ice times magazine march 2011

“Keep your kids out of hot water, MARCH 2011put them on ice”

The Official Hockey Magazine of the Texas Amateur Hockey Association

Cole Seevers

Adventuresof a Hockey Mom

Hockey isExpensive

This Magazine is FREE

The RightProgram

for You

ABC’s ofGirls HockeyTexas Edition

GETNOTICED

Will Payfor GOALS

AggressiveTrapping

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Checking!! James Pace (Frisco JVS)Cross Hanas (Dallas Stars Selects Mites) Eli Gould of the Squirt A Houston Hurricanes

The Dallas Stars Elite Hockey Club will host the 2011 Rocky Mountain District Tour-nament on March 3-6 at the Dr. Pepper StarCenter Farmers Branch.

Local fans and friends are encouraged to stop by and support their 9 local teams and 17 others from Arizona, Utah, & Colorado as well as enjoy some top tier youth hockey action at the 12U to 18U age divisions. You can keep track of all scores at http://www.dsehc.com/page/show/271272-rocky-mountain-district-championship-tour-nament

2011 Planned Events• Mar 3-6 Districts: Tier 1 Youth (Dallas)• Mar 4-6 Districts: Tier Girls/Women (UT)• Mar 18-20 TAC Boys/Girls (Dallas)• Mar 25-27 Texas Cup HS States (TBD)• Mar 23-27 Nationals: High School (Chic.)• Mar 30-Apr 3 Nationals: Tier II Girls (CA)• Mar 30-Apr 3 Nationals: Tier I/II Youth (Various)• Apr 1-3 Nationals: Women A/B/C (Various)• Apr 6-10 Nationals Tier I Girls (MI)• Apr 13-17 Americas HS Showcase (PA)• May 5-8 RMD Player Dev. Camp (SLC)

Hockey Weekend Across America was held Feb. 18-20 this year. Hockey families across TX/OK participated by:

• Fri - Wear jersey to school

• Sat - Bring a friend to rink

• Sun - Celebrate local hero

Ten rinks hosted a “Try Hockey for Free” clinic on Sat. Feb. 19th that was fun for all!

Congratulations to the teams below who were crowned State Champions at the Feb. 11-13 State Tournament. Good luck at Districts & Nationals.

• T1 18U: Stars Elite


• T1 14U: Alliance


• T2 18U: Houston Wild

• T2 16U: Texas Tornado

• T2 14U: Houston Hitmen

• T2 12U: DJHA Penguins

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Seven Lakes Varsity Hockey team in the homecoming parade.

Adventures of a Hockey MomBy Connie Holubar

Through the almost 19 years since I became a mom, I’ve had many

roles. I started out as Working Mom, scrambling to get out of work each night so I could pick my infant son up from daycare before they charged me extra for being late. I was a Soccer Mom for at least ten years. I have been a Den Mother, and a Room Mother, the neighborhood “Kool Aid” Mom, a bit of a Stage Mother, a Baseball Mom, but in all this time nothing has been quite as special to me as my years in the role of Hockey Mom. Looking back, I realize I have been a hockey mom for more than 15 years, and I was a hockey mom before my son ever even played his first game of hockey. There are some things in life you don’t choose. They choose you. My role as hockey mom started innocently enough…. …In October 1995, our young

family of four was in Vail, Colorado, for a relaxing week during the off season. We’d driven up from our home in Boulder, and there wasn’t much happening in Vail that week. We were going a little stir crazy watching the final hours and the verdict in the O.J. Simpson trial on TV, so we took our tots to story hour at the Vail library. On our way out we decided to walk to the nearby ice rink to check out the public skating schedule. We were just in time to see the Zamboni cleaning the ice, so rather than just grabbing a schedule and moving along, we headed into the rink. Our little boys were fascinated with anything big, and the Zamboni was probably the coolest thing they’d ever seen. I remember my husband and I each holding a boy up to the glass to watch the giant machine pass by. They were enthralled. Then, just as the Zamboni left and

we were ready to leave too, a group of “big boys” hit the ice. It was a hockey team, the first my sons had ever seen. It was the first hockey team I had ever seen too: the Vail Avalanche. We stuck around to watch them for a while. Even with all the years that have passed, I still remember my son Tanner, not even three and a half years old, hanging on my husband’s arms, with his face and both hands pressed to the glass. I remember being amazed at how intently he watched every move, with his little head moving to the left, and the right, leaving little spots on the glass. Eventually, the coach came onto the ice, blew his whistle, and the boys began to gather center ice, but not before one of them skated over to where we stood, stopped, nodded at my husband and I, and tossed a puck over the glass to Tanner. It was his first puck. I didn’t know it then, but I can trace it back now. That was the day, the time,

Connie Holubar is a freelance writer and hockey mom now living in Mabank, Texas. Her son just completed his first season as a member of the club team at Oklahoma State University.

the exact moment, that I became a Hockey Mom.In that instant, something dramatic happened to our young son that changed the course of our lives for the next 15 years, maybe forever. Our oldest son, and by virtue, our entire family had been bitten by the hockey bug.To Be Continued...■

