Friday 29 June 2018

Mils kick off Alberta trip with win in Okotoks on Thursday'

With 2,946 fans in the Seaman Stadium stands the Melville Millionaires snapped their four game losing streak with a 5-3 win over the hometown Okotoks Dawgs.


Noah Freimuth was a dual threat for the Money Men as he belted a home run and then pitched a scoreless eighth inning.  Ryan Tackett had three hits, a homerun, three RBI and scored two runs in the Millionaires 7th victory of the year.

Nate Dechaine hit his seventh double of 2018 and picked up his 22nd RBI for Okotoks in the loss.

Melville starter Tyler Ulrish allowed just one run on seven hits and two walks for the win. David Flores earned his second save. Carter Robinson, the freshman from Mesa Junior College took the loss and is now 2-2 in his four starts with the Dawgs.

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This one was over early as the Mavericks scored six runs in the top of the first inning and then strolled to a 15-1 win over Yorkton. 

The Western Division leading Medicine Hat Mavericks now sit with a 18-3 record. The Cardinals are now 4-16 and are on a six game winless streak.

Maverick shortstop Carson Johnson led the hit parade with four singles, two RBI and two runs scored. Colton Wright reached base five times with three hits and two walks. The Surrey, BC native also had three runs and two RBI.

Yorkton right fielder Thirus Jones had two of the Cardinals eight hits.

Jumpei Akanuma, from Kyoto, Japan pitched seven scoreless innings for his fourth win of 2018.

He allowed five hits, two walks but registered  seven strikeouts.  Ryan Thrasher took the loss  for Yorkton.


Other Thursday results:

Weyburn Beavers 12  Brooks Bombers 4

Swift Current 57s 14 
Lethbridge Bulls 7

Regina Red Sox 12 
Moose Jaw Miller Express 1
Edmonton Prospects 2  Fort McMurray Giants 5

Thursday 28 June 2018

Deer Park Golf Report - June 28th edition


                             This weeks "Deer Park Golf Report" with Head Professional Al Sauser

Wednesday 27 June 2018

Whitewood, SK to host 2019 SaskTel Tankard Men's Provincial Curling Championships




The top Saskatchewan men's curling teams from across the province will hit the ice February 6-10, 2019 in Whitewood, SK for the 2019 Sasktel Tankard Men's Provincial Curling Championships.

The SaskTel Tankard will mark the 14th year of the title sponsorship, with 16 men's teams competing for the right to represent Saskatchewan at the 2019 Tim Hortons Brier right next door at the Westoba Credit Union Place in Brandon, Manitoba!

Executive Director, Ashley Howard states "The SaskTel Tankard is one of our premier events, with exceptional arena ice conditions we will be treated to exceptional shot making by the best curlers from around the province. We look forward to watching the community of Whitewood build on the success of their annual 64-team bonspiel to host another successful event!"

The event will not only benefit the town of Whitewood, but many communities here in southeast Saskatchewan! "This is the first large scaled event here in Whitewood, but our town and community has proved through our annual 64-team bonspiel, that we are more than ready to show the curling world what "small town hospitality" is all about," said Chad Kelly, Host Chair of the 2019 Sasktel Tankard. "Whitewood and surrounding communities have a passion and excitement over championship curling, where we are confident and excited that we have the support to host a big time event such as the SaskTel Tankard."

Availability for tickets to the 2019 SaskTel Tankard will be announced at a later date.

(CurlSask Press Release)



GX94's Ryan Young  chats with SaskTel Tankard 2019 Co-Chair Chad Kelly about the announcement

Melville Millionaires Coaches Show - June 27th edition (sponsored by: Prairie Co-op)

No automatic alt text available.

In this weeks "Prairie Co-op" Melville Millionaires Baseball Coaches Show, I am joined by Head Coach Wes Hunt

Tuesday 26 June 2018

Mils trade D Warner (98) to Strathroy


The Melville Millionaires have made a trade with the Strathroy Rockets of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League.

The Moneymen dealt 1998-born defenceman Ryan Warner to the Rockets in exchange for future considerations.

The Victoria, BC product who was acquired before the 2017/18 season from the Trail Smoke Eaters, had 3 goals 5 assists for 8 points in 46 games with the Mils last season

Yorkton products Maier; Korzcak invited to Hockey Canada's Summer Under-18 Camp



Forty-four of the nation’s top under-18 hockey prospects will gather in Calgary at the end of July to compete for a chance to wear the Maple Leaf on home ice as part of Canada’s National Men’s Summer Under-18 Team competing at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in Edmonton and Red Deer this August.

The invitations have been extended to four goaltenders, 14 defencemen, and 26 forwards who are developing in the CHL and CJHL.

Among the players selected it includes a couple of Yorkton products in goaltender Nolan Maier (pictured above left) and defenceman Kaedan Korczak. (pictured above right)

Newly rebranded as the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, the annual tournament is one of the only true, best-on-best competitions for this age group.

While the event is being co-hosted in Edmonton and Red Deer, Canada will play all of its games out of Rogers Place in Edmonton, except for a pre-tournament game against the Czech Republic slated for Aug. 4  in Red Deer.

