Wes Myron Commits to the NCAA's Boston University

Big Congratulations goes out to Wes Myron on his scholarship to the NCAA powerhouse Boston University.
Myron, who looks to have an exciting last year and is expecting to put up big numbers for the Grizzlies, before heading off to the BU Terriers for next season. Wes, has worked hard each year he has been with Victoria and this has paid off for him with the scholarship and selection to the World Jnr A Championships, with Team Canada West. Exciting times in the Myron household not doubt.
Wes, will join fellow Grizzlies sniper Mike Moran at Boston next season as well as former Grizzlie hitman Justin Courtnell, who is an assistant Captain on the team this year.

Grizzlies 2-0 Rivermen @Bear Mtn Arena, Oct 20th

A game of goaltending, battling and of course Garret Rockafellow and James Barr.
Both goalies deserve a tip of the hat as they both kept their teams in this game up until the end of the game.Victoria and Langley, wouldn't give up an inch of ice in this Sunday afternoon match up at Bear Mtn Arena, which may not have had the drama of dramatic comebacks or goals galore, it was just good blue collar hockey!!!

1st and 2nd Period - Both teams would press each other in the first two periods which at times was a chippy affair. No less than 18 penalties where dished out by the inconsistent reffing of Mike Campbell. Ten Vaanholt and Murphy would trouble R'men goalie James Barr quickly and often,but, with his mammoth defencemen, Bakken, Bell, Nitsche,Chichkin and Whitely would keep the attack minded Grizzlies forwards off the score sheet. At the other end, Robertson and his defencemen aided by AP and I'm sure future Grizzlies star Garret Kemmler, would drive back the frustrated Rivermen forwards. Rockafellow, in his first start in recent games was excellent and was quick and dealt with anything Langley threw at him. It would remain 0-0 after the first two.

3rd period - Would see both teams again try and break the dead lock, which would eventually happen on a Grizzlies PP after a high sticking incident. Holland, would drive to the net and with the Grizzlies buzzing all over the Langley zone, Murphy would finally score by the unlucky James Barr for a 1-0 Grizzlies lead. With the mid way point of the period approaching, Woodyatt and ex Grizz Mike Tebbutt would drop the gloves which would result in them going down on the ice and Tebbutt taking a bite out of Woodyatt's hand. By Kevin's reaction and the treatment he received afterwards, Woody was in a fair bit of pain. A number of fans and myself where quite disgusted with the incident and Mike Tebbutt should give his head a shake after that one.
Back to the hockey and after some good chances at each end, both Rockafellow and Barr would stay cool under pressure. After some scrappy play and a some cheap shots from both teams, Head Coach Len Barrie, would lose his cool and told referee Campbell in his finest Langfordese, what he though of his officiating. Bye bye Barrie was the result of this conversation as the Grizzlies owner and coach was sent to the stands and penalty against his team. This, however, would put Langley on a 5 on 3 which they couldn't capitalize on, except for a great shot from a R'men Defencemen which was screaming towards the net but, Rockafellow, positioned himself nicely to pull off a great glove save. That save got a great response for the home fans and for Rockafellow would cap an excellent shut out performance. The Grizzlies would add an empty netter in the last minute from the consistent Cam Lawson who made it a 2-0 Grizzlies final!!!

Games Thoughts for the Grizzlies: Another well rounded team effort from the Grizzlies which saw them grind out this win and make few errors at the back. Some good solid Rockafellow goaltending and the ability to keep Langley off the score sheet, capped a very solid 2 wins from 3 games in 3 night.
This win keeps Victoria in third place with a record of 9 wins and 7 losses and the winners of 8 of there last 10 games. Wade Murphy still tops the BCHL scoring charts.
 Braxton Bilous was a scratch today, I'm not sure if he was healthy scratch or not,but, here's hoping Braxton can gets his season going soon. The talent is there!!!!!
Credit to the Penalty killers tonight who didn't give Langley any chance to get anything going.

Games Thoughts for the Rivermen: Although this was there third loss to Victoria in 2 weeks, Langley battled hard and defended well and along with goalie James Barr where unlucky not to take something from this game. Although anchored to the bottom of the conference, this league is well matched and tight, so a good run from Langley might see them back in contention soon.
Nice bus/coach the Langley organization has with the logo and design on it, which just goes to show how serious the Henderson's are about turning Langley into one of the top Jnr A teams in the league!!

Standouts for the Grizzlies:
Garrett Rockafellow- After a couple of shaky outings, Rockafellow stood tall tonight stopping all 34 shots he faced. From the warm up, you could feel the vibe that Rocks gave out, looking ready and determined this afternoon. Quick and alert all game and with the shut out as well, should give Garrett a lot of confidence moving forward.

Standouts for the Rivermen:
James Barr - With a good Scottish name, Barr lived it up to it tonight with a steely/stingy display that took a powerplay in the third for the Grizzlies to solve him. Making 34 saves he kept Langley in it all afternoon and deserved the applause he got from the crowd for his 2nd star honors today.

3 Stars of the Games - 1st * Garrett Rockafellow 2nd * James Barr   3rd * Wade Murphy

Attendance - 831( eyes wonder)  Shot on Goal - Victoria 34 and Langley 34  Powerplays - Victoria 1 for 6 and Langley 0 for 8

Tonights first star of the game Garrett Rockafellow.

Recent Poll Result - Salsa Retro Night

Does a hockey logo get anymore orginal than this!!!!

So is it time to bring back the steroid infused jalapeno back for one night. In a recent poll done on Grizz Roar out of 38 votes, over 80% you voted for a Salsa retro night. Players emblazing the old Salsa colours on their jersey and the fans dusting off there old Victoria Salsa apparel for a little trip back in time for one game.

