Country Crooner Marries Hockey Hunk [Video]

Country music recording artist Carrie Underwood is tying the knot with an Ottawa Senators alternate captain, her publicist confirmed earlier this week.

Gallant's New Look

A Knoxville netminder is getting a new look...

Bears in the Hall

The Tennessee sports hall of fame will honor the Ice Bears for its accomplishments as the state's 2009 professional team of the year.

Ice Notes

The Ice Bears get the holiday off work - the boys don't play again until the day after Christmas in Fayetteville against the Fireantz.

Voice of the Ice Bears in the News

And a feather in Mark Atnip's cap this past week, the voice of the Ice Bear's is featured prominently in the December 10th Metro Pulse cover story.

Jeremy Roenick on the Hardwood?

Former NHLer and US Olympic silver medalist Jeremy Roenick made a lot of stops in his 20 year hockey career, but this week was his first time in Knoxville.

Ice Notes

This weeks updates on what's happening around the rink.

Ice Notes

The Ice Bears with some bumps and bruises going into last weekend's pair of home games.

Tomas Vokoun Takes a Hit [Video]

Florida Panthers goalie Tomas Vokoun is slashed in the head by teamate Keith Ballard after a goal the other night in Atlanta.

And The Wiener Is...

It's a one-of-a-kind event in East Tennessee, wiener dog races, held right on the ice surface during intermission.

Upcoming Promotions

A deal 2 good 2 be true!

Ice Notes

The largest home crowd this season turned out for the Ice Bears Thanksgiving holiday weekend game.

Over the Top Celebration [Video]

A Swedish player celebrates his first goal of the season, and winds up in the stands.

Stick Handling [Video]

Here's a post-game celebration that turns ugly.

Off to the Races!

One of the Ice Bears largest crowds of the season is expected Friday night at the Civic Coliseum. Why? - it's a dog-gone entertaining holiday weekend!

Ice Notes

Additions, subtractions and scoring streaks, oh my!

The Hockey LoeDown is back in action for another season

The Hockey LoeDown is back for its third season.

Two More Bears on Board

With training camp only one week away, the Ice Bears coaching staff is working diligently on building the best team possible.

Ice Bears sign Vitek

Retirement, call-ups and injuries are a major part of professional sports. Every athlete is going to have to broach these subjects at one time or another throughout their careers, and the teams that they play for have to be prepared to fill these vacant positions.

Knoxville Ice Bears Name Assistant Coach

Former Ice Bear back behind the bench.
The Knoxville Ice Bears announced today that K.J. Voorhees, a former player, is the new assistant coach. The organization looked to fill this position after Marc Rodgers was promoted from assistant to head coach on June 23. Rodgers had been the assistant for three seasons. Voorhees will begin working with Rodgers immediately to prepare for training camp, which is set to begin on Sunday, October 11.



“K.J. will be a great addition to my coaching staff and also a great addition inside our dressing room, some players already know him, so being around us should be a smooth transition. He already knows that I am only looking to win and seems extremely excited for the opportunity to help this organization achieves its goals. He will be a second set of eyes for me, not only behind the bench, but also when I break down video. Every team in this league is gunning for us, and the league will be much better than last year. So having K.J. will be a benefit to our organization,” commented Coach Rodgers.



K.J. Voorhees is a native of Lake Stevens, Washington, but has been a resident of Knoxville for several years. In fact, he came to Knoxville in 2002 to play for the Ice Bears. The 5-10, 190 pound right wing played 223 games for the Ice Bears from 2002 until 2006, during which time the team transitioned through two leagues before finally remaining a part of the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) beginning in 2004. Voorhees scored 162 goals, had 165 assists and only 155 penalty minutes as an Ice Bear. His contribution on the ice helped the team win their first SPHL championship during the 2005-2006 season.



Voorhees’ hockey career began in 1995 with the Omaha Lancers of the United States Hockey League (USHL). He spent the next four years playing for Colorado College in Colorado Springs. His solid collegiate career helped him obtain a position on an international team in Sweden from 2000 until 2002. After that, he spent one year with the New Mexico Scorpions (Western Professional Hockey League) and one year with the Tacoma Sabercats (West Coast Hockey League).



Since retiring, Voorhees has been an instrumental part of the developing youth hockey in Knoxville. He currently works as the Hockey Director at Cool Sports home of the Icearium. He is responsible for organizing the Knoxville Area Hockey Association (KAHA), which teaches kids from age 4 to 18 the sport of hockey. Voorhees has also been involved with the Thunder Hockey team for the past two years. This is an elite travel hockey program. Last season he was the assistant coach of the 94 Thunder team, which was coached by former Ice Bear Josh Akright, and this year he is the assistant coach of the 95 thunder team, which coached by former NHL player Jim McKenzie.



K.J. stated, “I am very excited to join the coaching staff of the Knoxville Ice Bears. The Ice Bears have established themselves as a perennial powerhouse in the SPHL and I look forward helping Coach Rodgers continue that tradition.

Ice Bears Welcome New Faces to the Ice

As the Knoxville Ice Bears prepare for the 2009-10 season, they will be evaluating some new players and re-evaluating some familiar faces.


Head coach Marc Rodgers has extended try-out agreements to Glenn Cacaro, Dan Earls, Adam Larsen and Chris Hollens. These players will participate in training camp, which begins Monday, October 12, in an attempt to be awarded a spot on the Ice Bears final roster. The Southern Professional Hockey League allows each team to bring 30 players to training camp before submitting an 18-man roster.



Ice Bears fans may remember Glenn Cacaro. The 6-foot, 190 pound defenseman was signed to a three-game try-out last season, and then Knoxville signed him for an additional two games. Prior to coming to the Ice Bears, Cacaro played for Nichols College in Dudley, Massachusetts from 2005-2009. During that time, he played 110 games, scored six goals, had 17 assists and 243 penalty minutes. Cacaro is the first person born in South Dakota to play hockey in the professional ranks.



Goalie Dan Earles attended the Knoxville Ice Bears training last season, and made the final goalie cut very difficult for the coaching staff. Even though the Ice Bears decided to go with two seasoned players, Kirk Irving and Andrew Gallant, instead of a rookie, Earles is talented. While playing at North Country Community College, he was ranked at the top of the NJCAA in goaltending statistics. He also had a stellar career in the junior hockey when he played for the Penetang Kings.



“I have seen Cacaro and Earles in action. I was pleased with Glenn’s performance when he was with us at the end of last season. I expect him to exceed that level of play. And, if he does, he will make a great addition to our defensive unit. Earles showed maturity, poise and consistency in the net during the 2008 training camp. With Kirk Irving retiring, Earles may be a great fit for our second goalie spot,” commented Rodgers.



Adam Larsen is a native of Port Moody, British Columbia. The 6-1, 210 pound forward played for the Selkirk Steelers in the Metropolitan Junior Hockey League (MJHL) last season. During 54 games, Larsen scored 13 goals, had seven assists and 94 penalty minutes. Reportedly, Larsen is a good skater, a hard hitter, and will chip in goals. Adam is a competitor, willing to do mix it up when needed. He will bring a physical component to our team and I believe opponents will have to keep an eye on him every time he is on the ice.



Center Chris Hollens has played hockey at several different levels since 2000, including the Ontario Provincial Junior Hockey League, Maritime Junior A Hockey League, Atlantic Coast Hockey League, United Hockey League, and most recently with Portage College of the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference. While at Portage, he played 26 games, scored five goals and had seven assists and 18 penalty minutes.



Marc Rodgers said, “Even though Larsen and Hollens will both have to prove themselves during training camp, I am looking for them to bring more physicality to the team. This is especially true of Adam. Our team is going to have to play intense hockey the entire season to compete with the new teams and the new talent that they will bring to the Southern Professional Hockey League.”

Ice Bears Choose Vets for Upcoming season

With seven players reaching veteran status by the end of last season and only three vets allowed on the roster, the Ice Bears had some some tough decisions


Knoxville Ice Bears head coach Marc Rodgers announced that the team has filled the veteran positions with returning players. The SPHL allows three veteran players, ones that have played more than 224 professional games, per team. Captain Kevin Swider, defensemen Kevin Harris and Chris Brannen will fill those positions for Knoxville.



