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Gopher Hockey Under Scrutiny

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Allegations of wrongdoing centered around Minnesota head coach Doug Woog intensified over the weekend.

The Minneapolis Star Tribune reported Sunday that Woog concealed an illegal payment to a former player from officials in Minnesota’s athletic department, and that then-assistant coach Bill Butters knew about the payment, and hinted at that knowledge to his superiors, but did not tell them directly. Butters resigned his position in early 1995.

The payment, in the amount of $500, was made to Chris McAlpine allegedly to allow him to finish school after his NCAA eligibility had expired and his scholarship ended. Both Woog and the athletic department have acknowledged the existence of the payment; men’s athletic director Mark Dienhart has ordered an internal investigation of the matter, which is ongoing.

Already, Woog has served a two-game suspension and his program has forfeited one scholarship for the 1997-98 season as a result.

However, the Star Tribune suggests that athletic-department officials had ample warning that a serious infraction had occurred, and failed to adequately investigate the matter at the time.

The violation will be examined by the NCAA after Minnesota completes its review, and further sanctions against Woog and/or the hockey program could be levied.

Asked about the investigation Monday by KSTP-TV (St. Paul), Dienhart hoped that the NCAA would recognize the steps Minnesota has taken.

“We have control of our situation,” Dienhart said. Asked whether the violation could put Woog’s job in jeopardy, Dienhart said, “I’m hopeful that it will not,” but added that his job requires him to look carefully at such infractions.

Although this is Woog’s first significant NCAA violation, he has not been free of controversy. Last season, he was suspended by the WCHA for abusing an official during the conference tournament; also, the Star Tribune has reported several minor incidents, including Woog’s attendance at captain’s practices, and the drinking of beer by players on team trips. Many Gopher players are under the legal drinking age in Minnesota, although Woog says none of those under age were allowed to drink.

This Week in the ECAC: November 8, 1996

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The 1980 Olympic Ice Arena seems a long ways away at this point in time, but this weekend, the first massive action takes place on the ECAC stage.

Cornell begins defense of their ECAC Championship on the road in Providence and Cambridge, and Vermont looks for a second straight regular season title with home games against RPI and Union.

Let’s get the party started.

RENSSELAER (2-1-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) & UNION (1-2-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) at No. 1 VERMONT (4-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) Friday, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Gutterson Fieldhouse, Burlington, VT

UNION (1-2-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) & RENSSELAER (2-1-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) at DARTMOUTH (1-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) Friday, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Thompson Arena, Hanover, NH

RPI trounced Army on Saturday 6-2 and in turn their players proved that they can be a cohesive unit and play sound defense as well. The first line of Eric Healey-Alain St. Hilaire-Matt Garver has proven to be a force, and Mark Murphy has turned his disappointing freshman season around with three goals in his first three games. Joel Laing played the first two periods against Army and was strong allowing only one goal. Scott Prekaski played the third period and was also strong in his time. One of these two will face the number one team in the country on Friday. RPI’s defense has been steady led by a much improved Chris Aldous.

Union went 1-1 on the past weekend with a shutout by Trevor Koenig against Providence and Koenig also made 41 saves in a 3-2 loss to Merrimack. Koenig has proved his worth and he looks to be the number one guy for Stan Moore. There has to be more from other members of the Dutchmen, especially on the scoring front. John Sicinski has been sizzling playing on the first line with Brent Ozarowski and Ryan Donovan. He has four of the Dutchmen’s seven goals on the season. If Union is to continue to grow, there must be points put up by others. The defense of Union has been strong so far, allowing only six goals. Led by Andrew Will and Scott Boyd, they will try to shut down Vermont and Dartmouth.

Vermont has proved their worth so far this season with victories over BU, UNH, LSSU, and early season surprise Miami. The line of Eric Perrin-Martin St. Louis-J.C. Ruid are back and as strong as ever. The surprise line for the Cats have been their second line of Stephane Piche-Matt Saunders-B.J. Kilbourne. Saunders has pitched in early in his freshman campaign. He has four goals, two of them coming on Saturday in the Cats victory over Lake State. The six above comprise the six leading scorers for UVM.

Don’t forget goalie Tim Thomas either. He is one of the best in the country, and should see both games again this weekend.

Dartmouth played a strong game against Ottawa two weeks ago, and then last Friday they shut out Army 3-0. A three goal second period and 26 saves by Scott Baker led to the win. There should be balanced scoring for the Big Green this year as Alex Dumas, David Whitworth, and Charlie Retter scored on Friday. Watch out for guys like Darren Wercinski, Jon Sturgis, and Bill Kelleher. If the Big Green can get sustained defense from Dumas, Owen Hughes and others, they have Baker as well as Ben Heller in net. The balanced scoring should keep Dartmouth in it for many games.

PICKS: RPI at Vermont: RPI is a young team that is playing with a lot of confidence. Vermont is the number team in the nation playing with a lot of confidence. This one is going to be a barn burner as both teams like speed, but the more experienced forwards of UVM give them an edge. Vermont 6 RPI 4

Union at Dartmouth: Dartmouth has balanced scoring. Union also has unbalanced scoring so far this season. Both teams have a good defense. Trevor Koenig is on a roll in net, as is Scott Baker. A defensive struggle, but the balanced scoring of Dartmouth does it. Dartmouth 3 Union 2

RPI at Dartmouth: Dartmouth will look to pick up the pace after a tight game against Union. RPI will continue the run and gun after a night in the Cathouse. There is more offensive power in RPI than in Dartmouth. RPI 5 Dartmouth 2

Union at Vermont: Can Union’s defense hold up the Catamounts? As good as they are, Union’s defense will have it rough. A match-up of two stellar goalies in the ECAC, but the offense of UVM is too tough. Vermont 5 Union 1

CORNELL (0-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC)/COLGATE (3-1-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) at BROWN (0-1-0, 0-1-0 ECAC) Friday, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Meehan Auditorium, Providence, RI

COLGATE (3-1-0, 0-0-0 ECAC)/CORNELL (0-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) at HARVARD (1-0-0, 1-0-0 ECAC) Friday, 7:30, Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Bright Hockey Center, Cambridge, MA

Cornell opens defense of their ECAC crown on the road in Providence. Cornell has not played an official game yet, but exhibition shutouts against Team Poland and Waterloo show that this team has great defensive power. Yet to allow a goal this season, Jason Elliot and Jean-Marc Pelletier prove to be a great tandem in goal, though you would expect to see Elliot get the lion’s share of the time. Balanced scoring throughout for the Big Red. Vinnie Auger is now healthy, he has two goals already, and ECAC Rookie of the Year Kyle Knopp is back. Levi Clegg, Greg Dailey, Tony Bergin are also among the scorers so far. This edition of the Big Red is ready to go.

Colgate has played four Hockey East teams so far, and has come away with three victories over Merrimack, Providence, and UNH. They put on an offensive show this weekend with seven and six goals respectively against Merrimack and Providence. The two guys on fire offensively are Mike Harder and Dave Debusschere, who each have five goals and six assists. Rob Mara has four goals on the season, and Scott Steeves has three goals. On defense Jack McIntosh has seven assists on the young season already. Dan Brenzavich has been the goalie, he comes in with a .869 save percentage, and a 3.60 GAA. This Red Raider team already has 11 power play goals this season.

Brown played a tight game against the Crimson of Harvard on Saturday in the ECAC league opener, but wound up on the losing end of a 5-3 score. Robert Merrill opened up the ECAC scoring for the Bears, but they found themselves on the wrong end of a 3-1 score at the end of one period. Brian Audette got the start for the Bears but gave up five goals on 11 shots, and was yanked in favor of Jeff Holowaty who shutout the Crimson the rest of the way. Mike Flynn’s two assists and goals by Brent Hoiness and Ryan Longfield were the offense for Brown. They must find scoring or else it will be a long season in Providence.

Harvard opened up with a 5-3 win over Brown, and freshman Brent Chodorow continued to impress with a goal. Rob Millar added two goals as well, and he looks for a huge season. Harvard seems to be getting the balanced attack going, and they are going to need it, as there is not one huge scoring threat as in previous years. J.R. Prestifilippo made 21 saves in his ECAC debut in net. The defense continues to be led by Ashlin Halfnight and Jeremiah McCarthy. They had one and three assists respectively on Saturday night.

PICKS: Cornell at Brown: Jason Elliot is a huge goalie, Brian Audette started out shaky, and Jeff Holowaty came to the rescue to stop the bleeding. Cornell has a healthy and dangerous Vinnie Auger, plus balanced scoring. Brown needs to find the scoring. Cornell 5 Brown 2

Colgate at Harvard: Colgate has been deadly on the power play. Therefore, Harvard must stay out of the penalty box. One game under the belt for J.R. Prestifilippo, can he match Dan Brenzavich in net? The offense of Colgate and Mike Harder take over. Colgate 6 Harvard 4

Colgate at Brown: A game which seems like an offensive mismatch. It will be up to the Brown defense and goalie (most likely Holowaty) to stop the firepower. It’s a tough task. Colgate 7 Brown 2

Cornell at Harvard: An early rematch of last years ECAC Championship Game. There will be a lot of offensive chances in this game. I’ve got a feeling on this one – revenge. Harvard 4 Cornell 3

PRINCETON (1-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC)/YALE (0-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) at CLARKSON (2-2-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) Friday, Saturday, 7:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m., Cheel Arena, Potsdam, NY

YALE (0-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC)/PRINCETON (1-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) at ST. LAWRENCE (0-4-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) Friday, Saturday, 7:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m., Appleton Arena, Canton, NY

Princeton had a tough time in their last three games, two against Air Force and one against Team Poland, but they won both games. Their tough time was getting the puck in the net. With 5-2 and 3-1 victories over Air Force, all three Princeton goalies saw action. Erasmo Saltarelli allowed two goals on 18 shots, Nick Rankin made 13 saves and allowed no goals, and Craig Bradley allowed one goal on 13 shots. Who gets the time in the net this weekend? That is the question that Don Cahoon must answer. There seems to be offense coming from a lot of areas. Matt Brush, Jean Verdon, Steve Shirreffs, Mike Bois, Tony Ranaldi and Casson Masters all scored on the weekend.

Yale got a huge offensive burst and defeated Team Poland 8-1 this past Saturday at Ingalls Rink. Two goals by junior Geoff Kufta and freshman Jeff Brow helped propel the win. Yale was wondering who was going to score this season. If Saturday was any indication, then scoring might be the least of their problems. Dan Peraza, Yvan Champagne, and Matt Cumming also added goals. In goal there will be a potential battle brewing between Alex Westlund and Dan Choquette for the starting job. If one, or both, of these goalies can improve on their GAA’s of over four, then Yale has a bright future. They start in a tough place though.

Clarkson was swept at home this past weekend by Denver 3-0 and 4-2 even though they outshot the Pioneers both nights. Dan Murphy stopped almost everything that was thrown his way, but the Golden Knights found it hard to find the net. Todd White was held to only one assist this weekend. Jean-Francois Houle tacked on one goal and one assist Saturday. Clarkson must continue to shoot the puck, and capitalize on their chances. Clarkson will face two talented goalies this weekend, but a lot of shots should help them put some wins on the board.

St. Lawrence is now 0-4-0 after high expectations to start the season. Part of the problem could lie in goal. Jon Bracco and Eric Heffler were not on their game getting swept by St. Cloud, and Bracco had a bad night against Lake State on Friday, giving up four goals on 22 shots. Eric Heffler came in for Bracco and made 11 saves, and the following night against Miami he made 40 saves in a 4-2 losing effort. Clint Owen will be gone until January, and Heffler and Bracco must step up their play if St. Lawrence does not want to start the season 0-6 and get off to a bad start in ECAC play.

PICKS: Princeton at Clarkson: The Golden Knights are looking to destroy someone after losing a pair at home to Denver. Princeton is the sacrificial lamb. Wait a moment though, the Tigers will make it tough, but Clarkson will overwhelm them. Clarkson 7 Princeton 2

Yale at St. Lawrence: St. Lawrence is looking to get off skid row. Yale put on an offensive outburst against Team Poland. The key here is in goal. Will Heffler be the starter or does Bracco get another chance for the Saints? And who will get the nod for the Eli? Will it be Westlund or Choquette? The Saints have problems to solve, and Yale is the beginning of the answer. St. Lawrence 5 Yale 3

Yale at Clarkson: Oh boy, another tasty morsel for the Golden Knights. Clarkson 8 Yale 3

Princeton at St. Lawrence: Balance on scoring for the Tigers will keep the Saints confounded. The boys in Canton are looking for things to go their way. After a win over Yale, they lose again. Princeton 4 St. Lawrence 2

RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (2-1-0) at UMASS-LOWELL (2-2-0) Wednesday, 7:00 p.m., Tully Forum, Billerica, MA

In the past four years, RPI has won two, and Lowell has won two. It just so happens that Lowell has won the last two. Will they make it three in a row?

Last year a quick start for Lowell at the Fieldhouse took the opening night crowd out of it as Lowell took the 5-3 victory. Two years ago at Tully, RPI held a one goal lead late in the third, and two goals by the Riverhawks gave them the win.

Lowell has been a little inconsistent this year. After defeating BC on the road 6-4, they came back home and lost to BC 8-4. Scott Fankhouser was pulled from the nets after one period on Saturday. Martin Fillion should get a least one start against Merrimack this weekend, and should see the time against RPI on Wednesday.

RPI was previewed above against Vermont and Dartmouth.

PICK: There should be two battles at Tully: the game and Dave Hendrickson taking me on. Dave should have the advantage as his son can chop block me. He will win that battle, but RPI will win the war. RPI 5 Lowell 3

There’s a lot more ECAC next weekend, as all games revolve around ECAC teams. There’s also a non-conference game involving two ECAC teams. On the docket for next weekend:

Friday, November 15:

Dartmouth @ Colgate Vermont @ Cornell Brown @ Princeton Harvard @ Yale

Saturday, November 16:

Vermont @ Colgate Dartmouth @ Cornell Harvard @ Princeton Brown @ Yale Clarkson @ St. Lawrence RPI vs Union (at Knickerbocker Arena, Albany, NY, "The Capital Skate Classic", non-conference)

Tuesday, November 19:

Brown at Harvard

Jayson Moy is the ECAC Correspondent for US College Hockey Online.

Copyright 1996 Jayson Moy . All Rights Reserved.

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This Week in the CCHA: November 8, 1996

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Bowling Green got a wake-up call after snoozing against both Michigan State and Notre Dame, and Ohio State limped home wounded from two tough games against Western Michigan. Michigan State presented its case to rivals Bowling Green and Michigan at home, while Ferris State struggled against Mankato. Michigan handled Notre Dame 6-3 Friday, in about the only game this writer predicted well.

What’s going on with the top squads’ special teams? Some look sloppy early on, and this is the time that folks start looking at those statistics more closely. Others will look at their goalies and realize it is going to be a long season.

Here is what this week looks like:

Western Michigan (3-1-1, 1-1-1 CCHA) at Lake Superior (2-5-0, 0-2-0 CCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Taffy Abel Arena, Sault Ste. Marie, MI

Western Michigan’s power play has impressed, converting on 30 percent of its opportunities this season. Sophomore goalie Matt Barnes has been effective as well, and senior Justin Cardwell woke up, and now leads the Broncos with five goals.

Lake Superior’s speed and skill will test the Broncos this weekend, though, as LSSU is hungry for a league win. Penalties are killing the Lakers, who have piled up 214 minutes in eight games. Goalie John Graham (4.03 GAA) has had a rough start. For the Lakers to be successful, they need to stay out of the box and get some help in net.

Pick: A split. LSSU 4-3 Friday, WMU 5-3 Saturday. Alaska-Fairbanks (0-7-0, 0-5-0 CCHA) at Michigan State (5-2-0, 4-0-0 CCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Munn Arena, East Lansing, MI

Poor Alaska. This is not where they want to go right now. Their special teams have been respectable, but goaltending has been a bit soft. Sophomore Ian Perkins’ 4.70 GAA reflects not only his own inconsistency, but the defense in front of him. Scoring has not come easy either, with junior Sean Fraser the only Nanook with three goals.

Michigan State, on the other hand, is smoking, and what better way to take over first place than to sweep Alaska. The Spartans have scored 20 goals in three CCHA games, have a power play near 30 percent efficiency, and are killing off 93 percent of the penalties they incur. Junior Mike Watt leads a deep team with seven goals. This is a perfect weekend to work out kinks and enjoy winning.

Pick: MSU sweeps, 6-2 Friday, 5-2 Saturday

Ohio State (1-6-0, 1-2-0 CCHA) at Michigan (6-1-0, 3-1-0 CCHA) Friday, 7:00 p.m., Yost Arena, Ann Arbor, MI

Ohio State needs a victory against a contender to prove to its young bucks that they can compete. They almost got WMU last week, and they will almost get Michigan this week. Goaltending is the key, and the Buckeyes are learning from their mistakes as they go. The team has been outscored two-to-one in the league so far. That is no mistake, but just inexperienced goaltending.

Michigan will continue to roll on the scoring of senior John Madden (5-9–14). Special teams will dictate this game.

Pick: Michigan 5, OSU 4

Bowling Green (6-2-0, 2-2-0 CCHA) at Michigan (6-1-0, 3-1-0 CCHA) Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Yost Arena, Ann Arbor, MI

Bowling Green’s power play was shut out last weekend, dropping to 17 percent after a strong start; the penalty-killers are a weak 74 percent. This all on top of senior netminder Bob Petrie’s weak showing so far, with a disappointing 4.28 GAA.

Michigan will savor this win. The scoring punch of players like junior Bill Muckalt, who leads the team with seven goals, will be too much unless BG gets their power play going against Michigan, which has only killed at 70 percent.

Pick: Michigan 5, BGSU 4

Ferris State (3-5-1, 0-3-0 CCHA) at Bowling Green (6-2-0, 2-2-0 CCHA) Friday, 7:00 p.m., Bowling Green Arena, Bowling Green, OH

Junior Jeff Blashill and the Ferris defensive corps are not holding up their end of the bargain so far. The offense has not been much help either, only scoring five goals in three CCHA games. With a penalty-kill that is only 70 percent efficient, this team needs more depth.

Bowling Green’s power play will feast on FSU this weekend. As long as the goaltending does not repeat last week’s embarrassing nap, the Falcons should have no problem manhandling Ferris.

Pick: BGSU 6, FSU 2

Ferris State (3-5-1, 0-3-0 CCHA) at Ohio State (1-6-0, 1-2-0 CCHA) Saturday, 7:00 p.m., OSU Ice Arena, Columbus, OH

Ferris State will be looking for an opportunity in Columbus to play a weak defense like theirs, and that will be the difference. If they can allow three or fewer goals, they will win.

the same holds for Ohio State, which is not getting help from freshman netminders. Nor should they expect them to steal some right now, not when seniors Steve Brent and Chad Powers have only six points between them in seven games. The leadership is missing right now, and this game will come down to physical play, which OSU has, and goaltending, which is a toss-up.

Pick: OSU 5, FSU 3

Notre Dame (3-2-1, 2-2-1 CCHA) at Boston College (2-3-0, 1-1-0 HEA) Friday, 7:00 p.m., Conte Forum, Boston, MA

Notre Dame takes a confident group to Boston after a great win against Bowling Green. But freshman Ben Simon has yet to score a goal, and senior Terry Lorenz is not yet contributing his share at this point. The power play is an average 19 percent, but Eisler is making the games exciting so far.