It could be fun and there's no mistaking what an important era to this franchise the Salsa years where.
From 1994 to 2001 the Salsa and the BCHL filled the void in the old Memorial arena once the Victoria Cougars fled to Prince George. The Salsa would play a couple of seasons out of Esquimalt's, Archie Browning Arena before moving to Bear Mtn Arena in 2004.
Enjoying some very good crowds for the BCHL level, players like Ryan O'Byrne, Kyle Greentree, Jordan Sigalet, Pierre Napert-Frenette, Bozak, Pettinger and Aaron Varos would leave there mark on the franchise and our fans.
The Salsa's best year was certainly the 2000-01 BCHL Championship/Fred Page Cup year, which took them all the way to the Doyle Cup before losing out to AJHL powerhouse the Camrose Kodiak's.
Ahhh the good old days, full barns at the Memorial Arena.

So what do you say folks, lets bring a piece of the past into the future. Hopefully if Reza, Lennie, Jody or the Wagstaff's read this they might take it on board

Victoria Grizzlies v Langley Rivermen @ Bear Mountain Arena, 4:30pm, Sunday, October 30th

The Grizzlies will turn around early this morning and be back on the ferry in time for a tilt against the Rivermen, which will be there third game in two weeks against this team. Victoria, has won the first two games convincingly but, won't be taking Langley lightly.
It kinda boils down to keeping that home ice form going and this is again a very winnable game for the Grizzlies.
There can be no excuses about the Grizzlies travel schedule as of late, as I can bet Langley will be the same ferry tomorrow morning,as they played v's the Clippers last night losing 4-1.
Hope to see everyone at the Bear tomorrow night. Full game report and other stuff after the game, right here on Grizz Roar

Good luck to Wes Myron who is currently trying out for Canada Team West at this time for the world Jnr A hockey championship coming up soon!!!!

Express 2-5 Grizzlies @ Poirier Sports Arena, Saturday, October 29th

After a lackluster performance in Nanaimo on Friday night, the Grizzlies would hop on BC Ferries for a tilt against the so far unpredictable Coquitlam Express. Coached by one of Canada's up and coming coaches John Calvano, the Express would ice ex-Grizzlies D-men Taylor Love and Bruin MacDonald.

The Grizzlies would give 17 yr old Osoyoos Coyotes/Princeton Posse KIJHL standout, 

Charles James Lilles his debut after being injured throughout the summer months. In what would be a more rounded team effort the Grizzlies would add a valuable road victory against the Express to keep the Grizzlies in the top half of the Coastal Conference.

A back and forth first period would see the Grizzlies put pressure on Express goalie Khaleed Devji, but couldn't make the break through.

The 2nd period would start off well, as the speedy and growing in confidence Coltyn Hansen would score after two minutes. Not to be out down the Express would dig deep and start buzzing around the Grizzlies goal as  Jason Bird and impressive Brady Shaw would score 5 minutes apart from each other to take a 2-1 home team lead.

The 3rd period, would see the Grizzlies step up a few gears and really take it to Calvano's team.

Mike Moran, would level thing with a little help from Robertson and Murphy. Jarryd Ten Vaanholt on the PP, would keep his impressive form going with Victoria's forth for the Grizzlies lead.

The Grizzlies would pepper the Express net and would be rewarded with the 5th goal from the Arizona scrapper Kevin Woodyatt, for his first Grizzlies goal and seal the deal for Vic Gervais boys.

Valuable road victory for the Grizzlies and two key points.

Game Thoughts Victoria: Good team effort with guys like Hansen, Kasier, Godinho and Woodyatt growing in confidence.

Game Thoughts Coquitlam: The talent ad coaching is there and with a number of players coming  and going recently; the Express will be looking to get back on track. That's all well and good, but, it needs to happen sooner rather than later for this team.

Attendance: 513(sounding like Burnaby again) Shots on goal: Express - 29 and Grizzlies - 48

Power Play: Express 1 for 3 and Grizzlies 1 for 7

Charles James Lilles

Clippers 3-2 Grizzlies @ Frank Crane Arena 7pm, Oct 28th

                                                       

This was the 5th time in a month the Grizzlies and Clippers have met this month!!!
The Clippers edged the Grizzlies tonight, in what was a close run match for the most part.
In the tightly packed Coastal Conference the Clippers picked up a key win tonight with the special teams hammering the nail in the Grizzlies coffin.
Nanaimo, would score two PP goals from Hartskamp and new signing Luke Gordon in the first period. Sandwiched between those two Clipper goals the Grizzlies top line would keep bring there scoring prowess alive, via Wes Myron with assists from Murphy and Ten Vaanholt at the mid way point of the 1st.
In the 2nd period, PP marker number three for the Clippers, would come courtesy of the Grizzlies trapper himself, Kyle Kramer as he put the Clippers up 3-1. Despite peppering Billy Faust goal, there wouldn't be any puck luck for the Grizz in the 2nd.
The third period would give the Grizz hope, as offensive Dman, Pernerowski would score early in the first 2 minutes. Good effort aside, the Grizzlies couldn't find that equalizer as Billy Faust held firm in the Clippers goal. A little bad blood at the end of the game resulted in Gehl and Kramer going at it right at the buzzer.

For a further game report from tonight action check out our social media guru, Mr. Tony Burrows at the Grizzlies Official facebook page, including action shots.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Grizzlies-Official-Home-BCHL/167024846672894

Three Stars of the game:

1st* Billy Faust                2nd * Jarryd Ten Vaanholt             3rd * Josh Phillips

Attendance: 934 Shots on Goal: Clippers 29  and Grizzlies 36    Power Play: Clippers 3 for 7 and Grizzlies 0 for 7

With only 5 points separating 2nd from 7th, the Grizzlies remain in 3rd place heading into tomorrow's nights game in Coquitlam at Frank Poirier Arena, game time 7pm. You can hear Scott Didmons live broadcast on the Village 900 am.