“Choosing the veteran players was a difficult decision because we had several talented players to choose from. So many players want to play for a championship team, so as a head coach, I have to evaluate several factors when filling the vet spots. It is a crucial decision for the success of the team. As a result, Mike Carter, Justin Keller and J.J. Wrobel will not be returning,” commented Coach Rodgers. All three players bring experience and leadership within our organization. They not only help us on the ice but also off the ice in teaching young players how to be real professionals. The city of Knoxville and the Ice Bears are extremely privileged to have these players wanting to stay in Knoxville as they could all play at higher levels. This says a great deal about their character. And that is why I wanted them by my side in our attempt to defend our Championships.



Kevin Swider is in his eighth season with the Knoxville Ice Bears, during which time he has been a dominant force on and off the ice. The young talent from Livonia, Michigan started his professional hockey career in the United Hockey League (UHL), where he played for two seasons. Swider’s first experience in Knoxville was in 2002, when the team was part of the Atlantic Coast Hockey League (ACHL). The next couple of seasons, Swider played for various teams in the World Hockey League Association 2 (WHA2), ECHL, and Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL), including the Knoxville Ice Bears. Swider was named team captain of the Ice Bears in 2006. During his time in Knoxville, he has played in 301 games, scored 193 goals and accumulated 348 assists. Swider has led the SPHL in scoring since the league’s inception five seasons ago, and he has been a part of all three championship teams. Kevin is a winner, and is determination makes other people around him way better. That is very hard to do at any level. I expect great things from Kevin again this season as he does also.



Defenseman Kevin Harris will be starting his third season in Knoxville. The 5-11, 210 pound Manitoba native has helped strengthen the Ice Bears defense with an impressive plus/minus average of +48. In 127 games he has scored 22 goals and had 68 assists. Before coming to Knoxville, Harris had an extensive playing career in several other leagues, including the Central Hockey League, International Hockey league and ECHL. Kevin and his wife have falling in love with Knoxville and the Ice Bears organization. Kevin has showed that he could be an elite player at this level and I will expect nothing less from him this upcoming season.



The third veteran spot will be filled by defenseman Chris Brannen, who came to the Ice Bears partway through last season. Until that time, his professional hockey career was based in the Central Hockey League. He played for the Topeka Tarantulas, Odessa Jackalopes and Rocky Mountain Rage. Brannen then came to Knoxville and played 50 games. During that time, he scored three goals, had ten assists and ended the season with a plus/minus of +17.



“I am happy to be returning to Knoxville. I am not one of the most flashy or physical players on the ice. It’s just not my style. My strength is in anticipating the opponent’s moves, and making our defense stronger. In the past, Knoxville has been typically known for its offensive prowess, but their defense has often needed to be further developed. That’s where I fit into the puzzle,” said Brannen.

Chris is not only a great player on the ice, he is a great leader in the dressing. The level of play he brings to this league and this team blows me away. When the game is on the line he will do whatever it takes to win and again that just shows me what kind of character player Chris is for us.

Veteran Returns

Five time winner of the SPHL Scoring title will return to Knoxville.



The Knoxville Ice Bears announced today that Kevin Swider will be returning to the team for the 2009-10 season, after some speculation that he may retire. Swider has been a driving force behind the success of the Ice Bears.

Swider is in his 8th season with the Knoxville Ice Bears, during which time he has been a positive force on and off the ice. The young talent from Livonia, Michigan started his professional hockey career in the United Hockey League (UHL), where he played for two seasons. Swider’s first experience in Knoxville was in 2002, when the team was part of the Atlantic Coast Hockey League (ACHL). The next couple of seasons, Swider played for various teams in the World Hockey League Association 2 (WHA2), ECHL, and Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL), including the Knoxville Ice Bears.

Swider was named team captain of the Ice Bears in 2006. During his time in Knoxville, he has played in 301 games, scored 193 goals and accumulated 348 assists. Swider has led the SPHL in scoring since the league’s inception five seasons ago, and he has been a part of all three championship teams.

Kevin Swider has received many accolades commending his play on the ice. THE HOCKEY NEWS 60th Anniversary Issue listed top hockey players over the years. Even in the SPHL’s short existence, Kevin Swider was listed as the #1 player in the league.

Swider has also been recognized as the Sher-Wood Player of the Month for November 2007, March 2008 and December 2008 in the SPHL, and he was the recipient of the Sher-Wood Player of the Week on October 29, 2008.

“We are very fortunate to have Kevin be a constant on our team. It is rare that players stay with one team for any length of time in developmental leagues, especially someone as talented as he is. However, a large part of that is due to this great city and our fans. Kevin is a champion, he not only is great on the ice but also off the ice with players and fans. He is the first step for this organization in achieving our goal for this upcoming season, and that is to make it a three-peat,” remarked head coach Marc Rodgers.

New Knoxville Bench Boss

The Knoxville Ice Bears pick a winner as their new Head Coach.

The search for a new head coach has ended for the Knoxville Ice Bears. The search began after former head coach Scott Hillman resigned on May 31 to take a head coaching job with a Central Hockey League expansion team in Independence, Missouri. The Knoxville Ice Bears have named Marc Rodgers as their new bench boss. The decision to promote Rodgers from assistant coach to head coach was made this week, and will be effectively immediately.

“I am grateful to have the opportunity to take over as head coach of the Knoxville Ice Bears. It has been a rewarding experience to be a part of hockey in Knoxville in several different capacities, and I am looking forward to the challenges that this role is going to present,” said Marc Rodgers.

Marc Rodgers has an extensive hockey career that includes several leagues, such as the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), ECHL, International Hockey League (IHL), American Hockey League (AHL), Deutsche Eishockey Liga (a German ice hockey league referred to as DEL), National Hockey League (NHL) and the United Hockey League (UHL). He began his playing career as a right wing/center in Granby, Quebec for the Granby Bisons of the QMJHL. Rodgers was there for 3 years and Verdun, Quebec for 1 year, where he won the league championship. He played 11 years of pro hockey, winning two championships with the Utah Grizzlies of the IHL and also for Chicago Wolves in the IHL. Rodgers had a brief stint in the NHL with the Detroit Red Wings in 1999-2000 playing 21 games.

He is no stranger to Knoxville. Rodgers was a member of the Knoxville Cherokees (ECHL) during the 1993-94 season, and then came back to play with the Knoxville Speed (UHL) in 2001. He became the assistant coach of the Knoxville Ice Bears in 2006.

“Marc Rodgers has been a common denominator for the Ice Bears during the past three seasons. Much of what he has contributed has been behind-the-scenes, and our fans may not realize what a big role he has played in the success of this organization. It was a difficult decision because we had so many qualified candidates, but I feel that Marc can not only be successful, but make our team better. I am very excited to name him as the fourth head coach of the Knoxville Ice Bears,” commented president and general manager Mike Murray.

Marc is a native of Shawville, Quebec and lives full time with his family of four in Knoxville in the Gibbs community. His wife, Sheridee is from Knoxville and his two children are Dalton (10 years old), born in Adirondack NY, and Garrett (8 years old), born in Knoxville.

Rodgers was one of 36 applicants for the Ice Bears vacant head coaching job. In addition to his assistant coaching duties with the Ice Bears the past 3 years, he's worked full time as a firefighter with Knox County's Rural Metro Fire Department.

Coach Hillman Leaves The Ice Bears

Coach Scott Hillman parts ways with the SPHL Champion Ice Bears to head to the CHL.

The Knoxville Ice Bears announced that head coach Scott Hillman has resigned to become the head coach of a Central Hockey League (CHL) expansion team in Independence, Missouri. Hillman accomplished an amazing feat since coming onboard with the Knoxville Ice Bears. In his first two seasons as a professional bench boss he led the Ice Bears to both the President’s Cup and Coffey Trophy Championships two years in a row. This is a first in the history of the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL).
A native of LaSalle, Ontario, Canada, Hillman obtained his undergraduate degree at the University of Windsor, where he was the captain of the Lancers, an All-Canadian and the highest scoring defenseman in the nation (CIS). Hillman went on to have a successful career in the ECHL, Germany, the WPHL and concluded his career with 8 straight seasons with the Odessa Jackalopes of the CHL. He is the Jackalopes all time leader in games played with 446, second in all time assists with 260 and second in all time scoring with 326 points. He was the player/assistant coach for three years under the direction of Don McKee. During that time, he earned many other accolades, including 3-time team captain of the CHL All-Star team and the CHL Man of the Year for Community Involvement.