Yorkton Terriers (SJHL) AGM Recap & Highlights



Just under 70 people were in attendance last night (Mon) at the Gallagher Center as the SJHL's Yorkton Terriers held their Annual General Meeting.

"I thought it was a great night, I was really impressed with the turnout by the folks tonight and the comments that were made, it's obvious there is a passion for the club and there was passionate people here, so I was really pleased", said Terriers Vice-President Al Sharp, who headed up the meeting.

During the meeting, Terriers Treasurer Gerry Smysniuk announced that the Terriers had a profit of $13,408 from the 2017/18 season, which is a little down from the $13,939 profit from a year ago.

Smysniuk says it's always nice to earn a profit but there is still some work to do to keep improving that total.

"Ultimately the positive thing is we did make a little bit of money, but we didn't make a whole lot of money to build up any equity and so that would be the teams focus for the future, is build up some equity for the organization"

Also at the meeting, the 10 person Yorkton Terriers 2018/19 Board of Directors was elected:

They include:

Alan Sharp (2nd year of 2-year term)
Curtis Maleschuk (2nd year of 2-year term)
John Anderson (Returns to board)
Blaine Buckle (Returns to board)
Pat Holtkamp (Returns to board)
Corvyn Neufeld (Returns to board)


Newcomers to the Board:

Chad Holinaty
Kerri Kawchuk
Chris Kosteroski
Kurt Karcha


Sharp adds now with the board in place, they are looking forward at some goals heading into the 2018/19 season.

"I look at a couple of things, putting a quality product on the ice is the number 1 thing, and I'll leave that in the hands of Mat and his stuff and the 2nd thing is to continue to build the structure for the board and continue through the strategic planning process to meet our ultimate goal of the entire organization"

Sharp also that there will be getting together in the next few weeks as a board and then from there a new executive will be determined.


Meanwhile on the Hockey Operations side, Terriers Head Coach/GM Mat Hehr announced a couple changes to his staff personnel:

-Goaltending Coach Zack Rakochy will now also be one of the teams Asst. Coaches

- Scott Musqua and Karsten Wagner will both return to the Coaching Staff as Asst. Coaches

- Asst. General Manager Ron Holloway has now been named Director of Player Personnel

-Terriers Scouting Staff now sits at 6


========================================================================

Terriers Vice President Al Sharp on the meeting, the team goals, new board and more..




Terriers Treasauer discusses the financial report that was presented at Monday's meeting




Terriers Head Coach/GM Mat Hehr talks about meeting, little changes to staff personnel and the off-season thus far.

Monday 25 June 2018

Monday's Local Sports

Riot captures 2nd straight WWCFL Title

The Regina Riot capped off their perfect season with a 14-10 victory over the Saskatoon
Valkyries  on Sunday in the championship game of the Western Women's Canadian Football League.

Mallory Starkey had both touchdowns on the ground for the Riot in the win.

The Riot also featured some players with ties to our local area including: Kyla Krenbrink (Wolseley), Halyna Ignatiuk (Ituna), Katherine Cabylis (Melville), Telisa McGonigal (Moosomin), Kristi Jakubowski (Grayson), Ashleigh Henrion (Roblin MB), and Rachelle Smith  (Abernathy),



2018 NHL Draft takes place in DallasThe 2018 National Hockey League Draft was held this past weekend in Dallas, Texas. 


There were a couple local players selected including The Pas, Manitoba's Connor Dewar who went in the 3rd round, 92nd overall to the Minnesota Wild.

Dewar had 38 goals, 30 assists for 68 points in 68 games this past season with Everett Silvertips (WHL)

Meanwhile in the 6th round, 168th overall Foxwarren  MB's Dawson Barteaux was selected by the Dallas Stars.  


Barteaux who suited up with the Red Deer Rebels had 32 points in 64 games.

Friday 22 June 2018

Yorkton Terriers (SJHL) announce signing of Blight for 2018/19 season



The Yorkton Terriers are excited to announced they have signed forward Jaxon Blight for the upcoming SJHL season.

Blight played the past 2 seasons with the Central Plains Capitals Midget AAA in Manitoba and this past season he compiled 19 goals, 36 assists for 55 points in 48 games.

Melville Millionaires make change to their Season Ticket Plan for 2018/19 Season; Hartwick joins team as new Athletic Therpaist/Equipment



The Mils have announced a change to their Season Ticket plans for the 2018-2019 season. 

New this year, season tickets will be available permanently for the early bird pricing!

Those who purchase their season ticket before August 18, 2018  will have the chance to win the cost of your Season Ticket back!  Also tickets will be delivered in late August and early September by current Millionaire players.

Tickets are available for purchase at Future Ford from Bunker Hill Monday-Saturday from 8 am to 6 pm

Pricing

ADULT - $315 (GST Incl) $11.25/game

STUDENT - $185 (GST Incl) $6.60/game

* Buy a student season ticket for CHILD at same price

Gate prices: (as comparison)

ADULTS - $15 x 28 games = $420 - savings of $105 with season ticket

STUDENTS - $9 x 28 games = $252 - savings of $67 with season ticket

CHILD - $7 x 28 games = $196 - savings of $11 with season ticket

With Season ticket purchase, your seat is RESERVED for all Regular Season games. During Playoff games you will have until 11:00am on game day to purchase your ticket and retain the seat you had during the regular season.