Hectic Schedule - 7 Games in 10 days

Oct 28, 2011	7:00	Nanaimo Clippers	Frank Crane Arena                       Away
Oct 29, 2011	7:00	Coquitlam Express	Coquitlam Sports Centre              Away
Oct 30, 2011	4:30	Langley Rivermen	Bear Mountain Arena                  Home
Nov 01, 2011	7:15	Nanaimo Clippers	Bear Mountain Arena                  Home
Nov 04, 2011	7:00	Surrey Eagles	South Surrey Arena                     Away
Nov 05, 2011	7:00	Langley Rivermen	Langley Events Centre                Away
Nov 06, 2011	2:00	Coquitlam Express	Coquitlam Sports Centre              Away

Ex-Grizzlie Update - Bruin MacDonald to the Express

Ex Grizzlie defender Bruin Macdonald who played with the club last season, has signed for his home town team the Coquiltam Express.
Highly touted as 15/16 yr old, he played two and half seasons with the Prince George Cougars in the WHL, before landing with the Grizzlies.
Bruin, played 14 games in a Grizzlies uniform and at times looked like a keeper. Bruin, had 1 goal and 4 assists, amassing 26 penalty minutes for Victoria.
After leaving the Grizzlies, he was part of what would be the Kyle St.Denis trade ( I could be wrong) and ended up in Vernon before heading back to Major Junior with the Gatineau Olympiques of the QMJHL. Talk about getting to know Canada through your hockey travels!!!

Good luck to Bruin with the Express.

Wes Myron picked to play for Team Canada West

Congratulations to Wes Myron, who has been selected to be a part of TeamCanada West, at the upcoming World Junior hockey tournament in Langley BC, from Nov 7-13 at the Langley Events Centre. This Hockey Canada Event showcases the best Junior A players from Canada (two jnr A Canada teams both East and West), Czech Republic, USA, Russia and Sweden. This is a yearly tournament and a number of the games will be shown on TSN and TSN 2.
Anytime a player is picked to play for his country it is an honor and I'm sure Wes will thrive and represent the colours of Team Canada West with class. With a number of NCAA and NHL scouts in attendance, this is another great opportunity for these players to showcase their talent at this level.
Team Canada West, will be coached by Powell River's Kent Lewis and will also include ex-Grizzlie Evan Richardson.

Here is the team roster for Canada West, which includes players from the BCHL,AJHL,SJHL and MJHL.

Here is the link to the tournamnets website: http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/177024/la_id/1/ss_id/170420/




Roster from the hockeycanada.ca site

CANADA WEST SELECTION CAMP ROSTER

Name	S/C	Ht.	Wt.	Born	Hometown	Club Team
Nom	T/C	Gr.	Pds	DDN	Ville d'origine	Équipe de club
Goaltenders/Gardiens de but
Jayson Argue	L/G	5’11”	170	07/22/93	Swan River, Man.	Swan Valley (MJHL)
Tyler Briggs	L/G	5’11”	175	04/08/92	Sherwood Park, Alta./Alb.	Lloydminster (AJHL)
Colin Dzijacky	L/G	6’0”	180	06/14/92	Thunder Bay, Ont.	Grande Prairie (AJHL)
Sean Maguire	L/G	6’2”	180	02/02/93	Powell River, B.C./C.-B.	Powell River (BCHL)
Defence/Défense
Matt Benning	R/D	6’0”	210	05/25/94	St. Albert, Alta./Alb.	Spruce Grove (AJHL)
Brett Corkey	L/G	5’10”	170	04/14/92	Calgary, Alta./Alb.	Vernon (BCHL)
Rhett Holland	R/D	6’1”	212	09/25/93	Calgary, Alta./Alb.	Okotoks (AJHL)
Tanner Jago	L/G	5’10”	160	05/19/94	Brandon, Man.	Winkler (MJHL)
Sam Jardine	L/G	6’2”	185	08/12/93	Lacombe, Alta./Alb.	Camrose (AJHL)
Luke Juha	L/G	5’11”	185	03/09/93	Mississauga, Ont.	Vernon (BCHL)
Jordan Paddock	L/G	5’11”	186	03/29/93	Port Alberni, B.C./C.-B.	Powell River (BCHL)
Colton Parayko	R/D	6’3”	195	05/12/93	St. Albert, Alta./Alb.	Fort McMurray (AJHL)
Yvan Pattyn	R/D	6’1”	196	03/31/93	Ste. Anne, Man.	Portage (MJHL)
Josh Roach	R/D	6’1”	200	07/23/92	Saskatoon, Sask.	Humboldt (SJHL)
Troy Stecher	R/D	5’10”	165	04/07/94	Richmond, B.C./C.-B.	Penticton (BCHL)
Reece Willcox	L/G	6’2”	185	03/20/94	Surrey, B.C./C.-B.	Merritt (BCHL)
Forwards/Avants
Tommy Barszcz	L/G	5’10”	166	04/12/93	St. Catharines, Ont.	Bonnyville (AJHL)
Carson Cooper	L/G	6’0”	180	03/18/92	Bow Island, Alta./Alb.	Fort McMurray (AJHL)
Paul De Jersey	R/D	6’3”	200	07/25/92	West Vancouver, B.C./C.-B.	Prince George (BCHL)
Aaron Hadley	R/D	6’2”	190	07/22/93	Castlegar, B.C./C.-B.	Vernon (BCHL)
Connor Hoekstra	R/D	5’11”	185	01/21/93	St. Albert, Alta./Alb.	Canmore (AJHL)
Alex Kerfoot	L/G	5’7”	130	08/11/94	West Vancouver, B.C./C.-B.	Coquitlam (BCHL)
Jujhar Khaira	L/G	6’1”	180	08/13/94	Surrey, B.C./C.-B.	Prince George (BCHL)
Riley Kieser	L/G	6’0”	182	04/27/93	Sherwood Park, Alta./Alb.	Humboldt (SJHL)
Curtis Loik	R/D	6’1”	205	04/23/93	North Vancouver, B.C./C.-B.	Penticton (BCHL)
Brandon Morley	L/G	5’9”	160	04/17/94	Burnaby, B.C./C.-B.	Surrey (BCHL)
Wesley Myron	L/G	6’2”	190	08/16/92	Victoria, B.C./C.-B.	Victoria (BCHL)
Alex Petan	R/D	5’9”	175	05/02/92	Delta, B.C./C.-B.	Coquitlam (BCHL)
Peter Quenneville	R/D	5’11”	185	03/03/94	Edmonton, Alta./Alb.	Sherwood Park (AJHL)
Evan Richardson	R/D	5’8”	170	05/30/94	Nanaimo, B.C./C.-B.	Powell River (BCHL)
Travis St. Denis	L/G	5’7”	150	09/09/92	Trail, B.C./C.-B.	Penticton (BCHL)
Michael Stenerson	L/G	5’10”	165	01/20/93	Surrey, B.C./C.-B.	Surrey (BCHL)
Teagan Waugh	R/D	5’9”	175	04/16/92	Nanaimo, B.C./C.-B.	Powell River (BCHL)
Brent Wold	L/G	5’10”	178	02/01/93	Lac du Bonnet, Man.	Portage (MJHL)

