Friday, January 04, 2008

Chynoweth Awaits Word / Broncos Hit the Outdoor Rink

We should know later today just how many games WHL Vice President of Hockey Rick Doerksen thinks Dean Chynoweth should take off following Wednesday's water bottle fiasco at the I-plex.

If you can remember three years ago in a similar incident, Chynoweth was given a two-game suspension for launching water bottles in the direction of referee Ryan Thompson back on January 28th of 2005 when things got out of hand with the Kootenay Ice.

Wednesday's water bottle peppering of linseman Kelly Balaberda may bring a stiffer penalty.

It's interesting to note, back on that January night three years ago, Balaberda was also the linesman....

- Ryan Switzer and myself did our first international hockey broadcast last night as the Eagle 94.1 FM carried the the Diamond Energy "AAA" Wildcats vs the Czech Republic U-18 exhibition game. We had some fun with it to say the least.

How 'bout the Czech coaching staff? Safe to say they do things a little differently over there than let's say our minor hockey system.

Apparently one of the coaches finished off the rest of a bottle of Vodka during the gameday skate at the I-plex. He could later be seen with a giant beer and cigarette in the lobby around noon. Before last night's game he offered a toast of Jim Beam to the Wildcats staff.


While we look at this as being odd, it's pretty much common place over there.

- Speaking of hockey broadcasts I don't think you'll find more hockey on any Saskatchewan radio station than the Eagle 94.1 FM here in Swifty. With all the World Junior games, NHL Playoffs, 15-20 "AAA" midget games and then the complete Broncos schedule it's a handful.


- I've been told the Grey Cup is coming to the I-plex January 25th when the Kelowna Rockets make a visit. Should be a fun night with our city's die hard Rider fan base. Hopefully they all come out for a glimpse. Not sure which Riders will accompany it as of yet.


- Trade deadline thoughts have consumed every Bronco fan I run into. Each one has an opinion on what's needed. Some say load up, others say build for next year. It'll be an interesting week ahead. At least Dean Chynoweth will have some time to focus on the deadline being that he won't be behind the bench for the next stretch of games....

- The Broncos took their practice outdoors yesterday. They had a relaxed game of shinny out at the Highlands outdoor rink. Not sure who gets the photo credit here... these were passed my way. They sure would look good on the Broncos website too....



Dale Wiese's celebrates his 20th of the season


This is defenseman Michael Wilson in the goalie gear


Wilson leads the rush... what else is new?


Levi Nelson and Zack Smith in the opening face-off


Erik Felde looks to dish out of the corner


Cody Eakin (left), Matt Tassone (right)


Zack Smith (left), Spencer McAvoy (right)

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