Hillman came to Knoxville in September 2007 to replace Jim Bermingham. During the 2007-2008 season, the Knoxville Ice Bears compiled a regular season record of 32-16-4 and a playoff record of 6-2. The team swept the Jacksonville Barracudas to win the league championship. The following year, Hillman’s team ended the regular season with a record of 35-16-9 and a playoff record of 7-5. The Ice Bears defeated the Fayetteville FireAntz to defend their title. Since 2007, nine Ice Bears players have been called up to higher leagues.
Hillman said, “I want to thank Mike Murray and the entire ownership group and the entire staff of the Knoxville Ice Bears for the incredible support. They not only supported me during my two seasons as the Ice Bears head coach, but also through this new opportunity as I move on to a higher level of hockey. They want the Knoxville Ice Bears organization to be successful, but more importantly, they care about every individual involved. I also want to thank the booster club, the season ticket holders and all of the of the amazing Ice Bears fans. Without you, Knoxville would not be the premier place to play hockey in the SPHL.”
“When I brought him here two years ago, I knew he was going to be a great fit. He not only produced results on the ice, but Scott represented our organization well in the community. We are sad to see Scott leave Knoxville and the Knoxville Ice Bears organization; however, we wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors,” commented president and general manager Mike Murray.
The Ice Bears will immediately begin an official search to fill the head coach position.
The announcement was made at a press conference at The Knoxville Civic Auditorium. For more information visit www.knoxvilleicebears.com.

SPHL Summer League Meeting

Representatives from all seven teams met in Biloxi, MS for the annual Southern Professional Hockey League summer league meeting.
SPHL Commissioner, Jim Combs has announced 3 additional teams to their line-up for the 2009-2010 season. Pensacola, Lafayette and Biloxi will be joining veteran teams Columbus, Huntsville, Fayetteville and Knoxville to begin regular season in late October 2009. Representatives from Twin Cities were also present to request a one year suspension and give an encouraging update on their current search for a new location.



Newly appointed Chairman of the Board, Mike Murray responds to this years meeting with enthusiasm for the future of the league. “With the addition of the likes of Tim Kerr, Brent Sepergia, Steffon Walby and Todd Gordon, I see our league developing into a much higher standard of play. All teams returning teams will need to work harder and play stronger to compete with these seasoned veterans.”



Newly appointed Vice Chairman, Tim Kerr also leaves the meeting encouraged about his future in the SPHL. “The SPHL has a proven record for success within their markets. I’m looking forward to developing a new team and our fans obviously approve by already getting us half way to our goal of selling over 600 season tickets to date.”



Commissioner Jim Combs says, “The SPHL is a good mix in location, hockey experience and professionalism. The SPHL is a strong, viable league within the Southeast and opens the door for the opportunity for others within our footprint to consider.”



In addition to regular business discussions, the following items were also voted and approved.



- The regular season schedule will stay at 56 games and will be released after July 20th.

- Play off schedule will consist of 6 teams making it to the finals. Play-off schedule will be decided during the winter meetings.

- The league will continue testing a four-official system throughout the year and into the play-offs.

- The formation of a “Competition Committee” to routinely discuss rules of play through out the year.



Wrapping up the meeting were representatives from OT Sport, B2TV and Pointstreak.



For more information visit www.thesphl.com.

New SPHL team in Louisiana

The Ice Bears have another new opponent for next season.


From TheSPHL.com:

LAFAYETTE, LA – Danny Smith has announced today that their application to play in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) has been approved by the SPHL Board of Governors and that the team will begin play in October 2009.

The team will begin selling season tickets and unvail their new colors and logo on the website www.icegatorshockey.com on June 1st

For Smith and new coach Ron Handy, though, those are just details. They're too busy flying on cloud nine now that their persistent efforts to bring hockey back to Lafayette were rewarded.
"My mom won tickets on the radio for the very first IceGator game,'' said Smith, a New Iberia native and local businessman. "I went to the first game, got hooked and never missed one after that.''
Smith jokingly admitted that he went to the first game to see how they kept the ice from melting. Over 14 years later, he was being announced as the team's new owner.

The Southern Professional Hockey League currently has teams in Biloxi, Columbus, Fayetteville, Huntsville and Knoxville. Additionally, the Twin Cities Cyclones are exploring relocation opportunities and the SPHL is currently negotiating affiliation agreements with two additional markets to begin play during the 2009-10 season.

SPHL Commissioner Jim Combs states “Our league’s Board of Governors would like to welcome Danny smith and the Icegators to the league” He adds, “The Icegators have a tradition of being a tough winning organization and they are going to make winning a championship a priority.”

New SPHL Team

It looks like the Champion Ice Bears will have some new competition coming from the Mississippi Gulf.


From TheSPHL.com:

Jim Combs, Commissioner of the Southern Professional Hockey League announced tonight that the Southern Professional Hockey League’s Board of Governors has received an application from an ownership group to operate an SPHL team in Biloxi Mississippi for the 2009-10 season.

The ownership group has secured a lease from the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and is expected to receive final SPHL membership approval shortly pending formal review of their application by the Board of Governors.

Combs stated that “our league’s Governors are delighted about the opportunity to bring the SPHL’s brand of professional hockey to the Mississippi Gulf Coast.” The new Biloxi team will compete against returning SPHL members Fayetteville, Knoxville, Columbus and Huntsville.

Additionally, Combs advised that the SPHL is in active discussions with prospective ownership in Pensacola, Florida and other cities and expects to provide information on additional expansion over the next few weeks.

Combs stated that “while there is still work to be accomplished the Board of Governors is committed to expansion within our league’s geographical footprint within a time frame that allows new members the lead time to prepare for the
2009-10 season.

Former Ice Bear Passes Away

The Knoxville Ice Bears organization is sad to inform you that one of our former players, Caleb Moffat, passed away in his sleep on the morning of Thursday, April 23. Caleb was at his mother’s in Atlanta, GA. An autopsy will be performed. Unfortunately, we do not know anymore information at this time. However, Caleb will be missed by so many that knew him. He was a tough guy on the ice, but a charismatic person off the ice. Even though he only played in Knoxville for a short time, he made an impact on many of us. We send our condolences to his family, and we will pass along any new information that we receive.

Caleb's service will be on Saturday, May 2nd at 1:00 pm. The address is:
777 Robinson Road, Peachtree City, Ga 30269.

View Larger Map

Caleb Chase Moffat, passed suddenly at home in Peachtree City, Georgia. Caleb is the beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew and cousin of his Father, Craig, Mother, Cheryl (nee Hayter) and sister Tawny, Grandparents, Norma Moffat and the late Calvin Moffat of Kincardine, Ontario, Canada and Bryan and Margaret Hayter of Guelph, Ontario, Canada and many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. Caleb was born is Oakville, Ontario, Canada and moved with his family to the United States in August, 1995.

Caleb’s dream was a career in professional hockey and his hockey journey took him to the four corners of North America in the minor professional leagues of Canada and the United States.

His sudden passing was an incredible and enormous shock to all who knew him for he was called away far too soon. We believe he continues to chase his dream in preparation for when we all meet again to watch him play.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shepherd Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia or Charity of your choice.

Picture courtesy of Laura Adkins via Volzeye.com

Retirement?

Several players have floated the idea that they may not return after this season; but when asked about retirement after winning back-to-back cups, not one current Ice Bear was ready to call it quits.

Tim Vitek said, "Next year?! I don't know about that right now. It's a long summer, I'll talk to Scotty"

"I have not decided any of that,” Kevin Swider said. “We'll see what happens. There is a lot that goes into it, but I am just going to enjoy this right now and just relax and hang out with these guys before they got to head north."

One recent development that may influence Swider's decision to continue playing Ice Bears hockey is wife Angela Swider is expecting the couple's first child this fall...congratulations Angela and Kevin!

Locker Room Celebrations

After winning the President's Cup, that on-ice celebration continued in the Ice Bears team dressing room with chilled champagne and a number of congratulatory speeches...

Coach Scott Hillman: "Boys I could go down the list. near the top of the list has got to be the goaltending duo that battled friendly amongst each other. We knew this team was a little different than any others we've been involved in -- that you guys have ever been involved in - that adversity would bring the best out of us. We knew that. We believed in you guys. We all came here on a mission and we all accomplished that mission together. Everybody upstairs, downstairs, and around the room boys. We did it as a team boys. Good job boys."

