COACH'S CORNER

Coach’s Corner 9/24/07  

Coaching such a young inexperienced group has been a challenge and a great deal of fun for me.  Each week we get a little better, a little more poised and a little smarter as a team.  While with this young group we will have our growing pains and ups and downs, I am very encouraged by our progress so far.  With our injuries we have thrown our youngsters into the fire as they say and they have responded with improvement each week.  The little things are becoming the big things for them and they are beginning to understand what Junior Hockey is all about.   My captains have been very strong and solid leaders making my job so much easier.  I am pleased with our first month.  But certainly we have miles to go to be one of the upper level teams in the CSHL.  The burden of wearing the Blue Note has certainly shown.  We are each team’s “Stanley Cup.”   There are no easy nights for us, which only makes us stronger in the long run.   We always get everyone’s best effort.  With that the new players are learning how to deal with the pressure and expectations of playing for the St. Louis Jr. Blues.   The encouraging thing is although our team right now is not what I would consider one of the CSHL’s top teams, I believe the players are hungry and willing to work to get better.  Some of our young talent will develop into some very good College players I am quite confident.   This month has been tough on the kids, and they have responded with a good attitude.  I am excited about our progress and realistic that we have a long way to go.  This should be a fun journey.   

An update on last season’s squad who have moved on:  

Our two USHL guys have been doing well so far.  Chris Saracino and Jarrod Mermis each scored goals in their first USHL game.  Saracino for the Green Bay Gamblers and Mermis for the Sioux City Musketeers.  

Paul Puglisi has thrived so far under the tutelage of former NHL defenseman, Todd Gill, the Brockville Braves head coach.  Pauly has been on power play and penalty kill plus a regular shift. 

Scotty Keeven is just breaking into the lineup with the Springfield Jr. Blues and is hungry to play well for his new team.

Tristan Harper scored a goal in his first game for the Alpena Icediggers. 

Cory Spradling, Ryan Devito, and  Ryan Loach  are all playing for the Lindenwood University Lions who figure to contend for the ACHA Division I National Championship. 

Tim Jost and Bill McMillen are playing for the St. Louis University Billikens ACHA team.

David O’Connell led the WSHL in scoring after their first weekend playing for the Tulsa Rampage. 

Other Alumni making noise:   Grant Everett is second in the NAHL in scoring after the NAHL Showcase with 1 goal and 8 assists.  Grant also leads the NAHL in plus/minus.  Bret Morrell is off to a strong start also for the Wichita Falls Wildcats quarterbacking their power play and a key part of the 3-0-1 start.  Robby Moss is among the league leaders in GAA (1.61) and Save percentage (.931) and sports a 2-0-1 record for the Northern Iowa Outlaws.     Kyle O’Kane is 8th in the NAHL in scoring, playing for the St. Louis Bandits.   Ryan Kretzer had a game tying assists in the closing seconds for the Waterloo Blackhawks  in his first USHL game.   Eddie Effinger recorded 3 points in his first 3 games with the Jersey Hitmen of the EJHL.

2007-2008 Roster  

Our August Main Camp was very strong with a ton of good talent to choose from.  I don’t remember ever having a deeper Camp, especially at forward.   We have been practicing for a week now and I find this group to be very good workers and very enthusiastic learners.  This team will be one of our youngest ever, and although we expect there to be growing pains with the youth, we are very excited with the potential of the young squad.    The excitement level on the team is very high.  Coaches, veterans and rookies are all excited and really enjoying our practices.  With a few decisions made just this last week, we now have our starting roster.  Here is a review of our roster.  

Goaltending:  

Stuart Scott- 1987, 6’, 185 lbs. Returning goaltender.  Has two years of Jr. B experience.  Had a very strong season last year leading the CSHL in wins with a 25-2-0 record.  Stuart’s leadership and experience will be a help with the young squad.  Stuart attends Lindenwood University .

Max Ozawa – 1988, 5’10”, 190 lbs. Rookie goaltender.  Played last year for Culver Military Academy Varsity A team.   Max recorded a 16-3-3 record with a 2.42 GAA and a .893 save percentage.   Max has already impressed the coaching staff with his fundamentals and work ethic.  Max attends Southwestern Illinois College .

Defense: 

Grant Boyd – 1988, 6’1”, 200 lbs. Returning defenseman.  Grant played a solid role in our National Championship campaign last season.  His play improved greatly and was named to the CSHL Prospects team that played in the Toronto Prospects Tournament last May.  Grant has been named Alternate Captain as we are expecting strong leadership to go along with his play.  Grant attends St. Louis University .

Ryan Armstrong – 1988, 5’10”, 165 lbs.  Returning defenseman.  Ryan developed into a reliable skilled defenseman last season.  Good shot and offensive skills to go with his smart defensive play.  We expect Ryan to take a big share of the ice time this season.  Ryan attends Meramec Community College .

Matt Sieb – 1989, 6’1”, 165 lbs.  Returning defenseman.  Matt started last season on our practice squad and moved himself all the way up to actually playing a game at the Nationals last season.  Matt has that long reach that makes him a very effective defender.  Matt attends Francis Howell Central High School .

Eric Aldag – 1991, 5’10”, 180 lbs. Rookie defenseman.  Eric was signed in our May Camp and we feel he has all the tools necessary to become a very strong defenseman in this league.  Eric played Affton  Midget Minor Central States last season. Great skater, with good hockey sense.   Eric attends CBC High School .

Andrew Clark – 1990, 5’11”, 175 lbs. Rookie defenseman.  Andrew played Affton Midget Major Central States last season.  Andrew played a smart, physical style in Camp and we expect to see him learn to do the same in our games.  Andrew attends CBC High School .

Anthony Condillire – 1990, 6’1”, 185 lbs. Rookie defenseman.  Anthony played Affton Midget Major Central States last season.  Anthony is a tough competitor who plays a very strong defensive game.   Anthony attends Lindbergh High School

John Scheiter -  1989, 6’1”, 200 lbs. Rookie defenseman.  John played for the St. Louis Lightning Jr. B team last season.  Big, strong, stay at home defenseman.  John attends Duchesne High School . 

