For fans it’s the most exhilarating time of the season. For players it’s one shift, one period, one game closer to the ultimate prize, the Stanley Cup. The first round of the NHL Stanley Cup playoffs is often the most exciting and exhausting weeks in hockey, on Wednesday night the Boston Bruins faced off for Game 1 with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Playoff games garner high expectations, but for Bruins Head Coach Claude Julien, the expectations aren’t for what Toronto brings to the ice.
“I think it’s more about what I expect from our team. I don’t care what they do, what I care [about] is what we do.”
Heading into a series, it’s often easy to predict who has the edge. The Bruins came into the game with all but four players having playoff experience under their belt, combining for 1,273 postseason games and a staggering 22 Championship rings. The Bruins claimed the Stanley Cup in 2011 and they want to bring it back to Boston. But the Leafs haven’t seen the playoffs since 2004 and it is the thrill of finally making the playoffs that might make Toronto an unexpected driven rival.
Despite the recent struggles for the team, Bruins Tuukka Rask has proven that he’s ready for the quest. Looking to prove his continued worth for the Leafs, young goaltender James Reimer got the nod to open the series.
The downfall for Boston as of late has been the penalty kill. That proved to be the case when Patrice Bergeron went off for tripping, James Van Riemsdyk put his Leafs up 1-0 at 1:54, (Assists Bozak, Franson). Boston took full advantage of their power play opportunity shortly thereafter with attempts, although none made it through.
Physicality was the name of the game. Players on both teams opted not to shy away from using their bodies, it is playoff hockey after all.
Wade Redden netted his worth, literally when he made it a 1-1 game, (assists: Campbell, Paille, 16:20). The goal was accompanied but a surge of energy for Boston that lead to a power play opportunity off a Toronto slashing call (Dion Phaneuf, 17:55). Bruins had the added benefit of James Reimer losing his stick for a good 20 seconds, but the Leafs goalie held his own. It was after a blocked shot on the opposing end of the ice that Boston’s Nathan Horton skated in for the kill, making it 2-1, ( 19:48, assists Redden, Krejci).
The second period kept the Bruins spirits high early on when Toronto native, Tyler Seguin had appeared to make it 3-1. After going under review, it was stated that the puck hit e crossbar, effectively keeping Toronto in the game. A continued effort by Milan Lucic helped David Krejci get to the net at 10:25, putting Boston up 3-1. It became an ever frustrating period for Toronto as Johnny Boychuk led his team to a 4-1 (15:44, assists Lucic, Krejci) lead.
Toronto began the third period with desperation setting in, upping their game in a physical way, goading Boston to react. The method failed as the Bruins went on a power play early in the period, ultimately unable to capitalize. Fans cheered with excitement when they thought Patrice Bergeron made it 5-1 but the goal was ruled no goal.
Boston took Game 1 and leads the series over Toronto 1-0. The two teams are back in action for Game 2 in Boston on Saturday night.
By Katie Joly
As a fitness instructor, I am often asked by participants in my classes about fitness trends and whether or not the newest “exercise fad” is for them. Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of questions about CrossFit. Maybe you’ve heard of it, maybe you haven’t but it is a relatively new discipline and it has caught on like wildfire
all over the country. If you haven’t heard of it, you’re probably asking the same question as many of my participants: what is it?
What is it?
CrossFit is not your typical workout training method. It breaks away from static or stationary weightlifting techniques that focus on one muscle or muscle group. Instead CrossFit uses strength training, plyometrics, kettlebells, speed training, endurance training, and Olympic lifting to train athletes. CrossFit aims to work out your entire body at once versus just simply one part. Examples of CrossFit exercises (many you’ve probably heard of already) are burpees, power cleans, pull ups, and the snatch.
Who is it for?
I hesitate to say that CrossFit isn’t for everyone however, if CrossFit is something you are interested in trying, having a good base fitness level is important, especially if you plan to train on your own. The alternative option is join a CrossFit affiliate training center as their numbers and locations are growing rapidly around the country. If you are new to fitness then joining a CrossFit affiliate is your best option because you can receive a personalized plan from a certified instructor.
However, an option for someone who has a good base fitness level would be the Workout of the Day (WOD) posted on CrossFit.com. These workouts generally don’t involve much equipment making them ideal to do at home.
Benefits
CrossFit, like High Intensity Interval Training, is great because it can be completed in a very short amount of time. It involves explosive movements and endurance training, similar to many sports like ice hockey and football. There are also alternative CrossFit programs that can be tailored to certain sports.
Another benefit to CrossFit, particularly for those interested in the (WOD) is that the CrossFit website posts a new WOD each day, giving you variety and new challenges. The website also provides a comprehensive overview of CrossFit, exercise demonstrations, the CrossFit Journal and tips for training.
Concerns
If you are interested in joining a CrossFit affiliate training center, one of the first things you should do, just like when joining any other fitness center, is ask about the instructors’ credentials and background in strength and conditioning as some may not have the proper background. Individuals that have a background in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or Biomechanics spend many years learning proper lifting form and techniques. Do your homework. Make sure your instructor has the proper background and experience in the field.
