IIHF U18 World Championship Update

With the Playoffs and Relegation Rounds getting underway tomorrow. Here's a look at how the rest of the Group Stage went as I was out of town this weekend and unable for the most part to keep an update on the tournament.

For more info on this event and other International Hockey News, log on to www.iihf.com

There's tons of pictures from this event. You can either go through the regular, or you can select from ind. teams & games from this year's U18 World Championship.

www.iihf.com/channels0910/wm18/pictures.html

Sweden & Finland Semifinal Bound

With the Northern European Powers winning the groups. Their looking to bring home the first U18 Gold Medal to Scandinavia for the first time since 2000 when the Finns won back-to-back Gold's in 1999 and 2000 when the IIHF First started this tournament. Sweden has never won this event in this history and haven't medaled since 2007 when they won Bronze when the Tournament in Finland.

Finland sweeped Group B with a 7-2 win over Latvia, 5-2 win over Slovakia, a huge 5-4 win over Russia that basically decided the Group and marked the return to possible greatness for the Finnish Junior Program after taking a bit of a dip the last few years, including being in the relegation round when they hosted the tournament back in 2007.

To finish the Group Stage, all they needed was a point to claim Group A and a 4-3 OT Win over the Czech Republic did that. The Finns finished with an impressive 11 out of a possible 12 points and are looking dangerous to win their first World Junior Gold Medal since they won the 2000 U18 World Championship.

Sweden had a similar run where a comeback win against the USA helped them go to a perfect Group Stage with a big 7-0 win against Belarus where a huge 2nd period with 5 goals blew the game wide open. The Swedes continued to score big time with a 10-2 win over Switzerland where 4 goals in both the 2nd & 3rd period ended the Swiss Hopes of another upset after the Swiss upset Canada on opening day.

Finally against Canada, Sweden did the unthinkable as in addition to winning the group, they sent Canada down the relegation round after the Canadians who have a repetition of underachieving in this event, beat them 5-4 despite a 4 goal 3rd period by Canada to make the end of the game interesting.

Can Sweden finally win a major Junior Event after several close calls and a big commitment to improve the Swedish Junior Program in both the League and National Team Programs? This may be their best shot yet.

Finland will be facing the USA VS. Czech Republic Winner while Sweden will face the Russia VS. Switzerland Winner in the Quarterfinals. Can the Swiss pull off another big win in the U18's like they did against Russia in the WJC earlier in the season?


USA Comes back Strong, Canada down to the Relegation Round

After the Americans opening day loss to Sweden, the Americans came back with 3 straight wins where they outscored the opposition 17-2 with big wins over Switzerland, Belarus & and a strong shutout win over Canada for them to finish 2nd in the Group Round and are looking dangerous to beat the Czech's and have a shot of successfully defending the U18 World Championship.

The Americans are looking for a strong performance in the Quarterfinals against the Czech Republic that they beat arch Rival Slovakia 4-3 and surviving a comeback attempt against Latvia 5-4. The Czechs have shown that they can be dangerous this year as they were down 2-1 midway through the 3rd period before Russia pulled away late. Also, losing in a SO to Group Winners Finland 4-3. So it may not be as easy as in recent years for the Americans.

Last year the Americans took down the Czechs 6-2 where a 4 goal 2nd period ended the Czech Hopes. So they have done well against the Czech Republic in recent years. A win tomorrow and it would be a game against Finland in Wednesday's Semifinals which should be a great showdown assuming the Americans can beat the Czechs tomorrow.

Canada on the otherhand has been bad in this tournament. Despite their history of not doing well in this event. Being in the relegation round is no excuse for the Canadians as getting upset 3-1 by Switzerland led to a huge downfall with them getting thumped by the USA 5-0 and being down 4-0 going into the 2nd intermission against Sweden. Even through a 4 goal comeback in the 3rd made things interesting, it wasn't enough to get them the win.

It would be a huge shock to see the Canadians go down to Division 1 at any tournament, but at least an 11-3 win over Belarus has them going into the Relegation Round against Latvia and Slovakia with a win and an +8 Goal Differently. Expect them to survive with ease, but you have got to think that Hockey Canada is not happy with this showing.

Canada will be playing Slovakia and Latvia in the Relegation Round as the Canadians will look to crush the Slovaks and Latvians as both teams will be looking to survive and be back for next year's World U18 Championship.

Here's links to Game Stories involving Team USA from the USA Hockey Website.

Game 1: USA VS. Sweden: www.usahockey.com/Template_Usahockey.aspx?NAV=TU_04_02_04&id=285548

Game 2: USA VS. Switzerland: www.usahockey.com/Template_Usahockey.aspx?NAV=TU_04_02_04&id=285618

Game 3: USA VS. Canada: www.usahockey.com/Template_Usahockey.aspx?NAV=TU_04_02_04&id=285706

Game 4: USA VS. Belarus: www.usahockey.com/Template_Usahockey.aspx?NAV=TU_04_02_04&id=285778


Battle for Survival between Slovakia, Latvia and Belarus

With Canada in the Relegation Round, expect the battle for survival to be a 3 horse race between Slovakia, Latvia and Belarus. The Slovaks find themselves in the best position as they have a win over Latvia and a win over Belarus who's basically been a no show exception for the game against Switzerland where they lost 3-2.

Latvia may be in the most trouble, despite being able to play well against the Czech Republic, they will have to face Canada on Wednesday. Then face Belarus to end the Relegation Round on Thursday Night, but by then, if Slovakia and Canada win their games. It would be basically for pride and to determine 9th and 10th so the game would mean nothing at all towards who would stay up and who would fall to Division 1 for 2011.

The Division 1 Tournaments just wrapped up over the weekend and the two teams that will be getting promoted will be Norway & Germany for next season.

Here's a look at the Final Group Stage Standings. Also the Playoff & Relegation Round Matchups.

