I know I had originally said that I would not reveal the roster until it was officially announced. However, the whole reason for all the secrecy was to keep our guys from getting sniped by other teams. At this point it's too late for any major changes. The guys are either here or they are not coming, so I don't see the harm in spilling some of the beans. The 3 guys profiled today were all teammates last year with the Team Illinois AAA program.
Express Player Profile - Chris Bournazos - Forward
1990 birth year from Naperville, Illinois. Spent the last 4 seasons in the Team Illinois program.
-2007/08: Scored 6 goals and 8 assists in 25 games for the U18 team
-2006/07: Scored 9 goals and 5 assists in 26 games for the U18 team
-2005/06: Scored 18 goals and 12 assists in 28 games for the U16 team
-2004/05: Scored 18 goals and 5 assists in 20 games for the 1990 team
Was drafted by the USHL's Cedar Rapids Rough Riders in the 4th round of the 2006 Futures Draft (#40 overall).
My take: He was one of the most impressive players at our tryout camp. He makes up for his small size (5'8") with blazing speed. He sort of reminds me of former Express player Jamie Ruff, but he's even faster. He's already on a lot of scouts radar, and I would guess the interest will only grow if he can prove himself on the NAHL level. If you didn't see him play at tryout camp, you're in for a treat this year, as he is very fun to watch on the ice.
Express Player Profile - Anthony Orange - Defenseman
1989 birth year. Was one of the Express' tendered players this summer. Played the last 2 seasons in the MWEHL. Scored 5 goals and 6 assists in 31 games with Team Illinois in 2007/08. Played in 25 games in 2006/07 for the Chicago Fury, scoring 1 goal and 5 assists.
My take: A nice solid defenseman, who plays a strong technical game. If I remember correctly, he was the guy who lost part of a tooth during tryout camp. I'm interested to see what he can do at this level.
Express Player Profile - Marian Fiala - Defenseman
**This is the profile I posted back in June**
Originally from Slovakia, same home country as Stan Carsky. Played last year with Team Illinois Midget Major, scoring 1 goal and 2 assists in 22 games. Also played on the Slovakia U18 team.
My take: I couldn't find much information on him, and I don't honestly remember much about him from tryout camp. Like I said back in June, Team Illinois is a solid program with a history of sending quality guys to the junior level. Evidently, he made enough of an impression on the coaches to secure a spot on the team, so they must see something they like in him.
Welcome to Owatonna guys.
With training camp starting tomorrow, here is where what we know of the roster:
G - Adam Buegler
D - Troy Puente
D - Nick Carson
D - Carson Curran
D - Anthony Orange
D- Marian Fiala
F - Josh Daley
F - John Kruse
F - Troy McDonald
F - Alex Niestrom
F- Chris Bournazos
Again, remember nothing is official until we see these guys on the ice at the 4 Seasons. If you've see any of the guys in town this weekend, drop me a line and let me know.
--BK
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Saturday Update, Including 2 Player Announcements
It all begins in a couple of days!! Here's a few nuggets of information for a long holiday weekend:
-Express Player Profile - Alex Niestrom - 6'2"/195 - Forward
Played high school hockey at Hartland-Arrowhead in Wisconsin. His junior year (05/06) he was an honorable mention all-state selection. He also won the Hobey Baker Character Award that season. He has spent the last 2 seasons playing for Culver Academy in Illinois, and the Phoenix Force Midget program.
My take: He's a big, physical forward who should be a nice piece of the Express puzzle. I don't know much more about the guy, but I do know he is in Owatonna. We'll find out what kind of player he is in 13 days at the first exhibition game, and in 18 days when the showcase starts.
-Express Player Profile - Carson Curran - Defenseman
**This is the profile I posted back in June**
Attended Flint Powers Catholic High School in Flint, Michigan. 4 year player on varsity hockey team. Was All-State as a junior and senior. Scored 14 goals/ 38 assists, and was a +41 on a team that lost in overtime of the state championship game. Was named to the All-Division Dream Team by the hockey coaches association. Played on Team Michigan at the Chicago Showcase. Was 2nd team All-Conference defensive lineman on a very good Flint Powers football team his junior year, but gave up football to concentrate on hockey his senior year. Also played lacrosse at FPCHS.
