Slip sliding away
By Barry Williams
February 5, 2006
Olds Albertan

During the 1960's "Slip Sliding Away" was a popular song and today it could be
delivered as the Olds Grizzlys' theme song.

A Grizzlys' three game losing streak coupled with a Camrose Kodiaks' streak of four
consecutive wins has had an impact on the Rogers Wireless south division standings as
the Kodiaks, with 65 points, now have a two point cushion in front of the Grizzlys in the
hunt for first place in the south division standings.

It was a tough week of action for the Grizzlys as they were downed 4-1 by the
Okotoks Oilers in Olds on Tues. Feb.. 7 and drubbed 6-0 by the Grande Storm Storm on Fri.
Feb.. 10. Heading home from the northern road trip on Sun. Feb.. 12, the Spruce Grove
Saints edged the Grizzlys 5-4.

After Kirk Deeg gave the Grizzlys an early first period lead, the Oilers stormed back
with two unanswered goals in each of the second and third periods to gain the victory.
Andrew Owsiak netted a pair of power play goals to lead the Kodiaks offensively.
Other goals came off the sticks of Dallas hand and Cole Geddes.

Meanwhile, in Grande Prairie, Chris Wilson and Dustin Sather dented the twine twice
with Kevin Hamel and Mackenzie Caron adding singletons.

For the Oilers, the win was important as it moved them into a third place tie with
the Brooks Bandits. Both teams have garnished 58 points and are guaranteed a spot in the upcoming playoffs.

"We set a goal on making the playoffs this season and the players are very proud of
this," said Oilers' head coach, Garry VanHereweghe.

"But the regular season isn't over yet as we want to finish as high as we can in the
standings," VanHereweghe said, noting the remaining games are very important.
Against the Grizzlys, VanHereweghe indicated the Oilers were nursing a few injuries
and their game plan was to play a very simple game of dump and chase.
"Because the Grizzlys were hurting along the blueline, our plan was to wear them down
by dumping the puck into their zone on every opportunity," noted VanHereweghe.
Offensively, the Grizzlys held the territorial edge but were limited on their scoring chances
as the Oilers kept the home squad on the outside.

"They (Grizzlys) are a strong team in front of the net as most of their goals are scored
with a man standing in front of the crease," VanHereweghe added.

VanHereghe praised his player for playing a disciplined game and noted they refused to
be whistled for marginal penalties.

"With the Grizzlys having one of the best power play units in the league, I was pleased
we didn't allow them any goals with a man advantage," VanHereweghe.
Although the Grizzlys held the advantage on the clock shot, head coach, Kevin
Hasselbergwasn't pleased with the way the players executed their plays.
"Sure we had a lot of shots on net but very few of them were good scoring chances,"
Hasselberg said.

And Hasselberg was not pleased with the work ethic indicating the players were
comfortable with just going through the motions.

"They (Oilers) ouworked us throughout the enire game," Hasselberg said.
"Whether it's a practice or game situation, the players have to be willing to make a
sacrifice and work hard," Hasselberg said.

"There are no excuses for the way we're playing right now," added Hasselberg.
Although the Grizzlys are riddled with injuries, Hasselberg indicated they are
not the reason for the Grizzlys recent losing streak.

Whether the players are now content they have made the playoffs or not, Hasselberg
expects a better performance in the remaining games.

"Home ice is a tremendous advantage in the playoffs and we will have to wait and see
if the players really want this," Hasselberg concluded.

This week the Grizzlys travle to Camrose to play the Kodiaks on Feb. 17 and
entertain the Spruce Grove Saints on Feb. 18.

They will finish the regular season next week with home games against the Kodiaks on
Feb. 20 and the Calgary Canucks on Feb. 24.

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Injuries are part of any game, just ask the AJHL coaching staff.

Two teams riddled by injuries tangled at the Olds Sports Complex on Friday Feb.3 in
the third round of the "Battle of the Bears".

And in a game with first place in the Rogers Wireless south division on the line, the
Camrose Kodiaks skated to a 5-3 victory over the olds Grizzlys before 428 fans.

With the win the Kodiaks moved into a first place tie with the Grizzlys, each team
posting 61 points on the season.

When the weekend action was completed, the Grizzlys regained first place by posting a
hard fought 5-4 win over the Calgary Royals on Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Sports Complex.
With a game in hand on the Kodiaks and the Drumheller Dragons, the Grizzlys (63) now
lead the south division by two points over the Kodiaks (61) and have increased their lead over the third place Dragons (57) by six points.

Due to injuries to key players, the Grizzlys have inked in affiliate players from the Red Deer
Midget AAA Optimist Chiefs and the Midget AAA Rocky Mountain Lightning and according to Grizzlys' head coach, Kevin Hasselberg the players called up for action have made their presence felt on the ice.

"Our coaching staff has used these players in different situations and they haven't looked
out of place," said Hasselberg.

"We are very fortunate to have an excellent working relationship with the Red Deer and
Carstairs teams," added Hasselberg indicating both Midget teams have been very co-
operative."Also, our scouting staff has worked very hard in identifying players and recruiting them for us," said Hasselberg.

Although the injuries have resulted in roster changes, Hasselberg feels comfortable in
using different line-up changes.

Some of the injuries sustained by the players have been serious but the training staff of
trainer Jim Ross and athletic therapist Megan Lodeon have put in extra hours in assuring
the players return to the line-up in healthy condition.

And Hasselberg is thankful for their dedication towards the players and team.
Hasselberg acknowledges injuries are apart of the game but he is mystified at why the
players have become injured in bunches.

"All of our players work extra hard on conditioning so being out of condition has nothing
to do with the injuries," hasselberg added.

Despite the injuries, the Grizzlys have been playing well enough to challenge for first place
and Hasselberg believes the team will be even better when an injury free roster takes to
the ice.

"Right now, the main focus is to make sure the injured players are healthy for the play-offs," Hasselberg added.

Like the Grizzlys, the Kodiaks were hit hard with a rash of injuries and head coach Boris
Rybalka is relieved his injured bodies have returned to the line-up.

"I hope our injury problems are behind us, we need every player healthy during the stretch run," Rybalka said.

"Since our injured players have returned we are now playing our best hockey," Rybalka added.

Most of the Kodiaks' injuries came at the beginning of the current season and resulted in
the AJHL defending champions slow start to the year.

"We are fortunate our veteran players have stepped up their play," Rybalka said, noting
he is very comfortable with his rookie players.

In some ways, the injuries were a blessing for the Kodiaks as it allowed the first year players
to gain valuable ice time and their play has improved game in and game out.
"Our veteran players have helped our rookie players out tremendously and it is showing in
their play," Rybalka added.

Because Rybalka realized the Kodiaks would be a younger team this season, it allowed
him to be heavily involved in recruiting during the summer.