Group Stage Standings

Group A

1. Sweden 4-0-0-0 12 PTS 26-8

2. U.S.A. 3-0-0-1 9 PTS 19-6

3. Switzerland 2-0-0-2 6 PTS 9-18

4. Canada 1-0-0-3 3 PTS 16-16

5. Belarus 0-0-0-4 0 PTS 6-28


Group B

1. Finland 3-1-0-0 11 PTS 21-11

2. Russia 3-0-0-1 9 PTS 20-7

3. Czech Rep. 2-0-1-1 7 PTS 13-15

4. Slovakia 1-0-0-3 3 PTS 10-15

5. Latvia 0-0-0-4 0 PTS 9-25


Relegation Round Standings

1. Canada 1-0-0-0 3 PTS 11-3

2. Slovakia 1-0-0-0 3 PTS 4-3

3. Latvia 0-0-0-1 0 PTS 3-4

4. Belarus 0-0-0-1 0 PTS 3-11


Relegation Round Schedule

4/15: Belarus 3 Canada 11 (1-4, 2-2, 0-5)

4/17: Slovakia 4 Latvia 3 (1-0, 2-2, 1-1)

4/20: Slovakia VS. Belarus

4/21: Canada VS. Latvia

4/22: Canada VS. Slovakia

4/22: Latvia VS. Belarus



Playoff Rounds

Quarterfinals (Tuesday)

U.S.A. VS. Czech Republic

Russia VS. Switzerland


Semifinals (Wednesday)

Finland VS. USA/Czech Rep. Winner

Sweden VS. Russia/Switzerland Winner


5th Place Game (Thursday)

Quarterfinal Losers


Medal Round (Friday)

Bronze Medal

Semifinal Losers


Gold Medal

Semifinal Winners

IIHF U18WC Day 2: USA Comesback, Sweden & Russia Dominite

Day 2 saw a bit less drama but the top seeds were able to comeback. Especially the U.S.A. where just a day after Sweden beat them 4-2, the Americans were to fight off an early Swiss Surge, but a two goal performance by Austin Czarik helped the Americans find their grove to beat Switzerland 5-1 to even up their group stage record at 1-1 through 2 games.

Sweden & Russia continued their great starts with 7-0 & 9-0 wins over the big underdogs in Belarus & Latvia while the Czech Republic had to fight off a comeback attempt against arch rival Slovakia to win the Czechs first game of the tournament 4-3 over Slovakia, that win could be huge as many people saw that as the grudge match for 3rd place in Group A.

Tomorrow's matchup's will see some interesting matchup's as we could see which Swiss Team could emerge as the Swiss will play the Swedes. Slovakia will look to comeback against Finland while Canada and the Czech Republic will look to get over Belarus & Latvia as well.

From Jenny Wiedeke of the International Ice Hockey Federation: http://www.iihf.com/

Group A in Bobruisk

Sweden 7 Belarus 0 (0-0, 5-0, 2-0)

Sweden VS. Belarus Photos: www.iihf.com/channels0910/wm18/pictures/page/0/game/SWE%20-%20BLR.html

Thanks to a stellar 5 goal second period, Sweden stayed unbeaten at this year's U18 World Championship with a 7-0 thumping of host Belarus.

It was the opening game for the host nation, and the fans in Bobruisk turned out in droves, nearly selling out the modern arena. And while the fans may have been able to help stall the Swedish attack through a scoreless first period, there was little they, or the Belarusian team, could do the Swedes sparked to life in the 2nd period.

Sweden made up for the sluggish start with a lighting fast pair of goals to open the 2nd. Ludvig Rensfeldt scored both goals, with the first coming just 56 seconds into the period and the 2nd trailing three minutes later. The goal took a little spirit out of the near sell-out crowd.

Another quick duo of goals mid-period took Sweden out to a 4-0 lead. Both goals came on the power play as Sweden Capitalized on both extra-man chances of the period. Adam Larsson scored the 3-0 goal at 31:08 mark of the 2nd period, and it was followed by Max Friberg's marker two minutes later. Johan Larsson put in the 5-0 goal just moments later to make it a 5-0 lead Sweden Lead, effectively dashing any hopes that Belarus had for an opening game upset.

Johan Larsson put in his 2nd goal of the opening shift of the third period, while Erik Thorell made it 7-0 4 minutes later. Sweden out-shot Belarus 46-8.

Sweden is now in poll position to take first place in the group, although it still has two more preliminary round games. The first of those contests is on Friday against Switzerland. Belarus will look for its first win tomorrow against winless Canada.


Switzerland 1 U.S.A. 5 (1-1, 0-2, 0-2)

Switzerland VS. U.S.A. Photos: www.iihf.com/channels0910/wm18/pictures/page/0/game/SUI%20-%20USA.html

It was harder then they would have liked, but in the end the U.S. was able to earn its first win at this years World U18 Championship with a 5-1 win against Switzerland.

Austin Czarik was the man of the hour for the Americans. He scored the first two goals which came a critical point when the U.S. needed momentum and stability.

The Americans were whistled for five minors in the first period and spent most of the period killing the Swiss Power Play. Despite having 10 minutes with the extra man, Switzerland scored once in the stanza - an-even-strength goal from Gregory Hofmann. The lead stood for only 27 seconds as Czarnik put in the equalizer, one of the few bright spots for the Americans in the period.

Czarnik struck again 4:01 into the 2nd to give the U.S.A. its first lead of the game. The goal settled the Americans down and got them into their game plan as they took only one penalty the entire period. Bill Arnold put in a late bonus goal in the last 15 seconds to give the Americans some breathing room at the intermission.

The U.S. Continued to steadily improve and by the end of the game were easily able to put the Swiss away with two 3rd period goals. Adam Clendening and Jason Zucker each got their first goals of the tournament to pull the Americans through to the 5-1 win.

Both teams stand with a 1-1 record after the first two game days and the day off tomorrow. On Friday, the U.S. will take on Canada, while Switzerland has Sweden.


Group B in Minsk

Czech Republic 4 Slovakia 3 (1-0, 2-0, 1-3)

Czech Republic VS. Slovakia Photos: www.iihf.com/channels0910/wm18/pictures/page/0/game/CZE%20-%20SVK.html

The Czech Republic and Slovakia finished neck-and-neck at last year's World U18 Championship in 6th and 7th place, but today, the Czech's were the superior team with a 4-3 win against the Slovaks.

The Closeness of the score was deceiving as the Czechs had the game well in hand through most of the 60 minutes until the Slovaks rallied late in the game. But Slovakia really didn't threaten for the win, with the 4-3 goal coming only with 5 seconds left in the game.

Slovakia lived dangerously the entire first period, spending much of the time down a man and defending in the own zone. The Penalty trouble finally caught up with them in the final 14 seconds of the period when Michal Vachovec put in a two man advantage goal to give the Czechs the slim 1-0 lead.

The Czech Republic's Petr Zamorsky picked right up where his team left off, scoring the 2-0 goal just 1:37 into the 2nd period. Martin Fyk put in the 3-0 goal before the midway mark of the game.

