INCH Selects DU's Recruiting Class As #2 In USA

(above) DU secures one of the best recruiting classes in the country

InsideCollegeHockey.com has ranked the "Top 15 Recruiting Classes" in the country. They named DU's class as #2.

In what seems like a recent trend, Colorado College was not ranked in the Top 15.

Obviously these rankings should be taken with a grain of salt, because INCH ranked DU's 2004 class #8 (Stastny, Mannino, Dingle, Thomas, May, Paukovich) and seven months later they won a National Championship. Many believe that the 2004 class was DU's best recruiting class in the modern era.

Last season INCH ranked DU's 2008 Class as the 8th best in the country. Colborne, & Wiercioch are now considered All-WCHA elite players just one year later.
INCH Ranks DU's Past Six Recruiting Classes & Key Recruits

2009 - #2 - Shore, Donovan, Wrenn, Murray, S. Ostrow

2008 - #8 - Colborne, Lee, Wiercioch

2007 - #9 - Bozak, Martin, K. Ostrow, Cheverie

2006 - #4 - Rakhshani, Ruegsegger, Brookwell, Seabrook

2005 - #6 - Butler, Trotter, Mullen, Fast

2004 - #8 - Stastny, Mannino, Dingle, Thomas, May, Paukovich

DU Picked To Win MacNaughton By Media

From: Denver Post
by Mike Chambers

Western Collegiate Hockey Association coaches and media covering the league overwhelmingly picked the University of Denver to win the MacNaughton Cup as the regular-season WCHA champion.

The Pioneers received eight of 10 first-place votes in the coaches' poll and 23 of 25 from the media.

Colorado College was picked to finish seventh in the WCHA by the media and eighth by the coaches.

DU, ranked No. 2 behind Miami (Ohio) in Monday's USA Today/USA Hockey Magazine preseason poll, had three players make the media's all-WCHA preseason team: senior forward Rhett Rakhshani, sophomore defenseman Patrick Wiercioch and junior goal- tender Marc Cheverie.

Salary Cap Issues Likey To Send Bozak To AHL

(above) Former University of Denver star Tyler Bozak made an impression with the Toronto Maple Leafs

From: The Star
by Kevin McGran

The Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves in a salary-cap numbers crunch and it looks as if impressive rookie Tyler Bozak is getting caught in the squeeze.

The Leafs are about $6 million (all figures U.S.) over the $56.8 million salary cap and GM Brian Burke must cut the roster to 23 players plus injured reserve by 3 p.m. Wednesday.

The team dropped hints over the last few days that Bozak – who impressed with his hockey sense and playmaking ability – had made the squad alongside fellow rookie forwards Viktor Stalberg and Jay Rosehill. Although no official announcements were made, it now appears the team is backtracking and thinking of sending him to the Marlies.

"If somebody doesn't play well, Bozak has a real good shot to get called back up," coach Ron Wilson said of Bozak. "He'll probably have to go down because of numbers. Based on the way he played in training camp, he's certainly worthy of playing in the NHL, but we may not have room at the beginning."

Indeed, hockey these days is about more than pure talent. It's about the salary cap, and the Leaf braintrust had its work cut out for it Tuesday night as it tried to pare down the roster.

"We'll have to make some moves in the next couple of days," said Wilson. "Some might be short term, some might be longer term. We have body issues and cap issues."

Bozak, a free-agent signing from the University of Denver, sounded far more optimistic.

"I got to play in all situations and show what I could do," he said. "I don't know what's going to happen this year, maybe get some games up (with the Leafs). We'll see."

DU Clarion Has Details On Season Ticket Campout

(above) The DU Clarion student newspaper has full coverage of the Student Season Ticket Campout
“The class of 2013 wants to promote school spirit. We, as a group, feel that spirit is lacking and that’s why we decided to be first in line.”
- DU Freshman Natalie Margason
Hockey fans set up and slept in about 40 tents in front of the Ritchie Center box office to make sure they would be able to purchase tickets for the upcoming season before the tickets sold out.

A group of freshmen pitched the first tent Friday morning, more than 24 hours before the box office opened (read rest of article).

DU Ranked Second In USA Today Coaches Poll

Mike Chambers has reaction from the players and coaches about the Coaches Poll in today's Denver Post.

DU Picked To Win WCHA In Coaches Poll

From: Grand Forks Herald
by Brad Elliott Schlossman


Denver is the preseason pick to win the WCHA league championship in the 39th annual Grand Forks Herald WCHA preseason coaches poll. The Pioneers gained eight of 10 first-place votes to finish ahead of UND, Wisconsin, Minnesota and St. Cloud State in the poll. The Sioux received the other two first-place votes.

“We were fortunate enough not to lose too many players, other than our senior class and Tyler Bozak,” Denver coach George Gwozdecky said. “We have a majority of our team from last year coming back. Once the season begins, who knows? I don’t know how many times the coaches poll has been accurate, but I’d be willing to wager, more times than not, they’ve been wrong.

“The monkey is on our back this year.”

Indeed, the coaches haven’t always been able to pick the winner. Only twice in the past eight years have they been right. Last season, projected winner Colorado College finished fourth.

“I think the poll makes for some interesting talk, but that’s about it,” Gwozdecky said. “Our players will look at it and say, ‘OK.’ They don’t have any bearing on how we play this coming Sunday night, and they don’t have any bearing on the games thereafter. The poll is just where everybody thinks people are when the season begins.

“We’ve got to play hard and take care of the little things. In this league, things are so difficult and competitive. There’s such a fine line between success and failure. It’s usually not determined by better talent, but how the talent plays together.”