"We have added some excellent first year players this year," Rybalka noted.
And with the exceptional work of veteran David Thompson between the pipes, Rybalka
feels he has the right combination to defend their AJHL championship.

In Olds, the Kodiaks received a pair of power play goals off the stick of Scott Wiancko
and singletons from Jesse VanDalfsen, Scott Kobialko and Logan Gorsalitz to account for
their scoring.

For the Grizzlys, Dave Cowan, Steve Hougen and Michael Penny dented the twine.
Against the Royals, Jeff Smyth and Parker Burgess netted a pair of goals with
singletons being added by Michael Dempster and Steve Hougen.

Denting the twine for the Royals were Jordan Sealock, Tyler Lynn, Jordan Sealock
and Brandon Spiller.

This week the Grizzlys play the Okotoks Oilers on Tuesday Feb. 7 at the Sports Complex
and travel to Grande Prairie on Feb. 10 and Spruce Grove on Feb. 12.

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Back on track
By Barry Williams
January 30, 2006

After being demolished by the Canmore Eagles 7-2 in Canmore on Fri. Jan.27, the Olds
Grizzlys got back on track at the Olds sports Complex by blanking the Eagles 1-0 on Sat.
Jan. 28 and skating to a 3-3 draw against the Brooks Bandits on Sun. Jan. 29.
Although the Grizzlys were gunning for six points on the weekend, the three points racked
up kept them in first place in the Rogers Wireless south division standings with 61 points.
For a team priding themselves in defensive play, the seven goals surrendered by the Grizzlys in the first game of the home and home series against the Eagles was uncharacteristic.
Prior to the first game against the Eagles, the Grizzlys gave up eight goals against the
Drayton Valley Thunder in a game played earlier in the week in Drayton Valley.
Before coming home to play the weekend games, Grizzlys head coach, Kevin Hasselberg
noted the Grizzlys were a "fragile team."
Giving up 15 goals in two games meant the players did some soul searching and they
responded at home with a flawless game against the Eagles and a decent game with the Bandits.
"All of the players pride themselves in their defensive play," said Hasselberg, noting the
fifteen goals scored against them in two games left a bad taste in the dressing room.
"Give the players credit, they responded with an outstanding effort against the Eagles at
home and today the effort was solid against the Bandits," noted Hasselberg.
As for the recent games in Canmore and Drayton Valley, where the Grizzlys were
soundly defeated, Hasselberg indicated the players have forgotten about them and moved on.
"We are not worried about past games or future games, our task is to concentrate on the
game at hand," Hasselberg noted.
According to Hasselberg, goaltending has made a difference in recent games as Matthew Wong was brilliant between the pipes in picking up the shutout against the Eagles.
"I thought the goaltending against the Eagles in the second game was simply outstanding,"said Hasselberg.
According to Hasselberg, Wong gave the Grizzlys the opportunity for the win by making key saves when the defensive coverage broke down.
"He (Wong) has turned into an excellent goaltender and I am positive he will become even a better goaltender as he progresses in his career regardless which path he chooses," Hasselberg added.
Against the Bandits, the Grizzlys were the dominant team but were foiled in their effots to
walk away with the game as all-star netminder, Kyle Richter stole the limelight by making
several brilliant saves and Hasselberg noted Richter was the only reason the Bandits escaped with a single point.
"We had numerous scoring opportunities but couldn't bury our chances against Richter,"
Hasselberg said, indicating the puck wasn't bouncing in the Grizzlys favor.
Meanwhile, Bandits assistant coach, Dean Hansen, a former player with Grizzlys, noted the Bandits defensive coverage broke down several times, mostly due to the Grizzlys tenacious forechecking.
"Because the Grizzlys were constantly forechecking us we had a tough time getting out of
our end," Hansen said.
"There was no doubt the difference in the game for us was our goaltending," Hansen said.
"This isn't the first time Richter has stolen points from the Grizzlys," Hansen added.
During the encounter, Richter was peppered with 50 shots while Cole Anderson made 28
saves between the pipes for the Grizzlys.
For the Grizzlys, Michael Dempster, Braden Desmet and Michael LeClair dented the twine
while Mike Solik, Landon Novotney and Corey Rutt replied for the Bandits.
Against the Eagles in Olds, the only goal scored in the game came off the stick of Jeff
Smyth.
In Canmore, the Eagles received three goals from Chris Berry with singletons being added
by Kevin Lessard, Derek Jubb, Michael Saddler and Ryan Hyland.
Meanwhile, Curtis Beaudoin and Jeff Smyth blinked the red light for the Grizzlys.
This week, the Grizzlys renew the "Battle of the Bears" with a home game against the
Camrose Kodiaks on Friday, Feb. 3 and entertain the Calgary Royals on Saturday, Feb. 4

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Stormy times for Grizzlys
By Barry Williams
January 22, 2006

Although the weather has been sunny and mild throughout Alberta, the Olds Grizzlys skated into a storm at the Drayton Valley Complex on Friday Jan.20 as they were balmed 8-2 by the Drayton Valley Thunder in AJHL action.
Backed by the outstanding goaltending of Scott Gundmandson, the Thunder controlled every facet of the game except the shot clock as the Grizzlys fired 30 shots at the masked man between the pipes but were only able to dent the twine twice.
For the Grizzlys, Parker Burgess dented the twine late in the first period with a power play
marker while Curtis VanGrinsven blinked the red light in the second period with an even strength goal.
Meanwhile, the Thunder power play was throwing lightning bolts at the Grizzlys'
netminding tandem of Cole Anderson and Matthew Wong as they connected with four goals with the man advantage.
Michael Mouilleriat struck for a pair of power play goals for the Thunder with Sean Ringrose and Jeremy Russell connecting for the other extra man goals. Late in the third period Mouilleriat completed his hat trick.
Other Thunder goals came off of the sticks of Tyler Moore, Derek VanHarm and Kyle Gailey
Anderson started the game for the Grizzlys between the pipes but gave way to Wong mid- way through the first period after the Thunder built a commanding 3-0 lead.
Earlier in the week, the Grizzlys were robbed by a masked bandit in Brooks as the Bandits
handed the Grizzlys a 3-1 defeat.
All-star, Kyle Richter made a statement in the net for the Bandits as he committed highway robbery on the Grizzlys' sharpshooters. Early in the first period, Michael Dempster gave the
Grizzlys a 1-0 lead but the single goal was all Richter allowed as he shut the door on the
Grizzlys for the remainder of the game. He finished the game with 38 saves while Cole
Anderson blocked 23 shots in the Grizzlys' cage.
And the Bandits selected to play for the Rogers Wireless South Division all-star team
did all the scoring for the Bandits as landon Novotney, Mark Nelson and Mike Soik blinked
the red light.
With the win, the Bandits moved into a third place tie in the Rogers Wireless South
Division standings with the Drumheller Dragons. Both teams have chalked up 50 points
so far this season, a single point behind the Camrose Kodiaks with 51 points.
Dispite the two defeats, the Grizzlys remain in first place in the south division with a record
of 26 wins, 15 losses, 2 ties and 4 overtime losses good enough for 58 points.
A recent winning streak has vaulted the Thunder into third place in the north division with 64 points.
However, they are still trying to catch the league's two hottest teams, the Fort McMurray Oil Barons and Bonnyville Pontiacs. With 71 points, Fort McMurray has the best record in the AJHL and they have been ranked as the best Canadian Junior A hockey team for most of the season.
Meanwhile, the Bonnyville Pontiacs have collected 68 points so far this season and are ranked within the top ten in Canada.
At the AJHL All-star weekend in Spruce Grove at the Grant Fuhr Arena, two Grizzlys combined for the only goal the South Prospects scored in the annual Prospects Game. Completely outmatched by their northern counterparts, the South Prospects lost a 5-1.
Kyle Dorowiwicz notched the only goal for the south team while Dustin Moore contributed the only assist.
Scoring for the Northern Prospects were, Brian Kelly, Joey Ammon, Derek Klassen, Blake hamilton and Jordan Kerry.
Matthew Wong was one of three goaltenders playing for the south squad and during his period of play he made 10 saves. Other tenders for the southern team were Jonathon LaRose and Ryan Rondeau.
Grizzlys Head Coach/G, Kevin Hasselberg, was named the head coach of the South Prospects and this was his inaugural appearance at the league's all-star weekend.
This week the Grizzlys entertain the Canmore Eagles on Sat. Jan. 28 and the Brooks Bandits on Sunday, Jan. 29 in an afternoon tilt. Their only away game is against the Eagles in Canmore on Friday,
Jan. 27.

