NCHC Signs TV Contract With CBS Sports Network

CBS Sports Network has agreed to a multi-year agreement with the new National Collegiate Hockey Conference, beginning in the 2013-2014 season. CBS Sports Network will be the exclusive national television partner for the conference, which will feature eight of the nation’s top college hockey programs. 

The new conference features UMD, North Dakota, Denver, Colorado College, Nebraska-Omaha, Miami (OH) University, Western Michigan, and St. Cloud State.  The new league will see its first season in the 2013-14 college hockey calendar.

The agreement calls for a minimum of 18 conference games, including the National’s semifinal and championship contests. Currently six teams that will be in the new conference are currently ranked in the Top 20 poll.

Denver Post Profiles Ty Loney

(above) Freshman Ty Loney is on a seven game scoring streak
Freshman Ty Loney's hockey career at the University of Denver started slowly. Really slowly. So slowly, he did more watching than playing.

The son of Troy Loney, who had a distinguished NHL career, was a healthy scratch in six of the Pioneers' first 11 games. Scholarship freshmen typically play immediately, but young Ty was watching from the stands or playing sparingly on the fourth line.

"It was pretty tough," Loney said Monday. "No fun."

Now, he's a red-hot, first-line winger who is having a blast playing with star junior center Drew Shore and senior Luke Salazar [read entire article].

DU Alum Rhett Rakhshani Called Up To NHL

(above) DU Alum Rhett Rakhshani may see some action in the NHL this week
The New York Islanders announced today that Rhett Rakhshani has been recalled from loan from the Bridgeport Sound Tigers of the American Hockey League (AHL). The club placed Marty Reasoner on injured reserve with a broken hand, retroactive to Jan. 6.

Rakhshani, 23, has nine goals and 16 assists in 27 games this season with the Sound Tigers. The Orange, CA, native ranks second on the team in scoring with 25 points, despite missing the first 17 games of the season due to a concussion. Last season, Rakhshani led the Sound Tigers in goals (24), assists (38), points (62) and power-play goals in 66 games as a rookie. He represented the Sound Tigers at the 2011 AHL All-Star Classic and was named to the AHL All-Rookie First Team. The Islanders selected Rakhshani in the fourth round, 100th overall, of the 2006 National Hockey League Entry Draft.

DU vs. CC Student Tickets Sell Out In An Hour

(above) The DU student section will be rocking this weekend
The entire allotment of student tickets for the Colorado College hockey game this Friday night sold out in less than an hour on Monday morning.

It's going to be a huge spirit weekend at the University of Denver. On Friday the "Pioneer Pregame" will have multiple student organizations setting up booths and food served by the DU Grilling Society. Friday night the students will be all dressed in white with neon accessories to confuse CC.

On Saturday the festivities start on Driscoll Green at Noon. There will be free food by DUGS, happy hour beers at the Sidelines Pub on campus and two fraternities will host lawn games. There will be stations by different student organizations and students will receive a game day shirt. At 1:30 the pep band, cheer and dance teams will help parade people over to Magness Arena for the Middle Tennessee basketball game. After the game, some students will bus to the Springs for the CC game.

Odds Of DU Winning The MacNaughton Cup

(above) According to statistical probability DU has a 4% chance to win the MacNaughton Trophy
Good news.  

With DU's sweep over UAA this past weekend, the Pioneers have clinched at least 11th place in the WCHA this season.  Thanks to PlayoffStatus.com you can see the odds of where DU will finish in the WCHA Standings this season.  DU would need some help and win almost all its remaining games to capture the MacNaughton Cup this season (4% probability).

On another note, UAA last swept DU on Dec. 11-12, 1998 in Anchorage.  Since that time DU has swept the Seawolves 12 times.  Ask the UAA Blogger, DU is one tough cookie to sweep.

Exhibition: US National Team 16 - DU Lax 15 OT

(above) Jamie Faus made 14 saves on Sunday
From: In Lax We Trust
by D. Shirley

The #5 ranked University of Denver traveled to Orlando, FL. to take on Team USA as part of the US Lacrosse Champion Challenge.  Team USA, the reigning world champions, prevailed in overtime 16-15, but the Pioneers put up one heck of a battle against some of the best professional players in the world.

Mark Mathews was in mid-season form scoring four goals and four assists to lead all players.  The DU Senior is expected to contend for the Tewaaraton Award given to the best NCAA player this season.

The US came out and quickly scored but Denver went on a three goal run behind Eric Law and Mark Matthews. Matthews assisted both of Law's goals and added one of his own. Denver was moving the ball well on offense. Advancement from the back line and movement of players up front is what allowed Denver score.

Team USA then put on an exhibition of their speed and size and quickly took the lead back. Chazz Woodson scored a couple of goals right before half to give the Americans a 9-7 lead going into the break.

