11/9 Southwest Players Update

Here's another news update with local players recently.

*First off, Aberdeen Wings Goalie Frederieck Lesiner was named the League's Goalie of the Week back on November 1 after a huge weekend where he stopped 79 of 83 saves in a pair of victories which included both his first shutout with a 3-0 win and his first shootout of the season (both against the Coluee Region Chill).

He's been a big part of the season's turnaround as well as forwards like Cody Ward who's in a 3 way tie for 3rd in goals scored with 13 along with Rock Einersen (Texas Tornado) and Ft. Worth Native Michael Hill (Topeka Roadrunners).

After the Wings started the season losing 5 of their first 6, the Wings are slowly beginning to turn-around their season as Aberdeen is now in 4th place with 15 points (7-9-1) and is just 3 points back of both the defending Champion Bismarck Bobcats and Owatonna Express.

*Nebraska-Omaha's Johnnie Searfoss ended his five game pointless streak in a big way as he helped blow open a 3-0 lead into a 5-0 victory as he scored 2 goals in just 29 seconds on both sides of a 2 man advantage. He also assisted on the opening goal of the game where the UNO Mavericks continue to be unbeaten in WCHA Play at 4-0 and is 7-1-0 overall through 8 games. They trail by just 1 point to Minnesota-Duluth who's 4-1-1 in conference.

His big weekend didn't end there for the UNO Mavericks, he also scored his scored on Saturday in a 5-2 win in the 2nd game against Minnesota State. This takes his total from 1 point going into the weekend to 5 now, including 4 goals in 8 games played.

*Colin Jacobs had  an assist in the battle where it brought in a lot of Dallas Interest as he went up against Dallas Stars Prospect Scott Glennie and the Brandon Wheat Kings back on Saturday Night. The 2011 NHL Draft Prospect is beginning to find his grove after a lack-luster season last year where the Thunderbirds had one of the youngest teams in the entire WHL last season.

 He also had a goal and an assist in a 4-1 win over the Red Deer Rebels which included one of the best goals of his career as he had a great backhanded goal to make it 2-0 in the 2nd period.

Here's the Video of Colin Jacobs Backhand Goal VS. Red Deer


Here's the Latest Stat Update. Click the Players Name to see their player profile.

WHL/NCAA

Colin Jacobs  (Seattle)   15 GP  12 PTS  (5G 7A),  +1  24 PIM

Austin Smith  (Colgate)    6 GP    6 PTS   (2G 4A), 2 PIM

Armand De Swardt (Cornell)    2 GP   0 PTS   (0G 0A), 2 PIM

Locke Jillson  (Cornell)     4 GP   3 PTS   (1G 2A), 6 PIM

Keir Ross (Cornell)      4 GP   1 PTS   (0G 1A), 0 PIM

Chris Brown (Michigan)   10 GP   6 PTS   (1G 5A), 0 PIM

Jacob Fallon (Michigan)   5 GP   1 PTS    (1G 0A), 6 PIM    

Erik Higby (No. Michigan)   6 GP    2 PTS   (1G 1A),   10 PIM

CJ Ludwig (No. Michigan)    7 GP   0 PTS   (0G  0A),   26 PIM

Johnnie Searfoss (Neb.-Omaha)  8 GP   5 PTS   (4G 1A), 4 PIM

Matt Donovan (Denver)    10 GP   5 PTS  (3G 2A), 24 PIM

Chase Grant (Minn. State)    10 GP   5 PTS   (3G 2A)   2 PIM


USHL

Ian Young  (Chicago)    12 GP    8 PTS   (1G 7A),  +4  15 PIM

Tyler Aumgurgey (Dubuque)    10 GP   0 PTS (0G 0A), +1  14 PIM

Colton Hargrove (Fargo)    12 GP  3 PTS  (2G 1A), -5  36 PIM

Blake Coleman (Indiana)    10 GP   12 PTS  (4G 8A), +4  19 PIM

Josh Berge  (Lincoln)      6 GP  5 PTS  (2G 3A), +1 0 PIM

Cole Martin (Lincoln)     6 GP   3 PTS   (2G 1A), +2  6 PIM

Ryan Daugherty (Omaha)    8 GP  3 PTS   (1G 2A), +2  12 PIM

Greg Johnson  (Sioux City)   6 GP   0 PTS  (0G 0A), -3  0 PIM

Mike Williams (Sioux City)   8 GP   1 PTS  (0G 1A), -4  14 PIM

Seth Jones  (USNTDP)    6 GP     3 PTS  (1G 2A), +1  6 PIM


NAHL

Frederick Leisner (Aberdeen)   15 GP   7-7-1   3.54 GAA   .899 SV%

Tommy Rizzardo (Bismarck)    17 GP   6 PTS  (4G 2A), +5  33 PIM

Nicholas Miglio  (Bismarck)    10 GP   1 PTS  (1G 0A),  -1    8 PIM

Kyle Hughes (Corpus Christi)   16 GP  11 PTS  (1G 10A), -5   45 PIM

Axel Boyer  (Texas)     17 GP  9 PTS  (4G 5A), +9  27 PIM

Sean Hederick (Texas)   9 GP  7 PTS  (4G 3A), +4  2 PIM

Taylor Hendron (Texas)   15 GP   7 PTS  (3G 4A), +6  2 PIM

Marc Biggs  (Texas)    17 GP   10 PTS  (7G 3A),  +12  6 PIM

Jake Stafford (Texas)   9 GP    5-2-2    2.85 GAA   .874 SV%

Jacob Poe  (Topeka)    16 GP   8 PTS  (0G 8A),  E  37 PIM

Michael Hill (Topeka)   16 GP   26 PTS  (13G 13A), -4  34 PIM

Mason Miller  (Topeka)  7 GP   0 PTS  (0G 0A),  E  2 PIM

Cory Ramsay  (Topeka)   16 GP   3 PTS   (1G 2A), -4  25 PIM

Kyle Sharkley (Topeka)   6 GP   2 PTS  (1G 1A), -1  10 PIM

Tyler Hope  (Wenatchee)   16 GP  7 PTS  (3G 4A), E  34 PIM

10/25 Local Players Update

Here's an update on how the Southwest Players are doing and some of the headlines from last week.

*Austin Smith had a great game on Saturday Night where he had 3 assists as he along with follow Forward Brian Day was looking to help be a part of a massive comeback against the Lake Superior State Lakers in a 5-4 loss where it was looking like the game was going to OT, that was before Lake Superior scored a goal with just 14 seconds left in the game to squeak out the win where the Lakers were able to sweep the Raiders in the Non-Conference Matchup of ECAC VS. CCHA Teams are looking to return to prominence this season.

So far for the Raiders, this puts them at 1-2-0 as they continue Non-Conference Play next weekend when the Raiders will host Sacred Heart of the Atlantic Hockey Conference as this will be their only game this weekend.

*Chase Grant played a huge role in getting Minnesota State's first win of the season as he scored 2 of the teams 3 goals in the 2nd period as the Mavericks overturned a 2-0 deficit in the 1st period. In the 3rd period, the Mavericks were able hold on during a wild 3rd period as the Mavericks were able to survive back-and-fourth period with the Mavericks were able to score with 8-and-a-half minutes left and goaltender to survive a Colorado College Barrage as they out shot Minn.-State 20-8 in the 3rd period. This takes Grant's goal total to 3 in 6 games which is in control of the team lead through 6 games.

