Chicago Force News

Guran Notches Big First Goal To Keep Fairbanks' Series Alive

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 10:36:16 -0500

The Topeka RoadRunners knew coming into the South Division finals that they would have to take advantage of the opportunities they got while limiting Fairbanks.

The Runners succeeded in limiting the Ice Dogs to 17 shots Friday night but couldn't cash in on their own chances in a 3-1 loss in game four of the best-of-five series at Landon Arena.

The series is deadlocked 2-2 with game five of the series to be played at 5:05 p.m. Sunday at Landon Arena. The winner will move on to the Robertson Cup tournament, which will decide the North American Hockey League champion.

The RoadRunners also shot themselves in the foot with costly penalties down the stretch.

"There were definitely some questionable penalties that weren't going both ways," Topeka coach Scott Langer said. "But at the same time when you give up three goals on 17 shots, you're not going to win too many games.

Fairbanks took advantage of its first power play when Nick Guran flicked in a shot off a rebound to give the Ice Dogs a 1-0 lead. The Runners went 0-for-3 on power plays in the first period, while Fairbanks was 1-for-3.

The Ice Dogs the took control of the game in the third period with two goals. Andrew McCabe lit the lamp at 5:06 of the period before Arthur Bidwill delivered the knockout blowon a five-on-three power play with 11:20 left to play.

"We had good spurts of (intensity)," Langer said. "(Fairbanks) frustrates you the way they play defensively and that's kind of the way it went tonight."

Ice Dogs coach Rob Proffitt said he was pleased with how his team responded after letting a 3-1 lead slip away Thursday. "This team, every time they've had their back to the wall they've answered it very well. It's going to be another heck of a game on Sunday afternoon." Fairbanks goalkeeper Cody Reichard picked up the win for the Ice Dogs, collecting 30 saves on 31 shots.

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Kings dominate Fred Page Cup Opener

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:46:04 -0500

Pembroke crushed the host Pictou County 7-1 to win the first game of the round robin. Mike Santee notched one assist. Pembroke will face off with the Yamouth Mariners on the 25th.

Bartus Keeps The Phantoms Alive In The Series

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:34:43 -0500

Phantoms goaltender Garret Bartus rejected 30 St. Louis as the Mahoning Valley Pahntoms staved off elimination Wednesday with a 3-0 defeat of St. Louis at the Ice Zone.

“The big difference tonight was that we played as a team,” Hirschfeld said. “An early goal set the tone for us and we showed plenty of character throughout the game. When you add [Garrett] Bartus’ performance in goal, his play made it a little easier on us the whole night.”

After Derek Graham notched his third goal of the postseason at 15:58 for a 3-0 Mahoning Valley lead, Bartus held his ground the rest of the way and secured the Phantoms’ win.

“I give all of the credit tonight to my defense because they did a phenomenal job out front all game,” Bartus said. “It’s a good feeling to win like this because we just lost two in their barn, but came home to hold serve in our own house.” “You can never look ahead because that is when the opposition sneaks up on you,” Bartus said. “If we just play Friday night like we did tonight, then it should be a good overall game. Both teams skated really hard tonight at both ends of the ice,” he added.
The Bandits held a 30-22 shot advantage, including 20-12 over the final two periods of play. “When you have 30 shots on goal you are supposed to score a few goals. That just wasn’t the case for us tonight,” St. Louis head coach, Cooper said.

Alumni Season Roundup: Mike Janda

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:42:28 -0500

As a Freshman, Mike Janda played in 27 games for the 2007-2008 season, notching 4 goals and 2 assists. Mike janda didn't go straight from the Chicago Force to RIT, but played for the Chicago Steel in the USHL from 2005-2007. Combining those two seasons, he notched 12 goals and 22 assists. One of those goals came on the one man advantage power play. Janda will return to RIT for the 2008-2009 season.

Alumni Season Roundup: Joe Hall

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 22:11:19 -0500

Joe Hall just finished his first season as a freshman with Oswego State University playing 25 games, posting 14 points. 6 of those points were goals, and 8 were assists. Joe took advantage of two power plays and notched 2 game winning goals out of the 6.

Two Force Alumn On Nichols College Record Books

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 16:33:11 -0500

As of the end of the 2007-2008 season at Nichols College, Two Chicago Force alumn have made it to the All-Time Record Books. Anthony Monte slipped in the second spot for goals scored, the most since 2005. Anthony is followed by Ryan Gervais in the 8th spot. Anthony Monte has made it to the 7th spot in the records for Assists with gervais in the 14th spot, separating them by just 15 assists. The third record these two have set is points. Anthony managing to notch 130 points so far in his career with Nichols, with Ryan posting 92. The duo went to Nichols College in 2005 when they left the Chicago Force.

Bartus Stands Tall Against St. Louis Power Plays

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 10:07:55 -0500

On April 18, 2008, the divisional finals went under way. Game one in the series went to the St. Louis Bandits. Bartus made 36 saves on the night while holding the potent St. Louis power play to just one goal on 11 chances. The Phantoms went 0 for 6 with the man-advantage.