Due to the intensity and vigorous nature of CrossFit, you should check with your physician or doctor to make sure this type of exercise is okay for your body. Also, due to intensity and quick and varied movements, the risk for injury increases with this exercise discipline which is why finding a trainer or coach who has the required qualifications is important and perhaps more importantly, inform your coach or trainer when something hurts or doesn’t feel right.
Is it for you?
Like any exercise routine, regimen, or trend, CrossFit has benefits and concerns that all participants, new and old, should be aware of. CrossFit provides intensity and variety and if you are an athlete or into fitness, you’ll probably love the challenge of CrossFit. If you are new to exercise, look into using a trainer or coach for personalized plan and check with your physician to make sure you are healthy enough to participate in CrossFit.
More information
If you are interested in learning more about CrossFit, a good first step is checking out their website: www.crossfit.com or going to your local CrossFit affiliate training center to watch a class and talk to a trainer or check out some videos online.
By Kelsie Plesac
Fans at the United Center got some free hockey as the Blackhawks defeated the Minnesota Wild 2-1 in overtime in the first game of the Western Conference quarterfinal. After more than 16 minutes of extra hockey Bryan Bickell tallied the game-winning goal and his 5th career playoff goal, bringing the Hawks up 1-0 in the series. This was the Blackhawk’s 8th overtime appearance in their previous 9 playoff games.
The Wild took the lead in the first period with Cal Clutterbuck registering the first playoff goal in his career at 4:49. Marian Hossa would even the score at 2:06 in the second period. The goal marked Hossa’s 37th career playoff goal and was assisted by Patrick Kane. The game would turn into a defensive battle with the only other goal being Bickell’s in overtime. The goal was assisted by Viktor Stalberg.
The Blackhawks and the Wild face off again Friday night in Chicago for game two.
With the first weekend of Calder Cup playoff hockey in the books in the AHL, each series has gotten through the first two games. The playoffs resume on Wednesday, May 1st. As is the case with any year in the playoffs, there have been a few surprises. Here you can see how the first weekend played out. The first round goes from 16 teams down to 8 in with best of 5 series. All subsequent rounds are best of 7.
In the Eastern Conference, the Providence Bruins sealed up the regular season conference title as well as the overall points title when they still had two games remaining to play. They were matched against the Hershey Bears. Hershey is a team who is very familiar with playoff success, but just barely made it in this season. Despite that, it is the Bears that lead the series 2-0 after two games played in Providence. Bruins goaltender, Niklas Svedberg, was one of the best of the regular season. The rookie goaltender seems to be struggling with his first professional post season, though, and has allowed 9 goals on just 52 shots through the first two games. This comes after posting a 2.17 goals against and .925 save percentage through the regular season. Conversely, Bears goalie Philipp Grubauer has let in 6 goals on 91 shots, putting up an impressive 54 saves in the second game of the series.
The Springfield Falcons earned the second spot in the East as the winners of their division and were the only ones from their division to earn a post season spot. They found themselves matched against the Manchester Monarchs. As recently as the beginning of April, many thought that the Monarchs were all but mathematically eliminated. They proved everyone wrong by taking 12 points in their last seven games of the season and locking up 7th place. Both games of the series have gone to overtime and both have had the same end. Falcons forward Cody Bass has netted overtime game-winning goals in back-to-back games to give his team the 2-0 series lead. Bass looks to lead his new team to a Calder Cup after having won it two seasons ago with the Binghamton Senators.
The Syracuse Crunch locked up the third seed in the East as the winner of the remaining division. They found themselves set to play the Portland Pirates. The Pirates, who went on a four game losing streak at the beginning of April, still claimed their spot when they turned it back around at the end of the month. Although these teams did not meet once during the regular season, it was immediately clear that tensions in the battle for the Calder Cup are high. Both games so far have included fighting majors as well as game misconducts. The Crunch have come out on top both times to lead the series 2-0. They look to defend their title. Last season, the prospects of the Tampa Bay Lightning won the Calder Cup in Norfolk.
The final match up in the Eastern Conference ended up being between the Binghamton Senators and the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, the 4th and 5th seeds respectively. Both teams come from the East Division of the Eastern Conference, along with Syracuse and Hershey. Being members of the same division, the teams met 10 times during the regular season and had a very good idea of the type of game the other played. The Penguins lead the series 2-0, but the games have been close. In the first game, the teams went to overtime and in the second game, the Senators scored with just 19 seconds left in the game to come within one but could not force overtime again.
In the Western Conference, the Texas Stars hold the top spot as the conference winner. For the first round, they take on the Milwaukee Admirals. The Admirals narrowly beat out division rivals, the Rockford IceHogs, for the final spot in the West. The two teams met just twice during the regular season, with Texas coming out victorious both times. But, the Admirals proved it would not be that easy during the post season. During the first game, they held on to force overtime. Rookie Admirals goalie, Magnus Hellberg, made 41 saves as they ultimately lost. Hellberg was impressive once again in game two, but this time he did not allow a single goal to help his team even up the series at 1-1.