The Slovaks struggled after falling behind, but created a small spark of hope late in the 3rd period when Marek Tvrdon put in a quirky, odd bouncing goal just as a two man advantage expired. A pair of Dominik's exchanged goals in the waning minutes - Dominik Uher for the Czech's and Dominik Simcak for the Slovaks - to make it a 4-2 affair.

The Slovaks pulled off goaltending Dominik Riecicky in favor of the attacker in the last minute and were last buoyed by a Czech Penalty. The extra two men allowed Simcak to put in the 4-3 goal with five seconds left in regulation, but despite the excitement it gave the crowd, the goal was merely academic as the last 5 seconds ticked off the clock.

Slovakia will take on Finland in tomorrow's game in Minsk and the Czechs have the day off.


Latvia 0 Russia 9 (0-2, 0-4, 0-3)

Latvia VS. Russia Photos: www.iihf.com/channels0910/wm18/pictures/page/0/game/LAT%20-%20RUS.html

Russia stayed unbeaten, and virtually unchallenged, at this year's U18 World Championship with an easy 9-0 win over Latvia. Russia has two wins in two games, while the Latvians are win-less in their two outings.

Russia's first power-play was representative of the entire game. They scored just 25 seconds into their first extra man chance, facing little resistance. Nikita Nesterov scored the opening tally on the rebound. Less then 3 minutes later Vladislav Namestnikov doubled the lead with his 2nd goal of the championship. After taking another pair of late-period penalties, Latvia was lucky to escape with just a 2-0 deficit at the end of the stanza as Russia swarmed the offensive zone.

The Latvian luck ran out in the 2nd period as the Russians poured in 4 unanswered goals. Namestnikov put in another two goals and an assist in the flurry to complete the hat trick. His 3rd goal 5:51 into the period promoted Latvia to pull goaltender Vadims Miscuks in favor of Kristers Gudlevskis.

The Change did little to help the Latvian curse as Russia put in another three goals in the 3rd period, cruising to the shutout win. Evgeni Kunetsov scored twice in the 3rd period, and closed the game with a pair of goals and an assist. Andrei Vasilveski earned the shutout bragging rights in the net.

Both teams are idle tomorrow. Unbeaten Russia has a big game against Finland on Friday that could be the key to taking first place. Meanwhile, Latvia will also resume play on Friday against the Czech Republic-a win is critical for the Latvians if they want to avoid the relegation round.


Day 3 Schedule, 4/15

Group A

Belarus VS. Canada


Group B

Slovakia VS. Finland


Group Standings after Day 2

Group A

1. Sweden 2-0-0-0 6 PTS 11-2

2. U.S.A. 1-0-0-1 3 PTS 7-5

3. Switzerland 1-0-0-1 3 PTS 4-6

4. Canada 0-0-0-1 0 PTS 1-3

5. Belarus 0-0-0-1 0 PTS 0-7


Group B

1. Russia 2-0-0-0 6 PTS 13-1

2. Finland 1-0-0-0 3 PTS 7-2

3. Czech Rep. 1-0-0-1 3 PTS 5-7

4. Slovakia 0-0-0-1 0 PTS 3-4

5. Latvia 0-0-0-2 0 PTS 2-16

2010 Team USA U18 World Championship Roster

The roster for Team U.S.A. for this year's IIHF World Championship was revelled back on March 31 as the Americans are looking to defend their title that they won in Fargo, N.D. and Morehead, Minnesota last year. This season's World U18 Championship will be taking place in Minsk and Bobruisk in Belarus from April 13-23. Since the U18 World Championship was started by the IIHF in 1999, the Americans have won this tournament 4 times throughout the event's history.

All the games between the local time in Belarus and the Central Time Zone is 8 hours so it may be a bit difficult to cover some of the games, especially when they play early in the day. Also no Southwest Based players have made the roster for this year's tournament, not even Collin Jacobs of the Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL) who's from Coppell, Texas made it.

My Analysis: Despite the weak season the USNTDP had during the United States Hockey League Regular Season. USA Hockey has for the most part gone with a roster that's heavy on talent from the USNTDP during the entire history of this event since its creation back in 1999. The results speak for themselves as they have gold 4 times in this event's history and has walked out with a medal in 7 of the last 8 years.

For the goaltenders, look for Jack Campbell has a ton of international experience including winning the World Junior Championship earlier this season and last year's U18 World Championship as a backup by playing a couple of games as well.

Defense wise they going with size with 5 of the 7 defense being at 195 pounds or more and a couple of players that are expected to be great puck mover including Adam Clending who had 17 points and a +16, so he's expected to help set up of the top forwards like Matthew Nieto and Austin Czarnik who lead the team this season with 29 and 28 points, even though they played just 24 and 26 games during the season. Keep in mind that the U17 & U18 NTDP's play half of the schedule which is a part of the USHL Regular Season.

One forward that's expected to bring the hits is Matthew Rust who's one of the more physical forwards and can make some of the faster teams like Russia and Finland a hard time of opposing defense's to make a run on the team.

Overall, it's going to be much tougher this year with Russia looking for revenge after the U.S.A. ran away with the Final in the 3rd period. Also with teams like Belarus & Latvia looking to impress and avoid relegation, they will be playing their heart's out early on to get in a spot to keep their spot and to play well on home ice.

The Americans will be in the tougher group to start out the tournament as the Americans will play Canada who almost knocked out the Americans in the Semifinals last year. Also the Swedes are looking to get back it in after finishing 5th last year. Rounding out the Group is Switzerland and Tournament Host Belarus.

I expect the Americans to win a Medal again, but with the Americans winning gold 3 times in recent years, the opposition will be eager to knock them off. I don't have the feeling that the Americans will defend the Gold again this year. I think a team like Canada or Russia will edge them out this year.

Group B will be headed by Russia and Finland as the Silver & Bronze Medalist from last year. Joining them will be the Czech Republic and Slovakia who will be looking to avoid the relegation Round. Rounding them out will be Latvia who fought off a tough challenge from Austria and Denmark to win promotion last year.


Here's a look at the roster and schedule plus the team press release from USA Hockey.

From the USA Hockey Website: http://www.usahockey.com/

From Ann Arbor, Michigan: USA Hockey today announced the 22 man roster for its 2010 U.S. Men's National U18 Team that will compete at the 2010 International Ice Hockey Federation World Men's U18 Championship from April 13-23 in Minsk and Bobruisk, Belarus.

