National day for truth and reconciliation - 30 September 2022

Story by Steve Erickson

Beginning today and as Canada moves forward September 30th will officially mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

This day honours the children who never returned home and all the survivors of residential schools as well as their families as well as their communities.

Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots day which is intended to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impact of all residential schools.

It is to make us aware that “Every Child Matters” and orange shirt day is a symbol of stripping away of freedom, culture and the self-esteem which was experienced by all Indigenous children over past generations.

Across Canada there will be hundreds of activities taking place to commemorate the history and legacy of residential schools.

To commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and to honour the survivors, their families and their communities various buildings across Canada will be illuminated Orange from September 30th at 7 pm to sunrise October 1st, which includes the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill.

It’s reported that there were 140 federally run residential schools that operated between 1867 and 1996

Mental Health Support

If you are experiencing issues caused from this emotional crisis former residential school students are urged to call 1-866-925-4419.

Indigenous peoples across Canada can also visit The Hope for Wellness Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for counselling and crisis intervention

The toll free help line is 1-855-242-3310

SPORTSWAVE SUPPORTS National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Story by Rocky Rhodes

For every sports team or league changes are a way  in which to grow their game and this is no different with the BCHL.

Their product both on and off the ice continues to grow as they manage to send players to a higher level of the game in hopes of helping them achieve their dream.

Locally in the lower mainland we have seen the PJHL increase their game schedule from a 44 game season to playing 48 games in the season.

While this is a significant increase; another topic of conversation is if the league plans on adding an additional team in Port Coquitlam, bringing the total number to 14.

This subject came up after the opening of the newest sports facility in Port Coquitlamwhich is home to the Port Coquitlam Saints in the  BC Junior A Lacrosse, but any addition is clearly an executive decision!

The BCHL is dealing with various issues over the past seasons in hopes of making Junior hockey in Canada more exciting for the fans.

The BCHL recently put together a “game plan” with their sights set to improve Junior hockey which was entitled Modernizing Junior Hockey in Canada.

Thanks to the BCHL for the press release and enjoy the read and feel free to offer your thoughts on this topic.

It has been sent to Hockey Canada 

The BCHL is entering it’s sixth decade of operation and is the best it has ever been at helping 16-20 year old athletes pursue a junior hockey career in  Canada and beyond.

This success has been achieved despite certain systemic barriers that need to be addressed through the revision of the  current Canadian Development Model.

The BCHL operates in a system that penalizes elite players for choosing to play college-tracking junior hockey, instead of Major Junior in their home country.

Our development model penalized players by placing discriminatory regulatory restrictions on their movement and participation in Canada.

This forces many players into decisions to leave the Canadian system entirely.

While the rules were likely devised with good intentions, they are proving to be unfair to some of our best young athletes, their individual development, and their families.

These regulations do not recognize the changing development patterns that have emerged since they were written 17 years ago, including the significant growth of leagues like the BCHL that have invested in an athlete-centric path.

This paper outlines where the system has failed and how we can better develop these players in Canada.

It is important to note that the writing of this white paper is not, in any way related to the recent crisis surrounding Hockey Canada.

Our position was tabled with Hockey Canada long ago and has been ignored.

However, given the appointment of  a former Supreme Court of Canada Justice Thomas Cromwell to perform an independent review of Hockey Canada’s governance structure, the BCHL believes its long-held concerns are relevant to this review.

Our objective is to have a  frank, open and constructive discussion on the future of college-tracking junior hockey.

Hockey Canada should support the path that has been created by college-tracking junior leagues, even though it may not fit the ideals of the CDM.

We are calling for a thorough discussion on the state of junior hockey in general and, specifically, supporting the path to college for Canadian athletes.

BC Hockey and the Governance Review Committee overseeing the examination of Hockey Canada’s structure and leadership. 

The document addresses the following sections of the committee’s Terms of Reference:

Section 4: Is the Senior Management Team properly structured and constituted to oversee the operations of Hockey Canada, from the grassroots level to the high-performance level?

Section 5: In the area of governance, are there any other recommendations for actions that the Board of Directors and senior management could take to improve the confidence Canadians have in Hockey Canada?

Let us know your thoughts? E-mail thelockerroom@eastlink.ca

Story by Steve Erickson

As with any team the season wouldn’t be complete without some additions to any team regardless of the sport.

The Giants are set to kickoff the season in just over 24 hours with minor tweeks being made to the opening line-up dressed.

