WCHL SLAPSHOT #32 v 4
January 5, 2002
In Part 1...
1- ON THE GOAL LINE
2- NEWSROOM
Season Guide, Mid-Season Report Cards
Week 7 Recap & Week 8 Preview
In Part 2...
3- AROUND THE WHEEL
In Memory of Andy, Thanks from May & Siwarski
Family
4- POWER PLAYERS
Players of the Month, Minnesota Moments by
B. Ulewicz
5- CHATTING ON THE BENCH
With Jason Drapinski
6- POWER FRIENDS & FAMILY
Minnesota Moments by Ulewicz Family
Welcome to the long awaited return of the WCHL
Slapshot! It is issue number 32! It's been awhile since I've written an
issue of the fabulous newsletter. You see, things in the WCHL took a sharp,
sudden redirection. We've been hit hard with two deaths within our WCHL
family. These tragic events have forced us to reevaluate everything in
the WCHL.
On a personal note... I've seen a change in myself.
I never realized how strong of a person I was until recently. In the past
4 months, I've lost 3 good friends to Muscular Dystrophy and as with everyone
I share the nation's grief with the September 11th disaster. I never dreamt
I'd lose both Jay May and Andy Siwarski. I carry on this league in honor
of two of my best friends, Andy and Jay. I miss them both greatly. I do
have many wordless states and moments now and then, but I'm pushing through
and I'll be better because of this. These have been the hardest 4 months
of my life. The WCHL has become a strange place without the two leading
members of the league. So the league has a new leader and in a less then
ceremonial manner, I'm going to try my best... so here we go...
We are slowly working on bringing the Slapshot
back to a decent schedule. While the Slapshot may not have been on schedule,
WCHL events have been and we've played half of the current season. The
Wolf Pack and the Outlaws are sitting on top of the standings. The purpose
of this edition of Slapshot is get you caught up to speed with the WCHL.
As you can see, the newsletter has taken a different approach to many
topics. Similar to the highways of Michigan the Slapshot is in the midst
of reconstruction so please pardon our dust. Kick back and enjoy the
Slapshot, this is merely the beginning...
So until next time, I'm on the goal line!
WCHL Slapshot Head Editor
Tom "Da Commish" Martin
2001-02 SEASON PRIMER
by Tom Martin
Hello out there all of you wheelchair hockey
fans! We welcome you to the WCHL 2001-02 Season. The Slapshot went on
a lengthy hiatus. During that time, many things changed and we'd like
to bring you up to date. Let's get caught up as we take a glance back
at the season so far...
The games themselves are similar to last season;
however, there are some rule changes. First, the goalies are still minding
the WCHL nets. However, goalies must be a part of the team's roster. In
other words, no more substitute players are allowed to play the goalie
position. Another new rule is the Line Change rule: no player can play
a full period. A goal-scorer MUST change after scoring a goal, and every
player must play at least 2 shifts of playing time per game. We will no
longer drop the puck. Instead, the ball will be between two opposing players.
Once the whistle is blown, these two players will battle for the ball.
Finally, switching ends has been added to the WCHL Season. Switching ends
or sides means that teams will change sides of the playing court at the
end of each period
The new rules allow new elements that add to
the success of a wheelchair hockey team. Roster depth for every team is
crucial, especially with the line change rule forcing teams to utilize
everyone on the team bench. For example, the top gun doesn't win games;
instead, the whole team works together. Think about it: the top scorer
needs to head to the bench after scoring, meaning another player has an
opportunity to get out and score. The old face-off method was always a
futile effort, never deciding outcomes. Now the improved face-offs give
every player the opportunity to win a face-off. We are already halfway
through our current season having finished Week 7 of our 12-week season.
For the purposes of this article, we are ignoring week 7.
The Wolf Pack has been an unstoppable juggernaut,
stomping through all comers with an incredible 5-0. Closely following
the Pack are the Outlaws, with only one loss, leaving them 4-1. In the
middle of the league are the all-new, all-different Cobras and Seals.
Both have very strong teams. However, the dreaded hockey curse of teamwork
took its sweet old time to settle in. Surprisingly, the defending Wheeler's
Cup champion Hornets are at the bottom. They took a sharp drop in the
rankings after losing 4 consecutive games. But the first half of the season
had several intense and suspenseful games. Now that you've been brought
up to date, come on out to watch the exciting WCHL games. You won't be
disappointed.
MID-SEASON REPORT CARDS
by Tom Martin
** NOTE: We are halfway through our current season. These report cards
are Slapshot's grades. For the grading, I looked at the team's performance
for the entire 6 weeks into the season.
