Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for December 14

It's our last show of 2016, the highly anticipated Christmas episode. Will Santa make an appearance? Only one way to find out! The show airs tonight at 6 pm and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina. I suspect it will be repeated a time or two over the holidays as well. Here's the lineup:


Locker Talk Guests for Dec 14/16
Co-host: Mitchell Blair



1) Locker Talk Fitness File. For December. With hosts Daniel Ince & Michelle Espino (Driven Lifestyle Group).

2) A Regina-based MMA competitor is prepping for her next fight in January. Guest: Charmaine “Not So Sweet” Tweet (MMA fighter). .


3) The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie reviewer (and the elf Santa never talks about) Carlo Palazzo is back with his thoughts on another cinematic classic. This time: Field of Dreams.

4) A preview of Kings Challenge VII, the December extravaganza put on by High Impact Wrestling in Regina. Guests: Ace Riviera & Shaun Moore (World Class Renegades – Tag Champs).

5) The Blair Necessities. Locker Talk’s weekly sports commentary.

6) Year in Review (panel). Our illustrious Locker Talk panel looks at the top local sports stories of 2016, and looks ahead to 2017. Guests: Drew Dalby (104.9 The Wolf FM) & Carlo Palazzo (Locker Talk movie reviewer/substitute host).





Wednesday, December 07, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for December 7

We're into the home stretch of the 2016 season - only two more shows until we break for the Christmas season. So, here's the lineup for this week's show, airing tonight at 6:00 and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina:


Locker Talk Guests for Dec 7/16
Co-host: Mitchell Blair



1) A post-mortem on the 2016 season for the University of Regina Rams. Guests: Steve Bryce (Head Coach), Kahlen Branning (5th year DB) & Jonah Branning (Rams recruit).

2) Regina gets set to host the 2017 Saskatchewan First Nations Games. (news conference footage)

3) It’s already been an eventful CFL offseason for the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Guest: Murray McCormick (Regina Leader-Post Rider Correspondent).

4) An update on goings-on at the Regina Ski Club for the 2016/17 season. Guests: Dale Hjertaas (Club President) & Ray Wolfman (Alpine Trip Coordinator).

5) Access 7 Sports Plays of the Month. For November.

6) The Campbell Tartans celebrate a city championship – and provincial silver medal – in high school 5A girls volleyball. Guests: Barry Leibel (Head Coach), Jessica Lerminiaux, Claire Douglas & Hannah Toews (Tartans players TBA).

7) A preview of the 2016 Balfour Fekula Classic high school basketball tournament. Guests: Tanner Brightman (Bears Head Coach/Tournament Organizer), Randy Orchard & Lee Barber (Balfour players).

8) A profile of the University of Regina men’s volleyball team. Guest: Lee Hamilton (Acting Head Coach).

9) The Blair Necessities. Locker Talk’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for November 23

As per usual, this week's show airs tonight at 6:00 and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7. It also repeats next week at the same times. Here's the lineup of top-notch guests:


Locker Talk Guests for Nov 23/16
Co-host: Mitchell Blair


1. A post mortem on the 2016 season for the University of Regina women’s soccer team. Guest: Bob Maltman (Head Coach).

2. The Luther Lions celebrate a third straight city 2A girls high school soccer championship. Guests: Orisha Greschner & Lola Olukayode (Lions players).

3. The high school wrestling season gets underway soon, with the O’Neill Titans shooting for a fifth straight city championship. Guests: Rob Nelson (Head Coach), Nicholas Zimroz & Sara Tokarz (Titans wrestlers).

4. The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie/television reviewer Carlo Palazzo is back with his thoughts on another offering from the sports genre. This time: Pitch .

5. The Leboldus Golden Suns celebrate a city championship – and provincial silver medal – in 5A boys volleyball. Guests: Lucas Turchet & Marcus Roflik (Suns players).