Some are surprised with the move, while others are never shocked with any player movement after training camp is completed.

In a recent press release sent out from Jamison we hear that Giants GM Barclay Parneta announced that they have acquired a third-round draft pick (2023) from the Lethbridge Hurricanes in exchange for 2002-born forward Cole Shepard.

In 28 games last season with the Giants, 2002-born forward Cole Shepard scored 7 goals and added 13 assists for 20 points. 

In his WHL career, he has 49 points in 78 games. Shepard was originally drafted by Vancouver in Round 2 of the 2017 WHL Prospects Draft.

Third-round draft picks on the Giants roster include Ty Thorpe, Ethan Semeniuk, Carson Haynes, and Matthew Hutchison.

To no real surprise we are hearing that the Giants continue to make waves putting their mark on major junior hockey in Canada.

Also received the following from Jamison, which is appreciated.

The Canadian Hockey League announced today that the Vancouver Giants and the Langley Events Centre will host the 2023 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on January 25, 2023.

“We are excited to see the 2023 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game return to Metro Vancouver,” said Dan MacKenzie, President, Canadian Hockey League. “Always an anticipated event on our calendar, the Kubota CHL/NHL 

Top Prospects Game showcases the stars of tomorrow, while the coming NHL Draft class promises to be a strong showing for our league, headlined by a hometown hero and fan favourite in Connor Bedard of the Regina Pats.”

The Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game showcases top NHL Draft eligible talent from across the Ontario Hockey League, Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, and Western Hockey League competing before hundreds of NHL scouts in attendance.

“Kubota Canada Ltd. is looking forward to working with the Canadian Hockey League and Vancouver Giants as the event visits Metro Vancouver,” said Steve Sweetnam, Director, Marketing, Kubota Canada.

“The 2023 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game represents a great opportunity for fans to see some exceptional emerging hockey talent.”

The 2023 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game marks the 27th showcase and the third time the event will be held in the Vancouver market following previous games in 2005 and 2016. 

In all, 12 players from the Giants have participated in the showcase, most recently Justin Sourdif in 2020 who was later selected 87th overall by the Florida Panthers in the 2020 NHL Draft.

“The Vancouver Giants are very excited to host one of our nation’s premier hockey events and showcase the elite prospects of junior hockey in our state-of-the-art facility at the Langley Events Centre,” said Dale Saip, Senior Vice-President, Vancouver Giants.

Since its reintroduction as the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game in 1996, the event has featured 15 players who were later selected first overall in the NHL Draft.

Those players include 

• Alexis Lafreniere (2020), 
• Nico Hischier (2017), 
• Connor McDavid (2015), 
• Aaron Ekblad (2014), 
• Nathan MacKinnon (2013), 
• Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (2011), 
• Taylor Hall (2010), 
• John Tavares (2009), 
• Steven Stamkos (2008), 
• Patrick Kane (2007), 
• Marc-Andre Fleury (2003), Rick Nash (2002), 
• Vincent Lecavalier (1998), 
• Joe Thornton (1997), 
• Chris Phillips (1996).

The Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game was last held in Kitchener in March 2022 where Team White defeated Team Red 3-1. 

Jagger Firkus (Team White/Moose Jaw Warriors) and Shane Wright (Team Red/Kingston Frontenacs) were named Players of the Game and were both later selected by the Seattle Kraken in the 2022 NHL Draft.

In all, 38 players who competed in the 2022 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game were chosen in the 2022 NHL Draft headlined by Wright at fourth overall.

More information about the 2023 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game including team rosters and coaches will be announced at a later date. 

Tickets to the 2023 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game will be available to the public in mid-October. 

To receive ticket and event information once available visit chl.ca/2023-top-prospects-information.

Story by Steve Erickson

Given the recent scandal reports we are hearing concerning Hockey Canada one is sad enough, now we are hearing of inappropriate behaviour regarding a retired NHL player.

One has to question if it’s money, power one can offer or if it’s simply the booze taking its course in which athletes in all sports get caught up in the glory money can bring?

Earlier in the day, I received some news that just hit the airwaves and after checking we feel its important to share only due to the nature of what has been passed on. 

Thanks Randy for the Info!!

The player in question is retired NHLer Willie Mitchell who is being questioned of a trip that took place during the “Race for the Blue” held at the Tofino Resort and Marina from September 10th-17th.

