LetsGoDU Sports Blog

Post: Ty Loney Suspended From DU Hockey Team

2012-02-02T23:59:00.004-06:00

The Denver Post is reporting that University of Denver freshman wing Ty Loney has been suspended and will begin serving his punishment in this weekend's home-and-home series with rival Colorado College.

2012-02-02T23:33:00.000-06:00

"WHITE OUT" Hoops & Hockey Weekend .... Go DU .... Beat CC .... Beat Middle Tennessee

White Out Weekend

Friday

5:30-7 PM DUGS Pregame BBQ & Beer Garden (Public welcome)

7:30 PM DU Hockey vs. Colorado College

Saturday

11 AM-1:30 PM DUGS BBQ on Driscoll Lawn (Public welcome)

2 PM - DU Hoops vs. Middle Tennessee [TV: ESPN2]

4:30 PM - DU Women's Hoops vs. Middle Tennessee

6 PM - DU Gymnastics vs. Iowa State & UAA

7 PM - DU @ Colorado College

DU Fight Song Video

2012-02-02T22:54:00.000-06:00

God Declares A "Denver White Out" On Friday

2012-02-02T20:02:00.009-06:00

In a rare move, Our Lord and Savior has declared a "Denver White Out" on Friday in honor of the DU hockey game with Colorado College. He has instructed all fans to wear "White" to the game to show support for the Pioneer hockey team.

All DU fans and students should stay home from work or classes so they are properly prepared for the big game. Colorado College fans who purchased tickets are encouraged to stay home because of dangerous travel conditions.

No word yet if Tim Tebow will be at Magness Arena on Friday night.

Metro State Board Votes On New Name

2012-02-02T13:45:00.000-06:00

From: Channel 9

DENVER - The board of trustees votes 6 to 3 to change the name of Metropolitan State College of Denver to Metropolitan State University of Denver on Thursday, but the process it not done yet.

In a public meeting attended by about 50 people, the three-year-long process came to a close - at least on the board of trustees' part.

The name change still has to be approved by the legislature. According to the board, the proposed name change will be introduced int he senate education committee next week. If approved by the Senate, it will then move to the House.

Metro officials hope the name change will be official by June, which means logo and sign changes will have to be ready by the 2012-2013 school year.

The name is a compromise from the original name change proposal University of Denver does not plan to take any legal action against this new name proposal.

DU #5 In NCAA Preseason Lacrosse Poll

2012-02-02T13:20:00.000-06:00

(above) Click on Poll above to enlarge

50/50 Raffle Tickets On Friday Night

2012-02-02T10:48:00.001-06:00

(above) Lucky ticket #1957

Don't forget to buy several 50/50 raffle tickets on Friday night. The Raffle tickets usually sell-out during Colorado College games so the prize is around $1,000.

Proceeds from the 50/50 Raffle go to the DU hockey program.

Colorado College last won a National Championship in 1957.

Tweets From Around PioNation

2012-02-01T06:42:00.000-06:00

Goal Czar Picks Up WCHA Hardware

2012-02-01T05:09:00.000-06:00

(above) The Goal Czar had one goal and 5 assists last weekend

University of Denver senior forward Luke Salazar was named Red Baron® WCHA Offensive Player of the Week.

Salazar earns his first WCHA Player of the Week honor after helping Denver to a two-game sweep at Alaska Anchorage, winning 4-2 and 6-3. The 5'7, 155-lbs senior forward matched a career-high with a pair of three-point efforts as Denver increased its winning streak to five games. Salazar tallied a goal and two assists, including the game-winning assist Friday and then added a career-best three assists on Saturday. Salazar finished the weekend with a +6 plus/minus rating and four hits. Salazar has 18 points on six goals and 12 assists in 25 games this season.

NCHC Signs TV Contract With CBS Sports Network

2012-01-31T14:23:00.007-06:00

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

2012-01-31T09:50:00.001-06:00

(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

2012-01-30T15:06:00.006-06:00

(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

2012-01-30T14:02:00.004-06:00

(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

2012-01-30T13:34:00.004-06:00

(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

2012-01-30T01:59:00.004-06:00

(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

2012-01-28T22:35:00.008-06:00

(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

Boxscore
.
Anchorage Daily News Game Racap

WCHA Standings
.
Pairwise Rankings

DU 4 - Alaska Anchorage 2 FINAL

2012-01-27T04:45:00.016-06:00

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

Anchorage Daily News Photo Slideshow

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.

Pairwise Rankings

WCHA Standings

Box Score

Anchorage Daily News Game Recap

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

2012-01-27T04:36:00.001-06:00

(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

2012-01-27T04:00:00.001-06:00

Travis Hallam

From: DenverPioneers.com

360° photo of Magness Crowd

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

2012-01-26T08:26:00.000-06:00

(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

2012-01-26T08:15:00.002-06:00

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

From: Denver Post

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

2012-01-25T05:56:00.005-06:00

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.

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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.

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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.

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Watch parties for the DU vs. Middle Tennessee basketball game are scheduled in Atlanta, Chicago, Northern California and Twin Cities. Click here for details.

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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

2012-01-24T10:08:00.001-06:00

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

2012-01-24T09:51:00.000-06:00

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

DU Recruit Riding 25 Game Winning Streak

2012-01-23T09:55:00.010-06:00

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

2012-01-23T09:17:00.001-06:00

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

Kevin Dineen Q & A

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

2012-01-22T07:58:00.003-06:00

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

2012-01-22T07:43:00.001-06:00

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.

Denver Post Game Recap

Fill Magness To The Rafters Against Middle Tenn.

2012-01-20T16:12:00.006-06:00

(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

2012-01-19T16:20:00.009-06:00

(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

2012-01-17T14:27:00.002-06:00

(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

2012-01-17T11:26:00.000-06:00

(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

2012-01-17T07:08:00.001-06:00

(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

2012-01-15T15:26:00.000-06:00

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

2012-01-15T11:56:00.004-06:00

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

Facebook Event Page

DU Today Article About Lauren

To Make A Donation

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

2012-01-15T07:52:00.000-06:00

“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.

Boxscore

Denver Post Game Recap

USCHO.com Game Recap & Photos

Pairwise Rankings

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

2012-01-15T04:22:00.000-06:00

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

2012-01-14T04:50:00.000-06:00

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.