Kevin Swider: "You guys, could not have done this one without all eighteen of us. The little things we saw each night. Coming in -- adversity, game five overtime -- game three overtime this series -- yesterday tying it up with a minute left -- winning in overtime. Thanks to everyone there. All you guys."

Coach Marc Rodgers: “Gentleman, you guys did something that nobody has ever done before. You guys will never forget this day. Right now -- what you guys have done is unbelievable 'til the day you die, you can tell your kids, your grandkids, whoever, right here is what you guys have done. Anybody that'll listen!”

Post Season Celebration

The Ice Bears threw a season-ending bash over the weekend and the event gave Knoxville fans the chance to congratulate the team on another successful season.

The Ice Bears often say their loyal fans are like skating with a 6th attacker, so the team showed their appreciation with a post-season party. Several hundred fans turned out on Saturday for the barbecue banquet, held at the Civic Coliseum Plaza.

“Oh, I think it's great!” Ice Bears fan Buddy Tharp said. “All the fans get together and I have a little eating session. there's nothing like it."

Ice Bears Forward, JJ Wrobel added, "It's nice to kind of be able to come out here and hang out with them, and let them know how much they meant to us in the playoffs." Players visited with fans, signed autographs and posed for plenty of pictures.

"I got to talk to several of the players” Ice Bears fan, Dave Weatherford, said. “Find out sort of what their going to do this summer, things like that." Another fan, Chris Hoosier, added “It's good to have a get-together before, before they all take off."

"it is just great for the city of Knoxville, and all our fans,” Ice Bears Forward, Mike Carter, said. “It's just a great time for us, and I am really happy, super happy that we won it again."

SPHL hardware was also on display - some fans made signs - others shared photos. this championship celebration is becoming an annual Ice Bears event!

Hunnies get an Early Start

The Ice Bears hockey season's just ended, and the Hunnies have already set next year's dance team roster.

The Hunnies have to learn new dance routines in the off-season, so the team got an early start and held tryouts over the weekend. On Saturday, the Hunnies dance team replenished its squad by adding 7 new members for the 2009-2010 season.

"I've seen some jumping and leaping,” Erica Wilkerson, Ice Bears Hunnies captain said. ”So it looks pretty good, so hopefully we're going to have some good additions to the team, and some that can leap better than some of us now, so that's good!"

the auditions included an interview, and a dance performance. “I just really miss being part of a team and I love dancing,” said Hunnies rookie, Noelle Jackson. “So I saw the ad and thought I'd come on out."

The new Hunnies are Noelle Jackson, Bethany Bilyeu, Ashley Robertson, Jessica Anderson, Sarah Richardson, Heather Moore, and Renee' Stanclisse

Another Hunnies rookie, Bethany Bilyeu, said, "I know the Hunnies do a lot of volunteer work and are involved in the community and thought it was a really good organization, and I love the Ice Bears."

Returning Hunnies are Erica Wilkerson, Tiffany Sims, Brittany Edwards, Angela Bryant, and Sequoia Simpson.

One long-time hunnie, Hayley Henry, is going away to law school and will leave the dance team. New members of the Hunnies will participate in their first community function on Saturday June 13th. The Hunnies will hold a car wash at Cici's Pizza on Tazewell Pike, just off Broadway in North Knoxville

Playoff ready

The league honors the Ice Bears, selecting 4 players and its coach for all star recognition...

The Ice Bears open the post-season tomorrow night in defense of the president's cup - looking to become the first SPHL team to win back-to-back playoff championships. Coach Hillman said, "We are trying to get sharper, now we feel like we are getting back to a little more consistent hockey, to where we feel when we enter the game that we are going to win that hockey game, and that is the feeling we need heading into playoffs." The Knoxville hockey club faces its chief rival - the Huntsville Havoc - in round one

The boys got a taste of their success over the weekend when the league commissioner, accompanied by the SPHL's director of operations presented the "Coffey trophy" - honoring the Ice Bears for clinching the regular season title for the 2nd year in a row, and for the 4th time in 5 seasons.

Ice Bears captain Kevin Swider accepted the award - but hockey superstition prevents players from skating the regular season trophy until after the playoffs. "Obviously we accomplished our first goal that we set for the beginning of the year,” Swider said. “You know that's kind of what we've been working for since day one and just getting past that and our focus is just on the playoffs, just kinda getting our feet under us before we get into the playoff run."

The Ice Bears record through the 60-game SPHL regular season schedule is 35 wins, 16 losses, and 9 overtime losses, good for 79 points - that 79 points is an SPHL record for most points in a season.

Another SPHL team is in financial trouble - the Twin City Cyclones are planning to leave Winston-Salem and are now looking for a new city to relocate to. The Winston-Salem journal reports the Cyclones told the Winston-Salem entertainment sports complex that they would be suspending operations for the 2009-2010 season.

The cyclones finished last in league attendance - the North Carolina franchise drew an average 11-hundred fans a game, for a total of nearly 34,000 through 30 games...that's less than one-third the fans the Ice Bears attracted this season.



Picture courtesy of *NAME* via Volzeye.com

Ice Notes

As a team the Ice Bears topped the league, but where did individual players end up in the SPHL regular season awards...

Ice Bears players locked-up 3 of the 6 first team positions in this year's SPHL regular season awards...



SPHL regular season awards
2008-2009

1st team

Defense - Kevin Harris Knoxville
Defense - Dan Vandermeer Richmond
Forward - Kevin Swider Knoxville
Forward - Travis Kauffeldt Huntsville
Forward - Donald Melnyk Twin City
Goalie - Andrew Gallant Knoxville

Making up half of the league's honor roll are Knoxville's Kevin Harris on defense, goaltender Andrew Gallant, and forward Kevin Swider. "We are so proud of these guys,” Coach Scott Hillman said. “Obviously it takes a whole dressing room to have a great year."

To go with the team's regular season championship, Ice Bears captain Kevin Swider locked up his 5th consecutive SPHL scoring title - Swider led the league in assists with 55, and with his 37 goals - tallied a league best 92 points. Swider also led the league in the plus-minus stat, with an impressive plus-28. "individual awards are great and all,” Swider said. “But it is a team game, and I couldn't have had any success without my linemates and our teammates. It shows why we are on top of league as a team"

Swider linemates Tim Vitek and mike Carter finished 4th and 7th respectively in the SPHL scoring race. "Just outstanding awards for these guys and there could have been many more,” Hillman added. “Go down the list, Vitek, Carter, so many more, so many guys had great years."

Knoxville netminder Andrew Gallant is the league's leading goaltender - he finished with a 2.61 goals against average, a 92-percent save percentage, and one shutout. Gallant was between the pipes for 20 wins, 7 regulation losses, and 4 overtime losses. Coach Hillman said, "Believe me both goalies deserve great honors, they can only probably choose one from a team so, Andrew Gallant -- outstanding year." Goalie Kirk Irving - who shared top honors throughout the season - finished 3rd among leading goaltenders.

Rounding out the SPHL first team are Richmond's Dan Vandermeer on defense, and Huntsville's Travis Kauffeldt and Twin City's Donald Melnyk at forward.


SPHL regular season awards
2008-2009
Rookie Team

Defense - Travis Martell Knoxville
Defense - Kyle Lundale Columbus
Forward - Ryan Busby Richmond
Forward - Sam Bowles Columbus
Forward - Michael Richard Twin City
Goalie - Ryan Scott Richmond

The Ice Bears Travis Martell lands on the league's all rookie team, paired with Columbus's Kyle Lundale on defense. Rookie forwards include Richmond's Ryan Busby, Columbus's Sam Bowles, and Twin City's Michael Richard. Rookie goaltender honors go to Richmond's Ryan Scott


SPHL regular season awards
2008-2009

MVP - Travis Kauffeldt Huntsville
Rookie of the Year - Michael Richard Twin City
Defenseman of the Year - Kevin Harris Knoxville
Coach of the Year - Scott Hillman Knoxville

Knoxville's Kevin Harris wraps up the Defenseman of the year award. "I am very proud of the accomplishment,” Harris said. “You know it is an enjoyable thing for myself to have. You know obviously with the great team we have awards like this can be given out -- but now we've got one more goal left to achieve and that is to win the championship"

The MVP goes to Huntsville's Kauffeldt, and Twin City's Richard is rookie of the year. Meantime, Ice Bears head coach Scott Hillman earns coach of the year accolades. " well certainly we're honored for that,” Hillman said. “I say we because Marc Rodgers is a big part of that, and obviously if the players in the dressing room did not perform to the high standards that they did -- there's no consideration for the coaches."