Highlighting the roster are five returnees from the National Under 18 Team that captured Gold at the 2009 IIHF World Men's U18 World Championship in Fargo, N.D. and Moorhead. Minn. Goaltender Jack Campbell (Port Huron, Michigan), who was named to the Media All Star Team at last year's event, will return between the pipes. Defensemen Adam Clendening (Niagara Falls, NY) and Jon Merrill (Brighton, Michigan) and forwards Matthew Nieto (Long Beach, California) and Jason Zucker (Las Vegas, Nevada) will also be competing in their 2nd IIHF World Men's U-18 Championship.

In addition, Campbell and Zucker were also part of the U.S. National Junior Team that won the Gold Medal at the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championships in Saskatoon and Regina in Saskatchewan in January.

Team U.S.A. will carry seven defensemen at the 2010 IIHF World Men's U18 Championship including clendening, Justin Faulk (South St. Paul, Minnesota), Derek Forbort (Duluth, Minnesota) Stephen Jones (Wampum, Pennsylvania), Merrill, Frankie Simonelli (Bensenville, Illinois) and Jarred Tinordi (Millersville, Maryland).

Nieto and Zucker highlighted the group of 13 forwards, which also included Bill Arnold (Needham, Mass.) Chase Bailey (Fullerton, California) Tyler Biggs (Cincinnati, Ohio) Connor Brickly (Everett, Mass.) Austin Czarnik (Washington, Michigan) Rocco Grimaldi (Rossmoor, California) Luke Moffatt (Paradise Valley, Arizona), Bryan Rust (Bloomfield Hills, Michigan) Brandon Saad (Gibsonia, PA), Nick Shore (Denver, Colorado) and Austin Watson (Ann Arbor, Michigan).

Team USA will be backstopped by goaltenders Campbell and Andy Iiles (Ithaca, NY).

The U.S.A. Men's National U18 Team will open the tournament play against the Sweden on April 13 at Bobruisk Arena at 7:00 PM Local Time (11 AM CDT). Team U.S.A. Full Schedule can be found below.


Team U.S.A. Notes: The U.S.A. Men's National U18 Team will be lead by head coach Kurt Kleinendorst, who will be participating in his first IIHF World Men's U18 Championship. John Wroblewski, Tam Taylor, Joe Exter and Cole Bassett will serve as assistant coaches for Team U.S.A. Twenty of the 22 players on Team U.S.A.'s roster come from USA Hockey's National Team Developmental Program based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Connor Brickley plays for the Des Moines Buccaneers of the United States Hockey League, while Austin Waston plays for the Peterborough Petes (OHL). The Roster includes 20 players born in 1992 and two from the 1993 birth year. Forward Tyler Briggs, born April 30, 1993 is the U.S.A.'s youngest player while goaltender Jack Campbell, born Jan. 9, 1992 is the oldest. Biggs and Rocco Grimaldi were part of the U.S.A National U-17 Team that captured the 2010 U-17 World Hockey Challenge title in Timmins, Ontario, in January. The United States captured medals at a record 6 straight IIHF Men's U18 World Championship (Gold in 2005, 2006, 2009 Silver in 2004 and 2007 Bronze in 2008). Additionally, no other country has more gold medals then Team U.S.A. since the IIHF World Men's U-18 World Championship was created in 1999. In addition to the United States, the tournament includes Tournament Host Belarus, Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, Latvia, Russia, Slovakia, Switzerland, Sweden and Switzerland. Team U.S.A. will play two pre-tournament games against Belarus and Slovakia in Bobruisk and Soligorsk, Belarus.


Here's a look at the Tournament Groups and Team U.S.A. Pre Tournament and Group Stage Schedule.

Group A in Bobruinsk: U.S.A., Canada, Sweden, Switzerland, Belarus

Group B in Minsk: Russia, Finland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Latvia


Team U.S.A. Pre-Tournament and Group Stage Schedule (All Game Times are Local Time and CDT)

4/8: VS. Belarus 6:00 PM/10:00 AM @ Soligorsk*

4/10: VS. Slovakia 5:00 PM/9:00 AM @ Bobruisk*

4/13: VS. Sweden 7:00 PM/11:00 AM @ Bobruisk

4/14: VS. Switzerland 3:30 PM/7:30 AM @ Bobruisk

4/16: VS. Canada 7:00 PM/11:00 AM @ Bobruisk

4/18: VS. Belarus 7:00 PM/11:00 AM @ Bobruisk


*Pre Tournament Games


Team U.S.A. Roster

Goalies

1. Jack Campbell 6'2" 185 1/9/92 Port Huron, Michigan USNTDP U18

29. Andy Iles 5'8" 179 1/30/92 Ithaca, N.Y. USNTDP U18


Defensemen

5. Adam Clendening 5'11" 190 10/26/92 Niagara Falls, N.Y. USNTDP U18

27. Justin Faulk 5'11" 193 3/20/92 South St. Paul, Minn. USNTDP U18

3. Derek Forbot 6'4" 195 3/4/92 Duluth, Minn. USNTDP U18

28. Stephen Johns 6'3" 215 4/18/92 Wampum, PA. USNTDP U18

15. John Merill 6'3" 200 2/3/92 Brighton, Michigan USNTDP U18

17. Frankie Simonelli 5'10" 187 10/29/92 Bensenville, Ill. USNTDP U18

24. Jarred Tinordi 6'5" 202 2/20/92 Millersville, MD USNTDP U18


Forwards

10. Bill Arnold 5'11" 217 5/13/92 Needham, Mass. USNTDP U18

13. Chase Balisey 5'10" 170 2/2/92 Fullerton, Calif. USNTDP U18

4. Tyler Biggs 6'2" 202 4/30/93 Cincinnati, Ohio USNTDP U17

20. Connor Brickley 6'2" 195 2/25/92 Everett, Mass. Des Moines, Buccaneers (USHL)

18. Austin Czarnik 5'7" 155 12/12/92 Washingon, Mich. USNTDP U18

21. Rocco Grimaldi 5'6" 157 2/8/92 Rossmoor, Calif. USNTDP U17

7. Luke Moffatt 6'0" 179 6/11/92 Paradise Valley, Ariz. USNTDP U18

19. Matthew Nieto 5'11" 191 11/5/92 Long Beach, Calif. USNTDP U18

12. Bryan Rust 5'11" 191 5/11/92 Bloomfield Hills, Mich. USNTDP U18

22. Brandon Saad 6'1" 196 10/27/92 Gibsonia, PA. USNTDP U18

23. Nick Shore 6'0" 186 9/26/92 Denver, Colo. USNTDP U18

14. Austin Watson 6'3" 171 1/13/92 Ann Arbor, Mich. Peterborough Pets (OHL)

16. Jason Zucker 5'10" 168 1/16/92 Las Vegas, Nev. USNTDP U18

Reamining 2009/2010 International Events

With the 2010 Winter Olympic Games now over with, the U.S.A. is looking to continue it's momentum where the Americans have won medals in nearly every major tournament its entered in this season. It started back in November where the Americans won the World Junior A Challenge in Prince Edward Island.