Denver slightly outplaying the US in the second half & tied the game at 15 with 2:22 left in regulation. In overtime, both teams found the pipes once but the game winner came off of a rebounded shot that Jamie Faus couldn't contain and Kevin Leveille sent it to the back of the net for a Team USA victory, 16-15.

Saturday: DU 6 - UAA 3 FINAL

(above) The Goal Czar scored one goal, had five assists and was +6 this weekend
Saturday night marked the long awaited return of injured goaltender Sam Brittain. DU assured that his return would be triumphant with a 6-3 victory over Alaska-Anchorage.

A four goal explosion in the first period paced the Pioneers to another series sweep over the Seawolves. The win moved DU into third place in the WCHA.

DU now begins a grueling ten-game stretch run that includes series against Colorado College, Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and Nebraska-Omaha.

DU Lines
Loney - Drew Shore - Salazar
Zucker - Nick Shore - Knowlton
Mermis - Ostrow - Jackson
Jacobson - Tabrum - Dewhurst

Phillips - Mayfield
LaLeggia - Lee
Ryder - Didier

Brittain - Murrray

.
WCHA Standings
.
Pairwise Rankings

DU 4 - Alaska Anchorage 2 FINAL

(above) Scott Mayfield nudges UAA's Brett Cameron onto the goalpost

Adam Murray made 30 saves to lead DU to a 4-2 victory over Alaska Anchorage on Friday night.

Ty Loney, Nick Shore, Drew Shore & Luke Salazar scored for DU.

.
.
.
.
DU's Lines
Forwards

Loney - Drew Shore - Salazar
Zucker - Nick Shore - Knowlton
Dewhurst - Ostrow - Jackson
Jacobson - Tabrum - Olszewski

Defense
Phillips - Mayfield
LaLeggia - Lee
Ryder - Didier

Goal
Murray - Olkinuora

Hockey's Future: Q & A With Sam Brittain

(above) Sam Brittain is expected to return to the crease this weekend against UAA
Sam Brittain Q & A

Sam Brittain, the sophomore goaltender for the University of Denver, is gearing up for a return to the ice this weekend after spending the first half of the season rehabilitating from surgery to repair his knee. Brittain suffered the injury in the WCHA Final Five game against the University of North Dakota on what seemed like an innocuous play, but eventually cost him not only 20-plus games for the Pioneers, but also a unique chance to play for Team Canada in the World Junior Championships.

Hockey's Future asked Brittain 15 questions about his injury, his future and goaltending.

DU Hoops Thumps Arkansas State 66-52

Travis Hallam
University of Denver sophomore forward Chris Udofia tied a career-high with 21 points and senior guard Brian Stafford added 15 points, as the Pioneers defeated the Arkansas State Red Wolves 66-52 at Magness Arena on Thursday.

Udofia went 8-of-13 from the field, including three baskets from beyond the arc. Denver recorded its 11th double-digit victory of the season in front of 7,075 fans, the third largest men's basketball crowd in Magness Arena history.

"I thought we played extremely well tonight," head coach Joe Scott said. "It's great to see that kind of crowd. It's good for our players. They've worked hard and earned it."

NY Times: UND Fans Throw Dead Gophers On Ice

(above) Duck and cover
From: NY Times
by Drew Claussen

The final WCHA series held in Grand Forks, between Minnesota and North Dakota had it all: 11 goals, 16 penalties, one victory by each team and dead animals thrown on the ice.

After a North Dakota goal on two weeks ago fans littered the ice with dead gophers, the game was actually delayed as blood was scraped from the ice.

The dead gophers were supplied by a local farmer who threw them in the freezer until game day.

The games featured all the scraps and fights that series between the two rivals usually do, capped off by Ben Blood of UND and Seth Ambroz getting into a minor scuffle after Blood shoved Rau while the teams were shaking hands following Saturday’s game.

A day later North Dakota head coach Dave Hakstol revoked Blood’s assistant captaincy.

Denver Post: Put In Pickert

[above] DU Senior guard Alex Pickett is very familiar with DU's bench
by Irv Moss

Alex Pickert's story throughout his career at DU probably is similar to many other in college basketball. He walked on as a freshman in 2008-09 and was part manager and part practice player. He came out of high school as an MVP in his league on the California coast. He could have gone to a smaller program and probably been a star.

He has played in 15 games in four years, chalked up 31 minutes of playing time, has 10 total points and picked up his first career assist 11 days ago.

Even with his sparse play, Pickert has become a symbol for the DU fans. Head coach Joe Scott says he can count on hearing "Put Pickert in" as games move along. One fan has put together a big placard showing a photograph of Pickert's face. Scott can't miss it when he looks at the student section [read entire article].

