Chase Chiefs Take Series Over Kamloops Storm

Kamloops Storm Now Has 6 Weeks to Regroup for Keystone Cup

After looking like they were going to make a series of it, the Kamloops Storm struggled to stop the Chase Chiefs offense in the second half of game 4 and were sent to the showers after falling 6-3 and losing the series 3 games to one.

The Storm started off well, particularly AP Morgan Zulinick, who showed some real chemistry with line-mates Rylee Orr and Alessio Tomassetti, had posted a hat-trick (and all of the Storms goals for the evening) in the first half of the game. But it was the Chase Chiefs who wouldn't quit in the long run. They kept fighting back, not allowing Kamloops to gain more than a one goal advantage at any time during the game.

Jordan Wood, the Chiefs hero from Game 3 (tied the score late in the game to force overtime) led his team with a 2 goal effort. The other hero from Game 3, Ian Grant (overtime winner) also scored along with Tyson Bentley, Jordie Cool and Scott Renner.

There were some interesting scratches on both teams. Riley Wall, the starting goaltender for for the previous game, sat after Jordan Bytelaar came in and carried the team to the overtime win in Game 3. Bytelaar played very well in game 4 and deserved the win. Also for Chase, veteran Colten DeFrias was a healthy scratch. Colten missed most of the season with a broken arm and it looked like he was struggling to catch up on the skills end of the game. In game 3 he asserted himself as a pest but (and I am just guessing) I would assume the Chase coaching staff didn't want to risk the extra penalty factor that hemay have brought to the game. I'm sure that he will see more ice time in the next series.

The Kamloops Storm made Gary Rai a healthy scratch in Game 4, which was a significant surprise. Rai, a talented forward who can score goals has shown a tendency to lose interest during a game and show little effort in working both ways. Some games he's been very good in both ends. Perhaps the coaching staff thought that they could get through without Rai's offensive upside... they are possibly rethinking that since it was only an AP (Zulinick) that seemed to be able twitch the red light.

As was evident for a long time, the Storm simply just didn't have the horses. The defense was young, lacking a real quarterback on the power play. Mike McCance, the only real veteran on the back end did the best that he could but he needed a little more mature and skilled help to give goaltender Anthony Manfredi the support that was required to succeed on a regular basis. The young d-men, DeFrias, Hawgood and Skinner all improved immensely during the season but it really wasn't enough. They will be stalwarts for their teams next year as they gain strength, speed and mental maturity. The forwards were just as impotent. There are guys that give you 100% every game, win or lose and some that don't... they know who they are. The bottom line was that the team really didn't have the top end skill combined with a consistent work ethic like they have had in earlier years. No one emerged as a go-to guy or unit to score a goal when you really needed one.

Chase starts their next series tonight in Revelstoke against the overwhelming favorite Grizzlies. Revelstoke finished 20 points ahead of the Chiefs during the regular season.

The Storm now have a 6 week break before the start of the Keystone Cup. If everyone hangs around, there is plenty of time to work on things and plenty of time to get healthy... the only thing missing will be competition. Let's hope that the coaching staff and the players can get on the same page by that time so that they can give a commendable effort in the tournament. I don't think anyone is expecting any miracles but a solid effort would be a nice way to repay the fans who have supported the team, not only this year but for past years too.

We will be using the blog to give periodic updates from the league and perhaps from the other leagues and provinces competing for the Keystone.

I apologize for the the delay in getting this last report out as I took advantage of an opportunity to be in Vancouver for the olympic showdown between Russian and Canada.

I would also thank most of the people who contributed their comments. For the first time in 4 years we have had to censor one idiot who couldn't take the hint that slamming everyone within arms length isn't a sport and eventually is not worthy of publication. Your opinions are important and controversy is expected. It's what makes it all interesting however when the only goal is to drag everyone else into the shit pit then we are proud to exercise our right to flush.

Stay tuned, the hockey season isn't finished yet.

DaveO

Chase Win 4-3 in OT

Storm Needs Big Win Tonight to Survive

It's a short series and the Chase Chiefs have gained back the momentum in the series with a gutsy 4-3 Double OT win at the Mac Island Sports and Events Centre in Kamloops last night.

With a handsome crowd in attendance, the two teams put on a hockey display that would make any mother proud. It was a reasonably clean game with a few cheap shots thrown out by individuals on both teams. Kamloops goaltender, Anthony Manfredi faced a barrage of shots (62 in total) and came up big all night. The Chase Chiefs on the other hand, seemed to struggle in goal. Starting goaltender, Riley Wall saved a lot of shots but had trouble holding on to the puck and/or giving up rebounds. After Kamloops' 3rd goal (to go ahead), coach Brad Faux had had enough, pulled Wall and but in Jordan Bytelaar who did an outstanding job in shutting the down the Storm for the rest of the 3rd period and in the overtime periods. Well enough to get the win and a 2-1 series lead.

Possibly the best player on the ice for the evening was Chiefs captain, Kyle Fraser who ended up with 3 assists on the night and on the ice for all 4 goals for. Other than Manfredi, the Storm got solid performances from Duncan Schultz, who has elevated his game, Jason Alessio, Rylee Orr and Bevin Ollek.

The overtime periods were the most exciting play that we have seen for a while. It was back and forth like a ping-pong game with neither goaltender giving anything up. About half way through the 2nd overtime period, it was becoming evident on how tired the teams were get and you knew that it was just a matter of time. Sure enough, with 3:37 left in the 2nd overtime period, unsung forward Ian Grant slipped the puck past a sprawling Manfredi to seal the win.

Game 4 is tonight, 7 pm at the Mac Island Sport Centre... If the Storm win, it's back to Chase's barn on Wednesday. If Chase wins they will be opening up the 2nd round in Revelstoke (either team will end up playing Revelstoke as Sicamous and the Princeton Posse are slated to meet in the next round as the Eagles disposed of the Penticton Lakers on 3 straight games.

Win or lose this series... the Storm will still be participating in the Keystone Cup in April at the Mac Island Sports Centre.

Kamloops Notes:

Cody Jules was a healthy scratch.