My take: He's a big, offensive-minded defenseman. Prides himself for playing a physical game, and loves to hit. But he's also smart about it, in that he only had 20 PIM his senior year. He admits "Hockey is my life" and "I want to play hockey for the rest of my life." Sounds like a great draft pick by the Express, and a potential fan favorite.
-Here is a summary of what has been released in regards to the Express roster:
G - Adam Buegler
D - Troy Puente
D - Nick Carson
D - Carson Curran
F - Josh Daley
F - John Kruse
F - Troy McDonald
F - Alex Niestrom
Now nothing is official until I actually see these guys in an Express jersey, but I have seen a few of this group in Owatonna already, and the rest are pretty safe bets to arrive this weekend. I would think the entire roster would be made public this next week, but we'll have to wait and see. I'll probably reveal a couple of more guys tomorrow, so keep reading.
--BK
-Express Player Profile - Alex Niestrom - 6'2"/195 - Forward
Played high school hockey at Hartland-Arrowhead in Wisconsin. His junior year (05/06) he was an honorable mention all-state selection. He also won the Hobey Baker Character Award that season. He has spent the last 2 seasons playing for Culver Academy in Illinois, and the Phoenix Force Midget program.
My take: He's a big, physical forward who should be a nice piece of the Express puzzle. I don't know much more about the guy, but I do know he is in Owatonna. We'll find out what kind of player he is in 13 days at the first exhibition game, and in 18 days when the showcase starts.
-Express Player Profile - Carson Curran - Defenseman
**This is the profile I posted back in June**
Attended Flint Powers Catholic High School in Flint, Michigan. 4 year player on varsity hockey team. Was All-State as a junior and senior. Scored 14 goals/ 38 assists, and was a +41 on a team that lost in overtime of the state championship game. Was named to the All-Division Dream Team by the hockey coaches association. Played on Team Michigan at the Chicago Showcase. Was 2nd team All-Conference defensive lineman on a very good Flint Powers football team his junior year, but gave up football to concentrate on hockey his senior year. Also played lacrosse at FPCHS.
My take: He's a big, offensive-minded defenseman. Prides himself for playing a physical game, and loves to hit. But he's also smart about it, in that he only had 20 PIM his senior year. He admits "Hockey is my life" and "I want to play hockey for the rest of my life." Sounds like a great draft pick by the Express, and a potential fan favorite.
-Here is a summary of what has been released in regards to the Express roster:
G - Adam Buegler
D - Troy Puente
D - Nick Carson
D - Carson Curran
F - Josh Daley
F - John Kruse
F - Troy McDonald
F - Alex Niestrom
Now nothing is official until I actually see these guys in an Express jersey, but I have seen a few of this group in Owatonna already, and the rest are pretty safe bets to arrive this weekend. I would think the entire roster would be made public this next week, but we'll have to wait and see. I'll probably reveal a couple of more guys tomorrow, so keep reading.
--BK
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
New Player Acquisition??
One of my sources told me the Express picked up a guy from the Green Bay Gamblers of the USHL. The Express own the NAHL rights of 2 guys that played with the Gamblers last year: Anthony Hayes and Stephen Carew (I profiled both earlier this summer). Carew was recently released by the Gamblers, so my hunch says it is him. We'll find out in a few days.
- A handful of players have already arrived in Owatonna. Most everybody else is arriving Saturday, with practice kicking off on Monday.
--BK
- A handful of players have already arrived in Owatonna. Most everybody else is arriving Saturday, with practice kicking off on Monday.
--BK
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Good News/Bad News Out of Fargo.
The USHL's expansion Fargo Force released their roster today, after wrapping up their final camp yesterday. See the entire roster here: http://www.areavoices.com/force/?blog=32110. I haven't seen a tryout camp roster, but I believe there were at least 3 guys that attended that are on the current Express roster, along with a couple of Express draft picks. Jake Sloat and Tom McCarthy were drafted by the Express, and both made the 25 man Fargo roster. This doesn't really affect this year's Express team, as neither attended our tryout camp, and I can't imagine that the organization thought they would get these guys. Of the guys currently on the Express roster, only 1 made the Fargo roster. Presumably, that would mean we should see the others report to Express training camp Monday.