*Who's Hot: Marc Biggs of the Texas Tornado who's scored 6 points in the last 6 games (Including 5 goals) as he takes his total to 7 points in 13 games (5G 2A) this season. Due to some injures like to key players like J.D. Howard and David Rigatti in recent weeks allowed him to get some more opportunities and he is now taking advantage of them as he has been a big part of the Texas Tornado's 8 Game Winning Streak which has taken the team to 1st Place in the NAHL South Division.

*Who's Not: Ryan Daugherty of the Omaha Lancers who's been held pointless through 8 games so far this season. For the player who was named an assistant captain to help them out with a mostly younger group reflects that as no one on the team has more then 3 points so far this season, which includes a 3-0 shutout against the Indiana ice.

Colin Jacobs had a strong game for the Seattle Thunderbirds last week as he scored the only goal in regularization. He also was able to provide some physical toughness with a couple of big hits and 2 minor penalties over the weekend. Even though the Thunderbirds are currently 5-2-2 and even though they are in 7th place in the WHL Western Conference, but they have played the fewest games in the league so far as the WHL as been in action for a little over a month now.

It will be a busy 3 game week for the Thunderbirds coming up this week, first on Tuesday it will be the defending Western Conference Champion Tri-City Americans coming to town, then the T-Birds will entertain Brett Connolly and the Prince George Cougars will be in town on Friday, then it's a trip to BC as they will travel north to Kamloops to play the Blazers.

*In one of the biggest Non-Conference Matchups of the weekend, Johnnie Searfoss of Neb.-Omaha as well as Chris Brown and Jacob Fallon were held pointless in their 2 game set in Michigan over the weekend. Neb.-Omaha had the better of them on Friday Night with a 4-2 victory, while Michigan just crushed the Neb.-Omaha Mavericks with a 6-1 win.

*Unfortunately with the Roster for the World Jr. A Challenge which just came out today, none of the Southwest Players from the United States Hockey League made the roster. This should be a surprise as they mostly look for players who have already either been drafted by NHL Clubs or players that they think will be selected in the Draft.

I thought the players with the best chances to possibly fill in if they are any major injures is Blake Coleman who's leading the Ice in scoring with 7 points (2G 5A) and Ian Young who's a Colorado College Commit and is among the leading defensemen in scoring and is improving his hitting ability. Look for more on the roster and this year's team.


Here's a Stats Update for this week.

WHL/NCAA

Colin Jacobs (Seattle)       9 GP   4 G   4 A    8 PTS   +2  12 PIM

Chris Brown (Michigan)   6 GP    1 G   1 A    2 PTS    0 PIM

Jacob Fallon  (Michigan)  2 GP    0 G   0 A    0 PTS    4 PIM

Erik Higby (No. Michigan)    2 GP   0 G  1 A   1 PTS    8 PIM

C.J. Ludwig (No. Michigan)   5 GP   0 G  0 A   0 PTS    6 PIM

Austin Smith (Colgate)       3 GP   1 G   3 A    4 PTS    0 PIM

Armand De Swardt (Cornell)   Season hasn't started yet.

Locke Jillson (Cornell)     Season hasn't started yet.

Keir Ross (Cornell)  Season hasn't started yet.

Johnnie Searfoss (Neb.-Omaha)    6 GP   1 G  0 A  1 PTS    2 PIM

Chase Grant  (Minn. State)   6 GP    1 G   3 A   4 PTS    0 PIM

Matt Donovan (Denver)    6 GP    2 G    0 A    2 PTS    12 PIM


USHL

Ian Young (Chicago)      8 GP   1 G    4 A    5 PTS     +6     11 PIM

Tyler Amburgey (Dubuque)  6 GP   0 G  0 A   0 PTS    +1   12 PIM

Colton Hargrove (Fargo)      6 GP    2 G   1 A   3 PTS   -3   34 PIM

Blake Coleman (Indiana)     7 GP    2 G    5 A   7 PTS   +3  17 PIM

Cole Martin (Lincoln)      3 GP    0 G    1 A    1 PTS    +1    4 PIM

Josh Berge (Lincoln)      4 GP    2 G     3 A     5 PTS    +1    0 PIM

Ryan Daugherty (Omaha)   5 GP    0 G   0 A    0 PTS   -2    8 PIM

Greg Johnson (Sioux City)   6 GP    0 G   0 A    0 PTS    -3   0 PIM

Mike Williams (Sioux City)   6 GP   0 G   0 A   0 PTS     -4   10 PIM

Seth Jones (USNTDP)     3 GP    0 G   2 A     2 PTS    +1    2 PIM


NAHL

Frederick Lesiner (Aberdeen)  10 GP    5-4-1     3.85 GAA   .895 SV%

Tom Rizzardo (Bismarck)     14 GP     1 G  2 A   3 PTS    +3   33 PIM

Nicholas Miglio (Bismarck)    8 GP     1 G    0 A   1 PTS   -1   8 PIM

Derrek Schrtz  (Corpus Christi)     9 GP    1 G   1 A   2 PTS    -5   14 PIM

Kyle Hughes (Corpus Christi)    12 GP     1 G    8 A   9 PTS    -3   43 PIM

Axel Boyer  (Texas)     13 GP    2 G   3 A    5 PTS     +6    4 PIM

Sean Heidrick  (Texas)    6 GP   4 G   1 A   5 PTS      +4    0 PIM

Taylor Hendron (Texas)   12 GP   3 G   4 A   7 PTS    +5   2 PIM

Marc Biggs  (Texas)     13 GP    5 G    2 A    7 PTS     +9   4 PIM

Jake Stafford (Texas)   8 GP    4-2-2      3.20 GAA    .865 SV%

Jacob Poe  (Topeka)     14 GP    0 G    6 A    6 PTS     -1    35 PIM

Michael Hill (Topeka)   14 GP   11 G   11 A   22 PTS    -2   30 PIM

Mason Miller (Topeka)   6 GP   0 G     0 A     0 PTS      E   2 PIM

Cory Ramsey (Topeka)   14 GP   1 G   2 A     3 PTS      -1  19 PIM

Kyle Sharkly  (Topeka)    4 GP    1 G   0 A     1 PTS      -1   4 PIM

Tyler Hope  (Wenatchee)   11 GP   2 G   3 A   5 PTS     E    25 PIM

Things to watch for this Weekend

Here's some things to watch for from Southwest Teams and some of the top players this weekend.

 Texas Tornado have a chance to really get some long home stretches on the right foot and send a message to their leagues that they are for real and make an impact to the league.

After this weekend's games against the Corpus Christi Icerays, the Tornado will begin a home stretch that's even longer then the Dallas Stars 6 game Homestand as the Tornado starting next weekend will play the Wenatchee Wild which kicks off 13 of their next 17 at home. This is a chance to start getting a long winning streak and get some breathing room between them and the South Division Bunkmates.

However, with some critical injuries like J.D. Howard and the team leading scorer Rock Einersen, they will provide quite a challenge for the rest of the team to show up and possibly could lead to a call-up from one of their prospects, especially from the Texas Tornado U18 Team at some point like Mico Solarzino was able to take advantage of last year.