6. A post mortem on the 2016 season for the University of Regina cross country team. Guest: Adam Strueby (Can West bronze medallist).

7. Ringside. Our monthly look at what’s happening in the world of amateur and professional boxing. Guest: Frank Fiacco (Lonsdale Boxing Club President)

8. The Blair Necessities. Locker Talk’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for November 16

Another star-studded lineup of guests this week (a necessity, to make up for the mediocrity of the hosts)! As per usual, the show airs tonight at 6:00 and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina.
 
Locker Talk Guests for Nov 16/16
Co-host: Mitchell Blair 
  
1) The Miller Marauders celebrate a city 3A high school football championship. Guests: Jackson Sombach (DB), Brayden Long (RB), Chad Churylo (OL) & Luke Hornung (QB).
  
2) The Leboldus Golden Suns celebrate a fifth straight city and provincial 4A high school football championship. Guests: Noah Dheilly (SB) & Dillon Zimmermann (Safety).
  
3) The Sun Devils celebrate a Regina Minor Football bantam championship. Guests: Mitchell Drozda & Devon Taylor (Assistant Coaches), Jaxon Rabak (RB) & Jon Baht (QB).
  
4) A preview of Hostile Games, the November card put on in Regina by High Impact Wrestling. Guest: Jacob Creed (Wrestler).
  
5) Another busy curling season is well underway across Saskatchewan, as teams jockey for position heading into play downs in the New Year. Guest: Ashley Howard (Executive Director, CurlSask).
  
6) A profile of the University of Regina women’s volleyball team. Guest: Shane Smith (Interim Head Coach).
  
7) The Blair Necessities. Locker Talk’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, November 09, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for November 9

Here's the lineup for this week's show, airing tonight at 6:00 and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina. Tune in, as we make Access great again!

Locker Talk Guests for Nov 9/16
Co-host: Mitchell Blair


1. A post mortem on the 2016 season for the Regina Thunder junior football club. Guests: Brent Glen (Defensive Coordinator) & Taylor Mayer (Defensive Back).

2. The Campbell Tartans celebrate city and provincial championships in high school boys 3A soccer. Guests: Saif Waseem & Haris Imran (Tartans players).

3. The O’Neill Titans celebrate a city championship in high school girls 3A soccer. Guests: Caley Schneider & Gracie Anderson (Titans players).

4. Locker Talk Fitness File. For November. With host Daniel Ince (Driven Lifestyle Group).

5. The Griffins celebrate a second straight Regina Minor Football pee wee championship. Guests: Steve Day (Head Coach), Brennan Horvath & Hayden Day (Griffins Players).

6. The Blair Necessities. Locker Talk’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, November 02, 2016

Locker Talk sports commentary - week of November 2

In case you care to read along or something, here's the text of this week's Locker Talk commentary (written and performed by yours truly in Mitch's absence) on Access 7:



We said goodbye to an old friend on the weekend.

She was tired, worn out, and had quite simply given us as much as she had to give. There really was nothing left.  No, I’m not talking about a beloved family member or pet, although the level of affection might be comparable for some people.

I’m speaking of Mosaic Stadium/Taylor Field, which hosted its final Saskatchewan Roughrider home game this past weekend.

The game itself was a snore fest, which might actually seem appropriate, given the performance of the home team the past couple of seasons. But the farewell ceremonies, held to bid adieu to the old grey gal, were first rate.

Now, I have to admit, I’m not the sort to get sentimental when stadiums and arenas are mothballed. I’m more interested in preserving the memories of the people and the events. 

The actual facility? Not that big a deal, at least not for me. But, I’ll give credit where credit is due. Taylor Field was not just another stadium.

Let’s be clear. It was a dump. But it was OUR dump, darn it! And in many ways, it was the perfect symbol for the CFL team that called it home.

It wasn’t fancy. There weren’t a lot of first class amenities. It leaked in spots. It had cracks in the foundation and probably hit its best before date sometime in the 1970s.

