Snipers Cup Champions 2009

Johnston Tycoons

The Tycoons have officially beat the Grossman Flash 42-29 for the 11th Snipers Cup ring.  In what would turn out to be a lack lustre finals, the Tycoons rolled over the Flash getting contributions from all 10 players.  Contributions from all players is definitely the Tycoons hall mark for the 2008-2009 season.  The Tycoons narrowly squeaked by a 2nd round scare from the Heartbreakers and easily took on the 79ers in the semis before moving on to the finals.  Flash were hobbled with injuries, but lacked reliable D and secondary scoring.  The Flash did remain in the match for 5 days, but just ran out of gas and the Tycoons continued their march to the winners circle.  The Tycoons become the 3rd team in SCHL history to win both the Wayne Gretzky and Snipers Cup crowns in the same year and become the 2nd team to win their second Championship.  This is all on top of their 7th division title, 3rd PM and a record breaking 18 game winner streak.  This could go down as one of the best seasons in SCHL history.

(19-2) Tycoons V Flash (16-5)
Score:

42-29
- The Tycoons were just too much for the Flaah
 The 2001 Champs and the 2004 Champs go toe to toe in the 2009 Finals.  This will be the Tycoons 4th time to the dance and the 2nd for the Flash.  The Flash just got by the Jawas in a 24-23 win, with late Saturday Nabby win to seal the deal, while the Tycoons rolled over the 79ers 36-26 in a match many thought the 79ers would win.  This finals has to be billed Ovy v Kovy, two fellow Russians, but there's a hell of a lot to these teams than those superstars.  Both teams have stellar goal tending (#1 and #2), great D (#1 and #4) and awesome forwards (#2 and #6).  In a look at the man games it looks as the possible man games are 46-45 for the Flash, so there are no excuses this time around.

This finals will mark the first time in history two former champs are going for it, making the winner the second repeat champion after the Heartbreakers.  Despite both teams length of time in the SCHL and their success, they're isn't much history between these two teams.  They've only played each other 7 times over 10 years, with the Flash owning the lifetime record of 4-3 and have never played each other in the post season.  However, that all changes this week as they clash in the 10 day finals to coronate the 11th Snipers Champion. There's not much else to say that hasn't been said...there's money, history and the cup on the line.- The Johnston Tycoons hold the tiebreak.

38-28




 

36-26

(19-2) Tycoons V 79ers (13-6-2)
The Tycoons squeeze into the Frozen Four by the skin of their teeth, after narrowly beating the Heartbreakers by one point with the use of their four point head start.  What looked to be a lock of a win for the league's top team, become a emotional roll coaster, with the Tycoons' best players not showing up.  The Tycoons move on to the Frozen Four for the 3rd time in 4 years and 1st time since 2007.

The 79ers have ensured that there won't be a repeat this year after trouncing the Bullets in a wash in the quarter-finals.  The Bullets had made it a week coming to within three points of the 79ers, but after laying eggs in consecutive days, the 79ers punched their ticket to their 3rd Frozen Four appearance in 4 year.  The 79ers are the only non-bye team to enter the F4 and they're red hot after bouncing the Goldminers and Bullets.

The Rub: An old Stafford Division rivalry renewed once again.  This marks the 2nd time these two teams have faced each other in the post season.  The Tycoons dispatched the 79ers in the Frozen Four back in 2006 on their way to facing the Rowdy Kilts in the finals.  The Tycoons are coming off a mediocre week and now face a hot, heavy on the man games 79ers, with Washington only going twice. One thing is certain, the finals will feature a former SCHL champ.  Playoff records: Tycoons 10-7, 79ers 7-6, and the Tycoons own the life time record at 13-4-1. - Tycoons hold the tie break.

23-24

(16-4-1) Jawas V  Flash (16-5)
The Jawas easily put the Barracudas in the coffin last week, getting their first ever SCHL post season victory and now they move into the Frozen Four.  Malkin and Alfredsson stepped up in a big way to make sure it!

The Flash have quietly moved back into their second straight Frozen Four.  Last week they ran up against a hot/cold Vanguard and took care of business despite Kovalchuk missing some time.

The Rub: Teams two and three in the WG race (this year and last) meet up in a uncommon post season match, having never faced each other in the post season.  Like the Tycoons, the Flash will be holding their breath for ever Penguins power play.  The Jawas hope Turco can regain his game as the heat is turned up against the Flash.  The Flash are the 3rd former champ in the F4, making it 3 for 4.  The Jawas are the last hope for new blood!   Playoff records: Jawas 1-4, Flash 7-5, and the Flash own the life time record at 5-4. - Flash hold the tie break.