Forwards: 

Andrew Kurlandski – 1989, 6’, 185 lbs. Returning forward.  Andrew had a great rookie season starting on our practice squad and moving up to a top two line forward for us.  Andrew is a relentless worker with great instincts for the game.  Andrew amassed 43 points last year and has been named Team Captain for the 2007-2008 season.  Andrew attends Kirkwood High School .

Phil Blackwood -  1988, 6’, 180 lbs. Returning forward.  Phil was an offensive catalyst last season recording 71 points including 7 points at the Nationals.   Phil recorded at least one point in each postseason playoff and National Championship games in which he played in.  Phil has been named Alternate Captain and is expected to be one of the offensive leaders of the team.  Phil attends St. Louis University .

CJ Jung – 1988, 6’, 185 lbs. Forward.  CJ converted from defense last season and was a key player for the National Champs.   CJ biggest play came in the National Semi-final game with a spectacular assist to tie the game late in the second period.  CJ will be filling many roles including some point time on the power play and penalty kill time at forward.  CJ attends Meramec Community College .

Chuck Avery – 1987, 6’, 215 lbs. Returning Forward.  Chuck had a solid rookie season and is expected to be an offensive producer in his second season.  Originally from Chicago , IL , he now resides in Golden CO, and is attending Lindenwood University .

David Ulm – 1988, 5’10”, 190 lbs. Returning Forward.  David was used as a role player last year and is expected to increase his playing time and role on the team this season.  David is attending St. Louis Community College .

Jack Berger – 1990, 6’2” 200 lbs. Rookie forward.  Jack was signed in the May Camp. Jack brings a hard working blue collar attitude with skill to match.  Jack played on the Affton Midget Minor Central States Team last season.  Jack attends SLUH High School .

J.P. Burkemper – 1991. 6’1”, 170 lbs. Rookie forward.  J.P. was signed in the May Camp.  J.P. is a fast, skilled, creative forward who sees the ice very well.  J.P. played on the Affton Midget Minor Central States team last season.  J. P. attends CBC High School .

Ryan Devine – 1990, 5’8”, 150 lbs. Rookie forward.  Ryan was signed in the May Camp after practicing with the Jr. Blues last season.  Ryan is a relentless worker with good skill and great vision.  Ryan played on the Chesterfield Midget Minor Central States last season.  Ryan attends DeSmet High School . 

Nick Garlik – 1990, 5’10”, 160 lbs. Rookie forward.  Nick was just signed as he brought an aggressive style of play.  Nick also has great speed and good puck skills as we are expecting good offensive production from him.  Nick played for the Chesterfield Midget Minor Central States team last season.  Nick attends DeSmet High School .

Zach Hamilton – 1989, 6’, 220 lbs. Rookie forward.  Zach played for Culver Military Academy Varsity A team last season.  Zach is a strong, physical forward who has skill to go with his size.  Zach attends Southwestern Illinois College .

Chris Hutton – 1990, 5’10”, 195 lbs. Rookie forward.  Chris was signed in the June Camp and showed his strong, skilled, two-way hockey.  We are expecting a big season from Chris with his very high potential.  Chris played for the St. Louis AAA U-16 team last season.  Chris attends Francis Howell Central High School . 

Tyler Polizzi – 1991, 6’2”, 200 lbs. Rookie forward.  Tyler is a strong power forward type with good skill to go with his size.  Tyler played for the Affton Midget Minor Central States team last season.  Tyler attends CBC High School . 

Jay Roux – 1989, 5’8”, 160 lbs. Rookie forward.  Jay was just signed and is a very effective energy player.  Jay and his twin Justin provide “double trouble” to opposing teams with an ability to find the net.  Jay played for DeSmet High School last season and is still attending school there.

Justin Roux – 1989, 5’8”, 160 lbs.  Rookie forward.  Justin was also just signed with his twin brother.  Justin has a good knack of finding the net to go along with his feisty style.  Justin played for DeSmet High School and is still attending school there.  

Paul Zuke – 1990, 6’, 200 lbs. Rookie forward.  Paul was just signed after a very impressive August Camp.  Paul has very good offensive skills and brings a tremendous hockey sense with him.  Paul played for the Affton Midget Major Central States team last season.  Paul attends Parkway West High School . 

Practice Squad:   Chris Breunig, Derek Calicotte, Sam Davis, Alex Effinger, Zach Glazer, and John Jost.  

I would also like to welcome our two new coaching additions.  Our new defense coach is Nathan Hucker.  Nathan played two seasons for the Jr. Blues including a National Championship Runner up in 2003.  He was an Alternate Captain and went on to play two seasons of NCAA Division III hockey at Nichols College .  He completed his colligate career at Lindenwood University .   Also I would like to welcome Mark Staub as our new goaltender coach.  Mark actually was on the Jr. Blues staff 11 years ago.  Mark is a former Jr. Blues goaltender who went to St. Mary’s College and played NCAA Division III  from 1983-87.  He was a two time NCAA D-III All-American and was also invited to the St. Louis Blues training camp. 

8/10/06

GREAT SUMMER FOR JR. BLUES!

 
Our summer is virtually over with the Main Camp almost here.  I have to tell you this summer has been terrific for the Jr. Blues.  
 
Our first piece of good news was Joe Combs making the St. Louis Bandits.  Coach Cooper told me Joe had an outstanding camp and will be counted on for lots of ice with the Bandits.  Coach Cooper was impressed with Joe's total game.  Joe came in and won the job despite not being drafted or tendered.  Coach Cooper also told me Chris Saracino had a fine camp but thought it better to be a full time player for us than a part time player for the Bandits.  Chris' progress will be followed closely by the Bandits. 
 