All 4 AHL Teams have very busy weekends on tap with Houston, San Antonio and Oklahoma City are going to have a 3 game-in-3-night weekends. Oklahoma City will need to be able to survive a very tough weekend with the Barons playing a Friday Night Home Game against the Barons, but after that, it's the start of a very fast 5 game road trip which includes a tough trip to Ontario where they will play the Toronto Marlies on Saturday.

Then a Sunday Afternoon game against the Hamilton Bulldogs where the spotlight will be on them with the game being televised on both CBC (Canada) and the NHL Network (USA) this weekend. After a first 3 games that weren't very good, it's beginning to crank up which includes an 8-2 win over Houston and getting the team's first ever Shutout against the Lake Erie Monsters as well.

Some other interesting games include the Lake Erie Monsters as they have gone 0-2 on their Southwest Road Trip as the Monsters get the Texas Stars tonight, then will wrap up the road trip tomorrow in Houston against the Aeros. Hopefully both the Stars and Aeros will continue their success against Lake Erie as the Monsters have had the bite taken out of them so far as the Monsters sit 6th in the North Division at 2-3-1.

Other games of note include the Peoria Rivermen playing the Houston Aeros tonight and heading to Texas to take on the Stars tomorrow night.

As of right now the Barons and Rampage are look to continue their good start as they are 2nd & 3rd in the West Division, while the Stars & Aeros are looking to climb up the West Division Ladder as they sit 6th and 7th. But with each team playing less then 6 games, look for some interesting matches and a lot of  switching around coming up. So the big question is that come Sunday & Saturday, who can fight off the possible fatigue and get some critical wins early on in a very busy AHL Weekend.

Battle of Unbeaten's faceoff in huge early season show down as Johnnie Searfoss of Neb.-Omaha and Chris Brown of Michigan. After making their WCHA Debut in a huge fashion, Nebraska-Omaha stunned the University of Minnesota by winning both games.

Neb.-Omaha is looking to continue their hot start with a tough Michigan team at the University of Michigan this weekend. Another big win or even a great looking split will show the country that the Mavericks will look to be big contenders in their first season in the WCHA

So far from Chris Brown and Johnnie Searfoss. They both have been off to slow starts stats wise, but both are providing a ton of energy and strength. Searfoss has the one goal from the 8-0 thrashing of Clarkson while Brown got his first goal of the season came last weekend against the University of New Hampshire.

Battle for first in CHL Southern Conference between Allen & Bossier-Shreveport. After a 6-4 win for the Americans in Shreveport last night, both the Americans and Mudbugs are tied for first with 6 points and will be looking to take outright control of the series in the Bayou tonight after the Mudbugs are hoping to use their strong offense that has them to a league best 22 goals in 4 games tonight to be an Americans offense that has a crew of players like Bruce Graham and Tobias Whelan.

Even though it's not the trio of players like Musitelli and Bowers have either moved on to the AHL or elsewhere in the CHL, it's still a group that score like crazy in this league. So it will be interesting to see who will take early control in the CHL's Southern Conference after tonight's game.

After tonight, the rest of the weekend, it's trip to Kansas as the Americans will take on the Wichita Thunder on Saturday Night. For the Mudbugs, it's a trip to Dallas to take on the Texas Brahmas at the very loud NYTEX Sports Center.


Here's this weekends schedule

Dallas Stars

10/23: VS. Nashville Predators    7:00 PM  (TXA 21)


American Hockey League

10/22

San Antonio Rampage VS. Oklahoma City Barons   Just Started at 7:00 PM

Lake Erie Monsters VS. Texas Stars    7:30 PM

Peoria Rivermen VS. Houston Aeros    7:35 PM


10/23

Oklahoma City Barons VS. Toronto Marlies   4:00 PM

Houston Aeros VS. San Antonio Rampage    7:00 PM

Peoria Rivermen VS. Texas Stars    7:00 PM


10/24

Oklahoma City Barons VS. Hamilton Bulldogs   12:00 PM  (NHL Network)

Peoria Rivermen VS. San Antonio Ramapge    3:00 PM

Lake Erie Monsters VS. Houston Aeros    4:00 PM


Central Hockey League

10/22

Odessa Jackalopes VS. Bloomington Paririe Thunder   7:00 PM

Allen Americans VS. Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs   1st Per. 10:58 Just Started

RG Valley Killer Bees VS. Texas Brahmas   7:30 PM


10/23

Odessa Jackalopes VS. Dayton Gems    6:30 PM

Tulsa Oilers VS. Bloomington Prairie Thunder    7:05 PM

Allen Americans VS. Wichita Thunder    7:05 PM

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs VS. Texas Brahmas   7:30 PM

RG Valley Killer Bees VS. Laredo bucks   7:30 PM



North American Hockey League (NAHL)

10/22

Wichita Falls Wildcats VS. Amarillo Bulls    10:48  1st Just Started

10/23

Texas Tornado VS. Corpus Christi Icerays    7:05 PM

Wichita Falls Wildcats VS. New Mexico Mustangs   8:30 PM


10/24

Texas Tornado VS. Corpus Christi Icerays    3:05 PM

Wichita Falls Wildcats VS. New Mexico Mustangs    6:00 PM

Austin Smith Q&A

Austin Smith is becoming one of the major faces of Hockey in the Southwest. Since he was drafted by the Dallas Stars back in 2007, he's in a very unique position where not only he could be one of the first Texans to play professionally, but be able to play a huge part of his pro career in Texas with the Dallas Stars and also the The team's AHL Affiliate in Austin where he can show his talent in his home state.

Shortly after he got drafted, he played his one and only year of Juniors with the Pentiction Vees in the British Columbia Hockey League. He made his time count there by being 2nd overall in scoring and lead the Vees in goals during the regular season with 32 goals in 60 games. Then he lead the Vees to the 2008 BCHL Title by scoring 22 points in 15 games.

Then through his first two seasons at Colgate where he as averaged nearly a point a game by scoring 72 points in 73 career NCAA Games where he been lucky not to get injured or have anything else get in his way of his NHL Dream. After losing to St. Lawrence in the ECAC Quarterfinals last season despite finishing in 4th place and getting a first Round Bye. The Raiders are looking to beat St. Lawrence as well as ECAC Powerhouses Cornell & Yale as the Colgate Raiders will look to get back to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2005.

A speedy undersized player who has a dynamite scoring threat on the ice, he's going to take on the challenge of being a marked man for the Raiders who can fly on the ice. If he can help guide his team to the ECAC Title and continue to make major strides towards both a Conference Title and a NCAA Berth, as well as getting a chance to show the Stars that he is ready to make his pro debut (perhaps in Austin with the Texas Stars), then on to Dallas where he looks to possibly be the first Texan born and trained player to play in the National Hockey League in the near future.

He's starting to realize that he could be a possible game changer when it comes down to helping promote the sport here in Texas. Not only be playing so well in the BCHL & NCAA, but by someone who could spend a huge chunk of his pro career in Texas where fans can ID. and realize that players coming from Texas can start becoming a big reality.