But, somehow – with some ingenuity and generous amounts of duct tape – it got the job done. Not unlike the Riders themselves.

Let’s face it. Professional football isn’t supposed to exist, never mind thrive, in a market this size. But somehow, some way, the team found a way to hang on until the latest golden era began about a decade ago.

Now, with record profits and unprecedented on field success – apart from the past couple of years – the time is right to move into a new home which better suits a team that has become a model CFL franchise.

Sure, some people will miss the old stadium and the ghosts that haunt the place.

But I say hang onto those memories, and enjoy the ride as we start making new memories in Mosaic 2.0 next June.

Locker Talk lineup for November 2

We're back with a brand new episode of Locker Talk this week, spotlighting various teams from the University of Regina. Our congenial co-host, being a huge Cubs fan, was unavailable - so we brought in the lovely and luminescent Carlo Palazzo to pinch hit. Baseball reference...World Series...that's quality writing right there.


Anyway, here's the lineup for this week's show, airing tonight at 6:00 and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina.

Locker Talk Guests for Nov 2/16
Co-host: Carlo Palazzo


1. A profile of the University of Regina men’s hockey team. Guest: Todd Johnson (Head Coach).

2. A profile of the University of Regina men’s basketball team. Guests: Sam Hillis (Guard) & Alex Igual (Guard).

3. A profile of the University of Regina women’s basketball team. Guest: Dave Taylor (Head Coach).

4. Access 7 Sports Plays of the Month. For October.

5. Regina’s Outdoor Hockey League is gearing up for another season, and organizers are looking for donations of used equipment – particularly skates. Guest: Amanda McConnell (Program Manager, Ehrlo Sport Venture Programs).

6. For Pete’s Sake! The weekly Locker Talk sports commentary.


Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for October 19

Here's the lineup for this week's show. We're not taping a show next week, so this will be the lineup for next week's show as well. In both cases, the show airs Wednesday night at 6:00 and Saturday at noon. Special thanks to Drew Dalby from 104.9 The Wolf for filling in while yours truly recovers from a nasty little flu bug!


Locker Talk Guests for Oct 19/16
Hosts: Mitchell Blair & Drew Dalby


1. The Thunderbirds celebrate a Regina Minor Football atom division championship. Guests: Tyler Lloyd (Head Coach), Peter Boersch (Running back), Tayen Lloyd (Defensive End) & Jaxon Skiftun (QB).

2. A preview of the national U18 women’s hockey championship tournament coming to Regina in November. Guests: Deana Gelinas (Team Sask coach) & Jenna McLean (Team Sask player).

3. Ringside. Our monthly look at what’s happening locally and globally in the sport of boxing. Guest: Frank Fiacco. (Lonsdale Boxing Club President).

4. A profile of the University of Regina women’s hockey team. Guests: Alexis Larson (Defence) & Bailey Braden (Forward).

5. The Regina Pat Canadians are riding high atop the standings in the Saskatchewan midget AAA hockey league. Guests: Darrin McKechnie (Coach), Tylor Ludwar (Defenceman) & Matthew Chekay (Forward).

6. A preview of the Monster Brawl, the annual Hallowe’en extravaganza put on by High Impact Wrestling in Regina. Guest: Shaun Moore (Wrestler – tag team champ).

7. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for October 12

Here is the lineup for this week's show, airing tonight at 6:00 and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina. We have a little bit of everything on this week's show. Enjoy!


Locker Talk Guests for Oct 12/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair


1) A profile of the Regina Silver Foxes junior B hockey club. Guests: Scott Simpkins (Director of Player Personnel), Drew Kocur (Forward) & Taylor Neustaeter (Forward).

2) The Traveland RV (Pilot Butte) Storm junior B hockey club hopes to climb back to the top of the PJHL south division standings this season. Guests: Karl McNish (Coach) & Taylor Hoedel (Team Captain).