Boxscore

Denver Post Game Recap

Pairwise Rankings

Its Gameday

2012-01-13T04:00:00.005-06:00

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

2012-01-13T03:52:00.002-06:00

(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

2012-01-13T03:25:00.001-06:00

Jesse Mahoney

From: The Coloradoan

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

2012-01-12T12:31:00.000-06:00

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

From: Anchorage Daily News

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

2012-01-12T12:14:00.000-06:00

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

2012-01-11T16:14:00.000-06:00

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

2012-01-11T12:54:00.000-06:00

(above) Drew Shore & Jason Zucker

Hobey Baker fan voting is now online

Zucker & Schwartz Profiled In Denver Post

2012-01-11T10:48:00.001-06:00

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

2012-01-11T10:13:00.001-06:00

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

2012-01-11T09:26:00.001-06:00

(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

2012-01-11T08:26:00.000-06:00

(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

2012-01-09T13:09:00.001-06:00

(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

2012-01-08T00:25:00.001-06:00

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.

Boxscore

Alabama-Huntsville 3 - DU 2 FINAL

2012-01-06T23:22:00.002-06:00

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.

Boxscore

Denver Post Game Recap

Pairwise Rankings

Denver Post Profiles Juho Olkinoura

2012-01-06T11:39:00.001-06:00

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

2012-01-06T02:20:00.002-06:00

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

2012-01-06T01:40:00.006-06:00

(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

2012-01-05T03:58:00.005-06:00

(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.

Denver Post

Colorado Springs Gazette

Omaha World Herald

Grand Forks Herald

St Cloud Times

Duluth News-Tribune

High School Player Suffers "Jesse Martin Injury"

2012-01-04T00:49:00.004-06:00

(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

Star-Tribune Video & Press Conference

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

2012-01-03T13:09:00.003-06:00

(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

2012-01-02T03:09:00.001-06:00

From: Denver Post

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].

DU 7 - Air Force 1 FINAL

2011-12-31T22:05:00.020-06:00

(above) It was a big night for the Shore brothers as they recorded two goals and four assists

“When you can score early and score first like we did, it really helps you from a psychological standpoint and emotionally,” Denver coach George Gwozdecky said. “We’ve made changes to be in better position defensively, play harder defensively and manage the puck better. They were little subtle adjustments, and you can see the guys start to buy into it more with every period we played this weekend."
-DU head coach George Gwozdecky

The University of Denver hockey team spent a week of practice concentrating on defensive intensity. The result? A ten goal weekend. The Pioneers scored early and often to defeat Air Force 7-1 in Colorado Springs.

For the second night in a row, DU jumped out to an early lead, but tonight, the goals kept ringing up on the scoreboard. Drew Shore (2), The Goal Czar (2), Ty Loney, Chris Knowlton & Joey Lagglia scored for DU.

Juho Olkinuora was solid in goal once again. Fourth-string goaltender Zack Hope notched a few minutes and three saves in mop up duty in the third period.

DU killed off almost four consecutive minutes of 5-on-3 penalty kill before Luke Salazar scored shorthanded on an empty net goal in the third period.

Denver Post Game Recap

Colorado Springs Gazette Game Recap

Boxscore

Pairwise Rankings

Longtime DU Hockey Fan Wins 50-50 Raffle

2011-12-31T07:18:00.000-06:00

(above) Chris holds up his 50-50 Raffle check

Congrats to longtime DU hockey fan Chris Wilson who won $715 on Friday night at Magness Arena in the 50-50 Raffle. Chris has been a season ticket holder for years and its great to see his support of the DU hockey program rewarded.

Raffle tickets can be purchased at every home game for $5 and all the proceeds benefit the DU hockey program. Thanks go out to the many volunteers who sell the tickets each week and organize the Raffle.

DU 3 - Union 1 FINAL

2011-12-30T23:01:00.015-06:00

(above) Nothing gets past the Finnish Line as Juho Olkinuora made 42 saves on Friday night

photo credit: Hyoung Chang, Denver Post

Denver Post Photo Slideshow

With Jason Zucker up in Canada and John Ryder, Beau Bennett, Sam Brittain and Adam Murray on the shelf with long-term injuries, the Denver Pioneers defeated the #10 ranked Union Dutchmen 3-1 on Friday night.

Denver scored on their first two power play shots in the game and the Union starting goaltender was lifted after giving up two goals on four shots. Drew Shore & Joey LaLeggia started things off with power-play goals in the first eight minutes of play. David Makowski assisted on both goals.

DU's makeshift lineup played very well defensively, which was a point of emphasis after Christmas Break. Shawn Ostrow notched DU's final goal.

The Pioneers will face Air Force, who defeated Colorado College 2-1 on Friday night. It was the first win ever for the Falcons over CC in World Arena.

DU Lineup

Loney - D. Shore - Salazar
Knowlton - N. Shore - Doremus
Mermis - Ostrow - Jackson
Larraza - Tabrum - Olszewski

Phillips - Mayfield
Makowski - Didier
LaLeggia - Lee

Olkinuora (42 Saves)
Hope

Denver Post Game Recap

Boxscore

Pairwise Rankings

Czech Republic 5 - USA 2 FINAL

2011-12-30T14:05:00.008-06:00

Internet: NHL.com

TV: NHL Network

Friday @ 1:30 PM MT

Etem-Coyle-Saad

Zucker-Rau-Bjugstad

Miller-Czarnik-Archibald

Tynan-Arnold-Watson

Brickley

Merrill-Tinordi

Clendening-Johns

Forbort-Trouba

Gravel

Campbell-Gibson

News & Notes From Around PioNation-Game Day

2011-12-30T00:10:00.011-06:00

(above) Kyle Ostrow and Anthony Maiani will be playing together again with the ECHL Chicago Express
"There's no way we're going to make any excuses. We have a lineup, the guys we have available, that if we play the way we can, we'll have a good chance. Our primary concern is playing better in our own end. Our team defense has got to improve. That's what we're talking about and working on. Our success is going to hinge on the success we have defensively."
-DU Coach George Gwozdecky

The Denver Post profiles the Air Force hockey team today.

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The DU Mens basketball team opened up Sun Belt Conference play with a 79-62 victory over Troy at Magness Arena on Thursday night. Denver improved to 11-2, tying its best NCAA Division I start, originally set in 1942-43.

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DU basketball is hanging in there at #31 in the Realtime RPI Rankings as of Thursday night.

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DU Hockey returns to action against #10 Union on Friday night at Magness Arena. Puck drop is set for 7:30 PM against Union & and 6 PM MT at Air Force on New Year's Eve.

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While most Denver fans are keeping an eye on Jason Zucker and the Under-20 World Championship, DU recruit Will Butcher recorded two assists as the U.S. National Under-17 Team defeated the Czech Republic, 5-1, at the 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in Ontario.