Then the Americans had a gold rush just after the New Years Holiday with winning both the U17 World Challenge in the Central Ontario City of Timmins. Then a couple of days, it was ending the Canadian Domination of the World Junior Championship in Saskatoon Saskatchewan by winning only the nations 2nd ever World Junior Championship Gold Medal as the Americans look ahead to hosting the WJC in New York State next season.

As for the rest of this season, pretty much all of the non IIHF Events are done with for the year. Most of the main attention will come into play as we have 3 Major IIHF Events left this season.

Starting with the World Junior Women's Championship where the U.S.A. has won both of the first 2 Championships in Calgary, Alberta and Fussen, Germany in the tournaments first 2 years.

As you would expect for most Women's Events, Canada will be the main challenger, but they has been some surprises as the Czech Republic has been able to reach the Bronze Medal Game in the events first 2 years in the tournaments short history (Bronze in 2008, 4th Place in 2009). Which is a good sign for the Women's Game as the Czech National Women's Team is in the WWC Division 2 Level right now.

Also, a bit of a surprise of when Switzerland was relegated to this years Division 1 Tournament. They have been seen as the main challenger in Europe to Sweden and Finland in some Women's Events in recent years.

For the first time, the U.S.A. is going to host the World Junior Women's Championship in Chicago this season in late March and early April. Usually this event is held in February, but was pushed back due to the Winter Olympics.

For the U18 World Championship, the U.S.A. is the defending champions here as a dominating game over Russia delivered the U18 World Title as the Americans look to defend the title which will be in Belarus this season.

After finishing 2nd in the Group Stage where Group B ended in a 3 way tie between Russia, the U.S.A. and Finland. The Americans crushed the Czech Republic in the Quarterfinals and held off Canada in the Semifinals after trailing 1-0 at the 2nd intermission to win 2-1 in the 3rd period. Then when the Final came against Russia, where the game was never in doubt where the Americans won 5-0.

This year the U18 World Championship is in Belarus and with teams like Belarus, Latvia and Russia looking to impress this year in front of large home crowds they looking for. Expect another tough battle for Young American Team looking to defend the U18 Gold.

Finally the international season wraps up with the IIHF World Championship in May which will be in Germany. With the Americans finishing in 4th last season in Switzerland, this is the only IIHF Event where the Americans are looking to improve to get on the medal podium this season.

To start the tournament this year, they will be in a part of a World Record Attempt against the Tournament Host Germany at the home of the German Soccer Giants FC Schakle that will look to bring in 75,000 fans in the city of Gelsenkirchen. After the Opening game, the Americans will play Northern European Hopefuls Finland and Denmark who's looking to improve after barely avoiding relegation last year.

With the Americans holding medals in nearly every major tournament over the last calender year. The Americans players at all ages will look to keep the momentum as we go through the later stages of the season to bring home more hardware from the worlds biggest hockey events.

Here's a look at what's left in store for the remaining events for the 2009/2010 International Hockey Tournament Season.

2010 World Junior Women's Championship

Dates and Location: March 27-April 3 in Chicago

Arena: Seven Bridges Arena

Teams and Format

Group A: U.S.A. (Defending Champions), Czech Republic, Finland, Japan (Promoted from 2009 WJWC DIV 1)

Group B: Canada, Sweden, Germany, Russia

The 8 teams will start in 2 groups of 4 playing a round robin format. Then after the Round Robin, the Group Winners will advance automatically to the Semifinals, while the 2nd and 3rd place teams will cross over and play each other.

The Winners will advance to play the Group Winners in the Semifinals will the QF Losers will play each other for 5th and 6th place in this tournament. After the Semifinals, the Winners will play each other for Gold while the Losers will play for the Bronze Medal Game.

In the Relegation Round, the 4th Place Teams will play a best of 3 series where the winner will finish 7th and keep their spot for next season, while the loser will finish 8th and will be relegated to Division 1 for the 2010/2011 season.


2010 U18 World Championship

Dates and Cities: April 13-23 in Minsk & Bobruisk, Belarus

Home Arenas: Minsk Palace & Bobruisk Arena

Teams and Tournament Format

Group A: U.S.A. (Defending Champions), Canada, Sweden, Switzerland, Belarus (Promoted from 2009 U18 DIV 1)

Group B: Russia, Finland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Latvia (Promoted from 2009 U18 DIV 1)

Tournament Format: After the Round Robin where each team plays 4 games. The top 3 teams advance to the Knockout Rounds where the Group Winners will automatically advance to the Semifinals.

While the 2nd and 3rd Place Teams will cross over for the Quarterfinals, the winners will advance to play the Group Winners in the Semifinals, while the QF Losers will play for 5th and 6th place. The SF Winners will advance to play for Gold while the Losers play for the Bronze Medal.

In the Relegation round, the 4th and 5th place teams will play the other 2 teams from the opposing groups. The game between the 4th and 5th place teams will carry over and will be part of the Relegation Round Robin. After the Relegation Round, the 1st and 2nd place teams will finish 7th and 8th and keep their spots for the 2011 U18 World Championship.

While the 3rd and 4th place teams will finish 9th and 10th, and they will relegate to the 2011 U18 Division 1 Tournament.

2010 IIHF World Hockey Championship

Dates & Cities: May 7-23 in Cologne, Mannheim, and Gelsenkirchen in Germany

Home Arenas: LANXESS Arena, SAP Arena, Veltins-Arena

Teams and Format

Group A: Russia (Defending Champions), Belarus, Slovakia, Kazakhstan (Promoted from 2009 IHWC DIV 1)

Group B: Canada, Switzerland, Latvia, Italy (Promoted from 2009 IHWC DIV 1)

Group C: Sweden, Czech Republic, Norway, France

Group D: Finland, U.S.A., Germany, Denmark

Tournament Format: The Tournament opens with the 4 1st round groups where the top 3 move on to the 2nd round to form 2 groups of 6. (Groups A & D Combine to make Group E), (Groups B & C Combine to make Group F). In the 2nd Round, the teams will cross over and will carry over the standings from the 2 teams that they advanced to the 2nd Round, while the matches against the 4th place team is dropped.