"He should have had it last year, too,” Ice Bears captain Kevin Swider said. “You know the hard work he puts in on and off the ice and another award well deserved."

The Ice Bears special teams finished second in both powerplay and penalty kill - a nearly 19% success rate with a man advantage, and nearly 84% success while shorthanded.

In league attendance, Knoxville finished middle of the pack - 3rd out of 6 teams with a little more than 101-thousand fans for 30 games. That's an average of nearly 34-hundred spectators a game.

Ice Bears forward - turned defenseman - Mark Van Vliet has recovered from a fracture in his lower right leg - he hurt himself while on call-up to Cincinnati of the ECHL. "I just got the boot off yesterday,” Van Vliet said. “I skated this morning. I am going to go on the road this weekend with the guys, but I am not certain if I am going to play or not, but we are going to see how it feels.”

Van Vliet told us that after Thursday's game here in Knoxville - on Saturday, he re-entered the line-up in Richmond and forced overtime by scoring the tying goal. "We think he might be that final boost we need heading into the playoffs,” Coach Hillman added.

To make room for Van Vliet, Coach Hillman moved newcomer d-man Glenn Cacaro to the 30-day injured reserve. Cacaro had skated a 3-game tryout, and signed a season contract before landing on the injured list last week. "I'm having a great time,” said Cacaro. “I appreciate the coaches giving me an opportunity to play. I am just having a blast hanging out with the guys and getting to know them." Coach Hillman added, "We can't speak enough on how Glenn Cacaro stepped in for us, played a great roll, and played five very solid games -- we certainly hope that Glenn will be back with us next fall. He'll be returning to school to finish up his studies."

Earlier in the week, the Ice Bears placed forward JJ Wrobel on the 30-day I-r, which made room for Cacaro. Coach Hillman said, "Unfortunately JJ sustained an injury -- that was going to be too much of a risk for us to go into the playoffs with risks that we might drop down to seventeen players." JJ added, "It's always tough obviously, but with the group of guys we have and the team we have, I think, you know, any guy could be out and you'd still get the same result." Coach says JJ will continue to lead off the ice, in the locker room during the playoffs.




Picture courtesy of *NAME* via Volzeye.com

SpongeBob visits the Bear Cave

Ice Bears promotions are designed to entertain fans, as well as attract new ones.

SpongeBob Squarepants is a children's favorite animated character who lives in the pacific ocean's fictional city of bikini bottom; he left home recently to visit the Ice Bears.

The "SpongeBob night" at the coliseum attracted dozens of families, many who are loyal viewers of the popular nickelodeon cartoon! In case you don't know - SpongeBob is a sea sponge, but looks more like a kitchen sponge.

Some spectators say they're more familiar with the cartoon, than with Ice Bears hockey. "We have never been to an Ice Bears game and we wanted to see SpongeBob Squarepants!” said Stephanie Harris. And Cindy Alpert said, "We came out tonight just to see SpongeBob, this is our first Ice Bears game. We just moved here from Naples, Florida, so this is fantastic."

SpongeBob's humor appeals to both children and adults - and now, he's responsible for attracting new fans to Ice Bears hockey! Stephanie Harris added, "Now that we've been here, we see that it's awesome. So, we'll definitely be back."

Recruiting Report

Coach Hillman, Assistant Coach Marc Rodgers and the Ice Bears front office, especially general manager Mike Murray work in advance of each season on putting together an SPHL championship contender.

This week we take an in-depth look at that year-round process.


Year Round Process

"It's slightly different at every level of hockey,”Coach Scott Hillman said. “But and each coach has they're own philosophy. I try to keep those recruiting actions going all year long. Obviously you have to tame it down a little bit during your season because there's so much other things to worry about, but there's definitely communication with players and coaches at all levels. You know, trying to keep the interest and the name of the Ice Bears and the quality of our organization and the whole SPHL - keep our name out there and we've had a lot of conversations and this is actually the time of year when the people trying to look to their professional careers are making contacts as well, not just us contacting them, but they're contacting us because some of the junior seasons are winding down, some of the college teams are done already, some are heading towards the national championship. So, this is the time of the year the players are announcing to their college coaches that you know I am wanting to make the transition to the pro game. So there's definitely a lot of communication right now, but we keep that going twelve months a year."

Recruiting Pool

"I think we will see more division one type players. A few years ago it was a real rarity to see any division one players in this league and we've got a good handful on our roster and Derek Pallardy is a great example of that. A guy with a great four year career as a defensive forward and he's proving now that he can also put the puck in the net, but he's definitely the premier penalty killer in this whole league, I believe. Guys like that - that you know we also talked about there are less Double A teams - if you will. It seems each year there are rumors that three or four of those teams - whether it would be in the Central League, the IHL or the East Ccoast League may not be there next year, and our league is going to benefit from that and the fact that we will get better and better quality players. Some of those guys that think they have a secure spot in the AA as a lot of them do find out that they need a back up plan and the SPHL has really proved to be a pruning ground and a breeding ground for these guys. Mark Van Vliet is a great example."

Commitments

"We can't give out any names because there's nothing they are allowed to sign yet to commit them to us versus going to another team in our league. So signing isn't going to be until mid-may this year. We've changed some recruiting rules in our league that doesn't allow anyone to commit until you've submitted your final roster, both for play-offs and post season. We also have to wait and see if there is expansion, because some of our players, if there is an expansion will have to go on the expansion draft list, so we're waiting on the league to iron out all of their final dates then we will sign our commitments."

SPHL commissioner Jim combs has said the league's hoping to expand in Pensacola and Augusta, among other cities.

Returning Players

"You know you're trying to form your roster and obviously the first thing you need to know is which players have an interest in returning, and that is definitely something we do not speak to them about until the year is over. We're going to have a situation were we are going to have to make some tough decisions on some veteran players. We've got six guys in our line up who are or will be considered veterans next year. Obviously if the league doesn't change the number of veterans, which is currently three, and they do not change the number of games, which is 225, to classify you as veteran, we will have three guys in our roster that we can't keep next year that we know for sure. So once we get a read on which guys wanna come back next year, we kinda know the holes we want to fill, and obviously every team has a style they like to play, so you try to find players that fit into your style. And if you want to change your style you start looking for more of those guys that you want to adapt to. So, there's a particular type of player that we'll be out there looking for once we know which players we are losing."

Rumors

There have been rumblings that Tim Vitek, JJ Wrobel, and Kevin Swider may not be coming back, "If any of those guys leave it is going to be big holes, but that's what you expect every year you've got some huge holes to fill, like Mike Craigen, this year. It is so hard to replace and some guys are not replaceable, but you've got to find a way then you piece it together, and all those in the dressing room to grow to help replace that one individual. No matter who it is losing three of our more senior players is going to be real tough."

Looking Ahead

"It's always exciting to look ahead. I find recruiting just a real exciting process as part of the coaching world. Recruiting is great, it's great to talk to the young guys and hear how excited they are to try and start their career and we like the young players who are looking to make their first step and we help to get them to a higher level. But you know it is just a great time of year, to hear the excitement. I can remember being on the on the other end of it. Being a player sitting at the computer and on the phone trying to make contact with the coaches and get your name known. We're definitely fielding a lot of those right now and to hear the excitement in their voice and to hear the passion they would bring to the organization."

Other Thoughts

"You know I think for us there's some players - not to name names - that we feel were really missing that style of guys that could really go out there and bang. We've got the whole team playing right now playing more physical, but you still miss a few of those guys that can really run through players. All players have their own style of game and you find the guys that compliment for the season, but sometime you want to tweak that and look for those individuals that might just bring a little bit different style and thats kinda the areas we will be going after."

"Who You Know" Helps

No matter what a recruits' stats might show of his potential to play professional hockey, sometimes he won't get a look or an invitation to a minor league camp unless he knows the right people.

Here's an anecdote from Ice Bears general manager mike Murray.

"Take Clay Lewis for example -- three years ago a couple weeks after I was in office -- my ex-roommate who played for the Hershey bears, Jeff chickren, had called me and he is now residing in Boca raton, fl with his family. He had mentioned this kid, he said I have this kid that you might want to take a look at, he's about 6'4 - 220, I said is he tough? he said yeah. And his tennis coach in this little gated community that he lives in down there is Clay Lewis' father, so -- clay was just looking for a place to play."