Boston College needs a win like this to prove it is making a return to form in the top tier of Hockey East teams. In losses to Bowling Green they looked sloppy, but this will be different. Sophomore Marty Reasoner can eat up Notre Dame’s defense.

Pick: BC 5, ND 3

Copyright 1996 Kirk Koennecke . All Rights Reserved.

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This Week in Hockey East: November 8, 1996

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Providence College provided the big surprise last week, dropping games to both Colgate and Union. The two teams, picked to finish fifth and eleventh in the ECAC respectively, have proven tougher than expected competition for Hockey East teams.

This week could easily see sweeps in all four of the home-and-home series, although the rule of thumb this year appears to be the oldest cliche in the book. On any given night…

Last week’s record in picks: 8-4 Season’s record in picks: 21-9

Providence (3-2-0, 2-0-0 HE) vs. No. 3 Boston University (3-1-0, 2-0-0 HE) Friday, 7 p.m., Walter Brown Arena, Boston, MA Saturday, 7 p.m., Schneider Arena, Providence, RI

BU swept UMass-Amherst last week, 7-2 and 6-3 to grab their share of the lead in league standings.

"Both scores did not indicate how competitive the games were," said coach Jack Parker. "In Friday night’s game we jumped out fast with Chris Drury’s hat trick in the first period, but the rest of the game was not indicative of a 7-2 score. The score on Saturday was really deceptive because we only led 4-3 with two minutes left before getting two goals to put it away.

"I was very happy with the second win," he added. "It was a solid game on the road on an ice surface larger than we’re used to."

Before Providence lost two non-conference games on the road last weekend, this home-and-home series promised to be a clash between two top ten teams. The Friars fell out of the national rankings, but still remain a formidable opponent.

"They’re still 2-0 in the league," said Parker. "Those losses will probably make them even hungrier than normal. I expect a low-scoring game. They’ll play it close to the vest as they always do. And of course they’ve got a great goaltender in Dan Dennis."

Providence coach Paul Pooley rested Dennis against Union only to watch Trevor Koenig toss a 2-0 shutout at his Friars. The Skating Dutchmen outshot Providence 35-29.

"Union just outworked us," said coach Paul Pooley. "It was a hard fought game, but they deserved to win.

"Our specialty teams let us down against Colgate," said Pooley. Specialty teams had been the difference for Providence in their sweep of Merrimack the previous week. "We played really well five-on-five, but we made some poor decisions on the penalty kill. We gave up three power-play goals and a short-handed goal. You can’t lose the special teams battle on the road."

The Friars, who outshot Colgate 35-20, did so with some players sitting out due to a coach’s decision. They return this weekend. Dennis will definitely be in the nets on Friday and will likely play both weekend games.

"We’ll be working extra on the penalty kill this week. We also have to work on shooting the puck. Too many times we’re trying to make the pretty play and we don’t even get a shot."

This promises to be a hard-nosed, defensive series. With a more experienced defensive corps and more firepower up front, BU will sweep.

PICK: BU 4-2 on Friday and 3-2 on Saturday.

New Hampshire (3-2-0, 2-0-0 HE) at UMass-Amherst (1-3-0, 1-3-0 HE)

Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m., Mullins Center, Amherst, MA

New Hampshire finally shifted into high gear last weekend after spinning its wheels for the first few games. Tied with Northeastern at 2-2 in the third, the Wildcats exploded for five goals to run away with a 7-3 win. The following night at the Whittemore Center, they completed the sweep 9-4.

Seven different scorers connected for UNH on Friday, a welcome change from last year when only the top two lines produced. Saturday’s scoring proved more concentrated. Three players accounted for seven of the nine Wildcat goals. Eric Nickulas notched a hat trick, while Jason Krog and Tom Nolan added two each.

Nolan had appeared injured after a failed breakaway in the Friday game, a cause of concern given his past injury-prone seasons. Coach Dick Umile wasn’t concerned, though.

"He wasn’t hurt," explained Umile. "He was only hurt that he wasn’t scoring on his breakaways."

Defenseman and captain Tim Murray returned on Friday, sporting a knee brace. He played well and suffered no ill effects from the injury. Blue line mate, Eric Fitzgerald, will probably play after missing last weekend with numbness in his arm caused by an injury to his surgically-repaired left shoulder.

"We’re very pleased with our fourth line," said Umile. Three freshmen comprise the line. "[John] Sadowski and [Jason] Shipulski are as quick as anybody and [Mike] Souza’s a big, strong kid who can hold the puck. Souza has been a goalscorer all his life, but he also plays a solid, all-around game."

UMass-Amherst experienced the other end of a sweep last week at the hands of BU.

"We made a big improvement on Saturday night," said coach Joe Mallen. "It was still a 4-3 game with two minutes left. I think we showed some good progress. For once we stifled their power play and got two of our own. We had also outshot them going into the third.

"No one likes to lose two," he said. "But we’ve taken some good steps towards what we’re trying to build here.

"We’ll be facing another tough team, though. UNH has an explosive offense. They weren’t picked second in the league for nothing. They have those three great forwards, [Eric Boguniecki, Mark Mowers, and Eric Nickulas]. It should prove very challenging."

PICK: New Hampshire 6-4 and 5-4.

Northeastern (1-3-0, 0-2-0 HE) at No. 10 Maine (4-1-0, 0-0-0 HE) Friday & Saturday, 7 p.m., Alfond Arena, Orono, ME

"We’ve got a tough stretch here," said coach Bruce Crowder. "In three weeks we play series against UNH, Maine, and BU." The Huskies suffered two lopsided losses to New Hampshire, 7-3 and 9-4, to open the six-game gauntlet. They did, however, have the Wildcats knotted at 2-2 early in the third period before UNH blew the game open.

"A month from now," said Crowder, "we’ll eliminate a few of these mistakes and maybe the score is 5-3 instead. Two months from now, maybe it’s 3-3. And three months from now, we’re winning these games. That’s our outlook for this year."

Freshman Marc Robitaille has played well in the Husky nets, but Crowder pulled him midway through the Saturday game to get a look at Kevin Noke, a returning goaltender who hadn’t seen any significant time in past years. Robitaille is still expected to see the bulk of the netminding duties.

Maine swept Division II champs University of Alabama-Huntsville last weekend, 7-2 and 5-1.

"We went into last week a decided favorite," said coach Greg Cronin. "We were more interested in looking at personnel and special teams than anything else. We won the two games and met those goals. We scored on six of our 10 power-play opportunities and only gave up one goal in 11 short-handed situations. I was pleased with that.

"I was especially pleased," he continued, "with the play of Dan Shermerhorn, who has been our best forward all year, and Steve Kariya, who played very well. Jason Mansoff really stepped it up on defense as well."

Scott Parmentier sat out last weekend with a bad back, but is expected to return against Northeastern. Jason Vitorino, out with a leg injury, is doubtful.

This looks like a long weekend for the Huskies.

PICK: Maine 5-2 and 7-4.

Merrimack (1-3-0, 0-2-0 HE) vs. UMass-Lowell (2-2-0, 2-2-0 HE) Friday, 7 p.m., Tully Forum, Lowell, MA NESN Saturday, 7 p.m., Volpe Complex, North Andover, MA

This series between old-time Merrimack Valley rivals, matches up the only two Hockey East teams that split last week.

After opening with a 7-3 loss to Colgate, Merrimack salvaged the start of their season with a 3-2 win over Union.

"Our special teams did not play well against Colgate," said coach Ron Anderson. His Warriors gave up four power-play goals in six chances, while getting none in five chances of their own. "We have to get better at the penalty kill. But I did think we had more intensity at Union. We up-tempoed the game at the start and were more aggressive. We got some turnovers and goals, and it got us a win on the road."

"I thought our goaltending was very good," he added. Legault tended nets during the loss to Colgate. Thibeault stopped 42 out of 44 shots for the win over Union. It marked the fifth time Thibeault has recorded more than 40 saves, according to Merrimack stats wizard Mike Machnik. Thibeault holds a 4-1 record in those games.

"I don’t have any problem with the defense," said Anderson. "But we need to find more offense. We still don’t have any goals from our second and third returning scorers."

The call for more offense could prove hard to deliver since freshman sniper Sandy Cohen separated his shoulder and will be out at least three to four weeks. Illness struck down John Jakopin for the Union game. He is expected to return. Freshman Joe Savioli also sat out the Union game due to a shoulder injury. His return date is unknown.

UMass-Lowell fashioned an impressive comeback against Boston College on Friday to win 6-4 before succumbing to the Eagles 8-4 the following night. In both cases BC led by two goals entering the third period.

"When it was played five-on-five," said coach Tim Whitehead about the Saturday night loss, "it was a pretty good game. But it was tough for us to get into the flow with all of the penalties."

The River Hawks gave up four BC power-play goals in ten chances.

"We took some penalties we shouldn’t have taken," he said. "That’s the first time we’ve done that this year, so I’m not concerned. It was a learning experience for our team. We’re a young team and now they know they’ve got to be disciplined. Some nights it’ll seem that you’re not getting the calls. That’s when you just have to stay disciplined."

Preseason All-Hockey East goalie Martin Fillion returns from his suspension. In his absence Scott Fankhouser started all four games, but was yanked for Craig Lindsay in both games against Boston College.

PICK: Merrimack 4-3 and 3-2.

Notre Dame (3-2-1, 2-2-1 CCHA) vs. Boston College (2-3-0, 1-1-0 HE) Friday, 8 p.m., Conte Forum, Chestnut Hill, MA

It’s a Notre Dame weekend at Chestnut Hill. The Golden Domers will attract gridiron scalpers, major media representatives, and packed stands at their Saturday football game. The Fighting Irish hockey team will generate considerably less interest the night before.

Even so, coach Dave Poulin’s rebuilding efforts are showing fruits. After a difficult first year in which they went 9-23-4, Notre Dame now sports a winning record and is fresh off a stunning 7-5 upset of then third-ranked Bowling Green. Even their two losses have been noteworthy: a 2-1 loss to a Miami squad that already has seven wins, and a 6-3 loss to superpower Michigan. The days of losing games a touchdown and a field goal to zip have passed.

Sophomore Aniket Dhadphale leads the Fighting Irish scoring with three goals and four assists. Freshman Joe Dusbabek and junior Lyle Andrusiak have picked up six points to date. Returning top scorers Tim Harberts and Brian Urick have totaled five and four points respectively.

Goaltender Matt Eisler has dropped more than a goal off his goals against average from last year, posting a 3.33 GAA and a .914 save percentage.

Last week Boston College split against UMass-Lowell, BC’s first opponent not found in the top ten. The loss disappointed fans who had considered the River Hawks easy pickings compared to Bowling Green and Michigan State. After losing a two-goal, third period lead at home, the Eagles translated that same advantage into a win at Tully Forum.

"I thought Friday we played a superb forty minutes," said coach Jerry York, "but then we walked through the last twenty. [On Saturday] we played well for the full sixty.

"It was nice to get some power play goals," he said. The Eagle power play had entered the weekend oh-for-the-season, but scored four in the win. "Our top power-play unit now has a 19-year old sophomore and four 18-year old freshmen . We feel that group has a tremendous upside." That group includes sophomore Marty Reasoner, who looked like a man amongst boys in the second Lowell game, and freshmen Mike Mottau, Jeff Farkas, Blake Bellefeuille, and Kevin Caulfield.

Mike Correia and Greg Taylor split netminding duties last weekend. York wants to avoid wearing Taylor out, while also giving Correia some experience so he’ll be ready to replace Taylor next year.

"I’m looking for a split of 24 and 10 games for Greg and Mike this year," said York. "That way Greg will be fresher when the games get more important.

"We have the makings of a very fine hockey team," he said. "But it will take until January or February for us to put it all together. That’s not a bad time to be peaking."

PICK: Boston College 4-3.

Rensselaer (2-1-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) vs. UMass-Lowell (2-2-0, 2-2-0 HE) Wednesday (11/13), 7 p.m., Tully Forum, Lowell, MA

Rensselaer visits Lowell (previewed above) for a rare mid-week clash. The Engineers are a mystery team, having played BU tough in a 5-3 loss while beating Northeastern 4-3 and Army 6-2.

Freshmen goalies Joel Laing and Scott Prekaski have played well. Who gets the nod in this game will likely depend on this weekend’s games. Eric Healey, Mark Murphy, and Alain St. Hilaire have caught ECAC Correspondent Jayson Moy’s eye as particularly productive Engineers.

In this battle of very young teams, the nod goes to the kids playing on their own ice.

PICK: UMass-Lowell 5-4.

Dave Hendrickson is the Hockey East Correspondent for U.S. College Hockey Online.

Copyright 1996 Dave Hendrickson . All Rights Reserved.

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This Week in the WCHA: November 8, 1996

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This year’s WCHA race, if it stays on the same course, will need a photo finish to determine not only a winner but a last-place team as well.

North Dakota is the exception this year; the Fighting Sioux have started strong and lead the league after three weekends of action. But after UND the race is tighter than a drumhead, with every team gaining and within four points of second place.

A big game this weekend has UND going to Minnesota to face the Gophers in what should be a great, and typical, WCHA series. In other games — and this year they’re all important — Minnesota-Duluth is at St. Cloud State, Wisconsin visits Northern Michigan and Colorado College and Denver play a home-and-home series.

Here’s a look at each series.

North Dakota (6-1-0, 6-0-0 WCHA) at Minnesota (3-3-0, 3-3-0 WCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:05 CT, Mariucci Arena, Minneapolis, MN North Dakota has taken the league by surprise, but it’s Minnesota who would like to have the party this weekend.

UND has put together an excellent early-season run; they are undefeated in league play and at the top of the standings. They have put together three distinct parts of their game this year: timely scoring, team defense and good goaltending. Teams like that win, and that’s what Coach Dean Blais has the Fighting Sioux doing this year. Can players like Dave Hoogsteen, Jason Blake, Toby Kvalevog and Kevin Hoogsteen continue their excellent play, especially in a big series with an even bigger rival?

Minnesota players and coaches remember the past few years, when rivals have built big leads and been impossible to catch. Nobody in the league (except maybe North Dakota) wants that to happen again, and the Gophers hope to stop UND this weekend. Playing at home should help the Gophers, but UND has looked good both at home and on the road. Erik Rasmussen (4-2–6) and Mike Crowley (1-5–6) have been the offensive leaders for the Gophers, while Steve DeBus (3-3, 2.85 GAA, .898 SV%) has been solid in goal.

ELMO Picks: The Gophers make it a race by winning twice: 4-3, 4-2.

Minnesota-Duluth (4-2-0, 3-1-0 WCHA) at St. Cloud State (4-2-0, 2-2-0 WCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:05 CT, National Hockey Center, St. Cloud, MN

Both teams have to be happy with their seasons so far. This weekend both are confident, and the Bulldogs and Huskies want to stay close to the top.

After a week’s rest, Duluth will look to Mike Peluso (5-3–8), Ken Dzikowski (2-5–7) and Brad Federenko (2-4–6) to lead the way. Peluso has three of his team’s seven power-play goals and has taken on the leadership shoes. Goalie Brant Nicklin (4-1-0, 2.00 GAA, .923 SV%) has been there to make the big saves.

This series presents a chance for the Huskies to make a move against an in-state rival. Coach Craig Dahl will have to have his team going on all cycles to win and make a statement to the other league teams. Matt Cullen (1-8–9), Sacha Molin (6-1–7) and Mark Parrish (3-4–7) have been wonderful offensively while defenseman Josh DeWolf (2-4–6) has also made his talents known.

ELMO Picks: A close split. SCSU 4-3, UMD 5-4.

Wisconsin (3-3-0, 3-3-0 WCHA) at Northern Michigan (2-5-1, 2-4-0 WCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:05 ET, Lakeview Arena, Marquette, MI

The Badgers’ Friday win over Minnesota last weekend should have showed them that they can play well against good competition. But what effect did Saturday’s loss have? The Badgers have not looked good on Saturdays this year (three straight). If they want to compete for a top finish, that will have to be corrected. A special note: Saturday’s win gave coach Jeff Sauer his 367th at Wisconsin, tying him with the legendary Bob Johnson for the school record. Goalie Kirk Daubenspeck will need another good weekend of play. Erik Raygor, Joe Bianchi and company will need two nights of solid effort.

Northern Michigan’s young lineup hasn’t made life easy for opponents this year. As these players gain experience, look for more good things to happen. Bud Smith (1-4–5), a freshman, leads the Wildcats in scoring. Curtis Sheptak (1-3–4) is next. In all, eight of the top 10 scorers are freshmen. Goalie Dieter Kochan (2-4-0, 3.67 GAA, .901 SV%) has been brilliant in averaging 33 saves a game.

ELMO Picks: The Badgers sweep: 4-2, 3-1.

Colorado College (3-3-0, 3-3-0 WCHA) at Denver (3-3-0, 1-3-0 WCHA) Friday, 7:05 MT, DU Arena, Denver, CO Denver (3-3-0, 1-3-0 WCHA) at Colorado College (3-3-0, 3-3-0 WCHA) Sunday, 2:05 MT, AFA Cadet Ice Arena, Air Force Academy, CO

This is another in-state rivalry that will jam the arenas with plenty of up-and-down action.

Colorado College is another team playing poorly one night of the week; the Tigers have lost three straight Friday games coming into this weekend. Last Friday’s loss to SCSU snapped a 28-game undefeated streak in that series. However, there was one good note about Friday: the Tigers scored their first power-play goal in 27 chances. Brian Swanson (3-3–6) and Eric Rud (1-5–6) lead the team in scoring. Judd Lambert (2-3-0, 3.39 GAA, .864 SV%) is the top netminder.

Coach George Gwozdecky hopes his team will be consistent this weekend against a big rival. Antti Laaksonen (1-5–6) and Paul Comrie (3-3–6) lead the team in scoring, and Stephen Wagner (2-0-0, 2.80 GAA, .923 SV%) has been consistent between the pipes. The Pioneers have been a streaky club this year, losing three straight before their current run of three wins. After this series, the Pioneers play Alaska-Anchorage, Michigan Tech and Northern Michigan; they’ll want to put together a solid run before December hits.

ELMO Picks: A split. CC 5-2, DU 4-1.

Next Week in the WCHA Friday, Nov.15 Alaska-Anchorage at Denver Northern Michigan at Minnesota-Duluth St. Cloud State at North Dakota Saturday, Nov. 16 Alaska-Anchorage at Denver Northern Michigan at Minnesota-Duluth St. Cloud State at North Dakota Michigan Tech at Minnesota Wisconsin at Colorado College Sunday, Nov. 17 Michigan Tech at Minnesota Wisconsin at Colorado College

Copyright 1996 Jim Thies . All Rights Reserved.

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This Week in the ECAC: November 1, 1996

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While the ECAC nonconference schedule continues, the regular season starts this weekend as teams begin the road to Lake Placid.

The ECAC went 3-2 against the Hockey East and 0-2 against the WCHA, as St. Cloud swept a pair from St. Lawrence. There’s interaction with the other three leagues this weekend, as well as with independents. Let’s get it rolling with the annual ECAC opener, Brown vs. Harvard.

HARVARD (0-0-0) at BROWN (0-0-0) Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Meehan Auditorium, Providence, RI

The annual league opener takes place this year in Rhode Island. The two teams are travel partners, Ivy League rivals, and finished in sixth and seventh place last season respectively. This is the 123rd meeting between the two teams, with Harvard leading America’s oldest rivalry 85-30-7.