My take: As stated previously, I think I have a fairly accurate read on the current Express roster, but with all the secrecy, I can't be positive. If my roster is correct, the Express really only lost 1 guy that "should" have been on the roster. The couple of guys that didn't make the Force will be big-time guys on the Express this year. In an ideal world, all of your draft picks would end up on the final roster, but I would rather shoot high and take a chance on some kids that might not end up in an Express sweater, than shoot low. Once the guys report next week, I can fill everybody in on the names. Also, don't forget that the Force will still have trim 2 guys from the roster before the regular season starts, so there is still a chance that our guy could end up in Owatonna.
Less than a week until the guys report, see you at the rink.
--BK
My take: As stated previously, I think I have a fairly accurate read on the current Express roster, but with all the secrecy, I can't be positive. If my roster is correct, the Express really only lost 1 guy that "should" have been on the roster. The couple of guys that didn't make the Force will be big-time guys on the Express this year. In an ideal world, all of your draft picks would end up on the final roster, but I would rather shoot high and take a chance on some kids that might not end up in an Express sweater, than shoot low. Once the guys report next week, I can fill everybody in on the names. Also, don't forget that the Force will still have trim 2 guys from the roster before the regular season starts, so there is still a chance that our guy could end up in Owatonna.
Less than a week until the guys report, see you at the rink.
--BK
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Pre-Season Schedule
The Express are playing a pre-season game September 12th at the 4 Seasons in Owatonna. This is the Friday before the NAHL Showcase. The game will be played on the west rink, and I haven't heard who the opponent will be.
- I wonder if there will be some exhibition games against Shattuck-St Mary's this year. The Express will be using their ice once come March.
- With the news last week that the Fairbanks Ice Dogs are going to play the Alaska Avalanche on an outside rink this season got me wondering if we could play our March home games at Morehouse Park or Lake Kohlmeier. Of course I'm kidding.
- I also wonder if there has been any thought of starting an Express Booster Club.
Anyways, the off-season drought is almost over, as the boys report for camp in 10 days. Then we should have some more things to talk about, and can start getting a feel for the team.
--BK
- I wonder if there will be some exhibition games against Shattuck-St Mary's this year. The Express will be using their ice once come March.
- With the news last week that the Fairbanks Ice Dogs are going to play the Alaska Avalanche on an outside rink this season got me wondering if we could play our March home games at Morehouse Park or Lake Kohlmeier. Of course I'm kidding.
- I also wonder if there has been any thought of starting an Express Booster Club.
Anyways, the off-season drought is almost over, as the boys report for camp in 10 days. Then we should have some more things to talk about, and can start getting a feel for the team.
--BK
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Express All-Time Team - Defensemen
Well, everybody is pretty much in agreement over which two goalies will be on the Big Kahuna All-Time Express Team, so let's move on to the defensemen. I have 9 nominees, which will need to whittled down to 6 guys for the final All-Time Team roster. Make a case for which guys you think deserve to be named to the team. Eventually we'll have to choose 2 to start, but that'll come later.
Here are the nominees:
- Chris Barth - 2005/2006 - Filled the important role of enforcer for the Express in year #1, something we haven't had in subsequent years. He was untouchable once the gloves were dropped, and that helped keep Express opponents in line. He wasn't much of a scoring threat, but was far from a liability as a blue-liner. Played professionally in the CHL.
- Stu Bickel - 2005/2006 - Came to the Express part way into the season, and played both forward and defense. Showed some scoring ability, but his physical presence was the most beneficial to the Express. Played a year with the Gophers, and just signed with the NHL's Anaheim Ducks.
- Jeff Carlson - 2005/06 & 2006/07 - Offensive defenseman, scored 75 points in his 2 years with the Express. Currently playing at the University of Alaska - Anchorage.
- Gabe Guentzel - 2006/2007 - Played in 72 games for the Express including the playoffs. After a year in Sioux Falls (USHL), will play at Colorado College (WCHA) this fall.
- Peter Kavaya - 2005/06 & 2006/07 - Played the bulk of 2 seasons for the Express. Heading for Western Michigan University this fall.
- Tim Kirby - 2006/07 & 2007/08 - Made a huge improvement to become a solid division 1 prospect over his 2 seasons with the Express. Playing hockey for the Air Force Academy this fall.
- Brian Schack - 2005/2006 - Another solid defenseman from year #1. Currently playing hockey for the Gophers in the WCHA.
- Robby Spalding - 2006/07 & 2007/08 - Had the hardest slapshot of any Express player. Served as captain last year.
