YouTube: UND's Malone's Hit On Jesse Martin


(above) DU's Jesse Martin was injured on this play and was taken to a Grand Forks hospital. Later he was airlifted to Minneapolis' Hennepin County Medical Center


DU's Jesse Martin sustained three neck fractures to his C-2 vertebrae in Saturday night’s hockey game at North Dakota and was airlifted to Minneapolis after discovering swelling in his spinal cord. Mike Chambers of the Denver Post has more details.

Mike Chambers will post updates in his Denver Post Blog and Monday in the Denver Post.

I received a text message from Chambers at 3 PM MST on Sunday stating that he had been in contact with Jesse's family.
"Jesse Martin still has not walked and has some numbness in his core. He may not need surgery, but things can change in cases like this hour to hour. Martin may need to wear a Halo Brace for three to six months."
We encourage the college hockey community to continue to keep Jesse in your thoughts.

Colorado College Swept At Home

(above) This was a common sight at World Arena this weekend as Minnesota erupted for 13 goals in two games
photo credit: Candace Horgan

Denver 3 - North Dakota 0 FINAL

(above) Four of the last seven times UND has been shutout, it has come against DU. Marc Cheverie had two. Peter Mannino one and now Sam Brittain has the 4th

(above) "Rule Britannia, Britannia Rules The Ice" proclaims the Grand Forks Herald


On a night when Jesse Martin was knocked unconscious and taken to the hospital for observation, the University of Denver hockey team responded with a gutty 3-0 victory against North Dakota. Sam Brittain led the way with his first career shutout.

There is no doubt that the turning point in the game was the vicious hit on Martin. Martin held the puck deep in his own zone, looking to make a pass. He had his head down and didn’t see UND senior forward Brad Malone bearing down for a hit. Malone knocked Martin out.

Martin sustained three neck fractures and is scheduled to have emergency surgery today in Minneapolis to relieve swelling of the spinal cord.

DU looked unsettled on the ensuing five minute power play but scored a beautiful goal on a bang-bang passing sequence as the penalty expired. Bennett to Maiani to Drew Shore who buried the puck.

Jason Zucker scored a shorthanded goal and Kyle Ostrow added an empty netter.



North Dakota 4 - Denver 3

(above) Chay Genoway goes for the puck behind Jason Zucker

(above) For the first time this season DU wore their red road unis

The University of North Dakota defeated DU 4-3 on Friday night in Ralph Engelstad Arena. DU managed to twice jump out to early one goal leads but eventually the Fighting Sioux onslaught wore down the Pioneers.

Jason Zucker scored twice for DU and Matt Donovan scored a beautiful goal in the second period.

DU had just one shot on goal in the second period but managed to leave the rink at the second intermission with the score level at 2-2.

DU Fans Give Wisconsin Showboat The Business

(above) Surprised nobody mentioned this classic photo last week in the Denver Post photo montage [click on photo to enlarge]
Go DU .... Beat North Dakota .... Both Games Televised On FCS-Central & FSSN (DirecTV 617) .... Go DU

Denver Post: DU's Freshman Ready For UND

(above) Freshman Sam Brittain is one of the biggest players on the team

Five months removed from his 18th birthday, University of Denver freshman Sam Brittain has done remarkably well as the youngest goaltender to see action in coach George Gwozdecky's 17-year tenure with the Pioneers [read rest of article].

DU Athletic Department Losing $7 Million Annually

(above) Mike Chambers of the Denver Post has an in-depth article about the finances over at the DU Athletic Department
"Gwozdecky made $221,898 in base salary in the 2008-09 school year, $391,128 when bonuses were included. Scott's base was $300,000, and he earned a total of $412,289 with bonuses."
- Denver Post article
From: Denver Post
by Mike Chambers

Despite having one of the country's premier hockey programs, the University of Denver athletic department is operating on an annual budget deficit of more than $7 million. The massive shortfall is the result of the school's pledge to remain in NCAA Division I in all sports, as well as its effort to upgrade its struggling men's basketball program.

According to documents obtained by The Denver Post, the DU athletic program lost more than $22 million during a three-year period ending June 30, 2007, the deficits growing from $7.1 million to $7.8 million in the third year. DU is a private school and would not make its recent budgets available [read rest of article].

UND Singlehandedly Saves Maine Hockey Program

(above) In case you missed it, the University of Maine hockey team turned a few heads last weekend by sweeping then-second ranked North Dakota at the Alfond Arena

DU vs. CC Roadtrip

DU Pioneers vs. Colorado College Tigers
in Colorado Springs

The University of Denver Office of Alumni Relations invites you to a pre-game reception followed by an exciting evening of DU hockey action. Come cheer on the Pioneers as they take on their WCHA rivals, the Colorado College Tigers! Space is limited so reserve your ticket today (limit 4 tickets)

Saturday, November 6, 2010
5:30 p.m. Pre-Game Reception
7:07 p.m. Puck Drops
Colorado Springs World Arena, Arena Bar
3185 Venetucci Blvd.
Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Cost: $25 per person
Only 20 Tickets left!
Includes game ticket and pre-game food and drinks
Register Online

NHL Network To Rebroadcast Friday's DU Game

The NHL Network will rebroadcast Friday night's game between the University of Denver and the North Dakota Fighting Sioux on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. CST. The NHL Network is seen on numerous cable systems in the United States and is available on channel 403 on Dish Network and channel 215 on DirecTV.