After the 3 2nd Round Games are finished, the top 4 teams will advance to the Quarterfinals where it becomes a single elimination format to determine the champions. For the 2nd Round, the Groups cross over again where E1 will take on F4, E2 takes on F3 and etc.

The winners play each other in the Semifinals, where the winners will play for Gold, while the losers play for Bronze Medals.

In the Relegation Round, the 4 4th place teams will play a Round Robin Format where the results are thrown out from the Prelim Round. After the 3 game Relegation Round Robin is over, the top 2 teams will finish 13th and 14th, and will keep the spots for the 2011 IHWC tournament. While the 3rd and 4th place teams will finish 15th and 16th, and will be relegated to the Division 1 IHWC Tournament for next season.

Zach Parise beats out Hiller, Sends U.S.A. to Semifinals

At times today, it seemed like Jonas Hiller was standing on his head keeping it scoreless through 2 periods despite the U.S.A. out shooting Switzerland 32-8 through 2 periods. But Zach Parise who after Ryan Miller, maybe has been the best player for Team U.S.A. during the Olympic Tournament to send them to Semifinals who will play the lowest reaming seed during Friday's Semifinals at Canada Hockey Place.

You have got to give Switzerland and Jonas Hiller in particular a lot of props from getting to 3 OT games including forcing Canada to a SO.

Also giving the U.S.A. two stellar games where they proved they have been one of the fasting improving teams in the world. It's only a matter of time before Switzerland I think will finally break through and win an International Medal. After a strong performance in the WJC as they got to the Semifinals, and a strong showing in the Olympics for the 2nd straight time.

Despite not getting the massive upsets like they did in 2006, they have succeeded in letting the world know that 2006 was no joke. If Switzerland can start getting more players in the NHL, watch out for the Swiss to contend for an Olympic Medal in the near future. One player to watch out for in the near future could be Nino Niederreiter who had a strong showing for the Swiss for the Junior Team at the WJC and has had a great season with the Portland Winterhawks in the Western Hockey League.

The Swiss have two more shots at hockey glory this season at the U18 World Championships which will be in Belarus in April. Then in May is the Ice Hockey World Championships which will be in the German Cities of Mannheim, Colonge, and Gelsenkirchen where a world Record Attempt will be look to be set during Germany's Opening game of the IHWC. Expect the Swiss to be strong at both events in the spring.

For the Americans, this game was big that they can play against a desperate team that was looking to pull off a big upset. The Young American Players, especially guys like Ryan Miller, Zach Parise and Brian Rafalski who are playing in their First Olympics are showing that they can get it done against the best in the world.

Next up will be either the Czech Republic or Finland who finished with the Silver and Bronze Medals in 2006, the Americans have shown that playing teams in the Prelims and Quarterfinals that these guys are that good. Now they await they toughest test yet as they look to take down teams that are looking to win Gold after coming so close 4 years ago in Turin, Italy.

Next up for the U.S.A. will be the lowest remaining seeded team in the Semifinals coming up on Friday afternoon. With the win today by Team U.S.A., they will be guaranteed a chance at a medal this year. The Bronze Medal Game is on Saturday Night at 7:00 PM PST, then on Sunday afternoon is the Gold Medal Game as it's the final major event of these Winter Olympic Closing Ceremonies on Sunday Night.

From John Sanful of the International Ice Hockey Federation Website: http://www.iihf.com/

From Vancouver: The Americans dodged a bullet on Wednesday afternoon. Switzerland threatened to beat the U.S.A. since the 1948 Winter Olympic Games, but Zach Parise's power play goal in the third period gave the U.S.A. a 2-0 win, moving into the Semifinals against the Winner of the Czech Republic VS. Finland Game later tonight.

This was not the ideal scenario for Team U.S.A. After coming off a big win over Canada to finish atop Prelim Group A, Team U.S.A. entered this game meeting an opponent they've already beaten on the opening day of the Men's Tournament.

Prior to this game these teams have played each other 6 times in Olympic play with the U.S.A. winning all 6 prior games. But the Swiss would have none of it, Switzerland has grown accustomed to playing closely contested games. Their last 3 games have gone into OT and two shootouts. They played like a team that had nothing to lose, taking the play to the Americans.

"It was good to go into the intermission with a 0-0 game," said Yannick Weber. "I think it would have been different if it was 1-0." I think it gave us some confidence. We went out in the third period to get the win." It was close, but it just wasn't our day."

Team U.S.A. started tentatively, turning over the puck their first pass out of their zone. In addition there were several individual efforts that were unsuccessful. Rather then dump the puck and go after it, a few skaters tried to stickhandle through Swiss players, which was hardly effective.

The Swiss was rentless in pursuit of the puck. They enjoyed several odd-man rushes. Despite only four shots in the 1st period, the Swiss would also threaten, including one shift where Raffaele Sannitz had exceptional chances to score and delivered a big hit.

It was the Jonas Hiller Show today. Ryan Miller had to be extra sharp today as he faced odd man rushes and high percentage shots from the Swiss, whe were playing with incredible confidence. Miller was poised in goal. Jonas Hiller also stood strong for his team in goal, making 18 saves in the first period alone and keeping the Americans off the scoreboard.

In the 2nd period, Phil Kessel had the best chance for the Americans for the Americans when he sent a shot that rang off the post and crossbar. With time running out in the 2nd period, the Americans through that Dustin Brown had scored near the end of the 2nd. Hiller made a save then as the puck was in the air tried to bat it upwards, which he did but it went over his shoulder and on the goal line with no time left on the clock.

The play was reviewed and the officials concluded no goal.

"I was upset about the disallowed goal more then anything," said Ryan Kesler. "I though it was in. I didn't hear the horn until afterwards."

After two periods of play the Americans and Swiss remained tied. It appeared the inexperience and nerves of Team U.S.A. may have gotten the best of them. Only a big 3rd period would change things.

"It was good to go into the intermission with a 0-0 game," said Yannick Weber. "I think it would have been different if it was a 1-0. I think it game us some confidence. We went out in the 3rd period to get the win. It was close, but just wasn't our day."

The American Power Play was out of sync until the third period when Zach Parise put his team on the board when Philippe Furrer was called for Tripping.

Parise tapped his stick on the ice in front of Hiller, expecting a good low shot could be redirected. Brian Rafalski's shot was deflected by Parise over Hiller's glove and slowly dribbled into the net.