3) The Johnson Wildcats football program is on the rise, climbing to first place in the RIFL’s 3A Saip division. Guests: Jason Janssen (Head Coach), Stephen Woit (QB), James Halerimana (RB) & Kaleb Desjarlais (DB).

4) Locker Talk Fitness File. October edition. With host Daniel Ince (Driven Lifestyle Group).

5) A group of Regina athletes competed in the Spartan Race World Championships earlier this month. Let’s find out how they did! Guests: Clay Bakke, Nick Dalrymple and Cynthia Fiori (Spartan Racers).

6) A preview of Saturday Night Fights 12, the latest MMA event coming to Regina on November 12. Guests: AJ Scales (Promoter) and Robb Rennebohm (Competitor).

7) The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, October 05, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for October 5

Here's the lineup for this week's show, airing tonight at 6:00 and repeating Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina. We were up against the Blue Jays/Orioles game while taping the show last night, so an extra special thanks to the guests who showed up!
 
Locker Talk Guests for Oct 5/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair 
  
 
1) The University of Regina Rams are poised to take a run at only the second Canada West championship in team history. Guests: Mitch Picton (Receiver) and Danny Nesbitt (Linebacker).
  
2) The Extreme Hockey Regina Capitals junior B hockey club gears up for the Prairie Junior Hockey League season. Guest: Jeff McPherson (General Manager).
 
3) Access 7 Sports Plays of the Month. For September.
  
4) A look ahead to the 2016/17 season for the Regina Speed Skating Club. Guests: Bill Christ (Coach) & Brianne Cipywnyk (Skater)
  
5) The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for September 28

This will easily be our finest episode of the week! The show airs tonight at 6:00 on Access channel 7 in Regina, and repeats Saturday at noon. Here is the lineup of tremendous guests:


Locker Talk Guests for Sept 28/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair


1) The Regina Pats are poised to take a run at their first WHL championship in a long, long time this season. Guest: Todd Lumbard (Team President).

2) A preview of the Regina Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremonies on October 6th. Guests: Frank Kovacs (Hall of Fame President) & Glen Fekula (2016 Inductee).

3) A preview of the Football Day in Saskatchewan festivities on October 1st, featuring the first game in the new Mosaic Stadium in Regina. Guest: Mike Thomas (Football Saskatchewan Director of Operations).

4) The Film Room. Locker Talk’s intrepid sports movie reviewer Carlo Palazzo is back with his thoughts on another cinematic classic. This time: The Water Boy.

5) The Queen City Basketball Academy is accepting registrations for the fall and winter seasons. Guests: Andrew Gottselig (QCBA President), Kaden Thompson & Christian Heinrichs (Players).

6) A profile of the Regina Rebels female midget AAA hockey club. Guests: Mike Merk (Head Coach), Kennedy Bobyck (Rebels forward) & Chantal Burke (Rebels goalie). 

7) The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for September 21

We've prepared another action-packed episode for your viewing pleasure this week! As per usual, the show can been seen tonight at 6:00 and Saturday at noon. Here's the lineup.

Locker Talk Guests for Sept 21/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair



1. The injury bug has bitten the Regina Thunder junior football club…hard. Can they fight through it to reach the PFC final? Guests: Stefan Endsin (Thunder Offensive Coordinator) & Sawyer Buettner (Thunder QB).

2. The Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame gets set to host its 50th anniversary gala this weekend. Guest: Autumn McDowell (Communications Coordinator).  

3. Ringside. Locker Talk’s monthly look at what’s happening locally and globally with the “sweet science” of boxing. Guest: Frank Fiacco (Lonsdale Boxing Club President).

4. The 2016/17 high school athletics season is in full swing in Regina. Guest: Angela Tillier (RHSAA Commissioner).  

5. An update on the University of Regina Cougar women’s softball team. Guest: Ian Boire (Assistant Coach).  

6. A profile of the University of Regina Cougars ultimate (frisbee) team, getting set to host the regional CIS championships this weekend. Guests: Demitri Hofer & Miranda Murray (Cougars players)

7. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary. 