NAHL Second Round Playoff Schedule Announced

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 07:01:23 -0500

NAHL Second Round Playoff Schedule Announced

April 24, 2008

Three of the Chicago Force Alumni will be moving on for their bid at the Robertson Cup Championship in St. Louis Missouri. Garrett Bartus will backstop the Mahoning Valley Phantoms while Johnny Meo tries to notch a few goals for them and Nick Guran who earlier this year moved up to play for the Fairbanks Ice Dogs, will join them in their quest for the cup. Mahoning Valley is the second seed for the North Division, second to St. Louis. Fairbanks is also the second seed in the South Division, second to Topeka. Win/Loss updates will be posted as they become available.

Mahoning Valley Phantoms vs. St. Louis Bandits

Game 1: Friday, April 18 @ St. Louis - L

Game 2: Saturday, April 19 @ St. Louis - L

Game 3: Wednesday, April 23 @ Mahoning Valley - W

Game 4: Friday, April 25 @ Mahoning Valley

Game 5: Sunday, April 27 @ St. Louis

Fairbanks Ice Dogs vs. Topeka Roadrunners

Game 1: Thursday, April 17 @ Topeka - L

Game 2: Friday, April 18 @ Topeka - W

Game 3: Thursday, April 24 @ Topeka - L

Game 4: Friday, April 25 @ Topeka

Game 5: Sunday, April 27 @ Topeka

Alumni Season Roundup: Ryan Nawrocki

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:29:57 -0500

The 2007-08 season for Ryan Nawrocki turned out to be shorter than his previous season, playing just 22 games. Ryan managed to notch 34 points in those 22 games with 12 goals and 22 assists. Ryan took advantage of 6 powerplay opportunities and ran away with one short-handed goal. Ryan also received the D1 Offensive Player-of-the-Week on October 13, 2007 after notching two goals for Kent State against Oswego State.

Matt Verdoni Finishes Second Regular Season Topping His First Season with Iowa State University

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:29:28 -0500

Matt Verdoni, a Defenseman topped his previous season of 18 points this year notching 22 points. Four of those points are from goals and the rest from assists. Matt also ended the season with 32 penalty minutes, down from his freshman year of 45.

Santee and Levine Head to Round Robin Tournament to Defent the Fred Page Cup

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 18:40:59 -0500

The defending Fred Page Cup champions are going back for another dance.

Last spring, the Pembroke Lumber Kings won the Central Junior A Hockey League championship and travelled to St. Jerome, Quebec to compete for the Fred Page Cup.

There, the Kings went 2-1 in the round-robin and eventually beat the host team, the St. Jerome Panthers, 5-3 in the final game to win the Eastern Canadian championship.

Waiting in the wings is a trip to the Royal Bank Cup, which is being hosted by the Cornwall Colts of the CJHL this year.

Wednesday, April 23, - vs. Weeks Crushers @ 8:00pm

Thursday, April 24, - MJAHL Champions @ 4:00pm

Friday, April 25, vs. LHJAAAQ Champtions @ 4:00pm

Santee and Levine Head Win Second Straight Championships, Moving Forward

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 22:33:35 -0500

The Kings are back in the CJHL finals for the second straight season taking on the Smiths Falls Bears. Fans were in for fast paced, exciting playoff hockey as the top seed Pembroke Lumber Kings tangled with the number two seed Smiths Falls Bears. Pembroke heads to the Fred Page Cup with the Weeks Crushers, other teams are not yet announced.

Eric Levine has backstopped Pembroke in 5 games during the playoffs, posting 4 wins and one overtime loss. Mike Santee has played all fourteen games during the plaoff season for Pembroke notching 8 goals and 2 assists for a total of 10 points. This win not only won them the CJHL Championship for the second year in a row, but put them at the number one seed in nationals! More information will be posted as it becomes available.

Guran Notches A Big First Goal For Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Sun, 13 Apr 2008 11:57:48 -0500

In a game in which the Wildcats “threw everything but the kitchen sink at us,” according to Proffitt, Stonacek teamed with Derek Bradish and Nick Guran to put the Ice Dogs on top early.

Guran used helpers from Bradish and Stonacek to beat Wichita Falls goalie Mike Jarboe 5:01 into the opening frame.

“We started out a little slow in the first period. Guran had a big goal for us, got us on the scoreboard at least,” Stonacek said. “Then we got rolling in the second.”

Santee Notches One, Pushes Lead to 4-1, Win 6-1

Sat, 12 Apr 2008 07:39:37 -0500

In game 4 of the CJHL Playoffs the Pembroke Lumberkings slaughtered the Smith Falls Bears by a score of 6-1. Prmbroke's first goal came at 9:25 of the first. Gervais evened the score for Smith Falls just two minutes later. Just five minutes later, Pembroke headed for a scoring binge, notching just 5 more goals through the duration of the first and second period. Mike Santee notched their 4th goal of the game, and insurance goal of which two more would follow from his teammates.