Mitch Lutz has decided to pack it in... apparently not happy with his ice time.

Brett DeFrias played a little forward the other night in Chase... there were just too many D-men dressed and he was given the opportunity to develop a few offensive skills. It doesn't sound like the team will need him there anymore with the departure of Lutz.

Keystone Cup tickets are available at the Storm office... $100 for the whole tournament... 250-376-0990.

Kamloops Storm Steals Game 2 in Chase

Series Tied 1-1 Coming Back to Mac Island Sports Centre

Game 1 - Chase wins 2-1 in 3rd Period Comeback

The Storm played a solid game in Chase on Friday night but it was their lack of discipline that got them into penalty trouble in the 3rd period that eventually cost them the game. Jason Alessio, perhaps the Storms most consistent two-way forward all year, scored in the first period on the power play to put Kamloops up 1-0 and it held up until almost half way through the 3rd period when Devin Hobbs finally put the puck past an outstanding Anthony Manfredi.

A couple of minutes later it was Bevin Ollek taking a tripping penalty and sure enough, the Chiefs finally made good on their power play that went 1 for 10 on the PP for the evening. Although the penalty killing units + Manfredi operated at top efficiency, something had to give at some time.

Chase goaltender Riley Wall also had an outstanding game, stopping 41 of 42 shots and earning the first star of the evening. Devin Hobbs, who had 1 goal and 1 assist was the 2nd star. Manfredi
earned 3rd star accolades for his 35 saves.

The Storm's new co-coach Tyler Liebel was watching the game from the sidelines after being suspended for some verbal abuse he doled out in the 10-3 embarrassment in Revelstoke last weekend.

Boxscore

Game 2 - Kamloops Storm Win 7-4

It was the Storms power play, including 3 in the first period that put them in the drivers seat in game 2. It was a wide open 1st period with a total of 6 goals but it was Kamloops who led 4-2 going into the intermission. The Chiefs were guilty of giving up 5 power play opportunities to their arch rivals who really put it to them.

The teams both lost their discipline in the 2nd period when 10 minor penalties were called and each team capitalized once on the PP and once each at even strength. The score after two periods was 6-4 for the Storm.

Both teams came out playing hockey instead of hacky in the 3rd period and the goaltenders turned it up a notch stopping every shot taken. The only goal scored was by Duncan Schultz who scored an unassisted marker into an open net.

Alessio Tomassetti had the big game for the Storm, coming up with the opening goal and then following up with 3 assists. Tomassetti is another player that has laid it all out on the line for the Storm since he arrived late in the season and has been a visible leader in all aspects of the game.

3 Stars.... #1 Tomassetti (Kamloops- 1G 3A), #2 Rylee Orr (Kamloops - 2A), #3 Brandon Briere (Chase Chiefs)

Boxscore


Game 3 & 4 - Mac Island Sports Centre - Feb 22-23, 2010 - Tickets available at the Door... See you there or watch to the game on the KIJHL.ca Webcast.

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Rai Scores Two

As Manfredi Holds the Fort!

Gary Rai extended his point scoring streak to 6 games as he popped 2 goals, including the winner in the second period, to lead the team to their 2nd victory this week as the Kamloops Storm beat arch-rival Chase Chiefs 4-1 in Friday night action. But it was goaltender Anthony Manfredi who stood on his ear and made save after miraculous save in the Kamloops net to help his team the victory and a first star selection.

It was a very good game with the ebb and flow going back and forth. The Chiefs sent a barrage of shots (46) at Manfredi but had a heck of a time trying to figure him out. It may have been the best home performance by Manfredi this year. At the other end, Chiefs goaltender Riley Wall had a pretty good game and made some great saves himself but it seemed like 'one of those nights' that had the pucks just squeeking by him. Wall made 25 saves on 29 shots.

Taylor Stuart was the dominant playmaker as he set up Rai for both his goals. Stuart made brilliant passes to set up Rai for the easy goals. This combo could be a real force down the road and into the playoffs as Rai is now starting to perform as the player he was expected to be. Stuart just keeps getting better all the time as his skating has improved tremendously and his hands have softened enough to be a huge contributor on the score sheet (competition beware... his hands haven't softened enough to not pummel even the toughest of physical challengers).

Ty Jackson opened the scoring late in the first period, a result of some good work by line-mates Bevin Ollek and Jason Allesio. Rai scored 2 goals in the 2nd period along with another marker by Riley Orr to complete the Kamloops scoring. Jordan Wood scored on the power-play in the 3rd period to put Chase on the board and spoil an otherwise perfect performance by Manfredi.

I liked that coach Greg Hawgood mixed the lines, especially separating Ollek and Rai. Both these guys like to do their work close in to the goaltender and they didn't seem to mesh in previous games as suspected. It also took away from the play of Jason Allesio who didn't seem to see the puck enough to work his magic. I personally liked the line of Allesio, Jackson and Ollek... I hope that we see it again.

Kolten Moen was back after a short absence (not sure what it was) and played a good game. The only regular starter out right now is Brett Defrias with an upper body injury and is not expected back until the new year.

The Sicamous Eagles are in town tonight for another important divisional match-up as the Storm attemptes to climb back up in the standings. After last nights' win, the Storm are tied with Chase and the Princeton Posse for 3rd in the division. All these teams are playing tonight and it appears that Kamloops has the toughest game. Chase hosts the 6th place Penticton Lakers while Princeton hosts the Grand Forks Border Bruins who have the worst record in the entire KIJHL with only 3 wins and 7 points so far for the season.


the boxscore

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Storm Loses Ground with Weekend Split

The Kamloops Storm and the Chase Chiefs split their home-home series this past weekend but they both ended up losing ground in the standings to the Sicamous Eagles.

After walking into the Chiefs barn and stealing a game Friday night (6-3), the Chiefs returned the favour on Saturday night at the Mac Island Sports and Events Centre with 5-3 triumph over the Kamloops Storm.

