Chancellor To Decide Boone's Fate In Meeting


From: DU Clarion Student Newspaper

by Lindsay LaRocque


Chancellor Robert Coombe may comment tomorrow on whether or not Boone, the retired mascot for the University of Denver, will be retired indefinitely.

AUSA Senate discussed the controversy that developed about the cartoon character at the senate meeting last Tuesday.

The conversation began with Senate President, Monica Kumar announcing an upcoming statement will be made by the chancellor.

"October 1 will be the upper level meeting in which the Chancellor may come out with never bringing [Boone] back as the official mascot," Kumar stated. "From their perspective, there's no way to resolve this."

Senate members are divided with one side feeling that there will be a marginalized portion of students who find Boone to be offensive.

The other side feels that the senate need to push for what the majority of the student body.

Arts and Humanities Social Sciences Senator Tess Cromer said, "Whatever the circumstances, if there is a group which feels marginalized, we as a Senate cannot support such an initiative."

On the other side of the issue was President Pro-Tem, Junior Javi Ogaz.

"We need to be attuned to what people feel is offensive and what the majority wants," Ogaz stated. "To function as a Senate, we need to reconcile with the entire student body. We must do something for the good of the school and the community."

A student-led initiative to bring Boone back as the mascot for the University of Denver has been in progress for years.

Students manufactured t-shirts, stickers and pins with the cartoon plastered on them.

This initiative resulted with Boone's image being incorporated in the school year planners that are distributed to students. These planners were recalled & destroyed at the start of the year.

On the social networking Website Facebook, there are pages made by DU students solely dedicated on bringing Boone back to campus.

Students leave comments on the pages like "Has anyone ever heard of history?," "We have to cherish ours," "BRING BOONE BACK," and have posted videos in which students are asking where Boone is.

Despite the majority of students wanting Boone back, there is still the voice of those who do not.

On the same networking site, students against Boone are stating that he should not be allowed back because he is a "symbol of racism, genocide and oppression."

This is referring to the reason why Boone was retired in 1999.

It is believed that Boone, who was created by Walt Disney, represents the historical figure Daniel Boone, a man who led other pioneers to massacre Native Americans in their quest to settle the continent.

Many areas around campus have stopped the movement to bring back Boone.

"From an athletic perspective, all the athletes have dropped the idea of Boone completely," said Chair of Intercollegiate Athletics, Dani Espinosa.

Peg Bradley-Doppes, vice chancellor of athletics, said that the Chancellor has always been clear the Boone will never be an official mascot at DU.

"The university has a moral responsibility to do what's right," she said.

Bradley-Doppes is also co-chair of the History and Traditions Task Force.

The group was convened last October to "examine and celebrate our [DU's] rich history and traditions and try and create more of a campus culture," she said.

Part of the task force's charge was to look at Boone and gather the public's opinion of him as a mascot.

Currently, no decision will be made by the task force regarding Boone until more discussions take place, Bradley-Doppes said.

She was involved, however, in the decision to print this year's planners as the original design featured Boone on almost every page.

"There was some heightened sensitivity because we were made aware that Boone might be offensive to individuals on our campus," she said of the decision to reprint the planners without Boone's image.

New planners will be available near the end of the quarter.

With the AUSA Senate as the representatives for the entire student body, it will fall upon them to further a mascot search because they feel that the students on campus are just not happy with the current mascot, Ruckus, the red tail hawk.

"Boone is gone for all student purposes, but we as a Senate can dialogue about a new mascot," Kumar said.

So what's the next step for Senate and Boone, other than waiting for the chancellor's official statement?

Senate advisor Carl Johnson, who is also the director of student programs and Greek Life, said, "We need to hear from all students, groups and administrators. We need to get educated about all their perspectives."

Former Pioneer Superstar Battling Cancer

(above) DU Alum George Morrison, seen here playing for the WHA Minnesota Fighting Saints in the '70s, has one of his sticks in the Hockey Hall of Fame

From: The Calgary Sun
by Billy Powers


This is a tough story to write because it involves a good friend who is losing a battle for his life. Former University of Denver Pioneer George Morrison, who helped deliver two national championships to DU in the late Sixties, found out recently he has a brain tumor that his friends says is inoperable. He has asked there be no visitors but hopes those who would think of attending the service would simply raise a glass in remembrance instead and, if they so desire, make a donation to the Union College hockey program care of Union College in Schenectady, New York.

Morrison served as a volunteer assistant coach for the women's team at Union College and was president of Overtime Sports Management Group, which concentrated on television productions and other sports related properties.

George, who friends say is in remarkably good spirits, unlike those around him, was a scoring machine when he went to the University of Denver, scoring 70 goals in 64 game to be named to the NCAA West First all-star team in both 1969 and 1970 .

He led the Pioneers to the NCAA championship in 1969. He was not drafted by the National Hockey League but signed as a free agent with the St. Louis Blues, playing 73 games and collecting 25 points.

In 1972, the speedy forward was drafted by the fledgling World Hockey Association's Minnesota Fighting Saints and had his best year as a pro in '73-'74, scoring 40 goals and adding 38 assists in 73 games. He jumped to the Calgary Cowboys in 1974 and, in two seasons, played 142 games, scoring 36 goals and adding 51 points.

A two-time WHA All-Star, Morrison’s stick is in the Hockey Hall of Fame for scoring three goals in only 43 seconds against Vancouver.

In recent years he helped bring the Nationwide Golf Tour event to Calgary.