In addition to Smith, Chris Brown of Flower Mound was a 2009 NHL Draft Pick of the Phoenix Coyotes and just started his sophomore year with Michigan University. Also coming down the pipe are Colin Jacobs who's playing his 2nd season with the Seattle Thunerbirds (WHL) and is being considered as a player who should go pretty high in the 2011 Draft next summer. Also Seth Jones who just recently made his debut for the USNTDP and many think he could be a big time prospect for the 2012 NHL Draft as well.

In the Q&A, Austin talks about his path to the Pros, learning about becoming a more complete player and teaching others about the benefits and the excitement of promoting the NCAA & Different Junior Leagues to others who have these dreams of their own. In addition, his reaction to Mike Modano leaving Dallas and what he misses the most about living in D/FW.


Here's his profiles and recent segments and stories.

Austin Smith's Colgate Profile

A-Z Inside College Hockey

Austin Smith named All Preseason ECAC

Austin Smith Pentiction Vess Profile from the BCHL


Here's the Austin Smith Q&A

1. Even though you are expected to be the main player for Colgate at least offensively this season, what will be the biggest challenge of being a marked man and who are you expecting to help you out as well?

The biggest challenge will be to staying focused and composed. However, I enjoy the challenge and I look forward to facing whetever obstacles I come up against. My team will help me get through it this year. I believe we are very deep and have good chemistry; we will have a very successful season as a team.


2. What was the biggest thing that contributed to your ECAC Conference Tournament Disappointment against St. Lawrence in the ECAC Conference Quarterfinals last year after finishing 4th and earning a first round bye last season?

I don't know if I can point to one thing in specific, but I think we came up against a hot goaltender and a team that had our number. With that being said I think our team this year is very determined and will use that as motivation to win our league and make it to the tournament.


3. As you enter your Junior Season at Colgate University, what's been the biggest thing that Head Coach Don Vaughan has taught you both on and off the ice and how it's affected your play?

He has taught me to keep my composure and he has helped me to keep my confidence throughout all parts of the season. He is a great teacher on the ice, and I have learned a great deal about playing both ends of the ice under his close watch. He is a great mentor and I have a great relationship with him that will carry beyond my years here at Colgate.


4. How far away are you from making your professional debut? Also, what are the biggest things you still need to work on before making the step from the NCAA to the Professional Ranks?

Making the jump is about confidence and preparation. I believe I'm very close to making that step, but at the same time I like to stay focus on the present and doing what I can here in the university to become a better all around player.


5. If you do end up playing for the Stars, how do you feel that this can be a major game changer on how the sport of hockey is promoted in the state of Texas. Not just for the Stars, but also educating fans and the public about the different junior leagues and the NCAA. In addition, helping out leagues and org. like the AT&T Metroplex HS Hockey League and Travel Teams like the Dallas Stars Elites.

It would help all those kids who have the dream to realize it is a reality. Being born and raised in Texas fellow Texans would be able to have someone to look up to, and say he made it so why can't I? More then anything it would be the inspiration, but at the end of the day I think Texas will see an increase in professional players in the near future.


6. Even though you weren't at Dallas Stars training camp that just wrapped up as the team gets ready to start the season, how much are you in contact with them to track your progress and have they mentioned to you about your chances of maybe at least getting some playing time with the Dallas Stars AHL Affiliate in Austin if you have another strong year this season?

I have a good relationship with the organization and I do keep in touch. But I am worried about at this time is being an impact player for Colgate, and when that time comes to make a decision I will reflect on my options when the time is appropriate.


7. Every time your back in Dallas, how much have you been involved in looking to promote the NCAA and different Junior Leagues to other players who may have a shot of making these levels themselves?

I do what I can to spread the word, and I have talked to a decent amount of players in the area giving my story and my take on it all. I hope for the best for the future of Texas Hockey I would love to see more players in the position that I am in.


8. For those of whom that have never heard of Colgate University, give us an idea of what the school is like and is known for academically? Also what its like to live and play in Up State New York over the last couple of years.

Colgate University is one of the top Universities in the country. Its comparable to the likes of Cornell, Princeton, Yale, etc. The campus is incredibly beautiful, and it is an awesome place to be. I enjoy playing up here and traveling around the ECAC. The only downfall would be the brutal winters and the bitter cold.


9. Who do you feel your biggest rival is in the ECAC and who are you looking to knock off in the Conference as the season is about to begin?

For some reason we haven't beaten St. Lawrence since I have been here; so those games will be of great importance this season. Our two biggest rivals this year will be Cornell and Yale. They are both very good teams that we would enjoy beating, and if we want to finish on top they will most likely be the teams to beat.


10. Is there a current NHL Player do you try to model your game after?

Andy McDonald


Quick Hits

With the State Fair of Texas going on, what do you think of Fried Foods like Deep Fried Chili Pie, Deep Fried Pop Tarts and Fried Beer?

HAHA I mean that they taste great, but they are not good for you... So I guess I have mixed emotions.


Celebrity that you would like to meet the most?

Keira Knightley or Josh Hamilton


Your reaction to Mike Modano leaving the Stars over the Offseason?

It's disappointing because he's done so much for the organization, but Joe knows what's best for the team and I respect the decision.


Other then family, the thing you miss the most about D/FW?

I miss the food the most. I love Mexican Food, barbecue, Chickfila, Chipotle, etc. New York can't offer the same quality of food.

Southwest Player Notes and Updated Stats

With the Junior Leagues being fully underway for a couple of weeks now, plus the NCAA Season getting underway this past weekend. This is the first at will be a weekly segment on how players are doing from around the Southwest and taking a look at a stats update from our players that are playing around North America.

Southwest Player Notes

*After Cole Martin suffered a minor injury during training camp and staying out of the first few games. He got his first USHL Point in his USHL Regular Season Debut with an assist on a Dominik Shore goal early in the 3rd period in 5-3 loss to the Waterloo Blackhawks.

*In addition to Martin's first point, OKC Native Josh Berge was named captain of the team for the upcoming season. Lincoln Stars President told me in an email that Josh is a quiet leader who leads by example and was voted by a huge margin. He also got his first point in the season in the same game on a Ryan Dzingel early in the 2nd period, where the Stars were looking to mount a comeback as they scored twice within a minute early in the 2nd period.

*Eventhough Ryan Daugherty has had a slow start for the Omaha Lancers, he was named Assistant Captian of the team along with Seth Ambroz who's expected to be a top 10 pick in the NHL Draft this season. Also being named the main captain after Daugherty and Ambroz is Mike Chiasson.

*2011 NHL Draft Pick Colin Jacobs easily had his best game of the young season by having a 3 point night in a 6-3 win over the Chilliwack Bruins. His Goal and two assists was his first multi point game of the season and was part of a huge night for the T-Birds where teammate Brandon Rouse scored a hat trick and Mitch Elliot had a goal and assist in the game as well.

*Johnnie Searfoss and Erik Higby each got their first career points at the College Level over the weekend. Searfoss scored in a big time 8-0 thrashing of Clarkson University while Higby had an assist on an Andrew Cherniwchan goal early in the 3rd period that forced OT. But later lost to Michigan Tech 4-3 when MTU scored 5 minutes into OT.

*Chicago Steel Defensemen Ian Young has been off to a hot start to the season. In his first 4 games, he's gotten himself three points, including goals in both games last weekend on Friday against the Indiana Ice and on Saturday against the USNTDP. His 3 points (2G 1A) have him among the Scoring Leaders among defensemen just 1 point back of Alexx Privitera (Muskegon) and Brandon Russo (Youngstown) who each have 4 points.