Both Harvard and Brown have only had one exhibition game, each of them disposing of Team Poland. The only thing that really came out of these exhibitions was that freshmen got their first game experience, and the returners, skated again.

For the Crimson, it will be the first Division I test for some of the freshmen, who once again were named one of the strongest recruiting classes in college hockey. Freshmen Brett Chodorow and Jamin Kernar got their first goals against the Poles. Matt Scorsune also tallied an assist. In goal, J.R. Prestifilippo saw his first action. You have to wonder which goalie Harvard coach Ronn Tomassoni will start on Saturday, Prestifilippo or sophomore Peter Zakowich. The key in this game will be the offense generated by the forwards of Harvard. They face a tough Brown defense, and folks like Henry Higdon and Craig Adams must get on the board. If Craig MacDonald can continue his stellar play centering the two freshmen, Chodorow and Kernar, then they will score on the Bears.

Taking a look at the Brown Bears, their returnees got the scoring done. Senior Marty Clapton notched four points (two goals and two assists) as he was centered by Jade Kersey, who picked up four assists himself. The other member of that line, junior Damien Prescott, also picked up two goals and an assist to boot. Mike Flynn must get on the board as well. The key for the Bears is that they score early, and score often. Their defense will hold them. Bill McKay, D.J. Harding, and Jimmy Andersson are the blue line anchors.

A close defensive struggle seems to be on tap here. The offense from the front lines gives Harvard the nod.

PICK: Harvard 4 Brown 2

LAKE SUPERIOR STATE (1-4-1), and MIAMI (OH) (6-1-0) at ST. LAWRENCE (0-2-0) Friday, 7:30 p.m. vs. LSSU, Saturday 7 p.m. vs. Miami, Appleton Arena, Canton, NY

MIAMI (OH) (6-1-0), and LAKE SUPERIOR STATE (1-4-1) at VERMONT (2-0-0) Friday, 7:30 p.m. vs. Miami, Saturday 7 p.m. vs. LSSU, Gutterson Fieldhouse, Burlington, VT

Two CCHA teams make the trip to the northern reaches of the ECAC to play two of the top four teams in the league. Should be an interesting weekend for all four teams.

Lake Superior State comes in a disappointing 1-4-1. They were swept by Bowling Green this past weekend 6-4 and 4-2 as they opened CCHA league play.

There have been few bright spots for the Lakers this season. Junior Joe Blaznek tallied a hat trick last Friday in the loss, and is surprising 4-4-8. Other than that new head coach Scott Borek has seen some disappointment from his returners. In goal John Grahame is 1-4-0, with a 4.02 GAA, and an .859 save percentage. Junior Bates Battaglia has only tallied one goal this season, that coming last Saturday, to go along with his three assists, all of which came October 20 against Maine.

Some stiff competition again this weekend for the Lakers, can they break the funk against Vermont and St. Lawrence?

Miami on the other hand has been a pleasant surprise. Third year coach Mark Mazzoleini has two goaltenders working for him this year. Junior Trevor Prior has helped Miami to their 6-1-0 start by going 3-0-0, with a 0.80 GAA, and a .957 save percentage. Amazing numbers for the youngster. The other half of the goaltending duo is University of Illinois-Chicago junior transfer, Adam Lord. Lord has gone 3-1-0, with a 2.51 GAA, and an .892 save percentage.

On offense, sophomore Randy Robitaille leads the CCHA in scoring with six goals and four assists, and if you count the two games against Windsor, he has six goals and nine assists. Junior Adam Copeland has also gotten off to a hot start with three goals and six assists.

St. Lawrence got a rude awakening to the 1996-97 season, being swept by St. Cloud in Minnesota. Their offense was shut down pretty well, only scoring two goals on each evening. Paul DiFrancesco only got on the board once, an assist on a power play goal in game two.

On the other hand, some freshmen showed a lot of promise. Jason Windle had two assists, and Alex Gordon scored a goal. St. Lawrence must have more offense this weekend. Jon Bracco and Eric Heffler split time this weekend in both games. With Clint Owen still suspended indefinitely, they get the call again this weekend. Bracco was not spectacular allowing all nine goals on the weekend on 43 shots.

Vermont played powerhouse Boston University on Saturday and came out of Walter Brown with a 4-2 victory. It is safe to say that Vermont can now be labeled a powerhouse as well. The line of J.C. Ruid, Eric Perrin and Martin St. Louis clicked again as they combined for a total of eight points (St. Louis 0-3-3, Ruid 1-1-2 Perrin 1-2-3). Depth for the Catamounts continued to show as B.J. Kilbourne scored the fourth UVM goal. Tim Thomas withstood a third period burst from the Terriers to help the win. UVM is a team to be reckoned with.

PICKS: LSSU at SLU: Both teams are looking to get on track. You usually see some low-scoring affairs at Appleton. With both teams looking to get going, this should be a real tight and well-played game. SLU 3, LSSU 3

MIA at UVM: Can Miami sustain their start? They run into a tough team, UVM, the number two team in the Around the Rinks/USCHO Poll this week. UVM continues near the top challenging for number one. UVM 6, MIAMI 4

LSSU at UVM: UVM stays unbeaten on the season behind scoring and magnificent goaltending from Tim Thomas. UVM 6, LSSU 3

MIA at SLU: Miami continues to win the close ones. They do it again at Appleton and leave the Saints winless. MIA 4, SLU 3

DENVER (1-3-0) at CLARKSON (2-0-0) Friday, 7 p.m., Saturday 7:30 p.m., Cheel Arena, Potsdam, NY

The two teams meet again, this time in Potsdam, NY. Last year in Denver, the Pioneers swept the two games, 4-2 and 4-3 in overtime. Can the Golden Knights take revenge from last year?

The Pioneers start the season 1-3-0, getting thier first win of the season last Saturday at home against Wisconsin 3-2. But two losses to North Dakota and a trouncing by Wisconsin on Friday lead Pioneer fans to wonder what has happened. Goaltending seems to be a problem as Jim Mullin was pulled on Friday. While Anti Laaksonen and Anders Bjork have contributed, folks such as Erik Ansersson and Petri Gunther must start to score.

Clarkson has been idle since trouncing Team Poland last Wednesday. They should be ready for this rematch. Todd White was solid against Ohio State, as was Dan Murphy. J.F. Houle, Mikko Olilla, Nicholas Windsor, and Guillaume Beese started to contribute early as well. Clarkson may be the only team that can go toe to toe with Vermont this year, and they are out to prove that they are a powerhouse as well.

PICK: A Clarkson sweep. 5-2 and 6-3

ARMY (3-2-0) at DARTMOUTH (0-0-0) Friday, 7:30 p.m., Thompson Arena, Hanover, NH ARMY (3-2-0) at RENSSELEAR POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (1-1-0) Saturday, 7 p.m., Houston Fieldhouse, Troy, NY

Army travels to take on a pair of ECAC teams, and hope to continue thier winning streak. Army sits at 3-2-0, and swept a pair of games from Mount Allison this past weekend, 5-4 and 5-2.

Daryl Chamberlin is as good as they get in goal, as he notched nine shutouts last season. He also led them to a 6-4 victory over Minnesota-Duluth, the ninth ranked team in the latest Around the Rinks/USCHO Poll. Scoring should come from Joe Sharrock and Bill Morrison. Morrison had a career game against RPI two years ago with a hat trick.

Dartmouth defeated Ottawa last Sunday, generating 68 shots on goal. Jon Sturgis provided the dramatic flair as he brought Dartmouth back in the third with two goals. All four Big Green goalies played in the game, but expect Scott Baker to get the nod over Ben Heller against the Cadets. Curtis Wilgosh, Darren Wercinski, and David Whitworth should provide more scoring.

RPI comes off a win over Northeastern last weekend, as Eric Healey, Mark Murphy and Alain St. Hilaire had a spectacular game. Scott Prekaski got his first career start, and after a shaky first period settled down and shutout the Huskies the rest of the way. The question for RPI coach Dan Fridgen is who gets the start in goal against the Cadets? Most likely it will be Joel Laing who had a strong performance against Boston University.

PICKS: ARMY at DARTMOUTH: There’s potential for a lot of firepower with the Big Green. Army also has that potential, and don’t forget about Chamberlin in the nets for the Cadets. Dartmouth 5, Army 4

ARMY at RPI: RPI looks for revenge after Army has taken them twice in the last two years. They will get it this year. RPI 6, Army 3

MERRIMACK (0-2-0) and PROVIDENCE (3-0-0) at COLGATE (1-1-0)

Friday, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 7 p.m., Starr Rink, Hamilton, NY

PROVIDENCE (3-0-0) and MERRIMACK (0-2-0) at UNION (0-1-0) Friday, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 7 p.m., Achilles Rink, Schenectady, NY

Some more ECAC-Hockey East matchups in New York State this week.

Merrimack opened their season this past weekend with a pair of Hockey East games against Providence, and were promptly swept by Dan Dennis and the Friars. The scoring was not there, but the tough defense and goaltending can be held accountable. They face two more tough goalies this weekend.

Providence has been impressive. Goalie Dan Dennis shutout Merrimack and also allowed only two goals against the Warriors in game one. Providence is now ranked 10th in the Around The Rinks/USCHO Poll, and second year coach Paul Pooley is primed for another strong season. Team play is where the Friars find their strength and it should be there this weekend.

Union played a tough game against UNH in Durham last weekend, and surprised many despite the loss. Their defense was especially strong, most notably Trevor Koenig in goal. Union still has to improve their offensive capabilities to make a move, but that will come. Their defense will hope to hold them in games this season, and it was evident that they were up to the challenge at UNH.

Colgate lost a heartbreaker to Maine, and then came back and beat UNH in overtime. All-American candidate Mike Harder is off to a good start with two goals and two assists. Tim Loftsgard also had two goals on the weekend. Dan Brenzavich made 28 and 23 saves respectively against Maine and New Hampshire.

PICKS:

MERRIMACK at COLGATE: Expect Shep Harder to start against the Warriors. The Red Raiders have mighty offensive talent, and the Warriors hope to stop them. One advantage that Merrimack might have playing on the road: Starr Rink is almost as cold as the Volpe. Colgate 6, Merrimack 2

PROVIDENCE at UNION: You might see a backup goalie start for the Friars. Bob Kane perhaps? Leeor Shtrom should see the start after Koenig started the first game. Union’s defense must be strong for all four of Providence’s lines. If not, it’s a long night. Providence 4, Union 2

MERRIMACK at UNION: This should be a battle of who gets the best chances and capitalizes. Union must play defense again, and Merrimack must continue to get 30+ shots on goal. This is a close one. Merrimack 3, Union 2

PROVIDENCE at COLGATE: This should be a good one. Dan Brenzavich needs to be solid, and the Red Raider defense must not show thier inexperience. The Friars must rotate lines, and continually attack. Colgate 5, Providence 3

AIR FORCE (0-2-0) at PRINCETON (0-0-0) Friday, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 7 p.m., Hobey Baker Rink, Princeton, NY

What can you say about the Falcons? They are arguably the worst Division I team in the NCAA. Last season they were, and this season started with the Academy getting swept by Division III Wisconsin-River Falls. In fact they were shutout 3-0 in game one, and lost 6-4 in game two. Can they beat a Division I opponent this year?

Princeton lost a lot of players who were the heart and soul of their team. James Konte has graduated, and one expects to see Erasmo Saltarelli in the nets. J.P. O’Connor returns after a year off, but leading scorer Jonathan Kelley is gone. Defense is also at a huge loss as Barrington Miller, Jason Smith, and Dan Brown are gone. At least Princeton has an easy start to the season.

PICK: Princeton in a sweep, 6-1, 5-0

WATERLOO at CORNELL (0-0-0) Saturday, 7 p.m., Lynah Rink, Ithaca, NY

Cornell starts it rolling with exhibition number two. They beat up on Team Poland, and hope to do the same to Waterloo. Vinnie Auger looks healthy for the first time since his freshman year. If he is, watch out. Matt Cooney will be the guts of this team. Jason Elliot will get it going, but expect others to rotate in goal.

Not much of a chance for the visitors from Canada.

PICK: Cornell 8 Waterloo 1

TEAM POLAND (winless in North America) at YALE (0-0-0) Saturday, 7 p.m., Ingalls Rink, New Haven, CT

Team Poland is a mystery. They get the last place team in the ECAC. This should mean that they have a chance right? Wrong.

Yale will start to figure out who will score for them. Who will it be? It is still a puzzle. Rotation of goalies between Alex Westlund and Dan Choquette to start of the season for the Bulldogs.

This should be the closest game for the Poles. Or maybe not.

PICK: Yale 4 Poland 2

ECAC League action full force next weekend as all 12 teams get underway with action. Next week we preview:

RPI/Union at Vermont/Dartmouth Cornell/Colgate at Brown/Harvard Princeton/Yale at Clarkson/St. Lawrence

All teams switch partners from Friday night on Saturday night.

Plus we take a look at RPI at UMass-Lowell on November 13.

Copyright 1996 Jayson Moy . All Rights Reserved.

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What’s He Gonna Do For An Encore?

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As a kid he dreamed of playing like Gretzky. At prep school they called him the next Craig Janney. Now he’s making a name for himself at Boston College.

Marty Reasoner ran away with the Hockey East Rookie of the Year award last year after being named Rookie of the Week nine times and Rookie of the Month four times, both records.

“I was excited about it,” said Reasoner. “It was a nice honor to have. It topped off a pretty good year.”

Reasoner’s “pretty good year” included individual totals of 45 points on 16 goals and 29 assists. It also included his role in elevating Boston College from next to last in league standings to only one point out of fourth place.

The accolades have since continued. This summer the St. Louis Blues selected Reasoner on the first round with the 14th overall pick. More recently, the league selected him as the only sophomore on its preseason All Hockey East team.

The Road to Chestnut Hill

Although it now seems like Reasoner was always destined to be the marquee player at Conte Forum, his route to Boston College required a few chance redirections.

The world renowned Pee Wee tournament held at La Colisee in Quebec heads that list. “That’s how I got pushed east. I played in Rochester, [New York] while growing up, but when I was thirteen or fourteen I went to the tournament in Quebec and hooked up with some kids from Boston.”

The friendships clicked. That summer he played in more tournaments with his Boston friends. Over time they all began to look at the same prep schools.

Reasoner also considered going major junior. “When I was about fifteen years old, I had ideas about going major junior. But playing in [Rochester], I wasn’t seen too much by the major junior teams and got passed by in their draft. They didn’t seem interested, so I just decided to go to prep school.”

The major junior teams changed their tune after seeing him at Deerfield Academy, but by then it was too late. “There were a lot of people once I was at prep school that told me to go to major junior, but I had already started on my way [to college] and I was going to keep going in that direction.”

After two All New England years at Deerfield, Reasoner was a highly sought after recruit. “My decision came down to BC and Michigan,” said Reasoner. “The things that made me decide on BC were the location — I liked Boston and the area — and the team. I knew I would be able to step in and contribute right away. I had a lot of confidence that Jerry York would help the team succeed in the future.”

York had returned to his alma mater where he’d been a first team All American in the sixties. The Eagles had hit rock bottom before hiring him, enduring first an embarrassing scholarship scandal and then an abortive hiring of Mike Milbury from the Bruins.

Adding insult to injury, the team sank to new depths in the standings. BC had finished in first place six out of the first seven years of Hockey East’s existence. But only the league’s addition of a new team, UMass Amherst, kept the Eagles out of last place in 1994-95.

At first glance, Boston College hardly seemed the logical destination for one of the top recruits in the country.

“What made me feel comfortable was how Coach York had handled the whole situation,” Reasoner said. “I was confident that he had resolved everything and that he was looking forward to the future and that he was going to bring the BC program back to where it was in the early part of the decade.

“It was a decision a lot like the one I made to go to Deerfield. I went to Deerfield when the team was losing a lot of seniors and I knew I was going to be able to play a lot. BC was in the same situation. They were losing a lot of seniors and I knew I was going to be able to come in and contribute right away. For me, I’ve always benefited the most when I could play a lot and learn by just playing and trying to do my best against the best players. I think it’s worked out.”

The League’s Top Rookie

The Eagles began poorly with a 2-7-1 record. Coming from Deerfield where he’d lost only five games in two years, the losses stung. “It was real hard to take,” Reasoner said. “It was one of the first times I’d [lost a lot of games] in a while.

“I think our start was tough because we were a young team and a team that wasn’t really too sure of itself. I think that as the season went along we became more confident in each other and ourselves as a team. We started to play really well from about the midpoint of the season.”

Not coincidentally, the Eagles began to win when Coach York combined Reasoner and David Hymovitz for good after the 2-7-1 start. Reasoner had played with a variety of linemates but he and Hymovitz formed the perfect playmaker-sniper combination.

“I think we complemented each other really well,” said Reasoner. “He was a great college player and had a great college career. It was fun to play with him. It just took us a while to get used to each other and from there on we just took off.”

In late December Reasoner left the Eagles for two games to play in the World Junior Tournament. Many fans expressed disappointment with Team USA’s fifth place finish, but Reasoner saw things differently.

“In that type of tournament it’s so close between a fifth place [finish] and being in the medal round and maybe finishing in third or second place…. A few bounces here or there and we’re in the final four and have a shot at the gold…. A lot of people like to say we had a terrible tournament, but I guess I’m more one to defend our team.”

Individually, Reasoner excelled. In six games for Team USA he scored three goals and added two assists. His coaches named him one of the team’s Top Three Players. “It was one of the best experiences I’ve had with hockey,” he remembered. “Just being able to play against the best guys in the world helped me as a player and gave me that much more confidence in my game.”

That confidence radiated when he returned to BC. After his return the Eagles finished 10-5-1 down the stretch. “More than anything else we believed in ourselves and believed that we could beat anyone on any given night. I think early in the season that might have been one of our problems. We didn’t have that confidence that we had late in the year.”

Heading into the playoffs, many considered the fifth place Eagles favorites over a Providence Friars team that had finished only a point ahead of them. The Friars limped into the playoffs, their strong start and weak finish an exact opposite of the Eagles’ season.

However, appearances and momentum proved deceiving. Key Friar players who had been out due to injury returned to bolster Providence’s suffocating defense.

“They played us perfectly,” said Reasoner. “They just frustrated us. We really couldn’t do anything offensively and they capitalized on all their power-play opportunities and we didn’t. They really worked hard and got it done both nights.”

Providence swept BC before also beating Boston University and Maine to take the Hockey East Championship and a berth in the NCAA tournament.

Looking to the Future

Then the NHL came knocking.

St. Louis selected him on the first round, setting up a potential future pairing of Reasoner and a guy named Brett Hull.

“Obviously after watching Brett Hull play in the World Cup, I wouldn’t mind playing with him at all,” said Reasoner, laughing. “But that’s something I can only dream about right now.”

In the meantime, he’d like to improve some parts of his game. “This year I’d like to shoot the puck better and score a little more.” He also worked four days a week in the offseason with Strength and Conditioning Coach Greg Finnegan.

With the league’s top recruiting class this past year and an impressive list of verbal commitments already lined up for next year, the Eagles appear destined for greatness. Just how great, however, hangs on whether Reasoner stays for a run at a national title or leaves early for the NHL.

Will he go or will he stay?