The Toronto Marlies won the North Division and became the second seed from the West. Their opening series is against the Rochester Americans, the only other team from the North to qualify. Of the 10 meetings between the teams during the regular season, the Americans only managed to come away with 1 win. Although Toronto only took 18 shots in their first game, they easily won 6-3. Marlies forward Greg Scott, who has never been a crazy scorer, netted 4 goals on 4 shots, one of which was an empty netter. Game two was a much rougher game, but the result was similar. The Americans outshot the Marlies, but lost the game, and failed to score a goal, giving the Marlies the 2-0 series lead.
The Grand Rapids Griffins won the Midwest Division and were seeded 3rd in the West. They take on the Houston Aeros for their opening series. The Houston Aeros have a lot to battle for as they recently got news that they are leaving Houston after they are eliminated from the playoffs. The Aeros showed that fight in their first game as goaltender Darcy Kuemper put up 36 saves in a shutout and Justin Fontaine scored 2 of the 3 Aeros goals in the win. The Griffins were ready for the second game. They held off a Houston comeback as the Aeros scored 2 goals in the final 5 minutes. With the Griffins win, the series is tied 1-1.
Finally, the Charlotte Checkers and the Oklahoma City Barons earned the 4th and 5th seeds respectively, both coming from the South Division. During the regular season, the teams split their 8 game series. So far, it has not proved any different in the post season. The first game of the series went to overtime. Just 3 minutes in, Checkers forward Brody Sutter netted his second of the game to end it and give Charlotte the advantage. The second game was a convincing win for Oklahoma City, though. Mark Arcobello netted a natural hat trick in just under 10 minutes during the third period to seal the win and even the series at 1-1.
So far through the first 16 games of the Calder Cup playoffs, there have been 7 overtime games and 9 games decided by just a goal. There have been two hat tricks (Greg Scott – Toronto, Mark Arcobello – Oklahoma City). The Toronto Marlies will be the first team to have a chance to win their series as they play game 3 on Wednesday, May 1st and just need one more win. At the latest, the first round of the Calder Cup playoffs will be over on Wednesday, May 8th if the Providence Bruins can push their series to 5 games.
Photo: NHL Alumni
Obviously, we are all about hockey, hockey and drinking often go glove and glove. Each bottle of Hat Trick wine benefits the NHL Alumi Association:
“Hockey Is Canada.
And what better way to celebrate this long and rich history than with a great bottle of wine that embodies our pride and passion for all things Canadian.
The NHL Almuni Association has combined a great Canadian winery, outstanding wine and hockey legends to create the perfect “wine hat trick”. Each wine blend has been specifically crafted in a collaboration between the former NHL stars and the winemakers.
Proceeds from each bottle sold of the Hat Trick wine go right to the NHL Alumni Association to support various charitable causes and promote the game of hockey.
Products available in Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba and PEI.”
Hockey, wine, charity… all good things!
Forget the statistics, the standings and everything you knew about the regular season. It’s time for the 2013 NHL Playoffs. In the quest for the cup, anything can happen.
Western Conference:
Chicago Blackhawks (1) vs. Minnesota Wild (8)
Game 1: at CHI, Tue., April 30, 8 p.m., NBCSN, CBC
Game 2: at CHI, Fri., May 3, 9:30 p.m., NBCSN, CBC
Game 3: at MIN, Sun., May 5, 3 p.m., NBC, CBC
Game 4: at MIN, Tue., May 7, 9:30 p.m., NBCSN, CBC
Game 5: at CHI, Thu., May 9, TBD, CBC*
Game 6: at MIN, Sat., May 11, TBD, CBC*
Game 7: at CHI, Sun., May 12, TBD, CBC*
Anaheim Ducks (2) vs. Detroit Red Wings (7)
Game 1: at ANA, Tue., April 30, 10:30 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 2: at ANA, Thu., May 2, 10 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 3: at DET, Sat., May 4, 7:30 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 4: at DET, Mon., May 6, 8 p.m., CNBC, TSN
Game 5: at ANA, Wed., May 8, 10 p.m., TSN*
Game 6: at DET, Fri., May 10 TBD, TSN*
Game 7: at ANA, Sun., May 12, TBD, TSN*
Vancouver Canucks (3) vs. San Jose Sharks (6)
Game 1: at VAN, Wed., May 1, 10:30 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 2: at VAN, Fri., May 3, 10 p.m., CNBC, TSN