News & Notes From Around PioNation

DU students will be taking a bus to the Colorado College hockey game on Feb. 4th ($24). Students should email joey.leon2@gmail.com. The bus will depart after the men's basketball game against Middle Tennessee.
----------
Pioneer freshmen Joey LaLeggia and Ty Loney were named Red Baron WCHA Defensive Player and co-Rookie of the Week, respectively, for the week of Jan. 17.
----------
ESPN will broadcast DU men's basketball game against Middle Tennessee from Magness Arena on Saturday, February 4. Tip-off is set for 2:00 PM MST. For tickets, visit denverpioneers.com or call 303-871-2336.
----------
Watch parties for the DU vs. Middle Tennessee basketball game are scheduled in Atlanta, Chicago, Northern California and Twin Cities. Click here for details.
----------
DU Alum Rhett Rakhshani is having another strong season in the AHL after missing 18 games with a knee injury.  The NY Islanders Website has a good article about his injury and comeback.

Denver Post: Ryder & Brittain Return To Practice

From: Denver Post
by Mike Chambers

"University of Denver coach George Gwozdecky said sophomore goalie Sam Brittain and senior defenseman John Ryder were cleared to practice Monday and are probable for this weekend's two-game series at Alaska-Anchorage" [read entire article].

DU Plays Pond Hockey With Kids

(above) Several DU players joined the Jr. Pioneers (8 y.o.'s) on Evergreen Lake

DU Recruit Riding 25 Game Winning Streak

Cody Depourcq
The BCHL Penticton Vees are riding a 25 game winning streak. Their historic start has made a shambles of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) standings with a 37-3-0 (2 OTL) record.

The youngest player on the team, by over a year, is 16 year-old Cody Depourcq (5'6 150 lbs), who will play for the University of Denver in 2013.

Despite playing against players that are mostly three or four years older, Cody has appeared in all 42 Vees games.  He has tallied 3 goals and 11 assists.

Penticton is ranked the #1 Junior A team in all of Canada.  Current Pentiction players who suited up for DU include Beau Bennett and Joey LaLeggia.
2012 Recruiting Class
F Tyler Pham (Indiana Ice, USHL)
D Dakota Mermis (Green Bay, USHL)
D Matt Van Voorhis (Sioux Falls, USHL)
F Garrett Allen (Des Moines, USHL)
D Nolan Zajac (Omaha, USHL)
F Quentin Shore (U.S. Under-18)
F Grant Arnold (Green Bay, USHL)

2013 Recruiting Class

F Brad Hawkinson (Lincoln Stars, USHL)
F Landon Smith (Cedar Rapids, USHL)
F Connor Chatham (U.S. Under-17)
F Ray Pigozzi (Chicago, USHL)
D Will Butcher (U.S. Under-17)
F Cody DePourcq (Penticton, BCHL)

2014 Recruiting Class

F Jared Fiegl (Colorado Rampage, U-16)
D Gage Ausmus (U.S. Under-17)
F Trevor Moore (Tri-Cities, USHL)

DU Alum Kevin Dineen Discusses Jr. Hockey

(above) DU Alum Kevin Dineen has led the Florida Panthers to first place in the Southeast division this season

Kevin Dineen enters his first year as the head coach of the NHL Florida Panthers after being named to the position on June 1, 2011.

Dineen began played his collegiate hockey at the University of Denver in the WCHA. In his first season with the Pioneers, Dineen had 10 goals and 20 points in 27 games. Dineen returned to the Pioneers for the 1982-83 season, where he was named captain as a sophomore and saw his numbers increase to 16 goals and 29 points in 36 game.

Bye Weekend Helps DU In Pairwise Rankings

The University of Denver hockey team used the bye week to help several key players recover from injuries.  An unexpected benefit was DU rising to #12 in the Pairwise Rankings.

The Pioneers precaroius current position in the Pairwise Ranking is dependant on Bemidji State remaining as a "Team Under Consideration." 

Important upcoming series' against Colorado College, Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota & UNO will probably determine if DU will make the NCAA Tournament in March.

But first up is a trip to Anchorage to play the Seawolves this weekend.

DU Hoops Falls In OT To North Texas

The University of Denver basketball team was edged 75-74 by a buzzer-beater in overtime at The Super Pit on Saturday night.

The Pioneers (15-5, 5-2 Sun Belt Conference) took a one-point lead on a backdoor layup by senior forward Justin Coughlin with 13 seconds left in overtime.  A North Texas players tapped in an offensive rebound just before the buzzer, giving the victory to North Texas.

Fill Magness To The Rafters Against Middle Tenn.

(above) Colorado College Weekend will feature the added bonus of a huge basketball game against Middle Tennessee
DU "White-Out" Tripleheader
Fri. Feb 3rd CC@ DU
Sat. Feb 4th Middle Tenn @ DU Hoops - DU @ CC

The Denver Pioneer Men & Women's basketball teams continue to set new marks for the best NCAA Division I starts in school history. Circle February 4th on your calendar, when Sun Belt Conference leading Middle Tennessee comes to Magness Arena for a double header showdown. You can be the Magness Arena Home Court advantage when the men tip-off at 2:00pm, followed by the women's game at 4:30pm.