Round 2 (Quarter-Finals) - After Day 6
-
Mammoth night for the Heartbreakers...should be a doozey tomorrow...
- The Jawas poised to be heading to the Frozen four ...
- Down by 7, the Bullets will need a miracle now...
-Payback is a bitch...Flash all but lock up a birth in the Frozen Four...

26-25

(19-2) Tycoons V Heartbreakers (11-9-1)
Tycoons return to action this week after posting a league high 36 pts during their one week holiday.  History was made this year as The Boardroom faithful watched 18 straights W's pile up with majority coming in convincing fashion.  However, their regular season ended on a sour note in a loss to the Bullets.  The Tycoons hope to get back on a new winning streak in the second season, but a loss now would make the season a complete disappointment despite winning the Premier and PM crowns.

Heartbreakers pulled off the minor "upset" defeating a small HS and a depleted Triads team.  Backed by solid production from Olli Jokinen and Zach Parise, the Heartbreakers have advanced to the second round for the first time since their last championship in 2003.

The Rub: This marks the 3rd time in history these two have squared off in the post season.  The 1st time coming 10 years ago when the Heartbreakers beat the Tycoons in the finals for their first championship and the second coming in 2003 in the first round, before the HB Sauce won their last cup.  The Heartbreakers have their work cut out this time around, however, as they face the top team with their top players going four times (Washington  x4).  While Kipper does only go twice so does the Heartbreakers hottest scorer.  The Heartbreakers have nothing to lose here and hope their loosey goosey play will carry them into the Frozen Four?  Playoff records: Tycoons 9-7, Heartbreakers 14-3, and the Tycoons own the life time record at 7-2. - Tycoons hold the tie break.

27-14

(16-4-1) Jawas V Barracudas (13-8)
The Jawas finished with the regular season with second best record in both the standings and currently in the WG.  Like the Tycoons, the Jawas are well above their competitors in the WG race and boast a team full of PPG forwards.  It is very rare to find an off-week from this club.  The Jawas are not infallible as they have fought injuries problems on D all year long and are not deep by way of subs.  Having never won a post season match, the Jawas will feel the pressure and hope to shake the pretender status.

The Barracudas survived a close call and edged out the Gryphons, in what can be considered the stinker match of the opening around.  This will be their first advancement since 2003.  They can thank their lucky stars they didn't face the Kilts as expected in round 1, as they would be on the outside looking in.  Nonetheless, the second round is here for the 'Cudas. 

The Rub: These team surprisingly matchup well on forward and D, but the Barracudas will need Price to continue his lock down of the #1 spot on the Habs to match Turco.  If that can happen this match could go either way, with the Sedins going 4 times tho, it won't be easy for the Cudas.  Obviously, a  betting man would pick the Jawas, but the Barracudas are not to be discounted as they have shown over the course of the season to be the real deal posting monster weeks and dispatching good teams without remorse.  The SCHL is guaranteed to have a new contestant into its Frozen Four...who will pounce?   Playoff records: Jawas 0-4, Barracudas 2-3, and the Jawas own the life time record at 3-2-1. - Barracudas hold the tie break.

22-29

(16-4-1) Bullets V 79ers (13-6-2)
The defending champs start their 2009 campaign against the 07 champs.  The Bullets have had a weird season.  They were able to get some relatively low scoring/close weeks won before providing a more expected and consistent output.  For example, they won 5 weeks by 9 total points.  Things are clicking as good as they can for this club now, with Kane and Toews back, MAF starting and winning and Suter emerging as a real deal Dman.

The 79ers welcomed the Goldminers to the playoffs with a 17 point victory.  Heavy with man games last week the 79ers were able to completely control and dictate the pace against the young expansion team.  Ashterisk proved once again he knows what it takes to win when it counts, like making countless subs and trades.

The Rub:  2007 Champs v 2008 Champs - how fitting?  The 79ers enjoyed the comforts of playing a expansion team, but now the heat is turned up against one of the hottest teams in the league.  The Bullet's best player,  Iginla, only goes twice, while Thornton goes four times.  That is the major difference between these two clubs in terms of key players.  The 79ers have the horsepower to beat anyone, but will it be enough to move them back to the familiar confines of the Frozen Four?  Playoff records: Bullets 7-6, 79ers 6-6, and the 79ers own the life time record at 10-5-1. - the Bullets hold the tie break.