Game 3: at SJ, Sun., May 5, 10 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 4: at SJ, Tue., May 7, 10 p.m., CNBC, TSN
Game 5: at VAN, Thu., May 9, 10 p.m., TSN*
Game 6: at SJ, Sat., May 11, TBD, TSN*
Game 7: at VAN, Mon., May 13, TBD, TSN*
Saint Louis Blues (4) vs. Los Angles Kings (5)
Game 1: at STL, Tue., April 30, 8 p.m., CNBC, CBC
Game 2: at STL, Thu., May 2, 9:30 p.m., CNBC, CBC
Game 3: at LA, Sat., May 4, 10 p.m., NBCSN, CBC
Game 4: at LA, Mon., May 6, 10 p.m., NBCSN, CBC
Game 5: at STL, Wed., May 8, TBD, CBC*
Game 6: at LA, Fri., May 10, TBD, CBC*
Game 7: at STL, Mon., May 13, TBD, CBC*
Eastern Conference:
Pittsburgh Penguins (1) vs. New York Islanders (8)
Game 1: at PIT, Wed., May 1, 7:30 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 2: at PIT, Fri., May 3, 7 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 3: at NY, Sun., May 5, 12 p.m., NBC, TSN
Game 4: at NY, Tue., May 7, 7 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 5: at PIT, Thu., May 9, 7 p.m., TSN*
Game 6: at NY, Sat., May 11, TBD, TSN*
Game 7: at PIT, Sun., May 12, TBD, TSN*
Montreal Canadiens (2) vs. Ottawa Senators (7)
Game 1: at MON, Thu., May 2, 7 p.m., CNBC, CBC, RDS
Game 2: at MON, Fri., May 3, 7 p.m., CNBC. CBC, RDS
Game 3: at OTT, Sun., May 5, 7 p.m., NBCSN, CBC, RDS
Game 4: at OTT, Tue., May 7, 7 p.m., CNBC, CBC, RDS
Game 5: at MON, Thu., May 9, 7 p.m., CBC, RDS*
Game 6: at OTT, Sat., May 11, TBD, CBC, RDS*
Game 7: at MON, Sun., May 12, TBD, CBC, RDS*
Washington Capitals (3) vs. New York Rangers (6)
Game 1: at WAS, Thu., May 2, 7:30 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 2: at WAS, Sat., May 4, 12:30 p.m., NBC, TSN
Game 3: at NY, Mon., May 6, 7:30 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 4: at NY, Wed., May 8, 7:30 p.m., NBCSN, TSN
Game 5: at WAS, Fri., May 10, 7:30 p.m., TSN*
Game 6: at NY, Sun., May 12, TBD, TSN*
Game 7: at WAS, Mon., May 13, TBD, TSN*
Boston Bruins (4) vs. Toronto Maple Leafs (5)
Game 1: at BOS, Wed., May 1, 7 p.m., CNBC, CBC, RDS
Game 2: at BOS, Sat., May 4, 7 p.m., CNBC, CBC, RDS
Game 3: at TOR, Mon., May 6, 7 p.m., NHLN, CBC, RDS
Game 4: at TOR, Wed., May 8, 7 p.m., NHLN, CBC, RDS
Game 5: at BOS, Fri., May 10, 7 p.m. CBC, RDS*
Game 6: at TOR, Sun., May 12, CBC, RDS*
Game 7: at BOS, Mon., May 13, CBC, RDS*
*Denotes games to be played only if necessary
Many people are concerned about how to rebuild and replenish after a workout, however few people realize that what is eaten before competition and exercise greatly impacts performance.
The purpose of a pre-workout snack is to provide the body with a source of immediate fuel. The body breaks down carbohydrates more readily than it does fat or protein. If you eat high fat food just minutes before a workout your body will not use it as a source of energy during that period of exercise. Rather it will be stored and used for later.
As a result, you want to be sure to have foods that will quickly break down to glucose (the simple form of carbohydrates) and be used immediately during activity. Light, yet nutritious, snacks will energize you and help avoid symptoms of sluggishness during exercise and sport. Pre-exercise meals high in carbohydrates and containing some protein will extend endurance time and prevent exhaustion. It is also best to chose foods low in fiber; this will decrease any “stomach distress” during a workout.
It is best to consume meals two to four hours before a competition. However, a light snack can be consumed one hour to 30 minutes before participating in sport. If you are eating four hours before a balanced meal filled with carbohydrates, protein and fat will be stored in the body and provide optimal energy for activity later that day.
Bottom line, aim for foods high in carbohydrates (i.e, bread, cereal, oatmeal) that are also a moderate source of protein (i.e., one egg) one hour before a workout. Make sure these sources of carbohydrates are easy to digest, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. If so, stick with simple foods such as a banana or some pretzels.
Some suggestions for snacks one hour before performance include:
- Cheerios or other low sugar cereals mixed in with low fat Greek yogurt or some low fat milk.
- Six whole grain crackers and a hard boiled egg
- A slice of toast or half a bagel
- A granola bar
- ½ cup of oatmeal with some raisins
- A slice of toast with one teaspoon of peanut butter
- A piece of fruit
- Low fat yogurt with some berries
- Two whole grain waffles no syrup or butter.
For 30 minutes before a workout just have a handful of crackers, a slice of bread a piece of fruit, or a half of a sports drink should suffice.