Holden and Rileigh Harris

IceTimesMagazine

As the season winds down people start thinking about summer

programs and how best to stay on the ice without developing “hockey burnout.” There are a wide variety of camps, clinics and leagues available, many at very reasonable prices. Which one is right for you? If you have a better understanding of what’s out there, you can make an educated decision. There are several factors that have to be considered when deciding what type of program you want for the summer. With a struggling economy everyone is looking for great value. However, finding a good deal should not mean that you have to compromise on quality. Look closely at your choices and determine the type or types of programs that are right for you. Here are the most common programs.Association Run Camps:These “pre-tryout” or “training camps” are run by the local travel associations using their staff coaches. These are normally very well organized and well run programs. The coaches are typically expert in running these camps and include a variety of drills, games and scrimmages to elevate the skill level of the participants. This type of camp is normally designed for the player

already playing at a higher level. If you plan on attending one of these camps make sure you know who the coaches will be. You should expect professional coaches with years of experience. These camps normally range in price from $600-$1500 for a 6-10 week program so you should expect and deserve top rate instruction.Independent Camps:Hockey Camps have been around for decades. These are typically 1-2 week camps where players are on the ice for 3-5 hours per day and normally include an off-ice program as well. Depending on the program, these camps offer a variety of skill levels and training methods. The ones that have been around for many years like Northern Edge, Turcotte, Laura Stamm, and Pro Ambitions are well organized and offer great instruction at a reasonable price, normally $300-$600 per week for 12-15 hours of on-ice instruction and off-ice programs. This type of camp is great for all skill levels and can raise a player’s skill level dramatically in a short time. I have found that 3-4 hours of training per day over the course of a week can be superior to 6-8 weeks of camp with ice twice a week. Of course it depends

on the player, but for many, these types of camps are a great choice if you’re looking for value.Leagues:Summer leagues offered by the various rinks are designed to be fun and keep kids skating at a minimum cost. There are a variety of programs around town and you can find some economical deals if you compare pricing. The highest cost programs are normally the leagues that run one program for the entire summer. The cost usually ranges fro $600-$800. This type of league allows very little time for other sports and family vacations. Another choice is separate spring and summer leagues. These tend to be a better value because you can play hockey over the summer but still enjoy some time away. Some programs even offer deep discounts for combining spring and summer leagues together for those folks wanting to play all summer. Also look at programs that offer smaller teams and more ice. 3 on 3 and 4 on 4 programs with modified rules that keep the kids on the ice and emphasize creativity and skating are all the rage up north. I was talking to Stars coaches recently and both believe that kids need time to be creative in a fun and less structured environment. This type of


Keith Andresen, Senior Director,

Hockey Programs

Dr. Pepper StarCentersDallas Stars Hockey Club

Summer HockeyBy Keith Andresen

Which program is right for you?

program gives kids the chance to have fun while maximizing the time they are on the ice. No matter which program you think is right for you, compare the value offered by similar programs. Ask around to your friends and other players to find out about their experiences with various camps. The more you research and compare, the better decision you can make based on what you are looking for, the camp structure, the price, and the overall value. ■

(from left) Christopher Kelly (Alliance Bulldogs Mite A), Kaito Letkiewicz (DSYHL McKinney Mite Coyotes), Kodai Letkiewicz (DSYHL Frisco PeeWee

Flyers), Nigel Good, Isac Ungerholm (DSYHL Frisco Mite Leafs), Marcus Good

Preston Lamm (Dallas Penguins, Atkinson - PeeWee B) finishes off a breakaway in a 4-2 win on 2/9 against Dallas Penguins, Sleavin - PeeWee B.


On the CoverMarch 2011Now In Our Sixth Season!

On The Cover:Cole Seevers from The Farmers Branch Squirts.

Want to be our next cover shot? Send in your high resolution picture to [email protected]

Cover Shot Contest! PARENTS: Send in your picture and if it makes our Cover Shot of the Month you will win a gift certificate to

YOU SHOOT. YOU SCORE… THE KEG!

Monthly ColumnsAdventures of a Hockey Mom . . . . . . . . 4For The Good of The Game . . . . . . . . . 5Life Lessons on Ice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Get Noticed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Hockey From The Neck Up . . . . . . . . . 15Grow The Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Strong Hockey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Behind the Bench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Ice Times Magazine is published monthly by Tink Ink Publications, LLC & distributed free of charge at ice rinks and pro-shops. Copy and Photographs are welcome and must be submitted by the 20th of the month prior to publication. ITM reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. Reproduction in whole or part without express written consent of the Publisher is prohibited.

Scott Tinkham, [email protected]

Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tink Ink PublicationsSpecial Thanks to Connie Holubar and Deborah Reynolds for lending us a hand in the Editing Department

Advertising Opportunities . . . . . [email protected]

To submit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.icetimesmagazine.com• Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . click on “send info”• Photographs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . click on “send pics”

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Kim Tinkham (1957 - 2010)

Ice Times Magazine is dedicated to the memory of Kim Tinkham.

Kim lost her brave battle with breast cancer Tuesday, December 7, 2010. Kim was a hockey mom, wife, youth hockey enthusiast, and editor and publisher of Ice Times. She will be greatly missed.

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Nice cross over move by Kyle Taylor (Plano West JVS)

All the gear you need to get in the game.

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Tyler Lasiter (McKinney Squirt B) driving the puck.

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Greetings frozen ones,PASSION: I am part of the coaching staff of an 18U Tier I hockey club, and last Saturday night our season ended in the RMD tournament. Unless you win the national championship your season is going to end on a loss. That bothers me because well, I’m a bad loser, I hate to lose more then I love to win (something we look for in players by the way). Its seems to me and the guy I coach with that it’s becoming a rarity for players to get upset about losing. I’m not talking about breaking sticks over the boards or throwing stuff but mad and disappointed that they lost. I think it should ruin your day, then at the end of the day as you lie in your bed reflect back on your loss and file it under things learned that I’m not happy about, you close your eyes and go to sleep. I believe it’s all about the passion. This season as you know I lost my best

friend to breast cancer and I decided that life is to short and too unpredictable to not be passionate so I decided that I’m not going to do anything or spend a single minute on something I’m not passionate about. Well I’m passionate about coaching, there comes a time in many eighteen year olds life when they tune their parents out and I consider it an honor and a privilege to be there for them during this challenging time in their life. So I asked our team to play with passion during our state tournament. The team wore a special tribute jersey in honor of my best friend with her initials on the back. I asked them to respect the jersey and to play with passion, it wasn’t about winning, it was about passion. I was so proud of the boys, they respected me and respected KT and in a way learned the power of passion I encourage all parents to help their kids find their passion no matter what

it is because if your passionate about something then you’re happy and isn’t that all we really want for our kid’s is to be happy. Oh yea, we won the game and we were the underdog. Thanks boys and thanks ChrisK for being there for me, this is a season I will never forget and to Kim thanks for the assist.