WOLF PACK -- Beware of the Dogs
OVER THE OFF SEASON... Matt Motzny and
Kenny Haran both returned to their original rolling grounds on the Hornets.
Marty Witberg, Chuck Mallard, Nick Ireland, and Brian Ulewicz stayed with
the Pack. Joining the Wolf Pack this season are former Hornet Joe Zenicki,
former Outlaw Kevin Richter, and rookie Mary Stack.
REMEMBER LAST SEASON... The Pack started
slowly with three straight losses but turned around and ended their season
with 3 wins, 4 losses, and 3 ties. They worked their way from the bottom
of the standings into third place. Their season ended after what was an
awesome playoff series against the Outlaws. Both games were close ones,
ending with overtimes and shoot-outs, with the Outlaws winning each.
NOW THIS SEASON... Beware of the Dogs!
The Wolf Pack dominates this season so far, winning all 5 games. With
the additions of Zenicki and Richter, the Pack defense has increased providing
depth in the goalie position. Rookie upstart Mary Stack has proven to
be a huge playmaker for both the defense and offense. Her scoring setup
and shooting ability are unrivaled. After his experience as WCHL goalie
in an international tournament, Ulewicz's goaltending prowess is stronger
than ever. Nick Ireland, the defensive backbone of the Pack, is formidable
in setting up most of the Pack's deadly offense attempts. The nucleus
of the Wolf Pack's winning ways are the incredible tactics and teamwork
of
Marty Witberg and Chuck Mallard. Their excellence has rubbed off on their
teammates, making everyone beware the dogs.
OFFENSE: A. The team has
scored 28 goals and is very skilled at making several offensive strikes
in succession.
DEFENSE: A-. The defense itself is dominating
with Ireland and Zenicki on their squad. The team has allowed the lowest
number of goals with 10.
TEAMWORK: B. They can pass three times
before many teams have even noticed. They communicate with each other
well and demonstrate good teamwork on the defense.
ROSTER DEPTH: A+. They've got three possible
goalies and no matter who is on the court, they are always a force to
be reckoned with.
OVERALL: A. The Pack are on top, and looking
to stay that way. Their only obstacle is the Outlaws.
OUTLAWS -- Mirror Image
OVER THE OFF SEASON... Team realignment
worked well for the Outlaws. Kevin Richter departed, joining the Wolf
Pack. Jeff Bielecki, Dave Rosen, Eric Miller, James Crawford, and Sheryl
Stumbaugh all remained Outlaws for the new season. Anthony Nowak, a former
Cobra, became an Outlaw.
REMEMBER LAST SEASON... The Outlaws were
the only team to defeat the almost unstoppable Hornets. They gave chase
to the Hornets for the entire season, dueling for first place. Ultimately,
the Hornets and the Outlaws met in the Cup Finals, making it the first
WCHL series to go the distance of 3 games. However, it was a close series,
with the Hornets barely surviving to become the champions.
NOW THIS SEASON... Whoa! Their first game
against the Cobras was one the most exciting games I've seen in awhile.
The team demonstrated offensive muscle, with Anthony Nowak displaying
some grand shooting ability. James Crawford and Jeff Bielecki haven't
missed a beat since the playoffs last year. They've only lost one game
so far. Sheryl Stumbaugh continues delivering dominant performance this
season. Like last season, defense is still a powerful fortress with very
few holes. Dave Rosen and Eric Miller still provide the team strength
in defense and goaltending. But this team is not just a mirror image of
last year's team. If anything, they've improved.
OFFENSE: B+. With scoring
threats like Crawford, Bielecki, and Stumbaugh, it 's hard to get much
better.
DEFENSE: B+. Many teams that use a similar
defensive scheme for two seasons have trouble. Not these Outlaws! In fact
they've picked up some skills.
TEAMWORK: A+. No one has more teamwork
or ethics than the Outlaws; it's their constant edge over any opponent.
ROSTER DEPTH: C+. Not much depth in their
goalie reserves. They are having trouble with the new line change rule
and are inconsistent on depth.
OVERALL: A-. They are turning up the heat,
and this is only the beginning. The Outlaws are looking for a Wheeler's
Cup.
SEALS -- New Look Seals
OVER THE OFF SEASON... During realignment,
the Seals picked up former Hornets Matt Schwarck, Ryan Kay, and former
Cobra Chris Lemieux. Most of last season's team has departed as Brandon
Lesner and Claire Abraham moved to the Cobras and Matt Resetar joined
the Hornets. Paul D'Angelo and Zeljko Sreckovic remain with the Seals.