One friend said: "If you've ever prayed for a miracle, pray for one now." Our prayers are with an old friend.

University Of Alberta Will Test The Pioneers

The University of Alberta Golden Bears return to action following a bye week as the defending CIS University Cup champions visit three NCAA teams in three days. Alberta will open its trip south of the border against the University of Denver Pioneers on Saturday, and then play the United States Air Force Academy Falcons on Sunday before concluding the trip on Monday, October 6th at Colorado College.

Alberta has opened the season with three victories over Canadian universities while only losing a 3-2 exhibition decision to the Edmonton Oiler rookies last Monday night.

Eric Thurston's Golden Bear squad, finished the game against the Oilers rookies with a 37-26 shot advantage and held the lions' share of power-play time, getting six man-advantages to the Oiler's one but couldn't notch the go-ahead goal.

Denver Post Looks Forward To Hockey Season

(left) All eyes will be on Joe Colborne on Saturday night as DU opens its season with an exhibition game against the University of Alberta

From: Denver Post
by Mike Chambers


The University of Denver's hockey season starts in earnest Saturday, the first "official" day of practice, but each team has been in practice mode since Sept. 15. According to NCAA rules, coaching staffs can be on the ice with their teams for only two hours per week from Sept. 15 to Friday. Outside of that time, however, the players have held "captain's practices," which typically are drawn up by the coaches and merely carried out by the team captains. (read rest of article)

DU Recruits Help Lead USNDT over UAA

(left) DU goaltending recruit Adam Murray will come to DU in 2009

Kenny Ryan notched two goals and DU recruit Adam Murray stopped all 13 shots he faced in the third period as the U.S. National Under-18 Team defeated the University of Alaska Anchorage, 4-3.  The USNDT features two Alaskans & one Coloradan that will head to the University of Denver in 2009.

"This was a good win for our team, especially since it was our first game against NCAA Division I competition," said Ron Rolston, head coach of the U.S. National Under-18 Team. "The team showed a lot of determination to come back after going down 2-0 in the first period and Adam Murray made some big saves when we needed them."

Murray made 13 of his 26 saves during the third period to earn the 4-3 victory. DU recruit Drew Shore added an assist and DU's other recruit William Wrenn played on the blueline. Wrenn proved himself a sturdy defenseman whose forte is using his size (6-1, 198) to ward off onrushing attackers and cleaning things up in his own zone. This is his second season with the national program.

The U.S. National Under-18 Team returns to action on Saturday (September 27) when it takes on the University of Alaska at 7:05 p.m. AKT in Fairbanks.

Mannino's New Helmet Features Boone

Peter Mannino's new helmet for the Bridgeport Sound features Boone in a new role. Dressed up like the Islander's fisherman (left), Boone looks ready to tackle "The Perfect Storm."

Good luck to Mannino this season in the AHL.

Pioneer Alum May Finally See Spot Duty In NHL

(above) Aaron MacKenzie played for DU from 1999-2003 and scored 19 goals and 54 assists

From: Denver Post
by Terry Frei

In five seasons with the St. Louis Blues' American Hockey League affiliates, former University of Denver defenseman Aaron MacKenzie didn't even get a cup-of-coffee callup.

In July, MacKenzie — already an offseason resident of Boulder — signed with the Colorado Avalanche. On opening night in two weeks, he almost certainly will be back in the AHL with the Lake Erie Monsters. Yet MacKenzie is getting enough of a look in camp and the outset of the exhibition season to perhaps help stamp him as a reliable defenseman who could be called up for fill-in duty if Colorado has another injury-plagued season.

MacKenzie was in the lineup Thursday for Colorado's 4-2 exhibition victory over the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center, in a pairing with veteran defenseman Jordan Leopold. They finally were teammates after seeing each other as collegiate opponents, when Leopold was starring at the University of Minnesota.

A year behind Leopold, MacKenzie, from Terrace Bay, Ontario, was an all-Western Collegiate Hockey Association choice and DU's captain as a senior in 2002-03.

Against the Stars, MacKenzie had 15:07 of ice time and had three blocked shots. But considering he has only 10 goals in five AHL seasons, it's obvious he isn't going to crack the NHL as anything other than a stay-at-home, solid defenseman.

Chris Butler Impresses Sabres In Training Camp

(above) Associate coach Brian McCutcheon makes a point with DU Alum Chris Butler

From: Buffalo News
by Bucky Gleason

Chris Butler was in town for barely two weeks when he enjoyed one of Buffalo’s finer cultural experiences. He attended the Bills’ season-opening victory over the Seattle Seahawks, just an anonymous visitor who quickly came to appreciate the fans here before they had a chance to appreciate him.

A few hours along One Bills Drive shouldn’t have been anything shocking for the 21-year-old defenseman. He was born and raised in St. Louis and spent three years playing for the University of Denver. Both are among the most feverish sports towns in America, but Butler sensed a drastic difference during his day at The Ralph.

“You definitely notice that the people here love their sports,” Butler said. “You walk around St. Louis, and you don’t see people in Rams hats or Blues hats. Everywhere you go here, people have a Bills jersey on or a Sabres hat. They live and die for their sports here, which is good and bad. You have great fans, but there’s a lot of pressure.”

Pretty perceptive kid, Chris Butler. Spend a few minutes with him, and you wonder whether he was born in St. Louis or South Buffalo Mercy.

Regardless, after he develops his game in Portland and makes his way to Buffalo, he will realize that his first impression was right on the money. Buffalo has been a terrific but tough sports town for generations. The Sabres can only hope that their first impression of Butler also stands the test of time.