Both games will be televised live on both Fox College Sports-Central (FCS-Central) or FSSN (DirecTV channel 617). FCS-Central is available on almost every cable system in their expanded sports tier.

If you go to a sports bar with DirecTV ask if they have Channel 617 and don't forget to tip your waitress.

Boone Off To Delaware For Mascot Boot Camp

(above) Boone signs autographs at Magness Arena

DU student Zeke Perez will travel to Newark, Delaware this week to attend Dave Raymond's Mascot Boot Camp. Zeke will be traveling with his Boone mascot gear for an intensive three day mascot training unlike any other.

Dave Raymond's Camp is being held on the University of Delaware's campus from Oct 29th-31st. LetsGoDU will have daily updates and photos of Boone at the Camp.

Zeke is the second DU student to attend the Camp in the past three years.

News & Notes From Around Pio Nation

(above) DU alum Scott McConnell is back coaching in the USHL

DU Alum Peter Mannino has been bouncing between the Chicago Wolves (AHL) and Atlanta Thrashers (NHL) this season due to the "Ondrej Pavalec Situation." Yesterday the Thrashers recalled Mannino from the Wolves and reassigned goaltender Pavelec to the Wolves for a conditioning stint. Mannino, 26, was recently with the Thrashers for a six game stretch (Oct. 12 to Oct. 23) and competed against the Tampa Bay Lightning (Oct. 22), finishing with 15 saves. He gave up one goal in 38 minutes of action.
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Three DU recruits gave been named to play in the World Junior A Challange in November in British Columbia. Forward Garrett Allen and defenseman Scott Mayfield both made the Team USA roster. Defenseman Joey Laleggia made the Canada West Team for the same tourney.
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The Chicago Steel have added DU Alum Scott McConnell as an assistant coach for the staff under first-year head coach Jon Waibel. It marks the return of McConnell to the USHL where he has both previously spent time as a coach and as a player.
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Gabe Gauthier has been signed by the Syracuse Crunch of the AHL. He was brought in to provide offense for the Crunch. Gauthier, 26, didn't even have a hockey job until a couple of weeks ago. He was a free agent with nothing cooking until Victoria called. He was home in Denver, stocking shelves at Costco for $11 an hour. Gauthier, who has a wife and a 15-month-old daughter, had the morning shift, starting at 4:30 a.m.

Lee & Brittain Named WCHA Players Of The Week

(above) Lee & Brittain receive WCHA recognition

The WCHA named University of Denver junior John Lee and freshman goaltender Sam Brittain as players of the week, after the Pioneers managed a victory and a tie against Wisconsin.

Defenseman John Lee, whose strong play at both ends of the ice helped host University of Denver to a 4-2 victory and 2-2 overtime tie last weekend in a league series against Wisconsin.

A 6-1, 180-pound junior from Moorhead, Minn., and a draftee of the NHL's Florida Panthers, Lee earned a +2 plus/minus series rating, delivered six hits from his blueline position, had four blocked shots, fired four shots on goal and also had an assist on a game-winning goal. Lee was named the No. 3 star of the game last Friday night (Oct. 22), with his game-winning assist coming on teammate Jason Zucker's goal at 6:43 of the third period.

Goaltender Sam Brittain, who backstopped DU last weekend, has been named WCHA Rookie of the Week.

A 6-3, 210-pound freshman from Calgary, Alberta, Brittain led Denver to a 4-2 win and 2-2 overtime tie against Western Collegiate Hockey Association-rival Wisconsin on Oct. 22-23. He stopped 51 of 55 shots in the two-game series for a .927 saves percentage and allowed only two even-strength goals. He had 26 saves in the Pioneers' 4-2 win and 25 stops in the 2-2 tie. He also Denver to a 9-for-11 effort on the penalty-kill in the two games.

DU Clarion: North Dakota Next Up For Pioneers

(above) Next up; The Fighting Mullets

From: DU Clarion
by Steve Coulter

WCHA play gets tougher for DU as they travel to Grand Forks, North Dakota, to take on No. 8 ranked Fighting Sioux.

The Pioneers practiced yesterday and will hold practice today and tomorrow in Magness Arena.

DU departs Thursday morning and will get one practice in North Dakota before Friday's game, which begins at 6:37 p.m. MST.

"We'll get off the plane and practically step on the ice," said Gwozdecky. "So Thursday's practice won't be as thorough as we would have if we were playing at home."

As the team prepares for its second WCHA series, freshman Sam Brittain will most likely be asked to start both games as sophomore Adam Murray is nursing a groin injury.