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Mils hire Hartwick as new Athletic Therapist/Equipment


The Melville Millionaires have hired Zach Hartwick as the Athletic Therapist and Equipment Manager for the upcoming season. 

Zach joins this Mils after recently graduating from Sheridan College with a degree in Athletic Therapy.

During his time at school he was a student Athletic Therapist for several teams including the University of Guelph Men's Hockey team and the Oakville Midget AAA Rangers.



Celebrity Sports Dinner and Auction set for July 7th in Swan River

Media preview

I caught up with one of the organizers of in Murray Mullin to chat about the event:

Thursday 21 June 2018

Deer Park Golf Report - June 21st edition


                             This weeks "Deer Park Golf Report" with Head Professional Al Sauser

Broncos' Darcy Haugan honoured at the NHL Awards




Humboldt Broncos Head Coach/GM Darcy Haugan won the inaugural Willie O'Ree Community Hero Award, presented to the person who best utilizes hockey as a platform for participants to build character and develop important life skills for a more positive family experience, at the 2018 NHL Awards in Las Vegas on Wednesday.

The 42 year old was one of 16 people killed when the bus carrying the SJHL team to a playoff game was involved in an accident near Nipawin on April 6.


The award brings awareness to anonymous and uplifting stories of community, making it strong by using hockey as platform. Haugan did that by building young leaders and died doing what he loved, surrounded by the young people to whom he dedicated his life.

Haugan's wife Christina accepted the award and gave a very touching speech.

Stampeders' Navrot commits to the Minot State Beavers




The Swan Valley Stampeders are proud to announce that Forward Connor Navrot has committed to play ACHA Division I hockey with the Minot State Beavers.

Connor Navrot came to the Stampeders in late 2016 after making stops with the Kindersley Klippers (SJHL) and the Battlefords North Stars (SJHL).  Navrot who hails from Martensville Saskatchewan was a leader both on and off the ice who was well connected to his teammates. He fit in as soon as he got to the Swan Valley and soon after became a leader wearing the Stampeders crest.

The 6’3” 180lbs Forward has played in 167 games scoring 41 goals and adding 71 assists in his Junior A career.

“We are extremely excited to get a player with the talent as Connor,” said Wade Regier Head Coach of The Minot State Beavers. “Anytime you can get a recruit who averaged over a point a game, it is big. Connor is a highly offensive player who has great vision when he steps on the ice. If he uses his size to his advantage, he can be an elite player in the ACHA. With the loss of so many players up front to graduation, adding a player like Connor helps expedite our reloading process. We have a great history of recruiting high end talent from the MJHL and look forward to having Connor in our lineup on a nightly basis.”

“Connor had the size and vision to generate high quality scoring chances every time he stepped on the ice,” said Head Coach and General Manager Taurean White. “He lead by example both on and off the ice and was a strong competitor for our organization. I want to wish Connor nothing but success as he continues his hockey career in Minot.”

The Swan Valley Stampeders Head Coach and General Manager Taurean White provides a very positive atmosphere in Swan River, which allows his players to stay committed and focused on obtaining their long term goals of making it to the next level.

The entire Swan Valley Stampeder Organization would like to congratulate Connor Navrot on his recent commitment to play ACHA Division I hockey with the Minot State Beavers.

(Stamps Press Release)

Wednesday 20 June 2018

Locals named to Hockey Manitoba's Male & Female POE Summer Rosters

Following a busy and exciting Spring, Hockey Manitoba are very excited to release Summer camp rosters for our three teams in the 2018-19 Program of Excellence. The selections for each programs Summer camp roster were made following the conclusion of the Top-40 camps which took place in early May in Portage la Prairie. Each program includes a wealth of talent and skill level that has both coaches and players very excited about the upcoming possibilities in 2018-19.


Our Male U16 program move into the Summer with a roster of 29 athletes (3 G, 9 D and 17 F) that includes 21 players selected in the 2018 WHL Bantam Draft, 3 of which were selected in the First Round.  The breakdown of the roster features 14 athletes from rural bantam AAA, 5 from Winnipeg bantam AAA and 10 from sport school programs. The U16 team will now look towards an August Camp in Winnipeg at the Bell MTS Iceplex August 16-18, 2018 before heading to Shattuck St. Mary’s for an exhibition tournament in December of 2018.


Locals named:

G Keaton Ziprick (Russell MB)

D Aidan Brook (Roblin MB)

D Cole Assailly (Swan Valley Stampeders prospect)

F Colby Wotton (Foxwarren MB & Wayway Wolverines prospect)

F Conor Geekie (Strathclair MB)

F Grady Lane (Virden MB)

F Wyatt Tweet (Russell MB & Wayway Wolverines prospect)

Head Coach- Garth Mitchell (Elkhorn MB)

For full roster click below:
Male U16 Summer Camp Roster 


After an expanded Top-40 camp with 48 athletes, the Female U18 program has narrowed down to a list of 27 going into the Summer. This roster includes seven returning athletes from the U18 Team Manitoba who competed in the U18 National Championship in Quebec City in 2017. The Summer roster features 11 athletes from the MFMHL and 18 athletes from various sport school programs. The U18 team will focus on off-ice fitness with a Strength and Conditioning Camp July 11-12 in Winnipeg before an exhibition tournament with the University of Manitoba, University of Regina and U18 Team Saskatchewan in September 2018.