“I really have no idea right now,” he said. “I guess I’ll just have to take it year by year and at the end of the season we’ll see what happens. If the offer presents itself and it’s something I can’t pass up, then I may have to think about it. But as of right now I’m playing for BC and I’m going to give them everything I have.”

This year, after opening with back to back road losses to sixth ranked Bowling Green, BC stood deadlocked at 3-3 in a “must win” game against seventh ranked Michigan State. Reasoner, who prefers to display leadership with his actions rather than his words, let his stick do the talking with a breakaway pass that Blake Bellefeuille converted for the winning goal.

The raucous crowd of 4,338 erupted.

You can bet it won’t be the last time Marty Reasoner makes them roar.

This Week in the WCHA: November 1, 1996

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After a couple of wild weekends of WCHA play, only one team remains undefeated; it looks like the race for the MacNaughton Cup will take the entire year to decide.

And that’s great for fans, because each weekend of play will be important. So players, coaches and teams will have to be at the top of their game to win and keep up.

North Dakota, the lone unbeaten team, will host Northern Michigan this weekend. In other games Michigan Tech goes to Alaska-Anchorage, St. Cloud State travels to Colorado College and Minnesota visits traditional rivals Wisconsin. In a non-conference series, Denver hits the road for a pair of games at Clarkson.

Here’s a look at each of the series.

Northern Michigan (2-3-1 overall, 2-2-0 WCHA) at North Dakota (4-0-0 overall, 4-0-0 WCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:35 p.m. CT, Engelstad Arena, Grand Forks, ND

North Dakota will try to keep its perfect record intact as they host Northern Michigan in a two-game series.

The Fighting Sioux are at home, where they topped Denver twice two weeks ago. Playing in front of their own fans will be a plus this weekend. Curtis Murphy and Peter Armburst each scored twice in Friday’s win at Michigan Tech, and Dave Hoogsteen had two goals in Saturday’s one-goal win. Key to the wins was that UND allowed MTU just 20 shots on Friday and 27 shots on Saturday. The Fighting Sioux are playing well defensively and that’s what it takes to win consistently.

"Our 4-0 start is especially nice after losing some fine players from last year’s team," coach Dean Blais said on Tuesday. "Right now we are scoring goals and playing well with a young team. I don’t know what to expect from Northern, since they are playing up to 10 freshmen. But they were able to beat CC, which is quite an accomplishment."

Blais likes the way his team is playing. "We are going in the right direction. The kids are playing good hockey. In my first year we fought for a spot in the middle of the pack, but now a team goal is to finish in the top five and get home ice in the first round of the playoffs. Anything after that is a bonus. I don’t think we have enough returning to win the WCHA, but with some of the results already in, it will be a wild, wild year.

"We sold out both games of the Denver series and it’s been quite a while since we’ve done that. There’s a lot of enthusiasm back in Grand Forks and having a 4-0 record adds to that excitement."

The Wildcats split at home against Colorado College last weekend and have the difficult task of going to Grand Forks where teams haven’t had much success this year. John Coyle and Tyson Holly scored their first collegiate goals in Friday’s win, while the Wildcats were outshot 29-26. Holly scored again on Saturday but it wasn’t enough. NMU allowed 46 shots on goal on Saturday, and they can’t afford to do that this weekend.

ELMO Picks: UND wins both, 4-1 and 5-2.

Michigan Tech (4-3-0 overall, 1-3-0 WCHA) at Alaska-Anchorage (2-2-0 overall, 0-2-0 WCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:05 p.m. AT, Sullivan Arena, Anchorage, AK

This series is important to both teams: Michigan Tech wants to get back to winning ways, and Alaska-Anchorage needs some good efforts to help them reach some team goals.

Michigan Tech has had a good start, but must bounce back after losing twice to North Dakota. Kyle Peterson had a pair of goals last weekend but goalie Luciano Cavaggio had to make 38 saves on Saturday. That’s too many shots on goal for a team to win consistently. Look for the Huskies to improve in that category this weekend. If they can, they’ll enjoy the results.

The Seawolves lost a 5-0 decision to the Canadian national team in their last outing and were idle last weekend. Coach Dean Talafous will continue his disciplined style of play and team defense concept. The Seawolves will win some this year, but will need to hold teams to about 20 shots a game. Against Michigan Tech this weekend, that could be a problem.

ELMO Picks: MTU sweeps, 5-1 and 6-2.

St. Cloud State (3-1-0 overall, 1-1-0 WCHA) at Colorado College (2-2-0 overall, 2-2-0 WCHA) Friday, 7:35 p.m. MT, Saturday, 2:05 p.m. MT, Cadet Ice Arena, Air Force Academy, CO

Colorado College and St. Cloud State will both try to get over the .500 mark in WCHA play in this series.

For CC, Brian Swanson (3-2–5) is leading the way; Darren Clark and Cam Kryway are the only other Tigers with more than one goal this year (two apiece). Getting offensive production was a main concern for coach Don Lucia, and that hasn’t changed. Judd Lambert has been solid in goal with a 2.51 goals-against average and a .901 save percentage.

St. Cloud State has relied on Matt Cullen and Sacha Molin for scoring this year. Cullen (1-5–6) leads in scoring, but Molin isn’t far behind (4-1–5). Goalies Tim Lideen (2-0-0, 1.98 GAA) and Brian Leitza (1-1-0, 2.02 GAA, .927 SV%) have provided strong work in net.

ELMO Picks: CC takes both games, 4-1 and 5-1.

Minnesota (2-2-0 overall, 2-2-0 WCHA) at Wisconsin (2-2-0 overall, 2-2-0 WCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:05 p.m. CT, Dane County Coliseum, Madison, WI

Here are two more teams hoping to get their heads above water in league play. This is always a classic matchup, the first half of the annual "Border Battle."

Minnesota has coach Doug Woog back behind the bench after he served his one-week suspension. But Woog’s presence wouldn’t have mattered last weekend, when the Gophers split at Minnesota-Duluth — Minnesota was seriously outplayed on Friday, but came back strong the next evening. The Gophers must put a full game together to win. Sometimes they get plenty of scoring, other times good goaltending and defensive play. So far this year, they haven’t had it all at once. Goalie Steve DeBus needs to be solid this weekend and team defense must be part of the plan. There’s talk that the injured Reggie Berg may be back in the lineup, and that’s nothing but good news for the Gophers.

Coach Jeff Sauer is still looking for win No. 367, which would tie him with Bob Johnson for the all-time lead at Madison. Goalie Kirk Daubenspeck will have to be sharp against the Gopher’s snipers, but if there’s one goalie who can come up with a big game every night, it’s the Badgers’ senior netminder. Last year, the Badgers swept the Gophers in Madison; that’s the goal again this year.

ELMO Picks: Friday UM 4, UW 3. Saturday UW 5, UM 4

Denver (1-3-0 overall, 1-3-0 WCHA) at Clarkson (2-0-0 overall, 0-0-0 ECAC) Friday-Saturday, 7:35 p.m. ET, Cheel Arena, Potsdam, NY

The Pioneers leave WCHA play this weekend after splitting at home against Wisconsin (an 8-3 loss and a 3-2 win).

The Pioneers have been up-and-down so far; take a look at last weekend for a prime example. Coach George Gwozdecky will try to get his team untracked in this non-conference series. Maybe a trip away from home will be the answer. Sometimes, teams just perform better on the road, where players can concentrate on the task at hand, free of the distractions which accompany home games. In any case, the Pioneers need a solid weekend, since they have a home-and-home series with Colorado College upcoming.

The Golden Knights opened two weekends ago and topped Ohio State twice (7-4, 5-2). Denver will give them more to be concerned about. They finished in a solid second place in the preseason coaches poll, behind Vermont and ahead of Harvard. There are six seniors and eight juniors to lead the way, which should make for a solid season.

ELMO Picks: A Denver sweep, 6-2 and 4-3.

Next Week in the WCHA Friday, Nov. 8 Colorado College at Denver North Dakota at Minnesota Minnesota-Duluth at St. Cloud State Wisconsin at Northern Michigan Saturday, Nov. 9 North Dakota at Minnesota Minnesota-Duluth at St. Cloud State Wisconsin at Northern Michigan Sunday, Nov. 10 Denver at Colorado College

Copyright 1996 Jim Thies . All Rights Reserved.

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This Week in Hockey East: November 1, 1996

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Rumors of the demise of Hockey East have been greatly exaggerated.

The league won two of three games against top ten teams last week while splitting four other nonconference clashes. Boston University holds down the number four spot in the rankings while Providence moves up to 10th.

This week features three home-and-home series, Providence and Merrimack acting as travel partners against Colgate and Union, and Maine hosting Division II national champion University of Alabama-Huntsville.

Last week’s record in picks: 7-4 Season’s record in picks: 13-5

UMass-Amherst (1-1-0) vs. Boston University (1-1-0) Friday, 7 p.m., Walter Brown Arena, Boston, MA NESN Saturday, 7 p.m., Mullins Center, Amherst, MA

Last week BU lost the title Beast of the East to Vermont 4-2.

"We’re not playing really well offensively," said Jack Parker. "We have a lot of work to do. But in general I like my team."

Parker singled out Chris Drury and Mike Sylvia as the most effective forwards and also complimented rookies Tom Poti, Dan LaCouture, and Greg Quebec. However, Parker added, "I was disappointed in a couple of guys we depend on who absolutely disappeared. That will have to be addressed."

Terrier practices this week could focus on the power play, which proved pivotal against UVM. It will take time before BU smoothly integrates the replacements for Jay Pandolfo, Mike Grier, and Chris O’Sullivan.

Tom Noble and Michel Larocque should split netminding duties this weekend.

UMass-Amherst split a home-and-home series with UMass-Lowell, dropping the opener 5-2 on the road before winning 4-2 back in Amherst.

"We had some first game jitters, " said coach Joe Mallen. "Give UMass-Lowell credit, they played their game in their rink with its small ice surface. The opposite happened the next night. We played our game on the larger surface at the Mullins Center."

Mallen considered Chris Fawcett and Dean Stork the unsung heroes of the weekend. Fawcett, one of the fastest Minutemen, picked up a goal and then set up another on a give-and-go with Dan Juden in the first game. He then added another goal in the home opener.

Stork played his first official game after sitting out last year with eligibility problems with the NCAA Clearinghouse. He brings not only his 6-3, 210 pounds, but also reportedly great skating ability to the Minuteman blue line. Stork picked up his first assist over the weekend.

"We have to stop Drury and Bates," said Mallen. "It’s important that we play good defense and stay out of the box."

Revenge could play a large role in this matchup. The Minutemen ended last season with a 14-1 humiliation at the hands of BU. Look for 7,000 plus fans in Amherst to almost make the difference.

PICK: BU 5-2 on Friday and 3-2 on Saturday.

UMass-Lowell (1-1-0) vs. Boston College (1-2-0)

Friday, 7 p.m., Conte Forum, Chestnut Hill, MA Saturday, 7 p.m., Tully Forum, Lowell, MA WNDS-TV50

Boston College knocked off seventh-ranked Michigan State last week with a Blake Bellefeuille breakaway goal with only 22 seconds left.

"Bellefeuille had a tremendous game," said coach Jerry York. Bellefeuille is one of four 18-year old freshmen on the Eagles. "At that age level, their upside is tremendous."

York juggled the lines prior to the game, placing Bellefeuille on the top line with Marty Reasoner and Andy Powers. Jeff Farkas moved from wing on Reasoner’s line to instead center the second line with Matt Mulhern and Brian Callahan.

Ryan Mittleman caught the ire of the coaching staff for his poor play against Bowling Green to open the season. As a result, the forward lost his spot on the fourth line to Tony Hutchins, a freshman out of Lawrence Academy. A gifted scorer who tallied 23 points last year, Mittleman will have to work his way back into the lineup.

Although the power play is still oh-for-the-season (0 for 18), York saw positive signs in the Michigan State game. "I was encouraged by our power play despite our not scoring goals. I thought we moved the puck well, especially in the third period."

Although Greg Taylor was spectacular in the net against Michigan State, he and Mike Correia will likely split goaltending duties in this series. "Mike Correia played exceptionally well against Bowling Green. We’re going to get him in our lineup this year," said York.

UMass-Lowell opened with a split against UMass-Amherst.

"I’m very pleased with our progress," said coach Tim Whitehead. "The first night [win] was a great night, obviously. And I could see some real positives in the second game too, especially the way we worked until the last whistle. We didn’t opt for excuses. I was very happy with our attitude and work ethic."

Looking ahead to BC, Whitehead said, "This weekend should be a good challenge. Obviously they are a very good team."

Martin Fillion completes his suspension for breaking team rules by sitting out this weekend. Scott Fankhouser tended the net both games last weekend. Whitehead was noncommittal about which dufflebag he’d use this weekend, but look for Fankhouser to start on Friday, with his performance dictating whether he again gets the nod or if Craig Lindsay takes his place.

PICK: Boston College 5-2 on Friday, and 4-3 on Saturday.

New Hampshire (1-2-0) vs. Northeastern (1-1-0) Friday, 7 p.m., Matthews Arena, Boston, MA Saturday, 7 p.m., Whittemore Center, Durham, NH

New Hampshire edged past Union, a lightly regarded ECAC team, 3-2, before losing to Colgate 6-5 in overtime. According to coach Dick Umile, "It was ironic. On Friday we didn’t play well as a team and we won. Then on Saturday we played well, but we lost.

"We still weren’t opportunistic enough against Colgate, though. We should have had seven or eight goals. Unfortunately, we gave up the game-tying goal in the last minute after they pulled their goalie, and then they beat us in overtime."

Although some reports indicated a weak performance in goal by Brian LaRochelle, Umile deflected that assessment. "It really hurt us to lose both Tim Murray and Eric Fitzgerald on defense." The two are the Wildcats only senior blueliners, not to mention their most reliable pairing. "We had to play the freshmen defensemen a lot, and they made some freshmen mistakes."

Umile hopes to get one of his senior blueliners back this weekend. Fitzgerald looks more probable than Murray, but Murray planned to try skating with a brace on around midweek.

Despite the slow start and the injuries, Umile remained optimistic. "I’m positive we’ll be a good team. We just haven’t put it together yet."

Bruce Crowder’s rookie-laden lineup got out of the chute slowly in their game against Rennselaer and lost 4-3 before shocking seventh-ranked Michigan State 6-5.

"We got some great play from some of our freshmen which, as far as this coaching staff is concerned, is very encouraging," said Crowder. Goalie Marc Robitaille, Roger Holeczy (two goals), Billy Newson (game-winning goal), and defenseman Brian Addesa led the way among the eight Husky freshmen in the lineup.

Crowder noted some of the areas he’d like to see improved. "You need to learn how to play the score. There’s no use when you’re up by two goals [late in the game] trying to beat somebody at the offensive blue line one-on-one. Get it deep and make them come 200 feet. But those are the little things we’re trying to work out as the year goes by."

Justin Kearns, who scored only seven goals last year, already has three in two games. He ties Holeczy for the team lead.

Injuries to upperclassmen have shaved paper-thin Northeastern’s depth. Seniors Eric Petersen, Brad Klyn, and Mike Santonelli as well as junior Kevin Noke all missed the Michigan State game. Bob Sheehan then injured a shoulder during the game, exacerbating the problem. Santonelli and Noke are definite scratches for the upcoming weekend.

"Usually my practices are pretty intense and we work pretty hard," said Crowder, "but with our depth problems I can’t afford to do that now."

On paper, this should be a two-timing romp for New Hampshire. But Northeastern is playing over their heads while attrition is decimating UNH’s blue line, just like last year.

PICK: Northeastern 5-4 on Friday. New Hampshire 6-1 on Saturday.

Merrimack (0-2-0) at Colgate (1-1-0) Friday, 7 p.m., Starr Rink, Hamilton, New York

Here we go again?

Merrimack desperately needed a good start but dropped both ends of a home-and-home with Providence last week. They outshot the Friars 33 to 21 in the first game, only to be stymied by Friar goalie Dan Dennis 3-2. The Friars then turned that domination around in the second game, outshooting the Warriors 46-34 and winning 3-0. Martin Legault played very well in the second game, but in a losing effort.

"We just didn’t score any goals," said coach Ron Anderson. "We’re notoriously slow starters, but we also don’t want to make excuses."

When asked if he planned anything against Colgate’s exceptional Mike Harder, Anderson replied, "Our concern is us. We’ve got to find the right combinations. We’ve got to get the puck in the back of the net."

Anderson juggled lines late in the 3-0 loss. More adjustments can probably be expected.

Eric Thibeault tended the nets in the opening game last weekend; Martin Legault played in the rematch. Anderson will decide on his goaltenders later in the week.

Colgate pushed Maine to the brink before a third period rally rescued the Black Bears. New Hampshire was not so lucky. Despite their preseason selection as the number five team in the ECAC, they’ve started stronger than that and are a very real threat.

Forward Mike Harder stands head and shoulders above the other Red Raiders. Many experts consider him only a notch below his more celebrated conference-mates, Eric Perrin and Martin St. Louis. Harder picked up two goals in Colgate’s comeback win over UNH.

Goalie Dan Brenzavich provides Colgate’s other key to a win.

PICK: Colgate 4-1.

Providence (3-0-0) at Union (0-1-0)

Friday, 7 p.m., Lawrence H. Achilles Rink, Schenectady, NY

Providence fans loved last Saturday night. It began with the raising of their Hockey East Championship banner. It ended with them on top of league standings with a 2-0-0 league mark, courtesy of their sweep over Merrimack.

"Goaltending was important," said coach Paul Pooley. "Friday night they had more play than we did, but Dan Dennis made some key saves. Our specialty teams also came up big. We got a short-handed goal and two power-play goals."

The Friars defense received a scare when Hal Gill’s preliminary test for mononucleosis turned up positive. Gill, the only full-time returning blueliner from last year’s squad and a preseason All-Hockey East selection, sat out the Friday night game. He returned on Saturday when the test was determined to be a false positive.

Freshmen defensemen Jason Ialongo and Josh MacNevin played well both nights. This bodes extremely well for the team’s fortunes, since their loss of last year’s five defensemen constitutes their major roadblock to contending for the league title.

Dan Dennis earned Hockey East Player of the Week honors for his stellar performance, recording a 1.00 goals against average and a .970 save percentage in the series.

Going into last weekend Union College didn’t look like much competition for UNH. They finished 11th in the ECAC last year and were facing the nationally ranked Wildcats. The Skating Dutchmen, however, almost pulled off the upset, outshooting UNH 26-21 but coming up short in the only category that counts, 3-2.

Union’s top scorers from last year — Chris Ford (26 points), Brent Ozarowski (24), and Russ Monteith (17) — did not score against UNH, but picked up two assists. Senior John Sicinski (9 points last year) and newcomer Ryan Campbell accounted for the goals.

Goalie Trevor Koenig posted a 3.13 GAA and .911 save percentage last year. He allowed three goals on 21 shots against the Wildcats.

Union College trailed the rest of the ECAC in goal scoring last year and could muster only two against an injury-depleted UNH defense. Once Providence puts the defensive clamps on, Dutchmen fans may give their boys a standing O if they can even muster a shot on goal.

PICK: Providence 4-0.

University of Alabama-Huntsville (1-0-0) at Maine (2-1-0)

Friday, and Saturday 7 p.m., Alfond Arena, Orono, ME

The Black Bears needed three third-period goals to catch Colgate 4-3 last week. Coach Greg Cronin found fault with two specific aspects of his team’s play. "They bottled us up at times in our own zone. We’ve got to get better at moving it out of there.