*Joe Puruill who was with the Springfield Jr. Blues when the season started has been released. He only played in 3 games this season while hardly making an impact and has dropped off in his scoring production. Last year in 47 games for the Jr. Blues, he scored 10 points (2G 8A).

*2008 NHL Draft Pick Matt Donovan is looking to impress Team USA for another shot at the WJC as he had a 2 goal night in a 5-3 win over the University of Vermont. After being named to Team USA and a World Junior Team, he's looking to continue to impress the NY Islanders Staff about maybe getting an ATO Signing with their AHL Affiliate in Connecticut with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers perhaps at the end of the season. That's assuming that Denver doesn't make another long run in the WCHA & NCAA Tournaments in the spring.

*Michael Hill has continued his great start to the season where he was an Honorable Mention in the South Division Player of the Week Voting where he fell short to Texas Tornado Defensemen Ralfs Freibergs who won the award for this week. He currently has 17 points (8G 9A) in 10 games which leads the team in scoring and is ranked 5th in the NAHL Scoring Chart behind players like Rock Einersen who leads with 20 points and Beau Walker of Corpus Christi with 18 points as we getting to the one month mark of the season. Still kind of baffaling why he decided not to go to the Waterloo Blackhawks (USHL) after being picked so high in the USHL Entry Draft back in the spring.


Click on the Name to see the profile of each player

Here's the Stats Update for this week.

WHL/NCAA

F: Colin Jacobs  (Seattle)              6 GP   2G  3A  5 PTS    +1  6 PIM

F: Chris Brown  (Michigan)           3 GP   0G  1A   1 PTS         0 PIM

F: Erik Higby (No. Michigan)        2 GP   0G  1A    1 PTS        8 PIM

D: CJ Ludwig (No. Michigan)        2 GP   0G   0A   0 PTS        0 PIM

F: Austin Smith (Colgate)               1 GP   1G   0A   1 PTS        0 PIM


F: Armand de Swart (Cornell)         Season Hasen't started yet

F: Locke Jillson  (Cornell)                Season Hasen't Started yet

D: Keir Ross  (Cornell)                    Season Hasen't Started yet

D: Matt Donovan (Denver)             2 GP   2G    0A    2 PTS      4 PIM

F: Johnnie Searfoss (Neb.-Omaha)     2 GP   1G   0A   1 PTS    0 PIM      

F: Chase Grant (Minn. State)        2 GP    0G    0A    0 PTS       0 PIM   


USHL

D: Ian Young  (Chicago)                4 GP     2 G    1 A    3 PTS     E   7 PIM

F: Colton Hargrove (Fargo)          4 GP     1 G    1 A    2 PTS     -1   17 PIM

F: Blake Coleman (Indiana)           3 GP     2 G   2 A     4 PTS     +2   6 PIM

D: Cole Martin  (Lincoln)               1 GP     0 G    1 A     1 PTS     -1    2 PIM

F: Josh Berge  (Lincoln)                  2 GP     0 G    1 A     1 PTS     E     0 PIM

F: Ryan Daugherty (Omaha)           3 GP     0 G    0 A     0 PTS     -1    6 PIM

D: Greg Johnson  (Sioux City)         3 GP     0 G    0 A     0 PTS     E     0 PIM

F: Mike Williams (Sioux City)          2 GP      0 G    0 A    0 PTS     -1    2 PIM

D: Seth Jones (USNTDP)                  2 GP      0 G    1 A    1 PTS     0     2 PIM


NAHL

G: Frederick Leisner (Aberdeen)     6 GP     2-4-0      4.50 GAA    .858 SV%

D: Tommy Rizzardo  (Bismarck)    11 GP       1 G    2 A     3 PTS     +3     29 PIM

F: Nicholas Miglio  (Bismarck)          7 GP       1 G    0 A     1 PTS      0       8 PIM

F: Derrek Schartz (Corpus Christi)    9 GP     1 G     1 A     2 PTS      -5     14 PIM

D: Kyle Hughes  (Corpus Christi)     11 GP      1 G     5 A     6 PTS     -4      33 PIM

F: Sean Hendrick  (Texas)                  2 GP       0 G     1 A     1 PTS     +1     1 PIM

F: Taylor Hendron (Texas)                 9 GP       2 G     2 A     4 PTS      +3     2 PIM

F: Marc Biggs  (Texas)                        9 GP       2 G     2 A     4 PTS      +5     0 PIM

F: Alex Boyer  (Texas)                        9 GP       2 G     2 A      4 PTS       +5    4 PIM

G: Jake Stafford  (Texas)                   6 GP        2-2-2      3.43 GAA    .865 SV%

D: Jacob Poe  (Topeka)                       10 GP     0 G     5 A      5 PTS       -1     14 PIM

F: Michael Hill  (Topeka)                     10 GP     8 G     9 A      17 PTS      E     16 PIM

D: Mason Miller  (Topeka)                   5 GP       0 G     0 A      0 PTS        +1    2 PIM

D: Cory Ramsay  (Topeka)                  10 GP      1 G     1 A      2 PTS        -1     10 PIM

F: Kyle Sharkley  (Topeka)                  3 GP        0 G     0 A      0 PTS         -1    2 PIM

F: Tyler Hope  (Wenatchee)                 8 GP        2 G     3 A      5 PTS         E     20 PIM   

10/7 Scoreboard: Canadian Jr. A, US Juniors & NCAA

With my website working back to normal after some problems for about the last week or so, it's time to get back to the scoreboard, and not a moment to soon. With practically all of the big time leagues in North America now getting going. I'm going to divide the scoreboard into several parts. During the week when most of the leagues are not as busy, i'm going to do combine the US Juniors, the Canadian Jr. A Leagues and the NCAA tonight and then have the NHL Scores from the opening night on the other.

When they are Southwest Teams involved, look for the scoreboard plus the game story from the game.

On weekends when most leagues are have full schedules, it will be broken up even more to give more room.


NCAA

Non-Conference

Ferris State 4  Alabama-Huntsville 1  (0-0, 1-1, 3-0)


Canadaian Jr. A

British Columbia Hockey League  (BCHL)

Surrey Eagles 1  Langley Chiefs 7  (0-2, 0-4, 1-1)


Alberta Junior Hockey League  (AJHL)

No Games last Night


Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL)

Flin Foln Bombers 2  Norte Dame Hounds 3  (1-3, 0-1, 0-0)


Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL)

Neepawa Natives 1  Portage Terriers 2  (SO)  (0-0, 0-0, 1-1, 0-0, 0-1)


US Juniors

North American Hockey League

Janesville Jets 4  Springfield Jr. Blues 1  (2-0, 1-1, 1-0) 

Dawson Creek Rage 1  Alaska Avalanche 2  (0-1, 1-0, 0-1)

Austin Smith Profile on Inside College Hockey

As the College Hockey Season is now just getting underway. Joe Gladziszewski of Inside College Hockey mostly takes a look at up-and-coming players for his Segment entitled College Hockey A-to-Z. But he takes a look at some of the superstars who are looking to make their way to the NHL as well.