Locals named:

D Kaila Powell (Swan River MB)

F McKiya Mazur (Angusville MB)

For full roster click below:
Female U18 Summer Camp Roster


Both the Male U16 Team Manitoba and Female U18 Team Manitoba will be competing in the 2019 Canada Winter Games in Red Deer, Alberta in February. The Canada Winter Games are a multi-sport games that take place every four years. Team Manitoba will be looking to improve on their finishes from 2015 in Prince George that saw the Male U16 program finish with a bronze medal and the Female U18 program finish in 5th place.

The Female U16 Program continues in its second year with a Summer roster of 27 who have been selected after successful Spring and Top-40 camps. This roster includes four returning athletes from the 2017 Female U16 Team Manitoba. The Summer roster includes 13 athletes from Winnipeg bantam AA, 9 athletes from rural bantam AAA, 4 athletes from the MFMHL and 1 athlete from a sport school program. The Female U16 team will now move into a Summer Selection camp in Winnipeg July 6-8 where they will make their final roster selections leading into the Swift Current Midget AAA tournament in early September 2018.

Local named:
F Levi Derkatch (Russell MB)

For full roster click below:
Female U16 Summer Camp Roster

Millionaires; Cardinals hit win column in Tuesday's WMBL Recap

                                           

With their 6-5 victory, the Melville Millionaires became giant killers as they handed the Weyburn Beavers their first loss of the 2018 season.

Melville got a great plate performance from Ryan Tackett who smacked a three-run homer to give the Millionaires a 4 -0 in the third inning.

The Money Men increased their lead to 6-1 after seven before Weyburn made it close with a four run eighth inning.

One of the bright spots for the Beavers was Corey Wheaton. The outfielder from the University of Mobile had three hits including a homer for Weyburn.

Melville starter Tyler Ulrich (pictured above) allowed four hits and a run over seven innings of work. Ulrich also struck out seven in securing his first victory of the year.

The Mils and Beavers will meet in the annual "Kiddies Game" on Wednesday at Pirie Field. First pitch is at 11:05AM


Mils Coaches Show/Post Game with Head Coach West Hunt




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The Yorkton Cardinals overcame a 4-0 deficit to beat Swift Current 8-6.

The loss snapped the 57s four game winning streak.


Saskatoon born Jered Binsfield led the Swift Current offensive charge with two hits including a triple. Binsfield also walked and scored two runs.

Dillon Champagne homered, walked twice and scored two runs for Yorkton.

Swift Current, now 7-9 used four pitchers while the 4-10 Yorkton Cardinals sent five pitchers to the mound.

The Cardinals will have the day off on Wednesday before hosting the Regina Red Sox at Jubilee Park on Thursday night


Other Tuesday Results: 

Okotoks Dawgs 3  Lethbridge Bulls 4


Brooks Bombers 4  Regina Red Sox 8
Medicine Hat Mavericks 5 
Fort McMurray Giants 2

Tuesday 19 June 2018

Big Track/Football Field Project in the works for Esterhazy!

                       Media preview

For more information contact Tyler at 306-745-7743 or you can drop off donations for the project at the Esterhazy High School or by calling 306-745-6618

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Chat with Esterhazy Warriors Head Coach and Project Chair Tyler Metz about the BBQ and the project

Mils win; Cardinals lose in Monday's WMBL Recap

In Melville,

A seven run fifth inning helped the Melville Millionaires end their nine-game losing streak as they defeated the visiting Moose Jaw Miller Express 11-6.

Kole Kaler from Queen Creek Arizona had three hits, two RBI and scored two runs to end the Millionaires drought. Cuesta College’s Nik Pagan added to the Melville offence with two hits, two runs scored, three walks and three RBI.

The Miller Express highlights included home runs from Alex Hendra-Brown and John Raybourn.

Moose Jaw starter Markus Gregson dropped to 1-1 with the loss while Lyle Hibbitts added his second win of the season for the Money Men.


In Yorkton,

The Swift Current 57s continues their winning ways with a 12-1 thumping of the Yorkton Cardinals at Jubilee Park. With the victory, the 57s improved to 7-8 while the loss dropped the Cardinals to 3-10.

Swift Current starter Tommy Steier went five innings allowing just one earned run on five hits and two walks. The University of Nebraska at Omaha product also had seven strikeouts before handing the ball to Brock Gilliam who pitched three perfect innings. Cade Burdett came out in the ninth to close out the game.

Wryland McKnight had a decent outing for the Cards allowing one run on four hits. The bullpen struggled against the 57 hitters, as five relievers were tagged 11 runs on eight hits.

Left Fielder Alex Orenczuk led the Swift Current offence with three hits including a home run and four RBI. Dillon Champagne, the lone Cardinal offensive threat, had two hits and an RBI for Yorkton


Other Monday Results:
Medicine Hat Mavericks 5  Edmonton Prospects 8
Regina Red Sox 4  Weyburn Beavers 5


Monday 18 June 2018

Catching up with Yorkton Terriers alumni and ECHL champion Chase Norrish



It was a pretty successful end to the 2018/19 hockey season for former Yorkton Terrier defenceman Chase Norrish.