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King of the ice
By Barry Williams
January 9, 2006

King Michael LeClair and his loyal subjects, the Olds Grizzlys, defended a royal invasion at the Olds Sportscomplex by defeating the Calgary Royals 7-2 in AJHL action played on Friday, Jan. 13.
LeClair notched a natural hat trick in the first period of the encounter and added a late second period goal to lead the Grizzlys offensive threat.
Other goals for the Grizzlys came off the sticks of Ryan Ekdahl, Braden Desmut and Parker Burgess.
After jumping out to a comfortable 4-0 first period lead, the Royals cut the margin to two goals in the second period on goals by Shane Lust and Jordan Sealock.
Actually, the game could have been a blow-out as the Grizzlys dominated every facet of the game peppering the Royals goalies, Andrew pinsent and Brett Dreger with 62 shots.
Pinsent, the starting netminder, was pulled midway through the first period after the Grizzlys built up a 4-0 lead. He was replaced by Dreger, who's outstanding goaltending kept the Royals in the game and prevented the Grizzlys from embarrassing them. The Royals are marred in the basement of the Rogers Wireless south division standings.
With the win, the Grizzlys (58 points) maintained their ten point lead over the second place Brooks Bandits (48 points) in the Rogers Wireless south division standings. Defending AJHL champions, Camrose Kodiaks, sit in third place with 47 points.
It was a productive week for the Grizzlys as they earlier defeated the Calgary Canucks 4-1 at the Max Bell Arena in Calgary on Jan. 9 and blitzed the Drumheller Dragons 6-1 in action played in Drumheller on Jan. 11.
Against the Canucks, Jordan Baker notched a power play goal and a short handed marker to pace the Grizzlys offensively. Other markers came off the sticks of Mark Smyth and Kyle Dorowicz.
For the Canucks, Kyle Burton spoiled Cole Anderson's bid for a shutout with a power play marker late in the third period.
In Drumheller, the Grizzlys' power play was front and center as Michael LeClair, Michael Dempster and Dustin Moore blinked the red light with a man advantage. Singletons were added by Curtis VanGrinsven, Parker Burgess and Francois Auger.
Tallon Berlando was the only marksman for the Dragons.
Between the pipes, jonathon LaRose blocked 32 shots for the Dragons while Cole Anderson made 31 saves.
Playing the Camrose Kodiaks at the Max McLean Arena in Camrose, on Sunday Jan. 15, the Grizzlys seven game winning streak ended as the Kodiaks won the latest battle of the bears with a hard fought 3-2 win.
On power play goals by Matt Schmermund and Logan Gorsalitz, along with an even strength goal from Scott Kobialko, the Kodiaks headed into the first period intermission with a comfortable 3-0 lead.
Ryan Hore and Francois Auger notched the Grizzlys' goals in the second stanza.
All-star netminder, David Thompson turned aside 31 shots in the Kodiaks net while the tandem of Matthew Wong and Cole Anderson combined for 23 saves.
With the win, the Kodiaks moved ahead of the Brooks Bandits into second place in the Rogers Wireless south division standings, nine points behind the front running Grizzlys.
Grizzlys' head coach, Kevin Hasselberg, noted the players are taking every game on a game to game basis.
"Right now they're not looking at the standings, it doesn't matter to them if we are ten or two points ahead of our nearest opponent," Hasselberg said.
"All of the players are focused on other things other than the win and this is very important as to the development of the players individually or for the team," said Hasselberg.
"Every player has certain things they want to accomplish in each game and they are cent red on this," Hasselberg said.
"They judge their performance on whether they have met their goals set out by themselves before each game," Hasselberg added.
"Their success depends on meeting individual or team goals," Hasselberg said.
Although the Grizzlys have a comfortable division lead, Hasselber insists the players are concentrating on the upcoming league games and not the playoffs.
"Most of the players, realize the playoffs will be a rewarding experience," Hasselberg noted.
"And they also know the regular season is not over yet and in order to be in the playoffs they must continue to win hockey games," Hasselberg said indicating a losing streak could take them out of post season contention.
Most of the remaining games are against south division teams as the Grizzlys have just three games scheduled against northern division foes, two games against the Grande Prairie Storm and a single encounter with the Spruce Grove Saints.
Last year, the Grizzlys battled the Drumheller Dragons and the Calgary Royals for the final post season position and came up short by a single point.
"Our veteran players know what they went through last season in trying to make the play offs and I am certain they don't want to go through it again this year," Hasselberg said.
"The south division is too evenly matched, if we let our guard down now we will be out of playoff contention in no time," hasselberg concluded.
This week, the Grizzlys play two games on the road against the Bandits in Brooks on Jan. 18 and the Drayton Valley Thunder on Fri. Jan. 20.
Their next home games are on Jan. 28 against the Canmore Eagles and on Jan. 29 against the Brooks Bandits.