Grand Forks Herald WCHA Coaches Poll

1. Denver (8) 80

2. UND (2) 70

3. Wisconsin 61

4. Minnesota 58

5. St. Cloud State 55

6. Minn.-Duluth 37

7. MSU-Mankato 34

8. Colorado College 26

9. Alaska-Anchorage 20

10. Michigan Tech 9


Chambers' Blog Has Details On Jackson's Injury

Mike Chambers Blog contains comments from DU Head Coach George Gwozdecky about Dustin Jackson's recent season ending injury. One of the interesting subplots that hasn't been mentioned elsewhere is that Jackson may "redshirt" this season. Check out the article.

North Dakota Blogger Goes On Sexist Rant

(above) A UND hockey blog made a variety of sexist and vulgar comments about Denver based TV reporter Alanna Rizzo in a recent posting

University of North Dakota hockey blog "Sioux Yeah, Yeah" went on a sexist rant in a recent posting. The blog called Denver based sports reporter Alanna Rizzo a variety of sexist and demeaning names that are too vulgar to print here.

It will be interesting to see if the University of North Dakota will continue to tolerate this type of behavior from its fans. The blogger in question is obviously no rocket scientist, because he has the Fighting Sioux trademark displayed prominently on his site.

DU Students Quickly Snap Up Season Tickets

(above) DU student, Rachel Conkey, rests her head on a makeshift pillow while hundreds of students wait in line behind her to snap up student hockey tickets on Saturday morning


(left) The new Boone student mascot made several appearances at the Campout and the response from students was overwhelmingly positive


From all reports, DU's 2009 Campout and and hockey season ticket sale was a tremendous success. Students began camping out at 9 AM on Friday morning and attendance was significantly higher than last year. Better weather, a massive Freshman turnout, a steady stream of food and better organization was credited by students attending the event.

The Season Tickets on offer sold-out in 90 minutes, as opposed to last year, when season tickets were still available two days after the campout. By selling the tickets to eager underclassmen, the student section should be significantly more robust this season.

A true "Tent City" emerged steadily throughout the day Friday, made up mostly of Freshmen and their enthusiasm was infectious.

Coach George Gwozdecky made a rare 10 PM appearance, shaking hands with students and chatting up the crowd. The night’s festivities continued with d.u.g.s. members (DU Grilling Society) cooking for all present.

d.u.g.s provided S’mores and hot chocolate for the students, turned the huge grill into an oven to make late night frozen pizzas and in the morning greeted students with ham steaks, sausage and home-made French toast.

While the freshman stepped it up from the get go, sophomore students came through with a healthy turnout later on Friday evening. As the tents emptied early Saturday morning, the upperclassmen began to file in for their crack at tickets.

Last year, there were plenty of games when Magness’ Student Section wasn't close to capacity. This year, students without season tickets will have to buy their one-game tickets between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Monday mornings or risk of getting shut-out of the hockey games.

DU fans can expect to see a reinvigorated student section this season at Magness Arena. d.u.g.s. will also be continuing their momentum with tailgating events on Saturday's throughout the season.

Boone's Presence On Facebook Grows

(above) The Denver Boone Facebook Group is still growing

At last count Denver Boone has 2,250 "Friends" on Facebook. If you're a Facebook member, make sure you link up with Denver Boone ASAP.
Other Facebook Groups

Student Season Ticket Campout Begins On Friday

(above) The lines for student season tickets are expected to be the longest in history this weekend

500 highly sought after student season ticket packages will be up for grabs this weekend. DU is entering the season as the #1 team in the country in the early preseason polls.

Student who camp out overnight will have first shot at the tickets which are expected to be snapped up faster than food stamps at a North Dakota trailer park.

The tickets for the 2009-10 Denver Pioneer hockey team will go on sale Saturday, Sept. 26 at 8 a.m. at the Ritchie Center North Box Office. DU hockey student season tickets cost $52 for 13 games and students are limited to one ticket each with a valid DU student ID.

The DU Grilling Society will be providing BBQ for the students during the Campout.

Matt Carle To Be Paired With Pronger In Philly

(above) DU Alum Matt Carle is congratulated after scoring a first period goal last night

From: Philadelphia Daily News
by Frank Seravalli

DU alum Matt Carle has learned a lot from Chris Pronger in the short time they have been able to work together since Flyers training camp opened 12 days ago.

The biggest lesson for Carle, so far, has just been about keeping up.

Pronger averaged more than 27 minutes of ice time last year with the Anaheim Ducks. An effortless skater and workhorse, Pronger has efficiently managed his energy to play nearly that many minutes every game for the last 15 years.

The only problem is that Pronger needs someone to skate with him - a partner in crime with whom to log all of those extra minutes. For the Flyers, it's a good problem to have.

Carle, Pronger's cohort, has never played close to as many minutes in his four year NHL career. Carle was just over 21 minutes last year - and at times saw fewer than 20. Last night, Carle and Pronger were both close to 28 minutes in a 2-1 overtime win against the Devils. And that's just in the preseason.

The last time Carle played this much was at the University of Denver 3 years ago when he was a junior.

"It's an experience, for sure," said Carle, who scored a power-play goal in the first period last night. "You're playing against the other team's top line all night. Aside from a few games here and there with injuries when I was with San Jose [last in 2007-08], I have never really been relied on as a top pair guy."

Carle sat down with coach John Stevens and general manager Paul Holmgren in the summer - before the Flyers went out and nabbed Pronger from Anaheim - and told him to get ready for a bigger role this season.

That talk, Carle said, kickstarted his workouts.

"It's definitely something you've got to be prepared for," Carle said. "It's something that you work for in the summer."

For Pronger, the minutes fuel his summer plans.

"That's why you put the work in the summer," Pronger said. "You train like you're going to be out there a lot. That hard work you put in the offseason pays off here in the beginning of the season and later towards the end.