"But often it is Marc Rodgers contacts or Scotty's contacts when he played there. And you never know where you are going to find the next biggest thing that comes to your town. So, we'll take them anyway, it doesn't say how you found them once you get them here on the back of your jerseys."

sometimes, "who you know" helps get your foot in the door.

Selling New Recruits on Knoxville

Once the front office folks and the coaches identify potential recruits their job is to sell that player on making his in-season home here in Knoxville.

"These guys go home for the summer. They lace the skates up with people from all other leagues and they talk. Where's the best place to play in the league or where's the best teams to go, how do they treat you? are you treated like a professional player? you know I am one hundred percent confident that anybody coming out of Knoxville can say no other,” Mike Murray, Ice Bears GM, said. “That's huge in recruiting because these are your best recruiters, the players that play here. You treat them they way Scotty (Hillman) and I want to be treated when we played; that is kinda our basis. Any player that leaves here is traded or retires or whatever, they'll know the time they spent here was great. A lot of it has to do with our fans, our booster club and all other people that support them."



"Scotty is the hardest working coach in this league and probably some others. A lot of people don't see it because they're not here day to day like I am, but whether it would be splicing video or trying to motivate a player that is kinda in a slump. He's been there, he's seen it, and he's been schooled by some of the best. From what I've seen I would rather not have any other here. I extended his contract last summer, so he's good through 2011, so hopefully we can put another couple of championships under our belt before then."

playoffs begin next week!

Training Camp

Once the phone calls, the text messaging, the emails - all the corresponding is done the recruits are invited to camp.

And this fall, the Ice Bears are considering holding a free agent camp, prior to their regular yearly training camp.

"We would just have a free agent camp for a few days -- maybe an extended weekend and just vow to take three guys to our main camp. that would be extent of enough,” Ice Bears GM Mike Murray said. “That would be an awareness of what our organization is and Scotty (Scott Hillman) and Rodgy (Marc Rodgers) would watch it. We would have scrimmage games and that kind of thing. As far as league rules go, you can't do it two weeks before training camp so you can't have an extended camp so to speak -- you can't have your regular guys mixed in with that."

“The level of this league as we have seen gets better and better and my recruiting expectations rise with the level of the league,” Coach Scott Hillman added. “The players that we maybe would have considered bringing to camp more seriously last year some of those guys won't even make it to camp this year. The level of camps get more and more competitive and we're going to continue to recruit a large camp because there are some players that really surprise you. The league allows you to bring in thirty and we will be close to thirty next fall."

training camp is just around the corner...

Youth Players of the Game

Each week the Ice Bears recognize the player of the game.

As you know, the amateur youth hockey players skate out onto the Civic Coliseum ice surface with the team during pre-game ceremonies.

This week, that honor went to a couple youngsters. On Friday, the Ice Bears recognized Spencer Bernard - a player with the Ice Chalet Ice Hawks. Then on Saturday, the club honored Davis Buehler , whom also plays at the Ice Chalet.

Congratulations to both Davis and Spencer!

Young Recruit

Normally professional hockey teams don't begin recruiting players who are not yet out of their teen years but, in this case the Ice Bears may already have their eye on a new young talent.

Corbin is a 6-year-old who goes to kindergarten at Ritta Elementary. In his first year playing the game, he helped his Mite Division team win the KAHA Season Championship.

You may have guessed by now that Corbin is the son of Ice Bears coach Scott Hillman. Corbin plays left wing for the silver bullets and he scored 2 goals in his team's championship victory. "yeah we were really proud of ourselves,” Corbin added.

Corbin and his brother Gunhar often practice after home games with assistant coach Marc Rodgers' boys Dalton and Garrett

It may seem early to be recruiting Corbin for a professional hockey club, but coaches can't risk letting the good ones slip away.

Ice Notes.

Call-up update, making up for lost time on the IR and another Ice Bear Milestone.

Ice Bears alternate captain Mike carter missed the third periods of play in both Knoxville's weekend games. "He went about a period-and-a-half playing real physical - hit everything that moved on Friday night in twin city, and unfortunately got banged up a little more,” Coach Scott Hillman said. “But again, those are the bumps and bruises this time of year - he'll be back on the ice later this week and ready for this week's match-ups."

Ice Bears defenseman Mark Van Vliet is making his mark on call-up with the Cincinnati cyclones of the ECHL. Last Wednesday, Van Vliet scored the insurance goal in Cincinnati's shutout against the Reading Royals. So far, through 5 games with the defending Kelly Cup playoff champs, the Dorchester, Ontario Canadian is a +1 with 2 PIMs. "Just very positive reports - we understand he sustained a mild ankle injury, but he will be back on the ice we believe with them before we see him again at some point before playoffs,” Hillman said.

And Ice Bears forward Derek Pallardy continues to impress in his second week of play, after coming off 30-day injured reserve. Pallardy scored a shorthanded goal along with 2 assists over the weekend. Hillman said Pallardy is "a guy that had a great 4-year career as a defensive forward - he's proving now that he can also put the puck in the net - but he's definitely the premier penalty killer in this whole league, I believe."

Ice Bears captain Kevin Swider added 2 goals and 1 assist in the weekend's pair of games. Swider now has 82 points in leading the SPHL scoring race, he'll have to average 2-and-a-quarter points in each of the 8 remaining games in order to reach 100 points for the 60 game season. Swider's the only player to win the SPHL scoring race in the league's 4 years of existence - he reached the 100 point plateau twice. The first time was the 2004-2005 season, he then accomplished the feat again the following year.

On Friday, forward Chris Rebernik hit a milestone, recording his 15th goal of the season. Through 30 games, Rebernik's averaged nearly a point a game - he has 28 now for the campaign, which saw him serve a 30-day stint on the IR.




Picture courtesy of Jeff Haas of Haas Design Photography and Laura Adkins via Volzeye.com

Street Hockey

Young Ice Bears fans now have the opportunity to play street hockey on game nights.

The Boweman's of Oak Ridge are some of the first fans to try out the new attraction. Tim Boweman, just brought his daughter Haylee to her first hockey game. "We used to come and watch all the hockey games when we were younger and just thought to bring her."

It's also 6-year-old Haylee's first time learning the game, by playing street hockey. This playing surface is much smaller than an ice rink, making it easier for these young girls and boys learn by doing.

Unlike traditional hockey - the street hockey sticks are big and soft, and the puck is a large foam ball - so no one gets hurt.

Haylee's dad, along with other parents, line the sidelines to support their children. "oh yeah, she was excited the whole way over here,” Bowman said.

"If we bring in an Ice Bears fan for the very first time - very first game - there's lots of reasons to make them come back - hopefully this is another one of them,” Ice Bears GM Mike Murray said.

The players all receive safety instructions before the contests, which are chaperoned by a front office staff member.





Picture courtesy of *NAME* via Volzeye.com

Upcoming on Ice Promotions

The "family friendly" Ice Bears are digging deep into the team's pocket to help provide sick children the best medical care money can buy.

The Ice Bears will help buy state-of-the-art medical equipment for young patients who receive medical treatment at home, through Children's Hospital.

the team will raise the money with a jersey auction on Saturday. In the game against the Havoc, the Ice Bears will wear special edition sweaters in honor of the many lives that Children's Hospital touches each day. These jerseys will be auctioned immediately following the game, with 100-percent of the proceeds going to the non-profit, a first for the organization.

As we've shown you, Ice Bears players visit boys and girls there about 10 times each season to deliver teddy bears! The kids' medical center holds a special place in the heart of the organization.

Youth Player of the Game

On Thursday, the Ice Bears recognized another youth hockey player selected to skate with the pros. The team welcomed 10-year-old Jacob Elam of Oak Ridge.

Jacob, a 5th grader at Jefferson middle school, plays goal for the Junior Ice Bears sports select team at the Icearium at Cool Sports in Farragut.

Jacob said his favorite part of the night was "getting to meet the players and skating on the ice with them."

"I am very proud of Jacob he's really only been skating for about two years and he's really come a long way in two years,” Jacob's mom, Karla Elam said. “He's playing with a great group of kids and it was a lot of fun seeing him skate out there with his Ice Bears friends that he admires so much."

Congratulations Jacob!