Alumni Season Roundup: Nick Fina

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 21:29:39 -0500

Nick Fina began playing for Robert Morris College in 2007 for the entire season. He skated hard in 30 games, notching 4 goals and 7 assists for 11 points. One of the goals and three of the assists came on the Power Play.

Cinquequergrani and Goodfellow Achieve Honors At Marian College

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 07:02:54 -0500

The 2006–07 Most Valuable Player, the player who showed leadership both on and off the ice, was James Goodfellow, a sophomore forward from Naperville, Ill. In 28 games, Goodfellow led the Sabres in goals (17) and assists (18), with three game-winning goals, five power play goals and two short-handed goals. He was named to the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association All-Academic Team with a 3.03 grade point average, and he was named to the All-MCHA team.

The 2007–08 team captains, chosen by players, coaches, alumni and Marian’s Director of Athletics, are Goodfellow and Jeff Wills, a sophomore defenseman from Davison, Mich. Wills had 3 goals and 10 assists in ’06–07. He was named to the MCHA All-Academic Team with a 3.44 GPA.

The Rookie of the Year was Nick Cinquegrani, a freshman forward from Rolling Meadows, Ill. Cinquegrani was Marian’s second leading scorer, with 14 points and 15 assists, including five power play goals, four short-handed goals and two game-winning goals. Cinquegrani was named to the MCHA All-Rookie Team and received honorable mention on the U.S. College Hockey Online All-Rookie West team.

Nick Cinquegrani (Rolling Meadows, IL) and Nick Henkemeyer (Prior Lake, MN) were also named to the All-Freshman Team. Cinquegrani was second on the team in scoring this season in MCHA play as he tallied 19 points (11G/8A). He also had two game-winners. Henkemeyer, a defender, recorded 13 points (2G/11A) for the Sabres this past season.

Bartus Aids in Sweep of Alpena Ice Diggers

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 06:20:00 -0500

Bartus turned aside 31 of 33 Alpena shots while limiting the Ice Diggers to just one power play goal on five opportunities. It was his third career playoff win in as many starts. He finished the series stopping 126 of 132 shots he faced. The series schedule against St. Louis will be announced.

Randy Guzior 2007-2008 Season Roundup: An Improvement Over Freshman Year

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:31:32 -0500

Had seven points over a six-game stretch from Oct. 26-Nov. 10...scored his first goal of the season in NU's 4-3 loss to Maine on Oct. 27...had a goal and two assists against No. 4 New Hampshire on Nov. 2...scored goals on consecutive nights, helping NU to a 4-2 win over Vermont and a 2-2 tie with Boston University Nov. 9-10 at Matthews Arena...posted an assist on Denis Chisholm's game-winner against Brown on Nov. 30 at Matthews Arena...scored the game-tying goal in the third period of a 1-1 draw against Union on Dec. 8...assisted on Jimmy Russo's game-tying third period goal in the Huskies' come-from-behind 4-3 win over Bowling Green at the Kohl Center on Dec. 28...scored a goal in the first period of NU's 2-1 win over Colgate at the Kohl Center on Dec. 29...scored a goal in the Huskies' 7-3 victory over Maine at Alfond Arena on Jan. 4...scored a goal in the Huskies' 2-2 draw with Vermont at Gutterson Fieldhouse on Jan. 18...scored the game-winning goal in the Huskies' 1-0 shutout of UMass at Matthews Arena on Feb. 1...assisted on Joe Vitale's goal in NU's 4-2 win over Merrimack at Lawler Arena on Feb. 8...scored in the Huskies' 5-4, overtime loss at UMass Lowell on Feb. 29.

Played for the Chicago Steel of the U.S. Hockey League in 2005-06...played in 53 games, registering 17 goals and 22 assists for 39 points...also posted 169 penalty minutes...named USHL Offensive Player of the Week on Nov. 21 after a four-goal week...played for the Chicago Force of the Central States Hockey League in 2004-05...finished second on team in goals (30), assists (34) and points (64) while posting a plus-65 rating...led the team with 102 penalty minutes in 48 games...played two seasons at the Culver Military Academy, posting totals of 16-16-32 in 2003-04 and 15-20-35 in 2002-03.

Meo and Bartus Head to Game 3 of First Round with Two Game Advantage

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 08:58:05 -0500

The play of goalie Garrett Bartus both nights was spectacular according to Mainhardt, noting that Robert Harrison and Johnny Meo continue to find ways to unnerve their opponents.

A goal and an assist by Meo in Saturday’s win and two goals (including the game winner in overtime on Friday) and an assist by Harrison in the two games paced the Phantoms offensively.

Bartus, who rejected 95 of 99 Alpena shots for the weekend, was arguably the unsung hero for Mahoning Valley.

Meo is a crowd favorite for a reason. He shows emotion on the ice and that is a big reason as to why the crowd connects with him. [Robert] Harrison is coming into his own physically at this juncture of the season while Garrett [Bartus] was absolutely outstanding both nights,” Mainhardt said.