"And our special teams was an abortion." The Black Bears gave up three power-play goals in only four Red Raider opportunities, while they could only ring up a single man-advantage tally themselves in six chances.

Although most fans instinctively write off a Division II opponent, Cronin does not share their casual dismissal. "I hate these type of games. You’re expected to win and win big. But they come up here totally enthusiastic about playing us and go at it with nothing to lose.

"We don’t know much about them. So we’re going to worry about our team, especially our specialty teams."

The University of Alabama-Huntsville is not just any Division II team. They are the D-II national champions, posting an undefeated 26-0-3 record last year. When they beat Penn State 15-0 to open this year’s season, they stretched their winning streak to 35 games.

The Charters graduated four of last year’s D-II All-Americans as well as five of their six defensemen. Returning players include honorable mention All-American Tony Guzzo (13 goals and 39 assists for 52 points), K.C. Schneider (16-8-24), Jamie Baby (8-14-22), and Eric Bilyeu (11-10-21).

Forward Ty Hartigan and defenseman Jim Alauria and Mark Motowski transferred to UAH from the deceased UIC program; fellow transfer defenseman Jason Mucciarone arrived from Elmira College.

UAH has shown in the past that they could steal a game or two from their D-I brethren. Three years ago they split a series with Merrimack; two years ago they beat Ohio State 4-3.

Can they do it again?

Don’t count on it. Maine is stronger than both of the D-I teams UAH beat. They could scare the potentially complacent Black Bears for two periods on Friday, but it will stop there.

PICK: Maine 5-3 and 5-0.

Providence (3-0-0) at Colgate (1-1-0) Saturday, 7 p.m., Starr Rink, Hamilton, New York

Paul Pooley talked about the Colgate matchup. "Mike Harder is a tremendous player. They’ve had a very effective power play and he’s certainly a big part of that. We’ll need to be disciplined and stay out of the box."

Both teams, covered in detail above, could be poised to rise above their middle-of-the-pack preseason projections.

PICK: Providence 3-2.

Merrimack (0-2-0) at Union (0-1-0)

Saturday, 7 p.m., Lawrence H. Achilles Rink, Schenectady, NY

If Merrimack loses to Colgate on Friday night, could this become a "must-win" game? The first weekend in November is ridiculously early for such designations, especially against a non-conference opponent. But a win here would be a huge shot in the arm for the Warriors. A loss would also be a shot, but somewhat lower.

Both teams are discussed above in previews of games against other teams.

PICK: Merrimack 2-1.

I am indebted to University of Alabama-Huntsville’s Dr. Tim Newman who provided me with a wealth of information. Without his assistance, the preview of UAH’s games with Maine would have been superficial at best.

Copyright 1996 Dave Hendrickson . All Rights Reserved.

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This Week in the CCHA: November 1, 1996

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Last week demonstrated several of the things which make consistent winning difficult in the CCHA. Again, vital early-season points were taken from Alaska by the visiting Wolverines, who didn’t take Fairbanks too lightly. Miami sought to distance itself from the bottom half of the league by taking hard-fought games from Notre Dame and Ferris State, to extend its unbeaten streak to five games.

Bowling Green made a case for itself as a contender, swiping three of four points from the floundering Lakers, to the dismay of both Lake Superior and Michigan State, which had a horrible ride out East. The Spartans came home broke, losing to both Boston College and Northeastern and consequently dropping out of this week’s Around the Rinks/USCHO poll.

Notre Dame found a goaltender as Matt Eisler stopped Ohio State cold, and Ferris suffered the Buckeyes’ frustration in a loss the following evening. All in all, an informed writer picked five — and lost five, raising his meager record to 12-10. This record will resemble those of several CCHA teams, before it is all said and done.

This week there are some intriguing matchups, led by the USCHO Game of the Week, Michigan at Michigan State. Also, Ohio State and WMU face off for two, MSU and Bowling Green reopen old wounds, and Michigan and Notre Dame battle it out in the "schools-wishing-their-football-teams-were-as-good-as-OSU Bowl". Finally, Miami and Lake State take trips to Vermont and St. Lawrence. Here’s my view of the upcoming action.

Ohio State (1-4-0, 1-1-0 CCHA) at Western Michigan (1-1-1, 0-1-1 CCHA) Friday, Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Lawson Arena, Kalamazoo, MI

Ohio State makes its first important road trip, desperately in need of juniors Dan Cousineau and Derek Beuselinck to produce leadership and scoring. Thus far, the two have four points between them. Sophomore Brandon LaFrance is in the same category, producing one point so far. The power play is an ugly twelve percent, and both goaltenders are giving up freshman goals that they can not afford.

Western is also in need of production from junior Steve Duke and senior Justin Cardwell, neither of whom has a goal yet. Sophomore Matt Barnes is 1-1-1, with a .920 save percentage, and could be the difference this weekend. The Bronco penalty-kill is off to a good start at 90 percent, which does not bode well for the Buckeyes.

Pick: Friday WMU 5, OSU 2; Saturday OSU 5, WMU 4

Bowling Green (6-0-0, 2-0-0 CCHA) at Michigan State (3-2-0, 2-0-0 CCHA) Friday, 7:00 p.m., Munn Ice Arena, East Lansing, MI

This could foreshadow the final weeks of the season, as Bowling Green looks to take the early lead for second place, with its 36 percent power play. The Falcons have found strong scoring so far, behind the play of seniors Curtis Fry (5-14–19) and Mike Johnson (11-6–17). Freshman Adam Edinger has shown he belongs, with three goals and four assists thus far. In net, both Savard and Petrie are 3-0.

Michigan State, on the other hand, needs this game to revive itself after a humiliating loss to Northeastern last weekend. junior Mike Watt leads the team with six goals, and junior goalie Chad Alban has a 2.14 GAA and a 3-1 record. He will have to play well this weekend.

Pick: BG 4, MSU 3

Michigan (5-0-0, 2-0-0 CCHA) at Notre Dame (2-1-1, 1-1-1 CCHA) Friday, 7:00 p.m., JACC, South Bend, IN

Michigan takes a strong offense into Notre Dame to face Matt Eisler and the Golden Domers. Senior John Madden is leading the team with six goals so far, followed by Junior Bill Muckalt with five. Marty Turco is a perfect 5-0, with a 2.44 GAA after five games.

Sorry, but Notre Dame does not have enough firepower to hold off Michigan yet. The penalty-kill could save them, with its 91 percent efficiency, but unless Eisler is up to it, that will not be enough.

Pick: Michigan 5, ND 2

Notre Dame (2-1-1, 1-1-1 CCHA) at Bowling Green (6-0-0, 2-0-0 CCHA) Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Bowling Green Ice Arena, Bowling Green, OH

Notre Dame will not fare much better on the road than they did last weekend. Expect Bowling Green to physically dominate Notre Dame as Miami did. Notre Dame freshman Ben Simon faces off against his former teammate-turned-Falcon Mike Jones for the first time.

Bowling Green is not going to lose many home games this season.

Pick: BG 5, ND 3

Michigan (5-0-0, 2-0-0 CCHA) at Michigan State (3-2-0, 2-0-0 CCHA) Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Munn Ice Arena, East Lansing, MI

Michigan and Marty Turco versus Michigan State and Chad Alban. This is what college hockey is all about. The problem for Michigan State is that Michigan has the depth that MSU lacks, especially on defense.

If Alban has a big weekend, he will spoil either BG or Michigan’s night, but the Spartans will have to keep their special teams working, as this will be a tough game. The home crowd will help.

Pick: MSU 4, UM 3

Miami University (6-1-0, 5-0-0 CCHA) at Vermont (2-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) Friday, 7:00 p.m., Gutterson Field House, Burlington, VT

Miami had a disastrous trip out East last year, but looks to change that with its goaltending this season. Adam Lord and Trevor Prior have been unbeatable in their regular starts so far, and this will be the first big test for one of them. They play behind a team scoring 4.43 goals a game so far, and only giving up two.

The penalty-kill is a solid 81 percent, and they will need it against Vermont. Vermont has more speed and skill, but toughness and depth I wonder about. Goaltending will be the key, as All-Everything Tim Thomas brings a .930 save percentage to the table. Eric Perrin and Martin St. Louis might find Miami’s defense more formidable than last year.

Pick: A draw — Miami 3, Vermont 3

Miami (6-1-0, 5-0-0 CCHA) at St. Lawrence (0-2-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Appleton Arena, Canton, NY

Miami will have plenty of firepower and physical toughness to handle St. Lawrence. Look for sophomore Randy Robitaille to continue his scoring streak, with 15 points in his first 7 games. St. Lawrence has a solid goaltending duo in Owen and Bracco, as well as strong forwards such as Paul DiFrancesco, who paced the team with 16 goals last season. Depth will be the difference between these two teams; Miami’s junior class is stacked.

Pick: Miami 4, SLU 2

Lake Superior (1-4-1, 0-2-0 CCHA) at St. Lawrence (0-2-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) Friday, 7:00 p.m., Appleton Arena, Canton, NY

Lake Superior is in desperate need of a lift, and this should provide it. A tuneup against St. Lawrence will help the Lakers find their scoring touch before their next big game. Senior Matt Alvey and junior Ted Laviolette need to produce for this to occur. Also, the power play is dreadful, converting only one gaol on 11 attempts.

St. Lawrence will need all it can muster in the net to stop the frustrated Lakers. Forwards Paul DiFrancesco and Scott Stevens must continue their strong play from last year.

Pick: LSSU 4, SLU 2

Lake Superior (1-4-1, 0-2-0 CCHA) at Vermont (2-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Gutterson Field House, Burlington, VT

Lake Superior is clearly not the team they were at the end of last season, and that team could not beat Vermont. This one will not either. The special-teams play of LSSU is suspect, and their depth cannot match Vermont’s quickness after the Lakers’ top two lines.

Look for another frustrating loss to build on, as Martin St. Louis and Eric Perrin continue to add to their scoring totals.

Pick: VT 5, LSSU 3

Ferris State (3-4-0, 0-3-0 CCHA) at Mankato State (1-3-0) Friday, 7:00 p.m., Mankato Civic Center, Mankato, MN

Ferris State needs a game like this to get back on track after a long road trip last weekend. The special teams need to work out the kinks, as neither the power play (one-for-11) nor the penalty kill (70 percent) has helped. The scoring has been spread around, though, which is a good sign. Six forwards have all scored three goals or more. Junior Jeff Blashilll (.800 SV%) will have to be stronger in net for his team.

Mankato is looking to find some scoring punch also, as it strives to become a future WCHA contender.

Pick: FSU 4, Mankato 3

Copyright 1996 Kirk Koennecke . All Rights Reserved.

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Gooning It Up

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For the record, let me say this: I am a hockey purist.

Now, the word “purist” means a lot of things. When a baseball fan says it, he means that he hates the DH and Astroturf. A football purist hates the forward pass, or something like that. There aren’t any basketball purists (apologies to Michael Jordan).

In hockey, though, we mean something different. A hockey purist likes to see guys get hit. This does not mean that we don’t like to see smooth skating and good wrist shots; but there’s an art to a solid check that is every bit as legitimate as a wraparound goal.

Which brings us to the first topic of discussion today: the goon. This majestic creature is an endangered species in North American hockey, his native habitat overrun by faster-moving, more graceful European skaters. But he can still be found in one place, at least: the penalty box. This is the goon’s favorite nesting area, and he visits it often.

The penalty in hockey serves two purposes, which are really at odds with one another. First, the penalty is just that: it punishes conduct outside the rules. But, strangely enough, it also legitimizes such conduct by writing it into the flow of the game. For example, suppose you’re a goon (work with me here, people). The opposing team’s top sniper has gotten by you, and is now one-on-one with your goalie. What do you do?

Easy. You haul him down. You get to go sit in the box for two minutes, and he gets to think about his glory denied. That’s a smart penalty, one taken for the good of the team. Nobody gets hurt, and the score doesn’t change, at least if your penalty-kill is any good. At any rate, that’s your job, especially when you’re a goon.

Let me clear something up, before the outraged comments start pouring in. When I say “goon,” I mean it in the affectionate way that best friends use when they insult one another to say hello. I’m going to call some guys goons in a few minutes, and that’s not a bad thing. Hockey needs goons. Coaches call these guys “physical players” or “enforcers,” which mean the same thing. But “goon” is a lot more fun to say over and over — try it. Besides, the title of this article reads a lot better than “Physical Playing It Up” would have.

One of the oft-held myths about the goon is that he has limited hockey skills — that he’s just out there to cross-check people and start fights. This is not true. To prove my point, let’s examine the CCHA scoring figures from last year. The following table lists the leading (overall) scorers among players averaging at least two penalty minutes per game:

Player, team               G     A   Pts    PIM
Jason Botterill, Mich     32    25    57    143
Brett Punchard, BGSU      20    32    52     75
Warren Luhning, Mich      20    32    52    123
Keith Aldridge, LSSU      14    36    50     88
Kelly Perrault, BGSU      14    32    46    101
Kyle Millar, WMU          19    20    39     84
Mike Peron, UIC           15    14    29     73
Tony Tuzzolino, MSU       12    17    29    120
Dan Boyle, Miami           7    20    27     70
Quinn Fair, BGSU           6    21    27     76

Pretty nice numbers, especially when you consider that Botterill, Luhning and Tuzzolino were the three most-penalized players in the CCHA last season. By the way, did you notice that NCAA champion Michigan has two of the top three on our list? Now let’s look at the “gentlemanly” players, those averaging less than one-half penalty minute per game:

Player, team             G    A   Pts   PIM

Kevin Hilton, Mich      10   51    61     8

Mike Hall, BGSU         23   22    45    16

Cody Bowtell, UAF       21   23    44     8

Chris Brooks, WMU       17   26    43    12

Mike York, MSU          12   27    39    20

Pat Williams, UAF        8   28    36    18

Gerald Tallaire, LSSU    9   21    30    18

Pierre Dufour, OSU       8   22    30    10

Jeff Trembecky, UAF     14   13    27    12

Dallas Ferguson, UAF     5   22    27    14

If we scan these two tables, we notice that the goon numbers are awfully similar to those of the gentlemen. In fact, adding up the scoring, the goons total 159-249–408, vs. 127-255–382 for the nice guys. Pretty close, indeed.
Now, when you’re a coach, you’d like to have a balance of strength and speed on your squad. Some teams lean one way and some the other, but you need a little of both if you’re going to succeed. So the question presents itself: can we find a relationship between team penalties and winning? Let us look…

Team	      CCHA Record   PIM (rk)   Opp (rk)  Diff

Lake Superior     22- 6-2    632 (4)    700 (3)    -68 

Michigan          22- 6-2    613 (5)    648 (6)    -35 

Michigan State    22- 7-1    579 (9)    660 (4)    -89 

Western Michigan  21- 6-3    733 (1)    727 (1)      6 

Bowling Green     18-11-1    570 (10)   581 (9)    -11 

Ferris State      10-17-3    606 (8)    605 (7)      1 

Miami (Ohio)       9-17-4    630 (6)    524 (10)   106 

Ohio State         8-17-5    609 (7)    594 (8)     15 

Alaska-Fairbanks   8-22-0    705 (2)    710 (2)     -5 

Notre Dame         6-20-4    689 (3)    659 (5)     30 

Illinois-Chicago   6-23-1    538 (11)   494 (11)    44

Some things are apparent from looking at this table. For instance, there is no clear relationship between a team’s success and the number of penalty minutes it takes (the “PMin” column). Western Michigan, the most-penalized team in the CCHA, was an NCAA tournament team, while the second-most penalized squad was lowly Alaska-Fairbanks.

On the other hand, Michigan State took very few penalties en route to a third-place finish (and a bid to the national tournament), while the now-defunct UIC squad came in last — both in penalty minutes and in the CCHA. Apparently, then, taking a lot of whistles was no barrier to success last year in the CCHA, and taking only a few was no help.

Nor is the opponents’ overall ranking any good. As before, we find teams high and low without any apparent pattern. However, examining the difference between the two penalty totals, we notice that, generally speaking, teams who took fewer penalties than their opponents ended up at the top of the league.

Even this relationship is not strong, though. In fact, the most striking thing in the data above is how closely a team’s total penalty minutes correlate with its opponents’ totals. For instance, Western Michigan not only was first in minutes against, but also first in opponents’ minutes. Similarly, UAF was second in both the “for” and “against” columns.

In fact, going down the list, we find that for nine of the 11 CCHA teams, penalties for and against correspond very nicely (the exceptions being Michigan State and Miami). This begs the question: why?

The knee-jerk response is to say something like this. “Well, obviously, when you come to play a physical team like Western Michigan, you’re lured into playing their game, and therefore Western’s opponents end up with lots of penalty minutes, just like Western themselves do.” And vice versa for low-penalty teams. The only problem with this line of reasoning is that it doesn’t make much sense. For example, when “physical” WMU plays “gentlemanly” UIC, what happens? Well, if you look at Western Michigan’s line up above, you’d say they must have played rough. If you look at UIC’s, they played nice.

So here’s what I think. The numbers above don’t tell us as much about the teams as they do about the officiating. Please allow me to elaborate: how many times have you seen a guy get high-sticked (or cross-checked, or tripped, or slashed) and retaliate, so that both guys end up in the box? Or, maybe one guy starts a fight. There’s a little scrum, and multiple players get to sit. Usually a nice even number, so nobody gets a power-play out of it.

This happens a lot, and when it does the home fans start screaming at the refs and chanting things about glasses and so forth. And rightly so, because sometimes an official just puts two guys in the box because he doesn’t know who started it. And that’s the whole problem; there’s only three guys to watch for this kind of stuff, and there’s six thousand up in the stands with loud voices and eagle vision.

What to do? I recommend sweeping changes in the NCAA officiating structure. We can begin by putting seventeen officials on the ice. This will not only improve the quality (and number) of calls, but will also dramatically increase fans’ enjoyment of refs getting hit with the puck or run into by the players. While this is just a start, I think it’s a good one.

Now if we could just get Jordan to lace up the skates …

This Week in Hockey East: October 25, 1996

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Hockey East took it on the chin last week, dropping four of its six games against the other three conferences.

CCHA power Michigan State and four ECAC teams prepare for battle with Hockey East this week. Providence and Merrimack, as well as UMass-Amherst and UMass-Lowell, open league play with home-and-home series.

One of the top games of the year features the number two and three ranked teams in the country, Vermont and Boston University, facing off at Walter Brown Arena.

Last week’s record in picks: 6-1 (not including exhibitions)

Vermont (1-0-0) at Boston University (1-0-0) Saturday, 7 p.m., Walter Brown Arena, Boston, MA

Who is The Beast of the East?

We will know by the end of Saturday night.

Boston University played just well enough to win against Rensselaer last week. "We played pretty well at times but fell into some defensive lapses," said coach Jack Parker. "We weren’t sharp." Parker singled out Shawn Bates, Chris Drury, Michel Larocque, and the freshmen for strong performances.

Bates was not expected to play due to a hip injury sustained in last Friday’s practice, but gave it the thumbs up after the pregame skate. Brendan Walsh, who was left home from the trip to attend to academic concerns, rejoins the team.

Walsh’s return likely means a repeat of the lines BU opened the season with against Minnesota: Bates centers freshman Dan Lacouture and Matt Wright; Drury is between Bill Pierce and Chris Heron; and Walsh centers Mike Sylvia and Albie O’Connell.