In early July I attended the Springfield Jr. Blues Main Camp.  Tendered defenseman Dan Weiss was not at the Camp until the All-Star Game because he was in St. Cloud for the US National Select 17 Camp.  Danny arrived just in time for the game and was outstanding in his play.  Of course, Ryan Kretzer was his normal self with his great effort and creative play.  Both players looked to be a large part of the Springfield Jr. Blues team as Coach Pollos was very happy with Kretz and Danny. 
 
The next week the Fairbanks Ice Dogs had their Main Camp.  Goaltender Robby Moss apparently stole the show as he secured his spot with the Ice Dogs.  Coach Josh Hauge told me Robby was clearly the best goaltender in the Camp.  Ryan Loach took the strangest route to the Ice Dogs.  Although he missed the Camp, the Ice Dogs have continued their pursuit of Ryan and it now appears he is heading to Fairbanks as well. 
 
This past weekend, I was down in Wichita Falls, Texas for the Wildcats Main Camp.  A terrific time down there as the Texas folks sure love their hockey team.  They play out of a 5 year old facility that seats 7300 people.  The town is hockey nuts as everywhere I went they seemed to know about the Wildcats tryout.  Bret Morrell, Eddie Effinger and Cal Heeter all skated in the Camp.  Morrell at times dominated play scoring 4 goals in the camp.  Mo scored a spectacular goal in the All-Star game which got the amazing crowd very excited.   Effinger was strong all weekend and had Wildcat vets requesting their coach to have him as a line-mate.  Eddie had numerous points in the weekend and really showed his entire game.   Cal was steady in nets and saved his best for last at the All-Star game.  Grant Everett was also down in Wichita Falls even though he couldn't skate.  Grant has just been clearance to skate after off-season surgery.  Grant will be ready to go when the Wildcats start at the end of the month.  Coach Brian Meisner told Grant to be ready to go as they are looking forward to having Grant provide them what he provided us last season.  So each of the four guys got the job done and are on their way with the Wildcats.
 
I have to tell you, the flight home from Wichita reminded me of coming home from Nationals.  It was the same feeling, actually in reality a better feeling than winning Nationals to see my guys all succeed in making it to the next level.  With the fact that the NAHL lost 3 teams this year and still 9 of my guys have secured their spots.  Of course in Jr. A you always are fighting to keep that spot but they all will have their opportunity.  Tommy Lange will undoubtedly be playing A somewhere as he is still exploring some options up east.  So that is 10 players to Jr. A.  Very exciting stuff I tell you.  I truly mean it when I say it really is more exciting for me to see this happen than us winning Nationals.  I am extremely proud of my guys.       
 
While attending 3 Jr. A Camps, I have 5 or 6 out of town players who will be at our Main Camp this weekend.  Looks like it will be a heck of a Camp with a ton of spots still up for grabs.  By the way, we still might need a housing family or two, so if your interested, please contact me.
 
Let's not forget about Pat Dolan and Chad Larkowski heading to Fitchburg State, NCAA Division III.  I am really proud of those two and their accomplishments.  We also have Kyle Gouge, Tim Gardner and Ryan Holzum heading to Lindenwood College to play there.   
 
Let's look at what everyone is doing from last season's team.
 
Robby Moss - Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Danny Weiss - Springfield Jr. Blues
Scotty Keeven - Will return for us
Paul Puglisi - Will return for us
Patrick Sheehan - Decided not to return
CJ Jung - Will return for us
Ryan Kretzer - Springfield Jr. Blues
Tommy Lange -  Will attend Halifax QMJHL training camp
Brendan Sheehan - Decided not to return
Pat Dolan - Fitchburg State, NCAA Division III
Bret Morrell - Wichita Falls Wildcats NAHL
Chad Larkowski - Fitchburg State NCAA Division III
Ryan Loach - Fairbanks Ice Dogs NAHL
Bill McMillen - Will return for us
Grant Everett - Wichita Falls Wildcats NAHL
Tim Gardner - Lindenwood College
Eddie Effinger - Wichita Falls Wildcats NAHL
Joe Combs - St. Louis Bandits NAHL
CJ Chappell - Will return for us
Max Barron - Will return for us
Chris Saracino -  Will return for us
Ryan Holzum - Lindenwood College
Tim Jost - Heading to Georgetown for school
Cal Heeter - Wichita Falls Wildcats NAHL 
 
Some great stuff here this summer.  When Mr. Jost called me about 9 years ago and asked me to coach his team I had no idea what I was in for.  The complexities and challenges of coaching this team at times is very difficult.  Winning 3 National Championships sure does put a smile on one's face though.  However, being a part of player's development, on and off the ice is what is most exciting for me.  To see guys like Bret Morrell and Eddie Effinger come off the Affton Midget Minor team two years ago and to see them now about to become very good Jr. A players is very special.   To see a Robby Moss who had almost lost faith to turn in a great season and be rewarded for his hard work.  Having the talents and heart of Grant Everett noticed and appreciated by a Jr.  A staff.    Or some of the younger guys like Danny Weiss, Ryan Kretzer, Joe Combs, Ryan Loach and Cal Heeter get their chance to move on.  Chad Larkowski reaching a dream of his going to NCAA college hockey.  Of course seeing Pat Dolan, who now has the opportunity to play NCAA college hockey, that is just something really special.  So like I said, when Mr. Jost asked me 9 years ago, I had no clue what this was going to be all about.  To be a part of these players development, to see them grow up and become outstanding young men is really what coaching is all about.  Like I said, it has been a great summer for the Jr. Blues.

6/26/06

Its been far too long between updates and I apologize for that.  But it has been difficult to put some finality on the 2005-06 team.  This team was a very special team and one I won't forget.  The National Championship Rings came in and I guess that brings closure to one of the most unbelievable seasons in the history of Jr. B hockey.  