“We’re confident right now, but not big-headed. With that confidence it allows you to do some things that you might not ordinarily try during the course of a game. As for Garrett [Bartus], he’s our last line of defense and his play all weekend kept us in the game,” Harrison said.

Of the Phantoms’ 36 wins this season, Bartus registered 23 (he was 23-9-3 overall in the regular season) while posting the first two wins in the playoffs as well.

Scott Dakan Finishes Wel-played Second Season for Penn State

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 22:49:58 -0500

Scott Dakan has finished his 2007-2008 season for the Penn State Lion Icers. Scott finished the season with 16 points, 13 from assists and 3 from burrying the puck in the net throughout the 36 games he played this season. Scott reduced his penalty minutes by 66%, totaling just 20 minutes, a much needed improvement from the previous season totalling 62 penalty minutes.

Bartus Sets Record for Mahoning Valley Phantoms, Leads Series 2-0

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 19:46:05 -0500

Another hero of the win on Friday night was Phantoms' netminder Garrett Bartus. Out-dueling his counterpart Nick Graves at the other end in a goaltending showcase, Bartus turned aside a team record 57 shots to earn a win in his first career playoff game.

Bartus again put on another goaltending display Saturday night, stopping 38 of 40 Alpena shots. On the weekend, Bartus turned aside over 96-percent of the shots he faced - tops among NAHL goaltenders this year in the playoffs.

"Bartus has been outstanding," Mainhardt said after the game Saturday. "He's made the big save when we needed him to. We were fortunate to put a couple more in tonight, and give him a little more breathing room. But he's playing playoff hockey - that's for sure."

Guran Gets 2nd Star Against Alexandria Blizzard

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:31:37 -0500

On Tuesday night, Force Alumnus Nick Guran notched two important goals for the Fairbanks Ice Dogs. His first goal of the night came early in the second period, to fight off the tying goal late in the first from Alexandrias Luke nesper. That would remain the lone goal in that period. Half way through the third period Nick got another goal extending Fairbanks lead by two goals. Nick was +2 for the game, receiving the second star.

Chris Cotsilis Finishes second, Better Season for Weber State

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 22:50:23 -0500

Cotsilis played for The Force back in 2006 before moving to Weber State University ACHA D1 Hockey program. In his freshman season, he clocked just 20 games, managing 7 goals and 2 assists. He notched one on a powerplay, and one a man down. Continuing his second season, he's clocked 30 games in the 2007-2008 season with 18 goals, three of which were on the powerplay. Junior year is coming up soon, the Chicago Force would like to wish him the best!

Bartus and Meo Lead Phantoms to 2-0 Series Advantage

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 08:52:33 -0500

Derek Graham notched a pair and Garrett Bartus turned aside 38 shots to lead the Mahoning Valley Phantoms to a 5-2 win in Game 2 on Saturday night in front of over 1000 fans at the Ice Zone. With the win, their third in a row over the Ice Diggers, the Phantoms took a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five North Division semi-final series.

A single-handed effort from Johnny Meo pushed the Phantoms lead to 4-1 late in the second period. Meo's second of the playoffs came after an Alpena miscue at their own blue line. Meo earned a breakaway after winning a race to the puck, deked Graves to the left, and slotted a backhand.

Justin Sgro Gets 1st Star of the Game For Central Oklahoma

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 06:53:15 -0500

Justing Sgro, the goaltender for University of Central Oklahoma receives first star honors for the game against Lindenwood for backstopping the Bronchos. Sgro stopped 41 of 43 shots.

Bartus Sets Team Record for Number of Saves, Turning Away 57 Shots From Alpena

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 06:43:07 -0500

Garrett Bartus turned aside a team record 57 shots to earn his first career playoff victory. Bartus' win included a number of close calls while killing off an Alpena powerplay in the sudden death session.

Monte Enters Senior Year, Chance to Set School Records

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 06:36:15 -0500

The Bison put themselves among the league’s elite, a spot they’re likely to remain at for at least next year because they didn’t have a single senior on the roster this season. Nichols set a school-record in wins – topping the 18 that it recorded two years ago, and the Bison also advanced to the ECAC Northeast championship game for the first time ever. The Bison started the season with a seven-game unbeaten streak and lost consecutive games just once. Junior Anthony Monte will enter next season with a chance to set the all-time record in points after leading the team with 22 goals and 29 assists.

Levine & Santee Stand Out In CJAHL for Pembroke Lumber Kings

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 10:02:14 -0500

Eric Levine and Mike Santee, both Chicago Force alumn, have come up big this year for the Pembroke Lumber Kings of the CJAHL. In the 2008 Playoffs, Eric has played 5 games, 303 minutes, 4 wins, 0 regulation losses, and one over-time loss. Eric posted a save percentage of 0.888 and GAA of 2.58.

Mike Santee, the Captain in Pembroke, notched 9 points in 9 games! The 9 points comprised of 7 goals and 2 assists. The big deal, he's tied the organization record for goals scored in a playoff series.