"Carle is a guy that moves the puck well and makes good decisions. He makes a good first pass, he makes the safe play and he is patient with the puck - that's often overlooked."

Stevens is not worried about Carle having to make any adjustments, although his ice time could change if Pronger is paired with either Timonen or Coburn once the regular season starts.

"I think if you ask anyone, the more you play the better it is for them," Stevens said. "I haven't had a player come to me yet and say he's been playing too much, so I don't anticipate Matty knocking any time soon.

"He's a good player. I think that 1 year in San Jose he played an awful lot, put up some big numbers, and I think he's anxious for more opportunity here."

Carle agreed. He thinks it's easier to get into a rhythm with more time.

"It almost makes it a little easier when you're going that much," Carle said. "I've been a sixth or seventh guy before, playing maybe 12 or 14 minutes. You finally get on the ice and your legs aren't there. Then you go and sit another 4 or 5 minutes between shifts.

"I'm not there yet and I've still got a ways to go, [but] you always want to be a player of that top pair caliber."

DU #1 In Sporting News College Hockey Poll

(above) DU is #1 in another college hockey poll

The Sporting News' Top 20 Preseason Poll ranks the University of Denver first in the nation, according to the magazine's 2009-10 Hockey Yearbook. Denver, who finished 23-12-5 last season.

The Pioneers were followed by Miami (Ohio) (23-13-5), Michigan (29-11-0) & UMass-Lowell (20-16-2) to round out the top four, while Notre Dame (31-6-3) comes in at number five.

Continuing a recent trend, Colorado College was unranked.

Bozak Joins The Frat Pack In Toronto

(above) Viktor Stalberg (U. of Vermont), Tyler Bozak (DU) & Christian Hansen (Notre Dame) form the Frat Pack in Toronto

From: TSN.com

First there was the Rat Pack. Then there was the Brat Pack.

And now...the Frat Pack?

That would be the self-proclaimed title for Maple Leafs prospects Christian Hanson, Tyler Bozak and Viktor Stalberg - three NCAA products born in 1986, all three of whom have been dazzling head coach Ron Wilson thus far, playing on a line together in the pre-season.

Wilson tried something different on Wednesday, and split up the line for Wednesday's exhibition game against the Buffalo Sabres. He could be seeing how well they can perform apart from one another, but the presence of the Frat Pack has already been established in camp and has raised plenty of eyebrows.

"It's just fun that people care, I guess, and notice us out there," said Stalberg. "What our name is doesn't really matter - it's pretty irrelevant right now. We're trying to make a case for us playing up in the big leagues this year, so if people notice us out there that's a good thing."

The trio has also been living together in Toronto and that off-ice bond likely doesn't hurt when it comes to gelling on the ice.

"I think we've been able to find good chemistry right off the bat," said Bozak. "We've played well together just kind of using our speed and trying to read off each other."

While they seem to have plenty in common, the 23-year-olds were all born in different countries and played for different teams in college.

It's well known that Christian is the son of Dave Hanson, one of the three famed Hanson brothers from the 1977 cult favourite hockey flick "Slap Shot". Hanson spent his college time at Notre Dame and appeared in five games with the blue and white last season.

Bozak, the 6'1" Regina native, came out of the University of Denver and was signed to an entry-level contract with Toronto back in April. He has a goal and two assists in three exhibition games.

Stalberg, a 6'3" Swede who was selected 161st overall by the Leafs in the 2006 Entry Draft, came out of the University of Vermont and was a First Team All-American in 2009. He has two goals and an assist along with 12 shots in four pre-season games.

And it hasn't taken the trio long to figure out how to play to the strengths of each man.

"I think we're finding each other pretty well out there on the ice," said Stalberg. "We complement each other pretty well. Hanson is a big guy who does a lot of the dirty work in the corners, Tyler is obviously a great playmaker, and I try to contribute with my speed and get some goals."

So here's the dilemma for the Leafs' brass: it's a pretty full house right now. With veteran players like Matt Stajan, Alex Ponikarovsky and Jason Blake, plus Niklas Hagman, Mikhail Grabovski, and new addition Phil Kessel, there isn't much breathing room in the forward department.

On top of that, the Leafs have several more forwards who could be floating on the bubble, including Jiri Tlusty, John Mitchell, Lee Stempniak and Nikolai Kulemin.

With all those things considered, none of the Frat Pack members are guaranteed a spot when the final cuts are made. Wilson has said he will be making some cuts over the weekend, but confirmed that if the line remains intact, it won't be at the NHL level - for now.

"We want to see different people, in the event that one of them did make the team. We're not going to have all three," said Wilson.

Either way, it's likely good news to Wilson and GM Brian Burke that they'll have plenty of depth to call upon if the team happens to be plagued by injury during the season.

Chancellors Can't Stop Boone - Faculty Can't Contain Him

(above) Boone on the road in Utah

Got an unusual or fun photo of Boone, past or present. Email it to us and we'll post it.

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DU Student Ticket Campout Set For This Weekend

(above) The tents will be pitched in front of Magness Arena on Friday night as students vie for season tickets

Individual student season tickets for the 2009-10 Denver Pioneer hockey team go on sale Saturday, Sept. 26 at 8 a.m. at the Ritchie Center North Box Office. DU hockey student season tickets cost $52 for 13 games and students are limited to one ticket each with a valid DU student ID.

The DU Grilling Society will be providing BBQ for the students.

News & Notes From Around Pioneer Nation

DU Alum Adam Berkhoel, who is recovering from an offseason knee surgery, accompanied the AHL Wilkes Barre-Penguins an exhibition road trip last weekend, but didn’t suit up for the game. Berkhoel had two knee surgeries during the summer and said he is anxious to get back on the ice. “It’s taking a little longer than expected and I want to get back in there and show what I can do,” he said. “I last skated in July and the surgery was nothing major, but I want to get back out there with the guys.”