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Grizzlys maintain division lead
By Barry Williams
January 9, 2006

With a pair of victories this past week end at the Olds Sportscomplex, the Olds Grizzlys maintained their six point lead over the Brooks Bandits in the Rogers Wireless South division standings.
In the most recent statistics released by the AJHL, the Grizzlys have compiled 52 points with the Bandits chalking up 46 points. A couple of points behind the Bandits with 44 points are the Drumheller Dragons with the defending AJHL champions, the Camrose Kodiaks, sitting in fourth place with 42 points.
Meanwhile, the Fort McMurray Oil Barons have the best record in the AJHL with 67 points and lead the Bonnyville Pontiacs (60) by seven points in the Rogers Wireless North division standings.
On Friday, Jan.6, the Grizzlys received outstanding goaltending by Cole Anderson in downing the Grande Prairie Storm 3-1, while on Saturday, Jan. 7, the Grizzlys needed double overtime to defeat the Bonnyville Pontiacs 4-3.
Against the Storm, Anderson turned aside 35 shots in picking up the win. After giving the Storm an early 1-0 first period lead on a goal by Chris Wilson, Anderson settled down and shut the door on the Storm's high powered offensive threat for the remainder of the game. He was particularly outstanding in the third period as he made several brilliant saves when the Storm were enjoying the power play.
At the other end of the rink, Jordan Ramstead handled 32 shots between the pipes for the Storm.
Blinking the red light for the Grizzlys were Jordan Baker, Braden Desmet and Adam Ross
With two high scoring teams battling it out on the ice, fans expected an offensive onslaught of goals but Grizzlys' head coach, Kevin Hasselberg, was not surprised at the low scoring game.
"I thought we kept the Wilson line in check for most of the game," Hasselberg said.
When they did have a chance to score Anderson shut the door, allowing just the power play goal.
Throughout the current season, the Grizzlys' penalty killing has improved and Hasselberg was quick to praise the penalty killing units.
"Except for the one goal our penalty killers were sharp especially in the third period," said Hasselberg.
"We have the best penalty killing record in the south division and when the penalty killers are pressing their forwards we limit the opposition scoring chances," Hasselberg added.
Against the Pontiacs, Braden Desmet notched his third goal of the game with just over a minute remaining in the second overtime period to give the Grizzlys the victory.
Steve Hougen and Francois Auger notched the other goals for the Grizzlys with
Mark Letestu with a pair, Bryand Dyke and Matt Brown netting the Pontiacs' goals.
Between the pipes, Anderson turned in another steady performance blocking 40 shots while Chad Ferris kicked out 35 shots in the Pontiacs' net.
This week, the Grizzlys play a pair of road games against the Calgary Canucks on Jan. 9 and the Drumheller Dragons on Jan. 11. They return to the friendly confines of the Olds Sportscomplex on Friday, jan.13 against the Calgary Royals.

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Viking Cup rewarding experience for Grizzlys' players
By Barry 5 Williams
January 8, 2006

It is considered one of the best Junior A hockey tournaments in Canada and for three Olds Grizzlys' players the Viking Cup was a rewarding experience.
Forwards Dustin Moore and Kyle Dorowicz along with defenceman Ryan Ekdahl were among 25 players selected to the AJHL South Division allstar team which placed second at the Annual Viking Cup Tournament held in Camrose from Dec.26-Jan., 2006.
A showcase for Junior A hockey in Western Canada, the event was dominated by the Alberta Junior A Hockey League as the AJHL North allstars defeated the AJHL South allstars 4-3 in the championship game held on Jan. 2, 2006.
Heading into the final game of the tournament both AJHL teams were undefeated in round robin play.
Although the AJHL is proud of the exciting offensive hockey displayed by member teams, the Viking Cup final game was somewhat of a defensive struggle largely due to the exceptional netminding of Kyle Richter, Ben Scrivens and Scott Gudmanson.
Richter went the entire distance in the South allstars' net blocking 37 shots while Scrivens and Gudmanson combined to block 32 shots in the North allstars net.
With the teams deadlocked at 3 goals apiece heading into the final stanza, Mark Letestu, the league's leading scorer, notched the winning goal, his second of the game mid way through the period.
Other North allstars goals came off the sticks of David Murray and Blake Hamilton.
On the scoresheet, the Grizzlys' players were front and center for the South allstars, as Dorowicz and Moore blinked the red light as did Matt Boyd.
Richter, the Brooks Bandits exceptional netminder, was named the tournament's most outstanding player while Dorowicz and Moore led all scorers.
For the past twenty years, the Viking Cup has been a pernament fixture in Camrose during the Christmas holidays. Originally started by the Augastana University Vikings as an university tournament, it has included allstar teams from the BC Junior Hockey League, Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League and U-18 teams from Europe for the past ten years.
Next year, the Viking Cup will be held in fort McMurray, AB and will return to Camrose in 2008 and be played in a brand new arena.
Besides the actual participation at the tournament, the players are also afforded the opportunity of experiencing different cultures as the European teams bring their unique traditions to Canada.
"I am extremely proud of the players who represented the Olds Grizzlys at this year's Viking Cup," said head coach Kevin Hasselberg.
According to Hasselberg, it is an honor for the players to participate in the Viking Cup and they should cherish every moment of the prestigious tournament.
And the tournament directly benefits the Grizzlys as the three players have shared their experiences in the dressing room and their inspired play on the ice has encouraged the entire team.
As the players share their Viking Cup experiences with their team mates, their enthusiasm towards the game is spread in the dressing room and on the bench.
"Our younger players not involved in the Viking Cup know if they work hard, carry a positive attitude and are dedicated to the game, they could be part of the Viking Cup next year," Hasselberg added.
"All three players who participated in the Viking Cup are leaders on the bench and in the dressing room and now because of the Viking Cup experience they have become even stronger leaders," Hasselberg said.
Because the players were able to showcase their talents before numerous university scouts, Hasselberg believes their stock has risen and they should be able to ink lucrative scholarships.

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Moore leads AJHL South all-stars to victory
By Barry 5 Williams
December 19, 2005

Olds Grizzlys' sniper, Dustin Moore, dented the red light once and added a pair assists to lead the AJHL South All-Stars to a 3-0 victory over Finland in Viking Cup play held in Camrose on Dec. 26.

Drumheller Dragons' leading scorer Derek Werenka and Kyle Burton added the other south all-stars' markers.

In an evenly matched game, the difference was truly the outstanding work by Brooks Bandits' Kyle Richter, who made 24 saves to record the shutout. Richter made several brilliant saves in the third period, when the South All-stars found themselves in trouble due to penalties.
Meanwhile, Finland's backstopper, Niko Hovinen, blocked 22 shots between the pipes.

For Richter it was his first goose egg in Viking Cup tournament play.
It was a flawless start for the AJHL North All-Stars as they rode the solid goaltending of Ben Scrivens to record a 2-0 defeat over Switzerland.
Up front Scrivens received support from Jesse Martin and Jeremy Russell who blinked the red light behind Switzerland goalie Lukas Flueller, who faced 40 shots.