Brittain started both contests against Wisconsin, limiting the Badgers to two goals in each match.

"Sam relishes the opportunity to play in both games," said Gwozdecky. "He held us within two (versus Wisconsin), knowing that if he did we could get the momentum on our side."

As for naming a permanent starter in net, Gwozdecky said he is not making up his mind just yet as Murray has to recover from his injury in order for the staff to evaluate each goaltender.

"I would have to say his status is questionable," said Gwozdecky.

Other Notable Injuries

Dusty Jackson has Mono, Nick Shore has wrist issues, Paul Phillips has persistent nosebleeds, and Justin Jones likely won't play until at least Thanksgiving due to what may be eligibility, transcript or academic issues. DU has not issued a statement regarding Jones as of yet. Jarrod Mermis is expected to be back from a groin injury this week.

Mile High Sports Profiles DU's Recruiting

Pat Rooney wrote an article in Mile High Sports about DU's recruiting guru Steve Miller and a pivotal event changed DU hockey recruiting forever [article begins on page 88].

Its one of the best articles written about DU hockey in recent times. Read it to find out some good stories about DU's biggest recruits.

Pat Rooney To Write About DU Hockey Again

(above) Pat Rooney will write articles about DU sports on DenverPioneers.com


Pat Rooney will be a weekly contributor to DenverPioneers.com. On a radio interview last night with Jay Stickney, Rooney announced the new gig.

Rooney was a beat writer for the Rocky Mountain News from the Fall of 2000 until the paper's closure in February 2009, covering the Pioneers during most of his tenure. During that time, Rooney also wrote Crimson & Gold: The Denver Pioneers' Magical Run to the 2004 National Championship, a book that chronicled DU hockey's first of back-to-back NCAA titles.

Photos From DU's Spanky's Pep Rally

(above) DU sophomore Elizabeth Pierce won $100 and two Luxury box tickets to an Avs game


(above) Boone dancing with the stars

(above) Enjoying the event

(above) Boone socializing

(above) Boone pretending to play flute

DU Today Profiles LetsGoDU Blogger

(above) Blogging does have its benefits

Chase Squires wrote an article in DU Today about LetsGoDU and our efforts to raise school spirit at DU.

DU 2 WI 2 Final OT

DU steals a point from Wisconsin tonight by storming back from a 2-0 deficit in the 3rd period. Kyle Ostrow got both DU goals at the 8:18 and 15:16 marks of the 3rd period. Jesse Martin got the assist on the first goal and Anthony Maiani and David Makowski got the assists on the 2nd goal. Neither team could score in the overtime.

Wisconsin freshman Mark Zengerle put the Badgers up 1-0 at 4:17 in the 1st period when DU turned the puck over and he fired it past Sam Brittain. The Badgers built a 2-0 lead at the 8:17 mark of the 2nd period on another DU turnover. Sean Dolan got the goal with assists to Ryan Little and Patrick Johnson.

Scott Gudmanson had an outstanding game in net for the Badgers with 35 saves. DU goalie Sam Brittain also had a solid game in goal as he stopped 21 pucks for DU. Neither team had a power play goal tonight.

Go DU .... Sweep The Badgers .... No TV on Saturday Night .... Spanky's Pre-Game Pep Rally Saturday (4-6:30 PM) ....

Bud & Coors Step Up Pep Rally Sponsorship

(above) The LetsGoDU Pep Rally at Spankys received a last minute sponsorship infusion from Budweiser & Coors

In response to the high volume of people that LetsGoDU is bringing to the Pep Rally at Spanky's on Saturday, Budweiser is donating two tickets to the Colorado Avalanche vs. Los Angeles Kings in their private suite on Saturday night, plus a parking pass.

Coors will be giving tickets away as well for the DU Vs. Minnesota State hockey game November 12. They will also be giving other "swag" away from 4-6 pm on Saturday evening before the Wisconsin game.

The DU Pep Band will perform three 30 minute sets, Boone will be in the House, Dollar Beers, $100 Poster Contest and hundreds of DU hockey fans will be pumping up the volume. Boone Posters will be sold for $10 and Boone necklaces will be for sale. Spanky's will provide a special game day menu.

The event is designed to raise funding and publicity for the DU Pep Band and help DU hockey SWEEP THE BADGERS.

DU 4 Wisconsin 2 - Final

(above) Jason Zucker came up aces on Friday night with two goals against the Badgers

The University of Denver hockey team dug deep tonight in Magness Arena and came away with a dramatic 4-2 victory over Wisconsin.

Jason Zucker scored the first goal of the game at 6:35 of the first period. Drew Shore gave Zucker a beautiful feed that he roofed over Scott Gudmanson.

Wisconsin tied the game during a DU five minute major penalty at 17:46 of the period. Jordy Murray put one past goaltender Sam Brittain.

Luke Salazar put DU ahead with a power play goal at 17:43 of the 2nd period with assists to David Makowski and Kyle Ostrow. The period was filled with penalties and DU finally scored a power play goal, their second of the season.