Staff/Personnel
Head Coach / Entraîneur-chef	Kent Lewis	Powell River, B.C./C.-B.	Powell River (BCHL)
Assistant Coach / Entraîneur adjoint	Dean Brockman	St. Benedict, Sask.	Humboldt (SJHL)
Assistant Coach / Entraîneur adjoint	Andrew Milne	St. Albert, Alta./Alb.	Canmore (AJHL)
Equipment Manager/ Responsable d’équipement	Jeff Woods	Brandon, Man.	Flin Flon (MJHL)
Therapist / Thérapeute	Erin Berkowski	Port Coquitlam, B.C./C.-B.	Coquitlam (BCHL)
Manager, Hockey Operations/National Teams / Responsable, Activités hockey/équipes nationales	Shawn Bullock	Wainwright, Alta./Alb.	Hockey Canada

For more information: Riley Wiwchar Manager, Events & Marketing | Responsable, événements

Grizzlies 7 - 4 Caps @ Bear Mtn Arena, Oct 26, 2011

So a measure of revenge was on the radar for the Grizzlies and they got it in a real battle tonight on the Westshore.
A different Grizzlies team from the last time these two teams met; with good chemistry and a battled hardened approach to the game, really put the Caps away in the third period. Cue the 2nd line tonight of Gehl, Moran and Alex Holland who are becoming a real treat to watch and more ice time for the third of Hansen, Godinho and the no holds barred Chase Kasier where big factor in this win tonight.
One line team my ass!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1st Period: Scrappy and certainly not pretty, but, both side would set tone for the game in the first period, as both the Caps and Grizzlies would battle for the puck in all areas of ice.
The Caps would get on the score board first, with the impressive almost to quick for a power forward Matt Grant, who would beat Grizz goalie Jamie Tucker which looked like it took an awkward bounce from an initial shot, before Grant would bury it by Tucker. After action at both ends of the ice, Brad Gehl, who had his best game in a Grizzlies jersey tonight, popped up on the PP and leveled it for the Grizzlies for his first of 4 points on the night
Just before the end of the 1st the Caps would score a PP of there own after some nice work from Brandon Mistral, making it 2-1 to the Duncan outfit.

2nd Period: The Grizzlies, would tie it up in some style after another Murphtastic bullet shot from Wade Murphy, would find the top right hand corner of Caps goalie Derek Dun. The too-ing and fro-ing of the 2nd period would continue when Sannich product Travis Stephens would allow the Caps to regain the lead at 3-2. Now from the mid-way point of the period, the Caps would start to assert themselves, despite being shorthanded on 3 occasions and would be camped out in the Grizzlies end for the better part of 6 to 7 minutes. The Grizzlies, managed to weather the Caps storm and on a  breakaway goal against the run of play, Alex Holland raced down the ice after some nice set up work from Moran and Gehl to it up for the Victoria at 3-3.
At the end of the 2nd the Caps, would find themselves two men down with the Grizzlies on a 5 on 3 going into the start of the third.

3rd Period: The inform Mike Moran, would score a cracking shot on the 5 on 3 hammering the puck passed a helpless Derek Dun, giving the Grizzlies their first lead of the night. Not to be out done, Ladysmith boy, Matt Grant, would have his 2nd of the night after beating Tucker with a laser of a shot that could have made the highlight reel. This would be the last taste of triumph for the Caps on the night, as the Grizzlies would start to take control of the period. The third line of Hansen, Kaiser and Godinho would put together a nicely worked goal which would finish with the speed of Coltyn Hansen scoring the Grizzlies fifth. With things now tilted in the Grizzlies favour, the 2nd line would take care of business to pad the league with two goals, one from Holland and the Grizzlies seventh on a PP effort from Mike Moran for his 2nd goal of the night, added to his already 3 assists. Credit to Moran, Gehl and Alex Holland (born in the U.S.A by Bruce Springsteen, would play from our savvy Grizzlies DJ, Mr. Tom Grainger adding to the atmosphere anytime Holland or Moran, our two Massachusetts lads scored) who looked sharp and there impressive positional play really turned this game around for Victoria.

Game Thoughts Grizzlies:The Grizzlies where in a fight tonight,but, earned there stripes again, for there 7th win in 10 games, to leap frog the Caps into third place(Caps do have a game in hand).
Mike Moran, Alex Holland and Brad Gehl where outstanding tonight and seemed to have created some great chemistry and really outworked the Caps defence in the 1st and 3rd periods. All 3 made a statement tonight that the Grizzlies do have a very effective 2nd line.

Game Thoughts Caps: Cowichan have been one of the more consistent teams in this crazed start to the 2011/12 season. A hard working team, with a scoring touch and some young talent, make this Caps team the most promising squad in the last few years to make a real run at the playoffs in season.