Although not overly busy between the pipes, Scrivens finished the game with 24 saves.

Taking to the ice in their second game, the AJHL South All-Stars doubled up on Switzerland 4-2.

Blinking the red light for the southern all-stars were Derek Werenka, Darren Zurkan, Mike Bolton and Landon Novotney.

For Switzerland, Aurellio Lemm and Sven Berger dented the twine behind netminder David Thompson, who finished the game with 20 saves.

Throughout the entire contest, the south all-stars dominated the play firing 42 shots at Ivan Mantegazzi in the Switzerland net.

Camrose Kodiaks veteran netminder, David Thompson blocked 20 shots. He was brilliant in the first two periods when the game was still a one goal deficit. To secure the victory, the South All-Stars scored three unanswered goals in the third period.

In their second game of the tournament, the North All-Stars defeated Finland 4-1.

Denting the twine for the northern all-stars were Mark Lestu, Taylor Fedun, Jesse Martin and Joel Hentuik. Robert Nyholm was the lone marksman for Finland.

This was the first time the AJHL entered two all-star teams in the Viking Cup.

Round robin play continued right through to Dec. 31. On January 1, 2006, the championship game was played. Results were not known at press time.

Prior to the start of the Viking Cup, the Olds Grizzlys entertained the Germany U-18 Selects in an exhibition tilt played at the Olds Sportscomplex on Friday, Dec. 23.

During the entire contest, the Germany squad used their size and puck control to their advantage skating away with a 6-1 victory.
Grizzlys' head coach, Kevin Hasselberg was impressed with the Germany squad indicating it was a pleasure to watch them in action.
"I had no idea of what to expect from the Germany team but I must say i was impressed," Hasselberg said.

"We were very entertained by the pace the Germans played at," Hasselberg said.

"For a big team, they moved the puck very well, were excellent skaters and didn't shy away from the physical play," Hasselberg added.

"From a fan's perspective, I thought they got their money's worth," Hasselberg said.

Because of a few nagging injuries sustained by some players, Hasselberg had the opportunity to insert five affiliated players into the line-up.

"I thought the players called up for this game were not out of place," said Hasselberg.

"Our coaching staff got to use these players in different situations on the power play and killing penalties," said Hasselberg.

After taking a week off for the Christmas break, the Grizzlys are prepared to swing back into action with a pair of games at the Olds Splortscomplex this coming weekend.

On Fri. January 6, the Grizzlys entertain the Grande Prairie Storm and on Sat. January 7 they tangle with the Bonnyville Pontiacs.

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Grizzlys increase lead in south division
By Barry 5 Williams
December 19, 200

With a pair of victories over the Canmore Eagles last week, the Olds Grizzlys have increased their overall lead in the Rogers Wireless South Division to six points over the Brooks Bandits.
Playing both games in Canmore, the Grizzlys posted a 4-2 win on Tuesday, Dec.20 and a 5-1 victory on Thursday Dec.22.
In the first encounter, the Grizzlys relied on the play of the power play and the penalty killers to secure the victory.
After the first period, the Grizzlys held a 2-0 lead on a power play marker off the stick of Dustin Moore and a short handed goal from Kyle Dorowicz, his third of the year.
After Eagles' sniper Chris Berry, cut the Grizzlys lead to 2-1, Steve Hougen blinked the redlight on a power play to restore the Grizzlys two goal lead to 3-1 after forty minutes of play.
In the final stanza, Dan McGuinness netted the Eagles' second marker while Braden Desmet replied for the Grizzlys.
Between the pipes, Cole Anderson blocked 33 shots while Eagles' netminder Ryan Rondeau kicked out 37 shots.
Meanwhile, in the second game on Thursday evening, the Eagles controlled the play right from the opening face-off but were unable to take advantage of their scoring opportunities.
Part of the Eagles' frustration in their poor goal productivity was due to the outstanding play of Anderson, who stopped everything except the kitchen sink.
Anderson was spectacular in the net making 45 saves. On several occasions, the Eagles were left alone in front of the Grizzlys' net and were afforded several glorious scoring opportunities but were denied by Anderson, who played one of his best games of the season.
Meanwhile, Nick Olynyk made 31 saves in the Eagles' net.
In the first period of play, the teams traded goals as Danny McSween netted the Eagles' goal and Curtis Beaudin replied for the Grizzlys.
After the opening face-off in the second stanza, Jeff Smyth took over the scoring honors as he blinked the redlight twice while Beaudin posted his second goal of the game.
During the third period, Smyth completed his hat trick with the only goal of the stanza.
Anderson, an AJHL all-star last season, has posted a 2.38 goals against average along with a .919 save percentage while rookie Matthew Wong has a 2.48 goals against average coupled with a .919 save.
Taking a glance at the AJHL scoring leaders, Desmet is in seventh place with 52 points on 15 goals and 37 assists.
Two Bonnyville Pontiacs' sharpshooters, Dylan Winchar and Mark Lester lead the scoring derby with 74 points apiece.
With the wins, the Grizzlys have increased their point total to 48 points while the Bandits have racked up 42 points. A point behind the Bandits with 31 are the Camrose Kodiaks while the Drumheller Dragons are in fourth place with 39 points.
During the Christmas break, the Viking Cup will be played in Camrose from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. An annual tournament, the Viking Cup attracts teams from the British Columbia Junior Hockey League, the AJHL, the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League as well as teams from Europe.
Representing the AJHL are the South Division all-stars as well as the North Division all-stars.
Tree Grizzlys' players, Ryan Eckdahl, Dustin Moore and Kyle Dorowicz will be suiting up for the South Division all-stars
After the Christmas break, the Grizzlys will entertain the Grande Prairie Storm on Jan. 6 and the Bonnyville Pontiacs on Jan. 7.

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Grizzlys move into first place
By Barry Williams
December 19, 2005

It wasn't a hostile take-over of the Brooks Bandits and the price was right for the Olds Grizzlys, two points.

With a 3-1 victory over the Brooks Bandits on Wed. Dec. 14 at the Olds Sportscomplex, the Grizzlys moved into first place in the Rogers Wireless south division standings two points ahead of the Bandits.

In the latest AJHL statistics released on Dec. 19, the Grizzlys have 44 points two ahead of the Bandits with 42 points.

This past weekend, the Grizzlys had an opportunity to widen the point spread but failed to do so by dropping a home and home series with the Drumheller Dragons.

Playing in Drumheller on Fri. Dec. 16, the Grizzlys lost 3-2 and in Olds on Sat. Dec. 17, the Dragons scored three unanswered goals in the third period to skate away with a hard fought 5-4 victory.

Before over 800 home-town fans on Saturday evening, the Grizzlys completely dominated the Dragons in every facet of the game except on the scoreboard.
During the encounter, the Grizzlys held the territorial play peppering Dragons' netminder, Jonathon LaRose, with 48 shots.