Wisconsin tied the game in the early in the 3rd period. Craig Smith scored the goal.

Jason Zucker scored the game winner on a fantastic breakaway goal at 6:43 with assists to John Lee and Brittain. Drew Shore redirected a John Ryder shot from the point to get the insurance goal at 9:44 of the final stanza to seal the victory.

Facebook Evite To Spanky's Pep Rally

(click) on image above to RSVP on Facebook

Denver Post: Brittain To Start In Goal This Weekend

(Above) An injury to Adam Murray creates an opportunity for Sam Brittain against Wisconsin

Voice Of The Crimson & Gold Grades Jay Stickney

(above) "The Voice Of The Crimson & Gold" - Jay Stickney

(Above) From Mile High Sports

DU Goaltender Into Electro House Music Scene

(above) DU's third string goaltender is changing the pregame music scene in Magness Arena


From: NCAA.com
by Jen Gunnels

When senior Josh Rosenholtz walked on to the University of Denver men's ice hockey team this season, he brought to the squad depth off the bench and a new playlist of warmup music. The team's No. 3 goaltender is also one of Denver's leading DJs in the progressive/electro house music scene.

Rosenholtz, who began playing hockey at the age of three, thought he had hung up his skates for good after enrolling at the University of Denver in 2007. The Ridgefield, Connecticut native dove into his studies and began pursuing other interests, like music.

"There's a fantastic electronic music scene in Denver," Rosenholtz said. "I have a passion for music and I felt like this genre was something that was cutting edge and new."

About a year ago Rosenholtz began experimenting with software that allowed him to remix and edit music, tinkering with beats and creating his own sound.

"I started sharing the stuff I was working on with my friends and they started passing it along to people they knew. It was nothing really formal at first, but then with Facebook and Twitter and other sites, the internet proved to be a really useful way to get connected. This has just really taken off within the last year," Rosenholtz said.

As word of his talent began to spread, Rosenholtz, who goes by the stage name Jashko (pronounced Yash-ko), began opening for larger acts in Denver, sometimes playing in front of crowds as large as several thousand. One of the highlights was opening for Shiny Toy Guns at the May Days Music Festival in Denver last May.

"I'm not playing anything live, no instruments, in other words. I'm playing my own music and other people's music that I've remixed," Rosenholtz explained. "I've been very fortunate to open for some bigger names that have a really big following, and that's given me some great exposure."

Before being called upon to join the Pioneers hockey team last summer, Rosenholtz was performing nearly every weekend. Now that hockey is in season, he is spending more time on the ice than on stage, but still finding time to enjoy both of the things he loves.

"Hockey is my first priority now, along with my academics, so I'm trying to find that balance. Now I'm playing about once every three weeks, which I like a lot, actually, because I'm able to change things up and play new stuff every time I'm up there," said Rosenholtz, who also hosts a podcast for fans on his Facebook page.

After listening to his music during workouts, Rosenholtz's Pioneer teammates have become faithful Jashko fans.

"My teammates have been so supportive, which was kind of a surprise because it's a pretty unique genre of music that not everyone is into," Rosenholtz said. "But we started listening to my music during workouts and the guys started getting into it, and then when I had one of my bigger shows recently the whole team came out to see it, which was great."

An international business major with a Spanish minor, Rosenholtz hopes to eventually use his degree to pursue a career in business overseas.

"I'm going to follow this [music] thing as far as it will go, but I'm not going to keep living the dream if this career hits a dead end," Rosenholtz said. "I've had a great few years here at Denver and I know my international business degree will serve me really well."

For more on Jashko's music, visit his Facebook fan page.

Tickets Still Available For Wisconsin Series

(above) Click on photo to purchase DU Hockey tickets online

Some very good tickets are still available to see #11 ranked DU take on 2010 NCAA Frozen Four Runner-up Wisconsin on Friday & Saturday at Magness Arena.

Tickets start at $23 and the first 500 fans each night score a free DU Calendar. Get your tickets now by calling 1-800-745-3000, or in person at the Ritchie Center Box Office. For more information or details call 303-871-GOAL.

DU Pep Band To Play At Spanky's Pep Rally

Between 35-40 members of the University of Denver Pep Band will be performing at Spanky's Roadhouse (1800 E. Evans Ave) on Saturday (4-6 PM).

The band will play three 30 minute sets to pump up the crowd before heading over to Magness Arena to perform at the DU vs. Wisconsin hockey game.

This event is "voluntary" for the band members, so having such a large turnout shows how excited the students are to meet the hockey fans and grab some food at Spanky's.

The band will be collecting donations at the event to fund instruments, travel and uniforms. They will accept cash or checks made out "University of Denver Pep Band." Donations are tax deductible.