Tyler Bozak had an assist, as the Toronto Maple Leafs won in a shootout 3-2 over the Stanly Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins in an exhibition game. It looks like Bozak will make the opening night roster for the Maple Leafs.

Former DU player Brock Trotter will play for the Hamilton Bulldogs this season.

University of Denver women's golfer Stephanie Sherlock carded a second-round low 69 on Tuesday to jump atop the leaderboard of the Ron Moore Women's Intercollegiate at Highlands Ranch Golf Club. Sherlock, at 1-under-par 143, is tied with Baylor's Hannah Burke. Denver's Kimberly Kim trails at 1-over 145, tied with first-round leader Alice Kim of Cal-Davis. The Pioneers, ranked No. 5 nationally, pulled away from the pack in the team standings and led Baylor by 13 strokes.

DU's Freshman Class Making Noise on Campus

(above) The class of 2013 packed the new $6.3 million, 2,000-seat soccer stadium at the first home game on Friday, Sept. 11. The 2-1 overtime win against the University of Dayton was a nail biter.
-Photo Credit Michael Furman
More details in The Clarion

Today's Clarion Features Boone On The Masthead

(above) Boone flexes his muscles on the masthead of the DU Clarion student newspaper

Chancellor Coombe must have spit out his Double Low Fat Latte with Skim Milk when he saw the DU Clarion this morning. Not only was Boone proudly on the masthead, but the Clarion kicked off a "Where's Boone?" Contest inside the paper.

Check out all the excitement at www.DUClarion.com

Dubielewicz Waiting For Shot To Make Wild Roster

(left) DU alum Wade Dubielewicz is waiting for his opportunity to move up the Minnesota Wild's goaltending pecking order

From: Twin Cities.com
by Bruce Brothers

With Niklas Backstrom and Josh Harding firmly holding down the top two goaltending positions for the Wild, Wade Dubielewicz must wait in the wings.

A free-agent signee this summer after ending up in Columbus last season following 21 games in the Russian KHL, Dubielewicz jumped at the opportunity to join the Wild even though he knew he'd come in no better than No. 3 or 4 at his position.

A former All-American at the University of Denver, he said he remembers playing against Gophers during his college hockey days and typically seeing big crowds for high school sectional tournaments at Mariucci Arena.

"It was amazing," he said. "I thought it'd be so cool to play somewhere where the support is that big."

Dubielewicz, who is from Invermere, British Columbia, added that hockey is "huge back home. And when you step into Minnesota, it's almost like stepping into a borough of Canada. It's almost like coming home for a Canadian guy."

At age 30, he needs to show the Wild staff he has "still got it," he said, noting that 30 "is when goalies are supposed to peak."

Dubielewicz, who had not played in an exhibition, accompanied the team to Columbus to back up Harding, but Richards said Harding was expected to play the entire game. The other goalie on the roster is Anton Khudobin.

Dustin Jackson Out For Season With Broken Leg

(left) DU forward Dustin Jackson broke his leg and had surgery last Thursday

DU Junior Forward Dustin Jackson broke his leg on Thursday in a scrimmage and is likely gone for the season. This will affect DU's depth at forward and his physical play will be missed during the WCHA campaign.

Hopefully Jackson will have a complete and full recovery ASAP.

Forwards
Rakhshani (15g, 22a) - Ruegsegger (15g, 11a) - Maiani (11g, 30a)
K. Ostrow (14g, 14a) - Colborne (10g, 21a) - Salazar (15g, 10a)
Martin (10g, 13a) - Shore (Fr.) - S. Ostrow (Fr.)
Gifford (4g, 8a) - Glasser (4g, 3a) - Vossberg (4g, 2a)
[Dewhurst (0g, 1a), Knowlton (Fr.)]
Jackson (3g, 9a) Injured

Defensemen
Wiercioch (12g, 23a) - Lee (0g, 5a)
Donovan (Fr.) - Brookwell (0g, 3a)
Ryder (0g, 6a) - Wrenn (Fr.)
[Nutini (0g, 3a), Phillips (Fr.), Cook (0g, 0a), Brehm (0g, 0a)]

Goaltenders
Chevy (2.34 gaa, .921 sv%)
[Murray (Fr.), Paulgaard (1.61, .917 sv%)]

1st PP
Rakhshani, Colborne, Maiani
Wiercioch, Ruegsegger

2nd PP
K. Ostrow, Shore, Salazar
Donovan, Martin

1st PK
Colborne, K. Ostrow
Wiercioch, Donovan

2nd PK
Martin, Vossberg
Wrenn, Lee

News & Notes From Around Pioneer Nation

DU fans who want to attend games down at the Springs this season against Air Force and/or Colorado College can now purchase tickets online. DU plays CC on December 4th and March 6th in World Arena. Plenty of good seats are available as CC will be residing in the WCHA basement for most of the season. DU will play Air Force on Feb. 6th.

Former DU goaltender Peter Mannino has been assigned to the AHL Chicago Wolves by the Atlanta Thrashers. Mannino made his NHL debut in three games with the New York Islanders last season, notching a 1-1-0 record with a 4.52 goals-against average and .870 save percentage, which includes earning his first career NHL victory in his first NHL start against the Chicago Blackhawks on March 15. The 25-year-old netminder, who backstopped the University of Denver to the 2005 NCAA Championship, also appeared in 34 outings for the Bridgeport Sound Tigers (AHL) during his rookie campaign last year, posting a 17-12-2 record, 2.94 goals-against average and .900 save percentage.