Stand Outs for the Grizz:
Mike Moran - Has nine points in his last two games showing how dominate and how key to the Grizzlies he is this season. Hard to knock of the puck, sees the ice well and can be a real difference maker.
Alex Holland - I was a little unsure of Holland in his first few Grizzles games, as at time he looked a little off the pace at the level. However, Alex in the last 5 games has showed what a dynamic player he is and has really gelled well with his line mates. A hardworker, which has been very apparent with 4 goals in the last two games. Alex Holland has come to the BCHL to play!!!!
Chase Kaiser - May have proven a point to former coach Dale Purinton

Stand Outs for the Caps:
Matt Grant - At 17 seems to play above his years and its no wonder the WHL's Everett Silvertips who hold his rights have been calling on him. Matt, has a great shot, is patient on the puck and uses his size well. Not as mouthy as his brother (former Cap Jordan Grant) and looks to have a good future weather it be in the BCHL or WHL. 
David Gannon - Good pick from the Mike Hammond trade, who is a skilled forward who can put some points up and makes the teammates around him better.


3 Stars of the Game - 1st * Alex Holland   2nd * Mike Moran    3rd * Matt Grant

Attendence: 797 (ummmm)    Shots on goal: Grizz 30 and Caps 34    Powerplay: Grizz 3 for 5 and Caps 1 for 4

Preview: Grizzlies vs Caps @ Bear Mountain Arena, Wednesday, Oct 26th at 7:15pm

The 6-6 Grizzlies take on the 6-4-1 Caps in an important divisional Wednesday night clash.
The Caps who manhandled the Grizzlies in a home and homes series to start off the season, should be expecting to come up against a Victoria side, who are a lot more settled and playing with confidence in the last few weeks.
The Grizzlies who are coming off two good wins over the Rivermen and Chiefs, expect to have Wes Myron back in the line up after checking out some fine NCAA colleges down in the states with Boston University and St.Cloud among them (I believe). Despite the recent improvements in the Grizzlies fortunes, a win against our Battle of the Malahat foes, would prove a point that this team can hang tough with some of the more experienced teams in the Coastal Conference.
The Caps who have just come off an Interior road swing in the form of beating Salmon Arm and Merritt, also came close to defeating the BCHL's early season favorites the Penticton Vees; will be looking to continue that form against the Grizzlies.

Hope to see a good crowd at Bear Mtn Arena on Wednesday night, puck drop at 7:15pm

Tyler Matheson - Playing Pro Hockey

Former Grizzlies favorite and Cowichan Valley Capitals captain, Tyler Matheson, has signed a pro contract with the Central Hockey Leagues(ECHL level), Arizona Sundogs.
The Sundogs who are based out Presscott Valley, Arizona about 2 hours outside of Phoenix, where founded in 2006 and average crowds of around 2,200.
Local boy T-Mat, if you'd followed his Junior Hockey or Lacrosse career know, what a competitor Tyler is and he leaves it all out on the ice for his team and teammates. Matheson, a big solid player who can play either defence or forward has a larger than life personality and I'm sure fans of the Grizzlies and Caps wish him well in his pro-career.
Matheson, made his debut for the Sundogs v Laredo on Oct 22, 2011. I think the Sundogs have just picked up a few fans on the Island with Tyler on the team.

No more RBC cup? - CJHL issues?

A proposed move from the four Western Junior A leagues, the BCHL, AJHL, SJHL and MJHL would see these leagues only, participate in an end of season tournament. This would replace the current CJHL(Canadian Jnr A Governing body),  end of season RBC championship which encompasses every Jnr A league across Canada such as the Ontario's Jnr A leagues - NOJHL, SIJHL, OJHL, Central Hockey League, Quebec's Jnr A League the LHJAAAQ and the Martime's Junior A League the MHL including the above mentioned western leagues.

I myself, would be a strong supporter of a Western Junior A League breakaway championship tournament. The often debated argument, that the Junior A leagues in the West, especially the BCHL and AJHL have a better standard of players and coaching; including much better fan support.
As far as standard of play, travel and fan support the BC/AJ/SJ/MJHL's would just be a better format and tourney.

No disrespect the Ontario Jnr A leagues, in which there are around 60 team in their 4 leagues which have been in operation for a long time. We have also seen some excellent Ontario players apply their craft in the BCHL over the years. But, for overall standard and support in most circles, its regarded as not quite as up to par as the leagues in the West.

The Junior A league in Quebec, has little fan fare or media outlets and very few of their teams ever make it to the RBC finals. To a point, Jnr A hockey in Quebec is a non-event.

The Martimes MHL league, has some solid frachises like Summerside, Weeks, Woodstock, Yarmouth and it would be ashame not to see those teams/league again should a breakaway occur. The MHL is fairly well supported by those communities who have teams.

Here is an article from the Estevan Mercury about the current state of the RBC tournament:

From Estevan Mercury

SJHL eyeing new western championship

October 19, 2011

It has long been rumoured that the SJHL would be part of a new venture taking the four western Junior A hockey leagues out of the RBC Cup and into a new western championship.

The Mercury has obtained a document outlining the strategic plan for such a move, to begin in time for the 2012-13 season.

Phone calls to SJHL president Bill Chow were not returned.

The proposed new format would see the four leagues – the BCHL, AJHL, SJHL and MJHL – governed under the terms of the Junior A Supplement and would allow them to begin their regular season later in September, ending in March.

According to the document, a major reason for the change is to get away from Hockey Canada's overbearing rules for hosting tournaments, which restrict profit for the host community by forcing them to change most or all of their advertising to Hockey Canada sponsors.

The document cites "Hockey Canada exclusivities" and "administrative fees for event management" among the reasons for taking this initiative.

It also stipulates that the leagues would maintain their membership in the CJAHL as well as the World Junior A Challenge and annual prospects game.

It also says that the four western leagues "shall remain open to the principle of a national championship if the dates and format can be worked out."

The schedule proposed in the strategic plan would see the western championship played during the first week in May, with an equal rotation among the four leagues.

The proposed format would also do away with the current regional championships, the ANAVET Cup for Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and the Doyle Cup for Alberta and B.C.

A section of the plan titled "threats" lists possible resistance from Hockey Canada and its sponsors, particularly RBC, and push back from the eastern leagues, as items to consider.

A running theme throughout the strategic plan is putting teams on strong economic standing, with part of the mission statement aimed at "creating economic wealth and team stability."