Note to readers: I have asked the ITM staff not to correct any of my typos, misspelled words or improper word usage etc. This is who I am this is how it comes out, I’m an old hockey player and coach not a journalist and I am here to tell you it’s all about the passion so take a step back when you see ”IT”, it’s becoming rare, enjoy it and feel that smile appear across your face. ■

Life Lessons On Ice by Scott Tinkham, Editor

Photos by Byron Walls

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Seven Lakes Varsity Hockey team photo - Katy, TX Colton Huard and Zachary Barros with Jonathon Toews in the Blackhawks locker room.

Jonathan Buffington takes a shot at goal.

Parker Meade and Peyton Sneathern (Scots’ Midget Minor A)do some team bonding through karaoke.

Carson Whornham and his dad David WhornhamAces goalie Chris Neukranz narrowly kicks out a shot, keeping it from scoring.

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Get NoticedBy Brad Buetow

Do You Want To Play Prep School, Midget AAA, Junior or College Hockey?

Coming May 20-22, 2011, Texas and Oklahoma hockey players have the opportunity to show off their talent at the

7th Annual Junior Placement Showcase. JPS hockey showcase will be at Apex Arena in Denver and will start at 3:00pm on Friday, May 20 and will end at 1:00pm on Sunday, May 22. Attending and participating in JPS hockey showcase will be coaches and GM’s from Midget AAA, Prep School, Junior A, and College (Division I-III) programs from the United States and Canada. Last year there were over 60 programs involved at the showcase. These coaches/GM’s will coach behind the bench and provide informational sessions to players and their parents regarding their respective programs during the weekend. Director, Brad Buetow, stated that he believed there was a need for this hockey showcase so that Texas/Oklahoma athletes could be noticed and further advance their hockey careers. Brad has had over 20 years experience as a head coach at the University of Minnesota, United States International University, and Colorado College, was name “Coach of the Year” 5 times (both

in the collegiate and professional levels), played professional hockey, and has been director/coach for 9 years in Colorado Midget AAA programs where he has placed over 75 players in Junior A and over 40 players in Division I-III college programs. “I know Texas and Oklahoma has great potential to move players on to other programs so they can accomplish their lifelong goals of getting a quality education and continuing to play hockey. That is the sole purpose of JPS!” In addition, many players from previous JPS camps have received offers from various programs throughout the US and Canada. According to Brad, attending JPS is like attending over 60 individual camps, thus saving money and yet maximizing player’s exposure. Information regarding JPS can be found online at JPS-Hockey.com or you can email Brad Buetow at [email protected]. ■

Brad Buetow is the Director of Junior Placement Showcase. He is also a coach and former professional hockey player.

JPS – Hockey Showcase91’ - 96’ Midget AAA, Prep, Jr A, College Div I-III

Denver, CO (APEX Arena) MAY 20-22, 201160 Coaches/GM’s in attendanceJPS is like attending 60 team selection camps4 Games & Information sessions (Midget AAA, Prep, Junior A, College)

www.JPS-hockey.comGeorge Gwozdecky – Head Hockey Coach, University of Denver WCHA‘At the University of Denver was are proud that 33% of our hockey team is comprised of players from the state of Colorado and therefore I am supportive of any opportunity that gives hockey players from our state a chance to develop and receive the exposure to the Junior A hockey coaches as well as college hockey programs.

Brad Buetow has played and coached at the highest level of NCAA Division I college competition and knows what it takes to play at this level. Some of Brad’s former players who are currently playing at the University of Denver include Chris Nutini and Luke Salazar,”

Kevin Hartzell – GM/Head Coach Sioux Falls Stampede USHL“Brad Buetow, Director of JPS, was my college coach when I played at the University of Minnesota and I feel that with Brad’s contact JPS is one of the top exposure camps for juniors, prep, midget, and college scouts. We will enjoy coming out and feel it is very worthwhile. Coach Buetow, JPS Director, has coached in Division I College for 20 years, scouted and coached in the pros for several years and with his network he has helped my career immediately.”

Dean Blais – Head Coach University of Nebraska-Omaha CCHA“We are looking forward to scouting players out of the JPS showcase. The competition is excellent and there will be several scouts/coaches from all the junior A/B and college levels.”

Jon Bonnett – Assistant Coach Colorado College WCHA“I believe Coach Buetow is one of the hardest working youth coaches/recruiters in the country. Brad is well connected and visible within the hockey community. Brad is motivated to develop and expose local and non-traditional hockey area players to Midget AAA, Juniors and NCAA Hockey. This camp is the first step.”

John Marks – Head Coach/GM Winkler Flyers Manitoba (MJAL)“Excellent showcase! JPS exposure showcase really puts kids on the radar for future hockey opportunities. I will be attending it along with other Canadian coaches from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario.”

• • • •


2011 Prospect All-Star Series

The All-Star Series is designed to help top prospects enhance and develop their skills under instruction from superior Alliance Hockey coaching. The program is speci�cally for talented Tier I and Tier II players who are striving to play at the next level.

Register Online NOW!

Welcome to Texas Aces/Alliance Bulldogs 2011 Spring HockeyThe All-Star Series is highly competitive, challenging & fun for young athletes. This extensive program provides a select number of players (per age group) an opportunity to learn, develop & improve during their o�-season and helps lead the participant into a strong June try-out.