Butler played his first professional game Tuesday night and looked like he had been with the Sabres for years. He played a quiet game that suited his style. He was solid in his own end, made smart decisions and effectively moved the puck. He played so well that Sabres coach Lindy Ruff barely noticed him in a 3-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens.

“It’s always a good thing,” Ruff said. “Usually, a young defenseman gets noticed for a terrible giveaway or he gets beat. He showed a lot of composure. His positioning was sound. When you don’t notice a guy or you’re not worried about who you have him out there against, you’re pretty happy with the way things are going.”

Nathan Gerbe and South Buffalo native Tim Kennedy also played well against the Habs. Gerbe scored his first goal of the exhibition season when he nuked a slap shot into the top corner. Kennedy looked more comfortable as the game went along and was particularly effective on the penalty kill.

You know Gerbe and Kennedy. The book on Butler is as simple as his style. He’s not going to dazzle anyone with his speed or puck-handling, although he’s very good in both areas. He’s not going to overwhelm anyone physically, but he’s strong enough and plenty tough at 6-foot-1, 202 pounds. He’s also not one to make glaring mistakes.

See: Numminen, Teppo.

Butler was mostly paired with rookie Mike Card and third-year defenseman Nathan Paetsch against the Canadiens. The Sabres gave up two short-handed goals, neither of which were Butler’s doing. If anything, he was one of the Sabres’ better defensemen in a game littered with breakdowns during his professional debut.

“He seems like a good well-rounded defenseman,” Sabres veteran Toni Lydman said. “There doesn’t seem to be a weak spot. He’s good-sized, a strong guy, a good skater, and he gets the puck up [the ice]. He has that patience and composure that you usually get with age. Only some young guys have it. He’s one of them, definitely.”

Butler’s patience should serve him before he makes the jump to the NHL. The Sabres are expected to take their time grooming him, as they do with most young players and almost all young defensemen. The learning curve at his position is generally longer than for forwards, so he can expect considerable time in Portland this season.

Plus, the Sabres are deep with defensemen going into the season. Buffalo’s top six appear set with Mike Weber and Andrej Sekera battling for the seventh spot. Ruff suggested that Butler playing three years in college could accelerate his development. He’s about 19 months older than Weber, who was impressive last season.

“There are some older guys here, and it’s a great chance for me to come in and learn,” Butler said. “Teppo Numminen has been playing in the league basically since I was born. Just to watch him, you can learn so much from guys like that. It’s a great spot to be a young defenseman. As a young defenseman, I couldn’t ask for a better situation.”

Seats Available For Hall Of Fame Dinner

From: Denver Post Blog
by Terry Frei

Brian Leetch, Brett Hull, Mike Richter and Cammi Granato will be inducted into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame on October 10 at an induction dinner at Magness Arena, on the night before the DU-Notre Dame Hall of Fame Game.

The dinner is not sold out. Tickets to the event are available by calling USA Hockey at 719-538-1184. Individual seats are $100, while tables of eight are available for $750.

WCH Reviews DU Recruit Jason Zucker

(left) Jason Zucker is one of the best 16 year old hockey players in the USA

Western College Hockey Blog reviewed the play of the USNDP-Under 17 Team at the recently completed NAHL Showdown. They had this to say about DU's 2010 incoming recruit Jason Zucker from Las Vegas.
"When I saw Zucker play last year at the Select 15s, I thought he was a nice player, but borderline to make the NTDP team. Over the course of the past year though, he's taken a huge jump in level of play, and now looks like he'll be the team's top center and one of the most complete forwards on the team."

Denver Post Hockey Writer Needs Help

Our favorite Denver Post scribe, Mike Chambers, has asked for reader input on his WCHA preseason ballot. Normally we'd say, "Do your own damn research," but since Chambers is a valuable component of DU hockey coverage, we'll give him a Hall Pass.
Chambers - "I’ve been asked to put together a WCHA preseason team ballot, all-WCHA (players) team, and all-WCHA rookie team, plus WCHA rookie of the year and WCHA player of the year."
Chamber's has been covering Pioneer hockey for [approximately] ten years and this will be his second season with his Denver Post Blog. We love his blog and encourage all fans to leave comments after each article this season to encourage more college hockey coverage in the Post.

Help Chamber's out by selecting the All-WCHA Team, All-Rookie Team, ROY & POY.

Chamber's also has some thoughts on the USA Today Poll released yesterday.

DU Ranked 6th In USA Today Poll

The University of Denver Hockey hockey team is ranked sixth in the first USA Today/USA Hockey Magazine preseason poll of the season.

Last season the Pioneers finished 26-14-1 and won the WCHA conference tournament.

Boston College (25-11-8 last season) was ranked first after winning the NCAA Frozen Four last spring in Denver.

USA Today Hockey Poll

1 Boston College
2 Michigan
3 Notre Dame
4 North Dakota
5 Colorado College
6 Denver
7 New Hampshire
8 Miami (Ohio)
9 Minnesota
10 Boston University
11 Clarkson
12 Michigan State
13 Wisconsin
14 Northern Michigan
15 St. Cloud State

LetsGoDU Top 10 SuperPoll®

1). Denver - Let the good times roll
2). Boston College - 4 more National Championships and they'll be tied with DU
3). Miami - Only two NCAA victories more than St Cloud
4). New Hampshire
- The "Colorado College" of the East
5). Michigan - Playing in the CCHA assures Michigan 20 easy wins a year
6). North Dakota
- Will be interesting to watch Jason Gregoire
7). Notre Dame - Should be tough in the Tourney
8). Minnesota State - Finished last season with a kick
9). St. Cloud - The Frozen Four will be in Washington DC, Husky fans will be fishing in Minnesota
Last). Colorado College - 52 consecutive years ending the season with a loss

The LetsGoDU Super Poll® is a scientific analysis factoring strength of schedule, player statistics and coaching tendencies. Then Denver is automatically placed in the one hole, CC is placed last and the rest of the teams more or less settle where they might likely finish.