In Saturday's game, the Chiefs came out flying in the first period and put Storm goaltender Anthony Manfredi and the whole Storm defense on their heels. The Chiefs took advantage of 2 power play opportunities (Jordie Cool & David Harrison) early on and then the Storm replied with one of their own by Bevan Ollek. Then the Storm, with less than 2 minutes remaining in the period, had a tremendous... brain fart. In a matter of 36 seconds (somehow we gotta check to see if this is a league record) in the 2nd last minute of the period, the Storm imploded and gave up 3 goals to go from a 2-1 deficit in a close game, to a 5-1 laugher. It was incredible. Their defensive game literally fell apart with everyone scrambling on the ice, flopping around like seals and giving away the puck like it was a Christmas gift exchange. You could feel their embarrassment up in the stands as that ugly period came to an end. Chase ended up out shooting the Storm 23-12, just in the first period.

In the 2nd period the Storm replaced a shaken Anthony Manfredi with steady back-up tender, Will Frolek and unleashed a barrage of shots on Jordan Byteelar, out shooting the Chiefs, 25-6. All the Storm ended up with was a single short handed effort by Rylee Orr (who has definitely picked up his game of late).

The 3rd period was much the same with the Storm dominating the play but in-effective from the shooting gallery. Again the highlight for Kamloops was one short handed goal, this time by Chase Edwards.

This was a game that Kamloops should have won but that 2 minute collapse put them on a course that they couldn't come back from. The Chiefs stole their confidence early and rode it on the shoulders of their goaltender for the rest of the game. Unfortunately, coach Greg Hawgood was not on the bench (serving a one game suspension) to motivate his crew. Instead, he was up in the stands pulling his hair out, particularly during that 3 goal explosion by Chase in the first period and the 2-man-advantage the Storm had in the 2nd period where they mustered very little up in the way of offense.

This coming week sees the Storm stepping from the frying pan into the fire. On Friday night they visit the league and division leader, Revelstoke Grizzlies (who are also in a bit of a slump right now losing 4 in a row) and then they host last year's league and provincial champions, the Nelson Leafs. With the standings tightening up and Chase, Sicamous and Princeton all playing to their potential, the Storm could find themselves in 5th place after the weekend if they don't muster up any points against 2 of the toughest teams in the league.

note: it appears that Kamloops has signed former Storm player, Mike Hanes. Hanes played for the Storm 2 and 3 years ago and was a physical and agitating force on the ice. His controversial hit on the Revelstoke goaltender in the playoffs was a YouTube sensation. I can't seem to find it any more on the internet or else I would post the link. If anyone still has access to it please let us know.

Storm Hosts Fundraiser for Juvenile Diabetes Research

The Kamloops Storm will be wearing blue uniforms this weekend in honor of Juvenile Diabetes Research. This fundraiser being done in conjunction with Mohawk and Husky Energy is the second annual event. The purpose of the event is to raise awareness of this terrible disease and also to raise funds for research to find a cure.

The fundraiser is set up as a 2 night event, matching the home-home series between the Chase Chiefs and the Kamloops Storm. It started in Chase last night and follows up in Kamloops tonight.

See you there.

Kamloops and Chase Split Weekend in Pink

Storm Edges Ahead to 2nd Place in Okanagan -Shuswap Division

A strong effort from veterans Tyler Jackson, Taylor Stuart, Jason Alessio and goaltender Anthony Manfredi saw Kamloops own or share the lead throughout the game Saturday night as the Storm came through with a 5-3 victory on home ice.

Both Jackson and Stuart had a goal and two assists each while Alessio, with a strong skating performance, scored the first and last goals of the evening. Beven Ollek scored the winner with his team leading 12th goal of the season.

The Chase Chiefs got a strong performance from David Harrison, who had 2 goals while Jordie Cool scored the other.

It was a back and forth game where special teams played a big part, particularly for the Storm, as they scored 3 power play goals. The Storm looked like they were in control when they took a 1-0 lead into the 2nd period and made it 2-0 before Chase started to claw back, scoring 2 goals within 6 minutes to tie the score. Ty Jackson, again on the power-play scored before the end of the period to make it 3-2 going into the 3rd.

Again Chase tied the score as Harrison notched his second of the evening half-way through the 3rd period but it was Bevan Ollek with a mid-air tip on a Logan Hawgood shot past goaltender Riley Wall that put the Storm ahead to stay. Jason Alessio finalized the scoring with an empty net tally.

There were only a couple of altercations of note... **Catlin McLeod for the Storm took on Scott Renner during the only real fight in the game... while there was a bit of a donnybrook near the end of the game when Storm goaltender Anthony Manfredi got ran over in his crease with about 10 seconds to go.

The McDonald's 3 Stars of the Game:

1) Tyler Jackson
2) Taylor Stuart
3) David Harrison

The Men in Pink promotion for Breast Cancer was success with lots of stuff donated and auctioned off. The Storm players wore pink sweaters that were also auctioned off after the game.
It was a packed house of 900+ as both Kamloops and Chase fans were entertained by the two rival teams.

League Standings

Box Score - Saturday - Kamloops 5 Chase 3

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On Friday night in Chase, the Chiefs scored a late goal in the 3rd period to pull out a 3-2 win against the Storm in another great game. I wasn't there but I understand that the fans filled the Chase arena too.
Brock Balson had 2 for Chase while David Harrison scored the winner with 2:19 left in the 3rd period. Colten Moen and Brady Fuller replied for the Storm who were outshot 44-22. Anthony Manfredi felt the heat between the pipes for Kamloops while Jordan Bytelaar had a somewhat easier evening at the other end for the Chiefs.

Box Score - Friday - Chase 3 Kamloops 2

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Unlike the last couple of games in Kamloops, the coaches managed to stay on the bench for the entire game. The officiating crew did a pretty good job letting the players play. The players and coaches, in turn, showed discipline and for the most part, stuck to playing the game. I believe that the crowd enjoyed and appreciated the flow of the game.

**apologies for the error earlier in this post when I identified Colton Moen as the combatant for the Kamloops Storm during this game.
Colton is injured and the combatant was Catlin McLeod...
thanks to the 3 readers who quickly let me know

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Spencer Donaldson still hasn't returned to the team but Storm Ass't manager, Gary Donaldson has been quietly doing a good job for the Storm on the sponsorship end of things.