Swiss Assistant Captain, Sandy Jeannin appeared to have tied the game a few minutes later. Instant Replay showed that his shot hit the post and roll across the goal line, but didn't cross over the goal line. Parise had another chance but hit the post. Team U.S.A. picked up things significantly in the 3rd period. They were skating much more effectively and creating quality scoring chances.

"It'd be a lot less nerve wracking [to win big]," said Rafalski. "But it's good for our guys. It's a sign of maturity that we didn't panic. We didn't sit back, we continued to create chances."

The Swiss would not let up. With less then two minutes remaining they called a timeout to pull Jonas Hiller, but Parise scored his 2nd on an empty net. Now the Americans can take a breath and watch tonight's game at the UBC Thunderbird Arena to find out who they will play in Friday's Semifinal.

"Right now, we sit back and watch the Finns and Czechs play," said Rafalski. "We've run into Finland a lot over the years in recent international events, the Czechs, not so much. The Finns have good, deep goaltending, and both teams have good forwards. "It'll be a tough night either way".

Look for the Canada VS. Russia Game Report Later Tonight, then the Czech Republic VS. Finland and Sweden VS. Slovakia Game Reports tomorrow.

Offical Game Report: www.vancouver2010.com/olympic-hockey/schedule-and-results/mens-play-offs-quarterfinals---game-23_ihm400301xK.html

Game Photos: www.iihf.com/en/channels10/olympics-2010/pictures/page/0/game/USA%20-%20SUI%20%28QF%29.html

U.S.A. Women Crush Sweden, Cruise to Gold Medal Game

After Team U.S.A. dominating performances in the Group Stage, the Americans continued their freight train to the final as the Americans made sure that a repeat of 2006 would not be in the cards as the Americans take down 9-1 to get back to the Final. The Americans will look to win their first Women's Hockey Gold Medal on Thursday night either against Canada or Finland since the tournament made its debut back in 1998.

From John Sanful of the International Ice Hockey Federation Website: www.iihf.com

Except for the possibility of facing Canada, Team U.S.A. has been awaiting this game.

Looking to avenge a 3-2 semifinal loss to Sweden at the 2006 Winter Olympics, Team U.S.A came into this game clearly motivated by the opportunity. With goals from 7 different skaters, Team U.S.A. Defeated Sweden 9-1.

The win moves Team U.S.A. into a gold medal showdown with either Canada or Finland on Thursday night at Canada Hockey Place.

We've trained hard for this and we're all fired up now that we're going to the gold medal game," said Meghan Duggan.

The 2010 U.S.A. Women's team bears no resemblance to the divided squad that was upset in Turin. This team is more focused on and committed to winning. Most important, there's no drama surrounding the team to distract from their main goal: winning.

In today's semifinal game, the Americans attack was balanced. Jenny Potter's leads the team in goal scoring but did not have to carry the offense as Monique Lamoreux had that covered. Team U.S.A. took the lead when Lamoureux, accepted a pass from Julie Chu and drove to the net.

Pernilla Winberg tried jamming in a shot but Jesse Vetter, who has been exceptional in the tournament, made the save. The Americans quickly turned things around off the transition, Lamoureux accepted a Julie Chu and made a power move to the net.

Duggan scored a power play goal off a Catlin Cahow rebound infront. The Goal came at 8:23 as Emma Eliasson was in the penalty box for body checking. Swedish goalie Kim Martin made the original save on Cahow's shot, but Duggan was there to tap the rebound home.

The Americans resumed their dominance of the Swedes in the 2nd period when Angela Ruggiero, Cahow, and Karen Thatcher added middle frame markers. Pernilla Winberg scored Sweden's only goal on the power play at 9:34 of the 2nd period.

By the 3rd period, the Americans were on top of their game. Lamoureux added two goals in the third to register a hat trick. Julie Chu, who had members of her family in attendance, and Kim Stack also tallied in the period. U.S.A has one more game, and it will be a big one.

"It is now a one game season for us, said Chu. "It will take sixty minutes of hard work and we have to get the puck to the net, but there will be no surprises. Sweden will face the loser of the Canada-Finland game in the Bronze Medal Game on Thursday afternoon.

Game Summary: www.vancouver2010.com/olympic-hockey/schedule-and-results/womens-play-offs-semifinals---game-15_ihw400201Bk.html

U.S.A. VS. Sweden Photos: www.iihf.com/de/channels10/olympics-2010/pictures/page/0/game/USA%20-%20SWE%20%28SF%29.html

My Thoughts on U.S.A win over Switzerland

After a strong 3-1 win over Switzerland yesterday. The U.S.A. has put themselves in a strong position to possibly contend for the 2nd Round Bye out of Group A. Even if the Americans don't win the group, the Americans will be looking for a blow out win the Norwegians tomorrow to help their chances of at least being the best of the 3 2nd place teams to get the final 2nd Round Bye and get automatically through to the Quarterfinals.

They was some great things I saw yesterday, include peppering the Swiss Goalie Jonas Hiller that help kept the Swiss Defense. And Goaltending on their heels and keeping the Swiss offense from making just a whole lot chances, especially early in the game. Also, Ryan Miller has proven to be a strong netminder through his successful season with the Buffalo Sabres and in the tournament opener.

Some great chances on the PP including Ryan Malone's PP Goal to make it 3-0 late in the 2nd period. Even though they scored, the other 2 power plays didn't produce very much and that needs to get better as that could burn them as the tournament goes on, especially when the Americans and Canadians face off on Sunday.

Also, matching The team's physicality was big, by matching the Swiss number of hits early on in the game. In addition, they were able to keep the game clean by only taking 2 penalties in the entire game to limit the number of chances for the Swiss Offense. When you play teams like this, keeping the game clean is a huge factor as that's one of the best ways lower ranked opponents try to beat you on the Special Teams.

Now, the biggest criticism was the fact that they gave up way to many odd man rushes to the Swiss. One of the biggest things that kept the Swiss from getting in this game was the fact that many of the 2 on 1 chances were either to high or to wide and didn't challenge Ryan Miller that much in the game as the SOG were 24-15 in the game, but it could have been a lot higher for the Swiss real easily.

If the Americans are going to perform well in this tournament. This is the biggest thing that the U.S.A. needs to work on for the game against Norway tomorrow, then get themselves ready for the game against Canada on Sunday that should be to win the Group and gain a 2nd Round Bye for when the 2nd Round starts on 2/23.