Trotter Stands out In Canadiens Scrimmage

(above) Brock Trotter

From: National Post
by Kevin Mio

After shaking the rust off their legs on Saturday with skating and puck-control drills, the Montreal Canadiens got down to business Sunday with a scrimmage.

It was a chance for the players to get some of their timing back and, for the rookies, make an impression on the coaching staff.

"I think everything was positive today," head coach Guy Carbonneau said. "We (the coaches) were very impressed by the conditioning of the players. The tempo was excellent."

Carbonneau was pleased with the play of Brock Trotter, an NCAA standout at the University of Denver signed by the Canadiens near the end of last season.

"Now we'll see how he does against men in the NHL," the coach said.

Trotter registered an assist in the scrimmage, and knows he has a lot left to prove.

"I am in a situation where I have to prove myself and progress up the ranks," he said "So I am just trying to take it one day at a time and show them what I can do throughout the camp."

DU Recruit Off To Fast Start For USNDT

(left) Drew Shore

DU recruit Drew Shore from Denver notched a goal and three assists yesterday to help lead the USNDT-Under 18 Team to a 8-4 victory over North Iowa in the final game of the NAHL Showcase Tournament. In four games this season Shore has 4 goals and 4 assists to lead the team.

Shore has been mentioned as a possible first round draft choice in next summer's NHL Draft. He will enroll at DU next year.

Two other DU recruits are teammate's of Shore. Defenseman William Wrenn has two assists in four games while goaltender Adam Murray lost the only game he started in overtime.

DU Recruit Suffers Season Ending Knee Injury

(above) Shawn Ostrow was expected to be one of the leading scorers in the AJHL this season

According to the Camrose Kodiaks website DU recruit Shawn Ostrow suffered a serious knee injury in the pre-season and will be undergoing surgery to repair a torn ACL.

Recovery time is projected to be up to 8 months and Shawn will continue to rehab the knee in preparation for fulfilling his NCAA scholarship to the University of Denver as opposed to risking an earlier return to the ice.

This is a big blow to the Kodiaks, as Ostrow was expected to be among the league leaders in scoring this season. Camrose has started the season off with four straight losses.

Odds & Ends From Around Pioneer Nation

2010 recruit Jason Zucker from Las Vegas scored two goals for the USNDT-Under 17 team in the second day of the NAHL Showcase. Zucker has three goals in two tournament games. Nick Shore from Denver (younger brother of 2009 DU recruit Drew Shore) chipped in with two assists. Nick Shore is a top notch recruit.

DU alum Peter Mannino saw his first action in the nets for the NY Islanders Rookie Team. The Isle's rookies beat the Bruins rookies yesterday 8-4. Mannino have up two goals and played half the game.

Former Pioneer Ryan Dingle scored the first goal of the game as the Ducks rookies beat the Sharks rookies 3-2. The goal was scored after recent DU alum Andy Thomas was able to control the puck into the corner of the offensive zone.
The Ducks would finally break a scoreless tie on a goal by left winger Ryan Dingle at the 18:40 mark of the first period, an unassisted goal while the two teams were playing at even strength.

“O’Dell had a great win off the draw and then Andy Thomas was able to get it deep in the corner,” said Dingle. “Fortunately, I was able to get to the puck first. I kind of wheeled around the net. The goalie was caught on the other side of the net, so I saw that right away and threw it right at him. It was a nice little break. It was a good offensive play from the get go.”

DU Alums Look To Make Impact In Portland

(left) DU Alum Kevin Dineen

From: LetsGoSabres.com
by Alan Sheldon


Two DU alums figure to play a prominent role with the AHL Portland Pirates this season. Head coach Kevin Dineen and rookie defenseman Chris Butler will be working together in the Buffalo Sabres organization.

This Sabres have a minor league system that in the past helped build the core of today’s team featuring the likes of Derek Roy, Jason Pominville and Paul Gaustad. By becoming the sole-sponsoring NHL franchise for the Portland Pirates, Buffalo now has complete control over their minor league affiliate's roster.

The Sabres have stocked the Pirates with solid veterans, a decent group of former Amerks and possibly the strongest group of NHL prospects that the organization has seen in recent years. The key figure in the molding of these prospects into NHL players will be Portland coach Kevin Dineen.

Dineen possesses a proven track record as an NHL player and as an AHL coach. He should provide the young Portland roster with similar strong guidance that Randy Cunneyworth provided in Rochester. In addition, the hiring of NHL veteran defenseman Eric Weinrich as Dineen's top assistant should help the development of Portland's fresh-faced defense corps.

A key addition on the blueline is University of Denver alum Chris Butler. Butler, the Sabres fourth-round pick in 2005, is an excellent all around defenseman who can quarterback the power play while shutting down the opponent's top forwards. Butler should anchor the Pirates defense, and like Weber last season, he may quickly push for an opportunity in Buffalo.