For those in the area many know that Willie calls Port McNeill which is located on the northern part of majestic Vancouver Island

Upon hearing of this incident it was officially cancelled and on their website the notice read “This year’s Race for the Blue tournament has been cancelled, we are grateful for the cooperation and understanding of participants and sponsors.”

Reportedly that the resort is giving support for their staff and at present not willing to comment on the allegations brought forward.

The resort posted the following statement on their website which states “We were extremely upset to hear about highly inappropriate behaviour connected to one of our annual events,” and quickly replaced other content about the fishing event.

“Our first concern is for our staff, and we are responding to the needs of those affected. We have brought in an interim manager and continue to take steps to ensure the absolute safety and wellbeing of our team.”

In a report to CHEK News in Victoria co-owner Andrew Purdey of Tofino Resort and Marina mentioned he has been on-site at the resort for 24 hours and is looking to find out more information about what allegedly happened. 

As one would expect he declined any further comment on any specific allegations.

Spokesman for the Island District RCMP Const. Alex Berube mentioned that he has not recommended charges stemming from the event and thus could not confirm or deny that it was investigated.

The incident allegedly happened late into the evening Sunday going into Monday morning there’s videotaped evidence of the two interacting on the dance floor and then the allegations are he barricaded her in some sort of room or bathroom where the alleged rape happened.

Let’s nor forget that Willie called Port McNeill home in the off-season which is a small town of some 3,000 fans at the local arena along with Al Edwards who coached Willie at a young age.

He played for the Kelowna Spartans in the BCJHL during the 1994-95 season playing 42 games collecting 3 goals, 8 assists that saw him move on the following season to play for the Melfort Mustangs.

He then played in the ECAC at Clarkson University for two seasons (1997-98/1998-99) and the following season he played for the Albany River Rats in the AHL.

Willie was drafted by Minnesota in the 1996 Entry Draft in the 8th round and was the 10th pick making him the 199th overall selection.

His first full season in the NHL was the 2000-01 season with the Devils playing 16 games then moving on to the Wild where he played for five seasons.

His first full season with the Canucks was in 2005-06 where he was a member for four years then getting traded to the Kings where he won the Stanley Cup and finished his last two seasons with the Panthers.

Following his retirement he focused on a different challenge bought the resort in 2016, along with another former Canucks defenceman, Dan Hamhuis, and developer Andrew Purdy..

While the above at present are allegations, don’t jump the gun and let this play out in full!!

Story by Steve Erickson

Given the recent departure of Dan O’Connor from the broadcast booth to UBC, the Vancouver Giants were searching for someone to take over the mic duties.

There is no doubt that the one sitting in the chair next to broadcast veteran Bill Wilms will be one who has an understanding of the game.

The search was on and no doubt there were probably many who felt that they can take on the task, but whoever it would be will have a workload of duties.

I am pleased to mention that good friend and former Columbia Academy student Eddie Gregory (40) will be the one taking over the duties. He has been the voice of the Coquitlam Express for the past 16 seasons and has learned much from the first time he was behind the mic.

Learning is something that no broadcaster can ever stop and the day he or she feels they know more than they actually do, it’s time to take up another job.

Learning is an on-going job, but along with that they must have a passion for the game and I remember hearing Jim Robson saying “Your are the eyes of the listener and it’s important to be able to convey this to them.”

Jim was a true professional and took his skills from his early years of broadcasting baseball to having the broadcast booth named after him at Rogers Arena.

I spoke to Eddie in the parking lot at the Ladner Leisure Centre when we were both entering the rink for day two of the Vancouver Giants Training Camp and he was like a “kid in a candy shop.”

Personally I’m excited for Eddie on new venture and mentioned that if he needs any assistance, I along with others are here to help him  – it’s a journey and he’s not alone.

 Vancouver Giants VP, Operations Assistant GM Peter Toigo mentioned “Eddie is an experienced and well-connected individual in the Vancouver sports media scene; we feel that he will be a great asset as the voice of the Vancouver Giants organization.” 

Eddie Gregory adds, “I’m really excited to be making the jump to the Giants and the WHL. I’m grateful to the Coquitlam Express for my time with them to develop my passion and take this next step in the hockey ladder.” 

He continued “It’s a great honour to follow in the footsteps of my friends Dan O’Connor and Brendan Batchelor here with the Giants. I’m eager to get going real soon.”