22-12

(16-5) Flash V Vanguard  (15-5-1)
The 2004 Champs are a staple around these parts, with their second straight season at 16-5 and a likely top 5 WG finish. They'll be looking to move into the Frozen Four for the second straight season.  The Flash have it all:  quality forwards, solid D and arguably the best goalie in the SCHL.  Speaking of which, Nabby has just came off an injury and started last night and who goes 4 times in this match.  Because of injuries to Morrow and Sakic, the Flash have struggled with their 6th forward slot all year.  They're hoping for someone to emerge and be the clear cut guy.

The Vanguard are coming off an emotional victory over the Rowdy Kilts, where much of the SCHL had written them off mid week.  After many used up man games throughout the week, with little results, the critics were warranted.  However, flanked by Staal and Dion, who for much of the season have been quiet, the Vanguard rallied on the final night to post a 28-30 win.  And how about Backstrom, 4 games 1 win and 3 OTLs!

The Rub: Let's not forget the spanking the Vanguard laid on the Flash last year in the Frozen Four on their way to the finals.  These teams match up well, separated by only 1 point in the standings.  The Vanguard will have to withstand four Sharks games this week if they want to move on to the Frozen Four.  However, some luck has arrived as it looks as though Kovalchuk is injured.  It's not certain how long, but he did miss last night's game.  Like the rest of the matches, this is shaping up to be an epic battle...Let's hope it's a high scoring, high stress affair.  Playoff records: Flash 6-5, Vanguard 5-4, and the Flash own the life time record at 5-2-1. - Flash hold the tie break.


Round 1

23-23

(15-5-1) Vanguard V Rowdy Kilts (9-10-2)
Last year the Vanguard duked it out to the bitter end for a post season birth and got in and went on a magical cup run.  Now, like the Washington Capitals, the Vanguard have taken the training wheels off and own the 5th seed and tops in the first round.  The Vanguard's season has been a success to date; however, they suffer from having their best players on mediocre or bad teams and quite often don't always show up ever night.

The Rowdy Kilts enter the playoffs in a situation they've never experienced: the lowest team on the totem pole.  Moreover, the Kilts enter the post season tying their 1998-1999 losing streak record at 6 weeks, needing help from the Jawas to clinch.  The Kilts season has been marred with injuries, but now they're nearly healthy with their star goalie Brodeur back in the fold.

The Rub: The Vanguard can't be happy to have had a successful regular season and have been rewarded by playing the Rowdy Kilts in the first round (with Getz only going twice).  The Kilts, when healthy, have the ability to beat any team and will try to this week down 4 points right off the hop to the Vanguard.  Both teams have been to the finals within the last two years, but one will be going home a week from today.  Playoff records: Vanguard 4-4, Kilts 14-7 and the Kilts own the life time record at 5-2-1. - Vanguard hold the tie break.

30-10

(13-6-2) 79ers V Goldminers (10-10-1)
The 2007 Champs have quietly put together a solid season despite only making two subs all year.  The 79ers aren't blessed with depth, but have two of the highest scoring players in the league and a pretty good goalie.  Their season has been here and there, but overall a success with some of their character players enjoying decent campaigns.  In the last two weeks, however, the 79ers have played more like an expansion team.  The 79ers will be looking to get their first postseason win since their 2007 Championship.

Despite going 1-2 in their last three weeks, the Goldminers have clinched their first ever post season birth, becoming the first expansion team to do so.  The Goldminers have been hot in the past 8 weeks, save week 20, and are getting points from everyone.  The real issue for the Goldminers is, can they win without a goalie, after losing their best player to a ankle spring just weeks ago.

The Rub: The exact opposite of the 79ers are the Goldminers.  The 79ers have zero depth and the Goldminers are lined with 10 guys that can score.  The Goldminers have to withstand 4 Sid and Lundy games this week and hope to win by drowning the 79ers in man games, despite no goalie.  Are the Goldminers just satisfied with only making the playoffs?   Playoff records: 79ers 5-6, Goldminers n/a and the 79ers own the life time record at 3-0.  - 79ers hold the tie break.

18-13

 

(13-8) Barracudas V Gryphons (11-10)
The Barracudas season has recently gone downhill, but it has been a strong one as a whole.  Breakout players Zajac and Clowe have propelled them into the upper echelon of the SCHL, all while, their prized acquisition in the offseason, Gonchar, hasn't played much.  Lately, however, goaltending (widely considering their best position) has become a problem for this team, along with injuries to Richards and Vanek.  The Barracudas haven't won a postseason match since their inaugural season.