Ryan Miller needs to be huge in this tournament, he's going to need to help steal the Canadian Game on Sunday and then either the 2nd Round and/or Quarterfinal Game to help the Americans have a chance of winning a medal this month in Vancouver.

Bottom Line: The Americans may still be underdogs, but the Americans have done well in this role countless time before. From the Miracle on Ice Game, to the recent WJC Tournament where the Americans upset Canada.

The Americans may have a shot to continue what's been a great season so far this year as the Americans look to win their 2nd major tournament of the international season. Including the WJC just after Christmas, plus some other big events like the U17 World Challenge and the World Junior A Challenge so far this season.

Even with a deep field, the Americans are not afraid and they believe that they can win a Medal at the Olympics.

U.S.A. Women's Blow's Out Russia

For the 2nd straight game, the American Women have taken another strong step towards getting back to the Olympic Gold Medal with their 2nd straight Double Digit Victory. In their opener against China, they won 12-1, this time against Russia, it's a 13-0 win over a Russian Team that was hoping to win the Bronze Medal. Next up is Finland that will determine who the Americans Semifinal Matchup will be, it will either by Sweden or Canada whose the top 2 in the other group in this tournament.

From the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Website. http://www.iihf.com/

In 1980 Mark Johnson helped make life difficult for the Soviets in helping Team U.S.A. to one of the biggest upsets in sports history. Today as Women's Team Head Coach, his U.S.A. Women's team was equally unkind, beating Russia in a rout.

For the second straight time, Team U.S.A won in a blowout, by defeating Russia 13-0 in the Women's Prelim Round. Led by Jenny Potter's hat trick and Natalie Darwitz's two goals, the Americans remained undefeated. Russia has not won a game yet.

Today, the American Women put on an offensive display that rivals what the Canadians have done so far at the UBC Thunderbird Arena. Team U.S.A. has scored 25 goals in the 2 games so far.

"We wanted to focus on a few things, but mostly winning and keeping the puck out of our net." Said Jenny Porter.

Monique Lamoreaux scored the only goal the Americans needed at 2:19 of the first period. Lamoreaux intercepted a clearing attempt and weaved through the defense and let go of a wrist shot that beat Goaltender Anna Prugova between the pads.

At 5:48 Holly Knight blocked a shot and sent an outlet pass up to Potter in stride. Potter's wrist shot beat Prugova. The goal was shorthanded with :43 remaining on a penalty to Caitlin Cahow who was called off the interference.

In the third period Prugova was busy facing seventeen shots. Karen Thatcher, Cahow and Potter once again would add goals to comfortably put the U.S.A. up 5-0. While the Americans were dominant, the Russians did not help their cause by taking some penalties. Six of the 13 goals scored on the PP. Head Coach Valentin Gureev could only watch from the bench as his team was overmatched in every aspect the game.

When Natalie Darwitz scored his 2nd goal of the 2nd period, Gureev lifted Prugova from the game and inserted Mariya Onolbaeva. Potter greeted Onolbaev :46 later by scoring her third goal of the afternoon.

By the third period the Russians were visibly frustrated. Matters were not helped when Alena Khomich deflected a Jinelle Zaugg-Siergiej shot into Russia's net. Zaugg-Siergiej received credit for the goal, her first of the Olympic Tournament.

Russia showed some signs of life late in the 2nd period and in spots over the third but could not sustain any pressure on Jessie Vetter who faced just 7 shots in the game. When they did the crowd, a mix of Canadian and American Fans, cheered loudly in support of Russia's effort.

"They played their hearts out," said Anglea Ruggiero, who scored a 2nd period goal. "I respect them deeply and hope the Russian Federation sees the potential for the Women's Program.

The Americans are firing on all offensive cylinders and getting important production from key players. Potter has been an offensive force here in Vancouver. She's recorded six goals, which leads all scorers. Holly Knight added four assists in the game giving her 5 so far in the tournament.

They will close out Group Round play on Thursday against Finland. Russia will be looking for it's first win against China.

"Our goal is to get through this round," said Darwitz. "We have an important game against Finland and that is what we are now concentrating on".

Game Report:
www.vancouver2010.com/olympic-hockey/schedule-and-results/womens-preliminary-round---group-b-game-7-_ihw400b03WE.html

U.S.A. VS. Switzerland 2nd Period Intermission Update

The Americans followed a strong end of the 1st with a great 2nd period with goals by David Backes and Ryan Malone to make it 3-0 at the 2nd intermission. Everything looked better in that 2nd period, and they may start getting Switzerland on the run right now. In addition to the goals, the U.S.A. were able to outshot the Swiss 14-6 in that 2nd period and by limiting the number of Swiss scoring chances.

On the 2-0 goal, a great save by Ryan Miller helped set a great counter attack where David Backes was able to slip it through Jonas Hiller's pads to make it 2-0. It looked for a moment that Hiller was able to make the save, but with some great hard work. And Backess being able to slip through, the Americans were able to put them up 2-0 just a couple of minutes into the 2nd period. Then midway through the 3rd period, then Ryan Malone helped make it 3-0 to put the Swiss on edge.

Right now, the Swiss are playing to conservatively and seem to afraid to attack right now. If the Swiss are going to make this game, the attack will need to faster and crisper; also the Swiss will need to pick up the physically like they did early in the game.

For the U.S.A., they need to shore up the odd man situations as the Swiss will look to comeback from the 3-0 hole they in right now.

2nd Period Goals

2-0: David Backess
3-0: Ryan Malone


SOG: U.S.A. 14 SUI 6 Total 22-11

Twitter Updates during U.S.A. Men's Olympic Hockey Games

Be sure to check out twitter for updates during the Men's Olympic Hockey Tournament Opener which will start at 3:00 PM Eastern/2:00 PM Central Time as the Americans will open up Group A play and the entire tournament against Switzerland. I will be providing updates of goals, fights and every moment that helps turn the tide as the Americans quest for Hockey Gold gets underway on the USA Network.

In addition to the USA VS. Switzerland game, Canada will start the tournament against Norway. Also Group B gets underway later tonight as former Soviet Rivals Russia VS. Latvia will take on each other tonight.

Look for updates during the 1st and 2nd intermission of the all the U.S.A. Games during the Men's Olympic Tournament and select Women's Olympic Tournament Games as well.

Today's Schedule

U.S.A. VS. Switzerland 2:00 PM on USA Network

Canada VS. Norway 6:30 PM on CNBC

Russia VS. Latvia 10:55 PM on CNBC


For more, here's my twitter page. www.twitter.com/tanman9