Pre-Camp Prospect Tournament(4 Game - early April, dates vary by age group)

Exposure to Top Alliance Hockey Coaches

Post-Camp Championship Tournament (4 Game - late May or Early June)

Emphasis on competition & intense skills based training sessions

7-Week Camp includes Full ice 4 on 4 games OR Cross ice 3 on 3 Games plus skills & o�-ice. Age Appropriate O�-Ice

Training Sessions with AYHA’s Training Partner - Crull Fitness & Camp Jersey

1

3

2

Alliance Bulldogs AAA/Texas Aces Prospect All-Star Series includes:

Players should register online at www.texasaceshockey.com or www.alliancebulldogs.org. Once accepted each player will be noti�ed and sent a spring schedule for all Series games and skills sessions. Limited number of teams per age group.

IceTimesMagazine


Moms on Iceby the Ice CougarsWith all the stories lately about hockey moms playing hockey, I thought you might be interested in a few pics of some moms here in Texas. Right before Christmas our newly formed “Ice Cougars” participated in a scrimmage during intermission at a Texas Tornadoes game against our sons. The boys played together last season on the Plano Mite Blues. Four of the boys are squirts this year, and 3 are still mites. The “Ice Cougars” are all hockey moms over the age of 36. Most of us just started skating in August and are still learning hockey. We have all watched our boys play countless games so thought of course we could do it. Well, we have come to realize just how skilled these youngsters truly are. This has been one of the most difficult things I have ever tried, but also the most fun I’ve ever had. We are still taking hockey classes and will begin playing co-ed I League in the spring. We are recruiting more moms and some dads to our team now, and can’t wait to play. Our biggest fans? Our hockey boys!

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888-878-8465 Keep your kids out of hot water – put them on ice!13

Texas Aces Bantam AA won their championship game at the Big Bear Tournament, President’s Day 2011, St Louis

The Houston Wild Wins Texas State Championship!

Jr Brahmas win first place in the NTXHL Mite Division.Coaches: Scott Branum, John Cusack, Brian Edwards & Mason Beall.

Dallas Stars U18 AAA win the state title.

The Penguin 98 PeeWee AA’s Win 2011 Tier II State Championship!

Marcus HS JV Ice Hockey Team2011 Winter Games of Texas Gold Medal Champions

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Dilanka Weerasinghe (DSS-Plano PeeWee Minor) looking for an open pass

Brady Amox of the Grapevine Wolves defending his zone.

Brandon Bowers DSYHL Squirt Bruins.

Chandler Cravey Ice Jets squirts.

A super save by Ryan Hooks (Grapevine Wolves Squirt Minor).

IceTimesMagazine


Aggressive TrappingBy Paul O’Donnell

Paul O'Donnell currently writes for the Hockey Stop Magazine. He has been coaching in the Chicagoland Area for the past 25 years. Paul grew up in The Greater Boston Area and played college hockey for Salem State College in Massachusetts.

Anyone who is familiar with my hockey philosophy would never

consider it passive. The in-your-face, take no prisoners, Eastern style of play I was taught while growing up in Massachusetts has served me well over the years, both as a player and as a coach. Two of the main pillars this aggressive style of hockey stands on defensively are: Always force your opponent to make a good play, and only give ground when it’s absolutely necessary – including the neutral zone! Many coaches prefer to take a much more passive defensive approach when the puck is traveling through the neutral zone. To me, the only thing neutral about the neutral zone is its name. The closer any opponent gets to our team’s real estate, the more tenacious I want my team to play. For example, if the opposition has time and space during the early stages of their breakout, players should begin to set the groundwork for an aggressive trap before the puck ever crosses the blueline. All three forwards must understand exactly what they’re trying to accomplish on this particular forecheck. Is the ultimate goal to force some kind of turnover before the other team has a chance to cross center ice? Or is it to force the other team into a dump and chase scenario? These decisions are, quite often, determined by the skills of each of the team’s players who happen to be on the ice at that particular time. If the mismatch favors the defenders, then this is an opportunity to be more aggressive. But, if the trapping team happens to be facing a more skilled group of players, they may want to take a more passive approach and hope the puck can be recovered following a dump-in by the other team. In either case the process is the same. To be successful each forechecker must perform these four simple tasks:Isolate the puck carrier to one side of the ice as soon as possible during the forecheck.Close off as many passing lanes as possible.Execute the forechecking system with discipline and speed.Take away as much time and space from

as many of their forwards as possible before they have the opportunity to break the puck across their own blueline.How to TrapWhile the puck is still deep in enemy territory, the closest trapping forward (F1) begins setting the stage for what is to come by taking an inside-out approach. This process begins in the middle of the ice by forcing the puck carrier towards one side of the rink or the other. During the early phases of a trapping situation the opponent’s stickhandling duties will usually be accomplished by a defenseman. As the defenseman is still deep in his zone, F1 should be paying close attention to the shooting side of the puck carrier. This is an important “tell” for the primary forechecker to always take note of as soon as possible. The reason for this is simple: Knowing which way the puck carrier stickhandles will determine his level of puck possession and ultimately how vulnerable he will be to attack as he gathers speed. When referring to the puck carrier’s level of puck possession, I am referring to their threat potential or their ability to continue moving the attack forward by passing or skating the puck up ice.Keep Puck Handlers Toward the BoardsWhen a puck carrier emerges from behind his own net with the puck on his backhand, he will always want to move towards the middle of the ice, rather than being steered to his back hand along the sidewall. During the early stages of the trap it’s crucial that the first forechecker never, I repeat, “NEVER,” allows the puck carrier to cut inside towards the middle of the ice surface. If the carrier gets inside, that forechecker has allowed a shift from a relatively vulnerable level of puck possession with little to no passing potential to the highest level possible of puck possession. Allowing an opponent to cut into the middle will usually allow a player multiple passing options, not only to the right and left, but also teammates who are crisscrossing towards the middle of the ice surface. While many would think the first forechecker is the only one responsible for isolating the opposing puck carrier, in reality, every other player on the ice at that time has their