The men's game will be televised on ESPN.

Get tickets to the game for $4. Go to DenverPioneers.com and click on the "Promotions" tab on the left side. Enter the promo code BASKETBALL and save.

Video: DU Recruit Nolan Zajac's Goal


(above) DU recruit Nolan Zajac scores for the USHL Omaha Lancers

2012 Recruiting Class
F Tyler Pham (Indiana Ice, USHL)
D Dakota Mermis (Green Bay, USHL)
D Matt Van Voorhis (Sioux Falls, USHL)
F Garrett Allen (Des Moines, USHL)
D Nolan Zajac (Omaha, USHL)
F Quentin Shore (U.S. Under-18)
F Grant Arnold (Green Bay, USHL)

2013 Recruiting Class

F Brad Hawkinson (Lincoln Stars, USHL)
F Landon Smith (Cedar Rapids, USHL)
F Connor Chatham (U.S. Under-17)
F Ray Pigozzi (Chicago, USHL)
D Will Butcher (U.S. Under-17)
F Cody DePourcq (Penticton, BCHL)

2014 Recruiting Class

F Jared Fiegl (Colorado Rampage, U-16)
D Gage Ausmus (U.S. Under-17)
F Trevor Moore (Tri-Cities, USHL)

Possibility That Drew Shore Will Return Next Season

(above) The report is that Florida has eight centers in their system and Drew might weigh his options is free agency in 2013
"Big news on the Shore front and not just because the big, two-way pivot dropped five points on Bemidji State the other night. There’s a strong possibility Shore will return to Denver for his senior year, then head for unrestricted free agency. Florida wanted him to come out after this season, but with brother Quentin joining Drew and Nick Shore in Denver next year, there’s new motivation to stick around college. Drafted 44th overall by Florida in 2009." Source: The Hockey News Hotlist

DU's Ski Coach Has Winning Pedigree

(above) Head coach Andy Leroy will attempt to win DU's 22nd NCAA Skiing Championship in March
From: NCAA.com
by Jen Gunnels

Skiing is one of the NCAA’s oldest championships, but only four individuals in the long history of the sport have captured an individual national title as a student-athlete and then gone on to coach a team to a national title. University of Denver head coach Andy LeRoy completed the feat most recently when his Pioneers captured the first of three consecutive national championship titles in 2008.

It was an accomplishment that had not been reached in more than 30 years of NCAA skiing.

Denver’s John Cress captured an individual national title in 1956 before going on to coach Wyoming to a team title in 1968; Colorado’s Bill Marolt captured individual titles in 1963, ‘65 and ’66, then led his alma mater to seven consecutive team titles from 1972-78. James Page skied to a national title for Dartmouth in 1962 and 1963 before leading the Big Green to a tie for the title with Marolt’s Buffaloes in 1976.

LeRoy first took his place in the NCAA skiing record book in 2000 when he captured the men’s slalom national title as a student-athlete for Colorado. Eight years later he stood atop the podium again as Denver’s head coach and enjoyed the thrill of victory from a new perspective.

“It was more fun as a coach, absolutely,” LeRoy said. “As a coach, there are so many more people that are excited about it. I got to step back and watch their joy and their excitement and see the way it came together over the course of the year.”

LeRoy joined the U.S. Ski Team out of high school in 1993 and spent the next six years skiing internationally on the World Cup circuit, including an appearance in the 1998 Nagano Olympics. With one year of collegiate eligibility remaining, LeRoy joined the University of Colorado ski team under head coach Richard Rokos for the 1999-2000 season. Along with winning the individual national title that year, LeRoy was named Colorado’s Athlete of the Year.

“I’d been skiing with the national team for six years and trying to be the best in the world, and anything less wasn’t satisfying,” LeRoy said. “But at CU, I was being recognized for the work I put in all year long and I was able to reach all of the goals I set in that environment. I was able to recapture some of what I loved about skiing by being on a college campus.”

That experience as a student-athlete also equipped LeRoy for the unique challenge of coaching skiing at the collegiate level where competing with a team perspective is often new to student-athletes in a traditionally individual sport.

“We’re challenged in the sport of skiing in that you’re always competing as an individual,” LeRoy said. “So to try to meld individual skiers into thinking with a team mentality is a real challenge. Trying to get that kind of culture going in a team -- it was helpful for me to have been part of a team myself.”

Senior A.J. Avrin has been skiing under LeRoy’s direction for four years as a member of the men’s Alpine team and was an All-American in giant slalom at the 2010 championships where Denver won its third consecutive team title.