The Gryphons' year started off as a disaster.  At one point they were 18th in the WG and the playoffs were miles away.  Injuries to two of their best players,  Stasnty and Gaborik, forced the Gryphons to start 5 dmen.  Moreover, the Gryphons goalies were constantly swapping back in forth in Florida, Niedermayer was ice cold and Zubov was lost to injury for the season.  That's all changed now...deadline pick up Matty Cullen has been red hot for them recently, Stasnty is back from his injury and Niedermayer has been a top SCHL dmen once again.  Add this all up and you get  Gryphons' 7 game winning streak to end the season, only squeaking into the postseason.

The Rub: Two teams going in opposite directions.  The Barracudas hold the top seed, but should not be considered the favourites at this point, while the Gryphons are playing with the houses money and have nothing to lose.  The 'Cudas have started Price and will pray he can start and win, or this could be a sour ending to an overall good season.  The Gryphons can hope to move to the next round, as it's rumoured Gaborik will be back.  Playoff records: Barracudas 1-3, Gryphons 5-5 and the Barracudas own the life time record at 5-2. - Barracudas hold the tie break.

14-18

(12-7-2) Triads V Heartbreakers (11-9-1)
Four years in and finally the Triads have made the postseason winning the Bronze Division.  Them and the Goldminers are the two newbies.  The Triads have been pretty consistent all year long, but have had troubles recently in their goaltending department.  Something about Osgood, Nosgood.  Their top player is day-to-day with a head thing.  The Triads do offer up a nice blend of forwards the can all score and they have the abilty to beat any team.

What's more is there to say about the Heartbreakers....back once again to the dance and hope to pull off their first postseason win since their 2003 Championship.  The Heartbreakers are here to stay once again, having one of the league's best in Parise.  Other snipes include Franzen, Jokinen and Chara.  Like the Triads, tho, they lack a good goalie.  Giguere (acquired from the Triads) has been in a funk and can't seem to buy a win.  The Heartbreakers know what it takes to win and will take this run one step at a time.

The Rub: This match could come down to man games.  Separated by only 10 pts in the WG, these teams are equally matched.  Both possess a mediocre goalie and comparable forwards.  The Triads are the hotter team going 4-1 in their last 5, with the HB going 1-4 and stumbling into the post season.  The Triads will hope mid season pick-up, Langenbrunner, can neutralize star sniper Parise.  Goalie points will be at a premium in this match and who gets more, could prove to be the winner.  Playoff records: Triads n/a, Heartbreakers 13-3 and the Triads own the life time record at 2-1-1. - Triads hold the tie break.

 


Second Annual 5th Round Open - Save the Date, July 19,2009
February 12, 2009 - Save the date boys...July 19th, 2009 is the date for the 2nd Annual 5th Round Open Championship.  It'll be held, most likely at the same course as last year.  We're hoping for 4 groups, one more than last year...so bring your A game.  Last year was a successful event and even complete newbies had a good time.

The Vipers, Assassins, Shrubdogs and Tycoons look to defend their title.  Last year's -1 score was the winning score and it's definitely a score that can be improved on.  The group birdied the 18th with the entire gallery watching.  "It was a dramatic time for us" said Mr. Franson.  "I look back and it brings a tear to my eye knowing how we were considered major underdogs."


DNQ U
February 1, 2009 - With the start of February, comes new enrolment in DNQ U.  The Devils, Millionaires and Tornadoes all got their acceptance letters today.

2008 Draft Day Pics
January 14, 2009 - Click here for the 2008 draft pics.

Top 10 People of Power and Influence in the SCHL
December 24, 2008 - It's Christmas time guys and the Peter Diamantakos dropped off a little present for everyone to read.  I encourage anyone there, if you have the time of course, to write up a little article and we'll get the league a cooking.  So, without further adieu:

In accordance with The Hockey News annual report, I figured I would present a similar list pertaining to the SCHL.  There is not much more to say than the title itself, so without further ado, here are the top 10:


10. Ashley Steier: Owner & General Manager - 79ers
It's no slight to Ash, but the main reason he rounds the bottom of the list is because of someone other than himself -- Sidney Crosby.  The fateful day in which the 79ers won the draft lottery changed a franchise and the balance of the SCHL for the next 15 to 20 years.  Having never gotten past the 1st round pre-Crosby, the 79ers became instant contenders, with Crosby leading the 79ers to their first division and championship title in only his (Crosby’s) second season.  As Crosby will be around to dominate the league for many years to come, the 79ers will almost assuredly be a threat each year.