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Team USA faces the Czech Republic at 1:30 PM MT on Friday at the Junior World Championships. The game can be seen for free on the internet at NHL.com or on TV on the NHL Network.

Finland 4 - USA 1 FINAL

2011-12-28T10:08:00.003-06:00

Internet: NHL.com

TV: NHL Network

Joel Armia had two goals and an assist to lead Finland to a 4-1 win against the United States in a Pool B preliminary-round game Wednesday at the world junior hockey championship.

Finland and the U.S. are both 1-1 in Pool B behind Canada (2-0).

Armia, a first-round draft pick of the Buffalo Sabres, paced the Finland offense. Mikael Granlund, a first-round selection of the Minnesota Wild, and Nashville Predators prospect Mikka Salomaki also scored.

The U.S. faces the Czechs on Friday.

Tyler Bozak Having Breakout Season In Toronto

2011-12-28T00:40:00.000-06:00

(above) DU alum Tyler Bozak is back centering the first line in Toronto

From: TSN.com
by Jonas Siegel

The job that was supposed to belong to high-priced free agent signee Tim Connolly remains in the hands of University of Denver alum Tyler Bozak.

The 25-year-old has registered 19 points in the last 20 games playing pivot for Phil Kessel and Joffrey Lupul on the Leafs first line. And with 24 points already this season, Bozak is just eight points from matching the total he had all of last season in an underwhelming sophomore campaign.

“I think the main thing for me is just confidence,” he told the Leaf Report. “I'm confident now that I can get the job done out there; I can get points, I can keep my own end clean and whenever you're playing with confidence you're a way better player.”

Several improvements have sparked the breakthrough third season, many of which stem from greater accountability in the defensive zone.

Struggling to put points on the board early last season, Bozak admittedly cheated in his own end, looking to jump-start the production expected of a first-line centre. “But you find out the hard way that that just results in more goals against and less goals for you,” he said. The minus-29 rating, which stuck like a scarlet letter to his name (and was amongst the worst in the NHL) was a source of real frustration and top priority for cleanup this fall. A plus-5 rating thus far demonstrates progress in that regard. “Obviously they're still going to be mishaps,” Bozak said. “We're an offensive line and we want to produce offensively and not spend a lot of time in our zone so there's going to be times where we give up some goals, but we're plus players this year which is nice.”

Offensively in the past, there was a strong tendency on Bozak's part to force-feed Kessel the puck. Running shotgun with a regular 30-goal man, he felt the need and obvious pressure to find his high-powered linemate as much as possible. “Early in my career I would force it to Phil all the time,” Bozak conceded, “and even he doesn't want me to do that; he wants me to take my shots when I have my opportunities.” Without a goal in the opening 14 games, Bozak has found twine seven times now in the last 20 games. “I'm more confident now that I can score goals. Obviously still a pass-first guy and I'm going to be looking to make the pass first, but I'm not going to force the stuff like I used to,” he said.

According to Bozak, the offensive pitfalls – which saw him post just 15 goals and 32 points in 2010-2011 despite logging over 19 minutes a game – tied back to what became a constant mental struggle in the defensive end, a circular effect considering the initial source of the miscues (cheating for offence). “I think last year wasn't [so much] confidence [that] I couldn't score,” he explained, “it was just every time I was on the ice I thought I was going to get scored on, more so than thinking I was going to score or our line was going to score. And this year every time we get a shift I think there's a good chance that we can get a goal between the three of us.”

Kessel (41 points) and Lupul (38) sit comfortably amongst the league leaders in scoring this season, primarily (and rather unexpectedly) with the third-year centre in the middle. Connolly was inked to a two-year contract this past summer, specifically to fill the first-line centre void, but with injuries and the line's continued success without him there's been little reason for Ron Wilson switch things up. He aimed ever so briefly last week to get “more the look of what we expected” with Connolly in between Kessel and Lupul, but after two periods reverted back to Bozak.

“I was able to get on [the line] at the right time when Loops and Phil got hot,” Bozak noted. “They obviously don't want to break up a line that's doing well so I think a lot of the credit goes out to the wingers for that.”

In addition to the flexibility he's provided down the middle, Bozak has also recently returned to the penalty-kill – a role he filled with some success last season – while remaining a quiet, but effective presence on the league's 3rd ranked powerplay (nine points).

Brian Burke claimed to have added a player of first-round caliber when he signed Bozak as a free agent from the University of Denver. With his performance so far this season, Bozak is beginning to justify that hype.

Zucker Scores As USA Defeats Denmark 11-3

2011-12-27T09:37:00.007-06:00

(above) Jason Zucker, third from left, celebrates with USA teammates

EDMONTON - Jason Zucker scored a goal and had two assists as the United States dominated Denmark 11-3 to open the world junior men's hockey championship Monday.

Zucker scored the American's 2nd goal after receiving the puck at the red line, he overran Danish defenceman Mark Larsen.
.

With a 3-2 lead going into the second period, the U.S. scored six goals to put the game out of reach.

The majority of the 13,501 at Rexall Place climbed aboard the Danish bandwagon to unite in hostility against a U.S. squad that is seen as Team Canada's biggest obstacle in Pool B.

Toronto Sun Game Recap

Denver Post Game Recap
.
Team USA Photos

DU Basketball Hopes To Build Program's History

2011-12-25T10:42:00.000-06:00

(above) Joe Scott has DU flying high this season

From: Denver Post
By Irv Moss

The more Joe Scott learns about the University of Denver's distant basketball past, the more driven he becomes for what he wants to see in the future.

On a trip to Utah State in November — a 67-54 Denver victory — Scott discovered there's some DU history to build on. The Pioneers have the fourth-longest series on Utah State's schedule. They met for the first time in the 1922-23 season, but they have met just twice since 1978.

Then Monday, the Pioneers played their 148th game in the series with Wyoming. There's Division I men's basketball history at DU, but it needs a dusting [read entire article].

Zucker's Leadership Will Be On Display For USA

2011-12-25T10:41:00.001-06:00

Jason Zucker

From: Star Tribune

by Michael Russo

Even before Dean Blais awarded Jason Zucker the prestigious honor Friday of being the United States' captain for the upcoming World Junior Championships, the University of Denver star proved his leadership to the US coach.

Zucker stood up and addressed the team at the start of training camp.

Two years ago, Zucker was on the American team that upset Canada and won gold in Regina, Saskatchewan. That experience of winning in enemy territory should come in handy this go-round when the tournament takes place in hockey-mad Edmonton and Calgary.

The tournament begins Monday when the Americans take on Denmark.