REMEMBER LAST SEASON... Three-peat was
the desire of championship-defending Seals. It was a rough season-- they
were in last place for most of it. Struggling for a playoff spot, the
Seals took it to the final week of season.
NOW THIS SEASON... The Seals are a surprise
team. Currently in the middle of the standings, they definitely can compete
with the Outlaws and Wolf Pack. Unlike last season, they've got a better
goalie reserve with Sreckovic and former Hornet goalie Ryan Kay. Matt
Schwarck is the type of player who adds to the entire scheme. Along with
Schwarck, Chris Lemieux brings leadership to the team. Along with his
already formidable defense. Zeljko Sreckovic has improved even more offensively.
Some might say it's a rebuilding period for the Seals, but if
this is rebuilding I don't want to see the final product.
OFFENSE: B-. Several opportunities,
but defenses are not having too much trouble in stopping them. They are
using a full-court press on offense. This is new to the WCHL. After some
practice it'll be nice.
DEFENSE: B. Compared to their previous
season, their defense is a lot better. Their goaltending is outstanding.
Schwarck's speed really helps their defense and Sreckovic is very adept
at blocking.
TEAMWORK: B. They play very well together.
It's often hard to believe this team is new at working together.
ROSTER DEPTH: C. They are light in goalie
reserves and offensive power is not evenly spread.
OVERALL: B. Solid team on offense and
defense, they've been very impressive so far. Looks like they got a playoff
spot in their future.
COBRAS -- Combo and Duos
OVER THE OFF SEASON... The Cobras picked
up two former Seals Brandon Lesner and Claire Abraham. They also acquired
Mo Gerhardt, a great rookie prospect. On the other hand, the Cobras lost
Anthony Nowak to the Outlaws, and Chris Lemieux to the Seals. Gary Bartle,
Mike Belanger and Jason Drapinski remain on the Cobras.
REMEMBER LAST SEASON... They suffered
a similar fate as the Seals, battling their way into the playoffs. They
barely made it, only to be eliminated by the Hornets. It was a rough season
for the Cobras; however, they had arguably the best goaltender in the
WCHL. Gary Bartle dominated in net blocking an incredible amount of shots,
earning the honor Goalie of the Year. Two tremendous rookies, Jason Drapinski
and Anthony Nowak, both showed great hockey skills and bright WCHL futures.
NOW THIS SEASON... The Cobras still are
fighting for a shot in the playoffs. Surviving their season might be tough.
They're plagued by the absences of Mo Gerhardt, who missed most of the
season due to a broken hip, and Gary Bartle, who experienced an extended
hospital stay for pneumonia. The Cobras have yet to display a full team
roster this season, leaving us wondering what might have been. Jason Drapinski
and Claire Abraham are quite a unique combination as both are excellent
hockey players either on defense or offense. Brandon Lesner is turning
into an awesome team player, working with everyone to get some
scoring going. Gerhardt's return provided the team with even more teamwork.
They've got the most varied weapons and depth on a different kind of WCHL
team giving many combinations and duos.
OFFENSE: B. It's hard
to tell which Cobra team is coming to play. They've shown some excellent
scoring ability.
DEFENSE: C. Drapinski and Abraham have
been playing some super defense. Bartle's absence in net has left the
Cobras with a rotating goalie.
TEAMWORK: B. They have shown sparks of
teamwork but inconsistently. It doesn't help having their teammates missing.
ROSTER DEPTH: D. Hardly their fault by
any means, but we'll see what's to come with a full Cobra squad.
OVERALL: C+. Missing half their team has
hurt this team the most. If their attendance improves, the Cobras could
turn this season around.
HORNETS -- A Slow Start?
OVER THE OFF SEASON... Matt Schwarck the
offensive powerhouse headed to the Seals as did the star goalie Ryan Kay.
Joe Zenicki headed to the Wolf Pack. The only remnants of the defending
champs were Tom Martin, Jen Deneau, and Jamie Porter. Two former Wolf
Pack players, Matt Motzny and Kenny Haran, joined the Hornets team. Matt
Resetar departed the Seals to play for the Hornets. Finally, the Hornets
picked up rookie Dean Olivas to provide some defense and
goaltending.
REMEMBER LAST SEASON... The Hornets became
the Wheeler's Cup Champions!!! Matt Schwarck dominated their offense with
occasional backup from Jen Deneau or Jamie Porter. They had the strongest
defense in the WCHL. Solid goaltending all season long-- it was the Hornets'
year.
NOW THIS SEASON... It's a rebuilding year
for the Hornets with several close games but no wins. Their defense is
still strong, but forced to block several shots in a row. This team is
still learning teamwork skills. Jamie Porter and Matt Motzny have been
the team's scoring strength Jen Deneau continues to impress the WCHL.