 
Season recap:
 
Last I updated, we were I knew at that time how difficult the road would be to achieve what the players were so stubbornly striving for.  This team had to be one for the ages with only one regular season loss.  Down the stretch they were still playing with intensity and purpose.  Clinching the league in January on Doc's birthday was a treat.  Many a times we have played on Doc's birthday, only to ruin it for him with tough losses in the past.  But this team was definitely a team that was going to set a different standard.  The two games in Peoria in early February were two terrific games.  Our two goaltenders were unbelievable all year but that weekend was just a spectacular showing of their talents.  Our March games against Peoria and Motor City showed that team was still hungry and incredibly took each game as a challenge.  47-1!  The best record in the long history of the CSHL!  This team was special, but they would show even more in the next month. 
 
CSHL Playoffs:
 
Sometimes the CSHL playoffs are our most difficult challenge.  Our first series against Chicago, who underachieved all season with their strong talent, came to St. Louis with their "A" game.  And who will ever forget that second game?  Some of the craziest bounces I have ever seen put us in a tough situation.  OT was a thriller, and Chad Larkowski scored a goal that might have been our biggest goal of the season.  That goal provided more confidence that the team could pull things out despite adversity.  
 
The Hurster Cup started with such adversity that I look back and wonder how this team ever got past that first game.  Toledo played well, and physically took it to us.  Losing the game was bad enough, but two huge injuries put our future in doubt.  Danny Weiss suffered a broken collar bone and was done for the season.  Danny had been so important to our team, and now we had a huge hole to fill.  Also, Grant Everett suffered a separated shoulder in the game.  Grant only missed one game and toughed it out.  You would never know by the way he played that he was hurt, he continued to be our top warrior in the corners and on the wall.  Championships are never easy and to rebound back and win the Hurster Cup we needed something special to happen.  And it did, Scotty Keeven was moved back from forward to defense and that move probably was the biggest coaching decision I made all year.  At least it was the best coaching decision I made.  Scotty provided us with a tremendous competitor on the blue-line and allowed the team to continue forward despite the great loss of Danny.  The Hurster Cup Championship against Toledo was a terrific game.  We were down after the first period, but Ryan Loach decided to take the game over scoring 3 goals in the second period to give us the advantage.   The third period was a wild one with both teams laying out on the line.  Kyle Gouge's two 3rd period goals seemed to have iced it for us, but Toledo kept coming back.  Robby Moss made the save of the season with under 30 seconds to go to seal the victory.  It was a tough, tough win.  A win that further showed why I loved this team so much.  They just were spectacular.  That's about all I need to say. 
 
Nationals:
 
Playing our first game against the Phoenix Polar Bears had me nervous.  Knowing the loser of that game might just be out of it.  Plus, Phoenix had beaten us in the 2003 National Championship Game.  That definitely was in the back of my mind as we entered that game.   Easily our best game of the entire season was played that night.  The kids were flying.  The highlight reel goals were being scored and the defensive play was tremendous.  I went with Cal in nets and he was spectacular as well.  We won the game 6-2 and that goal margin knocked Phoenix out of contention.  That was huge because frankly, they were a very good team that easily could have beaten us.   The next two games were a business like effort as we showed the focus necessary to be successful in the long week at Nationals.  
 
Semi-final game against the Northern Lights was again a great showcase for our players.  That team was skilled, big and fast.  We didn't back down and went after them with everything we had.  But the game was still in the balance early in the third period.  Words can't describe what I saw out of my guys in that third period.  We had so many major injuries that have been documented before with Weiss out, Everett's shoulder, Tommy Lange's shoulder was so bad he couldn't even put a shirt on by himself but he played.  Bret Morrell had a painful back injury from the game before.  The list goes on and on.  Beat up, tired and then the Northern Lights make it a one goal game and frankly, it didn't look good.  I was stunned by what I witnessed next.  The Kretzer, Effinger, Sheehan line pulled it out for us with the shift of the season.   It was a long shift with constant battles in the offensive zone.  They were relentless and finally getting a puck to Eddie Effinger in front.  He won his battle with the defenseman and poked it by the goaltender as he was being tackled.  It was as a spectacular a shift I have ever seen considering the situation.  I was so proud of how they handled that third period.  
 
The Championship Game was so difficult.  Every kid who had an injury was worse on Tuesday morning.  Then, Toledo scores the first goal of the game and I just had that bad feeling.  But for the sake of leadership, the leadership of Pat Dolan, that changed quickly.  Pat tied the game moments later and we gained some confidence.  The game was such an emotional game, it was hard to describe what the kids  went through.  The roller coaster ride was numbing.  We go up 2-1.  Toledo ties it 2-2.  We go up 4-2 with two spectacular goals.   Toledo comes back, ties it early in the third 4-4.   They had all the momentum.  We were exhausted.  Our 9th game in 13 days.  Injured, worn out and beaten up.  Frankly, we were down and seemingly on our way out.  But again, the Kretzer line saves us.  As it seemed the entire season the puck would end up on Ryan's stick with the balance of the game at stake.  Again, Ryan came through and scored.  The game wasn't over.  The two penalty kills in the final 7 minutes were awesome.  Blocked shots, extra efforts, great saves.  It was really special to watch.    The horn sounded and I think it was our most memorable celebration.  Thanks to Morrell and Lange I got dunked by the water cooler.  I was so excited and proud I didn't even feel it.   Frankly, it was the best feeling in the world.  
 
Last thoughts:
 
The Banquet was a long, but fun evening.  To talk about these kids was such an honor for me.  I think all who were there understood the bond the players had for each other and with the coaches.   It was a great night. The coaches and staff received a very special gift from the players.  We each were given a watch with the blue-note and NATIONAL CHAMPIONS scripted on the watch.   I wanted to thank the parents for the watches, we all wear them with great pride.   A very special gift was given to me by the players.  A book containing pictures from the season but more impressively letters from each and every player.  Some great things said in those letters guys, thank you!   A present I will treasure forever.   Also thanks to the Moms who put that book together!
 