Dylan Becker is serving a 5 game suspension after receiving a match penalty last weekend in Spokane. We haven't heard what the basis of the infraction was but 5 games is a pretty healthy penalty. He will be eligible to play again on Nov 6.

Sheldon McDonald is practicing again. Expect him to be back within the next week or so to help shore up the defensive ranks for the Storm.

Next game for the Storm... Wed Oct 28 in Sicamous
Next home game... Oct 30 vs the North Okanagan Knights

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Note... I'll be out of town for next weekend's games. Mike Potestio will be doing the play-by-play on Friday night and possibly on Sunday against Princeton. I should be back on Nov 7 for the home game against the Sicamous Eagles.
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Men in Pink Night - This Weekend

The Kamloops Storm would like to remind the media and fans the Men in Pink night will be Oct. 24 at McArthur Island Sports Centre, against the Chase Chiefs. The same two teams play Friday night in Chase.

Part proceeds from the game will be donated to cancer charities.

Fans are encouraged to wear pink to the game, for a chance to be entered into a prize basket draw and numerous other prizes.

The Storm will be wearing pink jerseys during the game, which will be autographed and sold.

The on ice officials will be joining in, wearing pink helmets. There will also be autographed Jerome Iginla and Bob Gainey jerseys up for auction during the game.

Game time is 7 p.m. at McArthur Island Sports Centre.

Harpreet Sidhu

Kamloops Storm Hockey

Public Relations and Communications coordinator

Kamloops Storm Wins Round One Against Chiefs

Chiefs Lose Composure in Wake of Penalty Calls

Game Writeup:

The Kamloops Storm took round one against the Chase Chiefs by a 3-2 score, at McArthur Island Sports and Events Centre Sunday afternoon.

The Storm opened the scoring at the four-minute mark of the first period with Catlin McLeod getting his first of the season. The goal came after discussions with the goal judge a minute and half later when the play stopped due to Chase forward Tyson Bentley putting the puck behind Anthony Manfredi. Bentley’s goal was disallowed after the earlier play was discussed with the goal judge.

The Chiefs would get on the score sheet before the period was over with Brock Balson scoring.

In the second period the Chiefs took the lead with Devon Hobbs scoring. Kamloops would tie things up on the powerplay with 20 seconds remaining in the period. Jason Alessio scored his sixth of the season.

The Storm would collected the game winner at 3:52 of third period with Bevin Ollek’s team leading ninth goal of the season.

Chiefs head coach Tyler Bolt received a game misconduct at 10:30 of the third period.

In total the Storm had 24 minutes in penalties called against them while the Chiefs had 110.

The Storm improved to a 7-2-0-2 record, as they enter a five-game road trip.

Next up for the Storm play their next five games on the road. On Oct. 16 the Storm are in Beaver Valley against the Nitehawks, Oct. 17 in Spokane against the Braves and Oct. 18 in Grand Forks against the Border Bruins. The Storm are in Princeton Oct. 20 and round out their road trip on Oct. 23 against Chiefs in Chase.

Next home game is Oct. 24 when the Storm hosts the Chiefs at 7 p.m. It’s Men in Pink night at McArthur Island Sports and Events Centre. Part proceeds from the game will be donated to cancer charities. Fans are encouraged to wear pink in support of the cause.

• The Kamloops Storm new website has lauched at kamloopsstormhockey.com

Harpreet Sidhu

Kamloops Storm Hockey

Public Relations and Communications coordinator

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Our View:

The game started out well but it didn't take long for the shenanigans with the officiating crew to start... with the Chiefs coming out on the short end.

The first major gaff occurred when Catlin McLeod seemingly put the puck in the net at around the 4 minute mark of the period. The goal light went on but the referee/linesmen did not blow the play down. At this point Tyson Bentley (Chiefs) picked up the puck in his own zone and started weaving his way through the Kamloops team, taking it end to end and finishing off with a pretty goal against Kamloops puck stopper, Anthony Manfredi. It was a highlight reel goal that, to the disgust of the Chiefs team, was called back after the officiating crew consulted the goal judge and the goal was awarded to Kamloops. In fairness on this one, at least the officials consulted the goal judge. If it was in, it was in, and as I watched the reaction of the Chiefs, it was disappointing but they took it in stride and carried on.

Other than this one error (and an understandable one at that), the officiating was pretty good in the 1st period. The players got to play, the flow of the game was exciting and the fans loved the end-to-end play.

Frustration from the Chiefs bench started early in the 2nd period. There was a call on Brady Fuller (Kam) for roughing and Chiefs coach, Tyler Bolt, for some reason, lost it enough on the bench while talking with the referee and got the boot. It wasn't long after that the Chiefs on-ice discipline started to go south and the referee wasn't in a mood to put up with it. By the end of the period, the Chiefs managed to accumulate 2 more 10 minute misconducts, one for arguing with the ref (Tyson Bentley) and another for a hit-to-the-head (Vonk). Taylor Stuart for the Storm got the boot too in this period for a hit-from-behind call.

With the score tied a 2 going into the 3rd period, Kamloops picked up an early goal from Bevin Ollek as he did some spade work around the net in front of Chiefs goaltender, Riley Wall. This time it was Chief veteran Darren Pittendreigh that voiced his dismay to referee, Jason Chambers, and ended up with a 10 minute misconduct. Less than 2 minutes later it was Tyson Bentley who lost his composure and picked up a 2 min unsportsmanlike penalty + 10 minute misconduct + game misconduct.

Trailing 3-2, the Chiefs finally started to play 5 on 5 and carried their fair share of the play. During a particularly effective offensive barrage the Chiefs scored again but it was also called back due to a rather obvious penalty by Kevin Hobbs for goaltender interference on Anthony Manfredi, just before the shot was taken from the point (can't remember who let the shot go). In addition, Pittendreigh lost it again and picked up a 10 min misconduct and a game misconduct.

After having their line-up reduced significantly, the Chiefs still managed to keep it close. They continued to take penalties (4 more minors) of which Kamloops did not take advantage of. The Chiefs were given a chance to even the score when they had a 19 second power play at the end of the period.