"Canadian fans are very hostile, and rightfully so -- they're very into the Canadian team," Zucker said. "With that being said, I know what to expect every night. Whether we're playing Canada or not, fans aren't rooting for us.

"They're going to be rooting for Denmark, they're going to be rooting for Finland and everybody else that we play because they don't like us. So we have to be ready for that every night."

This is Zucker's third consecutive world juniors, also medaling last year when the U.S. won bronze. But Zucker is a very different player than the youngster who played on the 2010 gold medal team.

Then, he was a role player -- the youngest player on the squad at age 17. Now he's 19, a college star. Last year at DU, he tied for first in scoring as a freshman with 45 points and was named WCHA Rookie of the Year. This year, he ranks ninth in the nation with 24 points.

In Alberta, Zucker is poised to play on a top scoring line with Minnesota Wild prospect Charlie Coyle and Chicago Blackhawks prospect Brandon Saad.

In a 7-3 exhibition pounding of Switzerland in Camrose, Alberta, on Wednesday, the line combined for three goals and six assists.

"Brandon's going to make plays and help put the puck in the net, and Charlie Coyle, he does everything right," Zucker said. "He blocks shots, he goes into corners, he can hit, he can win faceoffs, he can score.

"I'm ready to lead this team as far as we can go," Zucker said. "I think we have something special in that locker room, and I want to win a gold medal more than anybody knows. I'm going to do everything I can. If I'm doing my best and working my hardest, that will hopefully make guys follow my path."

If you've watched Zucker play, you know he's not lying. He is relentless. His legs always are churning. He's a ferocious forechecker and incredibly fast.

Even in that meaningless exhibition game against Switzerland, Zucker was banging bodies and crashing into the end boards. The evidence was on his face in cuts and bruises.

But Zucker knows only one way. He has a unique passion for the sport considering he was born in California and grew up in Las Vegas. A former stickboy for the now-defunct IHL Las Vegas Thunder, Zucker played for the Las Vegas Outlaws AAA team before moving to Detroit at age 15 to play for distinguished Compuware.

"I give all the credit to my dad and my mom," Zucker said of Scott, the director of construction for 13 Station Casinos in Las Vegas, and his mother, Natalie, a bank teller for Wells Fargo. "They're hard-working people. They taught me when I was really young, 'You may not be the most talented kid ever, but as long as you work hard, you're going to give yourself an opportunity.'

"I really took that to heart, and it's something I carry with me every day. My favorite saying is, 'In pursuit of perfection.' I don't believe perfect can be achieved, but if you work hard to try to achieve that, you'll be great at some point in time."

You can bet the Wild is salivating to sign Zucker after this season.

"They haven't talked to me yet, but I'd be lying if I said it hasn't crossed my mind," Zucker said. "I'm not worrying about it right now, though. I have this tournament ahead of me. This is a huge part of my life and my career, and then I have to get back to Denver and worry about that because my next goal is to win a national championship.

"After that, I'll worry about the Wild."

Zucker Makes Final Roster Of USA National Team

2011-12-23T09:26:00.002-06:00

USA Roster

USA Hockey announced that Jason Zucker and 20 other players have been named for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championship in Edmonton and Calgary. Zucker was named captain of the U.S. National Junior Team.

Zucker is one of two players on this year's roster who has appeared in the last three WJC events for Team USA. Goalie Jack Campbell is the other.

Defenseman Jarred Tinordi and forward Emerson Etem were named alternate captains.

DU Football Played in 1947 Alamo Bowl

2011-12-23T06:52:00.002-06:00

(above) DU dropped football after the 1960 season

From: The Olympian

On Dec. 29th the University of Washington will face Baylor in the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio.

The Alamo Bowl that was started in 1993 was not San Antonio’s first attempt to bring postseason college football to south Texas. A game scheduled to be played on Jan. 1, 1947 – also called the Alamo Bowl – pitted Hardin-Simmons against the University of Denver. It was delayed three days by an ice storm, and when the weather finally thawed at the 23,000-seat Alamo Stadium, the crowd of 3,370 fell far below the expected turnout of 10,000. Organizers took a financial bath, and the Alamo Bowl was one-and-done. (By the way, for those who think there are too many bowl games nowadays, the 1947 postseason was cluttered with the likes of such bowls as the Delta, Dixie, Grape, Great Lakes, Harbor, Raisin and Salad. None would survive beyond 1951.)

DU Defeats The Citadel 70-58

2011-12-23T06:20:00.003-06:00

The University of Denver basketball team defeated The Citadel 70-58 at Magness Arena on Thursday night. Sophomore forward Chris Udofia led all scorers with 19 points, while adding seven rebounds, six assists and two blocks.

DU has a 10-2 record this season.

DU #11 In NCAA Basketball RPI Rankings

2011-12-22T05:54:00.004-06:00

Denver (9-2) vs. The Citadel (2-8)

Thursday, Dec. 22

7 PM MT

Magness Arena

TV: Pioneer Vision

Radio: AM 1510 & FM 93.7

Web: www.DenverPioneers.com

The University of Denver Men's basketball team is ranked #11 today out of 344 NCAA basketball teams in the RPI Rankings which mimics the formula used to select teams for the NCAA Tournament field. DU has three wins over Top 100 teams including victories over #3 Southern Mississippi, #50 St. Marys & 87 Wyoming.

St. Marys & Wyoming have only lost one game each this season and it was to DU. Southern Mississippi's only other loss, besides to DU, was to undefeated Murray State.

DU is 9-2 for the first time since returning to NCAA Division I in 1998-99. DU is second in the nation in free throw percentage (.815), 14th in three-point field goal percentage (.412) and 23rd in field goal percentage (.490).

Three DU Recruits Selected For Under 17-Worlds

2011-12-21T15:13:00.003-06:00

(above) Click to enlarge

Three University of Denver recruits were selected to play for Team USA in the 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge from Dec. 28, 2011-Jan. 4, 2012, in Windsor, Ontario.

Connor Chatham, Gage Ausmus and Will Butcher have committed to attend the University of Denver.