“Seeing the ecstasy on his face when we won the title and sharing in our success, I just thought that was such a selfless reaction,” Avrin remembered. “It was almost like he was skiing vicariously through us and just sharing in our joy.”

LeRoy and the rest of the Pioneer squad will look to recapture that championship magic when they return to Bozeman, Mont., in March for the 2012 NCAA skiing championships at the same site where Denver won its 2008 title. LeRoy is familiar not only with the venue, but what it will take to capture another championship there.

“You don’t come across coaches very often who have had the kind of success that he’s had, as a student-athlete himself and an Olympian,” Avrin said. “It’s been a real blessing to be able to work with someone who understands the preparation that it takes to be successful, both mentally and physically, and has the experience to guide you through that.”

60-Yard Mural Celebrates DU's Athletes & History

(above) The "Home Of Champions" mural celebrates DU's Athletics' history and prominently features you know who
photo credit: Adam Hammerman

From: DU Clarion
by Caitlin Hendee

A 60-yard mural depicting prior student-athletes while they play in one of DU's 17 varsity sports was painted on the wall outside of the entrance of the Coors Fitness Center last week as part of an athletic branding project that began late last summer.

"What we wanted to do is get the varsity sports up there so people know," said Paul Pogge, assistant athletic director. "We want to emphasize the fact that we play successful Division I athletics here at DU."

The mural is the first component of the Ritchie Center branding project, which may take "a couple of years depending on the budget and as teams are successful and achieve new things," according to Pogge.

"It is a foremost priority to use athletics as a means of developing the institution's brand so that we bring well-deserved additional exposure to the many outstanding units," said Pogge.

The mural reads, "Home of Champions" on it. Pogge said the university wants to build its branding project around the "Home of Champions" theme.

"We think it goes way beyond athletics," said Pogge. "We think we have champion-caliber academic programs, champion-caliber leadership and champion-caliber professors. Lastly, in athletics we aspire to win championships."

DU has 28 NCAA championships, seven in hockey and 21 in skiing [read entire article].

Men's Hoops Promo Video: This Sunday vs. WKU


On Sunday at 1 PM the DU Men's Basketball team will face Western Kentucky in a huge Sunbelt Clash that may have NCAA Tournament ramifications.

Afterwards at 3:30 PM DU Women's hoops team will face Western Kentucky as well.
 .
Go DU.

Sunday Brunch @ Crimson & Gold

(above) Laren's Facebook Event Page has details of the Brunch at the Crimson & Gold Tavern on January 15th

Sunday, Jan. 15th
10:30 Am - 1 PM
Crimson & Gold Tavern
Only $20 - Brunch & Mimosas

Former DU Gymnast Lauren Garan will be hosting a brunch at Crimson and Gold Tavern today from 10:30-1:00 PM. It is in the morning, so DU athletes and fans who show up, can head over and support the men's basketball team against Sun Belt conference rival Western Kentucky.

Tickets are just $20 and include breakfast and bottomless mimosas, along with other drink specials. There will be raffles and she will give a speech in honor of the cause/event.

Bring the family, have a great meal, support this great cause & Go DU.

Denver 3 - Bemidji State 2 FINAL

“Tonight’s game was as great a team win as we’ve had in quite a while, for sure all year long."
-George Gwozdecky
Drew Shore didn't dress on Saturday night due to a "lower body injury," but somehow the University of Denver pulled out another improbable victory. The Pioneers came from behind to defeat Bemidji State 3-2 thanks in part to Jason Zucker.

Zucker  had a goal and two assists, Joey Laleggia had three assists and Juho Olkinoura played another great game in goal.





DU's Lineup
Zucker - N. Shore - Knowlton
Loney - Tabrum - Salazar
Larazza - Ostrow - Jackson
Jacobson - Dewhurst - Doremus
Mermis

Phillips - Mayfield
Laleggia - Lee
Didier

Olkinoura
Murray
Hope

Two DU Lax Players Selected In MLL Draft

University of Denver senior lacrosse players Mark Matthews and Alex Demopoulos were selected Friday night in the Major League Lacrosse draft.

Matthews was selected fourth overall by the Denver Outlaws​. Demopoulos was picked 24th overall by the expansion Ohio Machine.

DU 6 - Bemidji State 3 FINAL

The "Drew Shore For Hobey Campaign" kicked into high gear on Friday night at Magness Arena. Shore had two goals and three assists to lead the Pioneers to a 6-3 victory over Bemidji State.

Bemidji State led 1-0 after the first period, but DU scored five times in the second period to put the game out of reach.  Ty Loney continued his recent scoring splurge with two goals.

The win was DU's fourth victory in five games and moved DU up six spots in the Pairwise Rankings to #16.