U. Of Minnesota To Breathalize Students Pregame

(Left) Minnesota's new football stadium comes with a few strings attached as the school will make ejected students take a breathalizer if they want to attend future games

From: ESPN.com

Students who get kicked out of a University of Minnesota football game for drunken rowdiness won't be allowed back next time unless they pass an alcohol breath test at the gate -- one of the most extreme attempts yet by colleges to curb misbehavior in the stands.

The new Check BAC policy applies to the 10,000 student season-ticket holders and is modeled after a program started five years ago at the University of Wisconsin.

It is aimed primarily at fans who get blitzed at tailgate parties before entering the Golden Gophers' brand-new TCF Bank Stadium. The sale and possession of alcohol are banned at the 50,000-seat stadium, unlike the team's former home, the Metrodome, which is off campus and not owned by the school.

With the opening of TCF Bank Stadium on the Minnesota campus came stricter policies aimed at reducing excessive, drunken behavior.

"If people come in with a buzz on -- there will be tailgating -- that's fine as long as their behavior doesn't interfere with those around them," said Jerry Reinhart, Minnesota vice provost for student affairs. "Then there will be trouble."

The policy has drawn few complaints from fans.

Patrick Day, a junior who skipped tailgating at the home opener last Saturday to get in line for a good seat in the unreserved student section, said: "I think if you're terrible and puking, then are you really enjoying the game? I've been puked on before. You know, that's just not necessary."

Nine people were ejected during the first game, and one drunken fan was taken from a tailgating lot to detox. Seven of those 10 were students who must now pass a breath test to attend future games. The number of students kicked out Saturday was about the same as usual, the university police department said.

Minnesota drew up its policy after disturbances at other college stadiums and a pair of riots that broke out on its own campus after the Gophers won national hockey championships in 2002 and 2003. The 2003 riot caused more than $150,000 in damage.

Student season-ticket holders who get ejected from one game and want to attend another must go through a special gate where a breath test is administered. If they enter through a regular gate, they will get caught afterward when officials compare the database of used tickets to that of Check BAC students. (BAC stands for blood-alcohol content.)

Students under the drinking age of 21 must test completely clean to enter the stadium. Students 21 or older have to be below 0.08 percent, the legal limit for driving in Minnesota.

The decision to go dry at the new stadium is expected to cost the university about $1 million this year in lost revenue from the sale of suites and other premium seats, along with other costs, officials said.

The NCAA does not track how many schools require breath tests after a drinking offense. But Ervin Cox, assistant dean of students at the University of Wisconsin, said he believes his school and Minnesota are the only ones with such a policy.

Wisconsin officials said the "Show and Blow" program has improved the atmosphere at Camp Randall Stadium, which is also dry.

"The students who are coming sober are having a better time," Cox said. A total of 135 Wisconsin students ran afoul of the policy last year.

About 1,700 students die in alcohol-related accidents every year, and nearly 600,000 are injured, according to the National Institutes of Health. Student sports fans are much more likely to binge drink than nonfans, said Toben Nelson, a University of Minnesota professor who has researched college drinking for more than a decade.

Universities have tried all sorts of strategies for curbing drunkenness. Some have banned the sale of alcohol at their stadiums and put security guards at gates to make sure fans don't bring in their own. Some, like Minnesota, have corralled tailgaters into parking lots patrolled by police.

Stadiums that sell beer are in the minority, but some of those that do so turn off the taps at certain times during games.

Two DU Recruits Shine In USNDT Victory

(above) Jason Zucker and Nick Shore form the nucleus of DU's 2010 recruiting class

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - 2010 DU recruits Nick Shore and Jason Zucker began their final season of junior hockey as the U.S. Under-18 Team blanked the University of Waterloo 8-0 last night.

Justin Faulk (Minnesota-Duluth recruit) scored a goal after he one-timed Nick Shore's (Denver, Colo.) pass from the middle point for a power-play marker at 8:00. Later Jason Zucker (Las Vegas, Nev.) converted on Luke Moffatt's (Michigan recruit) rebound on the right side of the cage to make it 4-0 with just 1:30 remaining in the first period.

The U.S. National Under-18 Team returns to action Thursday (Sept. 24) when it meets the Tri-City Storm at the 2009 United States Hockey League Fall Classic in Sioux City, Iowa.
2010 Recruiting Class
F Jason Zucker (U.S. Under-17)
D David Makowski (Green Bay, USHL)
F Nick Shore (U.S. Under-17)

2011 Recruiting Class
D Scott Mayfield (Youngstown, USHL)

DU Players Cited As "Top Prospects" By Fanhouse

(above) Joe Colborne was listed as the top prospect of the Boston Bruins in a Fanhouse.com article

Former Minnesota Duluth radio announcer Brice Ciskie has written an article for Fanhouse.com. He listed the top prospects for each of the 15 NHL teams in the Eastern Conference.

If you still wonder if DU's recruiting has exploded in recent years, you only have to look at Ciskie's list. Three of the 15 prospects played for DU. Joe Colborne, Patrick Wiercioch and Tyler Bozak were cited in his article.

Denver Voted "Best Lax Town In U.S."

Inside Lacrosse just named Denver the best "Lacrosse Town in the U.S." in a recent survey that factored pro, college & high school lacrosse plus fan interest. Needless to say the preppies in Baltimore and New England weren't amused. Read the comments after the article.

DU Alum Still Playing Hockey In His 70's

(above) DU Alum John MacMillan is still playing hockey at age 73

From: BC Local News.com
by James Clarke

DU Alum John MacMillan won two National Championships at the University of Denver ('58 & '60), was a part of two Stanley Cup winning teams in the NHL ('62 & '64) and in recent years has competed with his old DU teammates in the Snoopy Senior Hockey Tournaments during the summer. His biggest hockey accomplishment however, may be that he's still playing hockey at age 73.