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 (Des Moines, USHL)
D Will Butcher (U.S. Under-17)

2014 Recruiting Class
F Jared Fiegl (Colorado Rampage, U-16)
D Gage Ausmus (U.S. Under-17)
F Trevor Moore (Tri-Cities, USHL)

Tweets From PioNation-Xmas Shopping Edition

2011-12-21T09:33:00.000-06:00

Tweets From Around PioNation

2011-12-20T09:14:00.002-06:00

Chambers Blog Discusses Gwozdecky Contract Situation

Scott Owens Gets Contract Extension From CC

"When Gwozdecky signed his 12-year extension in 2001, taking him to the end of the 2013-14 season (which we didn’t know at the time), the Pioneers staged a splashy news conference to say Gwoz signed a “long-term deal.” How long? “None of your business.” When is his current deal set to expire? “None of your business.” Did he get a raise? “None of your business.” "
-Mike Chambers Blog

DU Hoops Does It Again; Shocks Wyoming 57-46

2011-12-20T04:16:00.004-06:00

(above) Brian Stafford goes to the basket

The University of Denver basketball team continued its amazing season with a convincing win over the University of Wyomingt 57-46 on Monday night in Magness Arena. With another quality win. DU moved up to #23 in the NCAA's "unofficial" RPI rankings.

Denver's 9-2 record is DU's best NCAA Division I mark since opening 11-2 in 1942-43.

The Cowboys (11-2) tied the Pioneers (9-2) at 32-32 with nine minutes left in the contest when DU clamped down defensively. The Pioneers held the Cowboys to just four free throws over the next six minutes to craft a 14-4 run. The Denver spurt was capped by two-straight threes and put DU firmly in control, 46-36, with 3:04 left. UW would hit just two more buckets the rest of the game.

"I have to give their defense credit." Wyoming coach Larry Shyatt said. "They forced us to take contested threes all game. I really feel the difference in the game was they were getting open threes and we were not. Their three point defense is better than ours and it really showed when we couldn't get an open look at three."

Carle & Stastny Met In NHL Tilt On Monday Night

2011-12-20T03:24:00.000-06:00

(Above) The boyz were back in town last night at the Pepsi Center

From: NHL.com
by Rick Sadowski

There was plenty of good-natured bantering last night when former University of Denver teammates Paul Stastny and Matt Carle were on the Pepsi Center ice. The Avs skated away with a 3-2 Shootout victory over the Philadelphia Flyers. Stasny had an assist in the game.

Stastny, who is in his sixth season with the Colorado Avalanche, and Carle, in his seventh NHL season and fourth with the Philadelphia Flyers, played pivotal roles when the University of Denver won a national championship in 2004-05, and they remain close friends.

"It's always fun playing against him," Carle said after this morning pregame skate. "He's always trying to joke around on the ice and stuff. I'm a little more serious when I'm out there and he's always trying to get a laugh out of me when we're playing against each other. It's nothing too serious, but he keeps it fun out there."

The players have continued to follow each other's careers since leaving school after the 2005-06 season.

Stastny, a 25-year-old center, was a second-round pick (No. 44) of the Avalanche in the 2005 NHL Draft and signed with Colorado after his sophomore campaign. Carle, a 27-year-old defenseman, was San Jose's second-round pick (No. 47) in 2003 and signed with the Sharks after his junior season.

While Stastny has spent his entire NHL career with the Avalanche, Carle spent parts of three seasons with the Sharks and 12 games with Tampa Bay before being traded to the Flyers on Nov. 7, 2008.

"After being traded a couple times it's nice to be in one spot for a period of time and to get to know the guys on the team and the coaching staff," Carle said.

Carle has 4 goals and 14 assists in 31 games this season after collecting 7 goals and 68 assists in 162 games over the two previous seasons.

"He's kind of found his niche," Stastny said. "He's been playing really well there. It's a good style for him. He can use his speed and his high offensive skill to jump into the play."

Carle also has 3 power-play goals and a plus-6 rating while averaging 22:31 in ice time.

"Just a really steady, quiet, effective player for us," Flyers coach Peter Laviolette said. "There's not a lot of noise with Matt. You don't hear much about him, but every night he goes in there and recently he's been our top minute guy. He's really good in all zones. He defends other teams' top players, he adds offensively, he plays in all situations for us and he's a great kid in the locker room.

"Quietly, he's one of our leaders on the back end. It doesn't come with a whole lot of hoopla, and I think that's a really good thing. He's just a quiet guy that goes about his business and he's very effective. He's having a terrific year."

Said Carle: "Even when I was in college I was never one of those guys to stand up in the locker room and yell at the guys. I try to lead by example and be a professional and just do what's expected of me."

Wyoming Visits DU Hoops On Monday Night

2011-12-19T09:01:00.001-06:00

DU (8-2) vs. Wyoming (11-1)

Monday, December 19

6 p.m. MT

Magness Arena

TV: ROOT SPORTS • Radio: AM 1510 & FM 93.7

Web: www.DenverPioneers.com

Ticket Special: $12.50 fans receive a ticket, a hot dog and a beer or soda

St. Cloud State 5 - DU 1 FINAL

2011-12-18T08:26:00.003-06:00

St Cloud State defenseman Nick Jensen had a hat trick to lead the men’s hockey team to a 5-1 victory over the University of Denver.

DU Fell behind 1-0 in the first minute of the game and St Cloud never looked back.

Boxscore

St. Cloud Times Game Recap

DenverPioneers.com Game Recap

DU Hoops To Play On Root Sports On Saturday

2011-12-17T09:03:00.002-06:00

DU (7-2) vs. Boise State (8-2)

Saturday, December 17, 2011
4:30 p.m. MT

Magness Arena (7,200)

TV: ROOT SPORTS-Rocky Mountain
Radio: AM 1510 & FM 93.7
Web: www.DenverPioneers.com

Denver Post Profiles Jason Zucker

2011-12-17T08:52:00.002-06:00

Jason Zucker

From: Denver Post

by Adrian Dater

Jason Zucker has a weekend series to play for the Denver Pioneers. Then, he will jet off to Camrose, Alberta, on Sunday for the U.S. world junior team training camp. And he has a future to think about as a draft pick of the Minnesota Wild.

Does the sophomore winger feel like he' s coming, or going? [read entire article]

DU 3 - St Cloud State 2 FINAL OT

2011-12-16T20:11:00.060-06:00

(above) Jason Zucker opened the scoring with a power play goal

DU Lineup

Zucker - D.Shore - Salazar

Mermis - N.Shore - Doremus

Knowlton - Ostrow - Jackson

Larraza - Tabrum - Loney

Phillips - Mayfield

LaLeggia - Lee

Makowski - Didier

Olkinuora [Hope]

1st Period
DU 1 - (PP) Jason Zucker scored on an early Power Play goal. Assists to Drew Shore and David Makowski.