LaRose was simply outstanding between the pipes making several brilliant saves and when the final buzzer sounded, the Grizzlys' sharpshooters left the ice shaking their heads.

Mid way through the third period, the Grizzlys held a 4-2 lead and were enroute to pick up two points.

However, a series of penalties against the black and gold allowed Aaron Knelson to net a pair of power play goals to draw the Dragons even at four goals a piece.

Jeff Young notched the winning goal with four minutes left to play in the game.

As the clock clicked down to less than a minute to play, the Grizzlys pulled netminder Cole Anderson in favor of an extra attacker but were unable to notch the tying marker.
LaRose finished the game with 29 saves while Cole Anderson faced 18 shots.

Dustin Moore blinked the red light twice to pace the Grizzlys' scoring. Singleton markers were netted by Jeff Smyth and Curtis Beaudoin.

Other goal scorers for the Dragons were Derek Werenka and Joel Chisholm.

"Actually, we had no business being in this game, the Grizzlys outplayed us by a wide margin," said Dragons head coach, Rob Hegberg.

"There's no doubt the difference was our goal tending, LaRose played an outstanding game," Hegberg said.

According to Hegberg, theDragons' veteran players are leading by example and are excellent role models for the rookies.

"Over the summer our coaching staff spent countless hours recruiting players and I think we have the right mixture now," noted Hegberg.

"When you're playing the top team in the division, it's easy for the players to become motivated," Hegberg added, indicating the Dragons have a lot of respect for the Grizzlys.

"LaRose is an excellent goalie and this is not the first time he has beat us this year," said Grizzlys' head coach, Kevin Hasselberg.

Although the Grizzlys had lots of shots on LaRose, Hasselberg felt they didn't follow up on their scoring opportunities.

"We have to capitalize on our scoring chances," Hasselberg said indicating the forwards

have to drive to the net and pick up the garbage goals. In Drumheller, Anderson and LaRose were the stars of the game as both goalies turned in solid performances.

Anderson finished the game with 27 saves while LaRose blocked 29 shots.

Braden Desmet and and Adam Ross handled the Grizzlys' scoring. Meanwhile, Laine Allen, Jade Portwood and Derek Werenka notched the Dragons' goals.

Against the Bandits, Jordan Baker, Ryan Ekdahl and Kyle Dorowicz dented the twine for the Grizzlys.

Replying for the Bandits was Jade Portwood.

"I thought both teams played a bit conservative out there tonight," said Bandits head coach, Kevin Higo.

"Because this game was a battle for first place, the players didn't want to make a mistake," Higo said.

"They (Grizzlys) are offensive minded and if a team makes a mistake in their own end they can burn you," Higo added.

Once again the Grizzlys faced a hot netminder, as all-star Kyle Richter made 48 saves and was the only reason the Bandits were able to stay close to the Grizzlys.

"He (Richter) is probably the only reason we're challenging for first place at this point in the season," said Higo.

Because the Grizzlys have four lines with the potential of filling the net, Higo noted they are a hard team to match lines against.

"We're not a high scoring team so we have to play a sound defensive game to give us

the opportunity to win," Higo said.

"We're not a team to give up and we battle right to the final buzzer," Higo said, noting most of the games are decided by a single goal.

"Tonight, I thought they were better prepared than us and this was the difference in the game," Higo noted.

"It's not hard getting up for a game when there is so much on the line," said Grizzlys assistant coach, Chad Allen.

"We were very well prepared for this game and for the most part the players executed the game plan to perfection," Allen added.

Because the Bandits are great puck handlers, Allen indicated the Grizzlys were patient in their forechecking and as a result controlled the play in the neutral zone.

"I thought our transition game was well executed and we dominated the middle of the ice," Allen said.

"They didn't give us many good scoring opportunities," Higo said.

As a result of last week's AJHL action, the Grizzlys are leading the Rogers Wireless south division standings with 44 points while the Bandits have chalked up 42 points. Holding down third place with 41 points are the Camrose Kodiaks while the Dragons are fourth with 37 points.

This week the Grizzlys play two games against the Eagles in Canmore on Dec. 20 and Dec. 22. Their next action in the friendly confines of the Olds Sportsplex is on Fri. Dec. 23 when they entertain the German national team.

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Defensive struggle against Oil Barons
By Barry Williams
December 12, 2005

Two teams priding themselves in defensive play were involved in a defensive struggle at the Olds Sportsplex on Friday, Dec. 11.

When the final buzzer sounded the Fort McMurray Oil Barons skated off with a hard fought 2-1 victory over the Grizzlys.

And the Oil Barons rode the spectacular goaltending of Jimmy Bernier, who turned aside 33 shots fired his way by the offensive minded Grizzlys.
"Our goaltending has been very good throughout the season," said Oil Barons head coach, Gord Thibodeau.

"I thought Bernier was the difference in the game tonight," Thibodeau added.
"He made several outstanding saves in the second period to keep us in the game," Thibodeau noted.

Grizzlys' head coach, Kevin Hasselberg, agreed with his Oil Barons' counterpart saying..."their goaltending was the main reason the game was so close."
"We had several good scoring chances on our power plays but were turned away," Hasselberg added.

On a goal by Oil Barons' veteran sniper Matt Lamirande, the visitors held a slim one goal lead after the first period of play. in the second frame, Brandon Skinner increased the Oil Barons margin to 2-0.

Late in the third period, Kyle Dorowicz netted the Grizzlys' only goal, a short handed effort. With 53 seconds left on the scoreboard clock, the Grizzlys pulled netminder Matthew Wong for an extra attacker but they failed to net a tying goal.
Although Wong faced only 18 shots, he gave the Grizzlys the opportunity for a possible victory.

Thibodeau wasn't too concerned about the limited scoring chances the Oil Barons had during the game.

In most of our games, we've been out shot," said Thibodeau, noting his forwards shoot at the most opportune time.

"I thought the Grizzlys limited our scoring opportunities by keeping our forwards to the outside," Thibodeau noted.

Despite the loss, Hasselberg wasn't to worried about the negatives of the game and praised his players for playing a very well executed game.

"When a team plays a close checking game the opposition is going to have limited scoring opportunities," Hasselberg added.

"There was no doubt we out played them in both ends of the rink," Hasselberg said.
Meanwhile, the ability to shut down the Oil Barons high octane offensive threat was a feather in the Grizzlys' cap.

"We have three high scoring lines and the Grizzlys did an excellent job in shutting us down," Thibodeau added.

The win for the Oil Barons kept them in top spot in the Rogers Wireless north division standings while the loss for the Grizzlys kept them two points be hind the Brooks Bandits front runners in the Rogers Wireless south division standings.
In their last eight games the Grizzlys have racked up six wins, a loss and an overtime loss and Hasselberg is confident the Grizzlys will be at or near the top of the standings at the Christmas break.