These two force alumni sure know how to make a BIG statement in the CJAHL! They are going to the Fred Page Cup finals this weekend against Smith Falls. Pembroke Lumber Kings are currently ranked 2nd in all of Canada for Junior A hockey, fronted only by the Humboldt Broncos in the SJHL.

Meo Gets Important Tying Goal, Bartus Geets Game Win, Sets Record

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 19:58:28 -0500

It took nearly 50 minutes to get things going, however, in the weekend opener. Trailing 2-1 midway through the second period, the Phantoms' Johnny Meo out-waited U.S. goalie Nick Maricic and buried a backhand to tie things up, before Miles Winter's second of the night, with just 7:10 left, won it.

Another record setter, Phantoms goaltender Garrett Bartus, made 24 saves on 26 shots for his 23rd win of the year - that season win total is second best in team history. The Phantoms finished off the season series with the U.S. owning a 7-4-1 record.

Meo Gets Game Tying Goal Againste US National Team, wins

Sat, 29 Mar 2008 18:00:22 -0500

Johnny Meo knotted the score at 2-2 for the Phantoms at the 7:20 mark of the final frame, while his team held a man advantage. Winter secured his second goal of the night, and what proved to be the game-winning tally, at 12:50 of the third period.

Bartus Earns Honorable Mention for Player of the Week

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 22:38:08 -0500

The North American Hockey League announced on Monday evening that Mahoning Valley Phantoms veteran goaltender Garrett Bartus earned an honorable mention for Player of the Week in the North division.

After winning the award twice (on October 1, 2007 and January 2, 2008), the honorable mention marks the third time Bartus has been recognized by the league.

So far this season, the St. Charles, Ill. native has accumulated a 22-9-3 record - including two shutouts - to help the Phantoms (34-18-4, 72 points) earn the second seed in the NAHL Playoffs. Bartus' 2.78 goals-against average is seventh best in the league, while his .912 save percentage is the fourth.

AJ Alfrey Named to the D1 American Collegiate Hockey Association All-Star Team

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 06:18:52 -0500

A.J. Alfrey, captain at University of Central Oklahoma, has been named to the D1 American Collegiate Hockey Association All-Star Team. He played for the Cleveland Lumberjacks and Chicago Force before committing to the Central Oklahoma Bronchos.

Mike Peota heads to nationals for Ohio

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 21:02:28 -0500

Junior defenseman Mike Peota, who is hoping to be back on the ice after missing the Central States Collegiate Hockey League Tournament with a knee injury, says the Bobcats’ success against the Cyclones is a result of their style of play.“We’re well-coached against them, and we play hard,” Peota said. “I guess it’s a combination of both.”

Bartus Steals the show for Mahoning Valley

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 21:01:59 -0500

Saturday's game featured a goaltending display at both ends of the ice. While Graves stopped 34 Phantoms shots, it was Mahoning Valley goaltender Garrett Bartus that stole the show. Bartus stopped 43 of 45 shots, including a few last-minute flurries to secure his 22nd win of the season.

Bartus and Meo Play Big For Mahoning Valley

Sun, 23 Mar 2008 07:57:51 -0500

“We’ll take this win. There was much more intensity by both teams and was an excellent preview tonight of our opening round play-off series with Alpena,” Phantom head coach Bob Mainhardt said.

“Alpena didn’t quit and it sure took everything that we had in order for us to hang on. Both goalies had an excellent night but the difference in the game was goalie Garrett Bartus.

The Phantoms got on the board first at 18:29 of the opening period when Johnny Meo’s all-out effort in the Alpena zone produced Mahoning Valley’s first goal of the game.

Garrett Bartus Sets His Sights On the U.S. National Team

Sat, 22 Mar 2008 22:31:02 -0500

With the help of 43 saves from goaltender Garrett Bartus, the Mahoning Valley Phantoms hung on to win a 3-2 decision over the Alpena Ice Diggers on Saturday night in front of nearly 900 fans at the Ice Zone.

Next up, the second place Phantoms will host the fourth place U.S. National Team (28-24-4, 60 points) on Friday night at 7:15 p.m. in the first of two games on the weekend. The games will be the final contests of the regular season for both teams.

John Meo Receives Honorable Mention in NAHL For Second Time this Season

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 19:04:30 -0600

Despite two losses at the hands of St. Louis last weekend, Mahoning Valley forward Johnny Meo, 19, tallied two goals and two assists. "Johnny was one of the bright spots on the weekend," said Phantoms coach-GM Bob Mainhardt. "We've had him switch roles and move into different positions and he always gives a 100 percent effort and puts everything he has into every game."

Anthony Monte and Jeff Bieber Named First Team All-ECAC Northeast

Sat, 15 Mar 2008 10:30:28 -0500

For the second consecutive year Nichols College sophomores Anthony Monte (Chicago, IL) and Jeff Bieber (Littleton, CO) earned All-ECAC Northeast honors as the duo were named to the First Team. Monte led Nichols and was tied for third in the conference with 16 goals in 15 conference match-ups.