Recently, here's his look at D/FW Native and Dallas Stars Prospect Austin Smith as he enters his Junior Year with an improving 4th Place Finish during the regular season, but unfortunately came up short in the Conference Tournament after losing in the Quarterfinals after earning a bye in the opening round.

Before last year started, I thought that he would probably need his entire time in the NCAA before he could have a shot of making his professional debut. But if he has another strong year, I think he could seriously have a shot of making his Pro debut this season with the Texas Stars (AHL) to show the Dallas Stars Org. that he is closer then ever before to making the National Hockey League and to be the first Texan to make the NHL.

Either way, expect another great year for the Raiders star forward to take over his team to become a strong leader for the Raiders this season.

Colgate Ice Hockey Website

Austin Smith Colgate Profile

Here's Joe Gladziszewski of Inside College Hockey

Key Stats: Smith led the Raiders in scoring as a sophomore with 41 points on 16 goals and 25 assists. Six of his goals came on the power play and three were game winners. He took just 10 minor penalties last season. That backed up a breakout freshman campaign in which he had 17 goals and 14 assists for 31 points. He hasn't missed a game in his career, suiting up 73 times for Colgate.

What he Does: Austin Smith isn't the type of guy you would likely find in this Inside College Hockey A-Z series because we generally try to id. emerging players, and it could strongly be argued that Smith is a proven Star in ECAC Hockey. He was recently voted to preseason All ECAC Hockey Teams by Coaches and the Media, and is a draft pick for his hometown Dallas Stars.

The Bigger Picture: Though he was a big producer for Colgate right from the start, it's Clarey his time to shine now that David Mclntyre has moved on. Smith is ready to take that challenge and will feature prominently for the Raiders. He won't be alone, as the likes of Brian Day, Francois Brisebois and Robbie Bourdon are also back for Colgate.

Austin Smith on the Upcoming Season: "I think we have a very good team and we're a lot deeper then people give us credit for. Our expectations are going to get in the top four of the league and a playoff bye and find a way to get into the NCAA Tournament. Whatever it is by getting a bid or winning the Conference."

3/27 Scoreboard & Playoff Series

Professional Scores

National Hockey League

Calgary Flames 0 Boston Bruins 5 (0-1, 0-2, 0-2)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021110

Philadelphia Flyers 1 Pittsburgh Penguins 4 (1-1, 0-1, 0-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021111

Tampa Bay Lighting 1 Buffalo Sabres 7 (0-3, 1-3, 0-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021112

NY Rangers 2 Toronto Maple Leafs 3 (OT) (2-0, 0-1, 0-1, 0-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021113

New Jersey Devils 4 Montreal Canadiens 2 (1-0, 2-2, 1-0)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021114

Florida Panthers 2 Ottawa Senators 3 (0-0, 1-2, 1-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021115

Atlanta Thrashers 4 Carolina Hurricanes 0 (0-0, 3-0, 1-0)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021116

NY Islanders 4 Columbus Blue Jackets 3 (OT) (2-0, 0-1, 1-2, 1-0)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021117

Detroit Red Wings 1 Nashville Predators 0 (SO) (0-0, 0-0, 0-0, 0-0, 1-0)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021118

Colorado Avalanche 2 Phoenix Coyotes 6 (1-1, 1-2, 0-3)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021119

Vancouver Canucks 2 San Jose Sharks 4 (1-0, 0-3, 1-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021120

Dallas Stars 4 Los Angeles Kings 1 (0-1, 3-0, 1-0)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021121

Dallas Game Summary: http://stars.nhl.com/club/recap.htm?id=2009021121


American Hockey League

Rochester Americans 7 Toronto Marlies 3 (3-1, 3-2, 1-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007117

Hamilton Bulldogs 4 Abbotsford Heat 0 (2-0, 2-0, 0-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007106

Texas Stars 5 Grand Rapids Griffins 4 (SO) (3-2, 1-2, 0-0, 0-0, 1-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007107

Texas Game Story: www.texasstarshockey.com/news/news/index.html?article_id=242

Bridgeport Sound Tigers 3 Hartford Wolfpack 4 (1-1, 2-2, 0-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007108

W-B/Scranton Penguins 2 Hershey Bears 4 (1-1, 1-2, 0-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007109

Adirondack Phantoms 3 Manchester Monarchs 4 (0-1, 2-2, 1-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007110

Springfield Falcons 1 Portland Pirates 2 (0-0, 0-0, 1-2)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007113

Worcester Sharks 2 Norfolk Admirals 0 (1-0, 1-0, 0-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007111

Albany River Rats 5 Syracuse Crunch 2 (2-1, 1-0, 2-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007116

Houston Aeros 1 Peoria Rivermen 4 (0-1, 0-1, 1-2)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007112

Houston Game Story: www.aeros.com/news/news/index.html?article_id=2556

Lake Erie Monsters 5 San Antonio Rampage 4 (2-2, 2-1, 1-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007115

San Antonio Game Story: www.sarampage.com/news/index.html?article_id=874

Chicago Wolves 3 Rockford Icehogs 0 (1-0, 1-0, 1-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007114


Central Hockey League Playoffs

Look for the Texas Brahmas VS. Odessa Jackalopes, the Allen Americans VS. Laredo Bucks. Also the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs VS. Colorado Eagles Series'.

Missouri Mavericks 1 Rapid City Rush 5 (0-0, 1-0, 4-1)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1248584

Rapid City Leads Series 1-0



Major Junior Playoffs

Western Hockey League

Calgary Hitmen 7 Moose Jaw Warriors 3 (2-0, 2-3, 3-0)
http://whl.ca/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1006959

Series Tied 3-3


Everett Silvertips 4 Kelowna Rockets 5 (1-1, 3-2, 0-2)
http://whl.ca/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1006957

Series Tied 3-3


Portland Winterhawks 4 Spokane Chiefs 3 (2-0, 1-0, 1-3)
http://whl.ca/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1006968

Portland Leads Series 3-2


Ontario Hockey League

No Games on Saturday Night.


Quebec Major Junior Hockey League

Cape Breton Screaming Eagles 0 Moncton Wildcats 4 (0-1, 0-2, 0-1)
www.lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/index.php?page=342374&id_partie=20903

Moncton Wins Series 4-1, the Moncton Wildcats will play the Rouyn-Nornda Huskies in the QMJHL Quarterfinals.


Quebec Major Junior Hockey League

Montreal De Junior 1 Gatineau Olympiques 4 (0-1, 1-0, 0-3)
http://lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/?page=342374&id_partie=20946

Series Tied 3-3, the Winner of this Series will either play the St. John Seadogs or the Drummondville Voltigeurs in the Quarterfinals. The Matchup depends on what happens on the Series between the Rimouski Oceanic and the Chicoutimi Sagueneens.