Matt Motzny and Tom Martin are the speedsters and premier defenders. But
it's been a rough year for the defending champs. They still have a chance
at the playoffs; perhaps this is only a slow start.
OFFENSE: C. It hasn't been pretty for
the Hornets on offense, scoring 9 goals total.
DEFENSE: C. The Hornets defense has kept
games close but not close enough. The team goaltending hasn't been strong
either.
TEAMWORK: C. It's starting to show, but
so far too many mistakes
ROSTER DEPTH: B. The team's attendance has
been terrific and not matter who is coming off the bench it's a fair trade--
many great WCHL players on this team.
OVERALL: C-. During a game, so much can
go wrong and the Hornets are finding this out the hard way. Hopefully
it's been only a slow start...
QUICK WEEK 7 RECAP
The WCHL played Week 7 of the 2001-02 season.
Things have changed somewhat in the WCHL standings. Our first game of
the day was the struggling Hornets tackling the Seals. After three periods,
the Hornets remained in a slump, falling to the Seals 6 to 3. The Hornets
are not doing well in defending their championship, and their next opponent
is the Outlaws. Meanwhile, the Seals head into a bye week with a victory.
The undefeated Wolf Pack met the Outlaws in the second game of Week 7.
The game ended in an upset as the Outlaws knocked the Pack down in a five-to-nothing
shutout. Similar to what they did with the Hornets last season, the Outlaws
have once again knocked down the first place team down and are attacking
for first place. The Pack are still in the hunt for first place and looking
to knock out the Cobras. For updated standings, look for a more detailed
Week 7 review in a following Slapshot.
WEEK 8 GAME DAY
by Tom Martin
- HORNETS (0-5) vs. OUTLAWS (5-1)
The struggling Hornets do battle with the Outlaws
in the first game of Week 8. In their last appearance, the Outlaws stomped
the undefeated Wolf Pack into submission with a 5-0 beating. They delivered
the Pack their worse and only loss of the season. Looking to stay on pace
to earnfirst place they've got to defeat last year's Finals opponents,
the Hornets.
With a 4 game winning streak on the line
the Outlaws are hoping to continue that awesome streak over the Hornets.
Oh yeah, with one more win the Outlaws clinch a playoff spot. At first
glance, it appears the Outlaws will waltz through the winless Hornets.
Not so fast, despite their record, the Hornets come to play and would
be glad to halt the Outlaws in their chase for first place. Remember for
the Hornets its do or die to keep alive for the playoffs. The way into
the playoffs is to win games and they will try their best to beat the
overwhelming odds of winning this game.
Here are some interesting match-ups to
watch for in this game. Outlaw Jeff Bielecki against Hornets' Matt Motzny
or Tom Martin somehow one of those two end up defending the Outlaws' passing
and shooting powerhouse. Jamie Porter taking on Sheryl Stumbaugh both
are rough and tough players and attack the ball and make excellent offensive
plays. Jen Deneau and Matt Resetar are two Hornets who make the most of
the offensive drive possible and are the backbone of the team's defense.
James Crawford versus any Hornet player, he's the one who has devastated
the Hornets in past meetings, he often slips through the holes in the
Hornets' defense. Hey that's all assumption but it will be a great game.
- COBRAS (1-4) vs. WOLF PACK (5-1)
In the second game of the day, the Cobras will
be taking on the Wolf Pack. The Wolf Pack might be wounded from a 5-0
defeat against the Outlaws, as of Week 7 the Pack needed a win to gain
access to the Playoffs. Still seeking a playoff spot the Pack can achieve
this by defeating the Cobras. The Cobras have been suffering from the
worse attendance in the league. For Week 8 we could see all of the Cobras
for the first time this season. Now is the Cobras' chance to get their
season on track and charge ahead for a winning record. Defeating the first
place
Pack might do just the trick in putting the Cobras back into this season.
What can you look forward to in this bout? The Cobras at full strength
for the first time this season. How will Brandon Lesner and Mo Gerhardt's
passing skills affect or improve their team? Another thing to look for
is the surgical defensive team of the Cobras' Claire Abraham and Jason
Drapinski to strike the offensive threat of the Wolf Pack's Marty Witberg.
On the Wolf Pack's bench you should be prepared for an offensive onslaught
especially with Chuck Mallard, Mary Stack, and Nick
Ireland. Look for some beautiful set ups and one-timer shots from the
crushing combinations on the Wolf Pack. Should be an exciting game to
say the least, keep your eyes open or you may miss something.
PART
2
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