"Our next game against the Brooks Bandits is important for it will be a battle for first place," said Hasselberg.

"We can't afford a loss if we want to keep pace with them," said Hasselberg.
One of the reasons, the Grizzlys have been successful in the past few games is the work of the penalty killers who have not allowed a power play goal in three games up to Dec. 10.

However, at the Max Bell Arena in Calgary on Sunday Dec. 11, the Calgary Canucks dented the twine three times on the power play but were defeated 5-3 by the Grizzlys.
Ben Farrer, Bennett Royer and Mitch McColm dented the twine for the Canucks.
For the Grizzlys Curtis VanGrinsven, Jeff Smyth, Parker Burgess, Steve Hougen and Kyle Dorowicz blinked the red light behind Patrick Inglis, who finished the game with 33 saves.
In his first game back after an injury, Cole Anderson made 20 saves between the pipes for the Grizzlys.

A rough chippy game, the Grizzlys lost the services of Parker Burgess who was injured when he was cross checked into the boards by Kyle Gotto, who received a five minute major and a game misconduct for his foolish actions. On the power play, the Grizzlys were unable to dent the twine mostly due to some exceptional saves by Inglis and scrambly play.

Besides playing the Brooks Bandits at the Sportscomplex on Wed. Dec. 14, the Grizzlys have a home and home series with the Drumheller Dragons. On Fri. Dec. 16, the teams will tangle in Drumheller and return to Olds on Sat. Dec. 17.

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Grizzlys complete multi player trade with Oil Barons
By Barry Williams
December 5, 2005

Olds Grizzlys' head coach, Kevin Hasselberg, has tested the trade waters.
On Thursday. Dec.1, Hasselberg completed a multi player deal with the Fort McMurray Oil Barons.

In the deal, the Grizzlys sent Jody Pedersen and Tyler Webb in exchange for Steve Hougen and Ryan Hore.

A three year veteran of AJHL battles, Pedersen came to the Grizzlys last year in a transaction with the Camrose Kodiaks. An AJHL all-star, Pedersen was chosen to the AJHL all rookie team three years ago and has played in two-All-star games as well as the Prospects game.

Meanwhile, Webb was in his second season with the Grizzlys. An excellent two way forward, Webb made his presence felt with the Grizzlys playing in different situations including on the power play and killing penalties.

As a rookie defenceman, Hore provided the Oil Barons with size and has the ability to deliver bone crushing body checks and he doesn't shy away from rough play as he has racked up 40 minutes in penalties so far this season.

Hougen is a gifted forward and will be a perfect fit in the Grizzlys' offensive threat. A three year veteran, Hougen has had his best offensive start as he has racked up 25 points on 14 goals and 11 assists. Besides providing offence, Hougen is also a solid defensive player as he is a masterful penalty killer.

According to Hasselberg, the trade benefits both the Grizzlys and the Oil Barons and he felt comfortable in making the deal.

"These transactions are a good fit for the teams and the players involved," said Hasselberg.
"I am very excited to have both players Hougen and Hore in the Grizzlys' line up," Hasselberg added.

"And the trade will allow both Pedersen and Webb a better opportunity to excel in a place where they are capable of playing in," noted Hasselberg.

In AJHL action this past week end, the Grizzlys put on a defensive clinic, as they defeated the Okotoks Oilers 5-1 in Okotoks on Friday, Dec. 2, and downed the Canmore Eagles 4-1 at the Olds Sportscomplex before 500 fans on Saturday, Dec. 3.

In both games their attention to play a solid defensive games reaped dividends as they failed to allow a power play goal to be scored against them in 12 opportunities.
On the other hand, their power play was smoking hot as they dented the twine for 5 goals in 11 chances with the man advantage.

And between the pipes, rookie netminder Matthew Wong stole the spot light in both games allowing just a pair of goals while handling a combined 60 shots.

Wong, filling in for the injured Cole Anderson has appeared in 15 games and has compiled a 2.33 goals against average and a .921 save percentage. Anderson has played 16 games and has a 2.60 goals against average and a save percentage of .913.

Against the Oilers, Parker Burgess dented the twine for a power play and a short handed goal to pace the Grizzlys offensively. Kirk Deeg, Braden Desmet and Kyle Dorowicz rounded out the scoring.
For the oilers, Nathan Zurak blinked the red light behind Wong who turned aside 27 shots. Between the Oilers' pipes Brycen Ebberwein handled just 15 shots.

In Olds, Michael LeClair notched a pair of goals with Parker Durgess and Dustin Moore adding singletons.

Netting the Eagles' lone goal was Mitch Jaffray.

Wong made 33 saves while the Eagles combination of Ryan Rondeau and nick Olynyk faced 37 shots.

With the wins, the Grizzlys closed the gap for first place honors in the Rogers Wireless south division standings to just a couple of points. Brooks Bandits continue to lead the division standings with 40 points while the Grizzlys have 38 points with two games in hand.

This week the Grizzlys trekk northward to Fort Saskatchewan to play the Traders on Tuesday, Dec. 6 and entertain the Fort McMurray Oil Barons at the Sportsplex on Friday Dec.9 at 7:30 p.m.

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Once a Grizzly always a Grizzly
By Barry Williams
November 21, 2005

For four years, Aaron Sept was a stalwart player for the Olds Grizzlys.

And with his junior hockey playing days behind him, Sept has decided to give something back to the organization who believed in him as a player and as a person. Sept is now an assistant coach with the Grizzlys and he believes he can make a difference with the current players by teaching them what he learned as a player and by relating to them the life experiences of being a Junior A hockey player.

"When I was a player with the Grizzlys, the organization and the entire community treated me well," said Sept.

"Because the people were so good to me when I played here, it made the decision of giving something back to the community very easy for me," Sept noted, indicating he is proud to be associated with the Grizzlys again.

"It is one of those things I will never regret and I hope I can be involved for years to come," Sept said.

"By helping out as an assistant coach, is my way of giving something back to the Grizzlys and I guess saying thanks to them for giving me the opportunity of playing in Olds," Sept said.

An AJHL all-star, Sept was an offensive minded player comfortable playing along the blue line and at times taking a turn on the forward line.

His dedication to the game and volunteering to assist the community earned him the prestigious Stuey Stewart award, an honor he is very proud of.

As a player, Sept had an astute mind for the game and he always strived to learn more in an effort to make him a better player. For most of his career here in Olds, Sept played for Garry VanHereweghe and he feels the knowledge he gained from the former AJHL Coach of the Year will make him a better coach.

"I looked up to him (VanHereweghe), he's a great coach and I just hope I can be as good as he is," Sept added.

"Everytime he (VanHereweghe) has a team the players respect him and because of this they are going to work as hard as they can," Sept added.

"And he always respects his players," Sept said.

"If there is one thing I can relate to the players it is to respect the coaching staff and their teammates," Sept indicated.