Norrish, along with his twin brother & fellow Terrier alumni Brady finished off their 4 year NCAA tenure with the Rochester Institute Technology Tigers

"It's been long. but it's always been enjoyable, it was a massive sigh of relief and enjoyment when me and Brady graduated college and had a pretty good four years at RIT and then I was excited to join the Colorado Eagles and finish off a pretty good year", Norrish added in a interview last week.

The Strongfield, SK product played in 128 career games at RIT, compiling 19 goals, 48 assists for 67 points and he says there are definitely some moments that stand out.

"Definitely our first and 2nd championships we won, but especially in our freshman year where we might have been a little bit of the underdogs that year and to do something like that was pretty special"

After his NCAA hockey career came to an end, Norrish joined the East Coast Hockey League's Colorado Eagles and he suited up in 20 regular season/playoff games combined with the Eagles scoring 6 points

He also helped them capture their 2nd straight Kelly Cup East Coast Hockey League Championship with a 7 game series victory over the Florida Everblades.

"I know when I signed with them that they were successful in the past and I knew they were having a good year but I never thought I'd be winning a ECHL championship in my first season over there and I was just fortunate to join another great organization",

Norrish that he and his brother Brady wouldn't be where they are today without their time spent in Yorkton as members of the SJHL's Yorkton Terriers.

"Yorkton's always going to have a huge part of my life, they were 3 of the best years of my life and it's just a nice place to come back to see my old faces and just reflect on how it shape my life, both one and off the ice"

Norrish played in over 200 games in a Terrier uniform from 2011-14, helping them win 2 SJHL Canalta Cup titles, a Western Canada Cup and the franchise's first RBC Cup National Championship in 2014.

Chase concluded that him and Brady have some options they are considering but haven't determined where and who they'll be playing pro hockey


_______________________________________________________________________________

Norrish on the 2017/18 season



Norrish reflects on his time with the RIT Tigers and the memories that stand out from there




Norrish on choosing the Junior A and NCAA Hockey route




Norrish on the adjustment and jump to pro hockey with the Colorado Eagles



Norrish on capturing the ECHL Kelly Cup championship



Norrish on his time in Yorkton and playing with the Terriers



Norrish on what next season holds for him and twin brother Brady 

Cards take latest Highway 10 WMBL battle on Father's Day Sunday

Harrison Grow made a great first impression on the 200 Cardinal fans in his WMBL debut at Jubilee Park.

The freshman from Lane Community College turned in a five hit, one run performance in his first start. He also had four strikeouts in the Yorkton win.


Melville’s starter Zach Diaz was the losing pitcher allowing four runs and nine hits over 6.2 innings.

Millionaire outfielder Chandler Hughes was a bright spot in the lineup contributing two doubles and two runs.  Jared McDonald, the Arizona product, has two hits including a double and two RBI in his first game with the Cardinals.

Yorkton improved to 3-9, while Melville has lost nine consecutive games and currently sit with a 3-10 record.


Other Sunday results:


Lethbridge Bulls 9 @ Edmonton Prospects 4


Fort McMurray Giants 2 @ Medicine Hat Mavericks 15
Brooks Bombers 6 @ Okotoks Dawgs 7


Regina Red Sox 4 @ Moose Jaw Miller Express 0

WMBL is Proud to Announce: The Rebranding of Our League AND An All Star Game for 2019 & 2020 In Edmonton

EDMONTON, AB – The WMBL is excited to announce the rebranding of the League. Starting at the beginning of the 2019 season the new name will be: Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL). 
With roots tracing back to 1931, the WMBL Board of Governors voted early this May to decide the change. After 87 years of operating under various models and names, the new brand will represent a celebration of that which binds the League together.

The WMBL feels that now is the time to change, as we continue to be part of this country’s growing baseball image. As more college players look for strong competitive leagues in which to play over their summers, we feel that this new title will better reflect our Canadian identity in order to better interest players to come and experience our League & our nation. Placing the country’s name directly in the new league title hopes to bring additional recognition to Canadian baseball as a whole.

WMBL President Kevin Kvame had this to say about the change, “We are excited about the new name, in that it will highlight the fact that the League’s footprint lies entirely in Canada. We are a baseball showcase for Canada and are proud to bring in fans and players to celebrate our beautiful country. Being in Canada gives us a unique advantage to provide great experiences to not only our homegrown talent, but visiting players as well. The same applies for the fans and community sponsors of the League”

The new logo proudly shows the Maple Leaf with a projecting baseball along with the words “Western Canadian Baseball League” in sports themed font.

In a second major announcement, the WCBL will be reintroducing their League-wide All-Star Game, to be held in Edmonton, Alberta in 2019, then again in 2020. The 2019 All-Star Game will be held on the evening of Monday, July 8 - the day prior to the 2019 MLB All Star Game.

“The League is thrilled that Pat [Cassidy] and the Edmonton Prospects are committed to putting on a showcase for the League’s wealth of talent. We expect Edmonton, like it has done for so many events over the years, to fully embrace the opportunity of hosting this event in 2019 & 2020,” commented Kvame.