It was deja vu all over again, except this time it wasn't the Storm that incurred the wrath of a dazed and confused officiating crew. There were a number of blown offside calls and waived icings that may have made a difference to add to the mix of frustration. Although the Kamloops fans were happy that they won this game, they were not as elated as they normally are, perhaps in sympathy for the frustration of the Chase fans. The Kamloops fans know all too well what it's like to be hanging on to the gooey, stinky end of the stick.

As we noted last week, the players don't come to the rink with the intentions of having the game deteriorate like we have seen over the last 2 weeks. Both times, the catalyst was provided by the officiating by not making the right calls and retaliating to defend their honour by showing us all how they have the power to "control" the game the way that they want.

It's a sad state of affairs that this has to be the topic on a weekly basis, but for the most part, these guys are stealing the show so, they get the print.

Dave Ouellette
the KamloopsStormWriter

Storm Weekend Injury and Suspensions Oct 9, 2009

Here is a summary of the Kamloops Storm current injury situation and suspensions.

Suspensions for Saturday only:

Tyler Jackson and Brent Fritz. - Jackson for his double game misconduct for fighting and 3rd man in. I guess Fritz takes the blame for the over-the-limit amount of fights as head coach Greg Hawgood had already been tossed earlier in the game against Revelstoke for beaking the ref.

Injuries:

Matt Pouncy wrist 1 month

Kolton Moen shoulder 3 weeks

Ryan Skinner bruised knee 2 weeks.

Sheldon Mcdonald wrist 1 month

Duncan Shulz lower body injury day to day

Other:

Spencer Donaldson has taken some time off to reconsider his hockey options.

Look for these 3 New Faces in the Line-up;

Taylor Leibel (19), Keaton Miller (18) and Jordan Suzuki (19).

Leibel was here in camp earlier this season and at this point we are not sure where the other 2 players have come from. Hopefully we will be able to fill you in at game time... This Sunday, 2pm against arch-rival, the Chase Chiefs.

Real Playoffs Start Tonight

Okanagan-Shuswap Division Finally Gets Serious

It's a good thing that Armstrong has been accepted into the KIJHL for next year. Their presence and participation should help make sense of the post-season.

For the most part, the first round of Okanangan-Shuswap Division has been a marathon of nonsense. An 8 game-double-round-robin to eliminate one team almost sounds like it was something dreamed up by the the BC Teachers Federation in fast forward. And playing 8 games in 10 or 11 days is a grueling exercise for players, coaches, fans and officials.

Rant #1

For teams like the Kamloops Storm, who have a wealth of AP players, this first round offered a valuable rest for their top players after they knew that they were into the next round. That amounted to 3 totally meaningless games. Perhaps the losers in all this though, are the fans. Without taking away from the effort of the players that did play those games, the paying fans got to watch an enhanced major midget team, without a lot of warning. I don't blame the teams that used their AP players to take advantage of this situation however one has to ask that whether fielding replacement players for half the line-up for 3 games puts the term "playoffs" on to the comic page rather than the sports page.

Rant #2

In addition, the amount of games played also taxed the quality of officiating that we saw. I know that it is a developmental league however, if I was an owner, which is my business, I would be extremely vocal about the quality of officials used in the games. When you have "boys", as young or younger than the players playing, holding the balance of power in a game, you know that their is going to be trouble. It is unfair to the official, unfair to the players and again, unfair to the fans to see a kid out there 3 miles over his head try to manage a game. Let's hope there is a lesson learned here. People don't pay money to watch a referee become the centre of attention in the game because they lack experience. That's what minor hockey is for.

Now, the playoffs begin.

The Kamloops Storm have dominated the Princeton Posse all season. Princeton is known for its physical, almost intimidating play against other teams with success but it hasn't really seemed to work against the Storm. I might say though, the one game that we saw Princeton in Kamloops during the last round, the Posse decided to play hockey rather than WWE. It was almost refreshing. However, I believe that their fate will be the same. Now that the Kamloops vets are now well rested, I think the Posse will be blown out of the playoffs. At best, this series will go 5 games.

The Sicamous Eagles - Chase Chiefs series should be more interesting. The teams are evenly matched and should go 6 or 7 games. Sicamous certainly had the upper hand in the first round, winning both games however if Chase goaltender, Riley Wall can perform at the level that he is capable, he could steal the series for the Chiefs. But somehow, I'm not sure that this will happen. At this point in time, I would have to guess that Sicamous will prevail in 7.

In the Kootenay Conference, look for the Nelson Leafs to emerge to play the Fernie Ghostriders in the final. Nelson was far and away the best team in the league throughout the regular season and Fernie has the playoff experience to move on. I can't make a more detailed prediction than that as I really haven't seen enough of the teams in that conference to know what makes each team click.

See you tonight and tomorrow night at the Mac Park Sports Centre in Kamloops for the showdown with the Posse. If you can't make it, pick us up on the internet for the game and play-by-play yours truly.

(note: the opinions expressed above are strictly the views of this writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Kamloops Storm Hockey Team)

Your Comments are welcome!

Teams Clinch Series to Move On

Okanagan-Shuswap Division have Only Meaningless Games Remaining

Even though every team that will be moving on to the 2nd round of the KIJHL playoffs there are still a few games to be played to finish the Okanagan-Shuswap Division double round robin marathon. With most teams playing 8 games in 11 days or less, this round has been extremely taxing on all teams.

The Revelstoke Grizzlies were eliminated from further contention last night with a 2-0 loss to the Chase Chiefs, which completes the 4 teams moving on. Kamloops will play Princeton (as they did last night) and Sicamous will do battle with the Chase Chiefs..

There were 2 upsets in the playoffs so far. The Kimberley Dynamiters took out the first place Creston Valley Thunder Cats in 6 games while Castlegar upset the Beaver Valley Nitehawks in 6 games.

The Nelson Leafs has moved on by easily eliminating Spokane 4 games to 1. They still remain the favorite to win the league. They will be battling with Castlegar for the Neil Murdoch Division final.