own parts to play. Shut Down Passing OptionsAs F1 begins his approach to steer his opponent to the outside in a curling motion, the second and third players closest to the puck (F2 and F3) should have already figured out their own responsibilities during this particular play, which are already predetermined by their proximity to the puck. Their first responsibilities are to take away any primary passing options for the puck carrier as soon as possible. Forechecking defensemen should be moving in a position to shut down passing options of players looking for an easy breakup while stretching the ice surface beyond center ice. This doesn’t necessarily mean shadowing every opponent who is playing away from the puck. It does mean however, at the very least, F2 and F3 should be anticipating where their opponents are planning to receive their passes and moving into close proximity on the ice in order to have the opportunity to intercept those players, if any pass is received, before they have the opportunity to control the puck and look for passing options themselves.Ensure Correct Forward PositioningThe best location for a forechecker to accomplish this successfully is to be on the inside of his opponent, approximately 10 feet diagonally away. Keeping the opponent in front and to the outside of the supporting forechecker is important for two reasons. First, if either of the opponents who F2 or F3 are covering does happen to receive a pass, the forechecker will still be in position to recover and adjust to the situation. The second reason is to keep the player in sight. If these two players are where they should be during this particular scenario, F2 will be taking up his position approximately 15 to 20 feet behind F1, but slightly inside of him by about 5 feet. Simultaneously, F3 should be in the process of shrinking the ice surface considerably by locking onto, or at the very least, taking away any passing lane from the widest opposing attacker on the breakout. When all three players are positioned correctly the stage is set for the final act, which will be to steer

the puck carrier into the lowest level of puck possession possible.Provide for Back UpAs F1 begins to shrink the available skating surface of his opposing puck carrier by steering him towards the boards, F2 is positioned to backup F1 as he begins the squeeze. If the stickhandler begins to elude or break away from F1, it’s F2’s job to continue forcing the puck carrier towards the boards by either pinning him against the boards, forcing a bad pass or a deep dump into the forechecker’s zone.Force the PlayIn a situation where the opposing puck carrier has broken out of his own zone, but has lost his passing options due to his proximity to the boards, the play should always be forced before the opponent reaches center ice. If it appears that the stickhandler will attempt to dump the puck in as soon as he crosses the red line, the near side forechecking defenseman should attempt to position himself approximately 15 to 20 feet along the boards, in front of the puck carrier, to intercept the dump in.Reverse RolesIt’s also important to remember that as soon as F1 hands off the responsibility of primary forechecker to F2, each of the two player’s roles has just reversed. To read this article in its entirety visit www.neckuphockey.com. ■

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Emily “the hockey Diva” KlineSan Antonio Jr Rampage - Squirt B

Alex Thompson (Plano West JVS) getting sandwiched by2 Frisco players.Pee Wee A brings home 2nd place in the

Chicago Mid Winter Classic

Brayden Stevenson (Jr Brahmas - Mite)

Brenden Coon with the Frisco Mites Leafs team charges up ice in a recent game in Frisco.

Reid Robertson (DSS-Plano PeeWee Minor) and his sister Reilly pose for the siblings portrait.

IceTimesMagazine


Courtney Welch is the USA Hockey Program Services Manager for Texas. Courtney has worked as an administrator in hockey for 12 years.

GROW THE GAME By Courtney Welch

Parents had an opportunity to watch their child’s second first steps on Saturday, February 19th as more than 5,000

boys and girls took to the ice in a Try Hockey for Free Clinic to celebrate Hockey Weekend Across America. Texas and Oklahoma hosted 10 of the 200 clinics nationwide, inviting more than 530 kids to take their first steps on the ice. “I’m extremely excited about the impact of Hockey Weekend Across America,” said Ted Skinner, Texas Amateur Hockey Association president. “We had 10 rinks participate, and the event was similar to Hockey Day in Texas back in October. In the last four months, as a result of these two events, we have introduced nearly 1,000 boys and girls in Texas to the sport,” he said. Skinner says the TAHA knows that if you can get a kid to the rink, get them in the equipment, put a stick in their hands, and put them on the ice, they are going to have a fun time and want to come back.

Sugar Land Ice & Sports Center welcomed 227 kids to the ice during Hockey Weekend after working with their local Girl Scouts to encourage a high participation by girls in the event. The Ice and Golf Center at Northwoods in San Antonio welcomed 63 boys and girls to their clinic, while Sierra Providence Event Center and The Ice at Stonebriar had 44 and 39 kids, respectively. USA Hockey provided each clinic with jerseys and goody bags and helped with the customization of marketing materials to help promote the event in each of the local communities. Rinks that are interested in putting together their own Try Hockey for Free opportunity are encouraged to call Courtney Welch at (719) 538-1118 for more information on organization and special assistance. ■

Hockey Weekend Across America Introduces Over 500 Kids to Youth Hockey in Texas

Wolves tailgating in OKC.Seven Lakes Varsity Hockey team in the homecoming parade.

Dad (Mike Russell) and his son (Marcus Russell) go at the puck at Parents/Players fun game (Grapevine Wolves Squirt Minor)

A great save by Lane Miller (Plano West JVS).

IceTimesMagazine


Ref Gotsdiner helps a player with their helmet.

Luke DeHaven (DSYHL Frisco Squirt Flyers) controls the puck all the way.

Adam Theisen (McKinney Squirt B)keeping the head up.

IceTimesMagazine


Kasie Strong is a hockey coach, hockey player and hockey enthusiast. A native of Groton, Massachusetts, Kasie currently resides in Trondheim, Norway where she is the Head Coach for the Astor Women’s Hockey Team.