The League and the Prospects are currently working on the format, timing, additional activities, and logistics for the 2019 All-Star Game and expect to release these details publicly in the coming weeks.

The Edmonton Prospects team owner and managing partner Pat Cassidy stated, “I can’t describe how thrilled we are that they’ve adopted our proposal to bring the WCBL All-Star Game to the great sports city of Edmonton in 2019 & 2020. We know that our fans and baseball community will join with many new fans to make this a must-attend event in Alberta’s capital.”

Now with two strong divisions in the WMBL, another goal is that the rebranding and All-Star Games could potentially bring greater interest to other cities for the purposes of League expansion.

(WMBL Press Release)

Friday 15 June 2018

ND Hounds (SJHL) announce their new Head Coach/GM



The College is excited to announce Phil Roy as our new Head Coach/GM for our Jr. A Hounds. 
 
Phil brings with him 13 years of coaching, recruiting and administrative experience.  Most recently, Phil was the assistant hockey coach for the Clarkson University Golden Knights an NCAA Div.1 program, since 2011. Prior to Clarkson University, Phil coached at Merrimak College, Neumann College and Hobart College, all within the NCAA Ranks. This past season he assisted Clarkson University to one of their most successful seasons in the past 10 years. Finishing 3rd in the league, making the NCAA Final 16, producing the 4th best power play in the NCAA, excelling to a 12th place national ranking all season and skating to a 23-11-6 overall record. During his seven-year tenure at Clarkson, Phil recruited five NHL Draft picks to the Knights' program, two All Americans, three players on the All-Rookie team and seven ECAC All Stars selections.  In addition, Phil brought three players to Clarkson who signed professional contracts. Currently Phil, holds his USA Hockey Coaching Certificate- Level 4 and his NCCP Coaching Certificate with Hockey Canada.
 
A St. Leonard, Quebec native, Phil graduated from Clarkson in May of 2000 with an undergraduate degree in technical communications, Phil spent five years playing professional hockey in North America and Europe. He served as an assistant captain and assistant coach for the Diables Noirs de Tours in the France Elite League, where he led the league in scoring by a defenseman. He was also an assistant coach and a captain in the United Kingdom Elite League with the Basingstoke Bison. Prior to his European career, Phil played for the Johnstown Chiefs and Augusta Lynx of the East Coast Hockey League and for the St. John Flames and Cleveland Barons of the American Hockey League. He was named team Rookie of the Year by the Muskegon Fury and was selected to the UHL All-Rookie Team in 2000-01.

(Hounds Press Release)

Mils blow late lead to drop 6th straight in Swift Current in Thursdays WMBL Recap

After the start of this game was delayed by weather it was only fitting that it went into extra innings.

With the bases loaded in the bottom of the 10th inning, 57s shortstop Ethan Hunter was hit by a pitch and that brought Jered Binsfield home for the 5-4 Swift Current win.

Melville catcher Justin Braziel had his best day as a Millionaire. The product of Friends University had four hits including his second home run of the season and three RBI in a losing cause.

The two teams will meet once again in Swift Current on Friday.


Other Thursday Games:
Yorkton Cardinals @ Regina Red Sox (PPD -rained out)
Fort McMurray Giants 21@ Moose Jaw Miller Express 7
Okotoks Dawgs 3 @ Medicine Hat Mavericks 8
Brooks Bombers 3 @ Lethbridge Bulls 4

Thursday 14 June 2018

2018/19 MJHL Schedule has been released

The MJHL opens its 60-game regular season on Friday, September 21 with eight of 11 teams in action. 
Defending MJHL champions Steinbach Pistons will open their regular season on Friday at home against Waywayseecappo Wolverines.  Teams will play a balanced schedule ─ three games at home/three games on the road against each opponent. The regular season ends on March 3, 2019.
Moving into the playoffs, a total of eight teams will make the post-season, with the first round consisting of four, best-of-seven series. The winner of the final championship series will be awarded the Turnbull Trophy as league champion

Swan Valley Stampeders
Season Opener- 
Fri. Sept 21st @ OCN Blizzard (7PM MB time) 

Home Opener- 
Sat. Sept 22nd vs. OCN Bizzard (7:30PM MB time) 

Waywayseecappo Wolverines
Season Opener-
Fri. Sept 21st @ Steinbach Pistons (7:30PM MB time)

Home Opener- 
Sun. Sept 23rd vs. Selkirk Steelers (4PM MB time) 

Deer Park Golf Report - June 14th edition


                             This weeks "Deer Park Golf Report" with Head Professional Al Sauser

Morden named new President of the Swan Valley Stampeders (MJHL) at Wednesday's AGM



The MJHL's Swan Valley Stampeders held their annual general meeting on Wednesday night at the Westwood Inn in Swan River.

At last nights (Wed) meeting, it was announced that Pat Morden will return for his 2nd stint as President of the hockey club.

"I'm honoured too, it's kind of what's old is new again as I was previously President in the earlier days of the franchise, but given the timing of my life right now it worked out good, and I'm eager to come in and start working again", Morden said in a phone interview on Thursday morning.

Morden also says that Wednesday's AGM was good one and the team announced a profit of just shy of 16-thousand dollars from the 2017/18 season.