- Kevin Wright - 2005/06 & 2006/07 - Like Tim Kirby, a guy who really blossomed as a player during his 2 years with the Express. Earned an appointment to the Air Force Academy.
Let's hear what you have to say. We'll move onto forwards later this week.
--BK
Here are the nominees:
- Chris Barth - 2005/2006 - Filled the important role of enforcer for the Express in year #1, something we haven't had in subsequent years. He was untouchable once the gloves were dropped, and that helped keep Express opponents in line. He wasn't much of a scoring threat, but was far from a liability as a blue-liner. Played professionally in the CHL.
- Stu Bickel - 2005/2006 - Came to the Express part way into the season, and played both forward and defense. Showed some scoring ability, but his physical presence was the most beneficial to the Express. Played a year with the Gophers, and just signed with the NHL's Anaheim Ducks.
- Jeff Carlson - 2005/06 & 2006/07 - Offensive defenseman, scored 75 points in his 2 years with the Express. Currently playing at the University of Alaska - Anchorage.
- Gabe Guentzel - 2006/2007 - Played in 72 games for the Express including the playoffs. After a year in Sioux Falls (USHL), will play at Colorado College (WCHA) this fall.
- Peter Kavaya - 2005/06 & 2006/07 - Played the bulk of 2 seasons for the Express. Heading for Western Michigan University this fall.
- Tim Kirby - 2006/07 & 2007/08 - Made a huge improvement to become a solid division 1 prospect over his 2 seasons with the Express. Playing hockey for the Air Force Academy this fall.
- Brian Schack - 2005/2006 - Another solid defenseman from year #1. Currently playing hockey for the Gophers in the WCHA.
- Robby Spalding - 2006/07 & 2007/08 - Had the hardest slapshot of any Express player. Served as captain last year.
- Kevin Wright - 2005/06 & 2006/07 - Like Tim Kirby, a guy who really blossomed as a player during his 2 years with the Express. Earned an appointment to the Air Force Academy.
Let's hear what you have to say. We'll move onto forwards later this week.
--BK
Thursday, August 14, 2008
1st Annual Big Kahuna All-Time Express Team - Goalie
With not much else to blog about until the guys report for training camp, I want to kill some time with selecting the "1st Annual Big Kahuna All-Time Express Team". Ultimately there will be a 20 man all-time roster, and a starting lineup of the all-time best players. Now I will ultimately make an educated decision on who the players will be, but you have the opportunity to make your case for a player via the comment section, so let's hear what you have to say. The selections will be based on what they did while they played for the Express.
We will start with selecting the All-Time Express Goalies. We will need one starter and one backup. The nominees are:
- Nick Hopper - 2005/2006 - Regular season record was 31-8-4-3 with a 2.61 GAA. Joined the Express part way into the inaugural season, and was spectacular in goal helping the Express catch and pass the Fargo-Moorhead Jets to win the Central Division title. Currently playing with the Tri-City Storm of the USHL and is committed to the University of Nebraska-Omaha.
- Erik Largen - 2005/2006 - Came to the Express towards the end of the season, and was phenomenal in the playoff run to the Robertson Cup, posting a 6-0 record with a 1.39 GAA. Currently playing hockey with the University of Alaska - Fairbanks.
- Lars Paulgaard - 2006/2007 - Solid and durable, played in 51 regular season games posting a record of 30-18 with 2.54 GAA. He was a rock in the nets for the Express during the 2nd season. Currently playing hockey at the University of Denver in the WCHA.
- Scott Pederson - 2007/2008 - 18-15-4 with a 3.78 GAA playing behind a defense with some questionable talent. Absolutely dominant at times, and very good in shootouts. Currently playing hockey in ?????????.
Allright, make a case for your guy in the comments section.
--BK
We will start with selecting the All-Time Express Goalies. We will need one starter and one backup. The nominees are:
- Nick Hopper - 2005/2006 - Regular season record was 31-8-4-3 with a 2.61 GAA. Joined the Express part way into the inaugural season, and was spectacular in goal helping the Express catch and pass the Fargo-Moorhead Jets to win the Central Division title. Currently playing with the Tri-City Storm of the USHL and is committed to the University of Nebraska-Omaha.