9. Derek Day: Owner & General Manager - Express
When announced as the new owner of the old Behemoths/Korp. franchises, those who knew him beforehand were praising his G.M.ing abilities while others thought not much of it because they've heard the same refrain before.  Well, those doubters have been proven wrong because Derek has taken a craptacular team and turned it into a decent team which contends each and every week and has posted a plus-.500 record halfway into his first season.  Never shy to talk and make a big trade, Derek is putting a stamp on and shaping the Express franchise around rather nicely, going to show that things can change rather quickly with a little proactiveness.  A few more years and this team may well be right on up there, as may Derek on this list.

8. Jon Grossman: Owner & General Manager - Flash
Oft-viewed as transparent on the message boards, no one can accuse him of the same at the draft table.  In my eyes, he is the best drafter in the pool (Ryan Paik a close second) and has built a great team because of it.  The fact that 11 of his 12 protects for the 2008-2009 were all drafted by Jon says it all, and the pipeline continues with the drafting of Josh Bailey this past draft.  Already with a couple division titles and championship title to his name, with his drafting, the resume could become even more impressive over the next little while.

7. Kevin Ma: Assistant Commissionaire, SCHL; Owner & General Manager - Tornadoes
Blake's right-hand man is the voice of reason.  One of, if not the, smartest person in the pool.  Kevin provides a sense of level-headedness when it comes to league issues and always presents a well thought out argument/plan.  Talking to Kevin often, it's easy to figure out that he is a man who knows his shit and has his methodology down to a 'T'.  With arguably the best goalie in the world, he is staying true to the "build from the net out" mantra.  There are a bunch of 1sts to work with on top of the pieces in already in place, and with Kevin's willingness to talk trade, I'm certain they will not just sit around and settle for the status quo.

 6. Cameron MacKinnon: Power Rankings Extraordinaire; Owner & General Manager - North Shore Screamin' Jawas Slow and steady always wins the race -- well, almost.  One who has taken his time and pride in drafting, the results have yet to be produced in terms of division, championship and scoring titles, but are bound to come about in the very near future.  And it won't be a one-time thing either...this team is destined to be in the top three or four teams for years to come now.  As an outsider, it may seem agonizing to go through five straight DNQ's and four 1st round exits, but Cam's patience will soon pay off and make it all worth it.  For teams like my own that will have to go through a lot of turbulence before it's smooth sailing, Cam's Jawas are a model franchise in that drafting and developing well will eventually pay off.

5. Ryan Hesketh: Assistant Commissionaire, SCHL; Owner & General Manager - Goldminers I am almost positive that if you were to cut open his heart, you are bound to find the SCHL logo in there.  Outside of Blake Johnston, there seems to be not a single person more passionate about the SCHL than Ryan.  He is the epitome of being proactive as he is always, and I mean ALWAYS, trying to make his team better.  There is no stone left unturned or gem unearthed that Heske won't try and find.  He turned a bottom feeder expansion team into a playoff contender within a year and a half, and knowing that he never rests when it comes to improving, one can only envision great things ahead for the 'miners franchise.  Some of the contenders out there could have won a few more titles along the way if they had as much proactiveness as Heske has in his pinky fingers.

4. Tony Roy: 4-time SCHL Champion; Owner & General Manager - Heartbreakers
How could one argue with the G.M. of the most winningest franchise in SCHL history?  Whereas no other team has ever won more than one championship, the HBs have won four...in five years!  With parity become more apparent in the SCHL with each passing year, we may never see another team put together a string of that many championships as how Tony did.  Tony won't hide the fact that he hates rebuilding and is always looking in the now as opposed to the later, so he goes against the widespread belief that you have to rebuild some time.  Seriously though...with his resume, who are we to say?  A very respectable and gracious person, it's not hard to cheer for Tony.

3. Lorne Wilson: Owner & General Manager - Bullets
The reigning champion comes in this high with his quick ascent to the top.  Having bottomed out for two straight years only to turn it around within one year, it is one of the most compelling reversals of fortune in SCHL history.  The accumulation of a bunch of top picks, not to mention what is likely the most lopsided trade in SCHL history (Iginla), allowed Lorne to go from being table scraps to king of the table in such a short time.  Lorne has cut out a whole new niche for SCHL whereby things can turn around extremely fast by proactively drafting and trading really well...not to mention picking a perfect seat at the draft.