The Fernie Ghostriders are looking solid as usual at this time of year . They will play Kimberley in the Eddie Mountain Division final.

At the time of this writing the complete 2nd round schedule has yet to posted however most series are due to start Friday, Mar 6.

Storm Wind Up Season on a High Note

Playoffs Starting Tuesday Night Against Sicamous

The Kamloops Storm wound down their regular season Saturday night with a convincing 4-2 win over the 2nd place Sicamous Eagles. Kamloops took an early 2-0 lead on goals from the blueline crew as Daniel Medlan-Marchen and Doug Orr scored in the first period.

Sicamous came out flying in the 2nd period and Kamloops looked a little lax in their own end. Just past the half-way mark the Eagles scored 2 quick ones to tie the game at 2. However, no sooner had Sicamous tied it up, Mike Collins took a crossing-checking penalty and flashy Sean Menton wristed a laser beam under the x-bar, putting Kamloops ahead.

Sicamous then took another penalty (Ivan Hartling) at the end of the 2nd and it took only 19 seconds into the 3rd period for Devon Gannon to score on the PP to make it 4-2. There was no more scoring after that.

Alex Christiansen started his first home game for the Storm and looked real good. Kyle Graham came in half way through the 3rd to get a little action before the playoffs. With Anthony Manfredi on top of his game, neither is likely to see any action outside of possible first round action where 4 of 5 teams move to the 2nd round. I am only guessing but if Kamloops can win 4 of the first 5 games, the back-ups may get a chance to limber up while finishing the round robin.

As predicted by yours truly, Summerland is the team that is designated to the golf course. They won their final game against Chase and tied Revelstoke in points (42) but the Grizzlies advance on more wins.

So... What are Your Playoff Predictions?

It's always fun to predict so here are mine.

1) No surprises in the round robin. Revelstoke is going to have to dig deep to get out of this alive and I don't think that they have the guns to do it. Princeton and Chase will hold their own. Sicamous on the other hand may find the going tough too. They recently lost Curtis Summerfelt, a promising young 18 year old that appeared to lost interest. He was a good part of their offense and without him there is a lot less depth to their lineup.

2a) It's too bad that Princeton finished 4th as they will most likely be the team that meets Kamloops in Round Two. Kamloops is just too skilled and fast for the Posse. And Kamloops won't be intimidated.
Prediction: Kamloops in five

2b) Chase vs Sicamous - this is where the depth factor is going to start to show on Sicamous. Chase has got to keep their eye on the immediate competition as they will be truly motivated to move on to the divisional final against a probable Kamloops Storm.
Prediction: Chase in 6

3) Chase vs Kamloops Division Final - absolutely should be the best series in the divisional playoffs. There is a lot of emotion out there and with convincing back-to-back wins against the Storm late in the season... Chase has belief and confidence. The stands will be packed to the rafters in both buildings and the coaches of both teams (both ex-Kamlooops Blazers) will have their guys on a mission. It will be a little different Kamloops team in this round though. They have 4 line depth with plenty of capable recruits in the wings. Give an ever-so-slight edge to them also for goaltending. Riley Wall has had a great year and was spectacular against Kamloops during the season but Manfredi has been on this road before. He didn't win 2 division and 1 league MVP's for nothing.
Prediction: It's a short series (3 out of 5) so momentum is going to be crucial.
Kamloops in 5. I can see the smoldering already.

4) It looks like Nelson is the team to beat in the other half of the tournament but again, the playoffs are a marathon. Look for Castlegar to give them a run for their money in their division with Creston and Fernie fighting it out for a berth in the conferance final.

You are welcome to tell everyone your predictions on this blog. Just add your preditions using the "comments" button at the bottom of this post.

Photos from the Sicamous game below were forwarded by Judi Dupont, Java Mountain News. Some of photos were taken by her 10 year-old grandson, Josh Edgar.

It All Comes Down to This...

The Complete 2009 KIJHL Playoff Scenario
by Barry Dewar


With only one week to go in the regular season and after a combination of over 800 games, of the KIJHL season, it all comes down to the final few games. What a league.

There are only 2 teams eliminated from playoffs at this date. By the time the Storm take to the ice it could be decided but with a week to go only Columbia Valley in the Eddie Mountain Division and Grand Forks in the Neil Murdoch know they are going golfing, and only Nelson, Sicamous and Kamloops know where they will finish. Nelson has been the runaway leader in the Neil Murdoch Division and will capture first overall. Kamloops have long ago clinched first in the Okanagan Shuswap Division and will finish second overall. Sicamous has guaranteed themselves second in the Okanagan but after that it is anyone's guess.

In the Eddie Mountain Division which the Storm were champions of last season, before returning to the Okanagan Shuswap, Creston sits in first place and can control their destiny as they have a five point lead on Fernie. If they are unable to win their last two games this week they could finish as low as third and lose that first round home ice advantage.
Golden who sits in third place cannot finish any higher than second but could easily finish fourth as only 3 points separate second and fourth place all with 3 games to go.
Fernie is to play Kimberley twice and Columbia Valley once. They have probably the easiest schedule statistically as they play all their games against a team lower in the standings. Kimberley plays its other game against Golden, while Golden plays Columbia Valley and Nelson. Creston with a win in either of its last two games will clinch first place.

In the Neil Murdoch, it is no different.
First and last were decided a long time ago. Nelson has been great all year. Grand Forks has struggled. But in between it has been a battle all year. Beaver Valley can catch Castlegar for second place and had they not had points taken away due to an illegal carding of a player they would be in the drivers seat.
Spokane is destined for fourth and a first round meeting with Nelson, while Castlegar and Beaver Valley will meet each other but not sure who will have home ice advantage. The two teams play each other in the last two games which will be a test for the playoffs but right now it looks like Castlegar will have the first tie breaker as they have the most wins in the regular season.

Hold on, the intrigue begins. That might change. Twice this year teams had illegal players play and the league has ruled differently both times and I am sure a protest would be considered, if Beaver Valley beats Castlegar in the last two games. In the first case with Beaver Valley the points and wins were taken away. In the second case the Princeton Posse had the points taken away but not the wins. Interesting developments could make for another league decision to be needed which would have huge impacts on revenue as home ice advantage can sway a series.