Remember, each body is different. Take note of what you eat before every bout of physical activity and how you feel. This will help you decide which foods work best for you.
Finally, do not think that exercising on an empty stomach is a good idea; you’re body may not have enough energy stores to perform well. However, snacks should only be had if you are hungry or if it has been over four to five hours since you have eaten last.
The Devils Army is baffled by the “wasted season” the New Jersey Devils had. Many fans are dumbfounded, asking how a team that made it all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals last season, were unable to make it to the playoffs this year.
Fingers have been pointed and various excuses have been made as to where the Devils went wrong. Was it losing all-star captain, Zach Parise? Or was it that two players suffered extensive injuries at different points in the season? Was it poor management, poor coaching, or lack of leadership? No answer seems to satisfy disappointed fans.
Despite the loss of Parise, the Devils started the season strong and with a similar line up to the one during the 2012 Stanley Cup Finals. Clarkson scored 10 goals in the first 15 games. However in the next 33 games, he will only be able to put the puck in the net five times. The Devils were at the top of the Eastern Conference until legendary goalie, Martin Brodeur was placed on injury reserve (IR) with a sore back.
And this is where the bad luck begins. Things definitely took at turn for the worse due to a series of injuries that ensued, which were ironically correlated with superstitious events.
I do not think that it is a coincidence that the Devils season went down hill once mercury went into retrograde on February 23. This was ironically the time that Marty Brodeur was placed on (IR). The first game he missed was February 24th. Before being placed on IR, the Devils were 8-2-3. The team went into their first slump of the season as Marty would miss a whopping total of 13 games.
Incase you are not aware, mercury in retrograde can have some serious effects. Mercury in retrograde is the term used referring to the illusion that the planet appears to be traveling backwards through the zodiac; it happens three times a year. The first time for 2013 was February 23 through March 17, yet its affects can be felt a few weeks before and after this time period. Planet Mercury governs all issues associated with transportation and communication; it rules education, intelligence and truth. When Mercury is in retrograde it can be hard to work as a team, and to form partnerships and alliances.
Retrograde periods are also a time to reflect, repair and reconnect. During this time period the Devils could have made better use of their younger goalies on their AHL team, Keith Kinkaid and Jeff Frazee. After all, these goalies very well could be the future of the Devils with goalies, Martin Brodeur and Johan Hedberg nearing the end of their careers.
With Mercury in retrograde confusion, delays and frustrations are bound to happen; plans go askew. This is exactly what happened to the Devils as they struggled without Marty, the backbone to the team. While Marty was out of the net, Hedberg’s record was 3-8-2. Bringing the team’s overall record down to 13-11-6.
Mercury went out of retrograde March 17th and Marty returned to the net on March 21st to take on the Carolina Hurricanes. He returned in style with his 3rd career goal. The following game, against the Florida Panthers, Marty was able to earn his 666th win; the number that symbolizes Satan. With this fitting number for the New Jersey Devils, the Devils Army finally thought things were getting back on track. However, it is during this 2-1 victory, that scoring powerhouse, Ilya Kovalchuk, injures his shoulder with about 10 minutes left in the game. Kovalchuk, not only brings life to the ice, but also leads the NHL with the most short-handed goals this season; he accumulated 4 short handed goals.
After this game, it is a slippery slope for the Devils. What was thought to be a minor injury, turned into an 11 game absence for Kovy. After the 666th win, the Devils lose 10 games in a row. Coincidence? I think not.
It was at this point in time that the media was questioning if the 666th win for Marty was a curse on the team. During this double-digit losing streak, we see the Devils dominating possession of the puck, and outshooting their opponents. However, they simply couldn’t get the puck into the net. They also seemed to lose confidence if their opponents scored the first goal.
Hockey is a very superstitious sport. Players have specific traditions before each game, such as eating the same pre-game meal and wearing lucky socks or ties. And with this series of unfortunate events, blaming it on luck seems to make sense.
Just when things couldn’t get any worse, as the season winded down, captain and defenseman Bryce Salvador was out for the rest of the season due to a bruised wrist. In the same game that ended Salvador’s season, aggressive defenseman Anton Volchenkov was suspended four games for elbowing Brad Marchand of the Boston Bruins. To top it off their long standing rivals, the New York Rangers, ended their playoff dreams this season; defeating the New Jersey 4-1.
The Devils finished the season 22nd in the league, with a record of 19-19-10 and 48 points; one of their worst records in history. Additionally, this is the second time in three years they fall short of making the playoffs. Consequently, their chances to win the lottery for draft pickings are quite low.
During a 48 game season there is no room for error and extensive injuries; there is also no wiggle room for bad luck. A number of factors caused this anticlimactic season for the Devils, and streaks of bad luck just seem to coincide with these series of unfortunate events. Spooky events, such as Mercury slipping into retrograde and the symbolism of the 666th win should not go unnoticed.