Bartus Stands Tall In Goal For Mahoning Valley Once Again

Sat, 15 Mar 2008 10:23:48 -0500

The Stars chased Phantoms starter Garrett Bartus after Bonis' two goals 16:24 into the game.

The stars built a 3-0 lead [MV Goaltender: Bonis] before Mahoning Valley (31-17-4) came back to win 4-3 in a shootout.

Ryan Gervais Named ECAC Northeast Player of the Week

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 18:35:54 -0600

CAPE COD, Mass.- Nichols junior forward Ryan Gervais (Chicago, Ill.) has been named the ECAC Northeast Player of the Week after leading the Bison to two conference wins over the weekend.

After posting two assists in a 7-3 win over Johnson & Wales, he went on to record his second hat trick of the season along with one assist in a 9-2 win over Worcester State. Gervais moves back into first place (tie) in the conference in goal scoring with 15.

Nichols is currently 11-3-1 overall and 5-1 in ECAC Northeast Conference play, good for fourth place.

Bartus Shines For Phantoms In Win Against Team USA

Sun, 23 Dec 2007 23:21:55 -0600

When Kenny Ryan's slap shot registered at 13:54, a power play opportunity for Team USA, the game was knotted at 1-all heading to the second period of play.

It was the only shot of the night that Phantom goalie Garrett Bartus would unsuccessfully stop.

"Garrett [Bartus] was excellent once again when in goal. He stopped some potential game-changing opportunities so it's easy to see why he is getting a good look from not only college scouts, but NHL scouts as well," Mainhardt noted.

Four unanswered goals by Mahoning Valley (20-9-3, 41 points) in the second period, three coming in a span of 1:16 proved to be the difference for the Phantoms.

Eric Levine Backstops The Kings (Lead Series 3-0)

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 20:59:34 -0500

Eric Levine backstopped the Pembroke Lumber Kings to a 4-2 win, their third straight against Kanata in the series. Giving up just 2 goals. This win also puts Eric to third place in goaltending with a 2.00 GAA and .909 Save Percentage.

Guran’s talent shows through for Ice Dogs

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 20:29:43 -0500

When Fairbanks Ice Dogs coach Josh Hauge saw Nick Guran play in Chicago, he knew his hard work paid off.

The Ice Dogs coaches are used to scouting far and wide for talent — leaving no stone unturned, head coach Rob Proffitt calls it — but most of the time they find those stones have nothing underneath them.

But Guran was different. High-end skill, the Ice Dogs like to say, and Guran put it on display Tuesday night in the Ice Dogs’ 5-2 win over the Alexandria Blizzard at the Big Dipper Ice Arena.

Mike Santee Aids In A Heaping Serving of Goals for the Kings

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 20:28:59 -0500

Santee, A Force Alumn notches one goal in a game that seemingly was going to go on forever. The Kings end up winning 12-0.

Monte Makes Second Team All-ECAC Northeast

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:33:10 -0500

CAPE COD, MA- The 2008 ECAC Northeast All-Conference Team has been announced and Nichols’ juniors Anthony Monte (Chicago, IL) and Jeff Bieber (Littleton, CO) were named to the Second Team. This marks the third straight year the two have earned All-Conference accolades. The Bison will be playing in their first ECAC Northeast Championship game this Saturday at UMass-Dartmouth. The puck is set to drop at 4:30 p.m.

Bartus aids Phantoms, 4-3

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 23:41:16 -0500

Garrett Bartus made 31 saves, leading the Mahoning Valley Phantoms to a 4-3 victory over the Marquette Rangers in a North American Hockey League game Friday night.

Read the rest here

A Heavy Reliance on Goaltender, Eric Levine in CJHL Playoffs

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 23:34:30 -0500

Goaltending is also a key to success in any playoff win. Because backup goalie Eric Levine has proven himself down the stretch, Keefe is confident the team has two goalies that can be relied upon in the post-season, so he will take it game by game in deciding who gets the start.

Read the rest here.

Gervais and Monte Turn Bison Around

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 22:52:08 -0500

Izzi pointed to the play of his junior class, led by Cole Ruwe and Anthony Monte, as the main reason the Bison have enjoyed such an incredible turnaround.

Ruwe, Monte, and Ryan Gervais all played their junior hockey in the Central States Hockey League, and, ironically, Izzi’s recruitment of Monte and Gervais led to eventually landing Ruwe.

Monte and Gervais, Chicago natives and teammates on the Chicago Force junior B team, sent Izzi a game tape as part of the recruitment effort. The tape was of a game against Peoria, and Izzi kept noticing a Peoria defenseman taking control of the game. That defenseman turned out to be Ruwe. Izzi and his staff made a

Read the entire article here.

Nick Guran assists in go-ahead goal with Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 21:38:07 -0500

Defensmen Brock Shelgren started out the first period with a power-play marker to the right pocket of the net after a long volly with the puck with teammates Nick Guran and Alex McRae at 7:30.