In AJHL action this past week, the Grizzlys picked up three out of a possible four points by defeating the Drayton Valley Thunder 1-0 on Nov. 15 in Olds and losing a 4-3 overtime encounter to the Okotoks Oilers in Okotoks on Nov. 18.

Against Drayton Valley, the only noise the Thunder made was when their bus started up and left town.

Although the scoresheet indicated a defensive struggle, the game on the ice was completely different as the Grizzlys held the territorial advantage outshooting the Thunder 28 to 16.

After a scoreless first period, Michael LeClair dented the twine with a power play marker seven minutes into the second period.

In the final frame, the Thunder were knocking on the Grizzlys' doorstep but they were denied entrance as Cole Anderson made several exceptional saves in registering his first goose egg of the season.

Meanwhile in Okotoks, Neil Graham netted the winning goal midway into the first overtime session beating Anderson on a partial breakaway.

Rounding out the scoring for the Oilers were Carter Madsen, Everett Sheen and Andrew Owasiak.

For the Grizzlys, Braden Desmet, Curtis VanGrinsven and Adam Ross blinked the red light. Ross's goal with two minutes remaining sent the game into the extra session.

With the single point garnished from the Oilers, the Grizzlys moved their seasonal total to 28 points good enough for second place in the Rogers Wireless south division standings. Leading the way in the south are the Brooks Bandits with 38 points. There is a log jam in the middle as the Camrose Kodiaks with 27 points are just a point behind the Grizzlys and one point ahead of the Drumheller Dragons with 26 points. In the past two weeks, the Dragons have fallen back as they were at one time challenging the Bandits for the lead in the south.

In the Rogers Wireless north division, the Fort McMurray Oil Barons are showing the way with 48 points, three ahead of the Spruce Grove Saints with 45 points. in the latest Canadian Junior Hockey League statistics, the Oil Barons are ranked as the best junior A team in Canada.

With 31 points on ten goals and 21 assists, Desmet is the leading scorer for the Grizzlys and has moved into the top ten in league scoring.

Veteran Mark Lestu, of the Bonnyville pontiacs, is the league's top sniper with 56 points on 22 goals and 34 assists. Team-mate Dylan Wichar is second with 51 points.
This week the Grizzlys take to the ice against the Calgary Canucks in Calgary on Tue. Nov. 22 and travel to Camrose to challenge the Kodiaks on Thur., Nov. 24. They play host to the Calgary Royals on Fri. Nov. 25 at 7:30 p.m in the friendly confines of the Olds Sportsplex.

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Grizzlys holding down second place
By Barry Williams
November 13, 2005

After picking up five out of a possible six points in AJHL action last week, the Olds Grizzlys are now holding down second place in the Rogers Wireless south division standings.

In 23 games so far this season, the Grizzlys have garnished 25 points on 10 wins, 8 defeats, 2 ties and 3 overtime defeats.

On Wednesday, Nov. 9, the Grizzlys defeated the Brooks Bandits at the Olds Sportsplex 6-2 while on Saturday Nov. 13, the Grizzlys skated past the Sherwood Park Crusaders 7-1. Playing in Carstairs on Friday, Nov.11, the Grizzlys and the Drumheller Dragons played to a 2-2 draw.

In all three games the Grizzlys were backstopped by outstanding netminding and stingy defensive play.

When the Grizzlys commenced league play this season, Grizzlys' head coach, Kevin Hasselberg, realized the defensive play would have to be solid if they were to generate any success. And defensively the Grizzlys have been superb as they have allowed just 63 goals against, third overall in league play.
"So far this season, the entire team has been working at improving their play in their own end," said Hasselberg.

"And they're very proud of their defensive play," added Hasselberg.
"We've won a few close games so far this season and this is a direct result of our defensive play and the maturity of the players," said Hasselberg, noting every player is comfortable playing a defensive game when they have a lead.
Because most of the players are veterans, Hasselberg noted the players approach the game with more confidence and they don't panic as much when they are involved in close games.

Part of the Grizzlys recent improvement in their defensive play has been the play of the netminding tandem of veteran Cole Anderson and rookie Matthew Wong.

"Both goaltenders have gained the respect of the players and they are comfortable playing in front of either goaltender," noted Hasselberg.

Although Anderson, an AJHL all-star last season, has played the bulk of the games this season, Hasselberg isn't afraid to ink in Wong as the starting goaltender. And Wong has responded when he is between the pipes as he has posted a 2.40 goals against average and a save percentage of .925. Among the masked men in the league, Wong is ranked as the fourth best and he has earned his place between the pipes.

Offensively, the Grizzlys are led by a crew of veteran snipers and although not one Grizzly is in the top ten in league scoring, the Grizzlys are an offensive threat every time they lace up their skates as they have racked up 80 goals and have the third best goals scored record in the league.

Despite giving opposing netminders sun burnt necks, the Grizzlys offensive threat has been spread around and not one player is within the top ten in league scoring.

With four balanced lines, Hasselberg has the luxury of playing any line in different situations.

"All four lines are contributing offensively and it seems a different line will step up their play in any given game." said Hasselberg.

In the off-season, the Grizzlys made a deal with the Drumheller Dragons to bring Braden Desmet, a noted veteran goal scorer, into the fold and the trade has reaped divedends as Desmet currently leads the Grizzlys in scoring with 29 points on 9 goals and 20 assists.

"He (Desmet) is an exciting unselfish player and a regular contributor in different situations," Hasselberg noted.

Desmet has played on a regular line, the power play and killing penalties. Two of his goals have been scored shorthanded and four have been notched on the power play.

Against the Bandits, Desmet had a four point outing denting the twine twice and adding a pair of helpers and was named the game star.

Other players to notch a goal against the Bandits were Dave Cowan, Curtis VanGrinsven, Jody Pederson and Jordan Baker.

With just two minutes left in the game, Judd Blackwater spoiled Mathew Wong's bid for a shut out notching an unassisted power play goal for the Bandits.

In Carstairs, the Grizzlys and the Dragons treated the 1,100 fans at the game to an exciting contest highlighted by exceptional goaltending as the Dragons' Jonathan LaRose and Mathew Wong put on a netminding clinic turning aside several glorious scoring opportunities executed by the opposition sharpshooters. LaRose made 48 saves while Wong handled 27 shots.
For the Grizzlys Tyler Webb notched both goals while Brandon Knelson and Kyle Anheliger replied for the Dragons.

Against the Crusaders, Tyler Webb chipped in with a pair of goals with singletons being added by Dave Cowan, Michael LeClair, Jeff Smyth, Braden Desmet and Parker Burgess.

Reid Fraser replied for the Crusaders.

This week the Grizzlys entertain the Drayton Valley Thunder on Wednesday Nov. 16 and travel to Okotoks on Friday Nov. 18 to tangle with the Oilers.