This bumpy season has certainly bruised egos. In their last game of the season versus the Rangers it was evident the Devils had checked out. No longer in the playoff race, since the Rangers knocked them out just the weekend before, the Devils felt no purpose in their final game.
The Devils ended the season on a sour note, with a 0-4 shutout. Many members of the Devils Army made the trip across the Hudson River, excited to watch the Devils take on the Rangers. However, the Devils did not even bother to provide their fans with an exciting show against their longtime rival, or to end the season on a positive note.
With their season ending, the Devils now have four months to prepare for the 2013-2014 season. It is anticipated that many changes will come. Key players, such as Elias, Sullivan, Clarkson, Zubrus, Zidlicky, Ponikarovsky, Harrold and Kostopoulous are all unrestricted free agents now. Which of these players will be returning for next season is unknown. Devils veteran, Martin Brodeur plans to return for his 22nd season.
At this point, the Devils Army has to have faith that general manager, Lou Lamoriello, will do his best to keep at least some of these players. He also needs to acquire and utilize new young players that can ignite this team on the ice. This includes, Eric Gelinas, who recently made his debut with the New Jersey against Pittsburgh on April 25th, as well as young goalies, Kinkaid and Frazee of the Albany Devils. This off-season will hopefully be a time to rebuild some confidence, especially for players like Adam Henrique, last year’s rookie of the year. Henrique seemed to acquire a classic case of the sophomore slump this season.
It will be exciting to see how everything unfolds for this team, and what the 2013-2014 season will hold for the New Jersey Devils. Possibilities seem to be endless and hopefully our luck will turn around.
Photo: NY Magazine
Some of you may have read this interview with the Keeper of the Cup, some may not. It has become sort of a tradition to re-share this time of year.
Let’s face it, when it comes to Stanley, we just can’t get enough. We bring you, Mike Bolt, Keeper of the Cup:
If you’re a hockey fan, you undoubtedly know about hockey’s holy grail: The Stanley Cup. The most coveted trophy in hockey and arguably all of sports, it’s awarded to the NHL playoff champion at the end of the best-of-seven Stanley Cup Finals. The Cup is surrounded by legends, traditions and more notably, the “Keeper of the Cup.”
It can be said that the “Keeper of the Cup” has the most prestigious job in hockey. It’s a position that doesn’t come from a job recruitment site; but from previous years of hard work and employment with the Hockey Hall of Fame. While the Stanley Cup is often accompanied by Phil Pritchard, it also spends approximately 250 days of the year with Mike Bolt.
Bolt, a Toronto native spent 4 years working at the Hockey Hall of Fame before being appointed the “Keeper of the Cup,” a position that he’s held for 12 years. “My dream was to win it, but that obviously didn’t work out,” Mike said. “To be honest, working at the Hall of Fame is an honor and when they asked me to become “Keeper of the Cup” it was again an honor and a thrill. It wasn’t something that I thought about. I knew of the job, but I never thought that one day I’d be one of the guys who got to travel with the Cup. I only hang with winners.”
For a hockey fan, becoming “Keeper of the Cup” may sound like a dream. But keeping the Cup in shape for appearances, player days and photographs is just one of the many things that come with the position. From the “Keeper” himself, a job description would read:
“A person who likes to travel, likes long hours, likes to be at a party everyday. Likes the game of hockey immensely and the history of the game. Someone who is a good public speaker and can tolerate the same questions over and over and over again. You need to be good looking, let’s not kid ourselves,” he said with a laugh. Obviously a good sense of humor is needed as well. “Patient and know when to bring the hammer in and make sure everyone is being safe and respectful at the same time. There’s a lot of different hats that the Cup keeper has to wear, that’s for sure.”
One of those hats involves keeping the Cup appearance-ready:
“At the end of everyday or the start of every morning you give the Cup a full clean.” Despite being one of the most prestigious trophies in sports, the Cup is cleaned like many other things. “Occasionally we’ll use silver polish, but more often we’ll just use soap and water. We’ll put it in the shower and rinse it down and then buff it dry, that really brings the shine.”
The Cup will get a nice silver polish for the finals and perhaps one or two other times during the season.
Not only a history of the game, but a history of the Cup itself is a major part of the “Keeper’s” position. We all witness it, the last few seconds of the deciding game in the Stanley Cup finals; the seconds before a team is declared a loser or champion. That picture-perfect moment when the Cup is hoisted above the captain’s head; shining in all of its glory. The 35-lb Cup you see hoisted is the presentation Cup the same one that will travel the world with each champion during the off season. Although it does have a doppelgänger of sorts that resides in the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. Something else that resides in Toronto:
“The original bowl that Lord Stanley donated back in 1892 for $48.67 sits behind glass in a vault in the Great Hall,” Mike continued. “In the vault is also where the retired rings go. A lot of people think that the Stanley Cup keeps getting bigger and bigger every year, it does not. Every 13 years we remove a ring, cut it in half and stretch it out. It then gets mounted on the wall in the Hall of Fame. For example the 2011 Bruins will be on the Stanley Cup for 58 more years.”