The proposal includes a plan to hold the inaugural western championship in May 2013 and, within the next two or three years, finalize the rotation for the first four years, through 2016, with the event being hosted by each of the four leagues in that time.

Happy 18th Birthday to Wade Murphy

Happy Birthday to Wade Murphy. Wade picked up another 3 assists tonight and in a week which saw him pick up a scholarship to the excellent Merrimack College, I'm sure it caps a great 18th Birthday indeed.

Grizzlies 7-5 Chilliwack Chiefs

So, the come back kids of Victoria would strike again and this time at the expense of the feisty Chilliwack Chiefs. Even without Wes Myron, the Grizzlies inserted Mike Moran into the top line which would be the difference maker in this game.

1st Period: This would be no defensive battle, as the Grizzlies would get on the board in the first minute when Mike Moran scored the Grizzlies first, with a little help from Murphy and Pernerowski. That lead was to be very short lived, as the Chiefs would dart down the ice quickly and tie it up through Gossard. Now, hopefully you didn't get to the game late, as Moran would score his 2nd goal of the night within 3 minutes(on the PP) after a quality pass from the Flying Dutchman, Ten Vaanholt would allow Mike to cut in to beat a sprawling Bryton Udy in the C'wack goal to make it 2-1 Grizz.
Credit to the Chiefs, as they stuck with their game plan and really broke up the ice quickly catching the Grizz Dmen on there heels a few times. Mike Berry, would level it for the Chiefs at 2-2 during a 4 goal in five minute display. After some sustained Chiefs pressure, on 9 minutes Kit Sitterley would launch a screamer of a shot from just over the blue line to beat Jamie Tucker who was probably well screened. The Chiefs would go in 3-2 ahead at the end of the first.

2nd Period: One opponent that impressed tonight was David Bondra(son of NHLer Peter), his puck movement and skating off the puck was excellent and looked dangerous whenever his first line was out on the ice. Chilliwack would increase their lead through a shorthanded goal after Malcolm Gould dispossessed Sean Robertson, kept his cool and beat Jamie Tucker for a 4-2 lead. The Chiefs run and gun offence, would keep it in gear as David Bondra(PP) scored after nice work again from Gould again. With the Grizz, 5-2 down and having some issues with this pacey/ forechecking, Harvey Smyl Chiefs team, the Grizz owe credit to Lawson and Holland on the 2nd line; who where battling hard all night for the puck and did some good work along the boards.
Now, cue the 5 goal unanswered Victoria comeback. This would start courtesy of powerplay specialist Taylor Pernerowski, who would beat Udy with assists from Mike Moran and Ten Vaanholt(that trade with Penticton for Moran, looking pretty fantastic right about now).Mike Moran would then put the Grizzlies within a goal of the visitors with a PP goal and his hat-trick which included an assist from Wade Murphy, who's speed and prowess caused the Chiefs a lot of issues most of the night including a few turnovers.

3rd Period: The Chiefs who had competed hard all night, looked to be running out of gas in the 3rd. Early period goals from Godinho and the workhorse that is Alex Holland, would put the Grizzlies 6-5 up after a nice break down the wing from Robertson passing nicely to Holland capping another amazing 2011 comeback. The Grizzlies had started to play the Chiefs a little harder in the 3rd, and this really translated into a character win for the Grizz. Holland, who linked up well with Lawson on the 2nd line tonight would add the empty netter to send the Grizzlies faithful home happy.

Game Thoughts Victoria: A real character win, with 5 unanswered goals and a real look at the quality play of Mike Moran. Even at 3 goals down to Chilliwack it didn't seem to phase Victoria too much, as that was another improbable comeback against a good Chilliwack team. Murphy, Ten Vaanholt where bang on form again and Cam Lawson just keeps getting better with each game.
This win vaults the Grizzlies up to 3rd place and we are now at the .500 mark at 6 wins and 6 losses. Wow, those comebacks, are almost becoming trademark.

Game thoughts Chilliwack: The Chiefs played well tonight and with there quick offensive minded team, will be a handful for most BCHL squads this season. Harvey Smyl coached teams, are well organized and entertaining team(some games a little dirty) and up until the third period could have won this tilt tonight. One thing is for sure, the BCHL is lucky to be back in Chilliwack which is a solid Jnr A hockey market, with average crowds of around 2,000 fans a game at the beautiful Prospera place.

Standouts for the Grizzlies:
Mike Moran: Worth every bit of his commitment to Boston University and has really impressed with the Grizzlies since his trade from the Vees. Got his hat-rick and a assist tonight and wasn't afraid to get down and dirty in his own end, to help out the defence.

Wade Murphy: Again oozes confidence and was Murphtastic(sorry Wade) on his 18th Birthday as the Murphinator(sorry again Wade) was quick and fearless all night; turning provider on two of Moran's goals and adding another assist for three on the night.

Cam Lawson: Just does a bit of everything and does it well. Has come into his own in a Grizz uniform so far and has turned into a key contributor.

3rd line of Kaiser, Godinho and Hansen: They didn't have tons of ice time tonight,but, they are effective and dangerous when they break forward or close down opponents in the neutral zone. More ice time for these guys please.

Taylor Pernerowski: You know good things are gonna happen whenever he's out on the PP.

Standouts for C'wack:
Malcolm Gould

David Bondra: Quick, composed on the puck and was the Chiefs best player tonight as he found space and holes in the Grizzlies D, which he exploited to good effect tonight.

3 Stars of the Games

1st *Mike Moran     2nd * Taylor Pernerowski      3rd*Malcolm Gould


Attendance: 1038(getting closer) Shots on goal: Victoria- 22  and Chilliwack 31  Powerplay: Victoria 2 for 6 and Chilliwack 1 for 5

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Grizzlies v Chilliwack Chiefs @ Bear Mtn Arean 7:15pm, Oct 22

                  

Not since Nov 26, 2005 have the Chilliwack version of the Chiefs, visited Bear Mtn Arena. That was  a game that saw Tyler Bozak tie it up in the last minute of regulation.
This version of the Grizzlies who have been talked about as a oneline team latley,but, have won 4 of 5 contests coming into tonight game. My thoughts to the one line team theory is, watch this squad, there's a lot more depth and substance to it. 
After the 7-1 demolition of  Langley on Thursday night, the Grizzlies can expect a tougher test from Harvey Smyl and the Chiefs. Harvey Smyl coached teams like to fore-check and don't sit back in there own end to long.
Another good test for the Grizzlies, but, on current form this should/can be a winable game at home.               