Ice Notes

Who's back from the IR, who got the call up, and Bears creeping ahead in the scoring race.

Forward Derek Pallardy came off 30-day injured reserve last week, and in his first weekend back in the line-up Pallardy got the Ice Bears on the board first against the renegades. He was a +1 in both weekend games; the time off didn't hurt him. "Just a great weekend he contributed in all ends of the rink, scored a goal today. we're just real excited to have him back healthy,” Ice Bears coach Scott Hillman said of Pallardy.

Alternate captain BJ Pelkey joined the 20-goal club for the second time in his 2-year pro career. Pelkey scored his 20th on Saturday against Richmond

Ice Bears defenseman Mark Van Vliet played a pair of games over the weekend on call-up with the Cincinnati cyclones of the ECHL. The defending Kelly Cup Playoff champs won both contests against the Dayton Bombers. "Rosters got a great report from Mark Van Vliet, had a great first game, played some power play time,” Hillman said.

Ice Bears captain Kevin Swider added a goal and 3 assists to his league-leading scoring race point total. Swider's accumulated 79 points, which is 15 ahead of his nearest competitor. The Ice Bears now have 5 scorers among the top 25 in the league. Joining Swider are linemates Tim Vitek, and Mike Carter, along with Pelkey and Justin Keller

Once again, Ice Bears net minders Andrew Gallant and Kirk Irving are ranked first and second among the league's best goalies. Irving won in goal on Friday against Fayetteville, while Gallant lost in a shootout Saturday against Richmond.




Picture courtesy of Jeff Haas, Laura Adkins and Lee Montgomery via Volzeye.com

Karaoke Night

It was another memorable night of singing and carousing with the players taking center stage on karaoke night.

The Ice Bears booster club again hosted the fellowship evening at big mama's karaoke cafe in Seymour. Among the singers - boosters and hunnies dance team members joined Ice Bears for a few selections.






By the way, here are a couple booster club event dates to mark on your calendar:

->Saturday, March 14th during the game against twin city, the boosters hold the annual player basket auction at the coliseum

->Monday march 16th is another billiards night at "rack -n- run."


Support the Ice Bears by joining the boosters club!


Picture courtesy of Pam via Volzeye.com

Mike Craigen returns to the Bear Cave

Hockey fans either loved or hated him - this former Ice Bear was known throughout the league to "stir the pot."

Ice Bears fans got to see one of the league's all-time top penalty getters here at the rink this weekend, former Ice Bear Mike Craigen returned to help judge the Miss Ice Bear competition, and catch up with his former fans and teammates. Craigen's accustomed to seeing his name on the score sheet - but this time, he was the one keeping score.

On Friday, the Ice Bears pressed Craigen into service, although he was in town vacationing. The 26-year-old spent time in the press box providing color analysis for the Knoxville-Fayetteville game webcast.

Then, Saturday - Craigen visited with old teammates, including KJ Voorhees. "He was a good friend of mine,” Voorhees said. “He was kind of the unofficial mayor of Knoxville hockey. He meant a lot to this association, so it is good to have him back."

"Tonight was the first time I was kinda able to sit down and watch, look around and see everybody and see the starting line up, hear Mark Atnip's voice and it's a good crowd and tonight I get the itch a little bit tonight,” Mike Craigen said.

Craigen contributed on the Ice Bears 2006-2007 championship team - but winning his second playoffs last season with Knoxville is the one he treasures. "I didn't know last year was my last year when I won it, so it makes it all that more special that in my last year I got a chance to win it in front of the home crowd and carry the trophy around in front of all these fans."

Craigen retired from pro hockey last season after years of sacrificing personal income by playing in the minor leagues. "It's no big secret that there's not a lot of money in the SPHL,” Craigen said. “It's got nothing to do with the Ice Bears -- it's tough."

The 5-foot-3 former forward now works full-time as a telephone lineman for Bell Canada and he says his customers appreciate him. "You would be surprised how many people are so happy that I even show up. A lot of people don't like the phone company. So yeah, I get cheered sometimes."

Craigen plays in a senior mens' hockey league at home in Buckhorn, Ontario, Canada, which is about 100 miles from Toronto. The crowds at his games now, are much smaller. "It's definitely not the same as being down here with the Ice Bears. Instead of there being three thousand people there's like two hundred people watching, but it's okay." Craigen says he's content with his new career, but he doesn't rule out someday returning to professional hockey.

Craigen's visit brings to mind one of the loudest cheering sections at last season's Ice Bears home games, but with his retirement, "Craigen's Crew" now appears to have disbanded. Section "G" at the Civic Coliseum is relatively quiet these days. Ice Bears season ticket holders who used to band together to cheer on their favorite player have moved their seats closer to center ice ...

"When Craigen left, everybody else left," said Patti Humbard, a former member of Craigen's Crew. Bill Humbard said "It's awful quiet. There's not a lot of people sitting in this section, unless you're just coming in to view a game."

Patti and Bill Humbard from Jefferson City are among the few holdovers still in section "G." They remember the Craigen's Crew years when their section used rock every time number 16 took the ice. "It was unbelievable,” Bill said. “The atmosphere around here, you just couldn't describe it."

"You see a little guy competing physically where most of the other guys are a little bigger, Mike's dad Rob Craigen said. “It's kind of neat, it's like cheering for the underdog."

Craigen tells us he had dinner with his "crew" after Saturday night's game.

Upcoming Game Night Promotions

You might think coming off last weekend's game night promotions - Mardi gras, and miss Ice Bear - would be hard to beat, but more family friendly entertainment is headed our way.

Thursday night, the Ice Bears celebrate the "Man in Black's" birthday. Join the festivities for the Johnny Cash 77th birthday bash! Tennessee's known as the home of country music, and the Ice Bears celebrate one of that music's best. Be part of the fun, and make sure to wear your black! Thursday night is also dollar days - just a buck for hot dogs, small popcorn and drinks.

This Friday is the deadline for season ticket renewals. The Ice Bears play 29 home games in the 2009 -2010 season. Adult prices range from $285 to $705. And don't forget to order your Ice Bears playoff tickets!

And join Ice Bears players for an afternoon of street hockey this Sunday from 2-until 4 pm. The game will be held at Dr. Bennett's office, located at 3018 Mall Road South, by Knoxville Center Mall.


View Larger Map

Youth Players of the Game

On Saturday, the Ice Bears recognized another brother and sister who stand out in their youth hockey leagues.

Rachel and Brandon Wolfenbarger are hockey playing siblings. 7-year-old Rachel goes to school at A.L. Lotts Elementary, and plays defense for the Silver Bullet Mite team. 4-year-old Brandon attends Concord United Methodist Preschool and is in the Ice Chalet's Cross Ice program.

"They couldn't wait,” mom Traci Wolfenbarger said. “We've been planning this for several weeks, so they were thrilled. I watch them every week in practice. Both of them practice twice a week. It was awesome. I was so proud of them. they did great."

Congratulations Rachel and Brandon!

Miss Ice Bear 2009 [Video]

The Annual Miss Ice Bear pageant drew in the fans again this year.

Eleven East Tennessee beauties took the ice between both the first and second intermissions to impress the panel of judges. No talent competition required, but the ladies showed "personality plus" as they aimed to represent the Ice Bears as the team's beauty queen. The Saturday night event consisted of an evening gown competition, followed by swim wear. Judges chose three finalists, with 21-year-old Heather Chastain of Maryville winning this year's crown. "When I got top there I was really nervous because I really wanted to win,” Heather said. “Then when I saw that I won, I was like... I don't know what to do. I kind of wanted to scream."

Heather works at a Knoxville dining establishment, known for its attractive serving staff.

Congratulations Heather Chastain - Miss Ice Bear 2009!

Richmond Renegades Suspend Operations

The Richmond Renegades will be suspending operations after this season. Read the full news release inside.


At a News conference held in the Richmond Coliseum on Tuesday Richmond Renegades President/GM, Allan B. Harvie, Jr. advised the media and fans that, barring an infusion of capital from an investor or the sale of the team, he will request permission from the SPHL to suspend hockey operations for next season following the playoffs.

“This has been an extremely trying year for everybody financially,” stated Harvie. “We have our loyal fans and sponsors who continue to support hockey but unfortunately there are not enough of them to begin to pay the cost of operating a team. The economy has driven a spike into the heart of the leisure time market and fans have very hard choices to make with their money. Despite having an exciting team currently in second place, fans simply cannot afford to come to games on a regular basis. It used to be fans would come at least once a week and now they’re lucky if they can afford to come once a month.”