2nd Period
SCSU 1 - Cam Reid
St. Cloud 2nd goal waived off by replay. Goaltender interference.
DU 2 - (PP) Drew Shore from Joey LaLeggia & Nick Shore

3rd Period
SCSU 2 - (PP) Travis Novak

OT
DU 3 - (PP) Drew Shore. Assists Joey LaLeggia & Nick Shore

Boxscore

St. Cloud Times Game Recap

DenverPioneers.com Game Recap

Pairwise Rankings

PioNation Tweets - The On/Off Switch

2011-12-16T13:59:00.010-06:00

Bozak Tweets About "Justin Bieber Roundup"

2011-12-16T11:01:00.003-06:00

From: Busted Coverage Blog

Is Toronto Maple Leafs center & DU Alum Tyler Bozak a nut? We’re not really sure because we don’t know a hell of a lot about him, but we’re beginning to think he is.

This is the same dude who was firing assault rifles with teammate Mike Brown in October, shortly after the NHL season had begun. Nothing could go wrong there, right?

Now, Bozak is recruiting his boys to go to a Justin Bieber concert this summer. He hit up teammate Jake Gardiner on Twitter to pose just that question on Thursday.

We’re not sure when the concert is, but apparently the Leafs don’t really have any plans to be playing in June. Although they haven’t been any good in who knows how long (no, I’m not from Toronto), they’re playing well this season. They’re currently second in the Northeast with 35 points, six points behind the Boston Bruins, but hey, getting into the playoffs for a change is probably enough.

Anyway, we’re not really sure what Gardiner thought about the Bieber concert because he didn’t reply.

However, Ray Kaunisto, who currently plays in the AHL for the Manchester Monarchs and is a Los Angeles Kings draftee, jumped in with the idea to turn the whole thing into an “accidental” Las Vegas excursion.

Gameday: DU @ St. Cloud State

2011-12-16T07:04:00.000-06:00

“I would say the season has been less than successful.”
-Denver head coach, George Gwozdecky

From; St. Cloud Times
by Mick Hatten

Denver and St. Cloud State go into this weekend’s WCHA men’s series in the middle of a clump of teams that will be battling in the second half for first round home ice for the conference tournament.

There are five teams — Colorado College, Denver, Michigan Tech, Bemidji State and St. Cloud State — separated by three points from fourth place to ninth place in the conference standings. The top six teams at the end of the season will get home ice for the first round of the WCHA playoffs.

The Pioneers, who are ranked No. 13/14 in the national polls, did not expect to be in that clump before the season started. They weren’t alone in that outlook [read entire article].

DU Has Ties To Denver's 2022 Winter Olympic Bid

2011-12-16T04:17:00.001-06:00

From: Denver Post

by Kevin Vaughn

Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper & Denver Mayor Michael Hancock have formed an exploratory committee of business and civic leaders to consider the potential benefits, ramifications and costs involved in bidding for the 2022 Winter Olympics.

The 22-member committee will be headed by Don Elliman, from the University of Colorado Medical School, and Anne Warhover, chief executive of the Colorado Health Foundation.

Among its tasks will be to determine not only the costs to bid for the Games but to assess potential venues for the various competitions, including those which would have to be built.

Among those who will be named to the committee are Olympic skier Jeremy Bloom, attorneys Steve Farber & Cole Finegan, Paralympian Sara Will, former Breckenridge Mayor Ernie Blake, Vail Valley Foundation chairman Harry Frampton, and Christine Riordan, dean of the Daniels College of Business at the University of Denver.

DU Women's Hoops In RPI Top 50

2011-12-15T12:24:00.003-06:00

(above) Kaetlyn Murdoch helped lead DU past the Gophers

University of Denver senior forward Kaetlyn Murdoch scored a game-high 21 points to lead the Pioneers to a 72-63 victory over Minnesota on Wednesday evening at Magness Arena. The win improves the Pioneers to 6-0 at home

DU was the preseason favorite to win the Sunbelt Conference. The Pioneers are off to a 8-3 start in nonconference action and have impressive wins over Oregon and Minnesota this week.

DU is ranked #47 in the NCAA RPI Formula. Last season the Pioneers made the WNIT, but the NCAA Tournament appears to be within reach this season.

DU's 2nd Youngest Recruit Tearing Up USHL

2011-12-15T11:16:00.004-06:00

Trevor Moore

From: The Independent
by Seth Blank

As one of the youngest players in the United States Hockey League, Trevor Moore couldn’t be faulted for being nervous.

After all, the 16-year-old forward from Thousand Oaks, Calif., hadn’t ever played on the USHL’s big stage with much bigger opponents than the ones he faced while playing for the LA Selects Hockey Club Under-16 team last season.

“Some of these have full-grown beards and missing teeth,” Moore said. “It was a little intimidating at first, but you get used to it. I have Kenny out there with me so I knew Kenny would protect me.”

Kenny is forward Kenny Brooks who along with Nick Lappin and Moore form the Tri-City Storm’s top line. The line has accounted for 29 of the Storm’s 66 goals this season. Lappin’s 14 goals lead the team, but Moore’s play over the last month has turned heads.

After registering only one point in his first eight games, Moore has 14 points in his last 13. He had a five-game goal streak and has three multi-point games this season. Add it all up and he has eight goals and seven assists in 21 games this year.

And it’s only December.

Knowing that, Storm coach Josh Hauge is anxious to see how Moore will perform after the Christmas break.

“I think his future is bright. We’re expecting big things from him,” Hauge said.

Dave Moore, who played Division III college hockey, got his son into hockey at age 5. Last season, Moore recorded 19 goals and 22 assists in 35 games for LA Selects. His statistics caught the eye of Tri-City, which selected Moore with its first pick in the 2011 Futures Draft.

On his way to Kearney for preseason practice, Moore visited the University of Denver and accepted an offer to join the Pioneers hockey team in 2013. Although he had talked with other schools, Denver was the first to provide an offer and Moore didn’t think twice about saying yes.

“That’s kind of where I always wanted to go,” Moore said.

Now, Moore’s set on becoming stronger and better, not only to prepare for college, but with the hope of getting drafted in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft — the first year he’ll be eligible.

The USHL didn’t treat Moore kindly at first. As he struggled to gain confidence while adjusting to the speed of the game early this season, Moore confessed the learning curve was stiff.

“Practices here are way tougher compared to playing 16s where the drills are all fun,” Moore said. “Here, every drill is just a good skate to get your endurance up. It’s really tough.”

“...It was frustrating at first. I mean I wasn’t coming in expecting a lot of points. I was told it’s a very tough league, which it is. The speed of it at the beginning was very difficult for me.”

But the game’s pace started to slow the more ice time Moore shelved. He also benefited from being on a line with veterans Lappin and Brooks, who have taken the youngster under their wings. Moore said they’ve taught him “everything.”