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for September 14

Yes, we're back. Apologies to those who hoped otherwise! Our second show of the new broadcast season taped last night, and airs at 6 pm today and at noon on Saturday on Access channel 7 in Regina. Please enjoy responsibly. :)  Here's the lineup:

Locker Talk Guests for Sept 14/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair 
  
1) The high school football program at Martin Collegiate is up and running again, after several years in mothballs. Will the Monarchs rule in 2016? Guests: Blaine Pearce (Monarchs Head Coach), Harrison Rempel & Daud Riaz (Monarchs players).

2) Locker Talk Fitness File. For September. With hosts Daniel Ince & Michelle Espino (Driven Lifestyle Group).
  
3) The organizers of the annual Swervin’ Mini Indy charity fundraiser have launched a second event, the Race for Recovery, coming up September 25th in Regina. Guests: Merv Armstrong (Event Organizer) & Julius Brown (Canadian Mental Health Association).
   
4) The LeBoldus Golden Suns are gunning for a 5th straight city and provincial 4A high school football championship this year. Guests: Brian Wirachowsky & Krestin Thera (Golden Suns players).
  
5) The O’Neill Titans will not repeat as city 3A high school football champs in 2016. That's because the Titans have moved up into the 4A conference this year. How will they fare against the “big boys”? Guests: Jake Paczko, Matt Grohs & Nathan Gold (Titans Captains). 
  
6) The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for June 21

It's the Locker Talk season finale! No cliffhangers, just lots of great guests to take us into the summer hiatus. We'll be back with more in September. Until then, here is this week's lineup. The show aired last night and will repeat Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina. Also available On Demand for those who miss it, or want to see it again!


Locker Talk Guests for June 21/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

 

1. Regina gets set to host the national juvenile team handball championships this summer. Guests: Rob Nelson (Team Sask Coach), Matt Grohs & Jasmine Kamboz (Team Sask Players).

2. A preview of the 2016 Regina Thunder training camp. Guests: Kevin Pierce (Assistant Coach – RBs and STs) & Ethan Hautz (Thunder RB).

3. A preview of the 2016 University of Regina Rams training camp. Guests: Nathan Cugnet (Rams OL) & Bryce McKinnon (Rams DL).

4. A former University of Regina athlete takes on the role of interim Athletic Director at the university. Guest: Tanya Reynoldson (U of R Interim Athletic Director).

5. The Regina Youth Flag Football League played host to members of the NFL’s Chicago Bears. Our Access 7 cameras were there. Reporter: Mitchell Blair.

6. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for June 14

It's the second last show of the season! Tell the truth, you're gonna miss us. A little bit?

Anyway, here's the lineup for this week's show. It airs tonight at 9:00 and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina.


Locker Talk Guests for June 14/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair


1. A look back at some of the highlights of the 2015/16 Regina high school athletic season. Guest: Angela Tillier (RHSAA Commissioner).

2. The Baseball Canada junior (21U) national championships are coming back to Regina this summer. Guests: Wendy Mitchell (Event Chair) & Rod Palanuik (Regina Optimist Baseball President).

3. The Regina Riot will take on their arch-rivals from Saskatoon in the WWCFL conference finals this weekend. Guests: Ashley Bisskey (Riot OL) & Olivier Eddie (Offensive Coordinator).

4. The Regina Lawn Bowling Club gets set to host its second annual fundraiser for KidSport Saskatchewan. Guest: Ernie Meid (Event Organizer).

5. The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie reviewer Carlo Palazzo drops in to offer his thoughts on another cinematic classic. This time: The Express.

6. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Tuesday, June 07, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for June 6

Here's the lineup for this week's star-studded extravaganza! The show airs tonight at 9:00 and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina. We may not get nominated for awards, but our guests usually make for some interesting viewing!


