an outstanding person, student and hockey player.” Keck was selected by voting conducted by the MJHL head coaches. A native of Morris, Keck hopes to one day study architecture or history. On the ice, he lists Tampa Bay sniper Steven Stamkos as his favourite NHL player. “I believe that it is best to lead by example,” Keck said.  “I try as hard as I can, and work as hard as I can on and off the ice. I try to encourage my teammates as well—to be the best they can be, to work hard, and to believe in themselves.” Recently, Keck was named the MJHL’s most valuable player, in addition to his selection to the MJHL’s first all-star team. Keck is now one of 10 Junior A nominees eligible for the CJHL/RBC Player of the Year Award which is awarded annually at the RBC Cup (hosted by Portage in May). Manitoba’s last national winner was Portage Terriers’ star Eric DeLong, who won the national award in 2009.

Steven Phillips, has recently secured a commitment with St. Norbert Green Knights.  St. Norbert College is a private Catholic liberal arts college in De Pere, Wisconsin, which currently enrolls about 2,160 students. Throughout the Green Knights history they have had an abundance of success.  St Norbert is amongst the most successful NCAA Division III colleges, having appeared in 15 NCAA Division III Tournaments since 1997, highlighted by nine Frozen Four appearances – and winning the national championship in 2008, 2011, 2012 and 2014 while placing as national runner-up in 2004, 2006 and 2010. The Knights where consistently nationally ranked in the top ten of NCAA Division III hockey all season. The 2014-2015 team had a 20-6-2 record and made it to the NCHA Harris Cup final before succumbing to Adrian College. Phillips, 20, a native of Green Bay, Wisconsin, was a key leader who provided an abundance of offense and physicality last year for the Natives. The skilled forward was second in club scoring with 22 goals in 58 games and was one of two import players to break the 20 goal mark in our league.   Steven reflected upon his time in Neepawa stating that it was a great place to play and develop, “I would like to thank all of the staff and teammates of the Natives’ organization”.  He shared his enthusiasm in his recent signing stating, “I chose St. Norbert because it is close to home and they have a long tradition of winning”.  “I am excited to be a part of their club next season”. Phillips plans on majoring in Business and working hard to contribute to the success of the Green Knights next season.   The Natives organization would like to wish Steven and St. Norbert Green Knights success next season. The club feels that Phillip’s character and offensive skill will contribute to the success of the Green Knights for the years to come.

Getting hot at the right time has earned forward Lucas Oliver of the Virden Oil Capitals this week’s Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week honour. Oliver, 20, recorded five points (3-2) in three playoff games for the Oil Capitals, who now take on Portage Terriers in a best-of-seven, semi-final series. The runners up are 19 year old goaltender Sean Kuehn of the Virden Oil Capitals and 19 year old forward Cam Whyte of the Winkler Flyers.  

  March 25th     Virden Oil Capital @ Portage Terriers     7:30 pm March 27th     Portage Terriers @ Virden Oil Capitals     7:30 pm March 29th     Virden Oil Capitals @ Portage Terriers     6:30 pm March 31st     Portage Terriers @ Virden Oil Capitals     7:30 pm April 2nd     Virden Oil Capitals @ Portage Terriers     7:30 pm (if necess) April 4th     Portage Terriers @ Virden Oil Capitals     7:30 pm (if necess) April 6th     Virden Oil Capitals @ Portage Terriers     7:30 pm (if necess)  

SECOND ROUND PREVIEWS   (1)    PORTAGE TERRIERS vs. (5) VIRDEN OIL CAPITALS    The Virden Oil Capitals are back into the second round of the MJHL Playoffs and much like last year, they’ll face another very strong team. However you could say this year’s Portage Terriers are on a different level than last year’s Dauphin Kings. The good news for the Oil Capitals is they were able to beat the Terriers earlier in the year. Portage owned the season series, going 5-0-1. But if you dig a little deeper and throw the first two meetings (Right at the start of the season) out the window, you’ll notice that three of the four final meetings between the two teams in the regular season were settled by one goal games. Overall the Terriers outscored the Oil Capitals 25-11, but take out Virden’s 9-0 home opener loss and it changes to 16-11. This series could end up being closer than some may think…   PLAYOFF STATS SPECIAL TEAMS (Out of the four remaining teams) Power Play: Terriers – 42.86% (1) / Oil Capitals – 15.15% (3) Penalty Kill: Terriers – 95.65% (2) / Oil Capitals – 91.67% (4) TOP PLAYOFF SCORERS Terriers: Shawn Bowles (4G & 4A for 8PTS in 4GP (T3rd in MJHL)) Oil Capitals: Jordan Greig (0G, 8A for 8PTS in 6GP (T3rd in MJHL)) GOALIES Terriers: Justin Laforest 3-0, 0.33 GAA, .985 SV% & 2 SO / Zac Robidoux 1-0, 0.00, 1.000 SV% & 1 SO Oil Capitals: Sean Kuehn 4-2, 2.18 GAA & .921 SV%     (2)    STEINBACH PISTONS vs. (3) WINNIPEG BLUES   For the third straight season the Steinbach Pistons meet the Winnipeg Blues in the MJHL Playoffs. Last year it was the Blues beating the Pistons in six games. The year previous it was the exact opposite as Pistons got by the Blues in six. Ironically enough, both teams went on to beat the Dauphin Kings in the MJHL final. However, the similarities continued at the Western Canada Cup where both groups failed to make it past the round robin stage of the five team tournament. When it comes to this year’s MJHL campaign, Steinbach controlled the season series, going 5-1-0 against Winnipeg and outscoring them 26-16. Take it for what it’s worth, but these two teams have only played each other once since the Trade Deadline.   REGULAR SEASON STATS   SPECIAL TEAMS (Out of the four remaining teams) Power Play: Pistons – 0.00% (4) / Blues – 33.33% (2)  Penalty Kill: Pistons – 100% (1) / Blues – 94.74% (3)   TOP SCORERS Pistons: Dustin Loeppky (3G & 2A for 5PTS (T18th in MJHL)) Blues: Brett Brooks (4G, 6A for 10PTS (1st in MJHL)) GOALIES Pistons: Nick Deery 4-0, 1.69 GAA, .941 SV% & 1 SO Blues: Scott Parsons 3-0, 2.33 GAA & .909 SV% / Brian Archibald 1-0, 3.00 GAA & .842 SV%

The march towards the Turnbull Trophy continues. Dates have now been confirmed for the best-of-seven semi-final series between Winnipeg Blues and Steinbach Pistons.   March 25th     Winnipeg Blues @ Steinbach Pistons     7:30 pm March 27th     Steinbach Pistons @ Winnipeg Blues     7:30 pm March 29th     Winnipeg Blues @ Steinbach Pistons     7:30 pm April 1st     Steinbach Pistons @ Winnipeg Blues     7:30 pm April 2nd     Winnipeg Blues @ Steinbach Pistons     7:30 pm (if necess) April 4th     Steinbach Pistons @ Winnipeg Blues     7:30 pm (if necess) April 6th     Winnipeg Blues @ Steinbach Pistons     7:30 pm (if necess)  

Former Winnipeg Blue forward Zach Franko has been named to the CIS all-rookie team. The Winnipegger, who turned 22 earlier this month, had an excellent freshman season with University of Acadia Axemen. The left winger recorded 30 points (12-18) in 28 CIS games. Franko played for the Blues in the 2009-10 MJHL season before moving on to the Western Hockey League.