Mile High Sports Interviews DU Recruit

(above) Mile High Sports Magazine asked DU recruit Josiah Didler five questions about transitioning from Colorado high school hockey to the USHL

Mile High Sports Magazine has a Q & A with 17 year old DU Recruit Josiah Didler (6'2 200 lbs). Didler is one of the top prospects from Colorado and is playing in the USHL with the Cedar Rapids Rough Riders this season.

So far this season Didler has two assists in four games. He also is one of the team leaders in +/- with +3.
2011 Recruiting Class
D Scott Mayfield (Youngstown, USHL)
F Zac Larraza (U.S. Under-18)
F Garrett Allen (Fargo, USHL)
D Matt Van Voorhis (U.S. Under-18)
D Joey LaLeggia (Penticton Vees, BCHL)

2012 Recruiting Class
F Tyler Pham (Colorado Thunderbirds-U18)
D Dakota Mermis (U.S. Under-17)
D Josiah Didier (Cedar Rapids, USHL)
F Daniel Doremus (Sioux Falls, USHL)

New Student Entrance For Hockey & Hoops Video

Boone's D-Rah Video

DU's 1969 National Championship Team

(above) Front row: Ed Hamilton, Randy Ward, Dale Zeman, Tim Gould, and Dan Helm. Middle row: Coach Murray Armstrong, Allan Genovy, Thomas Miller, Keith Magnuson, Craig Patrick, John Saville, Gerry Powers, Rich Blanche, Gerry Jonasson, Bob Trembecky, and trainer Gene Bradshaw. Top row: George Morrison, Don Thiessen, Terry Leifson, Tom Gilmore, Lynn Powis, Bill Pettinger, and Manager Tom Sampson

Last week the 1969 National Championship team was inducted into the DU Athletics Hall of Fame. This photo was probably taken right after DU defeated Cornell in Colorado Springs for the National Championship.

Denver defeated Cornell 4-3 in a goaltending duel between DU's Gerry Powers and Ken Dryden. Dryden would later achieve fame winning multiple Stanley Cups for the Montreal Canadiens. The game would be Coach Murray Armstrong's 5th and final NCAA Championship at DU.

Boone T-Shirts, Jerseys & Polos

(above) New Boone T-shirts available online

EDIT: Looks like site has taken down the Denver section

Some enterprising DU students have teamed with an internet clothing company to offer a wide range of Boone inspired products. They've got some pretty interesting stuff. Check it out.

News & Notes From Around PioNation

DU alum Rhett Rakhshani has scored in two games in a row for the Bridgeport Sound Tigers (AHL). His first professional goal came against the Providence Bruins, Joe Colborne's team.
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Mike Chambers of the Denver Post was not impressed with DU's power play units on Saturday night. DU may have benefited from some "Home Cooking" from the WCHA refs and still couldn't score.
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DU alum Mark Rycroft, who spent three years at DU before beginning a 226-game NHL career as a third-line grinder, debuted as Jay Stickney’s radio sidekick this weekend. Rycroft is scheduled to work most of DU’s home games with Stickney on 87.7 FM The Ticket.
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DU alum Peter Mannino has been backing up Chris Mason for the NHL Atlanta Thrashers since Ondrej Pavelec's collapse. The Thrashers did not have an update on Pavelec last night, other than to say "he's feeling much better." Mason played both games this weekend.

Spanky's Pep Rally Set to Go On Saturday Night

(above) LetsGoDU's 3rd Annual Poster Contest will have a $100 cash first prize

For the past month the management over at Spanky's Roadhouse and LetsGoDU have been working together to host a pregame Pep Rally on Saturday, October 23rd (4-6:30 PM) before the DU vs. Wisconsin hockey game.

The event will be held in Spanky's parking lot and will feature outdoor grilling and fun hockey related activities. Budweiser, Coors, LetsGoDU & Red Bull are the event's corporate sponsors. The event will also help raise money for the DU Pep Band.

The DU Pep Band will play at the event and Boone will be there to sign autographs and meet the kids.

Red Bull will be providing a tent to cover the parking lot and Coors and Budweiser will provide promotional support. Spanky's has obtained a special event permit from the City of Denver.

There will be a poster contest sponsored by LetsGoDU with a $100 cash first prize.

Keep reading LetsGoDU this week we'll keep you updated on the party. We hope to host other events at local restaurants throughout the season.

Boone Pride On Display At Disney World

(above) Recent DU grad Tim Healy working at Disney World

(left) Tim's lucky Boone necklaces

Intro:
DU Alum Tim Healy sent me this great message about his experiences working at Disney World.