- Erik Largen - 2005/2006 - Came to the Express towards the end of the season, and was phenomenal in the playoff run to the Robertson Cup, posting a 6-0 record with a 1.39 GAA. Currently playing hockey with the University of Alaska - Fairbanks.
- Lars Paulgaard - 2006/2007 - Solid and durable, played in 51 regular season games posting a record of 30-18 with 2.54 GAA. He was a rock in the nets for the Express during the 2nd season. Currently playing hockey at the University of Denver in the WCHA.
- Scott Pederson - 2007/2008 - 18-15-4 with a 3.78 GAA playing behind a defense with some questionable talent. Absolutely dominant at times, and very good in shootouts. Currently playing hockey in ?????????.
Allright, make a case for your guy in the comments section.
--BK
Thursday Update
Well, thanks to a nasty virus called "Antivirus XP 2008", I now have a brand new computer. If you happen to see that pop-up on your computer, get your checkbook out, because it will be expensive.
- There is a write-up about all of the Central Division coaches on the NAHL website. You can read it here: http://www.nahl.com/news/story.cfm?id=553 It was a fairly brief article, and had a couple of paragraphs on our favorite coach.
- Don't forget that you can park at the old Hardee's lot if you're going to the fair. It's only $3, and the proceeds go to the Express.
- You can still buy season tickets at the lower price through Friday, so get yours today.
The comments feature is open, and don't forget you can contact me privately at owatonnaexpress@yahoo.com.
Thanks for reading.
--BK
- There is a write-up about all of the Central Division coaches on the NAHL website. You can read it here: http://www.nahl.com/news/story.cfm?id=553 It was a fairly brief article, and had a couple of paragraphs on our favorite coach.
- Don't forget that you can park at the old Hardee's lot if you're going to the fair. It's only $3, and the proceeds go to the Express.
- You can still buy season tickets at the lower price through Friday, so get yours today.
The comments feature is open, and don't forget you can contact me privately at owatonnaexpress@yahoo.com.
Thanks for reading.
--BK
Monday, August 11, 2008
Technical Difficulties
My computer melted down on Sunday, so it's going to be a couple of days before I can post anything new.
Also, I shut down the comments feature until I get my new computer up and running.
--BK
Also, I shut down the comments feature until I get my new computer up and running.
--BK
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Setting the Record Straight
There have been a lot of conversations and subsequent confusion in the last few weeks pertaining to a couple of topics. The first one is the organizational structure of the franchise, and their reasons for getting involved with this team. Secondly, there are some misunderstandings in relation to some of the changes that have been made going into the 2008/2009 season. This has been bothering me and many other people, and I am going to lay out my opinion, in an attempt to get everybody on the same page.
Firstly, I have been a fan of the Express since the very beginning. I remember the excitement I felt in early 2005, as I read the People’s Press articles about a possible Junior A franchise coming to Owatonna. I have supported the team in a variety of ways through the first 3 seasons, and I will continue to support the team no matter what kind of ownership structure is in place. Over time, I have met, and gotten to know many of the folks who stepped up and brought junior hockey back to Owatonna this summer. The common thread with all these people is a love for the sport of hockey, and a desire to keep it viable in the city of Owatonna. Even with the economy in the tank, many of these folks donated tens of thousands of dollars of their own money to make this happen. The only agenda I have seen, is to have a team on the ice this winter. Very simply, without the generosity and dedication of these folks, we would not have a team! After everything that has happened, it is deplorable for anyone to question the motives of the organization. Numerous meetings were held, and everybody had the opportunity to have their opinions heard. A Board of Governors was elected (not appointed) from this group of donators, and they were given the task of running this franchise. That’s the way it works in a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Nobody expects everybody to agree on all matters pertaining to the team, but you have to trust the board to do what is in the best interest of the franchise. If you feel left out of the conversation, I’m sure they would be happy to accept your donation, and include you in the meetings. Bottom line: These people went out on a limb to keep junior hockey in Owatonna, and we should all be forever grateful.