Harvie stated that the Renegades request to suspend operations for next season should not be taken as any kind of an indication that there is any problem with the SPHL. He claims just the opposite is the case.

“The SPHL overall is very healthy and it appears that there will be two or more teams coming in next season,” he continued. “The league has done more than you can imagine to assist Richmond over the past few weeks. They really want us to continue to be a part of the SPHL family but the SPHL Board also understands this is a business. We don’t want to be a drag on the growth of the league.”

“The Richmond economy is what has forced us to step back and take a break. There have been an abnormally high number of companies and government agencies in Richmond who have run into financial problems. Every day we read about one more Richmond company in trouble. That has caused a ripple effect throughout the entire business community. As I have stated before, when our fans have to choose between buying health insurance, gas or hockey tickets, the choice is obvious.”

Harvie also thanked the fans and sponsors for their support of hockey since he first brought the original Renegades to Richmond in 1990.

“It’s been a true labor of love for me, Tracy (Hynes) and Brian (Nevetral) every minute of every day. However, over the past few weeks I have continued to speak with many of our sponsors and they have told me they cannot continue to support us at the same financial level, if at all. We placed playoff tickets on sale and the pre-sale was not at all encouraging. We put season tickets on sale for next season and their sale was almost negligible, even when considering the carry over from unused playoff tickets. Those signs are good indicators of what’s happening in the marketplace.” Fans who had paid for or placed deposits on season tickets for the 2009-2010 season will receive refunds “beginning immediately” stated Harvie. Playoff tickets will not be affected as “we should go deep this season” stated Harvie.

At several occasions during the press conference Harvie noted that he has spoken with an investor who has expressed a sincere interest in either investing in the team or a possible purchase.

“This gentleman is very financially set and has an excellent sports and marketing background. He would be a great fit for the Renegades and the fans,” noted Harvie. “We have spoken and will continue to discuss his possible involvement with the Renegades and should that happen it would mean that the team would not need to suspend at the end of the season; something that would excite everybody. I will keep you posted on the progress of these meetings and conversations.”

Harvie said that he had met with his players and Coach earlier in the morning at SkateNation in Short Pump. “These are professional players and I felt they were entitled to know what our plans our. I want them to be focused 100% on winning a championship because we have a very real opportunity to do that this season with these “cardiac kids”. They are so exciting to watch.”

Harvie went on, “Since I first brought hockey to Richmond I have always been up front with my fans and sponsors and I’m not going to change now. That’s why I think it’s important to let everybody know where we stand. It’s indeed a very, very sad day not just for hockey but for professional sports in Richmond. I would ask all sports fans to come out in huge numbers on March 13th, 15th and 21st to say thanks to Coach Goudie and these young men for the fantastic entertainment they have provided over the past years.

From RRenegades.com

Bench Clearing Brawl [Video]

Check out these videos of the bench clearing brawl in the Twin Cities.


On Friday the Twin City Cyclones hosted the Columbus Cottonmouths in a game that quickly turned into a scene out of "Slap Shot."







Fridays Brawl resulted in twenty penalties for 8 players and suspensions for 7 of those players ranging from 1 to 5 games.


And this one is just for fun. Enjoy:

Ice Notes

Catch up on this weeks roster moves, how the Ice Bears stack up in the scoring race and who's getting called up.

The Ice Bears have accomplished an unprecedented achievement in SPHL hockey, for the first time in memory - 3 players from the same team hold down the league's top 3 positions in the scoring race, and 2 of the league's top 3 goaltenders are also on that same team.

Ice Bears linemates Kevin Swider, Tim Vitek and Mike Carter lead all scorers with 76, 61, and 59 points respectively - the 3 highest scorers in the SPHL. Team captain Swider recorded his 30th goal of the season on Friday against the Cyclones, and is closing in on his 5th consecutive league scoring title. "You just know you can call on him for a big goal at key times," said Ice Bears coach Scott Hillman.

"I think it's gotta be our practice - we work hard in practice - so it's definitely our conditioning is up right now." Said Vitek, who notched his twentieth goal on Thursday at Huntsville.

Carter scored his second pro hat trick to boost his point total during the Ice Bears 7 games in 9 days stretch. "I believe he sees himself as one of the best players in this league and he's playing with confidence, skating and shooting the puck,” said Hillman.

Ice Bears netminders Andrew Gallant and Kirk Irving are among the league's best goalies. Gallant ranks first among tenders playing 15 games or more, while Irving holds down the third slot behind the Cottonmouths' Ian Vigier. "It comes to team success,” Irving said. “In the end, what we want is a championship, and whether it's him playing better or myself playing better, in the end it's just a ring on the finger is all that matters, as long as we get the win in the end of the day."

The Ice Bears mascot, "Chilly" suited up on the road Friday in Richmond - but not in his costume. Instead Rob Wilson dressed as the team's emergency back-up goaltender to starter Irving. "Andrew Gallant was very ill after the game in Huntsville, and thank goodness the bus needed to travel just about right through Knoxville knowing rob had some goaltending experience in his background,” Coach Hillman said. "'Chilly bear' our bus driver, our back-up goaltender and also functioned as our equipment manager."

And another call-up! Ice Bears defenseman Mark Van Vliet received the team's second call-up of the season. The Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL requested Van Vliet for a pair of weekend home games.
Coach Hillman tells hockey Loedown the Cincinnati club will evaluate Van Vliet following those games to determine the length of his stay. And by the way, the Cyclones are the ECHL defending Kelly Cup playoff champs.

That roster move creates room in the Ice Bears line-up for Derek Pallardy - he came off 30-day injured reserve on Tuesday

Last week, the Twin City Cyclones signed former Knoxville defenseman Jared Siganuk to a season-long contract, after previously signing him to a 3-game tryout. Siganuk played in Knoxville Saturday, wearing the number 27 sweater for the Cyclones.



Picture courtesy of Haas Designs and Laura Adkins via Volzeye.com

Upcoming Game Night Promotions

The Ice Bears may be playing before a pair of sell-out crowds when they take home ice this weekend.

The Ice Bears are blowing it out on Friday night with a huge Mardi gras celebration here at the rink. Can't make it to new Orleans this year? Celebrate with the Ice Bears as they entertain the Fayetteville Fireantz, specialty game jerseys will be auctioned off after the game.

On Saturday, when the boys host the Richmond Renegades, East Tennessee beauties compete in the annual Miss Ice Bear Competition. Finalists are judged in evening gowns and swim wear at center ice during both intermissions of the Ice Bears' game. Knoxville fan favorite Mike Craigen will return to the coliseum - not to suit up - but to serve as a celebrity judge for the miss ice bear contest.

And bring your autograph books on Saturday - after the Ice Bears game - Mikey Craigen will sign autographs!

Youth Player of the Game

On Saturday, the Ice Bears recognized a couple members of its hockey team family - coach Hillman's sons took the ice in the game night opening ceremonies honoring the boys as youth players of the game.

The team welcomed 6-year-old Corbin Hillman and his little brother, 2-year-old Guhnar Hillman. "Well, yeah, I am pretty excited and I'll have some fun," said Corbin.

Corbin plays left wing on the silver mite team at the Icearium at Cool Sports in Farragut. "It has a lot of meaning for them to be a part of the their own junior organization - they're proud," added mom, Dalyn Hillman. "The team is like family to us, and for the boys to skate out there during the game or before the game - it makes it more just like family."

Congratulations Corbin and Guhnar!

Gage Gets His Groove On!

The Hunnies dance team along with "Dancing Mike" Delozier rock the Ice Bears home games with their choreographed moves, now, add another "hoofer" to the bear cave line-up of entertainers!

Young hockey season ticket holder Gage Eggers of Jefferson City is now a regular game night feature, and he's just 4-years-old!

Young Gage is "dancing mike's" protege', "I like it, and I love it, and I like it and I love to dance with him!" Gage said. "Dancing Mike" adds, "I just noticed he was dancing all the time and figured I'd just go dance with him!"

Gage has attended Ice Bears games with his parents since he was born. "He loves it, there's no child here that loves hockey any better than him - nobody. he loves it." Stacey Eggers, Gage's mom said.

We'll watch for Gage's dancing development in the season's to come!