2. Tanner Rattray: Owner & General Manager - Rowdy Kilts
Probably the G.M. who provides the most satisfaction in beating, Tanner is never one to shy away from the spotlight.  Never afraid to express his opinion or knock a team or G.M.'s ability, it's easy to see why he axes so many people's grind.  However, when it comes to putting together a competing team, there are not many who can do it better than Tanner.  While not the greatest of drafters, he has the hype machine cranked on high and working 24/7, able to trade a pile of crap for a pot of gold.  The king of Jack Rippering, Tanner's unconventional ways rubs many the wrong way.  However, it works, as he is the owner of a championship ring and four straight division AND scoring titles.  Tanner and the Kilts will continue to be the G.M./team everyone loves to hate, but one cannot help but respect the impressive resume he sports.

1. Blake Johnston: Creator & Commissioner – SCHL; Owner & General Manager - Tycoons
No dispute here -- without him, the SCHL does not exist.  He has an incredible pool that is incredibly run and provides an incredible amount of fun and excitement.  Blake always tries and makes this pool even that much better, even though it is pretty much near perfect as is.  As for his G.M. hat, no need to look further than a championship, two scoring titles and six (SIX!) division titles!  There is so much more that could be said, but really, why bother?  We all know that Blake is and always will be the most powerful and influencial person in the SCHL.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and Happy Holidays!

For the SCHL, I'm Peter Diamantakos


Battle of the Newbies
November 6, 2008 - This week marks a Battle of the Newbies.  Both the Devils and Express took over defunct, down and out teams last season and now they're throwing up points with the best of them.  As it stands now, the score is 17-10 for the Express.  The Express have turned around one of the ugliest teams in SCHL history into a respectable squad.  They kicked off the season by defeating the Champs and sit at 2-2.  Some GMs have questioned their GMing to date, but no one can deny the fact this is a respectable team to play against.  The Devils picked up their first win last week against the lowly Assassins.  They've got the horse power to also beat any team in the SCHL, all while having a relatively slow start to their #1 man, Stammer.  One thing is for certain, neither team will be in the race for Taveras...the Assassins have firmly entrenched themselves has the laughing stock of the SCHL. Congrats guys!


Gonzo
October 10
, 2008 - Check out the MB for the nightly updates provided by Heske and for the home made standings provided by Kevin.  I'll be back in two weeks.


Draft Day Recap by the Assistant Commish
October 6
, 2008 - Because of the goofy NHL schedule, we have a few days off until the season (re)-starts.  So Kevin Ma has put together a little draft day review...here it is!


Opening Day
October 4
, 2008 - Opening game was a beauty...but a few more goals would have been nice.  Naslund looks great on the top line...Frank must be rotting knowing he kept a player who's on the verge of being sent down over Naslund.

But I can't help to wonder about this Europe gig?  Why? I don't get it? Is this to promote the game over in Europe? Last year they did the London experiment. Those games, if I recall correctly, were sold out. Full of X-Pats and media, but it wasn't even on the radar with the British public. Talk about pointless. And now they're off to Stockholm and Prague. At least they're two hockey cities.

But what do the NHL expect from all of this? To sell more Jerseys and shirts? I guess I should invest in a jersey/team apparel company. I didn't realize it was that lucrative of a business.

Or is this to generate the interest to create a Euro division? That’d ruin the league if they went there, in my opinion. Do you think Ovy and company would want to play over in the North American division? Or how could that division cope with a very little to no Canadians/Americans playing in the EU division? It’d be like European Football. Teams just sticking to their own countries...with no league in particular the best. Meh no thanks. I want the best of the best.

I know these are only 2 games overseas and it's not that big of a deal. But, really when the season starts over there and there's preseason games going on at the same time over here? That's bush league.


Frank Ranks the 2008-2009 Season

October 2
, 2008 - The studying is done, the pre-season trades are in and the draft is now a distance memory...it's time to drop the gloves and get this season cooking.  Now for the annual tradition of the season previews.  This is the second year that Goldminers' GM, Ryan Hesketh has taken over the duties and he's put in a lot of work to entertain us.  So, show him that you appreciate his work and post all about it!

Get the rankings here!


Dave Lee Strikes Again

 


Draft Day Success
September 27, 2008 - OK no time to talk, going out, but I've put the draft list up.  Under the 2008 Draft.