Wade Murphy commits to Merrimack

Big congratulations goes out to Wade Murphy who has commited to NCAA Divison 1, Merrimack College in North Andover, Massachusetts for 2013. The Merrimack Warriors, who's hockey program is known for it's great reputation. After a tough few years, the Warriors finished 9th in the nation with a 22-8-4 record last season, which has really turned this hockey program around. They boast in there ranks ex-Grizzlies captain and favorite Jordan Heywood.
Murphy, after a good rookie season has really come out on fire in the first quarter of this 2011/12 BCHL season. Amassing 10 goals, 11 assists for 21 points so far, Wade should add his offensive talents to the Warriors in 2013 quite nicely.

Grizzlies 7-1 Rivermen

                                               
Clinical, from the finishing, the passing, the PP, the PK and most importantly the 4 forward lines, 6 D-men and the Goalie. The Grizzlies where the total package tonight and a real treat for the home support to watch as the boys hammered the Rivermen 7-1. A team effort tonight and the hard work behind the scenes at practice was very apparent tonight from the Grizzlies

1st Period: The Grizzlies came out of the gate ready for action and piled the pressure on Langley early. Slick passing and great on ice awareness from the ever dangerous first line of Myron, Ten Vaanholt and Murphy really served notice to Langley early on.
 The Grizzlies first goal of the night would come from that man Myron, after some good movement from his two line mates, Myron positioned himself next to Rivermen goalie James Barr and slotted through his legs for Myron's first of three on the night, on the 5 minute mark. Wes's 2nd goal was a thing of beauty; after a nice pass from Murphy, left Myron beating out the defender covering him one on one and then cooly slotting the puck by goalie Barr.
With the all fours lines playing some nice hockey and the Grizzlies defense stopping anything Langley had to offer in the way of an attack. Gehl, Moran and Holland on the 2nd line where chasing every puck and keeping sustained pressure on the R'mens goal.

2nd Period: Would follow the same theme as the first with consistant, attractive hockey and everyone no matter what there ice time was, contributing on every shift. The Grizzlies third goal was an absolute gem on the PP, when Ten Vaanholt after some nice work on the puck, picked out Murphy with a beauty of a pass and Wade made no mistake firing a bullet from the wing which thundered past  Barr into the top left hand corner. With the speed and accuracy of that shot, I can bet you goalie James Barr didn't even see it coming. At this stage, Langley where pretty well "up the river without a paddle" as the Grizzlies played fast and fluid hockey.

3rd period: Saw Myron in the first two minutes deservedly grab his hat trick and Victoria's third after the first lines hard work. Ten Vaanholt and the pride of Port Alberni Jessie Ursic would add the assists.
One line that didn't go unnoticed by the crowd tonight was the 3rd line of Kasier, Godinho and Hansen. The chemistry on this line was very apparent and all 3 players are guys who work hard,grind, crash and bang who are capable of putting some points on the board. Hansen, doesn't stop skating all night, Dante works the wings very well and Kaiser isa  very capable player at either end of the ice. The line would be rewarded by a well worked goal involving all 3 of them, which would finish with Godinho scoring Victoria's 5th.
The Grizzlies would show no let up with Lawson, Perneroski and a couple of timely interventions by Robertson and Bilious at the other end would keep the Grizzlies in control.
Goal number 6 came via Jarryd Ten Vaanholt, tormenting the Rivermen defenders along with Myron and Murphy which would allow him to beat goalie Kruger.
Half way through the period Langley would get on the board as Ryan Bakken would score from distance, to beat Jamie Tucker who had a solid night.
The Grizzlies would cap a great performance as Cam Lawson would beat Langley back up goalie Jim Kruger to round out the scoring.

Grizzlies Stand Outs: Everyone who wore the jersey tonight.
Wes Myron - Showed way NCAA university are clammering to get him to commit thier hockey programs. Confident, clinical and didn't miss a beat all night. 4 points on the night!
Wade Murphy - Gave the Langley defence nightmares tonight. Quick and savvy on the puck as he has been all season. Great chemistry with his line mates and takes his chances well in front of goal. Unstoppable in his current form. 4 points on the night.
Jarryd Ten Vaanholt - Smart hockey player and holds the puck up well for his line mates. Has settled into this team quickly and continues his goal scoring pressence and consistant form in the form of 4 points tonight as well.
Jamie Tucker - Not overly busy tonight, but his positioning and timing where spot on whenever he was called upon tonight.
Chase Kaiser - looked to create chances whenever he was on the ice as his speed and laying a hit on anything in a blue jersey was fun to watch tonight.
Brad Gehl - The big forward was unlucky not to be on the score sheet tonight. Some nice passing and drive throughout the night kept the Grizzlies on the attack whenever he was on shift.
Coltyn Hansen - Great skater, quick and linked up well with Kasier and Godinho tonight. Good positional player and covers the D-men well when one of them jumps up in the play.
Dante Godinho - The former Cowichan man, ran at the Langley d-men often tonight causing havoc with his size and speed.
Sean Robertson - Consistant and didn't give the Rivermen forwards any real oppotunites and closed down his opponents well.
Braxton Bilious - I'm starting to see the confidence grow in him in the last couple of games, with some timely interceptions on one on one sitautions which if he had not handled well, could have been penalties against him.
Nolan De Jong - Not a lot of ice time tonight,but, was steady and held his ground well against the big Langley forwards.
Scott Renner - Determined and gritty display tonight keeping the Langley forward corp in check.
Cam Lawson - Does what ever's asked of him and is starting to get some real fan fare among the Grizz support for his hard work.
Kevin Woodyatt -  This guy can mix up and plays a good game of hockey. Good positional D man and showed it again tonight.
Jesse Ursic -  In Jesse's second year in the league, is looking to be a good fit in the Grizz rear guard and can skate well for a big man.
Taylor Pernerowski- Easily one of the best offensive D-men in the league and was solid at both ends of the ice tonight.
Mike Moran -  Held the puck up well tonight and looked capable of creating something out of nothing when that 2nd line took to the ice.
Alex Holland - Skated hard tonight and linked up well with Gehl and Moran.
Mike Sandor - Nicely worked goal with Lawson for the Grizzlies seventh goal tonight.