Secondly, yes there have been many changes made going into this season. With the first 2 ownership groups, there had always been somebody there that could afford to keep the team afloat financially. With the current ownership structure we do not have that luxury, there is no “Daddy Warbucks”, and there is no secret money tree. Yes the team is still called the “Express”, but it cannot be operated the same way it was the first 3 seasons. This team is going to have to make money to succeed. They cannot afford to give things away. Allowing rain check tickets, vouchers, beer bucks etc… was something the previous owners could afford to do. If you took advantage of those opportunities the first 3 seasons, great, you worked the system as it was setup, and hopefully it made you a fan of junior hockey. But the system has now changed, and we all need to make adjustments. The powers that be listened to the supporters of the team, and Coaches Cullen and Fink were brought back, ticket prices were lowered, and playoff tickets were included in your season ticket package. A general manager and a sales manager were hired. The organization has taken huge steps to make this franchise into the 1st class operation we as fans desire.
What it all boils down to is that if the donations and sales (tickets, merchandise, etc..) don’t meet or exceed the expenses (ice-time, staff salaries, etc…), this whole thing will not succeed. That is where all the rest of us come into play. The fans are going to make or break this team. So please, do your part to support this team. The organization still needs donations, so help out in that respect. If you can’t afford to donate, (it’s tax-deductible by the way), buy season tickets, or buy single game tickets, or buy merchandise, or volunteer to help the team on game nights. This team belongs to Owatonna, but Owatonna needs to get behind the team. I want to be able to watch junior hockey in Owatonna, and I hope you do too.
Sorry to get all preachy, but I feel something needed to be said.
--Big Kahuna
P.S. – I mentioned above that playoff tickets are included in the season ticket package. This has been confirmed by the organization. Also, remember that the price of season tickets is lower if you buy them before August 15th, so buy them soon.
Firstly, I have been a fan of the Express since the very beginning. I remember the excitement I felt in early 2005, as I read the People’s Press articles about a possible Junior A franchise coming to Owatonna. I have supported the team in a variety of ways through the first 3 seasons, and I will continue to support the team no matter what kind of ownership structure is in place. Over time, I have met, and gotten to know many of the folks who stepped up and brought junior hockey back to Owatonna this summer. The common thread with all these people is a love for the sport of hockey, and a desire to keep it viable in the city of Owatonna. Even with the economy in the tank, many of these folks donated tens of thousands of dollars of their own money to make this happen. The only agenda I have seen, is to have a team on the ice this winter. Very simply, without the generosity and dedication of these folks, we would not have a team! After everything that has happened, it is deplorable for anyone to question the motives of the organization. Numerous meetings were held, and everybody had the opportunity to have their opinions heard. A Board of Governors was elected (not appointed) from this group of donators, and they were given the task of running this franchise. That’s the way it works in a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Nobody expects everybody to agree on all matters pertaining to the team, but you have to trust the board to do what is in the best interest of the franchise. If you feel left out of the conversation, I’m sure they would be happy to accept your donation, and include you in the meetings. Bottom line: These people went out on a limb to keep junior hockey in Owatonna, and we should all be forever grateful.
Secondly, yes there have been many changes made going into this season. With the first 2 ownership groups, there had always been somebody there that could afford to keep the team afloat financially. With the current ownership structure we do not have that luxury, there is no “Daddy Warbucks”, and there is no secret money tree. Yes the team is still called the “Express”, but it cannot be operated the same way it was the first 3 seasons. This team is going to have to make money to succeed. They cannot afford to give things away. Allowing rain check tickets, vouchers, beer bucks etc… was something the previous owners could afford to do. If you took advantage of those opportunities the first 3 seasons, great, you worked the system as it was setup, and hopefully it made you a fan of junior hockey. But the system has now changed, and we all need to make adjustments. The powers that be listened to the supporters of the team, and Coaches Cullen and Fink were brought back, ticket prices were lowered, and playoff tickets were included in your season ticket package. A general manager and a sales manager were hired. The organization has taken huge steps to make this franchise into the 1st class operation we as fans desire.
What it all boils down to is that if the donations and sales (tickets, merchandise, etc..) don’t meet or exceed the expenses (ice-time, staff salaries, etc…), this whole thing will not succeed. That is where all the rest of us come into play. The fans are going to make or break this team. So please, do your part to support this team. The organization still needs donations, so help out in that respect. If you can’t afford to donate, (it’s tax-deductible by the way), buy season tickets, or buy single game tickets, or buy merchandise, or volunteer to help the team on game nights. This team belongs to Owatonna, but Owatonna needs to get behind the team. I want to be able to watch junior hockey in Owatonna, and I hope you do too.
Sorry to get all preachy, but I feel something needed to be said.