by Tim Healy

"As the DU ice hockey season begins, there have been some crazy things that have happened to me at Disney World. Several situations related to my experiences as a student at the University of Denver."
  • I ride the gold monorail everyday that DU plays a hockey game. I just find this to be awesome and have actually become superstitious about it. (Because everyone that knows that I bleed Crimson and Gold)
  • I met one customer that is a season ticket holder for the New York Islanders and a huge fan of Rhett Rakshsani ( I should note that on my nametag for work they have my university instead of my hometown), so we were talking about Rhett and Pioneer hockey for 20 minutes.
  • After the LetsGoDU Blog had a story about a Denver jeweler creating a Boone necklace, I just had to buy one (or 2). I wear my Boone necklaces on every game day for good luck. People will ask me about it and love the whole story behind Boone and how he was created by Walt Disney (people go crazy when ever you say Walt Disney).
  • Finally, tonight there was a family from Denver and the son was wearing a Denver Hockey Jersey. I literally flipped out I was so excited! We talked for a long time about the game last night and the CC game in November (it turns out that we will both be at Magness for the game).
  • I really believe that these events are a sign that Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse (those 2 are like god down here) are true DU Pioneer fans and want Boone to return as our mascot. I can't wait to return to Denver for the CC game in 3 weeks and cheer on my Pioneers in person.

BC 3 DU 0 Final

Boston College completed their sweep of the University of Denver this weekend. Jimmy Hayes scored on a DU turnover at 1:28 of the 1st period. DU had some good chances but couldn't find the back of the net. Jason Zucker absorbed a knee on knee hit near the end of the 1st period but returned later in the game.

Tommy Cross gave BC a 2 goal lead at 8:57 of the 2nd period when his shot deflected off of a DU d-man and went past Sam Brittain.

The 3rd period was scoreless until Cam Atkinson scored an empty net goal for BC to ice the game at 19:43 of the period. DU did not score a power play goal all weekend which played a major part in losing the game. DU had 5 minute power play when Phillip Samuelsson was ejected from the game for a hit to the head and couldn't cash in. Sam Brittain played very well in goal for DU.

Next up will be the Wisconsin Badgers at Magness next weekend.

Go DU .... Beat BC .... Homecoming Weekend .... Pregaming at Crimson & Gold Tavern from 4-6 PM on Saturday .... DU's 2010 Recruiting Class Named #1 by INCH

USHL.com: DU Recruit Making Waves In USHL

(above) NHL scouts are drooling over DU recruit Scott Mayfield who plays in the USHL this season

From: USHL.com
by James D'Amanda


For DU recruit, Scott Mayfield (6'4 200 lbs) sure has trouble keeping himself a secret. Even with Halloween approaching, you won't catch this Phantom disappearing through a wall – or a ceiling. Because these days, the walls are lined with professional scouting reports, and in Mayfield's world, ceilings are hard to find.

After an eye-catching performance at the 2010 USHL Fall Classic in Sioux City, Iowa, Mayfield has carried plenty of that momentum into the 2010-11 season. His game-winning goal against the Chicago Steel in the first week of the season secured a victory for Youngstown and CCM Defenseman of the Week honors for Mayfield.

But it gets better. According to NHL scouts, Mayfield has become a top prospect in the upcoming 2011 NHL entry draft.

"Everything that's happened to me has happened in the past 18 months," Mayfield told USHL.com last week. "I feel the attention, and it builds confidence, but you also can't read into it too much. On a piece of paper it doesn't matter – it's all about how you perform, and I know that. So I'm just taking it day-by-day and trying to get better."

When the heat is on, Mayfield plays it cool. But when a 17-year old hockey player's "day-by-day" features hundred of scouts and thousands of spectators, how does he keep from getting caught up in the moment?

Back at the Fall Classic, only moments after Youngstown defeated the Sioux Falls Stampede, 4-2, Mayfield offered a straight-up, honest answer to this question.

"You know," he said with a smile, "every player will tell you 'no, it doesn't affect me,' but all of us are just thinking to ourselves, 'man, look at all those guys up there!' It's always in the back of your mind, but you try to zone them out as much as you can."

As the year progresses, Mayfield's ability to "zone out" any outside influences will become increasingly relevant. Committed to the University of Denver for the 2011-12 academic year, Mayfield says he looks forward to the next step in his career.

"I can't wait to play for Denver. They have a great program – they're a winning program. I have always loved the University of Denver, and I've wanted to go there since I was eight or nine."

"I also grew up playing with some of the kids who are now at some of these big WCHA schools, and a couple kids on Youngstown who are going WCHA. My roommate last year plays at UNO (University of Nebraska at Omaha) this year, so I'm really looking forward to playing against those guys."

For the 2009-10 USHL season, Mayfield moved from St. Louis, Missouri to Youngstown, Ohio. And he says the transition was, at times, a real struggle.

"On the ice, the transition is about adapting to the speed and the size. I thought it took me about 10-15 games, maybe, to get on my feet, start making plays and really getting noticed out there. But there's also a huge change in your life off the ice. Being in a new place, new town at age 16, new family – so that's the biggest transition, learning to adjust off the ice and still perform."

Mayfield believes his experiences off the ice – where he discovered a new kind of personal autonomy – help explain his rapid development over the past 18 months.

"Moving away from home last year definitely made me mature at a quicker rate than I expected. Being 16 when I moved away really helped me grow up."

With a strong opening to the 2010-11 season, Mayfield believes he has put himself in the best position to succeed. He also recognizes that there is still plenty of room for growth.