"I think the mood was good and anytime you can report a positive bottom-line, that's kinda what you shoot for at the start of the year when you do your budgeting"

Morden also added that along with himself, they is also two more newer board members in former Stamps governor Warren Clark (new Vice President) and Brian Gilroy.

They join 5 board members in Rod Pidskalny, Trevor Warburton, Kim Kosokowsky, Jarett Mosiondz and Cramer Coulthart who will return to the board for another season.



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Catching up with new Stamps President Pat Morden:


Morden on becoming President once again:




Morden on importance of experience & fundraising



Morden on meeting, 2017/18 profit




Morden on expectations heading into 2018/19 including celebrating teams 20th anniversary

Melville Millionaires (SJHL) looking for an Assistant Coach



The Melville Millionaires Jr. A Hockey Club of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League are accepting applications for the position of Assistant Coach.

This is a full time, seasonal position.

The successful applicant must have excellent communication and organization skills as well as be able to work both independently and in a team environment.

Responsibilities/Duties for this position include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Assist head coach in preparing and delivering daily practice plans both on-ice and off-ice
  • Assist in the overall operations of the team
  • Lead try-out camps recruiting effort and make sure they are well ran and organized
  • Mentor and develop leadership skills among the players
  • Assist in video breakdown for team sessions, individual player sessions & player promotion
  • Assist in game day operations
  • Attend all practices and games both home and road
  • Assist in maintaining equipment and inventory
  • Attend player meetings and video sessions throughout the year
  • Assist in team and individual player goal setting
  • Statistical tracking and analysis
  • Participate in community outreach
  • Other tasks as they arrive

Desired Qualifications:
  • Playing experience at the Junior and or Pro levels
  • Coaching experience at Major Midget or higher
  • Respect in Sport
  • Development I/II and or High Performance I
  • Familiar with Gamebreaker
  • First Aid and CPR
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications, including Excel, Word and Outlook or Mac equivalents

To apply, please forward a cover letter and resume to Head Coach/GM Devin Windle at melvillemills@sasktel.net

Sincerely,

Devin Windle
Head Coach/GM
Melville Millionaires

c 306-730-6457
o 306-728-2363

Wednesday 13 June 2018

Melville Millionaires Coaches Show - June 13th edition (sponsored by: Prairie Co-op)

No automatic alt text available.

In this weeks "Prairie Co-op" Melville Millionaires Baseball Coaches Show, Head Coach Wes Hunt recaps the teams first 9 games of the season, and previews Thursday's road match-up in Swift Current

Melville Millionaires (SJHL) 2018 Annual General Meeting Recap



The SJHL's Melville Millionaires held their annual general meeting in the Horizon Credit Union Center Boardroom last night (Tues).

The team announced after earning a slight profit from the 2016/17 season, that they suffered a deficit of $17,605 dollars from the 2017/18 campaign.

Dwayne Kraft, who was acclaimed at the meeting as President of the hockey club for a 2nd straight year, says one of the bigger reasons for the loss was they didn't have their Agri-Fund project in place last year.

"We knew when we lost it last year, that it was something that was going to be big deficit to us and we did see that in the numbers and getting it back for this year was very important, our volunteers and board worked very hard to set it up & we are looking forward to see it reap benefits for us this year", Kraft said in a interview after the AGM.

Kraft said he learned a lot in his first year as President of the Mils and he will be looking build on what they did in 2017/18.

"Hope to build off with how we ended last year, I think Devin and his staff were starting to build something on the ice towards the end of the year and I hope they can keep the momentum going and I hope I can give him the tools to put a good product on the ice this season"


President:
Dwayne Kraft

Past President:
Dawn Melnychuk

1st Vice-President:
Tammy Stevenson

2nd Vice-President:
Renee Waldbauer

Treasurer/Secretary:
Charlotte Poier





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I caught up with Mils President Dwayne Kraft after the meeting:


Kraft on returning as team President for a 2nd year




Kraft on what he learnt in his 1st year as President




Kraft on the improvements the club is looking to make heading into the new season.



Kraft on the 2017/18 deficit and Agri-Fund project.



Kraft on some of their fundraising projects for the upcoming year.




Kraft talked about the 2018/19 Season Tickets and the Offseason

Cardinals hammer Mils in Tuesday's WMBL Recap

The Yorkton Cardinals are now on a two-game winning streak as they blasted Melville 15-2.

The Cardinals, who started the season with eight straight losses, exploded for six runs in both the second and third innings on their way to scoring a season high 15 runs.


Yorkton’s Clyde Yeh had a very good night at the plate registering three hits including his first homer of the season, two runs scored and four RBI.

Owen Steele, Yorkton’s starting pitcher, held Melville batters to one run and four hits over seven innings. Steele also reduced his ERA to 0.44 in three games.

The Cardinals and Mils both have the day off on Wednesday. Both teams will head on the road on Thursday as Yorkton will be in Regina and Melville visits Swift Current.