Tom Noble will be in the nets for the Terriers.

Parker wants to stay five-on-five against the Catamounts. "With their offensive strength and their power play proficiency, we’ll need to stay out of the box. We probably can’t shut down their first line, but we want to make sure they don’t kill us.

"The other thing we’ll have to do is go to their net and get the rebounds. [Tim] Thomas has shown he can stop the first shots. We’ll need to work for the rebounds and create traffic in front of the net to keep him from getting a good look at the puck."

In Vermont’s win over New Hampshire, they displayed more balanced scoring than last year, when almost all of their offensive production was generated by the Catamount top line of Eric Perrin, Martin St. Louis, and J.C. Ruid. In the win, the first three goals were scored by other forwards, although the third tally was a power play goal assisted by St. Louis and Perrin.

Tim Thomas excelled in the nets. Although that’s hardly news to Vermont followers, his importance to the Catamounts cannot be overstated.

Despite the comfortable victory margin, coach Mike Gilligan was unhappy with some of his team’s play. "There are some glaring changes that will need to be made in order to beat a solid BU team," said Gilligan. "We can’t always rely on Tim [Thomas]. We’re going to tighten up in the neutral zone. Our defensemen have to make some better decisions, as well.

"BU will get as many chances as UNH and they’ve got some kids who regularly put it in. That’s what scares me."

Look for Tim Thomas to be the difference in this game.

PICK: Vermont 4-3.

Michigan State (2-0-0) at Boston College (0-2-0)

Friday, 7 p.m., Conte Forum, Chestnut Hill, MA

Boston College returns home after a double-dip against sixth-ranked Bowling Green. Despite the losses, Coach Jerry York remains upbeat. "We played one of the top four or five teams in the country and showed some marked improvement in some areas over our play last year. We outshot and outchanced an excellent team in both games. Unfortunately, we were not as good on the special teams."

The Eagles power play, next-to-last in the league last year, buried them against the Falcons. For the weekend they went 0-for-13 while giving up two short-handed goals.

At first glance the penalty-killing unit also dragged BC down, giving up four goals in 13 Bowling Green power play opportunities. However, in their defense, they also scored two short-handed goals themselves, and two of the Falcon power-play goals were during five-on-three advantages.

The one brightest note for the Eagles was the offensive production of their heralded freshman class. Jeff Farkas, Blake Bellefeuille, and Mike Mottau scored the BC goals in the opening game. Farkas added an assist in the rematch.

Unfortunately, BC gets no respite. The seventh-ranked Michigan State Spartans await them. "Now we play another top ten team," said York. "But we benefit from scheduling such strong non-conference opponents. It makes us a better team. I feel last weekend was very rewarding for us. We played well and I feel very positive about this team."

Greg Taylor will be in the nets, after splitting chores with Mike Correia last weekend.

Although Michigan State lost leading scorer Anson Carter to graduation, they still return eight of their top 10 scorers from last year. Up front they distribute their scoring among: Mike Watt (17 goals, 22 assists for 39 points last season), Mike York (12-27–49), Sean Berens (12-25–37), Richard Keyes (14-14–28), and Steve Ferranti (12-14–26).

Spartan defensemen contribute significantly to the offense. Tony Tuzzolino (12-17–29), Chris Bogas (1-20–21), and Jeff Kozakowski (6-14–20) comprise the most offensively-active blueliners.

Junior Chad Alban (3.07 GAA, .876 save percentage) is a workhorse in the nets, accounting for all but two of the Michigan State decisions.

PICK: Michigan State 5-3.

Providence (1-0-0) at Merrimack (0-0-0)

Friday, 7 p.m., Volpe Complex, North Andover, MA Merrimack (0-0-0) at Providence (1-0-0)

Saturday, 7 p.m., Schneider Arena, Providence, RI

After opening this home-and-home series at Merrimack, Providence will raise their Hockey East championship banner on Saturday night. But coach Paul Pooley isn’t about to let his team rest on their laurels. "I don’t look at us as defending champs. Big deal. That has nothing to do our season right now…. We’re picked for fifth, or in some polls sixth, in our league and that’s right on. We’ve got a lot of work to do."

The Friars are led by All-Hockey East goaltender Dan Dennis, preseason All-Hockey East blueliner Hal Gill, and a first line of Mike Omicioli, Russ Guzior, and top recruit Fernando Pisani. Pisani, who set an Alberta Junior Hockey League record for playoff assists by a left winger last year, picked up where he left off, nabbing three assists against Army to open his collegiate career. Fellow rookie Jason Ialongo and junior Stefan Brannare both netted two goals.

Providence’s biggest question mark is on the blue line where they graduated five seniors last year. Pooley hopes to overcome that loss "with good goaltending and good team defense as opposed to relying on any one individual or any one set of players. We’ll have to play great team defense to be successful."

The matchup against Merrimack features two teams with similar styles, according to Pooley. "This will be a very, very good test for both teams. They both play hard. They both play good defense. It’ll be a war."

Merrimack coach Ron Anderson hopes his Warriors are ready for battle. "We’re notoriously slow starters," he said, "but we have to get off to a good start some time. If we do, that would set the stage for a strong season."

Goalie Martin Legault, an integral part of a strong Warrior campaign, twisted a knee in last weekend’s exhibition win over St. Francis Xavier. Although the injury is minor and Legault could probably start this weekend, Anderson remains wary of rushing him back too soon. The coaching staff is pleased with the play of backup Eric Thibeault and could feel by the weekend that he gives them the luxury of playing it safe with Legault. As of Tuesday, however, it was too soon to tell.

The first line of Rob Beck, Martin Laroche, and Cam Neely-impersonator John Jakopin appears primed for a huge season. What could surprise fans, though, is the second unit. Casey Kesselring appears fully recovered after an injury-prone 1995-96 campaign. He teams with Rejean Stringer and rookie sniper Sandy Cohen. Cohen scored on his first shot in last weekend’s exhibition, surely a mouth-watering omen for Warrior fans hungry for a winner.

Although celebrated rookie Jayson Philbin did not impress, fellow freshmen Andrew Fox, Chris Halecki, Joe Savioli, and Drew Hale appeared to be solid contributors.

Look for the home town fans to go home grumbling twice.

PICK: Providence 4-3 on Friday. Merrimack 3-2 on Saturday.

UMass-Amherst (0-0-0) at UMass-Lowell (0-0-0) WNDS-TV

Friday, 7 p.m., Tully Forum, Lowell, MA UMass-Lowell (0-0-0) at UMass-Amherst (0-0-0)

Saturday, 7 p.m., Mullins Center, Amherst, MA

The big story out of Lowell is that Martin Fillion must sit out this series and the next because of a disciplinary suspension. As of Tuesday, coach Tim Whitehead had not decided whether Scott Fankhouser or Craig Lindsay would open the series.

The River Hawks will field a young squad. Freshmen and sophomores comprise eight of the 12 forwards, four of the six defensemen, and one of the goalies.

As a result, Whitehead has set his expectations appropriately. "At this point of the season we’re looking more for effort than results. If we keep getting the effort, the results will take care of themselves."

Even so, Whitehead is excited about opening against sister school UMass-Amherst and competing for the Alumni Cup, given to the winner of the season’s series. "I like the rivalry we have with UMass-Amherst… I think it’s great. I’m glad it’s our opening game of the season."

UMass-Amherst coach Joe Mallen had more tepid praise for the competition between the two schools. "UMass-Lowell has been trying to build this into a rivalry, but within the league there are all kinds of rivalries being built as our program develops. However, the Alumni Cup is unique. We were lucky enough to win it last year and hope to do so again this year."

Rob Bonneau and Warren Norris lead the Minutemen up front. Brian Regan, a former league All-Rookie selection, tends the nets behind an experienced blue line corps.

"It should be an evenly matched series," said Mallen. "It will probably come down to special teams and experience."

PICK: UMass-Lowell 4-3 on Friday. On Saturday UMass-Amherst evens it 4-2.

Colgate (0-0-0) at Maine (1-1-0)

Friday, 7 p.m., Alfond Arena, Orono, ME

Forward Mike Harder, defenseman Jack McIntosh, and goalie Dan Brenzavich lead the Colgate Red Raiders. Last year Harder earned second-team All-ECAC honors for the second time in his three years. Going into this season with 159 career points, he needs another 54 to become the Colgate all-time scoring leader.

McIntosh and assistant captain Todd Murphy provide senior leadership on the blue line while trying to replace Brad Dexter.

On the other side of the ledger, Maine entered last weekend’s games against Michigan and Lake Superior State concerned about their defensive zone play. But against Michigan, that was the strongest part of the Black Bear game, according to coach Greg Cronin. "Shawn Mansoff, Leo Wlasow, and Alfie Michaud played very well," said Cronin. "Unfortunately, our offense was atrocious. I was disgusted by our lack of fire."

A Saturday night practice in Sault Ste. Marie brought the aggressive side out of the Black Bears the next day. "We did a good job of playing smashmouth offense against Lake State. And the power play that was non-existent against Michigan got us three goals.

"That was a long trip, " said Cronin. "It will be nice to play at home. We’ll need to build on our aggressive play against Lake State and pick up the team defense. I’m not happy giving up seven goals in two games."

Auntie Em, it’s good to be back home.

PICK: Maine 5-2.

Union (0-0-0) at New Hampshire (0-1-0)

Friday, 7 p.m., Whittemore Center, Durham, NH

UNH fell 5-1 to second-ranked Vermont last week but remains a top ten team.

Leading defenseman and captain Tim Murray injured a knee and is out for the weekend. His loss hurts deeply since the blue line remains a major question mark on the Wildcat squad. Erik Johnson, who had moved to forward for the Vermont game, moves back. Rookie Dan Enders who had assumed Johnson’s place, remains in the defensive rotation.

New Hampshire will need to capitalize on their chances better. They created numerous odd-man rushes, especially early in the game, but couldn’t convert. Coach Dick Umile said, "Our shooting was horrendous. We missed the net far too many times."

Union College finished 11th in the ECAC last year. Led by new head coach Stan Moore, the Skating Dutchmen hope to score more than in 1995-96, when they finished last in league scoring. Chris Ford (8-18–26), Brent Ozarowski (13-11–24), and Russ Monteith (6-11–17) led the scoring for Union last year. All three return.

The Dutchmen graduated their top two defensemen, but return both goalies, Trevor Koenig and Leeor Shtrom. Koenig, a junior, saw the majority of the action and posted a 3.13 goals-against-average and a .911 save percentage.

UNH will show why they’re top ten material.

PICK: New Hampshire 6-2.

Colgate (0-0-0) at New Hampshire (0-1-0)

Saturday, 7 p.m., Whittemore Center, Durham, NH

Both teams are described above in previews of games against other teams.

Although Colgate will put up more of a fight against New Hampshire than fellow ECAC member Union did, the Wildcats will still prevail.

PICK: New Hampshire 4-3.

Northeastern (0-0-0) at Rensselaer (0-1-0)

Friday, 7:30 p.m., Houston Fieldhouse, Troy, NY

The Rensselaer Engineers mustered a fine performance last weekend before Boston University closed them out 5-3.

One of the major questions for the Engineers going into the season rested in the nets. Freshman Joel Laing reportedly had an excellent game against BU and could be the answer. Northeastern, however, probably will not face Laing. Fellow rookie netminder Scott Prekaski, up next in the rotation, is expected to receive the nod.

Other Engineer players who caught USCHO ECAC Correspondent Jayson Moy’s eye were freshmen Brian Pothier and Doug Shepard, as well as much-improved sophomores Mark Murphy and Matt Garver.

Northeastern begins their rebuilding program under Bruce Crowder. "We’re going to try to establish what we have to work with here," said Crowder. "Once we have a better feel for the team, we’ll incorporate a system that will allow us to be successful."

Dmitri Vasiliev, Jonathan Calla, and Maine transfer Brad Mahoney comprise one top line. Top returning scorer Scott Campbell, rookie Billy Newson, and Justin Kearns make up the other.

Freshman Marc Robitaille will tend the nets.

Rensselaer gets the nod based on their impressive performance against BU, even if the Terriers weren’t operating on all cylinders.

PICK: Rensselaer 3-2.

Michigan State (2-0-0) at Northeastern (0-0-0)

Sunday, 1 p.m., Matthews Arena, Boston, MA

Both teams are discussed above in previews against other opponents.

Marc Robitaille could come back in the nets for the Huskies depending on his play against Rensselaer. Otherwise, fellow freshman Judd Brackett or upperclassman Kevin Noke will get the nod.

Michigan State is ranked seventh in the country. Hockey East coaches pegged Northeastern for eighth out of nine in the league. No contest.

PICK: Michigan State 6-1.

Copyright 1996 Dave Hendrickson . All Rights Reserved.

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This Week in the WCHA: October 25, 1996

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The second weekend of WCHA play is here, and if there’s as much excitement as last week, fans are in for some memorable moments at the rink.

Last weekend North Dakota topped Denver twice at their home rink, serving notice of their talent. Colorado College and Minnesota split, as expected; Minnesota dominated play at times in Friday’s game, and even though the Gophers outshot CC on Saturday, the Tigers played better team defense and got the win. UM-Duluth made the trip to Alaska-Anchorage and swept the Seawolves. Wisconsin got a shutout in the first game against visiting St. Cloud and the Huskies came back for a close win in the second game.

This week Colorado College heads for Northern Michigan, Wisconsin is at Denver, North Dakota travels to Michigan Tech and Minnesota goes to in-state rival Minnesota-Duluth. In a non-conference series St. Lawrence visits St. Cloud State.

Here’s a look at this weekend’s games…

North Dakota (2-0-0, 2-0-0 WCHA) at Michigan Tech (4-1-0, 1-1-0 WCHA) Friday, 7:35 p.m., Saturday, 7:05 p.m., John MacInnes Student Ice Arena, Houghton, MI

This is the top game of the week, with both teams off to fast starts.

The Huskies get back to conference battle after sweeping Mankato State last weekend. For the first time since 1984-85, the Huskies have won four of their first five games, with goalie David Weninger recording his first career shutout in the 3-0 win on Saturday. Coach Tim Watters knows the weekend series will be a battle, as the WCHA is competitive this season, and North Dakota is a very good hockey club coming in. They must be very disciplined and must play sound hockey at both ends of the ice.

Dave Hoogsteen had three goals and three assists and was named the WCHA Offensive Player of the Week. He’s only 5-7, but had 10 goals and 10 assists last year, so he’s off to a great start. Jason Blake, centering Hoogsteen’s line, also had a great weekend. Defensively North Dakota held DU to just 22 shots on Friday and 20 on Saturday. And goalie Toby Kvalevog was there when his mates needed big saves.

The Fighting Sioux will have to play some solid hockey at a tough place to play. Tech is always tough on their rink because they are a physical team. Their veteran players are off to a good start and they have good goaltending. "Our keys are to continue to do what we did last weekend; get contributions from everyone," Sandelin said.

ELMO Picks: MTU 4, UND 1 on Friday; UND 5, MTU 4 on Saturday.

Colorado College (1-1-0, 1-1-0 WCHA) at Northern Michigan (1-2-1, 1-1-0 WCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:05 p.m., Lakeview Arena, Marquette, MI

Colorado College invades Northern Michigan as both teams look to get above the .500 mark in WCHA play.

Colorado College got what they needed last weekend at Minnesota — a split. But this weekend the Tigers are looking for more. With some injured players (Chad Hartnell, Dan Peters, Lee Groom, T. J. Tanberg) out of the lineup, the entire squad must work together to get the job done. The Tigers were outshot in Saturday’s 2-1 win, but those shots came from far out. Coach Don Lucia liked the way his team played defense on Saturday and wants to continue this weekend.

NMU, a young team, has a chance to beat CC, something they haven’t done in the last eight meetings. Bud Smith will have to keep up his fine play; in last week’s 4-4 tie with LSSU he had two goals and an assist. The Wildcats must play solid hockey to win, and to keep its confidence high, which is a must for any young team. A strong effort against CC will do just that.

ELMO Picks: CC 4, NMU 1 on Friday; CC 3, NMU 1 on Saturday.

Wisconsin (1-1-0, 1-1-0 WCHA) at Denver (0-2-0, 0-2-0 WCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:05 p.m., Denver University Arena, Denver, CO

Both Wisconsin and Denver surprised the scribes last week — Denver by getting swept at North Dakota and Wisconsin with a split with St. Cloud. These are two teams which need to find direction this weekend.

Badger goalie Kirk Daubenspeck pitched a 2-0 shutout against St. Cloud Friday and has a .952 save percentage entering this weekend. He will play a key role in these games, since Denver will try to put a full-blown offensive blitz on him. The Badger freshmen had a great weekend against St. Cloud, collectively accounting for a goal and four assists among the team;s four goals and five assists. Dustin Kuk (0-2–2), Steve Reinprecht (1-0–1), T.R. Moreau (0-1-1) and Niki Siren (0-1–1) all tallied their first points in their first series as Badgers. Coach Jeff Sauer needs two wins to tie Bob Johnson’s school record.

The Pioneers should play like a possessed team this weekend after dropping two games. Coach George Gwozdecky will need to jumpstart his squad because the Badgers will be ready to play, and early in the season the Pioneers have plenty of time to get back on the winning track. Antti Laaksonen had a goal and assist on Friday and Anders Bjork finished the weekend with the same. Now it’s time for the rest of the team to step up.

ELMO Picks: DU 4, UW 2 on Friday; DU 4, UW 3 on Saturday.

Minnesota (1-1-0, 1-1-0 WCHA) at Minnesota-Duluth (3-1-0, 2-0-0 WCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:05 p.m., Duluth Entertainment & Convention Center, Duluth, MN

Minnesota Coach Doug Woog (suspended for a violation of NCAA rules) won’t be behind the bench, but that doesn’t take any excitement from this in-state rivalry. This series is always hotly anticipated by fans of both teams.

UMD made its trek to Alaska last weekend and survived to sweep Anchorage. However, that trip often takes a lot out of a team, and the Gophers hope to take advantage. But the Bulldogs are at home, which will help; Mike Peluso (4-1–5) and Curtis Doell (1-4–5) lead the team. Sergei Petrov and Max Wikman have a goal and three assists each. Goalie Brant Nicklin is undefeated in three games and has a 0.67 (how small?) goals against average and a .971 (wow!) save percentage.

With their off-ice problems the Gophers have had this week, there is always the chance that they’ll be unprepared — but don’t count on it. This is a series with the Bulldogs, after all. Erik Rasmussen has played everything like a first-round draft choice so far, with two goals and an assist against CC. Goalie Steve DeBus has a 2.00 goals against average and a .920 save percentage. If the Gophers keep focused, they should be in control of the series.

ELMO Picks: UM 4, UMD 2 on Friday; UM 5, UMD 2 on Saturday.

St. Lawrence (0-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC) at St. Cloud State (1-2-0, 1-1-0 WCHA) Friday-Saturday, 7:05 p.m., National Hockey Center, St. Cloud, MN

St. Cloud State will try to improve in a non-conference series with St. Lawrence, which is opening its season.

The Huskies split at Wisconsin, getting shut out in the first game but coming back with a solid effort Saturday, when SCSU got two goals and an assist from Sacha Molin and goaltender Tim Lideen turned away 30 shots to record his second win.