NCAA Tournament Scores

NCAA Midwest Regional Semifinals

Alabama-Huntsville 1 Miami of Ohio 2 (0-1, 0-1, 1-0)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20100327&vis=uah&home=mu&gender=m

Alabama-Huntsville VS. Miami of Ohio Game Summary:
www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/03/27/uah-mu.php


Michigan 5 Bemijdi State 1 (1-0, 1-0, 3-1)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20100327&vis=um&home=bsu&gender=m

Michigan VS. Bemijdi State Game Summary
www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/03/27/um-bsu.php


Mid West Regional Championship

Miami of Ohio VS. Michigan


NCAA Northeast Regional Semifinals

Alaska 1 Boston College 3 (0-1, 1-0, 0-2)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20100327&vis=uaf&home=bc&gender=m

Alaska VS. Boston College Game Story
www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/03/27/uaf-bc.php


Yale 3 North Dakota 2 (1-0, 2-0, 0-2)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20100327&vis=yu&home=und&gender=m

Yale VS. North Dakota Game Story
www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/03/27/yu-und.php


Northeast Regional Championship

Yale VS. Boston College


NCAA East Regional Championship

RIT 6 New Hampshire 2 (1-1, 3-0, 2-1)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20100327&vis=rit&home=unh&gender=m

RIT VS. New Hampshire Game Story:
www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/03/27/rit-unh.php

RIT Has advanced the NCAA Frozen Four in Detroit on April 8 & 10.


NCAA West Regional

St. Cloud State 3 Wisconsin 5 (1-3, 0-0, 2-2)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20100327&vis=scsu&home=uw&gender=m

St. Cloud State VS. Wisconsin Game Story
www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/03/27/scsu-uw.php

Wisconsin has advanced to the NCAA Frozen Four in Detroit on April 8 & 10.


U.S.A. Junior Scores

United States Hockey League

Sioux Falls Stampede 3 Indiana Ice 4 (OT) (0-1, 2-1, 1-1, 0-1)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049164

USNTDP 6 Youngstown Phantoms 2 (2-1, 1-1, 3-0)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049165

Chicago Steel 3 Des Moines Buccaneers 4 (1-2, 1-0, 1-2)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049159

Green Bay Gamblers 4 Fargo Force 3 (SO) (2-0, 0-1, 1-2, 0-0, 1-0)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049160

Tri-City Storm 4 Lincoln Stars 3 (0-0, 3-2, 1-1)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049161

Sioux City Musketeers 1 Omaha Lancers 2 (0-1, 1-1, 0-0)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049162

Cedar Rapids Roughriders 0 Waterloo Blackhawks 4 (0-2, 0-1, 0-1)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049163

Waterloo has clinched the Final Playoff Spot in the East Division. They will play the Green Bay Gamblers in the East Division Semifinals.


North American Hockey League

Traverse City North Stars 5 Alpena Ice Diggers 0 (2-0, 1-0, 2-0)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068601

Janesville Jets 0 Marquette Rangers 3 (0-1, 0-1, 0-1)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068605

The Marquette Rangers Clinch the North Division Title. Since both Marquette & Traverse City ended the Regular Season with 71 points, Marquette had more wins then Traverse City.

North Iowa Outlaws 2 Alexandria Blizzard 4 (0-3, 0-0, 2-1)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068600

Texas Tornado 2 St. Louis Bandits 5 (0-1, 1-4, 1-0)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068602

Albert Lea Thunder 3 Bismarck Bobcats 6 (0-2, 2-2, 1-2)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068603

Kenai River Brown Bears 4 Alaska Avalanche 7 (1-3, 3-1, 0-3)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068599

The Alaska Avlanche have clinched Home Ice for the 1st Round against Fairbanks.

Wenatchee Wild 6 Fairbanks Ice Dogs 1 (2-0, 4-1, 0-0)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068604

3/26 Scoreboard & Playoff Series Update

Here's a look at the scoreboard from last night as we had a light night in the NHL. In the AHL, the Worcester Sharks become the 4th team to clinch a Calder Cup Playoff spot while others like Texas as they starting to get closer to clinching playoff births of their own. For the Texas Stars, they also looking to get 1st Round Home Ice by holding off teams like the Milwaukee Admirals and the Rockford Icehogs in the West Division.

The Opening night of the Central Hockey League Conference Semifinals with the Road Teams taking the opening games with all 3 teams using third period comebacks. Most impressievly was the Texas Brahmas by scoring 5 goals in the 3rd period after being able to stay in the game in Odessa. Also Laredo were able to get a pair of goals to comeback in Allen. Look for CHL Game Summaries of the Texas Brahmas VS. Odessa Jackalopes & Laredo Bucks VS. Allen Americans Games in the Game Summaries.

More Teams clinched 2nd Round Spots in the Major Junior Playoffs. Teams like St. John, Plymouth & Quebec City are moving on the 2nd Round. One of the big shocks came in the WHL as the Chilliwack Bruins winning in Washington State and avoiding elinmation for at least one game.

The NCAA Tournament got underway last night with the University of Denver going down in the opening round. While a great game between St. Cloud State & Northern Michigan going to Double OT.

In the U.S.A. Juniors, the Waterloo Blackhawks clinched the 4th & final spot in the USHL East Division while the Sioux City Musketeers overtook the Tri-City Storm with just 3 games left in the season.

The NAHL is looking forward as the North Division will comedown to the Final Weekend between the Traverse City North Stars & the Marquette Rangers as both teams are still tied.

Professional Scores

National Hockey League

Ottawa Senators 4 Buffalo Sabres 2 (1-0, 2-1, 1-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021107

Minnesota Wild 2 Detroit Red Wings 6 (0-0, 1-4, 1-2)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021108

Anaheim Ducks 3 Edmonton Oilers 2 (1-0, 0-1, 2-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009021109


American Hockey League

Milwaukee Admirals 3 Grand Rapids Griffins 6 (1-0, 0-1, 2-5)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007095

Adirondack Phantoms 2 Hartford Wolfpack 3 (SO) (0-0, 2-1, 0-1, 0-0, 0-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007096

Worcester Sharks 2 Hershey Bears 7 (0-3, 1-1, 1-3)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007097

Despite the Loss, the comboantion of other results helped the Worcester Sharks clinch a playoffs spot.

Springfield Falcons 3 Lowell Devils 4 (SO) (0-0, 1-1, 2-2, 0-0, 0-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007099

Portland Pirates 2 Providence Bruins 0 (0-0, 0-0, 2-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007102

Binghamton Senators 4 Rochester Americans 3 (3-1, 1-2, 0-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007103

W-B/Scranton Penguins 3 Norfolk Admirals 1 (0-0, 1-0, 2-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007101

Bridgeport Sound Tigers 1 Manchester Monarchs 4 (0-3, 0-0, 1-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007100

Toronto Marlies 0 Syracuse Crunch 4 (0-1, 0-1, 0-2)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007105

Peoria Rivermen 3 Rockford Icehogs 4 (2-1, 0-3, 1-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007104

Texas Stars 4 Chicago Wolves 3 (SO) (0-0, 2-1, 1-2, 0-0, 1-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007094

Texas Gamestory: www.texasstarshockey.com/news/news/index.html?article_id=240

Lake Erie Monsters 2 Houston Aeros 3 (OT) (1-1, 1-0, 0-1, 0-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007098

Houston Gamestory: www.aeros.com/news/news/index.html?article_id=2554

Hamilton Bulldogs 2 Abbotsford Heat 1 (1-0, 0-1, 1-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007093


AHL Friday Wrap Up: http://theahl.com/fri-roundup-statement-win-for-bears-p141681


Central Hockey League Playoffs

Texas Brahmas 5 Odessa Jackalopes 2 (0-1, 0-0, 5-1)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1247602

Texas Leads Series 1-0


Laredo Bucks 4 Allen Americans 3 (2-1, 0-2, 2-0)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1245221