--Big Kahuna
P.S. – I mentioned above that playoff tickets are included in the season ticket package. This has been confirmed by the organization. Also, remember that the price of season tickets is lower if you buy them before August 15th, so buy them soon.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Steele County Fair Parking
If you're going to the fair next week, and are wondering where you are going to park, I have an answer for you: the old Hardee's parking lot. The best part is you'll be supporting our favorite junior A hockey team, the Owatonna Express. It's close to the fairgrounds, and only costs $5.00, which will go to supporting the Express. It's a no-lose situation, and you won't find any parking closer to the mini-donut stand. See you there.
--BK
--BK
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Two Month Anniversary
Today marks the beginning of the third month of the blog. Yes there has been a few rough days, but overall, I couldn't have envisioned things going any better than they have. I can't wait for the season to start, and just think about how much stuff we'll have to talk about then.
- I created an email address so that I can be contacted in private. If you want to talk to me, or have a tip or some news about the Express, feel free to drop me a line at owatonnaexpress@yahoo.com.
- I added a counter to the website on July 9th. It counts how many different people come to the blog on a daily basis. We are at over 3000 visitors in less than a month, and it's the middle of summer. It should get really busy once the season starts.
- I have done profiles of all of the players who have been officially announced. Apparently the NAHL has a rule that rosters cannot be announced until all of the tryout camps from each team have been completed, so there won't be any new profiles for a little while.
- I'm kicking around the idea of moving the blog to its own website. I would like to have a more traditional message board, as opposed to the comment feature as it works now, and that is not possible on Blogspot. It would also allow me to do some more things which aren't practical currently. The problem is I need to learn how to run a website, and it would cost some money for bandwidth etc.. We'll see what happens down the line.
Anyways, thanks for reading, and thanks to the people who have contributed comments. I'll see you at the rink.
--Big Kahuna
- I created an email address so that I can be contacted in private. If you want to talk to me, or have a tip or some news about the Express, feel free to drop me a line at owatonnaexpress@yahoo.com.
- I added a counter to the website on July 9th. It counts how many different people come to the blog on a daily basis. We are at over 3000 visitors in less than a month, and it's the middle of summer. It should get really busy once the season starts.
- I have done profiles of all of the players who have been officially announced. Apparently the NAHL has a rule that rosters cannot be announced until all of the tryout camps from each team have been completed, so there won't be any new profiles for a little while.
- I'm kicking around the idea of moving the blog to its own website. I would like to have a more traditional message board, as opposed to the comment feature as it works now, and that is not possible on Blogspot. It would also allow me to do some more things which aren't practical currently. The problem is I need to learn how to run a website, and it would cost some money for bandwidth etc.. We'll see what happens down the line.
Anyways, thanks for reading, and thanks to the people who have contributed comments. I'll see you at the rink.
--Big Kahuna
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Player Profile - Tony McDonald
Tony McDonald - 5'10"/170lbs - Forward
1988 birth year from New Brighton, Minnesota. Tony was acquired from the Kenai River Brown Bears in a trade shortly before the NAHL draft. The Express traded their 3rd and 5th round draft picks for his rights. He played his high school hockey at Totino-Grace, scoring 15 goals and 36 assists his senior year (06/07). He participated in the 2006 Fall Elite league, the 2006 Minnesota Model Camp, and the 2007 Ted Brill Great 8. He was drafted by the Sioux Falls Stampede in the 15th round of the 2007 USHL draft, and also attended their tryout camp this summer. Last season he played 3 games at the showcase with the Alexandria Blizzard, before being traded to Kenai River. He was chosen as the NAHL's South Division Player of the Week December 27th. He ended up the 4th leading scorer(11 goals/19 assists) for the Brown Bears, and would have been one of their key players this year, but he wanted to play his last year of juniors closer to home.
My take: As a guy with a year of juniors under his belt, he'll be looked on to provide some quality minutes for the Express. He kind of reminds me of Vince Unklesbay from last year's team. Hopefully getting out of Alaska and being able to play closer to home, translates into even better scoring numbers than he put up last year. I think this was a good move for the Express, getting a known quantity for 2 draft picks that may or may not have panned out in the long run.
Welcome to Owatonna Tony McDonald, and see you in September.