Vancouver Canucks Release Tom May

(above) Tom May

Recent DU alum Tom May was one of 14 players released by the Vancouver Canucks yesterday.

May played four seasons at the University of Denver and scored the game winning goal in the WCHA Final Five Championship game last season. He scored 18 goals and 17 assists in 123 career games at DU.

May will probably look to sign a professional contract with a minor league organization this Fall.

Lighter Than Usual Turnout For Hockey Campout

(above) DU students pitch their tent in front of Magness Arena on Friday afternoon

From: DU Clarion
by Meagan Brown

Compared to previous years the campout for hockey tickets was minimal, most students chose to see Swollen Members on Driscoll Lawn instead of pitching their tents by the box office Friday night.

"I was shocked at how low the turnout was this year," said sophomore Liz Glissmeyer. "Everybody was really into it last year but I think the concert was a big distraction."

Though more students attended the concert than the campout, a few die-hard fans braved the rain and stuck it out through the night. Freshman Matt Bick waited all day and night for the season tickets.

"I got here at two thirty this afternoon," said Bick. Most other people showed up around eight that night. "I've been here all day but its still been pretty fun," said Bick who passed the time playing cards with friends and reading magazines.

While last year the tents stretched toward the lacrosse field, this year they barely made it down the Ritchie Center steps by the ticket office. The music and sounds of college students laughing and enjoying themselves were not found at the campout as they have in years past. This year the music was coming from a different part of campus, Boone Stock on nearby Driscoll Lawn.

Some said it was only poor timing that resulted in a weak turnout, not lack of interest from fans.

Tickets will be available to students on the Monday prior to each home game this season.

"We have an awesome home schedule, including the Hall of Fame game against Notre Dame," said Erich Bacher, Director of DU Athletic Media Relations. Other home games this season include Wisconsin, Colorado College, Minnesota and Ohio State.

2008-09 DU Hockey Television Schedule

FSN Rocky Mountain will telecast 18 regular season University of Denver hockey games. This makes the eighth consecutive year FSN has telecast DU hockey games and the 15th season overall.
2008-09 DU Hockey Telecast Schedule

Date - Time - Opponent

Oct. 17 - 7:30 p.m. - Wisconsin
Oct. 24 - 7:30 p.m. - Ohio State
Oct. 31 - 7:30 p.m. - Colorado College
Nov. 21 - 9:30 p.m. - Minnesota* (tape delay)
Nov. 22 - 7 p.m. - Minnesota*
Jan. 2 - 7 p.m. - Holy Cross (Denver Cup)
Jan. 3 - 7 p.m. - BU/RPI (Denver Cup)
Jan. 9 - 7:30 p.m. - Michigan Tech
Jan. 10 - 7 p.m. - Michigan Tech
Jan. 23 - 6:30 p.m. - @ North Dakota
Jan. 24 - 6 p.m. - @ North Dakota
Jan. 30 - 7:30 p.m. - Alaska Anchorage
Jan. 31 - 7 p.m. - Alaska Anchorage
Feb. 13 - 7:30 p.m. - @ Colorado College
Feb. 21 - 8:30 p.m. - @ Wisconsin* (tape delay)
Feb. 27 - 7:30 p.m. - St. Cloud State
Feb. 28 - 7 p.m. - St. Cloud State
March 7 - 7 p.m. - Colorado College

*Produced by FSN North

Paukovich Involved In Another Scary Hit

(left) Former Pioneer Geoff Paukovich

From: Edmonton Sun
by Derek Van Diest


CAMROSE -- It was eerie similar for Geoff Paukovich.

Three years ago the Edmonton Oilers prospect hit an opponent from behind during an NCAA playoff game breaking his neck.

Last night he drilled Flames prospect Kyle Greentree from behind sending him off on a stretcher.

"Things happen pretty fast, I was just trying to be physical down low which is what I have to do to be successful," Paukovich said. "I have to make guys not want to play in their defensive zone.

"All I can say is I hope he's OK and he can come back and have a good camp with Calgary. There was no intent, I don't play the game trying to hurt people. I was just trying to play physical and it was just something that happened."

Paukovich, 22, received a five-minute boarding penalty and a game misconduct as the Oilers rookies lost 1-0 to the Flames rookies last night at the Encana Arena in Camrose.

Greentree managed to eventually get up, but was placed on a gurney and taken to the hospital. There was no report on his status after the game.

"With Geoff, I thought he was pretty tight on him and when he made the turn, I thought he just finished him off," said coach Jeff Truitt, who was in charge of the Oilers last night. "I don't think it was anything vicious. He wasn't in a wide area off the boards or anything like that to make it a bad-looking hit.

"It was unfortunate and we hope (Greentree) is OK."

Three years ago while at the University of Denver, Paukovich drilled University of North Dakota defenceman Rob Bina from behind. He received a one-game suspension from the league and his coach tacked on another.

Bina missed the entire following season.

Ironically, Bina is also attending the Oilers rookie camp having signed a one-year minor league contract.

"That was three years ago, that was a different situation, a different set of circumstances and a different place," Paukovich said. "I know Rob and I have both put it behind us."

DU Website Features Season Tix Campout Photos

(above) DU students gather in line Saturday morning to reserve 2008-09 hockey season tickets

(above) DU players greet the students waiting in line

(above) Junior Rhett Rakhshani poses with a student waiting in line

The DU Athletics Website has 29 photos from the DU campout and season ticket line at Magness Arena on Saturday morning.