There were a million stories in the big tourney, and one player who certainly characterized the spirit of last week’s World Classic oldtimers hockey tournament was former NHLer John MacMillan. The tournament took place on Victoria Island in British Columbia.

“It’s a beautiful place to come to play, plus I have a brother at the north end of the Island so I get to kill two birds with one stone,” MacMillan, aka Johnny Mac, said easily during our locker room interview prior to his team’s fourth game.

Johnny Mac and the Alberta Oil Sharks 70s team were 3-0 heading into the contest, which they won, and the players were upbeat and quick with the jokes, but all business as they suited up and went through their pre-game rituals.

Last Saturday Johnny Mac and the Sharks bounced the Victoria Blooze 7-1 for gold in their division.

“It’s a great facility, and Al’s done a real good job,” he said of tournament organizer Al Greir, and agreed the competition was very keen, as he cinched up his skates.

A two-time Stanley Cup winner with the Toronto Maple Leafs, this is his second appearance in the Classic — he and his teammates won their division at last year’s event. Born and raised in Alberta, he’s been a regular in the Oil Sharks lineup for a while now, and even though he has called Boise, Idaho home the past 25 years, when it comes to hockey, Johnny Mac said he’s an All-Canadian.

“For sure,” he grinned.

Will he be back, we asked?

“God willing, you bet,” he said, then turned his attention to his shoulder pads.

Johnny Mac at a glance:

According to legendsofhockey.net, right-winger John MacMillan played with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings in the 1960s.

He was best known as a dangerous scorer in college and a reliable two-way forward in the Western league.

Born in Lethbridge, Alberta, MacMillan excelled on the WCJHL’s Lethbridge Native Sons before attending the University of Denver. After scoring 30 goals in 1959-60 he was voted on to the WCHA second all-star team. In 1960-61, the young forward scored three goals and was a solid contributor on a checking line with Bob Pulford and Ron Stewart. He started the next season in the AHL but was recalled half way through the schedule to serve as a utility forward.

That spring MacMillan played three playoff games while helping Toronto win its first of three straight Stanley Cups.

MacMillan was primarily a farmhand the next year and fired 22 goals for the Rochester Americans of the AHL.

He played the first month of the 1963-64 season in Toronto before the Red Wings picked him up on waivers. He split the remainder of the schedule between the NHL and the AHL’s Pittsburgh Hornets then played four playoff games as the Wings reached the finals. After playing three games for Detroit the next season, MacMilllan was a regular in the minors until he retired in 1971. The tricky veteran played his last five pro seasons with the WHL’s San Diego Gulls.

Bozak's Goal Makes ESPN's "Plays Of The Day"

(above) DU Alum Tyler Bozak's goal against the Bruins is #7 on ESPN's "Top 10 Plays Of The Day"

Bozak's NHL Exhibition Goal & Interview


(above) DU Alum Tyler Bozak's first professional goal in an exhibition game last night against Boston

News & Notes From Around Pioneer Nation

It was a memorable night for DU Alum Tyler Bozak in his first NHL exhibition game for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Bozak, shorthanded, turned a 1-on-2 rush into a breakaway. The University of Denver graduate split NHL defensemen Dennis Wideman and Matt Hunwick, flipped the puck past Hunwick, picked it up the other side, and deked goalie Dany Sabourin for a 1-0 lead.

Speaking of Bozak, if you have the NHL Network, tonight's Toronto Maple Leafs exhibition game against the Philadelphia Flyers will be on at 5 PM MST.

DU alum Don Mercier will be hosting a hockey show on Denver Sports Radio.com
this season on Saturdays. He will focus on DU and the Av's. We'll post more details about the show as soon as they become available. Check out DenverSportsRadio.com

DU Alum Scott McConnell has been named the AHL Wilkes-Barre Penguins video coach. The grandson of former Pittsburgh Penguins & Wisconsin Badgers coach Bob Johnson, McConnell played hockey at the University of Denver and was a member of the 2004 National Championship team. His former teammates Connor James & Adam Berkhoel played for Wilkes-Barre last season. Wilkes-Barre is the AHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Former DU Captain J.P. Testwuide will play for the AHL Houston Aeros
this season if all goes well. Testwuide, 24, posted 13 points (3-10=13) and 110 PIM during last season at the University of Denver. He then signed with the Aeros, scoring two points (1-1=2) and adding 14 PIM in 13 playoff games.The Aeros are the AHL affiliate of the Minnesota Wild.

College Hockey News Names DU Preseason #1

College Hockey News released its Preseason Poll today and the University of Denver was named the #1 team in college hockey. With "fair and balanced" hockey coverage like this, who needs the LetsGoDU SuperPoll®?

DU Student Section Shares The Love

(above) DU students show the love for the coach last season

I found this picture on the internet over the summer and have been meaning to post it. The DU Student Season Ticket Campout is September 26-27.
Denver fans show their support for suspended head coach George Gwozdecky during an NCAA college hockey game against Alaska Anchorage in Denver, Friday, Jan. 30, 2009. Gwozdecky was suspended for one game after violating an NCAA rule that does not allow an ejected coach to communicate with team personnel until the game is completed. Gwozdecky communicated via headset to coaches on the bench during a hockey game against North Dakota.

Stop Picking On Colorado College

Colorado Springs Gazette columnist Dave Ramsey writes this week about Colorado College coach Scott Owens.

He points to Scotty's past regular season successes and the players' performance in the classroom. But he also hints that CC alums aren't too thrilled about the direction the program is heading.

Clarion Features Boone In Revamped Website

University of Denver Mascot featured on Clarion Website


The DU Clarion Website was unveiled yesterday and the feature story was about the Boone Mascot Controversy and LetsGoDU's role in bringing back the mascot last year. Check it out.