Jamison Derksen has now been promoted to the role of Director of Media Relations.

In addition to hiring Eddie they released the following press release,Giants Hire Seabrook.

Giants GM Barclay Parneta announced today that Brent Seabrook (Delta, B.C.) will be joining the Vancouver Giants as a Player Development Coach.

Seabrook debuted as a Western Hockey League coach during a stint this past season assisting Keith McCambridge behind the bench while Michael Dyck was away at the World Juniors.

“We are pleased that Brent is returning to the Giants this season,” said GM Barclay Parneta. “His experience in the game is incredibly valuable and his input can have a massive impact on our culture.”

Brent Seabrook won three Stanley Cups in Chicago (2010, 2013, 2015) and served as an alternate captain for five seasons. 

He scored 103 goals and 361 assists for 464 points in 1114 career NHL games with the Chicago Blackhawks adding 20 goals and 39 assists for 59 points in 123 playoff games.

During his junior career, he played parts of five seasons with the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the Western Hockey League.

Seabrook managed 176 points in 264 games and was selected 14th Overall by the Blackhawks in the 2003 NHL Draft.

“I’m excited to rejoin the Giants after getting involved last season,” adds Brent Seabrook. “I look forward to sharing my experiences with the players and helping develop them as players, and as individuals within the Giants organization.”

Seabrook also wore the maple leaf for Canada six times in his career and medalled five times – three Gold Medals (2010 Winter Olympics, 2005 World Juniors, 2003 World Under-18’s) and two Silver Medals (2004 World Juniors, 2001 World Under-17’s).

Story by Steve Erickson

Kane and Toews’ futures in the NHL remain uncertain with the season starting later this month. 

At the moment, the Chicago Blackhawks are undergoing a rebuilding project, and both Kane and Toews will be facing the end of their contracts soon. 

Are these players likely to sign new contracts with the Blackhawks or will they move on to new teams? 

Kane is the Blackhawks’ best-paid player in history, but he has just one year left on his deal, and he’s reportedly interested in a move away. 

Although the Blackhawks are no doubt keen to retain the nine-time All-Star player, he’s reportedly unsettled and is considering handing in a trade request. 

His high salary could prove a problem for other teams, but he has plenty of ability and would improve most teams in the league.

Toews, who has won the Stanley Cup with the club three times, is also a member of the internationally recognized Triple Gold Club that only has 30 members. 

In their blog, Bonusfinder in Canada has a searchable database of all Olympic gold medallists in ice hockey since 1984 and whether they have won gold in World Championship as well as a Stanley Cup.

Why Do Kane and Toews Want to Leave the Blackhawks?

The Blackhawks had a tough season in the central division in 2021-22 and have barely moved from the bottom of the division in several seasons. 

They last won the Stanley Cup in 2015, and although they reached the playoffs in 2020, they were knocked out in the first round. 

The team is currently undergoing a rebuild project, with general manager Kyle Davidson making several big changes.

Davidson has been busy, trading Alex DeBrincat to the Ottawa Senators. In addition, Kirby Dach was shipped to the Montreal Canadiens, and Dylan Strome and Dominik Kubalik weren’t given qualifying offers. 

With so many big changes to the team, some feel like Kane and Toews could be unsettled. 

Although both are the highest-paid stars in the history of the Blackhawks, they both want the team to be competitive.

Toews has previously called out the management of the Blackhawks, while there are reports that Kane feels all his preferred teammates have been moved on. 

Neither player has handed in a trade request, and with the season fast approaching, it may already be too late to secure a move away. 

However, there’s still time left, and it could be that the trade deadline during the season is a more realistic target for each player to get their move. 

Whom Could Kane Join?

Kane continues to be a strong offensive player despite the Blackhawks’ persistent troubles and the front office’s efforts to rebuild. 

With 66 assists, he placed seventh in the league, and his 92 points tied him for fourteenth place. 

With a salary of $10.5 million, Kane will be difficult to move on. 

There are currently only eight teams in the league that could afford him based on the salary cap.

The Edmonton Oilers are one of the most realistic prospects based on current rumors. 

However, the New York Rangers have also reportedly approached the Blackhawks to open initial discussions about trade. 

Kane may be better off waiting to see which team has the best chance of reaching the playoffs before deciding. 

Where Could Toews End Up?

Toews is in a similar position to Kane, with a salary of $10.5 million that would make it costly for any team to acquire him. 