Boone Stock & Hockey Ticket Campout Tonight

(above) DU students will be pitching their tents tonight to purchase DU hockey season tickets on Saturday morning

The University of Denver Programming Board kicks off the 2008 school year tonight with the 1st Annual BOONE STOCK '08 Music Festival! DU's own Becktet and The Foot will be opening for SWOLLEN MEMBERS with special guests (N1NTH) CLOUD and DJ tomPHIL-e!

This event is FREE - open to anyone. Invite your friends to the show!

After the show, follow the signs to traditional campout for DU Student season tickets going on-sale at 8 AM Saturday morning - North Box Office. Limited tickets available!

Event Info
Date: Friday, September 12, 2008
Time: 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Driscoll Lawn

.

Future DU Hockey Dad Frees Up His Schedule

(left) Larry Donovan will spend more time watching his son Matt play hockey next season for Cedar Rapids next season

From: NewsOK.com

Future DU hockey dad and University of Oklahoma club hockey coach Larry Donovan has resigned as head coach, and assistant Tom Murphy has been promoted to fill the vacancy.

Donovan, who guided the Sooners to a 74-22-1 record in five seasons, will be an assistant with the team. The reason for leaving the head post is so he can spend more time with family — and travel to see son Matthew play in the USHL with Cedar Rapids. Matthew Donovan, who was selected by the New York Islanders in the fourth round of this year's NHL Draft, will play at the University of Denver in 2009.

"I intend to remain as involved as I possibly can with OU hockey,” Larry Donovan said. "This transition will allow me some flexibility to travel to see Matt, as well as see more of my wife and daughter, more often than I could if I remained head coach.”

"Larry has established a high standard of excellence at OU hockey,” Murphy said. "I'm ready to continue that tradition and can't wait for the season to get underway.”

Pioneers Website Features DU Season Preview

(left) Rhett Rakshani

The seven-time NCAA champion Denver Pioneers returned to national prominence last season after missing the NCAA Tournament in 2006 and 2007.

Led by the stellar goaltending of Peter Mannino, DU captured its league-leading 15th WCHA playoff championship, advanced to its 19th NCAA Tournament and won 26 games overall.

The 2008-09 season presents new challenges for the Pioneers, who are extremely skilled and fast, but the goals remain the same. Become a team, gain home ice for the WCHA playoffs, and advance to the WCHA Final Five and NCAA Tournament.

Reclaiming the Gold Pan Trophy from in-state rival Colorado College is also a top priority for the 2008-09 Pioneers. (read rest of article on DU Website in "Media Section")

Hockey's Future Ranks Incoming Frosh Wiercioch

(above) DU is counting on Patrick Wiercioch to make an immediate impact this season

From: Hockey's Future
Profile Contributed By: HF Staff


Patrick Wiercioch
NHL Prospect Grade: 7.0 C

History

2006-07: Played for the Burnaby Express in the BCHL. Named the team’s rookie of the year.

2007-08: Joined to the Omaha Lancers as an import player for his first season in the USHL Broke his right-thumb late in November and missed 20 games as a result. Was one of the leaders in Omaha’s Anderson Cup run.

Talent Analysis

Wiercioch has a nice blend of size and skill. He’s a good all around defenseman who can play in many different situations. A mobile puck moving defenseman, he has very good hands but needs to better his skating. Needs to add some size and strength to become effective down the road. Has the smarts and know how to be effective.

Imagine Our School With Boone Back On Campus



The short video clip we've linked above provides a montage of the best Boone photos we've posted on LetsGoDU over the past three years. The photos were taken in Maine, Boston, Alaska, Colorado Springs, on the ski slopes and around campus. The embattled DU mascot has certainly has racked up the frequent flier miles.

Thanks go out to all the DU fans that have sent us their Boone photos over the years. Enjoy.

Free Boone

DU Administrators: FREE BOONE

Boonestock Kicks Off DU Hockey Ticket Campout

(above) Swollen Members have been dubbed, "two of the most innovative people in hip-hop," will play on the Driscoll Lawn on Friday night

The University of Denver Programming Board kicks off the 2008 school year with the 1st Annual BOONE STOCK '08 Music Festival! DU's own Becktet and The Foot will be opening for SWOLLEN MEMBERS with special guests (N1NTH) CLOUD and DJ tomPHIL-e!

This event is FREE - open to anyone. Invite your friends to the show!

This event is sponsored by DUPB, with contributions from DU Athletics, RHA, Student Media Board, Greek Council and Late Night at DU.

After the show, follow the signs to traditional camp out for DU Student season tickets going on-sale at 8 AM Saturday morning - North Box Office. Limited tickets available!

Event Info

Host: DUPB
Type: Music/Arts - Concert
Date: Friday, September 12, 2008
Time: 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Driscoll Lawn
Street: 2190 E. Asbury Ave
City/Town: Denver, CO

DU Individual Game Tickets Go On Sale Today

(above) Lets hope that this DU student has spent little more time in the weight room this off season

The University of Denver hockey team will put individual game tickets on sale starting Saturday at 10 a.m. Call the DU box office at 303-871-2336 for more information.

The Pioneers are scheduled to play 21 regular-season home games at Magness Arena and one exhibition game.

DU opens its regular season Oct. 11 against Notre Dame in the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game honoring new inductees Brett Hull, Cammi Granato, Mike Richter and Brian Leetch.