This team broke all the standards.  Their record.  Their heart.  Their talent.   We had 7 players Tendered in the NAHL.  That is the most players Tendered by a team in the ENTIRE NATION.   That includes AAA teams, Prep Teams and Jr. B teams.   That's right, the Jr. Blues were the had the most players Tendered in the nation.  Those who know me best, know that is what I am the most proud of.  Look for at least 10 of these guys to be playing Jr. A next year.  Pat Dolan and Chad Larkowski are off to NCAA D-3 hockey in the east.   That is what makes me feel the best. 
 
There are so many players who contributed to this fine season.   Obviously Kretzer and Effinger were so strong.  Lange's talents and heart at the end was spectacular.  Goaltending with Moss and Heeter was the best 1-2 tandem I have ever had.  Loach's unbelievable  hands were always a treat.  Everett might have been the best competitor I have ever coached.  But there are a few players who stood out in ways that some might not have noticed.  Tim Jost was our leading scorer.  But he was also our best defensive forward.  Best face-off guy.  Truly a spectacular player who matured right before our eyes.  Bret Morrell had 55 points.  Most ever by a Jr. Blues defenseman.  As I did our highlight film, one thing stuck out.  His transition game led to such a huge amount of goals it was almost staggering.  Many he never got points for because 3 or 4 passes were made after his original play.  Those two just to me stood out for what this program is all about.  Tim, who has education as his main goal, but to see his game take such a great leap and Bret, who barely made the team a year ago, became such a tremendous force for us and being the first player Tendered in the NAHL.  But last and not least, Pat Dolan will be missed for so much more than his playing abilities.  His leadership has made my job so much easier.  He ranks up there with Chris Flaugher as the greatest captains I have coached.  
 
Man, I am going to miss this group of guys.   They were an honor to coach.   Unselfish, dedicated and most of all truly a great, great group on and off the ice.   They will be forever be the standard in which I judge teams.  Simply, I can't see any team doing more than what this team accomplished!
 
2006-07 Jr. Blues:
 
Two very good camps has us all excited about the challenges of next season.  With our huge success last year, we will have virtually a completely new team.  I have no idea how good we will be, nor do I even want to guess.  I do know this, the new players I have signed are excited about having an opportunity to represent the Jr. Blues the way so many have in the past.   Look for our August 11-13 Camp to be a great one with most of the positions still available. 
 
Golf Tournament:
 
About a year ago Marty Yanics volunteered to upgrade our fundraising golf tournament.  Marty did a fantastic job.  How he got great weather and even arranged for Doc to hit his first hole in one I will never know.  But it was terrific time with 128 golfers and 30 something hole sponsors.   Great day on the links.  Oh, on another note, I found it easier to defend our National Championship than it was to defend my Jr. Blues golf championship! 
 
To the 2006 National Champions, thanks for the special year.  I love you guys!  I will say this one more time:  It was an honor to be your coach. 
 
To the 2006-2007 Jr. Blues and prospects, I am excited about the challenges ahead of us and can't wait to get started! 

1/2/06

 
Sorry I haven't been updating this for the past two months.  A lot has transpired.  The team has been playing great.  The players are getting good interest.  Bret Morrell and Ryan Kretzer have tendered with NAHL teams and Eddie Effinger will be shortly.  It really has been a great couple months.  

November brought our team to a new level I thought.  The first weekend against Motor City was terrific.  The sweep of the then second place Motor City put us in a great position.  We took care of business in the middle of the month with wins over Metro, Flint, and Columbus sweep.   We sent 5 players to the CSHL Midget All-Star Team.  They played over Thanksgiving weekend.  Robby Moss, Bret Morrell, Dan Weiss, Ryan Kretzer and Eddie Effinger were a huge part of the team's success.  But during that same weekend, we traveled short-handed to Chicago.  Two impressive wins up there kept the ball rolling. 

December brought new challenges.  Two games in Toledo were very tough and evenly matched.  Robby Moss and Cal Heeter were the difference.  Tim Jost had a hat-trick in the first game also.  The team then got a much needed weekend off.  15 straight weekends of playing games starting in August up in Springfield had the guys ready for some down time.  I personally took the time to do a 4 day hunting trip with my brother Bill from Colorado and my brother Mike from here in St. Louis.  So, in my 4 days "away" from the team, I had 82 phone calls pertaining to the team.  I knew it was a large number, so I checked my cell phone bill and yes, 82 calls.  Almost all in reference to our players and their needs for next season.  It never is a dull moment around here, even when I'm killing ducks and geese.  But the good news is our guys are getting the recognition they deserve.  The next weekend was the CSHL Showcase.  We didn't exactly play great, but showed our competitive fire.   Down 3 goals in the third period against Cleveland but answering the challenge with 5 third period goals.  The two games against Grand Rapids were fast paced and good for the guys.   I know we had some older players getting NCAA Division III interest.  That was great to see.  Of course, the Jr. A guys liked what they saw too.   So, we end 2005 on a good note. 

Christmas week around here is my favorite.  Our alumni come back and give us a visit.  It is great to see the old guys and catch up on their goings on.  The scrimmages are fun for all but the goaltenders.  They were not helped much in those games.   It really is very rewarding to see the guys and more rewarding to hear how great they are doing.  Seriously, it is a great Christmas gift I receive each year. 

One e-mail question I received was asking about my thoughts on the new rules (no red line for two-line off sides).  Frankly, I hate them.  I think it hinders the development of players.  It certainly makes things more exciting.  We have scored more than a few goals with those long passes, but as a coach more concerned about development, I prefer the old rules.   Please e-mail me at STLJrBlues@aol.com if you have a question for me. 

2006 will bring many challenges.   This team has been such a pleasure to coach.  The players are great competitors, and continue to improve week in and week out.   We are now healthy for the first time all season (knock on wood).  This will allow us to use our entire roster to keep players fresh for the stretch run.  The month of January has some tough games, especially the first weekend against the Michigan Ice Dogs.  Coming off almost a 3 week break, plus they played this past weekend, will make these two games very difficult.  It is challenges like these that will only make our players stronger and better as the season progresses.  But on another note, only 3 months are left in our journey that began in mid August.  It always is a bittersweet time.  The hockey gets better, but the end of our season gets closer.  I know when it is all said and done, I will really miss this bunch.  They have the right stuff as they say.  What a group.  Hopefully they will stay healthy and have a chance to make the end of the year special.  