Other Results:

Moose Jaw Miller Express 10 @ Regina Red Sox 4

Okotoks Dawgs 9 @ Swift Current 57s 7

Edmonton Prospects 4 @ Brooks Bombers 9
Medicine Hat Mavericks 9 @ Lethbridge Bulls 7

Fort McMurray Giants 1 @ Weyburn Beavers 2

Tuesday 12 June 2018

Terrier alumni C. Norrish captures ECHL's Kelly Cup Championship

After wrapping up his Senior season with the RIT Tigers (NCAA), former Yorkton Terrier Chase Norrish made the jump to the ECHL’s Colorado Eagles and hoisted the Kelly Cup as a league champion on Saturday in Florida.

The Eagles captured their second consecutive ECHL title, defeating the Florida Everblades by a score of 3-2 in Game 7 of the ECHL Championship Series.

Norrish, a Strongfield SK product had 1G 5A for 6 points in 20 reg.season & playoff games with the Eagles this season.

He had 67 points in 128 games during his 4 year career with the Rochester Institute Technology Tigers.

Norrish played with the Yorkton Terriers from 2011 to 2014 and helped them win 2 SJHL Titles, 1 Western Canada Cup and the 2014 RBC Cup National Championship.

North Stars name Klimosko as their new Head Coach/GM



The Battlefords North Stars are proud to announce the new Head Coach and General Manager for the 2018-19 Season, Brayden Klimosko.

Klimosko comes to the Battlefords having played in the SJHL with the Humboldt Broncos for 3 seasons (2006-2008). In 2007 and 2008 Klimosko was apart of the League Championship team as well as the Anavet and National Championships in 2008 with the Broncos.

Klimosko began his coaching career in his hometown with the Humboldt Broncos as an Assistant Coach/Assistant GM from 2013 – 2017. He was also the Marketing Manager for the Broncos during his time with them.

Most recently Klimosko was the Assistant Coach with the Drumheller Dragons in the AJHL where they had a successful 2017-18 season.

The Battlefords North Stars Hockey Club along with our fans and community members are excited to have Brayden apart of our franchise and look forward to the 2018-19 Season!

(North Stars Press Release)

Cardinals pick up first W of the season with Monday win over Melville



The Yorkton Cardinals picked up their first win of the season by hammering the Melville Millionaires 11-5 at Jubilee Park.

With the loss Melville is now on a four game losing skid and had their record drop to 3-5 on the season.

Ryne Niemi led the Cardinal attack with three hits, two runs scored and four RBIs.

Melville starter Zach Diaz pitched three innings and took the loss.  Chris Cook came out of the bullpen in the fourth inning to get the win for Yorkton.

The two teams will once again meet tonight at 7:05 from Pirie Field in Melville.


Other Monday Results:
Fort McMurray Giants 9  Swift Current 57's 6
Weyburn Beavers 12 Regina Red Sox 6
Brooks Bombers  2 Medicine Hat Mavericks 5

Monday 11 June 2018

Humboldt Broncos SJHL Dispersal Draft Results




The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League and the board of governors have voted unanimously to supply the Humboldt Broncos with players for the upcoming season through a dispersal draft.

From the results of the draft, the Broncos selected F Ethan Kopycyzn (pictured above right) from the Melville Millionaires and defenceman Kyle Sargent (pictured above left) from the Yorkton Terriers.

Kopyczyn, who hails from Sherwood Park, AB had 7 goals, 23 assists for 30 points in 57 games with the Millionaires this past season.

Meanwhile Sargent, a Carlyle product just completed his 1st season with the Terriers where compiled 3 goals, 10 assists for 13 points in 42 games.

On April 6, the Humboldt Broncos team bus was travelling to Nipawin for a playoff game when it collided with a semi-truck. Sixteen people – including 10 players – were killed in the crash. Thirteen others were injured.


Full results from SJHL Dispersal draft below:


Battleford North Stars - Connor Smith

Estevan Bruins – arrangement for player selection to be made in the future

Flin Flon Bombers – Flin Flon received exemption by Humboldt

Kindersley Klippers - Bryson Cecconi

La Ronge Ice Wolves - Shane Hounsell

Melfort Mustangs - Eric McNeilly and Ayden Third

Melville Millionaires - Ethan Kopyczyn

Notre Dame Hounds - Ahmed Ally

Nipawin Hawks - Austin Mikesch

Weyburn Red Wings - Jessie Young

Yorkton Terriers - Kyle Sargent

Rhein Sports Day held on Sunday


It was a hot but windy day with the final ending in a tie after lighting strikes forcing the game to finish after 5. 

RPFL teams Rosebud Royals and Rhein Rockets were in the tournament.  
Rhein Rockets lost the final to Fleming Jets, winning both pool games and losing to The Fleming Jets. Evan Neibrandt and Bret Peppler had home runs. Terry Peppler pitched 2 games and Bret pitched one.
Rosebud Royals went 1-1-1 to win the C side losing to YFC Jays, tying the Fleming Jets, and beating SCN. Royals bats were hot with Tristin McMartin  hitting a Grand Slam, and home runs by Dylon Murias, Greg Tokarchuk, Derek Ekstrom, Scott Comfort. James Holowaty pitched all three games and Dane Ward hit a walk off to score three runs in the C-Final again SCN (Pelican Narrows).
The B- Final saw the KK Blues and  YFC Jays tied 0-0 after 5 and the game was called due to lighting.

Submitted)