1988 birth year from New Brighton, Minnesota. Tony was acquired from the Kenai River Brown Bears in a trade shortly before the NAHL draft. The Express traded their 3rd and 5th round draft picks for his rights. He played his high school hockey at Totino-Grace, scoring 15 goals and 36 assists his senior year (06/07). He participated in the 2006 Fall Elite league, the 2006 Minnesota Model Camp, and the 2007 Ted Brill Great 8. He was drafted by the Sioux Falls Stampede in the 15th round of the 2007 USHL draft, and also attended their tryout camp this summer. Last season he played 3 games at the showcase with the Alexandria Blizzard, before being traded to Kenai River. He was chosen as the NAHL's South Division Player of the Week December 27th. He ended up the 4th leading scorer(11 goals/19 assists) for the Brown Bears, and would have been one of their key players this year, but he wanted to play his last year of juniors closer to home.
My take: As a guy with a year of juniors under his belt, he'll be looked on to provide some quality minutes for the Express. He kind of reminds me of Vince Unklesbay from last year's team. Hopefully getting out of Alaska and being able to play closer to home, translates into even better scoring numbers than he put up last year. I think this was a good move for the Express, getting a known quantity for 2 draft picks that may or may not have panned out in the long run.
Welcome to Owatonna Tony McDonald, and see you in September.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Player Profile - Troy Puente
Troy Puente - 5'9"/185lbs - Defenseman
1988 birth year from Thousand Oaks, California. Troy spent the last 2 seasons in the NAHL with the Texas Tornado. In 2006/2007 he played in 64 games, scoring 2 goals and 7 assists. In 2007/2008 he played in 61 games, scoring 2 goals, 33 assists, and finished +1. He was teammates with forward John Kruse, who will also play with the Express this season. He has played in the last 2 Chowder Cup Tournaments, and also spent some time with the LA Junior Kings Midget Major program. Check him out in action here: http://www.texastornadobc.com/Galleries/New_TTBC_Galleries-INDEX/Player%20Pictures/2007-2008%20Player%20Pics/04%20Puente/index.html
My take: I look for Troy to be the veteran leader of this young team, and it wouldn't surprise me if he was named captain. He has good vision on the ice, and is very good at passing the puck. For those of you who attended tryout camp, he was the defenseman sporting the stylish "Fu Manchu" moustache. I chatted with him a couple of times at camp, and he seems very personable, and well-spoken. He needs to play a big role with the Express this year, and I hope he is up for it.
Welcome to Owatonna Troy Puente.
1988 birth year from Thousand Oaks, California. Troy spent the last 2 seasons in the NAHL with the Texas Tornado. In 2006/2007 he played in 64 games, scoring 2 goals and 7 assists. In 2007/2008 he played in 61 games, scoring 2 goals, 33 assists, and finished +1. He was teammates with forward John Kruse, who will also play with the Express this season. He has played in the last 2 Chowder Cup Tournaments, and also spent some time with the LA Junior Kings Midget Major program. Check him out in action here: http://www.texastornadobc.com/Galleries/New_TTBC_Galleries-INDEX/Player%20Pictures/2007-2008%20Player%20Pics/04%20Puente/index.html
My take: I look for Troy to be the veteran leader of this young team, and it wouldn't surprise me if he was named captain. He has good vision on the ice, and is very good at passing the puck. For those of you who attended tryout camp, he was the defenseman sporting the stylish "Fu Manchu" moustache. I chatted with him a couple of times at camp, and he seems very personable, and well-spoken. He needs to play a big role with the Express this year, and I hope he is up for it.
Welcome to Owatonna Troy Puente.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Congratulations Nathan Hardy!!
Also from Friday's People's Press via the St. Cloud Times: Former Express goalie Nathan Hardy will be the 3rd goalie for the St. Cloud State Huskies in the WCHA this season.
My take: Good things happen to good people, and I couldn't be happier that this happened for Nate. In the interest of keeping things positive around here, I won't go into all the ways Nate was wronged last year. Those of you who closely followed the team last year know the story. I assume he will red-shirt this year, and with a season of proper coaching, will be pushing for playing time in 2009/2010.
--BK
My take: Good things happen to good people, and I couldn't be happier that this happened for Nate. In the interest of keeping things positive around here, I won't go into all the ways Nate was wronged last year. Those of you who closely followed the team last year know the story. I assume he will red-shirt this year, and with a season of proper coaching, will be pushing for playing time in 2009/2010.
--BK
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