Come out and catch some games.  I don't like to compare current teams to past teams, but this team does some great things.  Happy New Year and see you at the rink!

 
10/25/05
 
The season is already 1/3 completed.  Our 15-1 record equals last season's record.  The team has been outstanding at home and is learning to play better on the road.  We have a tough road weekend ahead of us against 3rd place Quad City.  This will be a great test for the club. 
 
Our weekend against Toledo was terrific.  We had Kretzer, Moss and Weiss at the CSHL Midget All-Star weekend.  Plus our continual injury situation.  The guys really played with great heart and intensity.  Our passing was spectacular at times throughout the weekend.  I was very proud of our effort, easily the two best games of the year so far. In Cincinnati we had a very tough game on Saturday night.  The type of game that very easily could have gone the other way.  With the game tied in the middle of the third period, Kretzer made a play most would never even notice.  He was battling in the defensive zone corner below the goal line and got knocked down hard.  The puck went to Effinger who was out about 15 feet from our blue line.  Effinger and Larkowski started out of the zone with what looked like a 2 on 2 break.  But because Kretzer got up and was hustling without any hesitation he was able to turn it into a 3 on 2 beating the 3 Cincinnati forwards down the ice despite their better positioning.  Effinger hits Kretzer with the pass and he makes a great shot to win the game.  But it was the little extra effort that made the play way back behind our net.  That is why he is such a special player for us.  Those are the types of plays that will make us successful.  Those are the types of plays that separates the great players from the good players. 
 
On the injury front, Tim Gardner played his first weekend for us.  CJ Jung will be in the lineup this weekend for the first time.  Pat Sheehan will has about 3 weeks to go of therapy to go before he skates.  Max Barron is getting his wrist examined this week, so we should know more about his status soon. 
 
With everyone now getting healthy, our depth is really showing.  Competition for playing time will only raise the level of everyone's play.  Hopefully we have seen the end of our injury run.  Putting lines together for consecutive weekends has been difficult.  Things should start falling into place now. 
 
I would like to welcome Mike Heffner to the team  Mike is our new trainer.  He has been in the professional ranks the past few years but has returned home to start his own Athletic Training business.  Mike will be a huge help to our squad. 
 
Alumni Update:  Man, do we have some alumni doing some great things.  Joey Vitale (Northeastern), Travis Turnbull (Michigan), Chris Butler (Denver), Thomas Fortney (New Hampshire), and Eric Slais (Brown)  are all doing well as Division I freshmen.   Vitale and Turnbull are on top lines for their teams, Butler is getting a lion share of ice, Fortney has played 3 of 4 games on a veteran filled UNH team and Slais is set to open Brown's season this weekend. 
 
Mike Davies is tied for 6th in the USHL in scoring with 5 goals and 6 assists.  Brandon Bollig scored his first USHL goal this past weekend also with the Lincoln Stars.  Bollig has already established himself as one the USHL tough guys.  Zach Barron has been getting a ton of ice in Alpena.  He scored an OT winner a couple weeks ago.  Kyle O'Kane, Shawn Gawrys, Mike Keeven, and Cory Spradling are doing well in Springfield.  Mike Hewkin has been getting lots of ice in Helena.  Tommy Craig is dressing on a regular basis as a young kid for the Saganaw Spirit of the OHL.  Kyle Kraemer was leading the NAHL in scoring before his shoulder injury.  He should be back with the Wichita Falls Wildcats in a couple weeks.  Oh, and I see Tony Jost is tearing it up for Mizzou's ACHA team.   Way to go little Tony! 
 
E-mail question:  I heard from several who want us to schedule more Jr. A home games.  I know the Texarkana game was great for us and our fans.  I certainly would love to play more games here against Jr. A teams.  Most of it has to do with logistics.  But certainly we are willing and able to do it for our players. 
 
Other question:  Will Jr. B adapt NHL rule changes?   As of November 1, 2005 all of Junior Hockey will eliminate the two-line pass.  Touch icing will remain the same and the rules will be in effect through the 2006 Jr. B Nationals. 
 
As always, if you have a question, E-mail me at: StLJrBlues@aol.com

9/21/05

 
Last night was a fun night for our kids.  Our fans got to see us play a Jr. A team in our own building.   To my surprise, the stands were packed.  The kids were nervous early on and it showed.  I thought that as the game progressed, we became more confident and actually pushed the Bandits a little bit.  I was extremely proud of our guys.  They really didn't play well early, but managed to get better shift by shift.  Several things stood out about the contest.  The physical maturity of the Bandits was far above our guys.  Their strength on the puck created numerous mismatches with us.  But our skill and heart allowed our guys to compete despite the strength differences.  Our guys saw things in the game that I'm sure will leave an impression.  The need for continuing their physical development in the weight room should have been the biggest lesson.  The next is the better on ice awareness the Jr. A players had for the most part.  It was a great lesson to learn.  It will only help our player's development.  Great thanks to Kelly Chase and Jon Cooper for the game!
 