The ABC’s of Girls HockeyBy Kasie Strong

Strong Hockey is sponsored by Orthopedic Trauma Surgeons, 3600 Gaston Ave., Suite 755, Dallas, Texas 75246214 - 826-1730 • Dr. Paul Freudigman, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon

Texas EditionAlliance - Alliance Girls Hockey Program currently offers 12U, 14U & 19U teams and is expanding to offer a 16U team in the 2011-2012 season!

Body Contact - Incidental contact, usually along the boards, where players are battling for puck possession. Body contact is different from body checking which is not allowed in girls’ hockey.

Confidence - IT SPEAKS FOR ITSELF.

Dallas - Where the 2012 USA Hockey Tier II Girls National Championship will take place.

Everyone- Big or small, hockey is for all. East or west, Texas does it best!

Forever Young- Just ask the Dallas “Retro” Lady Stars who are headed to Tampa at the end of April to compete in the USA Hockey Over 40 Women’s Recreational Hockey Championship.

Girl Power- “Anything you can do, I can do better… and will look better doing it too!” (Sorry boys.)

Heroes- Thank you Cammi Granato, Angela Ruggiero and other Olympians for being our heroes and paving the way for girl’s & women’s hockey.

Interest - It starts with an interest and turns into a passion.

Just Us Girls- know the challenges girls can sometimes face playing hockey. We don’t let that hold us back and continue to strive for greatness.

Keep it Fun- It’s what it’s all about!

Locker Room- privacy, comfort and girl talk. We always want to come to practice.

Memories- It’s never too early or too late to start making hockey memories… why wait?

Nationals- Alliance 12U Girls are headed to Anaheim, CA March 30th- April 3rd to compete in the 2011 USA Hockey Tier II Girls National Championship.

Olympics- The next chance to watch USA go for gold is at the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi.

Pony Tails- You’ll never be without a hair band again!

Questions- We ask questions because we want to understand and improve our game.

Rocky Mountain Districts- Alliance 14U & 19U teams to attend 2011 RMD Regional Championship Tournament in Salt Lake City, UT, March 4th-6th.

Sisters- teammates = sisters. Awesome!

Tournaments- You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the excitement of an all-girls’ hockey tournament.

University- Want to play college hockey one day? There are currently 34 Division I and 52 Division III Collegiate Women’s Hockey Programs in the USA for you to chose from.

Victory- We win together, we lose together. It’s what we do.

Wolves- Grapevine “Lady” Wolves currently offer a 12U All-Girls’ House Team. ■

IceTimesMagazine


BEHIND THE BENCHBy Mark Dyslin

Mark Dyslin has been coaching youth sports for over 15 years and coaching youth hockey since 1999. He is currently one of the coaches for St. Mark’s Junior Varsity Hockey Team.

Consider, if you will, little Pat the child hockey player. Little Pat’s father thinks it’s a good idea that Pat gets

paid to score goals. A Lincoln for every one (with a bonus for a hat trick). Little Pat likes the attention from dear ol’ Dad. He likes the idea of getting money for goals, even if little Pat is unsure what $5 really means. But like any red-blooded ‘Merican capitalist in the making, he loves the moola! However, little Pat’s teammates are fed up with his end-to-end solo rushes. They know the chance of little Pat passing to one of them is about the same as an ice cube surviving a trip down the River Styx. Teammates don’t congratulate little Pat any longer for goals. Little Pat scores and the rink is ambivalent, except for a lone voice. Kids getting paid for goals! Breaking news? Nah. In fact, we’ve probably all coached kids whose parent’s stuff the piggy. If little Pat is on the dole for goals, should he be benched to stop the behavior? I say no. That’s punishing the player for the parents’ transgressions, especially the younger kids. It is best to cork the behavior at the wellhead. While I would like to confront those spawners with whom I’ve suspected of this ridiculous practice, I’ve consistently

avoided it. Chicken? Perhaps. But it was mostly because I never had any concrete evidence. Should I have assembled the parents, “hinted” about what I suspected, and then set forth with a sanctimonious sermon about the virtues of team play? Maybe, but that would create a whole new set of problems. You know, the sideways looks at those “bad parents.” That’d be loverly, right? What can one do? I decided to consult my relationships expert: the wife. Her advice was to talk with the parents directly and discreetly. She says I should articulate my concern that little Pat seems to lack desire for team play. Ask if there is anything they heard, from little Pat, as to why he doesn’t seem to respect her/his comrades. The genius here is it plants a seed of shame without directly accusing them of being derelicts. Side benefit: there might be something not pay-for-goal related that the family and I could address. See? Brilliant! Another way to try and ward it off early is to address it at the preseason parent meeting. Weave it into your “team first” speech. Maybe that’ll prevent it; or maybe little Pat’s dad will decide you’re a whining weenie. If it’s the latter, see if Daddy Warbucks will cut you in on the action for more playing time. TEASING! . ■

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BE DRIVEN 877-257-3289For more information visit www.DrivenDFW.com

Don’t be THAT Guy.Life of the Party Service Eliminate the risk and embarrassment of a DWI while at the same time experiencing the enjoyment of being dropped off and picked up at the front door everywhere you go.Save 50% off the cost of a limousine company and hire a designated driver. Hire a professionally-trained designated driver for only $35 an hour.

A DWI can cost up to $16,000. Sobering, isn’t it?

Will Pay for Goals

IceTimesMagazineIce Sports Directory


Love Ice Times Magazine and want to help support it? You can donate to our cause of supporting the growth and success of amateur ice hockey in Texas & Oklahoma. Visit our web site and donate what you can to help with the print costs. Thanks so much.