“Just watching them play in practice and games, they’re unbelievable guys. I’m so fortunate to be on their line,” he said.

Brooks likes what he sees in Moore. He said Moore’s not cocky and is willing to work hard. Now, all he has to do is keep his chin up.

“He’s still working on his consistency, but he’s there most games. ...He gets a little nervous because he missed a shot. He gets a little down on himself on those,” Brooks said. “...You’ve got to tell him ’Hey, you’re going to have plenty of those. I’ve missed plenty. It’s going to be OK.’”

As Moore began to improve, it didn’t take long for him to find a home on Tri-City’s power play. He has three power-play goals and one power-play assist this year - all coming in the last seven games.

Those are solid numbers for a player who started his power-play days extremely cautious.

“I was really nervous at first because it was a big step. I didn’t think I would get there that quickly,” Moore said. “When I first got on there, I was just trying to pass the puck around and not mess up.”

As he began tallying points, Moore’s confidence has soared to the point he’s not preoccupied with playing safe. Instead, he wants to make plays.

“Obviously, confidence is key. Avoiding mistakes, you have to try not to do that. You have to go try to make the play, and I think, including me, all of our young guys are starting to do that now,” Moore said.

Moore aspires to play in the NHL, and he’s doing all he can to make his dream a reality. Whether it’s spending his free time lifting weights to bombarding his coach with questions, Moore wants to make sure he’s doing everything correctly.

Hauge said Moore is “a pleasure” to coach.

“He’s a humble kid that just does whatever you ask,” Hauge said. “He plays hard every night. He wants to get better. He’s asking questions. You tell him to do something and he’s trying it. He may not do it the first time, but you know he’s going to figure out a way to get it.”

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 (Des Moines, USHL)
D Will Butcher (U.S. Under-17)

2014 Recruiting Class
F Jared Fiegl (Colorado Rampage, U-16)
D Gage Ausmus (U.S. Under-17)
F Trevor Moore (Tri-Cities, USHL)

Bad Boyz: UNO Forward Booted From Team

2011-12-15T10:02:00.005-06:00

From: WOWT.com

In a brief statement, University of Nebraska-Omaha hockey head coach Dean Blais announced that senior center Alex Hudson has been dismissed from the team.

Blais says he made the decision after Hudson committed a second violation of team rules this season. He offered no other details.

Hudson had 4 goals and 6 assists in 16 games and had previously been suspended for four games.

Bomb Squad Called To DU Thursday Morning

2011-12-15T08:39:00.003-06:00

(above) The Denver Fire & Recuse at DU Thursday morning

From: Channel 7

The bomb squad was called out to the University Of Denver early Thursday when firefighters found what looked to be artillery shells inside an oven.

The Fire Department responded to an alarm at 2050 East Iliff Ave. around 4:30 a.m.

When firefighters arrived, they found smoke in a science lab.

Firefighters traced the smoke to an oven, and inside they found artillery, according to Kim DeVigil of the Denver Fire Department.

The bomb squad was called out as a precaution.

At 6:45 a.m., firefighters started reopening streets in the area.

Firefighters are now trying to track down the professor of the lab to find out why there were weapons in a science lab oven. After a thorough investigation, the bomb squad determined it was just a "science project gone bad."

DU Basketball Defeats Northern Colorado

2011-12-15T02:50:00.004-06:00

(above) DU Hoops had another big win on Wednesday night

Brian Stafford scored 13 of his 16 points in the second half, leading the University of Denver to a 71-65 victory over Northern Colorado. The victory gave DU another win over a team that made the NCAA basketball tournament in recent seasons. Northern Colorado won the Big Sky Conference last season before losing in the 1st round of the Tournament to San Diego State.
.

Denver trailed early but opened the second half on a 11-0 run, to lead 37-31.

Royce O'Neale added 14 points and Brett Olson 11 for Denver (7-2), which improved to 3-1 on the road. The Pioneers scored 25 points off 18 turnovers and finished 11-of-32 on 3-point attempts.

The game was televised on Altitude Sports.

Video: DU Recruit Landon Smith's Amazing Goal

2011-12-13T16:42:00.005-06:00

(above) DU recruit Landon Smith scores a shorthanded goal for Cedar Rapids

DU recruit Landon Smith (5'10 168 lbs.) is in his rookie season for the Cedar Rapids Rough Ridgers. So far this season he has 4 goals and an assist in 20 USHL games.

The shorthanded goal scored above was a beauty (Dec. 9 vs. Green Bay).

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 (Cedar Rapids, 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 (Des Moines, USHL)
D Will Butcher (U.S. Under-17)

2014 Recruiting Class
F Jared Fiegl (Colorado Rampage, U-16)
D Gage Ausmus (U.S. Under-17)
F Trevor Moore (Tri-Cities, USHL)

Boise State To Join WAC In Most Sports

2011-12-13T10:13:00.001-06:00

Boise State University will return to the Western Athletic Conference as a full member in all sports except football effective July 1, 2013.

The move became necessary when Boise State announced earlier today that it was withdrawing from the Mountain West Conference to join the Big East Conference in football-only for the 2013 season. Prior to joining the Mountain West five months ago, the Broncos had been a WAC member the previous 10 years.

With the addition, the WAC will consist of 11 members for the 2013-14 season; Boise State (non-football), Denver (non-football), Idaho, Louisiana Tech, New Mexico State, San Jose State, Seattle (non-football), Texas State-San Marcos, UT Arlington (non-football), UT-San Antonio and Utah State.

"The addition of Boise State only strengthens an already strong WAC brand," University of Denver Vice Chancellor for Athletics and Recreation Peg Bradley-Doppes said. "Boise State is certainly welcomed by DU and its sports programs."

Bennett's Injury Window Adjusted To 8-12 Weeks

2011-12-13T09:56:00.011-06:00

(above) Beau Bennett's Twitter photo from the hospital after the injury originally occurred on Oct. 26th

University of Denver star forward Beau Bennett's injury recovery prognosis has been increased from 6-8 weeks to 8-12 weeks. On Thursday Bennett had surgery to repair a ruptured tendon in his wrist.

Eight to twelve weeks would place Bennett's return anywhere from the first weekend in February to the first week in March, 2012. DU's schedule in February is chock-a-block full of key WCHA rivals.