Its Gameday

DU (11-8-2) vs. Bemidji State(11-9-2)
Friday, January 13
7:30 p.m. MT
Magness Arena (6,200)
TV: ROOT SPORTS-Rocky Mountain
& FCS-Pacific
Radio: FM 102.3 ESPN
Web: www.DenverPioneers.com

Ty Loney Will Remain On First Line

(above) Reed and Ty [right] spend a little time with the Stanley Cup in the backyard
From: Denver Post
by Adrian Dater

One of Ty Loney's first memories is of his father's last acts as a professional hockey player.

"His last practice as a player, I think I was about 3 years old, I got to skate with him. That's my only memory of him and the NHL," said Loney, a University of Denver freshman forward whose team hosts Bemidji State this weekend at Magness Arena.

Loney's father, Troy, played 12 seasons in the NHL, the final one with the New York Islanders in 1994-95. He was part of a Pittsburgh Penguins​ team that won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1991 and 1992 [read entire article].

DU Hires New Women's Volleyball Coach

Jesse Mahoney

Jesse Mahoney, an assistant volleyball coach at Colorado State University for the past seven seasons, has been hired as the head coach at the University of Denver.

DU athletic director Peg Bradley-Doppes made the announcement this afternoon.

Mahoney, 40, replaces Beth Kuwata, who moved into another position within DU's athletic department.

''I am definitely excited about the opportunity to go to DU,'' Mahoney said.

''There's a lot of excellence in that athletic department and to be able to stay in the state that we consider home, to be part of a great academic institution, as well as a great athletic department. To be able to recruit elite students and elite athletes at the same time, you don't get better opportunities than that.''

Mahoney grew up in Boulder, and his wife is a Colorado native. They have three sons -- Macy, 5, Griffin, 4 and Declan, 2.

Mahoney holds both a bachelor's degree in psychology and law degree from the University of Colorado. He spent six seasons as the head coach at Fort Hays State, an NCAA Division II program in Kansas, before coming to Colorado State University as an assistant to Tom Hilbert in 2005. Mahoney's teams went 107-82 at Fort Hays State, including a 31-5 record in 2004, his final season there.

CSU coach Tom Hilbert wished Mahoney well and said this was a great opportunity for his former assistant to run his own program.

''He deserves it,'' Hilbert said. ''He's been working at this for a long time. He's been very loyal to this place, because I know he's had other opportunities. There are certain jobs that fit for him and his family, and this is one of them, so I'm happy that he got it.''

Ruegsegger Hires Power Skating Coach

(above) DU Alum Tyler Ruegsegger is looking to improve his skating
by Doyle Woody

Not more than five minutes after most ECHL Alaska Aces home games, Tyler Ruegsegger emerges briskly from the team's dressing room at Sullivan Arena, still sweating from his night's labor, but still not done.

He wears compression shorts, with a loose pair of shorts over those, and a T-shirt. Invariably, Ruegsegger's clothing is all black -- he just likes black workout stuff. He usually holds a plastic drink container filled with a protein shake and shakes his wrist to mix the concoction as he heads down the hallway to the team's cramped gym [read entire article].

USA Hockey Profiles Jason Zuckers Farewell

From: USA Hockey
by Matt Rybaltowski

If U.S. National Junior Team captain Jason Zucker has played his last game in a Team USA jersey, he left the ice a winner.

Zucker and Team USA closed the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship with a 2-1 victory over Switzerland that clinched seventh place in the tournament.

Jim Johannson, assistant executive director of hockey operations for USA Hockey, said Zucker helped bring a wealth of skills to Team USA from the time he first took the ice at World Juniors in 2010 through today’s game. 

“He does all the little things well,” said Johannson.

Zucker started his World Juniors career with a hard check in his first game and continued to show grit and hustle throughout the tournament. He also continued to improve, according Dean Blais, head coach of the 2010 and 2012 U.S. National Junior teams [read entire article].

DU Hoops vs. Colorado State Tonight

DU @ CSU Basketball

Game Time/Date: 7:00 p.m. EST, Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012

Location: Moby Arena, Fort Collins, CO

TV: The Mtn. - The MountainWest Sports Network
Comcast Digital Cable (411) & DirecTV (616) 

Vote For Drew & Jason

(above) Drew Shore & Jason Zucker

Zucker & Schwartz Profiled In Denver Post

The Denver Post has an article today about Jason Zucker and Jaden Schwartz's participation in the World Junior Championships held up in Canada.

Mike Chambers Blog has more details about the story and some interesting quoted from Coach Gwozdecky, Zucker & Schwartz.

DU Hockey Games To Be Televised In Canada

Score Media Inc. announced that it has entered into a long-term programming agreement with FOX International Sports Channels that includes at least 250 hours per year of live collegiate sports programming [football, basketball & hockey]. The deal includes some of America's top college conferences including the WCHA playoffs and Final 5.