"Honestly, I feel like I was young last year. Over the summer I learned better ways to train, better ways of conducting myself. And I feel like leadership-wise, being in my second year, I've really stepped into that leadership role."

When it comes to being at the right place at the right time, Mayfield – now standing 6-feet, 3 ½ inches tall, with his own band of confidence – may find that a Phantom truly can be everywhere at once.

"When you have an opportunity to play in front of someone, you take advantage of it," Mayfield says. "That's one of the most important things that I've learned."

Boston College 6 - DU 2 Final

Boston College jumped out to a 5-0 lead and cruised the rest of the way to a convincing 6-2 victory in Magness Arena in front of a stunned sold out crowd.

BC scored the lone goal in a highly contested 1st period. Joe Whitney scored BC's goal at 16:33 of the period with assists to Cam Atkinson and Philip Samuelsson. DU had some good chances that BC goaltender John Muse made some nice saves on.

The Eagles exploded with four goals in the 2nd period to make it 5-0 before DU could get on the board late in the period. Turnovers cost DU many of the Boston College goals. Luke Salazar scored DU's lone goal of the period at 15:35 with assists from Jesse Martin and Kyle Ostrow.

The third period saw DU close within three goals when Luke Salazar scored his second of the night at the 4:50 mark. The assists went to David Makowski and Paul Phillips. BC iced the game with a shorthanded goal at the 7:48 mark when Brian Gibbons skated the puck around a falling down DU d-man and raced in unscathed on Adam Murray. The final shots were DU 29 BC 34.

DU and BC face each other again on Saturday night to close out this two game series.

Box Score

Denver Post game recap

DenverPioneers.com video highlights


DU Friday Night Line-Up Against BC

Forwards
Zucker - D. Shore - Knowlton
Bennett - Maiani - S. Ostrow
K. Ostrow - Martin - Salazar
Mermis - Olszewski - Dewhurst

Defense
Donovan - Nutini
Ryder - Makowski
Phillips - Lee

Goal
Murray (starter)
Brittain
Rosenholtz

Not Dressed
N. Shore (wrist)
Jackson (mono)
Wrenn (hamstring)
Brehm (healthy)
Cook (healthy)
Jones (healthy)

Nick Shore May Miss BC Series With Wrist Injury

Mike Chambers of the Denver Post is reporting that Nick Shore has been fitted with a special cast and may miss the games this weekend against the #1 ranked Boston College Eagles.

Coach Gwozdecky Answered Fans' Questions

In today's Denver Post, longtime University of Denver hockey coach George Gwozdecky answered questions about Pioneers players leaving for the NHL, the Colorado pipeline to DU's program, and the future of the WCHA.

Thanks to those LetsGoDU readers who contributed questions and to the Denver Post for setting up the interview. Check it out.

UND Team Bus Rear Ended Last Night

From: Star Tribune
by Roman Augustoviz

At 5 p.m. Thursday evening the bus transporting the North Dakota hockey team, including the coaches, was hit from behind.

The driver of the car apparently dozed off. And awoke too late to stop as the bus slowed down near a railroad crossing near Erskine, Minn. Nobody was hurt in the accident but the car was totaled and the Sioux had to wait for another bus, a short yellow school bus, to take them the rest of the way.

Their bus was leaking coolant. Not a good thing.

North Dakota hockey sport info. guy Jayson Hajdu tweated and blogged about the incident. Once he knew everyone was OK, Haydu wrote, Sioux associate head coach Cary Eades joked, "They've gotta crack down on all this hitting from behind."

Denver Post: #1 Boston College Ready To Face DU

(left) BC Coach Jerry York has won the last two National Championships

From: Denver Post
by Mike Chambers

During the celebration, championship teams usually realize a defining moment of the season, a key event that created significant positive change. For defending NCAA champion Boston College, it occurred Jan. 2 in Denver, and it was unpleasant.

"Turning point of the season," Eagles coach Jerry York said of BC's 4-3 loss to DU in the final game of the Denver Cup" [Read rest of article].

DU's Recruiting Class Named #1 By INCH

(above) For the first time, Inside College Hockey has named DU's 2010 recruiting class #1

When your recruiting class features two of the top four forwards, the #4 defenseman and #3 goaltender, you're destined to have the #1 recruiting class in college hockey. It takes years to build a single recruiting class and there are so many potential pitfalls along the way. No doubt this is a proud day for everyone associated with DU recruiting.
INCH Ranks DU's Past Recruiting Classes & Key Recruits

2010 - #1 - N. Shore, Bennett, Zucker, Brittain, Makowski

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
2010 Recruiting Class
F Jason Zucker (U.S. Under-18) - #4 forward
D David Makowski (Green Bay, USHL) - #4 defenseman
F Nick Shore (U.S. Under-18) - #14 forward
F Beau Bennett (Penticton, BCHL) - #2 forward
F Dan Olszewski (St. Louis, NAHL)
F Jarrod Mermis (Lincoln, USHL)
G Sam Brittain (Canmore, AJHL) - #3 goaltender
F Justin Jones (Texas, NAHL)

DU Today Blog Profiles Beau Bennett

(above) Beau Bennett

Before he even set foot on the University of Denver campus this fall, freshman Pioneer Beau Bennett became a National Hockey League first-round draft pick and then met the Pittsburgh Penguins’ Sidney Crosby, arguably hockey’s biggest superstar [read rest of article]

Denver Post Profiles Beau Bennett

The Denver Post Sports section has a splashy front page article on DU hockey player Beau Bennett. Its a really good article. Check it out.