The Okanagan Shuswap is very tightly contested and again only Kamloops and Sicamous are secured their position. Chase and Princeton are also into the round robin marathon but Princeton can still catch Chase. Princeton is behind the Chiefs by 5 points with 3 games remaining. Chase plays Princeton and Columbia Valley in their last two games. They need to beat Princeton to ensure third place. Why? ...because of the wins.

Princeton is the spoiler also for Summerland and Revelstoke and could determine the last qualifier for the round robin. If Princeton wins out it will be very interesting as Summerland will need to beat Sicamous in both teams final game of the year. Summerland has 2 games left and are tied with Revelstoke for the final playoff spot with one game in hand. Sicamous has lost its last two games although one was in a shootout.

Sicamous has been playing well but had a line brawl with Princeton in a 4-2 loss Sunday and there could be some suspensions. Coach Duner will likely get one game to increase his league lead in that category but it is questionable whether any other suspensions will be levied. Revelstoke has only one game remaining against Princeton and while Revelstoke has only had 3 wins in its last 10 it is conceivable that the last game of the year on Saturday will be a mean nothing game for Princeton and they may not play their best lineup.

It is very interesting with many twists and turns, so hold onto your hats it could be a wild and crazy finish. The only thing I know for sure is that game one of the roundrobin will start for the Storm on February 24 in Kamloops against the Sicamous Eagles. Game time 7pm. See you at the game

Crunch Time As Playoffs are Nearing

The Importance of the Last 6 Games

Having clinched a playoff spot quite awhile ago and with first place sewn up, the Kamloops Storm appear to be operating on cruise control. With a 7-3 record in 2009, the Storm have fared well with the ongoing calamity of call-ups, a rash of injuries, illnesses and suspensions.

Alternatively, the Storm's combined record against their remaining opponents for the rest of the year is not quite as impressive and if you isolate the out-of-division success, it is less than stellar.

In the 16 games that Kamloops has played against these remaining opponents the Storm record is 9-7.
Out of the division, 2-2.

With their overall success this season and high expectations, anything less than a berth in the league final would be unacceptable. Heck, they have been there the last 2 seasons so really, anything less than a championship will still be considered a failure.

The playoffs are a long haul to the finals. The results of the last 6 games could play a big part in the psyche of the team. It's nice to be at the top looking down, but when the playoffs start, it's a round-robin to start with and anything can happen. The playing field is leveled and every other team will be out to get them.

Let's hope that they will be ready... and disciplined. It has to start tonight against Chase who now actually believe that they can beat the Storm in a series. With the only winning record (4-3) against the Storm in the division, knocking off the Chiefs tonight with a little enthusiasm could be just the warm-up they need to carry them into the playoffs.

Another loss may be a recipe for doubt.

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Playoff home dates will be February 24, February 28 March 2 and March 3 all games at 7pm.

Get your tickets for one or all of the games. On sale now.

Chiefs Calm the Storm

Rematch Tonight at Mac Park Sports Centre by Barry Dewar

The Storm came out flat last night against the Chiefs, who get full marks for the win. While we came back hard in the second period it was not enough. The final score was 5-3 for the Chiefs. That was the seventh meeting between the two teams and tonight is the final regular season match up. Chase holds the season series lead 4-3. Tonight the Storm want to even that record so that they can go into playoffs with a positive finish.

The Storm were without several key players due to a line brawl last weekend. Forwards Ryan Hanes, Scott Kirkham and Austin Goode and defenseman Daniel Medland Marchen all watched the game from the stands and will be in the lineup tonight. The Storm brought up affiliate players Duncan Shultz and Daniel Buchanan for the game and both played well.

In the previous 7 games both teams have won one game in the other teams building. The total scoring has Kamloops with 25 goals while Chase has 20. Kamloops has had 2 lopsided wins 5-1 Jan 23 in Kamloops, a Dominos Pizza night and and 8-1 win in Chase on October 24. the rest of the games have been 2 goals or less. Riley Wall, a Kamloops minor hockey product has won all the games in net for Chase and has started every game against the Storm but Jordan Bytelaar did play 43 minutes in the October 24 game and 20 minutes in the Jan 23 game although Wall got the loss in both of those games. Manfredi started the first 6 games against Chase and Kyle Graham started last night. One of the Chase wins included an empty net goal, so other than 2 games they have all been close.

The Storm take on the Kimberley Dynamiters a 2pm Sunday start tomorrow. It is the return to Kamloops of Tory Caldwell who was traded away at the start of the season. Tory has not played the last couple of games for the Dynamiters but I am sure he will be looking to show his old team that they made a mistake. The game also will have Dominic Alec in the lineup. Dominic came to camp in September but thought he would have a bigger role with another team. He is playing well for the Dynos.

Tonight’s match up with Chase is also a Diabetes fundraiser . All of the jerseys being worn will be auctioned off. Minimum bid is $50 and some have some gas certificates included courtesy of Husky/Mohawk Gas stations in Kamloops. A great cause a very unique prize and maybe some gas sounds too good to be true.

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Playoff home dates will be February 24, February 28 March 2 and March 3 all games at 7pm. Get your tickets for one or all of the games. On sale now.

Limping Home

October Skid Gives Kamloops Storm Severe Road Rash

It's been 7 games (6 road games) and just over 2 weeks since the Kamloops Storm tasted victory and with a game at home against local rivals, the Chase Chiefs (8-5-3), a win couldn't come at a better time.

It has been a disasterous month with the Storm firmly entrenched in last place (did I say that?) in the Eddie Mountain Conference. Coach Ed Patterson must be shaking his head wondering what he can do to bring out the perceived talent that this team brings to the rink. Over the last 7 games they have scored all but 15 goals, just over 2 goals a game while allowing almost 4 goals/game against. But they have come so close. Of the 7 straight losses, 4 have been one goal games while last night's tilt against Castlegar was a 2 goal loss with an empty netter.