While every season the Cup adds a new round of engravings to its already historical rings, it has had a few spelling mistakes over the years.
“In 62-63 the Toronto Maple Leafs were spelled the Toronto Maple Leaes, New York Islanders in 80-81’ were spelled the New York Ilanders and the Boston Bruins in 72’ are spelled Bqstqn.”
Though not ideal, these mistakes are a memorable addition to the long list of engravings that have graced the Cup’s surface throughout the years.
A little math equation, 250 x 12= 3,000. As the “Keeper of the Cup,” Mike has spent approximately 3,000 days traveling the world with hockey’s elite group of Stanley Cup champions. Not only does the Cup enjoy a day with every player, but also members of the coaching staff and organization. Hockey is a sport enjoyed and played worldwide, that means that every organization has talent hailing from all over the world.
“There are so many great spots, even the spots that aren’t that great, it’s all about the experience of sharing the Cup,” Mike added. “We’ve been to really small towns and big cities, but everyone always has the same excitement of seeing the Cup.”
The Cup (and Mike) have no borders and an impressive passport to say the least. With a list of locations longer than a pre-season roster; obviously the Cup has traveled all over North America and throughout Europe.
“We’ve been to a lot of remote locations,” commented Mike. “It’s been to Afghanistan to visit the troops, it was a really neat spot to be at. Being around the men and women that are doing a tough job and in the middle of a war zone, that was a really cool experience.”
A privilege that is often most associated with winning is Cup day; a day granted to each individual player spent by their choosing.
“It can be in someones backyard, on a lake or going out on a boat, it’s whatever the guys want to do,” Mike said. Comparing Cup day to a wedding, Mike continued, “people fly in from all different parts of the country. Being able to share it with your family and friends is kind of what it’s all about.”
While the Cup’s location may change, the rules set in place during someones day do not.
“Their are some rules players need to obey on anyone’s day with the Cup; the players are allowed to lift it, if you’re important you might get a sip of champagne if the player so decides, but the players are the ones who have to hold it. Have a fun time, a safe time and keep it respectful.”
Following these rules seems like a small price to pay to be in the presence of one of the greatest and oldest trophies in sports.
“You see the smiles it brings to everybody and every day is like that.”
If only the Stanley Cup could talk, the stories that have accumulated over the years are bound to be endless. Some are heard and others probably share a spot in the vault at the Hockey Hall of Fame. As “Keeper of the Cup”partaking in a wide array of events throughout the year and witnessing these aforementioned stories is all part of the job description. They obviously don’t call him the “Keeper” for nothing. Keeping with the title and not committing to sharing anything too crazy is probably a safe bet.
“The parties can get a little wild, I’ve had Kid Rock play at a few of them. A lot of rock stars, movie stars and TV stars show up to these parties; it’s always fun.”
Stressing the importance of not only fun, but safety, the Cup isn’t always just about a party.
“Sometimes people have cereal out of it in the morning, or ice cream sundaes — that’s another thing that gets done out of it,” Mike continued. “It’s been fishing an awful lot, it’s about the adventure of it.”
The Cup has certainly found itself on many adventures throughout the years, most recently it missed a flight out of Boston en route to 2011 Champion Nathan Horton’s Cup day. “For whatever reason, the Cup did not make it to the plane.” With most of the time spent traveling, it’s amazing that it doesn’t happen more often.
“We only have a certain amount of control when it comes to flying around. You check it in and you explain to the airline what you have, it’s up to them how they decide to take control of it. Once you have it inspected by the TSA it’s in their hands and you hope that they do their job.”
With regard to the Boston flight incident: “In situations like that, you hope that you’ll get a little extra assistance because it does make the news. It wasn’t a rumor, it happened and it made the press.”
It’s important to point out that Mike wasn’t the “Keeper” on duty. The “Keeper of the Cup” position is primarily fulfilled by Mike Bolt and Phil Pritchard. However, the position is also shared with two others; Howie Borrow, who helps throughout the year, and Walt Neaubrand, who primarily lends a white glove of assistance in July and August.
Under a 12-year reign as the “Keeper of the Cup” it’s safe to say that Mike has spent time with a variety of teams and players. If he favored one more than another, he certainly wouldn’t say. But as an avid hockey fan and having extensive knowledge of the game and style of play necessary to make it to the final game, you have to wonder if he’s ever made the prediction of a Stanley Cup winner.
“I make a prediction and I keep it to myself, then I make another prediction during All Star Break, write it on a piece of paper and no one ever knows. The only year that I was ever right was 2002, that was the Detroit Red Wings,” he lamented. “That’s the great thing about our sport, it really is hard to figure out who is going to win.”
Regardless of the winner, “it’s some of the most exciting playoffs of any sport.”
Claiming that he’s not biased despite working in hockey, he’s a football and baseball fan as well. “Hockey has edge-of -your-seat excitement, non-stop. Other sports are exciting but we’re talking blood rushing, heart pumping, all 60 minutes and especially in overtime.”