The Student Season Ticket Campout & Boone Stock'08 concert will begin next week on Friday Sept 12th.
  • 10/4 Univ. Alberta (Ex) 7:05 PM
  • 10/11 Notre Dame 7:05 PM
  • 10/17 Wisconsin 7:35 PM
  • 10/18 Wisconsin 7:35 PM
  • 10/24 Ohio State
  • 10/25 Ohio State
  • 10/31 Colorado College
  • 11/2 @ Colorado College - ESPNU
  • 11/7 Minnesota Duluth
  • 11/8 Minnesota Duluth
  • 11/14 @ St. Cloud
  • 11/15 @ St. Cloud
  • 11/21 Minnesota
  • 11/22 Minnesota
  • 11/28 Colgate
  • 11/29 Air Force
  • 12/5 @ Michigan Tech
  • 12/6 @ Michigan Tech
  • 12/13 @ Minnesota State
  • 12/14 @ Minnesota State
  • 1/2 Holy Cross (Denver Cup)
  • 1/3 RPI or BU (Denver Cup)
  • 1/9 Michigan Tech
  • 1/10 Michigan Tech
  • 1/23 @ North Dakota - FSNRM
  • 1/24 @ North Dakota - FSNRM
  • 1/30 Alaska Anchorage
  • 1/31 Alaska Anchorage
  • 2/6 @ Minnesota Duluth
  • 2/7 @ Minnesota Duluth
  • 2/13 @ Colorado College
  • 2/20 @ Wisconsin - FSNRM
  • 2/21 @ Wisconsin - FSNRM
  • 2/27 St. Cloud
  • 2/28 St. Cloud
  • 3/7 Colorado College - FSNRM
  • 3/13-15 WCHA Playoffs

The Pep Band Will Return To Hockey Games

Good news in the school spirit department. For the first time in years, DU's Pep Band will make semi-regular appearances at Denver hockey games this Winter.

The pep band will appear at 11 games this season starting off with a rematch of last season's NCAA playoffs against Wisconsin. (Full schedule below)

Its been a long hiatus for the Pep Band at hockey games (DU tends to use its band mostly for basketball) and many readers of this blog have long clamored for more "collegiate atmosphere" at Magness Arena. This is a big step forward for our fans and the pep band program, and should help provide a better atmosphere at the games.

While we're on the topic...
Please locate the band in the middle of the student section.
October 17 - Wisconsin
October 25 - Ohio State (HC)
October 31 - Colorado College
November 8 - Minnesota-Duluth
November 21 - Minnesota
November 29 - Air Force
January 2 - Holy Cross
January 30 - Alaska Anchorage
February 28 - St. Cloud
March 7 - Colorado College
March 13 - WCHA Playoffs

Slate.com Links To LetsGoDU Article

Its only a matter of time before LetsGoDU becomes required reading for Poly-Sci classes on college campuses across America. Our parody comparing "Soccer Moms to Hockey Mom's" was linked in an article in Slate.com.
"Hockey partisans on the Internet—see here, here, and here—also claim that hockey moms are a bit more intense than their soccer counterparts, both in terms of the commitments they make to the sport and the intensity with which they cheer their kids."
Slate.com is an online current affairs and culture magazine created in 1996 by former New Republic editor Michael Kinsley. Since 2008 Slate has been run by the Washington Post.

Our "Hockey Mom" article was also linked by The World Of Junior Hockey & the North Dakota themed hockey blog Goon's World. Thanks to America's most famous Hockey Mom, LetsGoDU is getting lots of run on the internet.

The Pipeline Show Interviews Jesse Martin

(left) Jesse Martin

The Pipeline Show based in Edmonton interviews the top NHL prospects in North America. On August 12th they interviewed DU Sophomore Jesse Martin and its one of the best interviews we've linked to.

Jesse talks about the USHL, coming to Denver, the DU student section and his development as a player.
Best Quote - "At Denver [hockey] is the #1 sport there. There's no football or basketball to compete with."
In the past The Pipeline Show has interviewed DU Alum Geoff Paukovich and featured blog postings from incoming DU Freshman Joe Colborne.

About The Pipeline Show
Hosts Dean Millard and resident prospect guru Guy Flaming guide listeners through the various junior, college and minor pro leagues, shining a spotlight on an otherwise largely uncovered landscape. The World Junior Championships, the Frozen Four tournament of the NCAA, the Memorial Cup and the NHL Entry Draft covered.

Michael Zucker Returns To DU In New Role

(left) Michael Zucker is DU's new Volunteer Assistant Coach

Sources: ZoomInfo & DU Website

Michael Zucker returns to DU as the new volunteer assistant coach this season. Three years ago he was the head coach of the University of Denver's club hockey team in the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) where he helped lead DU to a 6th place finish in the Western Conference.

Zucker arrives at DU after spending the last three years as an assistant coach with the Western Hockey League’s (WHL) Everett Silvertips.

For the past five years Michael has been on the USA Hockey Rocky Mountain coaching staff having participated in the District Camps as well as the National 15 Festival in St. Cloud.

“We are pleased to name Michael Zucker as our new volunteer assistant coach,” Gwozdecky said. “Michael brings a lot of coaching and tremendous technical video experience to our program.”

Zucker begins his 12th year of coaching and his responsibilities at DU will include assisting in practice planning, breaking down and analyzing game video, individual teaching and on-ice skill development.

The Morganville, N.J., native is a 1997 graduate and former club player at the University of Colorado. Zucker earned a bachelor's degree in business administration with an emphasis in information systems in 1997 from CU’s Leeds School of Business.