Remaining Schedule
Dec. 16-17 @ St. Cloud
Dec. 30 Union
Dec. 31 @ Air Force
Jan. 6-7 Alabama-Huntsville
Jan. 13-14 Bemdji State
Jan. 27-28 @ UAA
Feb. 2 Colorado College
[Possible Bennett Return Window]
Feb. 3 @ Colorado College
Feb. 10-11 Minnesota
Feb. 17-18 @ Wisconsin [DU Hockey Alumni Road Trip]
Feb. 24-25 North Dakota
Mar. 2-3 @ Nebraska-Omaha
Mar. 9-11 WCHA Playoffs
Mar. 15-17 WCHA Final 5

Bad Boyz: Boston University Star Arrested

2011-12-13T08:55:00.005-06:00

(above) BU's Corey Trivino scored a goal against DU earlier in the season

From: USCHO.com & Boston Hockey Blog

Boston University senior and Hockey East leading goal scorer Corey Trivino was arrested Sunday night and charged with three counts of indecent assault and battery.
.

According to the police report, the incident began when a female Resident Assistant heard residents of a room being extremely loud. The RA went to the room to tell them to quiet down, and Trivino followed her back to her room and pushed her door open, the report states. She said in the report that she told Trivino to go back to his room, but instead he allegedly started kissing and groping the victim. The victim told Trivino he was being inappropriate and should leave her room, and he left, according to the police report.

A few minutes later, Trivino allegedly returned and was banging on her door. The RA opened the door slightly and Trivino tried to kiss her, but she pushed him away, according to the police report. The RA said in the police report that she told Trivino "You need to stop," and "You need to go." Trivino allegedly cornered the victim by her desk and attempted to kiss her as she pushed him away, the police report said. She said in the police report that she managed to get him to leave at that time and she then texted a friend for help.

Trivino then returned a third time and banged loudly on the door, according to the report. The victim said in the report that she needed to open the door as part of her RA duties. Trivino allegedly forced his way in again and tried to kiss her, then sat on her bed, took his shoes off, said he would sleep there that night and laid down.

At that time, the RA called the Resident Director of the area, the police report said. When Trivino heard her on the phone with the Resident Director, he put his shoes on and ran out of her room, the police report said, and then the Resident Director told the RA to call the BU police.

According to the police report, "a very intoxicated male" got on the elevator with the police responding to the call. The male identified himself as Trivino and identified his room number as that of the RA, the police report said, at which time he was arrested.
.

Trivino, also charged with two counts of breaking and entering in the nighttime and one count of assault with attempt to rape, is no longer a member of the hockey team, head coach Jack Parker said in the article.

Back in May 2010, Trivino was suspended for an alcohol-related incident before the Hockey East semifinals and missed time at the start of the 2010-11 season. He also missed part on the 2010 season with a broken leg.

Trivino had 13 goals and 17 points in 15 games this season and ends his Terriers’ career with 73 points in 112 games. He was drafted by the New York Islanders in 2008.

DU Alum Patrick Wiercioch Seriously Injured

2011-12-12T09:46:00.000-06:00

From: PressConnect.com
by Joy Lindsay

Binghamton Senators (AHL) defenseman Patrick Wiercioch was transferred to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse on Saturday after spending Friday night at Lourdes Hospital.

Wiercioch, 21, suffered a serious throat injury when he was struck by a puck during the B-Sens' game on Friday. He was in stable condition at the time of the transfer.

"The update on Patty is he's in good hands," B-Sens coach Kurt Kleinendorst said. "At some point, we are going to transport him to Syracuse just to see a specialist. But I know he's doing well. I know he's stable. They've got everything under control. Honestly, still don't know quite what the extent is. But he's in really good hands, and I know he's doing well."

After Saturday's 5-2 loss to the Norfolk Admirals, Wiercioch was on the B-Sens' minds.

"I know that we all care about Patty," Kleinendorst said. "I know that we all have him in our prayers. But how much it affected us ... I hope we didn't dedicate this one to Patty, because it would have been a shame. But any time you have a teammate that something like that happens to, it can't help but affect you in some way."

Wiercioch's teammates are waiting for news about his condition and hoping for the best.

"It's tough whenever anything like that happens," goalie Mike McKenna said. "Some guys in the room have never played with anyone who's been injured in a way like he was. Some of us have -- guys who have been around longer probably have a better chance of it. From a personal standpoint, we play the game, and we often forget about the risks that are associated with it.

"He's been on our minds the last couple nights, but once play starts, you're into the game, and it just tends to go away. Once the game's over, your mind goes back to it. We're all anxiously awaiting an update to see how he's been doing."

Bemidji State 2 - DU 1 FINAL

2011-12-10T21:40:00.007-06:00

The University of Denver struggled on the power play all weekend and it came back to bite them on Saturday night. DU fell behind Bemidji State 2-0 before Daniel Doremus scored in the third period.

Juho Olkinora was heroic between the pipes but it wasn't enough to hold off Bemidji.

DU had plenty of offensive opportunities, but ultimately going 0 for 6 on the power play did them in.

Boxscore

Bemidji Pioneer Game Recap

Photos

Pairwise Rankings

Ruegsegger Joins DU Mates In Bridgeport

2011-12-10T09:31:00.002-06:00

(above) Tyler Ruegsegger is going to be reunited with former DU teammates Rhett Rakhshani & Matt Donovan

From: NorwalkPlus.com

The Bridgeport Sound Tigers announced today they have signed forward Tyler Ruegsegger to a professional tryout contract (PTO).

Ruegsegger, 23, joins the Sound Tigers after amassing 15 points (eight goals, seven assists) in 22 games with the Alaska Aces of the ECHL this season. The Lakewood, CO native made his professional debut last season splitting time with Alaska and Utah of the ECHL, combining for 29 points (16 goals, 13 assists) in 58 regular season games.

Ruegsegger turned pro last season after the conclusion of his collegiate career at the University of Denver where he played alongside current Sound Tigers Rhett Rakhshani and Matt Donovan. A sixth round (166th overall) pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.

DU 3 - Bemidji State 2 FINAL

2011-12-09T18:40:00.011-06:00

(Above) DU wins while UND & CC lose on Friday night

Juho saves DU again

.With star winger Beau Bennett back home resting a surgically repaired wrist, it was all hands on deck for the University of Denver in Bemidji, MN on Friday evening. Jason Zucker and Drew Shore pulled out the victory and DU won a dramatic come-from-behind thriller over Bemidji State 3-2.

Zucker scored his second goal with less than eight minutes remaining to tie the game. Just under three minutes later, Drew Shore scored the game winner.

Goaltender Juho Olkinuora recorded his second career victory with 21 saves.

Shawn Ostrow received a deep cut around his skate that sounded very serious, but he was able to return in the third period.

Box Score

Photos