It’s unlikely he’ll get a contract renewal at Chicago due to Davidson clearing out most players. So that leaves his options limited. 

However, he could still waive his no-movement clause and leave Chicago before the trade deadline. 

He’d still be an excellent addition to any top team looking to contend for the Stanley Cup this season. 

Story by Rocky Rhodes

Over the summer we continued to hear about the ongoing talks with Canucks leading scorer JT Miller who reportedly wanted to remain a Canuck for the foreseeable future.

For Canuck fans, it’s like Christmas came early with the news of J.T. signing a long-term extension beginning at the start of the 2023-24 season.

Miller is set to receive $56 million over seven years at an average salary of $8 per season after his impressive 99 point finishing ninth in NHL scoring.

Canucks GM Patrick Allvin mentioned “J. T. Miller is an impact player in this league and we are thrilled to have him re-signed with the Canucks long term.”

Miller came on the scene as a Canuck in 2019 and has been a power forward and has been playing what some consider the best hockey of his career.

He has managed 74 goals along with 217 points in his 202 games in addition to leading the scoring for two of three seasons as a Canuck.

He first came on the scene after being drafted by the Rangers 15th overall in the 2011 Entry Draft suiting up for the Rangers for four seasons.

He was moved to Tampa prior to the trade deadline shortly ahead of the 2017-18 season and with this signing it keeps Miller a Canuck through to the 1019-30 season.

Miller’s highest point total of 99 was the highest since Daniel Sedin managed 104 dating back to the 2010-11 season.

Along with the other Canuck signing, this move should give the team more punch and be more productive up front.

The long anticipated wait is over and since we have turned the calendar to September it’s time to lace up the skates once again.

For many, hockey is a year round sport that some question, but if that’s what your son or daughter want to do embrace the fact that they want to keep active.

My Dad used to tell my sisters that it’s far better and more affordable to keep Steve on the rink than bail him out of jail. Without a focus it’s easy for them to get mixed up with the wrong group.

There is no question that there is pressure on today’s youth given the growth of not just hockey but all sports regardless of where you might live.

We go from spring hockey, to summer tournaments and camps which take us into training camps for not just minor hockey to junior camps.

Understand that not everyone will make the team they attend training for, but don’t let this discourage you from your focus.

There are three things you need to excel in all sports and they are in no particular order which will take you to the end result and success for your overall development.

You can and will only achieve success if you have what I refer to as Pride, Hustle and Desire which crosses over from one sport to another.

Coaches push, Parents shove and in some cases Owners, Managers or Scouts put pressure on you to sign with their club, but don’t rush!!

Locally in the lower mainland the pro’s are skating, junior A, B and the academies have been on the ice for a while so as to set their season roster.

As a parent before you let your son or daughter sign anything, do your due diligence and check out not just the league, but also the team’s overall operation.

I say this in all honesty as one who has heard some interesting stories about teams in various areas which also involves the town or city the team is located in.

I was recently asked to check out a new team located in Northern BC called the Burns Lake Timbermen which I sent an email to the first of the week.

It is interesting that after contacting some of my sources no one has heard of this team and as one who can wish they are legit there is no excuse in today’s world for not getting a reply.

I am told that this is a ten team league that has teams in northern BC as well as northern Alberta and is located in an area that does not have BCHL teams in or near that area.

All leagues are fighting for the almighty dollar, which for any team in any city is hard to come by, but regardless their fan base remains consistent from season to season.

Some ask why some teams draw far better than another team in the same area and it’s not just about the on-ice product, but how the club gets involved in their community.

I see some teams in various areas out at schools, senior centres or community events letting the public know that they exist, which in some cases is truly needed.

The clubs who fail to get out in the community normally have a lack of attendance either at the rink or even at the community coffee shop.

In our area of Delta the WHL Vancouver Giants have started camp, while the PJHL teamshave been on the ice for some time and are playing pre-season games.

Regardless of the club, team or league you support, we encourage you to first be a proud parent and not one who thinks their son  or daughter is going to take you out of the poor house and put you living in the lap of luxury.

First remember that there is only a small percentage who make it to the pro’s and you might be one of the fortunate ones who has a son or daughter achieve success.

Entering the upcoming season we know it’s going to be a magical ride for some while others might have their dream shattered.

Reality say’s be a multi-sport athlete and you’ll always achieve success and have friends for life.

Enjoy your season, regardless of where you play!!