DFW MetroplexAddison Sq Gdn 972-960-7465Starbucks 972-238-1563 .3miOlive Garden 972.239-9096 .1miER CareNow 972-387-8900 2.1mi

The Allen Event Center972-678-4646www.alleneventcenter.com

American Airlines CenterHome of the Dallas Starsfor tickets 214.Go-Stars

Dr Pepper StarCenterEuless 817-267-4233Starbucks 817-684-7943 1.1miOlive Garden 817-251-0222 8.0miER CareNow 817-428-7300 5.0mi

Dr Pepper StarCenterFarmers Branch 214-432-3131Starbucks 972-406-8289 3.4miI Fratelli 972-501-9700 3.5miER CareNow 972-387-8900 5.9 mi

Dr Pepper StarCenter Frisco 214-387-5600Starbucks 972-668-9520 .9miOlive Garden 469-633-0406 .8miER 1st Choice 214.618.6800 1.8mi

Dr Pepper StarCenter McKinney at Craigs RanchMcKinney 469-675-8325Starbucks 214-383-4095 1miCareNow 972-599-0077 8mi

Dr Pepper StarCenter Plano 972-758-7528Starbucks 469-229-0100 .4miOlive Garden 972-578-8576 3.5miER 1st Chioce 214-291-0101 2.1mi

Dr Pepper StarCenter PSA 972-208-5437Starbucks 972-758-9565 .5 miOlive Garden 972.633.0406 3.2miER 1st Chioce 214-291-0101 2.1mi

Dr Pepper StarCenter Valley Ranch 972-831-2453Starbucks 972-304-1985 1miSiena Pasta 972-462-0499 1miCoppell EmCare 972-745-8097 3.6mi

ICE at Stonebriar 972-731-9600Starbucks 972-668-1750 0.1miOlive Garden 469-633-0406 .8miER 1st Choice 214.618.6800 2.4mi

Rinks with closest Starbucks, Italian Food and ER Centers AnD AssOCiATiOns (things change, please call before making the trip)

ICE at The Parks 817-419-0095www.IceAtTheParks.netStarbucks in mall outside of rinkOlive Garden 817-283-3121 11miER CareNow 817-465-4928 1.7mi

Ice Training CenterITC Richardson 972-680-7825Starbucks 972-238-1563 .3miOlive Garden 972-234-3292 2.0miER CareNow 972.387.8900 4.7mi

Polar Ice House Grapevine 972-874-1930Starbucks 972-874-1394 .6miOlive Garden 817-251-0222 4.1miCoppell EmCare 972-745-8097 2.6mi

HoustonAerodrome Ice Skating ComplexHouston 281-84-SKATEStarbucks 832-237-7586 .25 miOlive Garden 281- 890-0784Methodist Willowbrook Hosp.281-477-1000 across from rink

Sugar Land Ice & Sports Center281-265-7465Starbucks 281-265-8911Papa LaRosa Flying Pizza in rink281-313-3500Methodist Sugar Land Hospital 281-274-7000

Space City Ice StationFriendswood 281-486-7979www.spacecityice.netOlive Garden 281-488-1022Starbucks 281-488-9800ER Clear Lake l 281-332-2511

AustinChaparral Ice Centers - Austin512.252.8500

Oklahoma CityBlazers Ice Centre -405-631-3307

Arctic Edge Ice Arena - 405-748-5454

StarStuff Locations in all Dr Pepper StarCenters Rinks(except Valley Ranch)

Players BenchRichardson 972.808.9991Coppell 972.393.2777

PRO shOPs*

Forwards/DefenseDavid Ambler 817.905.4561David Fry 817.832.2847Phil Chaney 214.537,6997Cliff Cook 469.831.5441Sergey Deshevyy 214.498.6967Danny Force 817.903,5442Ryan McLean 469 525 1985 Stew Carson 817.253.7022 Michael Beck 972.571.7760Christophe Crossley 817.201.6211Chris Shakesby 214.597.1907Justin Walters 405.413.8623Corey Clarks 360.961.7162

Goaltending

Francois Lemay 469.766.1981Billy Pye 817.845.0133Andrew Norton 817.896.5084Cam MacDonald 817.800.2130

Power SkatingRob Warner 214.478.6605Ramil Sarkulov 817.805.0002David Horn 972.740.5513

PRivATe LessOns*ASSOCIATIONSAerodrome Ice Hockeyaerodromes.com

Alliance Bulldogsalliancebulldogs.org

Arctic Wolf Ice Centerarticwolfice.com

at&t Metroplex High School Hockey Leaguedrpepperstarcenter.com

Austin Roadrunnerswww.chaparralice.com

Bay Area Houston Houndshoundsicehockey.org

Corpus Christi Youth Hockeycoastalbendhockey.com

Dallas Ice Jetsicejets.com

Dallas Oilersdallasoilershockey.com

Dallas Stars AAAdallasstarsaaa.com

Dallas Stars Elite dsehc.com

Dallas Stars Selectsdallasstarsselects.com

Dallas Stars Youth Hockey drpepperstarcenter.com

DJHA Penguinsdjha.com

El Paso Hockeyelpasohockey.org

Grapevine Wolvesgrapevinestarcenter.com

Houston HERricanes Girlswww.houstonherricanes.com

Houston Hitmen Hockeyhoustonhitmen.com

Houston Hurricane Hockeyhoustonhurricanehockey.com

Ice Sports DirectoryHouston Wild Hockeyhoustonwildhockey.com

ICE at the Parks Hockey817-419-0095

Ice Skate USA Hockeyskatememorialcity.com

Interscholastic Hockey Leagueishl.org

Jackalopes Amateur [email protected]

Killer Bee Foundationkillerbeehockey.com

McKinney Ice Hockey Clubmckinneyicehockey.com

Oklahoma City Youth Hockey Association -www.okcyha.org

Polar Ice Housepolaricehousegrapevine.com

Rio Grande Valley Youthrgvyouthhockey.com

San Antonio Youth Hockeysanantonioyouthhockey.com

Scots Hockeydallasscots.com

Senior Stars Hockey Leaguedrpepperstarcenter.com

Sugar Land Ice & Sportssugarlandice.com

Texas Aces Hockey Clubtexasaceshockey.com

Texas Tornado Hockeytornadohockey.com

Tulsa Youth Hockeywww.tyha.com

Univ. of Texas Ice Hockeytexasicehockey.com

Wichita Falls Wildcatswfwildcatshockey.com

Want to be listed as an instructor? You must be a member of good

standing with USA Hockey. Contact [email protected]

You must have a valid USA Hockey membership number

Pro Shops are listed for free with purchase of a regular ad.