Locker Talk Guests for June 6/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair



1. The Riffel Royals celebrate a Regina high school track and field team championship. Guests: Nancy Lamb (Head Coach), Matt Exner & Vaughn Taylor (Royals athletes).

2. Fitness File. The June/summer edition. With hosts Daniel Ince & Michelle Espino (Driven Lifestyle Group).

3. Access 7 Sports Plays of the Month. For May. 

4. A pair of Regina high school football stars get set to travel to China to represent Canada at the world U19 championships. Guests: Mason Nyhus (Team Canada QB) & Nick Cross (Team Canada LB).

5. Ringside. June edition. Remembering “The Greatest.” Guest: Frank Fiacco (Lonsdale Boxing Club President).

6. A preview of Evolution, the High Impact Wrestling June event in Regina. Guest: Brett Evans (Wrestler).

7. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, June 01, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for May 31

Here's the lineup for this week's show. It aired last night on Access channel 7 in Regina, and will hit the airwaves again Saturday at noon. Enjoy!

Locker Talk Guests for May 31/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

 
1. An update on the growth of the Martin Collegiate high school Sports Academy. Guests: Kim Perepeluk (Academy Coordinator), Blair McDowell & Alex Kannok (Student/Athletes).

2. The Regina Youth Flag Football League will host members of the Chicago Bears organization next month. Guest: Mike Thomas (RYFFL Commissioner).

3. The sport of cricket continues to grow in Regina, and across Saskatchewan. Guests: Rana Imran & Manjeet Singh (Regina Cricket Association).

4. The Regina Red Sox are looking to climb back to the top of the WMBL standings in 2016. Guests: Mitch MacDonald (Head Coach) & John Nunnally (Red Sox outfielder).

5. A review of the first weekend of Regina Auto Racing Club action at King’s Park Speedway, and a look ahead to highlights of the summer racing schedule. Guests: Stacey Getz (RARC President) & Brittany Hayden (Driver).

6. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Locker Talk Lineup for May 17

I've been remiss in my posting duties the last couple of weeks. My apologies! Anyway, here's the lineup for this week's show, which aired last night and will repeat Saturday at noon on Access channel 7. Once again, Mitch and Carlo hosted the proceedings while I tried to whip my RMF spring league team's offensive line into shape!


Locker Talk Guests for May 17/16
Hosts: Mitchell Blair & Carlo Palazzo



1. The Pile O’ Bones Roller Derby Club has launched another action-packed season. Guests: Robyn Betker (Derby name: Ruby Rawbones) & Cassie Olson (Derby name:Dolly Hardon).

2. The Regina Red Sox open their 2016 training camp this week. Guest: Mitch MacDonald (Head Coach).

3. Ringside. May edition. Guest: Frank Fiacco (Lonsdale Boxing Club).

4. A preview of the 2016 Regina Highland Games, featuring the very popular heavy event competition. Guest: Jason Johnston (Organizer/Heavy Events Competitor). 

5. The O’Neill Titans capture a 9th straight city high school badminton team championship. Guests: Trang Dong & Sara Kowalski (Girls doubles champs – O’Neill). 

6. A preview of the Saturday Night Fights 11 mixed martial arts card coming up in Regina this month. Guests: AJ Scales (Promoter) & Adam Wayne (Competitor).

7. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for April 26

Here's the lineup for this week's show, airing tonight at 9:00 and Saturday at noon. As an extra enticement for you, I won't be on this week - my football coaching duties require me to miss tonight's taping. Great guests, no requirement to look at me...what more do you want?

Locker Talk Guests for April 26/16
Hosts: Mitchell Blair & Carlo Palazzo



1. Team Saskatchewan celebrates a national championship in wheelchair curling. Guests: Darwin Bender (Team Saskatchewan Skip) & Marie Wright (Team Saskatchewan Third).

2. The Regina Riot training camp is underway, as the team shoots for a second straight WWCFL championship. Guest: Emma Hicks (General Manager).