Rivermen Stand Outs:
Ryan Bakken - The 20yr old Langley Captain, entering his 4th season in the BCHL. Did his best to shut down the Grizz attack when he could. Big bodied D man played hard tonight and scored from a good shot.
Valik Chichken - Rookie 17 yr old defender was hitting Grizzlies all night and brought the puck nicely out of his own end when given the chance.

Attendance: 748(sure why not) Shots on goal: Victoria- 39  and Langley- 19
 Power Play: Victoria 1 for 3 and Langley 0 for 4

                                                 THANK YOU TO THE PLAYERS

On behalf of a number of the fans, thank you for the stick salute at the end of the game. It got a great reception from the fans and that extra cheer which added to the atmosphere of the win. Nice touch and very classy guys, thank you!!!!

Game Preview - Grizzlies v Rivermen @ Bear Mtn Arena 7:15pm, Oct 20, 2011

Victoria Grizzlies                                         

As the 2011/12 season has that extra bit or urgency as we know, due to only the top 4 teams in each conference making the playoffs. This translates into how consistant a team must be and taking advantge of home ice is a must. This should be something first and foremost on the Grizzlies mind when they take on Langley on Thursday night.
With what looks like a very potent top line and Mike Moran being charged up on the 2nd line, the scoring end of things looks pretty good right now.
 The rest of the team in recent weeks has started to gell and the Grizzlies have lifted themselves off the bottom of the coastal conference.
 Jamie Tucker is starting to get some consistancy going and a run of 3 or 4 games with a little puck luck, will hopefully see Jamie string a few more wins together for the month of October.
Just to add, personally, I'd like to see Scott Renner get a little more ice time. Scott, has the ability to cause the oppostion a lot of problems in the neutral zone with his hitting and harressing of the visiting team which seems to cause some promising turn overs. A player like Renner, will prove to be a valuble asset as the season goes on.
From a fans point of view, I was one who breathed a sigh of relief when the first couple of wins came in(I'm sure the team did a lot more). The fact the Grizzlies are almost back to playing .500 hockey and are back in amongst the Coastal Conference pack, has given the season a kick start. Having a settled squad and basically the same starting line up for the last 4/5 games has certainly helped matters.
I'd still like to see the Grizzlies pick up a Kyle Aschim type D-man, an expeirnaced guy who is more of a steady, reliable defender who can add a little offensive when needed.

Langley Rivermen                                                                                                      

Are in a familier situation to the Grizz, as a team who welcome back only a handfull of players from last season and are currently looking to put a winning formula into place. The Rivermen, who come into the game bottom of the division,but, do have a number of ex Langley Chiefs who are solid BCHL players like Darnell Dyck, Mike Tebbutt, Austin Pleavy, Ryan Bakken and new Floridian forward Mario Puskarich should prove to be a good test for Victoria. They are coached by former Abbotsford Heat Asst Coach Sean O'Rourke and backed by owner Roy Henderson(Global Hockey Camps) along with his brother Bobby Henderson this is a team that is well coached and run.
Attendence is down a fair bit in Langley, which is the same as most teams in the league. However, with one of the best arena's in Jnr hockey, a new Langley-styled identity, new ownership and a municipality of just over 90,000 this should be solid BCHL franchise for years to come.
In addition the World Junior A championship are being held at the Langley Events Centre from
Nov 7-13, this should cause an extra buzz around the Rivermen as well.

Jame Benn's Dallas Stars, NHL goal of the year candidate!!!!!

Former Grizzlie Jamie Benn scored a beauty of a goal for Dallas v's Columbus last night which is already an NHL goal of season candidate. Jamie, takes on 4 Blue Jacket players before sheer determination on Benn's part beats Jackets goalie Chris Mason!!!!

http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Video-Jamie-Benn-8217-s-goal-of-the-year-candi?urn=nhl-wp15189

Grizzlies Top Line In Top Ten

The Grizzlies firepower on it's top line is speaking for itself as far as the scoring stats go in the 2011/12 season.
Wes Myron, Wade Murphy and Jarryd Ten Vaanholt are 6th,7th and 8th respectivley in the BCHL scoring race. This goes to show how hard these players are working and the chemistry thats on that line at the moment.

The leagues 10 top scorers are :
          Name                                Team   Games Played     Goals      Assists     Total Points
  
1. Paul de Jersey                           PG                   9                   14             8                 22
2. Travis St.Denis                         PEN                9                   10             9                 19
3. Jujhar Kharia                            PG                   9                    8             11                19
4. Mario Lucia                              PEN                8                    8             11                19
5. Alex Patan                                COQ               9                    8             10                18
6. Wes Myron                              VIC                10                  4             14                18
7.Wade Murphy                          VIC                10                  9               8                17
8. Jarryd Ten Vaanholt              VIC                9                    6             11                17
9. Mike Colantone                          PG                9                    4              12                16
10. Conner Reilly                          PEN               9                    4              12                16

The top line in 10 games has 52 points between them and that includes Myron leading the league in assists at 14. Credit to the three lads and the rest of the team for stepping it up a gear in the last 10 days or so.
I think you'll feel the excitment when this line comes out for there shifts this season. With the way there banging in the points, Grizzlies fans have a lot to look forward to.

Also a special mention to ex-Grizzlie Mike Colantone now playing for the Prince George Spruce Kings, who's 9th in scoring right now. Mike, looks to be settling in very well in BC's northern capital.