This is St. Lawrence’s opening weekend, a season after finishing with a 20-12-3 record which earned them a fourth-place finish in the preseason ECAC coaches poll. Last year the Saints were third with a 15-4-3 record. Top returning players include Paul DiFrancesco (16-39–55) and Derek Ladouceur (7-33–40). Jon Bracco (11-3-0, 3.62 GAA, .884 SV%) will be the main man in goal, and he can come up with big saves. The Saints are solid in all three areas of the game and are hungry for the season to start.

ELMO Picks: SCSU 3, SLU 2 on Friday; SLU 4, SCSU 1 on Saturday.

Next Week in the WCHA Friday-Saturday, Nov. 1-2 Michigan Tech at Alaska-Anchorage St. Cloud State at Colorado College Minnesota at Wisconsin Northern Michigan at North Dakota Denver at Clarkson

Copyright 1996 Jim Thies . All Rights Reserved.

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This Week in the CCHA: October 25, 1996

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Last weekend the CCHA got under way with a number of interesting matches. Miami got off to a solid start, sweeping Alaska-Fairbanks three straight games on the road. Michigan overpowered perennial Hockey East foe Maine 3-0 at the Joe, only to watch as Maine trounced Lake Superior the following day 7-4. Maine forward Dan Shermerhorn scored a hat trick in the second period to put the Lakers to rest.

Clarkson’s offense proved too strong for Ohio State’s freshman goalies, and Notre Dame and Western tied 3-3 in a tough game, signaling the parity that pervades this strong league. Michigan State got the best of WMU 3-1 the following evening, and Bowling Green indicated that the CCHA may be the dominant conference early on, displaying its firepower to the dismay of Boston College fans.

This weekend will be a telling one, as Bowling Green and Lake Superior face off in the Soo for two. Ferris State and Notre Dame will make their I-70 swing through Ohio State and Miami, which will determine who will take the upper hand in the standings early on. Michigan will get their road trip to Alaska out of the way, and Michigan state will meet Hockey East rivals Boston College and Bruce Crowder’s Northeastern team on a trip out east.

I tried to pick conservatively last week, and as anyone with half a brain knows, to pick winners in a competitive league is not a lot of fun. The strength of the offenses surprised me, as goaltenders are usually dominant this time of year. But, with my record at 7-5, I will try to make amends this week.

Here is a look at the games:

Michigan (3-0-0, 0-0-0 CCHA) at Alaska-Fairbanks (0-5-0, 0-3-0 CCHA) Thursday, Friday, 7:00 p.m., Carlson Center, Fairbanks, Alaska

The Nanooks did moderately well against Miami in their home opener, despite losing. The offense struggled to only four goals in three games, and the power play has scored only once in 18 attempts.

Michigan does well to get this trip out of the way early. With a defense as strong as its offense, and a penalty kill unit which has stopped all seven attempts against it, this team should not lose. They gave up only 20 shots to Maine, and Alaska-Fairbanks is no Maine.

Pick: Michigan sweeps, Friday 6-2 and Saturday 7-1

Bowling Green (4-0-0, 0-0-0 CCHA) at Lake Superior (3-1-0, 0-0-0 CCHA) Friday, Saturday, 7:30 p.m., Taffy Abel Arena, Sault Ste. Marie, MI

Bowling Green hopes this weekend will prove it belongs with the big boys in the league. The Falcons can put it in the net (as Mike Johnson showed last weekend), with Bowling Green scoring 12 against Boston College. But this weekend special teams will come into play for both sides, in their first true league games.

Lake State has something to prove, so Steve Battaglia has to keep putting up numbers. LSSU was only two for eight on the power play against Maine, blew a lead against Northern Michigan, and have struggled five-on-five thus far. Look for a more aggressive forecheck this weekend against rival BGSU; goaltender John Grahame needs to calm his defense down.

Pick: Friday, LSSU 4, BG 4; Saturday BG 5, LSSU 4

Ferris State (3-1-0, 0-0-0 CCHA) at Ohio State (0-3-0, 0-0-0 CCHA) Saturday, 7:30 p.m., Ohio State Ice Arena, Columbus, Ohio

Ferris State began with two tune-ups against Western Ontario, and the offense was productive, outshooting and outscoring their rivals, 5-4 and 6-3. The playing is over, as Ferris must do the same thing to the Buckeyes’ young goalies to gain the victory. Ohio State learned something last week: shooting helps.

The Buckeyes must use their size and speed to their advantage, mainly to help protect the goal on the defensive. Freshmen Ray Aho and Tom Connerty need all the help they can get right now. Ohio State did look strong against Clarkson for four of the six periods they played, but they lost the last one in each game, and must not falter late this week. Special teams will be critical to the outcome of this game. OSU must stay out of the penalty box, as misconducts ruined a hopeful weekend against Clarkson.

Pick: OSU 5, FSU 4

Notre Dame (1-0-1, 0-0-1 CCHA) at Ohio State (0-3-0, 0-0-0 CCHA) Friday, 7:30 p.m., Ohio State Ice Arena, Columbus, Ohio

Notre Dame has all the firepower necessary in young forwards like Ben Simon (though he missed a number of breakaways last weekend), but they still lack a physical presence compared to some teams.

Ohio State has that presence, and must use it to contain the Irish. The Buckeyes led No. 8 Clarkson last week in both games, and must learn to sustain that pressure. Ohio State’s defense cannot continue to surrender as many shots as in their first three games, atotal of 122. Ohio State has an offense to match Notre Dame’s with Pierre Dufour and Brandon LaFrance leading the way.

Pick: OSU 5, Notre Dame 3

Notre Dame (1-0-1, 0-0-1 CCHA) at Miami (4-1-0, 3-0-0) Saturday, 7:30 p.m., Goggin Ice Arena, Oxford, Ohio

Notre Dame again must prove it can play physically against a stingy Miami defense. Goaltending will be a key in this one. Miami has had strong special-teams play thus far, especially killing penalties. The Redskins have killed 17 of 18 attempts.

Juniors Adam Copeland and Tim Leahy and sophomore Randy Robitaille pose a potent offensive threat. Each had three points in Miami’s first game, against Alaska last week. Look for Adam Lord to shut Notre Dame down.

Pick: Miami 6, Notre Dame 2

Ferris State (3-1-0, 0-0-0 CCHA) at Miami (4-1-0, 3-0-0 CCHA) Friday, 7:30 p.m., Goggin Ice Arena, Oxford, Ohio

Ferris State, with junior Andy Roach, can use this game as a measuring stick. Ferris lacks depth on offense, and their goaltending has not been tested yet. Special teams will probably be sloppy, and that will cost them against a Miami team that is rolling early.

Miami scored a total of 19 goals in their last four games, but their power play is only around 20 percent. Five-on-five, this may be one of the toughest teams in the league. Adam Lord and Trevor Prior are both experienced enough to last a game like this.

Pick: Miami 5, Ferris 3

Michigan State (2-0-0, 1-0-0 CCHA) at Boston College (0-2-0, 0-0-0 Hockey East) Friday, 7:30 p.m., Conte Forum, Boston, Mass.

Michigan State is going to find out if Steve Ferranti is their leader this week, or Mike York, or Mike Watt — all of them can score. But the power play has not, having converted only one of seven attempts so far. Hint: use the back door! Defensively, they shut Western Michigan down, but after a long trip, allow for a mistake or two.

Boston College, I am afraid, is going to have nightmares early in the season. However, the experience will pay off for them in February. Depth is the problem; sophomore Mary Reasoner might be the best of his class, but he and junior Ken Hemenway will need their linemates to beat MSU. Senior Goalie Grag Taylor is solid, with a 15-16-3 record last season, and could steal this one for Coach York, but I doubt it if Chad Alban is playing on the other end.

Pick: MSU 5, BC 3

Michigan State (2-0-0, 1-0-0 CCHA) at Northeastern (0-0-0, 0-0-0 Hockey East) Saturday, 7:30 p.m., Matthews Arena, Boston, Mass.

Michigan State will have all they can handle with a new Northeastern system in place, but if they get through the first period, the Spartans will prevail. Size, depth, speed: these things all permeate the MSU lines, whereas their opponents are lacking here and there.

Northeastern is going to be as good as everyone thinks, but not right away. It takes time to build your own team, as Crowder knows well. Four of the five top scorers from last season are gone, leaving Scott Campbell and his 32 points in 1995-96 looking for help.

Pick: MSU 6, NE 2

Copyright 1996 Kirk Koennecke . All Rights Reserved.

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This Week in the ECAC: October 25, 1996

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The past weekend kicked off action for three of the 12 ECAC teams; now the other nine take to the ice for the first time this season.

The ECAC started off the season with a 3-1 record in non-conference play. Clarkson swept a pair from Ohio State, and Vermont defeated New Hampshire. The lone blemish for the ECAC was a loss by Rensselaer to Boston University. The ECAC hopes to improve on its non-conference record this weekend.

(All times EDT)

ST. LAWRENCE (0-0-0) at ST. CLOUD (1-2-0) Fri-Sat, 7:00 PM, National Hockey Center, St. Cloud, MN

The Saints start without suspended goaltender Clint Owen, which leaves Jon Bracco in goal for the Saints. His numbers from last season are actually better than Owen’s (3.69 GAA, .886 SV%), and with the two splitting time last season, there might not be the problem that everyone is predicting for the Saints. Their forwards are first class. Paul DiFrancesco is one of the finest centers in the ECAC (16-39–55), and he should be centering Scott Stevens (13-14–27) and Derek McLaughlin (10-16–26).

The Huskies come off a split with the Badgers of Wisconsin last weekend in WCHA play. After generating only 18 shots on goal and getting shut out on Friday evening, they rebounded with a 3-2 win with the help of two goals from Socha Molin. Expect to see the two Huskie goaltenders split games once again this weekend. Brian Leitza was solid in allowing only two goals on Friday, and Tim Ledeen also allowed only two goals on Saturday.

Which St. Cloud team will show up? Will it be the one that could only generate a few shots on goal, or the one that produced 37 shots on Saturday night? How will St. Lawrence start? Looks to be a defensive effort from the home team as they try to stop the quick forwards of St. Lawrence.

PICK: A St. Lawrence sweep, 4-1 and 5-4.

NORTHEASTERN (0-0-0) at RENSSELAER (0-1-0) Friday, 7:30PM, Houston Fieldhouse, Troy, NY

Northeastern begins their season on the road with their brand-new head coach Bruce Crowder. They come into the season without their top three scorers from last year in Jordan Shields (12-31–43), Dan Lupo (17-22–39), and Danny McGillis (12-24–36). They also lose both goaltenders in Todd Reynolds and Mike Veisor. What is Crowder to do? Can freshmen Todd Barclay, Roger Holeczy, and Billy Newson make an immediate impact? Can Scott Campbell and Justin Kearns add to their numbers from last year (20-12–32 and 7-9–16 respect- ively)? Should be a test for the Huskies this Friday.

Rensselaer had almost the same questions going into last week’s game against Boston University. But the freshmen looked impressive, as did the returning players. Freshman Joel Laing got the start last week, and we should expect to see the other freshman goalie, Scott Prekaski, get his first start this Friday. Eric Healey (1-0-1) looks like he is going to pick up where he left off in the scoring department, and the defense returns experience. Watch out for freshman defenseman Brian Pothier (0-1-1), who looks like a potential star for the Engineers.

Northeastern is searching, but Bruce Crowder is a great coach. The young and inexperienced Engineers got a great test in Boston University last weekend and did an admirable job and gained confidence. Northeastern has a a great chance at winning this one if Marc Robitaille and Judd Brackett get off to strong starts in their rookie games.

PICK: This is going to be a close one. RPI 5, Northeastern 4.

UNION (0-0-0) at NEW HAMPSHIRE (0-1-0) Friday, 7:00PM, Whittemore Center, Durham, NH

The Dutchmen begin their 1996-97 campaign on the road, and the same questions surround them as last year. Who will score for this team, and if they do, can they outscore their opponents? The debut of new head coach Stan Moore should see him try to find more scoring from returnees like Brent Ozarowski (13-11–24), Chris Ford (8-17–25), and Russ Monteith (5-11–16). They are solid in net with either Leeor Shtrom (3.09 GAA, .902 SV%) or Trevor Koenig (3.13 GAA, .910 SV%). They allow three goals a game, but can they score more than three goals?

The Wildcats come off a loss to highly-ranked Vermont last weekend. They also took a huge hit, as Captain Tim Murray was lost for a few weeks with a knee injury. Eric Boguniecki got the lone goal for UNH in their loss. The Wildcats played UVM tough, but could not match the outbursts of the Fabulous Frenchmen. They should have an easier time against Union. Brian Larochelle will have an easier time as well against the Dutchmen. But then again — new coach, more shots for the boys from Schenectady, who knows?

UNH has had two games to get things settled, and Union is not UVM. Union is starting a new era with Stan Moore.

PICK: UNH 7, Union 1.

COLGATE (0-0-0) at MAINE (1-1-0) Friday, 7:00PM, Alfond Arena, Orono, ME

Colgate begins their campaign with a trip to the Far Northeast and the Maine Black Bears. Colgate begins with high expectations for their star center Mike Harder (23-31–54). He should spearhead the offense which includes such returnees as Tim Loftsgard (8-11–19), Dru Burgess (8-11–19), and Jack McIntosh (7-10–17). Dan Brenzavich returns as the third-year starter (3.11 GAA, .893 SV%), and McIntosh rules the blue line for this team. Don Vaughn faces high expectations this year, and his team looks to get off to a hot start against the power from Hockey East.

Maine split a pair in the state of Michigan last weekend, losing to defending NCAA champions Michigan and defeating Lake Superior State. The Black Bears only generated 17 shots on goal against Marty Turco on Friday, but put up seven goals against the Lakers. The heroes on Saturday were senior Dan Shermerhorn, who netted the hat trick, and junior Scott Parmentier, who added two goals. Freshman Alfie Michaud was solid in net, turning back 12 of 16 shots against the Lakers and 28 of 31 against Michigan.

This should be one wide-open game with the better defense prevailing. I think that’s Colgate. It’s a tight one.

PICK: Colgate 3, Maine 2.

BROWN (0-0-0) at YALE (0-0-0) exhibition Friday, 7:30PM, Ingalls Rink, New Haven, CT

Brown starts to answer the question this weekend at the Yale Whale: who will score for them? Mike Flynn (9-13–22) is the leading scorer and Marty Clapton (8-8–16) joins him, but other than that, there is not much. A strong defense is led by Bob Quinnell, and D.J. Harding and Jimmy Andersson also bring strength to this position. It will probably be Jeff Holowaty in the net (3.33 GAA, .901 SV%), and he hopes to continue his solid play.

Yale also starts to answer a question this weekend at home: can this team win a game this year? Their leading returning scorer is defenseman Ray Giroux (3-17–20), and their leading returning forward is Matt Cumming (8-6–14). The returnees must increase their offensive output or else this is just the start to a very long season for the Bulldogs, goalie Alex Westlund (4.95 GAA, .856 SV%) and head coach Tim Taylor.

This one should be a low-scoring affair as both teams struggle to put it in the net. Brown’s defense makes the difference.

PICK: Brown 3, Yale 1.

COLGATE (0-0-0) at NEW HAMPSHIRE (0-1-0) Saturday, 7:00PM, Whittemore Center, Durham, NH

Colgate’s next dance partner is New Hampshire. The Red Raiders should enjoy the larger ice surface more than the regulation one in Orono. The forwards should excel in this rink, being that they are the speedy playmaking type. Mike Harder should find some good skating room. The key here is the defense for Colgate. If they can cover the wider surface, then they can stop the UNH forwards.

New Hampshire gets a tougher opponent tonight. The defense will be tested sorely, and here’s where the loss of Tim Murray may severely hurt the WIldcats. If Brian Larochelle goes for a second consecutive evening, he will see one of the greatest shots in the ECAC in Harder. Scoring is a must for this game, as Colgate can put them up.

Wide-open end-to-end play at Towse Rink tonight. The hot goalie is the one that makes the difference.

PICK: UNH 5, Colgate 3.

VERMONT (1-0-0) at BOSTON UNIVERSITY (1-0-0) Saturday, 7:00PM, Walter Brown Arena, Boston, MA

The game of the week in many eyes. The number-two team in the nation against number three. "Wow" is an appropriate word for this one. Half of the Final Four participants from last year clash in what should be an exciting game.

Vermont comes off a 5-1 win over UNH last week. Five points from the Flying Frenchmen, Eric Perrin (2-1–3) and Martin St. Louis (0-2–2), helped spur the victory. But the real story was that there were contributions from others. Matt Stelljes (the captain), Jason Hamilton and Matt Sanders also scored, and that’s where Vermont sneaks up on you. Most teams concentrate on that first line, and the other lines then take advantage against their counterparts. Tim Thomas will be solid as usual in the net, and a superb defense led by Jan Kloboucek will try to contain the Terrier forwards.

Boston University played a less-than-stellar game against Rensselaer last Saturday, but has enough talent to win games in which they do not excel. Bill Pierce was the main man against RPI as he scored two goals, one short- handed and one on the power play. The Terriers are another team that has depth among lines. Their third- and fourth-line play from such contributors as John Hynes, Peter Donatelli, Albie O’Connell, and Bobby Hanson make things tough on competitors. Tom Noble should be back in net against the Catamounts after defeating Minnesota in an exhibition. A defense which is not spectacular, but consistent, is led by Shane Johnson and Jon Coleman.

This is a tough game to call. It will come down to stopping Chris Drury and Shawn Bates for Vermont, stopping St. Louis and Perrin for BU, third- and fourth-line play, and special teams. This should be a barnburner.

PICK: BU 4, Vermont 3.

TEAM POLAND at HARVARD (0-0-0) Saturday, 10/26, 7:00PM, Bright Hockey Center, Cambridge, MA

I am in the same quandry that Dave Hendrickson was in. I don’t know much more about the Polish team than he does, except for one thing – they lost 6-1 to UMass-Amherst last weekend, and got pounded by Clarkson on Wednesday night. I’ll take Dave’s offer one further: a dozen of the finest from Famous Lunch in Troy for more info.

Harvard starts the season, and Peter Zakowich and J.R. Prestifillipo can become the latest in the goalie tandems which have served the Crimson so well. Henry Higdon has his chance at becoming the latest and greatest center in Crimson history, and Ashlin Halfknight joins a long string of Crimson captains. But what is Harvard’s dilemma? Scoring. Craig Adams and Craig MacDonald have a year under them, and last year’s heralded freshman class are now sophomores. In comes another touted freshmen class. Can they contribute? Lots of questions for Ronn Tomasonni.

I’ll go out on a limb on this score.

PICK: Harvard 6, Team Poland 1.

TEAM POLAND at BROWN (0-0-0) Sunday, 2:00PM, Meehan Auditorium, Providence, RI

Team Poland continues their tour in Providence. Let’s make that two dozen of Famous Lunch’s finest.

Here’s exactly what Bob Gaudet was looking for. A game situation to mix his lines, play the freshmen, and find good chemistry for his team. It also lets some of his players get the scoring touch.

That limb is getting shorter…

PICK: Brown 4, Team Poland 2.

OTTAWA at DARTMOUTH (0-0-0) exhibition Sunday, 3:00PM, Thompson Arena, Hanover, NH

Ottawa has played two Division I teams this year: Boston College, who pasted them 9-2, and UNH, which to the surprise of many tied the Wildcats 3-3. Goalie Joel Gagnon faced 76 shots on goal, and Head Coach Mickey Goulet saw goals from Mike Chelbus, Benoit Constantineau, and Andre Deschenes.