NY Fishwrap Claims Denver Owns Minnesota

(above) It sure was nice of St. Paul taxpayers to build a home ice advantage for Denver based hockey teams

From: New York Daily News
by Elliot Olshansky
Daily News New Media Editor


If this year's events at the Xcel Energy Center are any guide, the Republican Party might have wanted to think twice before choosing the arena in St. Paul for the site of the 2008 Republican National Convention.

Home to the NHL's Minnesota Wild, the Xcel Energy Center - a.k.a. "The X" - is truly a hockey arena, not just an arena where a hockey team happens to play. From the high school hockey jerseys that ring the concourses to the NHL team banners that hang from the rafters to the statue of "Miracle on Ice" coach Herb Brooks outside, the building itself is a virtual shrine to the sport. It stands as a tribute to Minnesota's reputation as "The State of Hockey."

So, what's the problem? Suffice it to say that it hasn't been a good year for hockey in St. Paul, especially when it comes to opposition from Denver, where the Democrats held their convention.

On March 22, in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association's championship game, the University of Denver beat the University of Minnesota at the X. Less than three weeks later, the Stanley Cup Playoffs began in St. Paul, and the Colorado Avalanche beat the Wild on an overtime goal, and eventually won the series in six games.

Putting it simply, Denver vs. Minnesota hasn't ended well for Minnesota so far.

But Denver's dominance on the ice so far this year doesn't necessarily mean Republicans should be frozen with fear.

In this case, though, the argument can be made that one way or another, Denver will trump Minnesota again. Either because the home of the Republican National Convention didn't produce enough of a bounce, or because the state that has gone for Democrat in nine out of the last 10 elections backed the wrong side.

The answer to that question, of course, remains to be seen. In the meantime, for the Republicans, 'The X' marks the spot.

Hockey's Future Profiles Jesse Martin

(above) Jesse Martin (#12) was drafted by the NHL's Atlanta Thrashers in 2006

From: Hockey's Future

DU player Jesse Martin was listed as one of the Atlanta Thrashers Top 20 Prospects by Hockey's Future this week.
Jesse Martin was selected 7th round, 195th overall, in the 2006 NHL Draft.

As a freshman at Denver, Martin carved out a niche for himself quickly, playing on the second line and getting good ice time. The 5'11, 118-pounder posted 15 points in 41 games.

Martin was invited to attend Thrashers prospect camp the last two years, but Denver told him there was no point in going unless he'd make the team. Instead, they told him to stay in Denver and work out with his teammates at DU. That's what he did, keeping his full attention devoted to college hockey right now.

Martin needs to work on skating and projects as a checker. He’ll remain at Denver for the foreseeable future. Martin turns 20 next week.

Thomas Signs Professional Contract With Iowa

(above) Former DU Captain Andy Thomas helped DU win the 2005 National Championship, two Broadmoor Trophies and a MacNaughton Cup

Former University of Denver captain Andrew Thomas has signed a one-year entry level minor league contract with the Anaheim Ducks of the National Hockey League. Thomas is expected to make his professional debut with the Iowa Chops of the American Hockey League this fall.

Thomas guided the Pioneers to their 15th WCHA playoff championship and return trip to the NCAA Tournament en route to a 26-14-1 mark last season. Thomas netted 26 points in 161 career games for the Pioneers and was a three-time All-WCHA Academic Team honoree. He finished his four-year DU career with 100 wins, one NCAA national championship (2005), two WCHA playoff titles, one WCHA regular-season crown and three Wells Fargo Denver Cup championships. (read rest of article on Denver Pioneers Website)

Boonestock Will Kick Off Student Ticket Campout

Despite efforts by certain DU professors to eradicate Boone's comback on campus, DU's Mascot is not going down without a fight.

Boone has decided to hold a benefit concert for himself on September 12th called Boone Stock '08. Check out the event's Facebook page.
DUPB starts off the 2008 school year with the 1st Annual BOONE STOCK Music Festival! DU's own Becktet and The Foot will be opening for SWOLLEN MEMBERS withspecial guests (N1NTH) CLOUD and DJ tomPHIL-e!
Event Info

Host: DUPB
Type: Music/Arts - Concert
Date:Friday, September 12, 2008
Time: 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Driscoll Lawn
Street: 2190 E. Asbury Ave
City/Town: Denver, CO

This event is FREE - open to anyone. Invite your friends to the show!

This event is sponsored by DUPB, with contributions from DU Athletics, RHA, Student Media Board, Greek Council and Late Night at DU.

After the show, follow the signs to camp out for Denver Hockey student season tickets on-sale at 8 AM September 13 - North Box Office. Limited tickets available!

Hockey's Future Lists John Lee As A "Project"

(above) John Lee will join the Pioneers this Fall

Hockey's Future cited incoming DU Freshman defenseman John Lee as one of the Florida Panthers top 20 prospects.
In the fall, Lee will officially make the move from the USHL to the NCAA with the University of Denver. The move should help to accelerate Lee’s maturation as a player, and so he endures in his location on the top 20 list for the time being, despite coming off an about-average season with the Waterloo Blackhawks. Previously, Lee’s development had been more or less stagnant. Even so, Lee should still be termed something of a project -- progress may not necessarily be immediate -- the fact remains unchanged that he possesses a raw, natural skating ability and hockey sense which has barely been tapped into.

CSU Hockey Starts LLC & Website

(above) The Ram Hockey Group's Website

The folks who want to bring Division 1 hockey to Colorado State University have started the Ram Hockey Group and have a pretty cool new website. Check it out.