3. The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie aficionado Carlo Palazzo offers his thoughts on another cinematic classic. This time: Ready to Rumble.

4. Registrations are being accepted for the 2nd annual Don’t Stop Ballievin’ Dodgeball Extravaganza in support of CityKidz Regina. Guests: Donna West & Derek Robinson (CityKidz Regina). 

5. A preview of Spring Meltdown, the annual card put on by High Impact Wrestling in Regina. It’s also the final HIW TV taping of the season for Access 7. Guest: Wavell Starr (Wrestler).

6. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Locker Talk Lineup for April 19

Here is the star-studded lineup for this week's show, which aired following the Regina Pats game last night on Access 7. Missed it? Not a problem, it will air again Saturday at noon - and Access customers can also catch it via the On Demand menu in the weeks to come.


Locker Talk Guests for April 19/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair 



1. Fresh off their Florida mini-camp, the Riders make final preparations for training camp in five weeks. Guest: Murray McCormick (Leader Post Rider correspondent).

2. Locker Talk Fitness File. For April. With hosts Daniel Ince and Michelle Espino (Driven Lifestyle Group).

3. The Highland Curling Club will hold its first annual fundraising dinner in June, featuring guest speaker Russ Howard. Guest: Derek Boe (Dinner Chair).

4. Organizers are looking for volunteers to help run the 2016 World Broomball Championships in Regina this fall. Guests: Don Black (Event Chair) & Stacey Silzer (Sask Broomball Association Executive Director). 

5. King’s Park Speedway has another summer of exciting racing action planned. Guest: Stacey Getz (Regina Auto Racing Club President).

6. A review of the 2016 WCP Cup indoor soccer tournament from the perspective of the U21 boys champs, team Sudan. Guests: Jalal Elmardi (Coach), Shedrek Samuel, Amir Adam & Sak Dafala (Players).

7. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Locker Talk Lineup for April 12

Here's this week's lineup. The show aired Tuesday night and will repeat Saturday at noon. It will also be available via Access' On Demand menu.

Locker Talk Guests for April 12/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair 


1. Golf course operators and golfers are anxiously awaiting the official start of the 2016 golf season in the Regina area. Guest: Bryan Raymond (Flowing Springs Golf Greens).

2. The Campbell Tartans celebrate a third straight city 5A senior girls basketball championship. Guests: Paige Jeannot, Quinn Anderson & Emma Colin (Tartans Players).

3. The LeBoldus Golden Suns make history with their fourth straight provincial 5A senior boys basketball championship. Guests: Brayden Kuski (Guard) & Mike Mutschler (Guard)

4. Regina gets set to host the Keystone Cup, the Western Canada junior B hockey championship. Guests: Rob Crone (Tournament Chair) & Jeff McPherson (Regina Capitals - host team - GM).

5. Ringside. A look at the world of local, provincial, national and international boxing. Guest: Frank Fiacco (Lonsdale Boxing Club President). 

6. The Queen City Basketball Academy is accepting registrations for the summer season. Guests: Andrew Gottselig (Executive Director), Brody Rose & Josh Robertson (Players).

7. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Thursday, April 07, 2016

Locker Talk Lineup for April 5

Here's the lineup for this week's show. It aired Tuesday night and will repeat Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina.

Locker Talk Guests for April 5/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair


1. A post mortem on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina track and field team. Guests: Arthur Ward & Connor Bloom (Cougar track athletes).

2. A chat with the new executive director of Saskatchewan’s curling governing organization. Guest: Ashley Howard (CurlSask Executive Director).

3. Access 7 Sports Plays of the Month. For March.

4. A post mortem on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina women’s basketball team. Guest: Dave Taylor (Head Coach).

5. An update on the 2016 World Class Players (WCP) Cup indoor soccer tournament. Guests: Sarah Novak (Team Scotland) & Dave Calavel (Team Canada).