Given the Canadian sports fans' love for quality ice hockey, the deal features live coverage of top-flight programs including the University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin, University of Denver and the University of North Dakota. These schools have produced NHL stars including Jonathan Toews, Phil Kessel, Zach Parise and Thomas Vanek, and feature numerous Canadian players on their current rosters. 

DU Games To Be Televised In Canada

Saturday, February 11
Minnesota at Denver

Saturday, February 18
Denver at Wisconsin

Wiercioch Injury Details Still Not Forthcoming

(above) Patrick Wiercioch was stuck by a puck to the throat in December
After being struck hard in the throat by a hockey puck in early December while playing for the AHL Binghamton Senators, University of Denver alum Patrick Wiercioch continues to recover.

Wiercioch has not played since the injury. The Senators are letting him have some time before making him, or many details, available to the media. But he is doing well.

He has been attending team meetings.

"He needs to be around," Coach Kleinendorst said. "There is no question he is going to get back to 100 percent. It's just a matter of when he gets through this, he'll be a better player because of his experience and what he's been going through."

Tierney Named Mile High Coach Of The Year

(above) DU lacrosse coach Bill Tierney was named by Mile High Magazine as Denver's Coach of the Year
University of Denver men's lacrosse coach Bill Tierney was named the Coach of the Year by Mile High Sports Magazine in its Ninth Annual Mile High Sports Awards. Senior Mark Matthews was also chosen as a finalist for the College Athlete of the Year as the magazine celebrated its 100th issue this January.

The magazine recognized Tierney's incredible progress in only two years at the helm of the DU lacrosse program, including the program's first Final Four appearance, the first NCAA Tournament contest played west of the Mississippi River and a school-record 15 wins in 2011. Coach Tierney beat out Denver Broncos head coach John Fox, Denver Nuggets head coach George Karl, CSU-Pueblo football head coach John Wristen and Regis Jesuit High School men's basketball head coach Ken Shaw.

DU Alums Send Banner To Injured Hockey Player

(above) Debbie & Miller Baird collect signatures on on Saturday night destined for Minnesota high school hockey player Jack Jablonski
The DU hockey team, staff and fans signed a banner organized by Miller & Debbie Baird to support injured high school hockey player Jack Jablonski. Jablonski's spinal column was severed at the C-5 level during a junior varsity hockey game two weeks ago.

DU 5 - Alabama Huntsville 2 FINAL

The University of Denver bounced back from a humiliating defeat on Friday night with a resounding 5-2 victory at Magness Arena.   DU controlled the balance of play and the Shore brothers scored two quick goals in the first period.

Alabama-Huntsville 3 - DU 2 FINAL

The University of Denver jumped out to a 2-0 lead midway through the first period on Friday night at Magness Arena.  But the University of Alabama-Huntsville would have the last laugh as the Chargers came from behind to pull out a 3-2 upset.

Ty Loney and Shawn Ostrow scored for DU.

Denver Post Profiles Juho Olkinoura

Juho Olkinoura
From: Denver Post
by Mike Chambers

A good problem is developing on the University of Denver hockey team.

Freshman goalie Juho Olkinuora, a midsummer pickup who would be playing professionally in Finland if the Pioneers hadn't contacted him in June, is improving as quickly as junior Adam Murray​ and sophomore Sam Brittain are getting healthy [read entire article].

Chambers Blog Has Injury Updates and Xmas Stories

Mike Chambers
Our favorite hockey scribe has been busy this week.

DU's ongoing injury problems include a new name.  Mike Chambers Blog sheds some light on David Makowski, who won't play this weekend, Adam Murray, who may play this weekend & Sam Brittain who is starting to skate.

Chambers has details of University of Denver hockey players Juho Olklinuora and Matt Tabrum's unusual Christmas vacation.  The players spent the holiday at the home of Air Force head coach Frank Serratore and his family.  The blog posting is a great read.

Sign Banner For Injured High School Hockey Player

(above) Fans will be able to sign this banner on Saturday night
DU fans attending Saturday night's hockey game against Alabama-Huntsville at Magness Arena will have an opportunity to send best wishes and thoughts to Minnesota high school hockey player Jack Jablonski.  Known as "Jabby" to his friends, the 16-year-old honors student, hockey forward and varsity tennis player at Benilde-St. Margaret's High School suffered a paralysing injury last week.  Two players rammed Jablonski from behind, smashing him into the boards, and he collapsed motionless to the ice.

According to reports his spinal column was severed at the C 5 level.  Jack had surgery on Wednesday to fuse his vertebrae was it was deemed a success by the doctors, but it also confirmed that his injury was horrific. Jack has limited mobility and no movement in his lower body. At this time it is believed that he will not be able to walk or skate. 

Last year University of Denver forward Jesse Martin suffered three fractures to his C2 neck vertebra, an injury that can often cause death or paralysis.  Jesse was able to undergo a remarkable recovery, although he still suffers from lingering physical issues including headaches and pain in his left arm.