DU To Play Ohio State In NHL Arena

(above) DU will play Ohio State in Nationwide Arena

Its been rumored for most of the summer, but official confirmation via the Ohio State Website today confirms, DU will play a game against Ohio State in Nationwide Arena.

The second game of the Ohio State men's hockey home series vs. Denver will be played at 7:05 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16 at Nationwide Arena in downtown Columbus, home of the NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets. The first game of the series will be at 7:05 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15 in Value City Arena, the Buckeyes' home rink, on the Ohio State campus.

The teams met in Denver last season, splitting the series Oct. 24-25, 2008. The Pioneers won the opener, 3-1, before the Buckeyes rallied to win the second game, 4-3.

Ohio State is 6-0-2 all-time in games played in Nationwide Arena.

University Of North Dakota Opens "Tent City" Dorm

(above) UND's "Tent City" was busy this weekend as students camped out for hockey season tickets

In an effort to keep skyrocketing housing and tuition costs down, the University of North Dakota will allow students to live in tents this Fall. The program has proven to be quite popular in a state that has been hard hit by the economic downturn.

Since the 1990s, North Dakota has experienced virtually constant decline in population, particularly among younger people with university degrees. One of the major causes of emigration from North Dakota looms from a lack of skilled jobs for graduates.

UND President Robert O. Kelley noted, "Since most of our students grew up in trailers and mobile homes, they are used to living off the land. Besides, they'll be leaving the state after they graduate, so why should build dorms for them."

WCH Blog Picks North Dakota To Win WCHA

Western College Hockey Blog picked the University of North Dakota to win the WCHA this season.

1. North Dakota
2. Denver
3. Wisconsin
4. Minnesota
5. Minnesota-Duluth
6. St. Cloud
7. Colorado College
8. Minnesota State
9. Alaska-Anchorage
10. Michigan Tech

LetsGoDU WCHA SuperPoll®
1). Denver - DU should win in a cakewalk
2). North Dakota - Already in midseason form with three arrests over the summer
3). Wisconsin - 0-5-0 against DU and Patrick Wiercioch last season
4). St. Cloud State - Never won an NCAA playoff game
5). Minnesota - Time to start recruiting outside of Minnesota before things get any worse
6). Duluth - One trip to the NCAA's per decade is par for the course
7). Minnesota State - Will battle Bemidji next season for "Crappiest Team In Minnesota" title
8). UAA - 8th place would actually be their best finish this decade
9). Michigan Tech - If only every weekend was Winter Carnival
Last). Colorado College - What can we say say about CC that hasn't already been said by their recruits who didn't bother even showing up on campus?

News & Notes From Around Pioneer Nation

Toronto Maple Leafs rookie forward Tyler Bozak, a free-agent signing from the University of Denver late last season, continues to impress the Leafs brass, as he did at the rookie tournament last week in Kitchener. "He is going to challenge somebody for a job for sure," said head coach Ron Wilson. "He'll get a lot of play in exhibition games. You can't predict anything, but of all the young people I've seen so far, he's probably been the most impressive."

Former DU Alum J.P. Testwuide is one of around 50 players at the Minnesota Wild training camp. He is there on a "tryout" basis.

The DU Season Ticket Campout for students will be September 25-26. The DU Grilling Societry will be in attendance, grilling food for the students.

DU opens the season against the University of Vermont in just 24 days.

DU & FSN-Rocky Mountain Announce TV Schedule

FSN Rocky Mountain will telecast 19 regular season University of Denver hockey games and six men's basketball games, it was announced today by FSN Rocky Mountain. This marks the ninth consecutive year, and 16th season overall, FSN has telecast DU hockey games (more details on DU's Website).

DU Ice Hockey Schedule On FSN-Rocky Mountain

Date Opponent Time
Fri., Oct. 9 - Vermont 7:30 p.m.
Fri., Oct. 23 - @ Minnesota 6:00 p.m.
Fri., Oct. 30 - Minnesota State 7:30 p.m.
Fri., Nov. 20 - North Dakota 7:30 p.m.
Fri., Nov. 27 - St. Cloud State 7:30 p.m.
Fri., Dec. 4 - @ Colorado College 7:30 p.m.
Sat., Dec. 5 - Colorado College 7:00 p.m.
Fri., Jan. 1 - Nebraska-Omaha (Wells Fargo Denver Cup) 7:30 p.m.
Sat., Jan. 2 - Boston College (Wells Fargo Denver Cup) 7:00 p.m.*
Fri., Jan. 8 - Alaska-Anchorage 7:30 p.m.
Sat., Jan. 9 - Alaska-Anchorage 7:00 p.m.
Fri., Jan. 22 - @ Wisconsin 6:00 p.m.
Sat., Feb. 6 - @ Air Force 7:00 p.m.
Fri., Feb. 12 - Minnesota 7:30 p.m.
Sat., Feb. 13 - Minnesota 7:00 p.m.
Fri., Feb. 19 - Michigan Tech 7:30 p.m.
Sat., Feb. 20 - Michigan Tech 7:00 p.m.
Fri., March 5 - Colorado College 7:30 p.m.
Sat., March 6 - @ Colorado College 7:00 p.m.

A Third Carle Brother In The Pipeline

Editors Note - This past weekend, Hockeys Future writer and part time LetsGoDU contributor DJ Powers was in San Jose for the annual Junior Sharks Labor Day Tournament. It's one of the top Midget Major Tournaments in California, kicking off the new season for elite players with many scouts and recruiters in attendance.


DJ Powers focused much of her attention at the Junior Sharks Day Tournament on the 16AAA group (the top group of 1993-94 birth years). One of the teams hailed from Alaska and the player that really caught her eye was Alex Carle. The youngest of the Carle brothers - yes, Matt and David's brother.