DU's 2011 Recruiting Update

DU's newest recruit Joey Laleggia had a huge weekend in the BCHL. He had 3 assists on Friday and 2 goals on Saturday for the Penticton Vees and now leads the team in scoring as a defenseman. He has scored 12 points in his last 4 games, has scored four of the team's last 5 goals, and leads all D-men in points in the BCHL.

Daniel Doremus has gotten off to a slow start with the Sioux Falls Stampede in the USHL. Playing in just two of the teams first three games he is -3 with 0g, 0a and just one shot on goal. A couple of years ago Chris Knowlton played for a terrible team in the USHL. His stats weren't that great but was a solid contributor in college from Day 1.

The season is also just starting for the USNDT Under 18 team in the USHL. Zac Larraza has one goal and Matt Van Voorhis has an assist in the team's first two games.

Garrett Allen has an assist for the Fargo Force in the USHL. The team is just four games into their season.

Scott Mayfield, whom many are projecting to be an NHL first round draft choice next summer, has one goal after four games with the Youngstown Phantoms in the USHL. He leads the team by a wide margin in penalty minutes (14) and shots (12).
2011 Recruiting Class
D Scott Mayfield (Youngstown, USHL)
F Zac Larraza (U.S. Under-17)
F Garrett Allen (Fargo, USHL)
D Matt Van Voorhis (U.S. Under-17)
D Joey LaLeggia (Penticton Vees, BCHL)

2012 Recruiting Class
F Tyler Pham (Team Illinios)
D Dakota Mermis (St. Louis Jr. Blues, AAA)
D Josiah Didier (Cedar Rapids, USHL)
F Daniel Doremus (Sioux Falls, USHL)

Carle Previews 2014 Philadelphia Frozen Four

(above) Matt Carle won two National Championships at DU

DU hockey legend Matt Carle was interviewed by NCAA.org about the 2014 Frozen Four that will be played in the Philadelphia Flyers home rink.

From: NHL.com

Q: What are your thoughts of the Frozen Four coming to Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has a very long history of supporting hockey with the Flyers. It is a very sports-oriented town and they are very passionate about their hometown teams and sports in general. I think the fans in Philadelphia will really come out and support the Frozen Four.

Q: What are your thoughts of the Wells Fargo Center where the games will be played?
It is a great building typical of a new stadium. It is definitely right up there with the best in the league. When the fans get going there is nothing like it. It is a first class venue and will be a great host for the Frozen Four. The building also has one of the better ice surfaces in the league. The crew does a very good job with it and at that time of the year it will be great.

Q: Tell us about your experience of playing in the Frozen Four.
It was such a great experience playing in the Frozen Four. There is so much on the line knowing you are one of only four teams in all of college hockey that is still playing. There were obviously sellout crowds so playing in front of that type of atmosphere and winning two national titles was great and something I will remember the rest of my life.

Q: Where should fans visit when they come to town?
The people of Philadelphia take a lot of pride in living there. It’s the birthplace of America so you have to go to the historical places such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Another place people should try and go to is the Walnut Street where they have some nice shops and restaurants.

Q: Obviously you can’t go to Philadelphia and not get a cheesesteak, so let’s get right down to it – Pat’s or Geno’s?
Whichever one has the shortest line. You can’t go wrong with either.

Q: What about your favorite restaurant?
Del Frisco’s Steakhouse. It is in an old bank. It has great food with a great atmosphere that still has the vault in it and a cool wine cellar.

Q: Give us a place for fans to watch the games who are not be able to get tickets.
Chickie’s and Pete’s. It is not far from the arena and has a lot of televisions.

DU Coach Gwozdecky To Answer Fan's Questions

(above) Ask the coach a question

Final Day To Email Questions

Coach Gwozdecky is taking time off the ice to answers fans’ questions in the next installment of The Denver Post’s.”

If you have a question for Coach Gwozdecky please email it to fanmail@denverpost.com.

Questions will be accepted through Wednesday.

Denver Post Profiles Drew Shore's Fast Start

(above) Drew Shore had a big weekend against Vermont


With the big series against Boston College looming this weekend, Drew Shore will be anchoring the Pioneer offense. The Denver Post has three items pertaining to the Pioneers in today's paper.

Don't forget to email the Denver Post a question for Coach Gwozdecky by Wednesday for their "Fan Mail Segment."