Dartmouth returns their six top scorers in David Whitworth (13-18–31), Bill Kelleher (11-16–27), Owen Hughes (4-14–18), Jon Sturgis (7-9–16), Brent Retter (5-8–13) and Alex Dumas (4-9–13). They also return two senior goalies in Ben Heller (4.98 GAA, .824 SV%) and Scott Baker (4.11 GAA, .870 SV%). This will hopefully be Roger Demment’s breakthrough year as head coach. This team has a lot of promise.

Should be another penalty-filled game, making the power play for Dartmouth very important.

PICK: Dartmouth 7, Ottawa 2.

TEAM POLAND at PRINCETON (0-0-0) Tuesday, 10/29, 7:30PM, Hobey Baker Rink, Princeton, NJ

As for Poland, we’d better make that three dozen Famous Lunch’s.

Princeton starts out the season. J.P. O’Connor returns after a one-season layoff and should be expected to bring his scoring. Others must help him, though. Sophomore Jason Given will be expected to score more than his six goals and 11 assists from last season. The defense will see a lot of new faces with Jason Smith, Barrington Miller and Dan Brown graduating. In between the pipes, James Konte is gone, and the Tigers turn to Erasmo Saltarelli.

Another limb?

PICK: Princeton 5, Poland 2.

TEAM POLAND at CORNELL (0-0-0) Wednesday, 10/30, 7:30PM, Lynah Rink, Ithaca, NY

More Poland in the United States. This one should hurt a lot as well. Make it four dozen.

Cornell begins play as the defending ECAC champions. It’s been a long time for the Big Red Faithful, and second-year head coach Mike Schafer looks for the repeat. Brad Chartrand is gone, but Matt Cooney (13-21–34), Kyle Knopp (11-19– 30), and Ryan Smart (8-19–27) return. Let’s hope Vinnie Auger (5-15–20) can be healthy for one full season. One of the best blue-line tandems in the nation includes Chad and Steve Wilson. Jason Elliot emerged as the starting goalie for the Big Red last season with a 2.35 GAA and a save percentage of .923.

Only one more game left for the Polish Nationals next week.

PICK: Cornell 9, Team Poland 0.

NEXT WEEK:

ECAC league action begins with the annual opener between Brown and Harvard; plus, non-conference action continues.

Friday, November 1 Lake Superior State @ St. Lawrence Miami (OH) @ Vermont Denver @ Clarkson Army @ Dartmouth Merrimack @ Colgate Air Force @ Princeton Providence @ Union

Saturday, November 2 HARVARD @ BROWN Denver @ Clarkson Miami (OH) @ St. Lawrence Lake Superior St. @ Vermont Merrimack @ Union Providence @ Colgate Air Force @ Princeton Army @ RPI Waterloo @ Cornell (exhibition) Team Poland @ Yale (exhibition)

Copyright 1996 Jayson Moy . All Rights Reserved.

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The Key Is In Goal

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The ECAC has its share of great forwards: Mike Harder at Colgate, Martin St. Louis and Eric Perrin at Vermont, Todd White at Clarkson, Paul DiFrancesco at St. Lawrence, Ryan Smart at Cornell, Henry Higdon at Harvard, and others.

There are also a number of quality defensemen: Mikko Ollila at Clarkson, Jeremiah McCarthy at Harvard, Steve Wilson at Cornell, Jan Kloboucek at Vermont, along with others.

But at the goaltender position, there remain questions. For years coaches have preached that a great goaltender can help a team reach new levels. Nowhere was this more evident than on the big stage last year, in the NHL and the World Cup of Hockey.

The Florida Panthers were able to reach the Stanley Cup Finals based largely on the strength of their goaltender, John Vanbiesbrouck. The Panthers were not a great skating or scoring team, but the Beezer raised the level of their play.

Speaking of which, how about Mike Richter? Team USA’s netminder played a crucial role at the World Cup; while the Americans were deep offensively, Richter shined in the final series against Canada, who pelted the goal mercilessly. Without Richter, the USA doesn’t win the World Cup. Period.

The same idea can be applied to the ECAC. It is clear that goaltending can turn an otherwise-average team into a contender, or take a team with talent up front back to the middle of the pack.

The correlation between goaltending and the top of the standings is clearer than ever this season in the ECAC. Let’s examine the 12 conference teams (in reverse predicted order of finish), and assess their goaltending.

The last time Yale made a run at the top of the standings was with second-team All-ECAC goalie Todd Sullivan. Dan Choquette and Alex Westlund are now the netminders, combining for a goals-against average (GAA) of 4.59 last year. There is no question that these are competent goalies, but not of the caliber of Sullivan, who allowed well under four goals per game.

Union, in their short Division I history, has not had a strong goaltending tradition. But things seem to be changing on that front. They now have Leeor Shtrom (3.09 GAA) in the net, and because of him Union is a dangerous team. The Dutchmen were picked next-to-last, but if they find any kind of offense, they could move up several spots — because their netminder can play with the best.

Princeton’s recent rise was with James Konte in goal. In fact, one might argue that he led them to the ECAC Championship game in 1995. Konte has since graduated, and Erasmo Saltarelli assumes the role of starting goaltender. For Princeton to have success, Saltarelli must impress.

With Brown, we have the same story of solid but not spectacular. Brian Audette and Jeff Holowaty are back, and get the job done, but are not guys that can steal the show like Geoff Finch could.

RPI is another team looking for a presence in net. With a great tradition of goaltending from folks like Kevin Constantine, Darren Puppa, Neil Little, and Mike Tamburro, RPI fans have grown accustomed to counting on their goaltenders. Now two freshmen, Scott Prekaski and Joel Laing, are fighting for the job, and no one knows what that will mean.

The Harvard Crimson have been blessed with quality tandems in goal such as Chuckie Hughes and Allain Roy, Aaron Israel and Tripp Tracy. But what about now? Peter Zakowich and J.R. Prestifillipo are the candidates. As of yet they are untested, but so were the others once. If they can make the adjustment, Harvard could be in for one nice ride.

For Dartmouth, Scott Baker and Ben Heller return with a combined GAA of 4.59 and with a stronger D in front of them this season. While these two haven’t proven it yet, they will likely steal some games, and if they do, Dartmouth will be up there in the standings.

Now we get into the elite class of goalies in the ECAC, starting with Cornell. Jason Elliot is a one man gang; he backstopped the Big Red to the ECAC Championship last year, and brings back a GAA of 2.35 and a .923 save percentage. Can he do it again? If so, Cornell is in for another sweet season.

Clint Owen is the man for St. Lawrence, and he is a good one. He’s got the tools necessary to put St. Lawrence over the top. However, he will have to sit out the first half of this season because of an undisclosed violation of team rules. That leaves Jon Bracco minding the store. Though Bracco is solid, St. Lawrence will take a step back with him in the net. Life will be good in Canton when Owen gets back, but until then, what will the Saints do without him?

Dan Brenzavich leads the Colgate Red Raiders. He is overshadowed by others in his class, but Brenzavich is a winner in his own right. However, he has yet to prove he can win the big games, and until he does, how far Colgate can go remains a mystery.

Dan Murphy is Clarkson’s workhorse, a second-team All-ECAC pick for the second year running. He plays almost every game for the Golden Knights, and is as solid as they come (2.70 GAA, .912 SV%). The Golden Knights usually have the goalies; this year is no different.

What else can you say about Tim Thomas? He has done the job since he first stepped onto the ice in Burlington. A 2.34 GAA is right on his career numbers, and now that the nation knows him better, what he can do, everyone should see what the fanfare is about.

Generally, then, the second-division teams do not have a strong presence in net. Conversely, the teams at the top have the elite ones, as is usually the case.

Some of the teams in the middle of the pack could make significant moves one way or another depending on how their goaltending questions pan out. Dartmouth could finish as high as fifth or sixth, but could drop much lower if their keepers don’t perform.

On the other end of the spectrum, there are teams like RPI and Harvard, who could finish better than predicted if their goaltenders come off solidly. Harvard is in a slightly different position; they are well-regarded, but if their tandem fails to get the job done the Crimson could be in serious trouble.

Basically, the top spots in the conference could come down to which goalie can put his team on his back. The ECAC is typical in that regard — strength between the pipes is a must. Clearly some teams are set up nicely in this regard, while others will struggle. As the season goes on, we’ll find out a lot about the league by how the goaltenders play.

Watters, Talafous Accepting Challenges in WCHA

By Jim Thies
-

Challenges.

Some people run, while others choose to ignore them. But still others grab hold and work to overcome them. Those folks may conquer, or they may fall short.

For Tim Watters and Dean Talafous, the latest challenge is as head coach of a WCHA team — working to get to the top of one of the premier Division I hockey conferences in the nation.

Both are looking forward to the work ahead.

Watters Returns to MTU

Tim Watters returns to Michigan Tech after a splendid 13-year career in the NHL. He spent seven years with the Winnipeg Jets (1981-88) where he was a co-captain and received the team’s 7th Player Award for contributions both on and off the ice. He was signed as a free agent with the Los Angeles Kings (1988), playing for the next six years. He was voted the team’s top defenseman and won the club’s Unsung Hero Award.

Watters, a Kamloops, B.C., native, played his college hockey with the Huskies and scored 19 goals and 93 points in three seasons. In 1981 he helped the Huskies to a third place finish in the NCAA tournament and was named an All-American and to the All-WCHA team.

He got a taste of coaching last year as an assistant with the Boston Bruins. He liked the experience and returned to Houghton in August.

“It’s just fabulous to be back; it’s great being back in Copper Country,” said Watter. “Ever since I turned pro, we’ve had a summer home close by. For me and my family, being back coaching the Huskies is a great thing.”

The Huskies are off to a good start with a 4-1 overall and 1-1 WCHA record. And Watters is happy about the team’s early-season success.

“Our players have picked up the systems very well. Whenever there’s a coaching change there are always periods of adjustment for everyone. The players are getting a feel for me and I’m doing the same with them. But it’s gone quite well and we’ll keep going strong.

“We had players step to the front: Andre Savage, Jeff Mikesch, Rob Kinch and Jason Prokopetz. They’ve done a very good job for us. I think throughout the year a lot of players will have the chance to prove what they can do. We lost a lot of players to graduation and other things, so there will be plenty of opportunities.”

So why would a man with a chance to coach in the NHL move to a new challenge at the collegiate level?

“I believe this program has great potential,” he said. “It’s a program I went through and went on to be successful. This program can offer, in my eyes, besides the top education and good hockey, a school in an area that brings the best out of people. Quality people are here and that is the type of program we want; we want to attract quality people.”

That sounds like a solid theme to work with, and Watters has proven at least two things in his career; he understands what it takes to be successful and he knows how to accomplish his goals.

“Right now the best thing about our young season is I am very pleased with the character of the team. It is a great group of individuals and all the coaches look to mold them into a good hockey club.”

North to Alaska

Last May, Dean Talafous became just the second coach in Alaska-Anchorage hockey history. He firmly believes in the hockey program and wants to win a national championship. He believes he can accomplish that lofty goal, or he would not have taken the job.

But he also knows that it will take time, a commitment from everyone in the program, and a “no excuses” attitude.

That attitude helped Talafous win a 1994 NCAA Division III national title at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and a berth in four straight championship finals. No other NCAA Div. III team advanced to the finals four straight years. Plus he spent several successful seasons in the NHL.

Talafous isn’t new to the WCHA, having played at Wisconsin (1971-74), where he helped the Badgers to the NCAA title, being named tourney MVP in the process. Before going to UW-River Falls he was an assistant at Minnesota when the Gophers won two WCHA titles.

So far this year he has enjoyed some early-season success with a 2-2 overall record. Last weekend the Seawolves dropped a pair of close WCHA games to Minnesota-Duluth, and are 0-2 in the league.

“So far the players have been real receptive to our ideas,” said Talafous. “We have three captains who are good listeners. They follow instructions and the rest of team follows their lead. Stacy Prevost, David Vallieres and Todd Bethard have been good leaders.

“We are much farther along than I thought we would be at this point. We have to look at our own progress and not the end results. We must play strong defense and then generate more offense. In the areas of discipline and team defense we are moving along. Most important is the effort from the players has been there; there’s a good work ethic with them.”

The Duluth, Minn., native will apply the same tactics used on him to convince players to move to Alaska and play hockey.

“We can make people aware of how Alaska can grab you — the beauty and friendly people,” he said. “There’s no other place on earth with the beauty of the ocean and mountains. People here come from other places and have to bond together and support each other to get along. Alaska is not for everybody, but for the player who wants adventure and the experience of a lifetime, there’s no other place like it.”

Talafous has noted the attention the Seawolves get and that has been his biggest adjustment this year.

“The big difference [from UW-River Falls] is the media attention. There is tremendous community interest. I’m speaking, doing TV, radio and newspaper interviews on a daily basis. We must be organized to get the job done on the ice, which is number one for us. People desperately want a winner here.”

With time and that “no excuses” attitude, the winning can’t be far off.

Minnesota Head Coach Suspended

By Frank Mazzocco
-

Minnesota today suspended hockey coach Doug Woog and pulled one scholarship from the program for Woog’s role in obtaining cash to help a former player pay tuition expenses after his eligibility had ended.

The decision was announced by men’s athletics director Mark Dienhart at an early-evening news conference at Mariucci Arena.

Dienhart said Woog gave Chris McAlpine $500 in 1994 to put towards spring quarter tuition during his senior year. He also said the University has reported the NCAA rules violation to the national association.

In a St. Paul Pioneer Press report today, unnamed sources contend the money was not Woog’s and was not given by anyone affiliated with the university. McAlpine reportedly was given the cash after changing his mind about signing a professional contract in favor of completing his senior year of classes. By that time, however, McAlpine’s tuition money for the quarter had reportedly been allocated to another player.

In an emotional appearance before the media, Woog admitted to making an error and violating an NCAA rule. He expressed remorse for the attention he has brought to the university, his players and Dienhart, whom he called a friend. Woog says his decision to give the money to McAlpine happened quickly, was not premeditated and was not done with malice.

Specifically, these are the provisions of the university’s self-imposed penalties:

  • Woog will be suspended for at least one week, without pay.
  • The program’s scholarships will be reduced from 18 to 17 for the 1997-98 academic year.
  • Woog will be required to attend, at his expense, an NCAA rules seminar.

    The duration of the suspension could increase depending on the findings of the internal investigation. He will not be behind the bench for the team’s games at Minnesota-Duluth Friday and Saturday nights, and could miss games in the following weekend at Wisconsin. Those schools represent Minnesota’s biggest traditional rivals.

    During the suspension, Woog will not be allowed to have contact with his players or assistant coaches.

    Dienhart said the scope of the penalties was determined following consultation with the NCAA, which will conduct its own investigation into the matter. Dienhart said the penalties would have been much stiffer had the violation occurred while McAlpine had eligibility remaining.

    This is the first NCAA violation of significance by Woog, who Friday began his 12th season as Minnesota’s head coach. Last spring, however, he was suspended by the WCHA for abusing an official during the association’s playoff tournament.

    Associate head coach Mike Guentzel will coach the team during Woog’s absence.

    • NCAA To Investigate Minnesota

    USCHO Staff Report
    -

    The University of Minnesota and the NCAA are engaged in an investigation into possible rules infractions, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reported Sunday, October 20, 1996.

    Reportedly Gopher head coach Doug Woog gave co-captain Chris McAlpine $500 after the conclusion of the 1993-94 hockey season, once defenseman McAlpine had used up his hockey eligibility. The money was to be used to finish school.

    University officials had no official comment to make on the matter.

    McAlpine played four years for the Minnesota team, from the 1990-91 seasons. In his senior season he was co-captain, and is on the all time leader board for assists and points by a Minnesota defensemen. He was named to the second team All America squad in 1994.

    McAlpine is currently with the Albany River Rats of the AHL.

    Erik Drygas: Trying to Triumph Over Tragedy

    By Eric Carlson
    -

    On October 7, in practice only days before the opening of the season, University of Alaska Fairbanks sophomore defenseman Erik Drygas fell head first into the boards when he caught a skate edge during a drill and severely fractured his fifth cervical vertebra. Two days later he underwent successful surgery to stabilize his neck and he remains in the intensive care unit in Fairbanks Memorial Hospital.

    Fortunately, his spinal cord is intact although he has only very limited feeling and movement in his upper body and none in his lower extremities. It is uncertain whether he will regain any increased movement. He is expected to be transported to a spinal rehabilitation clinic in the next week.

    Those are the facts of this story, but if you were with us in Fairbanks you would see the impact this has had on everyone in the community. When Travis Roy was injured last year, many people here were affected and rallied to help him out. It was a terrible accident and we cared, but now it has happened to us too.

    Erik is not just a Nanook hockey player to us. He is also from our hometown. His parents, Mark and Kathy, are long time residents of Fairbanks. Erik grew up here and learned to play hockey here. He played youth hockey here and at Lathrop High School. He was even a Nanook stick boy when the university program was in its infancy. He had to leave home to play junior hockey, but he chose to come back and play for the Nanooks.

    He scored his only collegiate goal so far, in his very first game and on home ice too. He and his teammates from Fairbanks help children here dare not just to dream about things that a generation earlier we considered impossible.

    In the last few days many people throughout the community have begun the task of helping Erik and his family in this very difficult situation. We were glad to hear that Erik’s medical expenses will be paid, but they will exhaust the Drygas’ insurance, and then the university’s coverage on him, before being paid by catastrophic coverage maintained by the NCAA for the student-athletes.

    There are however going to be extensive needs for Erik and his family that will not be paid. He will be rehabilitating a long way from Fairbanks. His family will need help with their transportation costs. Even to talk to Erik on a regular basis will be expensive. His parents will certainly miss time from work. When he comes home, they may need to make special modifications to his housing and for transportation.

    Even if Erik makes a full recovery, the non-medical expenses during the next year will be very great for the Drygas family. We try not to think of the worse possibilities, but we know what they are.

    In order to help Erik and his family, we have established the Erik Drygas Fund and this weekend has been declared Erik Drygas Weekend while the University of Alaska Fairbanks hosts Miami University in the CCHA openers for both teams at the Carlson Center. Most of the activities this weekend will be centered around raising funds for the Drygas family and recognizing what Erik has meant to people and symbolizes in the community.

    This will be just the beginning of at least a full season of activities planned by the UAF Face Off Club, the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the Alaska Gold Kings professional hockey team, the Carlson Center, the Fairbanks Amateur Hockey Association, local service clubs, AM 970 radio, and many, many other groups and individual members of the Fairbanks community.

    Erik means something to us that is hard to explain and we are going to help him out. There isn’t really any other choice. He and his family need us right now and what has happened to him has happened in some small way to every one of us. In a community that is sometimes polarized by issues that now seem so trivial, that is something we are coming together on. When Erik comes home — and we will be waiting for that — I sincerely hope we remember what we are doing now.

    Please letters or cards of encouragement and best wishes for Erik Drygas to the following address:

    Erik Drygas
    c/o UAF Face Off Club
    P.O. Box 81043
    Fairbanks, AK 99708

    Donations or contributions should be designated for the Erik Drygas Fund and may be sent to UAF Face Off Club at the above address or to:

    The Erik Drygas Fund
    Denali State Bank
    119 North Cushman
    P.O. Box 74568
    Fairbanks, AK 99701

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