Laredo Leads Series 1-0


Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 4 Colorado Eagles 3 (OT) (0-1, 0-2, 3-0, 1-0)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1245214

Bossier-Shreveport Leads Series 1-0


Major Junior Playoffs

Western Hockey League

Medicine Hat Tigers 5 Kootenay Ice 2 (3-1, 0-1, 2-0)
http://whl.ca/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1006986

Medicine Hat Leads Series 3-2


Chilliwack Bruins 4 Tri-City Americans 3 (OT) (1-2, 0-1, 2-0, 1-0)
http://whl.ca/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1006937

Tri-City Leads Series 3-2


Portland Winterhawks 4 Spokane Chiefs 2 (2-0, 1-1, 1-1)
http://whl.ca/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1006966

Series Tied 2-2


Kelowna Rockets 0 Everett Silvertips 4 (0-1, 0-2, 0-1)
http://whl.ca/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1006954

Everett Leads Series 3-2


Ontario Hockey League

Sault St. Marie Greyhounds 2 Plymouth Whalers 6 (1-1, 0-2, 1-3)
www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=16661

Plymouth Wins Series 4-1


Brampton Battalion 4 Kingston Frontenacs 3 (OT) (1-0, 1-1, 1-2, 1-0)
www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=16702

Brampton Leads Series 3-2


Guelph Storm 2 London Knights 6 (1-3, 1-1, 0-2)
www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=16708

London Wins Series 4-1


Saginaw Spirit 4 Kitchener Rangers 3 (0-0, 3-0, 1-3)
www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=16711

Kitchener Leads Series 3-2


Quebec Major Junior Hockey League

Acadie-Bathurst Titans 5 Quebec City Ramparts 6 (3-2, 1-1, 1-3)
www.lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/index.php?page=342374&id_partie=20924

Quebec City Wins Series 4-1


Shawinigan Cataractes 3 Victoriaville Tigers 4 (1-1, 0-2, 2-1)
www.lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/index.php?page=342374&id_partie=20917

Victoriaville Leads Series 3-2


P.E.I. Rockets 2 St. John Seadogs 7 (0-2, 1-2, 1-3)
www.lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/index.php?page=342374&id_partie=20896

St. John Wins Series 4-1


Chicoutimi Sagueneens 6 Rimouski Oceanic 5 (OT) (3-3, 1-2, 1-0, 1-0)
www.lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/index.php?page=342374&id_partie=20931

Rimouski Leads Series 3-2


Val-dor Fourers 4 Rouyn-Nornda Huskies 9 (2-2, 2-3, 0-4)
www.lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/index.php?page=342374&id_partie=20938

Rouyn-Nornda Leads Series 3-2


Gatineau Olympiques 3 Montreal De Junior 2 (1-0, 2-2, 0-0)
www.lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/index.php?page=342374&id_partie=20945

Montreal Leads Series 3-2


NCAA Tournament


East Regional Semifinals (Albany, NY)

New Hampshire 6 Cornell 2 (0-1, 2-0, 4-1)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20100326&vis=unh&home=cor&gender=m


New Hampshire VS. Cornell Game Story:
www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/03/26/unh-cor.php


RIT 2 Denver 1 (1-0, 0-0, 1-1)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20100326&vis=rit&home=du&gender=m

RIT VS. Denver Game Story:
www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/03/26/rit-du.php


East Regional Final

#3 New Hampshire VS. #4 RIT


West Regional Semifinals (St. Paul, Minnesota)

Northern Michigan 3 St. Cloud State 4 (2OT) (1-2, 1-1, 1-0, 0-0, 0-1)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20100326&vis=nmu&home=scsu&gender=m

Northern Michigan VS. St. Cloud State Game Story:
www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/03/26/nmu-scsu.php


Vermont 2 Wisconsin 3 (2-1, 0-2, 0-0)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20100326&vis=uvm&home=uw&gender=m

Vermont VS. Wisconsin Game Story:
www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/03/26/uvm-uw.php


West Regional Final

#1 Wisconsin VS. #2 St. Cloud State


U.S.A. Junior Scores

United States Hockey League

Youngstown Phantoms 3 USNTDP 2 (0-1, 1-0, 2-1)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049156

Sioux Falls Stampede 5 Indiana Ice 1 (1-1, 2-0, 2-0)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049158

Chicago Steel 1 Sioux City Musketeers 2 (1-1, 0-0, 0-1)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049151

The Sioux City Musketeers takeover 4th Place from the Tri-City Storm for the final playoff spot in the United States Hockey League.

Waterloo Blackhawks 4 Des Moines Buccaneers 0 (1-0, 2-0, 1-0)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049153

The Waterloo Blackhawks have Clinched the Final Playoff Spot in the East Division.

Tri-City Storm 2 Omaha Lancers 3 (1-1, 1-1, 0-1)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049155

Lincoln Stars 0 Cedar Rapids Roughriders 3 (0-1, 0-2, 0-0)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049157

Green Bay Gamblers 1 Fargo Force 3 (0-0, 1-1, 0-2)
http://ushl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1049154

Here's a look at what the current USHL Playoff Matchups would look like right now. 7 of the 8 playoff teams are confirmed and the Regular Season ends on April 3.

East Division

#1 Green Bay Gamblers VS. #4 Waterloo Blackhawks

#2 Cedar Rapids Roughriders VS. #3 Indiana Ice


West Division

#1 Omaha Lancers VS. #4 Sioux City Musketeers

#2 Fargo Force VS. #3 Sioux Falls Stampede


North American Hockey League

Alpena Ice Diggers 3 Traverse City North Stars 10 (0-3, 0-4, 3-3)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068595

Janesville Jets 0 Marquette Rangers 3 (0-1, 0-1, 0-1)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068598

North Iowa Outlaws 3 Alexandria Blizzard 5 (0-3, 1-1, 2-1)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068593

Texas Tornado 2 St. Louis Bandits 7 (1-0, 0-2, 1-5)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068594

Albert Lea Thunder 1 Bismarck Bobcats 4 (0-1, 1-1, 0-2)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068596

Kenai River Brown Bears 3 Alaska Avalanche 7 (2-4, 0-1, 1-2)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068592

Wenatchee Wild 4 Fairbanks Icedogs 1 (3-0, 0-1, 1-0)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1068597

The Traverse City North Stars & Marquette Rangers are tied for the North Division Lead with both teams playing their Regular Season Finale tonight. Trvarse City is in Alpena, while the Marquette Rangers host the Janesville Jets.

Other then that, 6 of the 8 Divisional Semifinal Series are pretty much set as the playoffs get underway next week.

North Division

#1 Marquette/Traverse City VS. #4 Motor City Metal Jackets

#2 Marquette/Traverse City VS. #3 Janesville Jets


Central Division

#1 Bismarck Bobcats VS. #4 Albert Lea Thunder

#2 Owatonna Express VS. #3 Alexandria Blizzard


South Division

#1 Topeka Roadrunners VS. #4 Springfield Jr. Blues

#2 St. Louis Bandits VS. #3 Texas Tornado


West Division

#1 Wenatchee Wild VS. #4 Kenai River Brown Bears

#2 Alaska Avalanche VS. #3 Fairbanks Icedogs