This has been a weird year so far in the injury department.  In the game last night, Tom Lange hurt his knee.  He visited the doctor today, he is out for a short while at least and we won't know his long term prognosis until next week.  Patrick Sheehan is about 3 weeks away from getting out of his cast.  Hopefully his recovery will be quick.  The talented defenseman has been missed.  CJ Jung has been recovering from his foot surgery.  CJ hasn't stepped on the ice for us yet.  Last night I saw him actually wearing real shoes and walking fine.  Skating should start soon. I can't wait to see him in action.  Pat Dolan's mono is almost over.  His spleen has checked out fine and he should be ready within a few weeks if not sooner.  Tim Gardner is on target for skating soon with a November 1 as a targeted date to return to games.  Timmy is another injury to an impact player who we will benefit from getting in the lineup.   With 3 of our injuries not hockey related, plus a couple hockey injuries, this has been a trying start to the season.  We have used 9 defensemen so far this year.  When Dolan and Jung come back we will be up to 11.  But, with every bad thing, it only gives another player an opportunity.  So far, Scotty Keeven who is normally a forward, has been very good on defense.  Other players who have filled in well on defense are Ryan Armstrong and Grant Boyd.  Both look like promising prospects.  Joe Combs having recovered from a summer injury showed up here almost unannounced.  As he gets back into shape, he looks like a defenseman who can help us.  Bill McMillen who a few weeks ago got released from a Jr. A team has been skating with us.  He played one game last weekend and played last night against the Bandits.  Bill should help us up front at forward. 
 
Got a great call Monday night from former Jr. Blue Kyle Kraemer.  Kyle was named the captain of the Wichita Falls Wildcats (NAHL).  Kyle has had several Division I teams in pursuit, he looks like another former Jr. Blue headed to Division I.  I am very proud of Kyle and his progress. He turned out to be one our favorites. 
 
Several Alumni have been around.  Mike Davies and Brandon Bollig before they headed to Lincoln (USHL).  Chris Butler came by to skate before he headed to Denver University.  Tony Miller, Nathan Hucker, Nick Karcher, and Derek Janssen all have been at recent games.   Speaking of alumni, we had a great crowd to recognize the 2005 National Champions.  All but two were in town for our home opener.  It was sure great to see that team together one last time.  Whew, what a group!   
 
Speaking of groups, the current team sure has our coaching staff very excited.  I know it is way too early to predict what type of season we will have.  But I do know this, this group has some great competitors.   Lots of area's we need to improve on, but they are a real pleasure to coach.  The coaches can't wait to get to the rink for each practice and game to work with these guys.  I am excited! 
 
Our schedule will be turning much more difficult in October.  Our early success is important as we start to hit the meat of the schedule.  Come out and see this team play.  They play with a great amount of heart and intensity.
 
Oh, to the one E-mail question I received; no, Doc and I are not twins.
 
If you have a question about the team, go ahead and E-mail me at StLJrBlues@aol.com

8/29/05

First a few questions to answer from E-mails.
Someone asked if we were going to try to move the team to Jr. A.  The Jr. Blues have been a part of the development for St. Louis hockey players for over 25 years.  Our goal is to develop St. Louis players and give them the opportunities to move on.  That seems to be working just fine.  Our recent success at the National level only further enhances our player's opportunities. 

Another question was about half shields.  The league changed their stance on allowing half shields for over 18 players.  At this time, we have decided against allowing our players to wear half shields.  A study by the Mayo clinic indicated the chance of serious facial injury increases about 15 fold.  That simply is not acceptable.  Full facial protection will be required for our players.  Several Jr. A teams have taken this path also because of the high incidents of injuries.  Serious injuries are not what developmental hockey is supposed to be about.  I witnessed a near eye loss a few weeks ago at a summer league with a player wearing a half shield.  I know of another St. Louis player who had serious eye damage while wearing a half-shield playing Jr. A.  The risks are just not worth it.  Of course, we are so young, this only affects a few players this season. 

Two weeks of practice and our exhibition games:

For the past couple weeks people have been wondering why I have been so excited about this group.  This is a really good group of kids.  They might not have the talent level of our past few teams, however they could reach those heights.  The attitude and enthusiasm of the new players has been very exciting.  They all want to learn, they all want to get better.  Very good signs for the coaching staff.  

This past weekend in Springfield was very good for our kids.  The Saturday night game against Springfield was a lot of fun for our guys.  They had some adversity to fight against.  A goal called back, a late goal to give up the lead.  But they battled back and tied it up.  Good things were happening everywhere.  It was also fun to see Shawn Gawrys, Mike Keeven and Kyle O'Kane.  They looked terrific.   

The next day was a great example of what life is like in the CSHL.  Sunday games are always tough.  Our guys saw first hand why our rivalry is so great with the Peoria Mustangs.  Our players got taught a few lessons in the Sunday battle.  But in the end they found a way to work through the tough game and win it.  The 7-3 final had no indication of how tough a game it was.  I am sure we will have several epic games with the Mustangs, AGAIN!  

A special thanks to Nick Polos and Chris Wyler of the Springfield Jr. Blues.  It was a great weekend for our players.  Plus it also allowed our players to be scouted all weekend by the Springfield staff. 

Home Opener! 

This Saturday night, we face the Chicago Force in our Home Opener.  The pre-game ceremony will honor our 2005 National Championship squad.  The players will also be presented with their National Championship Rings!  Yes, they are finally on the way.  If your a fan of St. Louis hockey, come out and help us celebrate their National Championship.  To see these guys together one last time sure has me excited.  Plus, our game against the very strong Chicago Force will be exciting for our fans.  This will be a HUGE test for our young squad.  I can't wait to see a packed house to honor our 2005 National Champions and watch the 2005-06 version of the St. Louis Jr. Blues.  This will be a very special weekend for the Jr. Blues.

8/9/05

Many nice comments about the first Coach's Corner.  I will try to keep everyone up to speed here.  If you have a question about the team please e-mail me at:  StLJrBlues@aol.com  

The Main Camp was a very good one for us.  I was particularly impressed with the intensity level of the new players.  I am pleased with our new additions.  Here is some info on our new players.

Kyle Gouge - Kyle is a 1988 forward with a great potential.  As I was signing Kyle, he told me he has only 3 years of ice hockey experience.  I about fell out of my chair.  Kyle led the entire Main Camp in scoring.  He has a lot to learn, but the ability and desire is there.  Very exciting.

Cal Heeter - Cal practiced with us last year and had a terrific Main Camp.  This month will determine where he stacks up with Hausel and Moss.  He is a very good goalie as an 1988 with a tremendous future.