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Want to play for the Chicago Force? Tryout Camp Info

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 00:45:39 -0600

2008 Open Tryout Camp
The Chicago Force will be conducting an "Open Tryout Camp" on August 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th, 2008 at the West Meadows Ice Arena in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. This camp is open to ALL players interested in playing Junior Hockey with birthdates of 1993, 1992, 1991, 1990, 1989 and 1988.

ALL players will report for tryouts as posted by team assignment on August 6th & 7th. Some goaltenders will be released at the conclusion of drills on August 7th. ALL non-goaltender players and remaining goaltenders will continue with the tryout as scheduled on Friday, August 8th. Team selections will be completed at the conclusion of Open Tryouts on Saturday, August 9th.

Team assignments for ALL players will be posted on the Chicago Force website www.chicagoforcehockey.com on August 4, 2008. Walkups will be accepted on Wednesday, August 6th.

Jerseys will be provided for all participants and lunch will be served to all players on Saturday, August 9th.

The cost for tryouts will be $150.00 for Goalies and $250.00 for all other skaters.

Tryout Times
Wednesday, August 6, 2008 - 6:00pm - 9:10pm All players per team assignments
Thursday, August 7, 2008 - 6:00pm - 9:10pm All players per team assignments
Friday, August 8, 2008 - 5:00pm - 9:30pm All Players
Saturday, August 9, 2008 - 8:00am - 5:30pm All Players

Please print out a 2008 Open Tryout Camp Registration Form from the link below and mail completed forms with a check made out to CHICAGO FORCE HOCKEY or forms with credit card information can be faxed to 847-662-4462
Attention: Dick Glass

Dick Glass
Chicago Force Hockey
1655 Nations Drive
Gurnee, IL 60031

Any questions please contact Dick Glass at 847-662-4600.

Payment by Check, Discover, MasterCard or Visa will be accepted at sign in each day. Players are requested to be at sign in at least 1 hour before scheduled session.

Chicago Force 2008 Summer Skate Info

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 00:43:58 -0600

2008 Summer Skate
The Chicago Force will be holding summer skates every * Wednesday Night from ** 6:30pm to 8:00pm beginning May 7, 2008 and ending on July 30, 2008 for a total of 12 sessions. All sessions will take place at the West Meadows Ice Arena in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.

* No Session on 7/2/08
** 8:40pm - 10:10pm on 7/23/08

These sessions will be open to all "serious" hockey players with aspirations of playing junior hockey with birthdates of 1993, 1992, 1991, 1990, 1989 and 1988. The fee for these summer skates is $200.00 if paid in advance for all 12 sessions or $20.00 per session if paid for at the door.
All participants are required to bring a "dark" and a "light" jersey to each session to accomodate the scrimmages that will be held each week.
Please print out a 2008 Summer Skate Registration Form from the link below and mail completed forms with a check made out to Chicago Force Hockey or forms with credit card information can be faxed to 847-662-4462

Attention: Dick Glass
Dick Glass
Chicago Force Hockey
1655 Nations Drive
Gurnee, IL 60031

Any questions please contact Dick Glass at 847-662-4600

http://www.chicagoforcehockey.com/files/2008-summer-skate.pdf

2008 Open House

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 00:41:15 -0600

On March 8, 20088 The Chicago Force announced the following information for the 2008 Open House.

Please join us for our 6th Annual Open House to be held at the Home of the Chicago Force Junior A Hockey Club, West Meadows Ice Arena, 3939 Winnetka Avenue in Rolling Meadows, IL on Monday, May 5, 2008 at 7:00pm. Come meet our Coaches and Management, take a tour of our facilities, talk to Force Alumni and find out how you can become part of the Chicago area's most exciting Junior Hockey team as a player, sponsor or fan. Refreshments will be served and admission is FREE.

The Last Game of the Season

Sun, 09 Mar 2008 00:11:43 -0600

Dubuque Iowa

This evening the Chicago Force ended their season putting up great fight against the Dubuque Thunderbirds, who only had 3 losses this season. Falling by a score of 3-5, David Nagel, James Albrecht and Louis Educate each managed to put a goal past the Dubuque goaltender, Sheib. Those goals came quick in the first and second periods. Through the first period, Dubuque buried just one goal, in the second they managed to get 2. Dubuque dominated the third period putting two more goals past Rabin.

Congrats to the Chicago Force on a well-played season. We look forward to many more, and good luck to all the Seniors of the team with any hockey venture you choose.

Force Alumnus, Garrett Bartus, Named NAHL North Player of the Week

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:57:00 -0500

In only his third NAHL start, Mahoning Valley goaltender Garrett Bartus made all 44 saves as the Phantoms blanked the U.S.Under-18 Team 1-0 on Saturday, September 29, 2007. The St. Charles, IL native, who turns 18 in October, improved to 2-0 on the season with a 2.00 Goals Against Average and a .939 Save Percentage. “It’s really good to see Garrett play with the confidence that he did,” said Phantoms Coach-GM Bob Mainhardt. “He was outstanding and there is no doubt that he was the biggest reason we won that game."