The loss of Jassi Sangha to the Merritt Centennials (temporary or permanent... I guess we will find out) is obviously a blow however this is the time that the rest of the team needs to step it up a notch. Much like last year at this time, the coach has got to be wondering who his leaders are going to be and those players must learn to lead. They need to take them over the threshold to win those one goal games rather than lose them.

Today would be a good time to change the direction of this team.

Without pointing fingers, the 19 and 20 year olds must be held accountable and the young guys need to show that they want more. There were a lot of guys hanging around for a few weeks and when the rosters were trimmed it seems that the competitive spirit has waned with the satisfaction of having made the team. Not exactly what the coach had in mind.

So rather than go out there and show reckless aggression that will keep them shorthanded, a little discipline and an unparalleled desire to win will eventually pay dividends. Let's hope that the worthy coach and owner won't have to make some drastic moves to shake out the dead wood.

Without having seen the team play since Oct 13, I will reserve further comment for a post-game analysis.

Chase Chiefs take Kamloops by Storm

Lack of Intensity may cost more than 2 points for some Players

With an overflowing roster, some veterans temporarily on the sidelines and the possibility of more players being returned from Junior A, there has got to be some questions as to who gets to stay and who gets golden handshake.

The Storm, coming off a stellar opening night victory against the Kimberly Dynamiters of Friday, showed little after the middle of the first period against new South Thompson rivals, the Chase Chiefs.

Jassi Sanga scored early in the game, his 4th in 2 games and the team looked like they expected to cruise through this one too. Not so.

Although Kamloops looked great offensively (well, the Sangha, Trenaman, Gore combination in particular) on Friday night, their defensive play was sloppy and Kimberly just couldn't muster up the offense and take advantage. Sunday was a different story. Sloppy passing, poor pick-ups, and weak clearing attempts all but exposed some team weaknesses and unfortunately some player personell weaknesses. Not to mention the lack of ability to win key faceoffs or take advantage of one's that were won. And it really wasn't the defense as much as it was the forwards giving up odd man opportunities with errant passes and slow decision making.

Personally, I believe that the Storm is further ahead in terms of personell at this particular stage in the season but with the glut of players still in camp and the potential for the team to pick up some Jr A cuts, one has to wonder who's gotta go.

Veteran utility player, Jamie Galbraith is still on the sidelines. He hurt his ankle over the summer and has started skating. He is a good bet to grab a spot before long. Jose Reyes, another league vet, injured his ankle in game one and will likely be back between 2-4 weeks.
Australian National Junior standout, Todd Stephenson, who played some exhibition games here last season against the Storm is waiting for clearance from Hockey Canada. He is likely to crack the top 6 forwards.

So, who's likely to stay? Here's our guess on how the chips will fall over the next few weeks. Coach Patterson is heading out on a 2 week road trip where he will be able to find who can and will step up to the plate.

Keep in mind, this review is our own opinion without inside information.

Who Stays?

There are a lot of guys who haven't played yet. If the team is going to carry 4 lines, we see only 3-4 spots available after the dust settles.

Forwards:

Sangha, Trenaman, Gore, Stephenson, Kirkham, Nowick, Reyes, Long

Sangha and Trenaman are a lock. Stephenson, barring some unforeseen challenge should also be a lock because of his long distance commitment.
Scott Kirkam has grown and is looking much better that last year.
Reyes is a league vet and brings an honest effort and high intensity.
Gore can obviously put the puck in the net.
Nowick and Long had solid efforts and were able to create opportunities.

Defense:
This is a good nucleus. Big, strong and mobile the Storm is blessed with quality vets and talented youngsters.

Lockwood, Wongstedt, Naka, Henderson, Caron.

On the Bubble?

Forwards:

Mike Hanes - Defenseman gone to forward, Hanes has the ability to play either position in this league. His aggressiveness (although very crowd pleasing) puts him in the penalty box much too often. With special teams playing a big part of the game these days, Mike needs to decide whether he is going to help the team or hinder it. It is unfortunate that the rules of the game cramp his style but that is the reality. If he stays out of the box Hanes is talented enough to contribute in a big way.

Jamie Galbraith - although likely to grap a spot, he will be pushed by some of the younger players to keep his spot.

Dominc Alec - showed well in the game against Chase, this kid is young and wants a spot. Needs to improve on his skating but he hits like a Mac Truck.

Devon Gannon - didn't make much happen this past weekend, needs to pick it up and be a force

Mick Ludvig - lots of intensity but is small in stature and hasn't played much the last couple of years. Similar to last years' Darren Mann but not as quick or as solid on his feet. Perhaps a couple more weeks will allow him to return to a level that is indicitive of what is required.

Riley Marsh - Played ok this weekend but with limited spots available he also has to pick it up a bit to stay on this roster.

Keelan Edwards - Made the team last year, had a serious eye injury and has returned. Keelan hasn't shown that he has improved much, particularly his skating and didn't show a lot of intensity. Possible trade bait but in tough to stay on this roster.

Stefan Jensen, Randy Hanes, Keagan Hunter, Brock Mott and a few others still in camp haven't played and may or may not get their chance on the road trip.

Defense:

This is a pretty solid group. We listed our top 5 which leaves only one or two spots open. With both Galbraith and Hanes able to play defense also, the competition gets tighter.

Mike McCance - played ok this past weekend but had difficulty with the puck when pressured and struggled on the power play when given the chance. He may be in tough here but has the ability to play in the league.

Patrick Pinder - did not play this weekend. no report.

Goaltenders:

The Storm did not have the same goaltenders at the end of last season that they started with. Unfortunately this position can be a revolving door situation. Brennan Jones is capable of playing Junior A and Tory Caldwell is yet to be game tested. The Merrit Centennials have an extra goaltender in camp and will likely be sending one this way.

Jones is #1 for now and it appears that someone either has to take it from him or he goes elsewhere and opens up a spot. I'm sure that Caldwell will get his opportunity to shine while on the road.

We expect that a few cuts will be made in the next 24-48 hrs as the team gets ready to hit the road for the first time this season. We will try to keep you updated as things progress.

Next Home Game - Oct 5 - Summerland / Oct 6 - Princeton

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