C.J. Jung - 1988 defenseman.  C. J. practiced with us last year and is a skilled defenseman with good size.  C.J. had some bad news yesterday finding out he will need minor surgery on his foot.  He should be back in 6 weeks. 

Tommy Lange -1987 forward who played for the Boston Harbor Wolves in the EJHL last year.  Tommy is recovering from an injury but will be on the ice with the team this weekend.  Tommy is a great natural scorer and I am really looking forward to see how a year of Jr. A has improved his game.  Tommy has been a long time favorite kid of mine around the rinks through the years.  I am very excited to finally be his coach.

Chad Larkowski - 1985 forward who played for the Lindenwood Lions (ACHA) last year.  Chad had two tuff goes with Brandon Bollig at the Main Camp and will definitely help keep the other teams honest against us.  But his overall play is what excites me the most.  Very good skater with skill who plays a gritty game.  He could be a great power forward in this league.

Ryan Loach - 1988 forward played St. Louis AAA U-16 last year.  Ryan has a great ability to be involved in the play.  He created numerous scoring chances throughout the camp and has very good offensive skills.  Ryan has good size and aggressiveness to go with his game. 

Robby Moss - 1987 goaltender played St. Louis AAA Midget Major.  Robby is one of those goalies who is very close to the Jr. A level.  He wants to upgrade his abilities to make that jump.  We are excited to have him on board. 

Pat Sheehan - 1990 defenseman played St. Louis AAA 90.  I got a call Friday from a Jr. A coach who was in St. Cloud, MN. watching the USA Hockey Select 15 festival.  He called me specifically about Pat and told me he thinks Pat would be a great addition to our team.  Pat is a great skater with tremendous skill.  Taking a defenseman this young tells you just how impressed I am with this young man. 

I have named Pat Dolan as our captain.  Pat was such an important part of our National Championship last year.  His leadership in the room, in particular with the younger players was very important.  Pat called me Monday morning to find out who we signed on Sunday night.  He told me he wants to end his hockey career at the Nationals.  I'm sure he will be a driving force to make that happen. 

We start practicing this Saturday 8/13/05.  The team will have good speed and skill with some grit.  Our first games are only a few weeks away.  Lots to do in a short amount of time.  We have also added a Jr. A exhibition game against the Texarkana Bandits of the NAHL.  Tuesday, September 20, we will host the Bandits down at Affton.  Should be great for our fans to see a Jr. A team at our home barn. 

I am very excited about the addition of Tom Winkler to the staff as an assistant coach and Director of Player Development.  Our current staff met about 3 weeks ago to discuss the possibility of bringing Tom on board.  All of my coaches were adamant we should get Tom involved.  Creating a position of Director of Player Development will be a huge asset to our team.  Tom's contacts are endless which will only open more doors for our players.  Tom is a great friend, and I really am looking forward to working with him.  Doc is particularly excited because he will no longer be the CSHL's shortest coach.  Sorry Doc and Tom!  All our coaches will continue in their normal roles with Tom helping us in practice and games. 

The next few weeks will be huge for the players.  As coaches we will be working them very hard to get them up to our speed.  Talent got them here.  Now it is time to learn how to use that talent.  Many bad habits will be broken and new good ones will be formed.  There is so much to do.  That is the exciting part.  Especially knowing the kids we picked are all so eager to improve.  The coaches and myself are really excited about this group! 

Summer Update – 7/18/05

I thought I would try something new this year on our website.  Look for this page to be updated from time to time with inside information about the Jr. Blues.  Certainly if you ever have a question you want me to answer, please e-mail me at StLJrBlues@aol.com.  

First I want to address the two most asked questions I get around the rinks.   

  1. When are our National Championship rings coming in?  

Almost every time I run into a player from last year that seems to be the first thing they ask.  Hopefully they will be in soon.   

  1. Are you coming back to coach the Jr. Blues? 

Yes, I will be back for my 8th season with the Jr. Blues.  Apparently a chat board has me heading to the NHL.  LOL!  I will be very content to continue coaching the finest Jr. B team in the Nation.  Mike Hazelton , Doc Runco, Chris Flaugher and Tom Jost are all returning this season.   

This summer has been very busy for us.  We have already skated two Open Camps.  These Camps were well attended and we feel we have signed some quality players for next season.  Our Main Camp will be a very good one from what I see.  We still have a few spots to fill so it should be very competitive.  

Signed players:  

Max Barron – 1990 Forward, St. Louis AAA ‘90 Team Captain (Tier I National Champions) and Clayton High School .  Max is a great scorer who has the determination to succeed at this level and move on to Junior A.  

Grant Everett – 1987 Forward, Twin Bridges Jr. B, Francis Howell North High School .  Grant has junior experience and appears to have good qualities in all aspects of his game.  Grant definitely has Junior A potential as we are counting heavily on his production.  

Tim Gardner – 1987 Forward, St. Louis Midget Major AAA, Oakville High School .  Tim is a fast, skilled physical forward who has converted recently from defense will be a force for our young team.  Tim will also be one the Jr. A teams take a strong look at.  

Ryan Holzum – 1988 Forward, Affton Midget Major CSDHL.  Ryan is an extremely hard working forward with skill and determination.  Junior A is his goal, and I am positive that will be achieved by this hard working young man.  

Scott Keeven – 1989 Forward, St. Louis AAA U-16, CBC High School .  Scott is a tough, hard-nosed forward who has work ethic to succeed.  A power forward that needs some development but certainly has the potential to join his brother and former Jr. Blue in Jr. A.  

Chris Saracino – 1989 Defense/Forward, St. Louis AAA U-16, CBC High School .  Chris is a stocky, but very strong young player.  He is more than capable at either defense or forward.  As a defenseman he brings skill and grit.  He also is very good at going to the net as a forward.  Chris will also be a player that the Junior A guys will notice.   

Danny Weiss – 1989 Defense, St. Louis AAA U-16, Parkway South High School .  Danny is a very intelligent defenseman with great reach.  Danny will be the type of defenseman you won’t notice too much because he is not flashy.