Bartus among several former CSHL Goaltenders leading the NAHL

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 19:56:33 -0500

Several former CSHL goaltenders have risen to the top of the NAHL statistics. Leading the way are #1 Robby Moss (St. Louis) and #2 Garrett Bartus (Chicago) with a 1.60 GAA and 2.16 GAA respectively. When looking at Save Percentage, there is no change at the top with Moss and Bartus still #1 and #2. However, Scott Zacharias (Columbus) is 6th overall, despite his team's struggles over the first month of the season.

Force Alumnus, Johnny Meo, Named NAHL North Player of the Week

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 19:56:00 -0600

Mahoning Valley forward Johnny Meo (Chicago) struck for two goals and four assists last week as the Phantoms fashioned a 2-0-1 record. On October 30th, the 18-year-old recorded a goal and three assists in a 10-2 win over the U.S.Under-17 Team. On November 2nd, the Vernon Hills, IL native scored a goal and an assist as the Phantoms skated to a 5-3 win over division-leading St. Louis. Meo was also a +2 for the week. "Johnny works real hard" said Phantoms Assistant Coach Curtis Carr. "He's been a sparkplug for us all season. He plays physical and things are starting to pay off for him. We are pretty happy with his performance."

Chicago Force NCAA Division III Alumni News

Mon, 12 Nov 2007 19:54:51 -0600

With the NCAA Division I Season in full swing, it's time to take a quick look at the Division III Season that is now several weeks old. In scoring, there are several former CSHL'ers on the board including Anthony Monte (Chicago) tied for 18th overall with 9 points in 4 games for Nichols College. Nichols recently named their Captain and two Alternate Captains, all of which spent time in the CSHL. Cole Ruwe (Peoria) was named Captain with Anthony Monte and Ryan Gervais (Chicago) as Alternate Captains. Nick Cinquegrani (Chicago) and James Goodfellow (Chicago) both have 7 points in 4 games with Nichols College and Marian, respectively. James Goodfellow was also named one of the Marian Captains.

Force Alumnus, Scott Pederson, Named NAHL Central Player of the Week

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 19:54:25 -0600

Southern Minnesota goaltender Scott Pederson (Chicago) backstopped the Express to a pair of wins over Springfield last weekend, turning aside 98 of 100 shots. On November 16th, the 19-year-old made 53 saves in a 2-1 overtime triumph. The following night, the Lake Villa, Illinois native stopped 45 shots in another 2-1 victory over the Jr. Blues. "Scott stepped up and carried our team on his back,” said Express Coach-GM Matt Romaniski. “He’s been improving every week and the way he played last weekend, I see him only getting better.”

Mike Santee & Eric Levine Finding Success for Pembroke in Canadian Jr. A

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 19:53:10 -0600

The Pembroke Lumber Kings and the Brockville Braves of the Central Ontario Junior A Hockey League have established themselves as the two teams to beat and they are doing it with the help of two Force alumni.
The teams are tied for first place in their division with 38 points in 25 and 26 games respectively. Mike Santee (Chicago) is 7th in Pembroke team scoring with 16 points in 25 games and recently acquired Eric Levine (Chicago) has seen game action for Pembroke with a 1-1 record and a .936 Save Percentage.

2nd Annual Chicago Force Alumni Game at West Meadows Ice Arena

Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:51:34 -0600

Thanks to everyone who supports the Force!

The Chicago Force Announces Free Audio Archive of Away Games

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 21:00:38 -0600

Please click this link to view the archive. We will be posting previous games as they become available, and future games, within 24 hours of the away game's end.

Nick Guran receives Honorable Mention NAHL South Player of the Week

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 20:00:49 -0600

Nearing the end of the 2007-2008 season, Nick Guran moved up from the Chicago Force to play in the NAHL for the Fairbanks Ice Dogs. As of January 25, 2008 Guran has played just 3 games and secured 4 points with 1 goal and 3 assists.

Alumnus Garrett Bartus Named NAHL North Player of the Week AGAIN!

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 19:47:49 -0600

Receiving player of the week for the 2nd time this season, Mahoning Valley goaltender Garrett Bartus (Chicago) backstopped the Phantoms to three wins at the Phantoms Showcase last weekend, stopping 77 of 80 shots. On Friday, the 18-year-old made 23 saves in a 4-1 victory over Marquette. The next night, Garrett turned away 28 shots as Mahoning Valley downed Traverse City by a score of 3-2. On Monday, Bartus made all 26 saves in a 2-0 shutout of the North Stars. Curtis Carr, Phantoms Assistant Coach, said "Garrett gave us the opportunity to win. He made the saves he was supposed to and some he wasn't necessarily supposed to and when we needed him, he came up big."

The Chicago Force Proudly Announce FREE RSS Feeds

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 00:46:09 -0600

The Chicago Force proudly announce quick access to news feeds via an RSS reader.
You will want to copy the text between the quotes "http://www.chicagoforcehockey.com/news.xml" into your favorite news reader. You can also type it into your blackberry, palm device, or iPhone to achieve the same results.

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