 

 

 

 

SCHL's Kiddy Table


Draft Day 2008 - THIS SATURDAY

 

 

 

 

 

 

WHO WILL BE THIS YEAR'S 1ST OVERALL??  DUH

September 21, 2008 - It's now approaching five days until the draft.  Show up at 11am at 583 Beach Crescent, Vancouver BC.  Try to get there on time so we can get this cooking early.  Also, I want the picks to be timely...not ridiculously fast, but not staring the ceiling hope for divine intervention.  The summer is over and hockey is here!  mmyyeeesssss


Top 9 GMs in the SCHL
September 10, 2008 - I'm sure this list will ruffle a few feathers.  I've decided to release my Top 9 GMs in the SCHL before I head off for the weekend.  Don't take offence if you don't like what you read, it's just a hockey pool.  I decided to cook up this list after I thought the voting for the other list on the message board was just a popularity contest.  Top 9 GMs

 


Draft Day Location Changed
September 8, 2008 - Unfortunately, due to the recently called election (which happens on Oct 14th), the location of the draft on Saturday September 27, 2008 has been changed from the home of the Heartbreakers to a common area room located in the Barracudas building.   Hopefully Tony can still make the draft...it's been six year since  he's made a live draft.  The address of the new location is 583 Beach Crescent, Vancouver BC.  For those too lazy to google map that, it's located at the north side of the Granville Street Bridge in False Creek/Yale Town. The festivities get underway at 11am, so show up on time!  That includes me!  Parking seems to be the only issue around this location, but given the early time, it should be OK.  I'm walking from my place (20min walk), which is on the south side of the same bridge, so if you're worried about parking you're more than welcome to park in my neighbourhood and walk over. 

Will order up some food for the draft and we’ll decide that later, but don’t eat lunch before and bring $10 or so for food (this only really applies to two guys). This room has tables, chairs (no more drafting from your knees!), a pool table and a TV, the only thing it lacks is WIFI and I guess the net.  So if you have those wireless cards, bring them.  We do need the net for the Spartans draft picks, so we’ll have to sort this all out as the days get closer.

This is draft day, it’s a long day so prepare so we can at least speed up the draft where possible.  Trade talks are a good reason to slow down the draft, Sean drunk and not having a clue is a bad reason.  Don’t come wanting to leave in a hurry.  Hopefully it’ll be hockey talk, drafting and then we can go out after or do something after. 

And bring the $140.  If you don’t, you’re not drafting.  Otherwise see you at 11am on the 27th!


The Gryphons Chime In
August 29, 2008 - I got an unexpected email from the Gryphons the other day.  He threw together a little write-up on how teams have faired over the past decade.  Check it out.

Top 10 JRs of All Time
August 27 - 2008 - As part of celebrating 10 years of the SCHL, we are rolling out the first Top 10 list in a series of Top 10 lists celebrating 10 years of the SCHL.  So that's Top 10, 10 years, 1 sheep, 2 sheep. Got it?  This week we take a look at what I consider the Top 10 JRs of all time.  I originally wrote this a while ago and wasn't going to post it because I thought people would be upset to see their rotted corpse paraded all over the page once more, but thought nah....let's get it up there.  We all know beating a dead horse is fun.  As I've said in the write up, this is MY list, if you don't agree, cool, but cook up your ownTop 10 list.  JRs here!


Summer Franchise Values (1st ever)
August 21, 2008 - We're in the dog days of summer alright.  The mags are slowly trickling in and the summer nights are quietly  shorting each day.  This means three things: The NFL is starting, training camp for the NHL starts soon and the MB is a ghost town.  So to liven things up, and since we've protected early this year, I thought I'd put together a little something for everyone to read while we grind out the next 37 days until the 27th of September.  Enjoy.

 


Underdogs Capture the First Annual 5th Round Open
August 13, 2008 - With everyone watching on the 18th hole, the would be leaders sunk a 10 foot birdie putt for a one under 71 to win the inaugural 5th Round Open at Surrey Golf Course on August 10, 2008.  "I didn't want to miss that one" said captain, Blake Johnston of the winning team. "We battled all day, making long par putts, scrambling.  Everyone chipped in.  Tyson was  throwing those chips tight, Adam with the big drives in the front nine and Sean for those 225 yard 3 irons.  I can't wait to defend the title next year."  The Champions were group 3, the Tycoons, Assassins, Vipers and Shrubdogs.