It’s clear that he holds a passion for hockey, a sport in which he’s built a career albeit off the ice. The “Keeper of the Cup” is clearly more than just a constant companion for Stanley, he’s a fan of the game that’s beloved by many. A fan, like many of us that watches teams encounter hardships throughout the season and publicly or secretly cheers for them to succeed. Perhaps there is only one difference between Mike Bolt, “Keeper of the Cup” and an everyday hockey fan. After witnessing those seasons of hardships; he’s center ice for the biggest triumph of all them all. The Stanley Cup.
The Springfield Falcons are geared up for their first playoff series in ten seasons and are happy to have been able to bring playoff hockey back to the city tonight. With the playoffs starting now, everything resets to zero. It does not matter how many games you won during the regular season. Every team is focused on the fifteen wins it takes for a team to hoist the Calder Cup. Anything can happen and any player can step up to lead their team to victory. The Falcons are fortunate to have good veteran players that have been in this situation before. Those players can help guide the players who have not seen postseason action yet in their professional careers.
“We’re expecting to win, that’s the game plan. This is what the team has worked for all year,” Cody Bass said. “We’ve all tried to lead by example and pass on words of advice to the younger guys. Our young guys this year have stepped up and are a big part of our team. It’s a new season now, though, and it’s going to be a long road and a lot of hard work.”
You cannot talk about the Springfield Falcons without talking about captain Ryan Craig. He has been a true leader on the team and someone all the players have looked to and respected. Rookie forward Michael Chaput, who finished leading all rookies on the team in points, played on a line with Craig for three months and understands the value in that.
“I played with [Ryan Craig] for almost three months and he just gives you so much good input,” Chaput said about the captain. “He’s played the game for awhile and he’s played up in the NHL. He’s seen a lot of things and he just gives you good insights on what to do and what not to do.”
Chaput had a slow start in terms of scoring before exploding in January. Since then, he has had ice time in all different situations and has been playing on the top lines. He even earned his first NHL call up to Columbus but unfortunately did not get into a game before being sent back. It is clear that he knows what to do with the puck when he is on the ice and hopes that will continue through the playoffs.
“I came in just trying to play my game. You have to earn your ice time and earn the coaches trust. I was trying to play hard and play with intensity. I’ve been fortunate to play with good players.”
Cody Bass is another player who is lending experience to the team. Although he has not been able to play many games this season, largely due to injury, he played all the games at the end of the season. The playoffs are something he is very familiar with, having won a Calder Cup Championship during the 2010-2011 season with the Binghamton Senators. He knows the tough game he plays will be important for the playoff run.
“That’s who I am. I try to bring a piece of the puzzle. I play the game hard and I like to play physical,” Bass said about his approach to the game. “Playoff hockey is a different game. It’s a mind game and it’s about drawing penalties. I’m not going to change anything, just play hard and contribute where I can with the team.”
The players also understand that you cannot underestimate a team in the playoffs or take anything for granted. The Falcons will be playing the Manchester Monarchs in a best of five series. Although Springfield won 5 of 6 against Manchester during the regular season, the Monarchs finished strong, clinching a playoff spot many did not think they could. Manchester went on a win streak at the end of the season that edged out other teams in the conference for one of the final spots. It will not be an easy series for Springfield.
The Falcons will hope that the reasons they were successful all regular season hold true for the playoffs. Curtis McElhinney was solid between the pipes, though he does not like to take credit for himself. It has been a focus on the team as a whole as opposed to singling out individual players. The team also spread out the scoring with it coming from veterans and young players alike. Towards the end of the season, Columbus assigned Boone Jenner to Springfield after his junior team, the Oshawa Generals of the OHL, finished their season. He put up 3 goals at the end of the regular season and did not seem to have any trouble adjusting.
“I was excited to come here with the great team they have and just wanted to work as hard as I can. There are some great players that have set me up for goals and I’ve been lucky to put a few of them in,” Jenner said. “I’m excited. This is my first taste of playoff hockey at the pro level. It’s going to be a step up.”
Obviously, the end goal for any team is to earn the honor of being a Calder Cup Champion. While the Falcons are no different, they understand that they have to take it one game at a time and treat each game as being important. It is impossible to miss the excitement the players feel, though. At a recent practice, it was clear they were working hard but still incredibly happy to be gearing up for postseason. They were also having a lot of fun as they fine-tuned their skills. As the players practiced odd-man rushes, four-forward power plays, and short-handed situations, their other teammates cheered for each nice goal and impressive save.
For the first best of five series, the Falcons host the Monarchs in Springfield Saturday, April 27th at 7pm as well as Sunday, April 28th at 4pm. Then they head up to Manchester for game three and four on Thursday, May 2nd and Saturday, May 4th, both at 7pm. Game five is scheduled to take place back in Springfield on Sunday, May 5th. Games four and five are only if necessary.
Photo: Springfield Falcons
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