Contact us today to place an ad.

[email protected]

Readers, we need a little assist here. Don’t see your rink or

association listed, see something that isn’t correct?

Email us today [email protected]

with your information.

IceTimesMagazine


Alliance Bulldogs & Texas AcesAnnounce Strategic Affiliation

The Alliance Youth Hockey Association and the Texas Aces Hockey Club are excited to announce a strategic affiliation in time for the upcoming 2011-12 try-out season. This move is designed specifically to help strengthen the Alliance Bulldogs Tier I Hockey Program AND better define a path to the highest level of youth hockey in the TAHA area for those in a Texas Aces uniform. Both parties will provide a developmental path to maximize training progress for boys and girls at all age groups and all skill levels from house/rec to Tier I. By affiliating our organizations we have combined the longstanding creditability of the Alliance Tier I organization and the developmental focus of BOTH Tier II organizations (AYHA & TAHC) to serve families and players in all areas of the Metroplex. As both organizations collaboratively build on the advancements of USA Hockey’s developmental benchmarks, youth hockey families can look forward to being part of a promising generation of the DFW hockey legacy.

The Bulldogs:Gain a larger pool of players to access in regards to training, development and recruitment with the opportunity to build the most successful Tier I Hockey program possible for years to come. Additionally, the AYHA has found a partner to work with alongside our Tier II program with the same philosophies and ideas to help grow hockey in Texas & the surrounding areas.

The Texas Aces: Gain a clearly defined path to the Tier I level of play, for those living in the Plano, McKinney, Allen and outlying area’s. Also, Aces players will be exposed to the training & development of the Alliance Tier I Coaching Staff.

From this affiliation,

In Particular, the immediate impacts of this affiliation will be seen in: • Combined Off Season Camps and Clinics • Common Off-ice Training and Conditioning Curriculum with Crull Fitness • Common Program Resources for all teams: Squirt to Midget Major 18U Tier I • Shared organizational resources including coaching and a Common Director of Coaching • Coordinated coaching philosophies and methodologies

coaching skills & vision of both organizations for the benefit of players of all ages and skill levels across the Metroplex…”

“The Alliance organization’s leadership and hockey excellence at all levels is unquestionable. We saw an opportunity for athletes and their families to benefit from common philosophies and to establish a development path for the benefit of all players. This affiliation creates a critical mass of players that can benefit from convenient, family friendly locations, and outstanding coaching,” said Bruce Walpole, Aces Board Member. “We’re going to see even more kids excel on and off the ice...”

“The AYHA has been looking to grow our umbrella in regards to adding a successful & competitive supporting Tier II organization – in addition to our own - that can help fuel the future of our Tier I program. The Texas Aces fit this mold perfectly. They’ve been operating in the area for many years and are committed to player development and progress, much like ourselves. The Aces current leadership is looking to parallel themselves to our existing Tier II program and take a step towards providing a clearly defined path of development and opportunity for their players and families. Both organizations Tier II programs will now lead directly to the Alliance Bulldogs Tier I Hockey Club,” said Chris Kostopoulos, Alliance Director of Coaching. “We’re going to leverage the

The Boards of both organizations are working hard to fine-tune details in preparation for the upcoming pre-tryout camp season, tryouts and the 2011-2012 season. Additional details and information will be updated at

www.TexasAcesHockey.com and www.alliance.pucksystems.com

IceTimesMagazine


Moments In Time Video Productions“The Best of Times… The Best of You”• Commercial Business Advertising• Marketing - Promotional Consulting• Training • Corporate• Music Videos• Special Events • Weddings• Video to DVD Transfers• DVD Authoring & Duplication• SD/HD Post Production

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Cole Sullivan and Brenden Coon with the Frisco Mites Leafs.

Dallas Stars Selects2011 Spring Training

Dr Pepper StarCenter Euless April – June 2011

This is the camp that will prepare youfor your next season’s tryouts!!!

Professional Coaching Staff Landon Wilson (Former Dallas Star) – Dave AmblerTom Yockey – Adam Robbins – Keith Andresen

and Dan Blackburn (Former NY Ranger) - Goalie Coach Tom Taylor (Off-Ice Coach)

$699Squirts – Midget

2002 – 1994

10 weeks – Mondays and Wednesdays*75 minute ice-slots

Goalies receive 10 additional sessionswith Dan Blackburn

$100 coupon off 2011 DSYHL

spring/summer combo$50 off returning DSS Players

Jersey, Individual Player EvaluationFree Tryouts for 2011 Dallas Stars Selects

Monday sessions are dedicated to individual skill: Power Skating – Shooting – Passing – Stickhandling – Face-offs

Wednesday sessions are dedicated to:Small Area Games – Body Contact – Control & Angling

Odd Man Rushes – Fore-check – Back-check Defensive Zone Positioning

Dryland Training – WednesdaysDynamic warm-ups – Shooting technique

Hand eye coordination – Quick feet

For more information visit DPSCDallasStarsSelects.comor call Tom Yockey at 817-267-4233 x 233

ice times magazine march 2011

Documents

try hockey

hockey families

tier youth hockey action

stars elite t2

stars elite t1

districts nationals

u age divisions

hot water