What she really liked about Alex was his skating. He was one of the best skaters that she saw at the tournament in that age group. If Alex decides to follow in Matt and David's footsteps by going the college route and continues to make progress in his development, he could get quite a bit of interest from the top schools in the country, including DU. Alex is just fifteen years old, so he still has a few years to go before he hits a college campus near you (should he decide to go the college route).

His skill set is very good for the level, but he's still learning how to effectively utilize and put all of his tools together. Like Matt & David, his skating was what really stood out.

Should DU continue the brotherly tradition there's Alex Carle (15), Quintin Shore (15) & Baker Shore (9) waiting in the wings. Any little Ostrow brothers out there we don't know about?

DJ Powers Staff Writer - NCAA
www.hockeysfuture.com

DU Alum Ryan Dingle Has Shot At Flyers Roster

(above) DU alum Ryan Dingle has a chance of making the Philadelphia Flyers roster this Fall

From: CSN-Philly.com

Every athlete’s worst nightmare is being part of the “footnote” in a major trade.

It happens. Sometimes, more than once.

Joffrey Lupul, for instance, now has the distinction of twice being traded for Chris Pronger in his NHL career.

First, Lupul was dealt as a member of the Anaheim Ducks, and again this past summer, as part of the Flyers’ trade with the Ducks.

Which brings us to the footnote: DU Alum Ryan Dingle.

The 5-foot-10, 190-pound winger was, as they say in hockey parlance, the “throw-in.” A career minor leaguer who, at age 25, is actually one of the older prospects at Flyers' camp this week at Skate Zone.

“I think I will be known as that guy for a long time,” Dingle said about the asterisk next to his name on most hockey databases. “Obviously, with players of such caliber, and greatness tied to their names, it’s going to be hard to break out of that.

“On the other hand, I’m very excited to be part of that. To be part of a trade with a great deal of talent involved, and to take the next step in my future.”

The trade knock initially upset him.

“When a player gets traded, a lot of things cross your mind,” Dingle said. “First, that the team that you were traded from doesn’t want you any more. Then, I took a step back and realized this was going to be a great opportunity for me. This organization is rich in tradition. I’m really excited to be part of this organization.

“You go from an immediate low, to an immediate high. That turnover was extremely fast. But you are filled with different emotions after a trade.”

The Flyers have never had a “Dingle” on their roster. Fact is, the most famous Dingle we can think of was a television character (Burgess Meredith) in a 1961 episode of “The Twilight Zone.” That Mr. Dingle was given supernatural strength.

The Flyers’ Mr. Dingle would settle for a mere roster spot. And given there is at least one forward spot open, he hopes to snare it.

“It’s very exciting going from a team that had a log jam up front, to a team where there is potential to take that next step forward to a childhood dream,” Dingle said.

An American-born player, the Flyers scouted him when he played three seasons at the University of Denver. Dingle played all three forward positions there. Professionally, he’s been at Portland (AHL), Augusta (ECHL) and the defunct Iowa Chops (AHL) last season.

There’s no question Dingle should make the Phantoms, but the Flyers are hoping he shows them something in the preseason with their full squad that would earn Dingle, at the very least, the right to be a call-up player in the NHL in a third or fourth line role.

“He’s an interesting young kid,” said general manager Paul Holmgren. “We’ve seen him a lot playing in Denver prior to turning pro. I saw him a bit in the AHL for Anaheim. We like his competitive level.

“Like the fact that he can play any position. He is a pesky guy. We’re anxious to see how he does. We have him with the young guys now to [indoctrinate] him to the organization, but I am anxious to see him with our main group. He had a real good camp in Anaheim last year and raised some eyebrows there.”

Not enough to earn a call-up, however. Dingle spent the entire season at Iowa where he played 70 games with 18 points (seven goals) and was minus-eight.

More than anything, he wants to get a shot at the NHL with the Flyers.

“To have that opportunity, for any young hockey player, it’s a childhood dream taking that next step,” Dingle said. “Every year, I played in both leagues, the ECHL and AHL two years ago, and the AHL last year, and I’m hoping to progress each year I go up.”

DU School Spirit On The Upswing?

(above) DU grad student Jason Lundberg reports on Facebook that many DU students are wearing "Denver" gear this Fall on campus. Could school spirit be on the upswing?

Clarkson Hockey Players Charged By Police

(left) Clarkson hockey coach George Roll spent a little time in court on Wednesday with his Freshmen Defensemen and an incoming recruit

From: Newsday.com & Watertown Times

Two men's hockey recruits and a prospective recruit at Clarkson University are accused of having sexual contact with an underage girl.

State police charged 18-year-olds Jordan Ciccarello of New Hartford, Conn., and Patrick McEachen, of Stouffville, Ontario, with sexual misconduct and child endangerment, both misdemeanors. The incident reportedly happened on campus in early July at a hockey camp.

Jordan A. Ciccarello, 18, of New Hartford, Conn., made the pleaded "not guilty" Wednesday before Village Court Judge Joseph T. Welch.

Clarkson prospective recruit Demetri J. Sakaris, 19, Candiac, Quebec, also appeared in court on charges of sexual misconduct and child endangerment.

Judge Welch adjourned their arraignments because paperwork from state police didn't arrive until after court started. Clarkson coach George Roll attended the court hearings.

Mr. Ciccarello and Mr. McEachen, both defensemen, were expected to play this season for the Golden Knights. Mr. Sakaris was looking to attend Clarkson to play hockey for the 2011-12 campaign.

State police say the investigation is continuing.

A Clarkson spokeswoman says the school is cooperating with police and conducting its own investigation. The school could penalize the two freshmen based on their findings. The players' status with the hockey team was unclear.