The University of Denver community knows all too well about the trials and tribulations of these vertebrae injuries and it is hoped that signing the banner will share our support for the young man and his family in Minnesota.  The DU hockey team and staff will sign the banner first and then it will be available to the public before the game and between periods.

University of Denver Alum Miller Baird (DU '72) and his wife Debbie worked tirelessly to gather thousands of signatures on Jesse Martin's Banner last year and are spearheading Jack's banner signing this weekend.

New NCHC Commissioner Introduced To Media

(above) Jim Scherr will lead the National Collegiate Hockey Conference
Jim Scherr, the former head of the U.S. Olympic Committee was introduced as commissioner of the new National Collegiate Hockey Conference on Wednesday.  Scherr signed a 4 1/2 year contract with a base salary of $150,000 that will take him through the 2015-16 hockey season. His contract also includes the possibility for bonuses.

The new league will include the University of Denver, Colorado College, North Dakota, Miami, Minnesota-Duluth, Nebraska-Omaha, St. Cloud State & Western Michigan.

Scherr said one of his first tasks will be to help solidify media platforms for the league. The NCHC will soon announce its first television contract. The Grand Forks Herald reported it will be with the CBS Sports Network and it will include around 16 telecasts per season.





High School Player Suffers "Jesse Martin Injury"

(above) Former DU player Jesse Martin is attempting to reach out to the Jablonski family
(above) Minnesota high school hockey player Jack Jablonski fractured two bones in his lower neck

Well-wishers crowded into Jack Jablonski's hospital room and lit up his Facebook and CaringBridge pages all weekend as the high school sophomore and his family awaited a prognosis on a paralyzing injury he suffered during a hockey game on Friday.

"It's a parent's worst nightmare," his father, Mike Jablonski of Minneapolis, said on Sunday in the pediatric intensive care unit at Hennepin County Medical Center. "He dropped and didn't move. Right then and there I knew that my son, that there was something seriously wrong."

Known as "Jabby" to his friends, the 16-year-old honors student, hockey forward and varsity tennis player at Benilde-St. Margaret's scored the first goal of what would be a victory for the junior varsity Red Knights against Wayzata during the Holiday Hockey Classic tournament at the St. Louis Park Recreation Center.

Jack's team was up by one goal 5 minutes and 48 seconds into the second period when he made a dash for the puck near the end boards with two Wayzata players in hot pursuit, said Chris McGowan, the Red Knights' JV coach.

McGowan said two players rammed Jablonski from behind, smashing him into the boards, and he collapsed motionless to the ice.

Jack is in critical condition with two fractured bones in his lower neck. He's unable to move his legs and has only slight movement in his hands and fingers, McGowan said.

Doctors suspect that Jack suffered a bruised spinal cord and won't speculate about his recovery until the swelling reduces, his parents said. Once that happens, surgeons expect to fuse the two broken vertebrae, they added.

Jack was in the offensive zone and was coming around the net when the two Wayzata players slammed into him, his father said. "It was just a very hard hit."

Leslie Jablonski said she feels awful for the other boys, at least one of whom knew Jack from youth leagues.

Although the Jablonskis say they have no hard feelings for the Wayzata team or its coaches, they worry that hockey coaches in general are "sending the wrong messages."

"Players are running at the other players even when they're totally defenseless," Mike Jablonski said.

Leslie Jablonski, who writes a blog called MyHockeyMama, agreed. "The checking seems to be a hot issue. This can be avoided," she said. "In two seconds, our lives just changed. All of our lives changed -- even theirs," she added, gesturing toward a group of visiting teens.

"We just want to make sure this doesn't happen again. And if they keep playing the game the way it is, there's going to be more attacks in situations like this."

Ex-USOC Boss Tabbed To Run NCHC

(above) Jim Sherr will run the new NCHC
According to the Colorado Springs Gazette, former U.S. Olympic Committee chief executive officer Jim Scherr has been selected as the first commissioner of the National Collegiate Hockey Conference.

Scherr resigned abruptly from the USOC in 2009 after a series of layoff and staff reductions.  He led the USOC for six years during which time the USA won a record number of medals in the Beijing Olympic Games and doubling of USA athletes' compensation and aid.

He wrestled for the USA in the 1988 Seoul Olympics finishing 5th.

Denver Post: DU Poised For 2nd Half Rebound

by Mike Chambers

At Christmas, the University of Denver looked like the definition of mediocrity. The Pioneers were 8-7-3 and had lost four of six games behind a third-string freshman goalie who was brought in on an emergency basis last summer.

Don't be surprised, however, if DU is playing in its fifth consecutive NCAA Tournament in March and produces its program-record 11th consecutive 20-win season by the end of February [read entire article].