The day started like it was going to rain, but it the end it was scorching.  All teams played a relatively quick 18 holes.  The group lead by Nathan Bellamy got off to a hot start and was -2 after three holes.  "Things were looking good for us.  The chest bumps were a plenty." remarked Nathan Bellamy. "But shit hit the fan on number 6 as we double bogeyed that hole and dropped back to even.  We just never got it back on track."  The other group lead by Lorne Wilson picked up their play on the back nine, but the damage was done on the front.

After the round most of the guys headed back to the Bullets home and gobbled up some of the Barracuda's world famous burgers.  Click here for pictures of the day.

Here are the final scores:

First off the tee at 10:09am, the Bullets, Devils, Vanguard & Tornadoes:
Front Nine: 5, 4, 5, 4, 3, 4, 4, 4, 6 = 39
Back Nine:  4, 4, 3, 5, 4, 3, 4, 4, 4 = 35
Total 74, +2

Second off the tee at 10:16am, the Barracudas, Regime, Goldminers & Rowdy Kilts
Front Nine: 4, 3, 4, 3, 4, 6, 4, 4, 5 = 37
Back Nine:  5, 5, 3, 5, 4, 3, 4, 4, 5 = 38
Total 75, +3

Third off the tee at 10:25am, the Tycoons, Assassins, Vipers & Shrubdogs:
Front Nine:5, 4, 5, 3, 4, 4, 3, 4, 4 = 36
Back Nine: 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 3, 4, 4, 4 = 35
Total 71, -1


August 10th, 2008 SCHL Annual Golf Classic
July 23, 2008 -
The SCHL will be having this years 1st annual golf Texas scramble show down at Surrey Golf course on August 10, 2008.  We'll hopefully get 12 guys to come, but it sounds like it may only be 8 or so.  It would be nice to have three teams competing.  Once the teams are set, we'll put up some captains and then draft teams on the board.

Afterwards we'll all cruise back to the home of the Bullets for a SCHL barby.  Everyone is invited to both.  Even if you can't make the golf, please come to the barby to catch up and BS with all the lads.  I think in the limited number of years we've had a summer barby there has never been a trade.  We just like to sit around and make fun of Gump Worsley...as if Ovy couldn't pot 100 goals and that stiff.  Anyway come on out!!

 


The SCHL Adds another Assistant Commissionaire
July 2, 2008
- Today the SCHL is proud to announce another addition to its management team.  Ryan Hesketh is being added on as a second assistant commissionaire of the SCHL.  "He's come a long way from his days as an annoying GM back in 2006.  When I saw the amount of time and effort he puts into the SCHL, I thought wouldn't it be great if we could channel that into the league?"  said Blake Johnston from his office in Vancouver.  "The SCHL could really benefit from this assignment.  He's on to the SCHL 24/7, who's a better guy than him?  As I get older, I simply do not have as much time as I once did to run the pool, this move will help pass on some of the duties of running the best pool in town."

What exactly Frank's role will be, will be determined, but for now he will be helped as asked.


2008 SCHL Awards

Snipers Cup Champion

Wayne Gretzky Champion
Prime Minister Champion
Premier Division Champs
Gold Division Champs
Silver Division Champs
Bronze Division Champs
Most Improved Team
Jaromir Jagr
Ovechkin
Tycoons
Martin Brodeur
Nabokov
Flash
Norris
Niklas Lidstrom
79ers
Snipe of the Draft
Streit
Tornadoes
Patrick Roy
Iginla
Bullets
POW
Spezza
Shrubdogs
Anchor Award
Thornton
79ers
22.65%
Commish's Choice
This year's winner of the Commish's Choice Award goes to Ryan Hesketh. Better known as 'Frank', Ryan has taken GMing to a whole new level this past season, while GMing the expansion Goldminers.  Picking up players such as Miller, Burns and Visnovsky the Goldminers are leaving other expansion teams and established teams behind.  In his short tenure, Ryan has mastered the ins and outs of the SCHL like only a few have.

In addition to being a solid GM, Heske has contributed to the SCHL in many ways.  From team previews to betting lines and in-depth Franking posts or adding to the overall development of the SCHL, Heske has really become a corner stone GM.

So from the SCHL, Thanks Heske!

Promotions
Relegations

Draft Day 2008

In honour of the SCHL's 10th Anniversary, the 2008 SCHL Draft will be held Saturday September 27th, 2008 at the Home of the Uptown Heartbreakers.  This will be the second time the annual event has been hosted by the Heartbreakers, with the last draft hosted in 1999 in Port Moody.  Draft details and directions will be disclosed closer to draft day. For now. save the date and don't be a Charlie and let your wife or gf plan something on that day.  It's Christmas in September!