6. The O’Neill Titans celebrate their fourth straight city high school boys and girls wrestling team championships. Guests: Sara & Paul Tokarz (O’Neill wrestlers). 

7. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

8. The Regina Pats get set to take on the Red Deer Rebels in the second round of the WHL playoffs. Guest: Todd Lumbard (Pats President)

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Locker Talk Lineup for March 15

Another award-winning episode hit the Access 7 airwaves last night. Missed it? No problem, it'll air again Saturday at noon. And repeat a few more times over the next couple of weeks, as our next new episode won't be taped until April 5th. So, enjoy!

Locker Talk Guests for March 15/16
Co-Host: Carlo Palazzo


1. The University of Regina Rams select a former junior Rams player as the team’s new head coach. Guest: Stephen Bryce (Rams head coach).

2. A preview of the 2016 Don Narcisse All-Star Football Camp. Guest: Don Narcisse (Camp Director – Rider legend).

3. A preview of the 2016 Battle of the Prairies amateur boxing event, put on by the Lonsdale Boxing Club. Guest: Frank Fiacco (Lonsdale Club President). 

4. Locker Talk Fitness File. For March. With hosts Daniel Ince & Michelle Espino (Driven Lifestyle Group).

5. A preview of Pedal to the Metal, the April 1st card and Access 7 tv taping put on by High Impact Wrestling in Regina. Guests: Alexander Prime & Brett Evans (Wrestlers). 

6. For Pete’s Sake. Pete’s sports commentary.

7. A post mortem on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina men’s basketball team. Guest: Steve Burrows (head coach).

Wednesday, March 09, 2016

Locker Talk Lineup for March 8

Here's this week's lineup. The show aired last night, and will hit the Access 7 airwaves again Saturday at noon. It will also be available via Access' On Demand menu.

Locker Talk Guests for March 8/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair


1. A post-mortem on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina men’s volleyball team. Guest: Matt Lueck (Graduating player). 

2. A post-mortem on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina women’s volleyball team. Guest: Tori Glynn (Graduating player).

3. A post-mortem on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina men’s and women’s swim team. Guests: Noah Choboter (CIS double gold medalist) & Lexy King (women’s swimmer). 

4. A post-mortem on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina wrestling team. Guest: Kristine Longeau (CIS bronze medalist).

5. A post-mortem on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina women’s hockey team. Guests: Carleen Meszaros (Cougars defenseman – graduating) & Emma Waldenberger (Cougars forward).

6. A post-mortem on the 2015/16 season for the Regina Rebels female midget AAA hockey club. Guests: Deana Gelinas (Head Coach) & Kennedy Bobyck (Rebels forward).

7. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Wednesday, March 02, 2016

Locker Talk Lineup for March 1

Another epic broadcast has been released to the masses! The show aired last night on Access channel 7 in Regina, and will repeat Saturday at noon. As always, it will also be available via Access' On Demand menu. Here's the lineup:

Locker Talk Guests for March 1/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair



1. Baseball Regina is looking forward to the 2016 baseball season. Guest: Leo MacDonald (Board Member).

2. Access 7 Sports Plays of the Month. For February.

3. Registrations are already pouring in for the 2016 Saskatchewan Credit Unions Queen City Marathon in September. Guest: Shawn Weimer (Race Director).

4. A look at the latest craze for fitness enthusiasts: Spartan racing. Guest: Riley Nadoroznick (Owner, Conviction Fitness & author).

5. A post-mortem on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina men’s hockey team. Guests: Brock Appleyard & Sanfred King (Cougars forwards). 

6. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary. 

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Locker Talk Lineup for February 23

Here's the lineup for this week's show. It aired last night and will hit the Access 7 airwaves again Saturday at noon. It will also be available via the On Demand menu.

Locker Talk Guests for February 23/16
Co-Host: Carlo Palazzo


1. The Leboldus Golden Suns celebrate a second straight Luther Invitational high school basketball (LIT) championship, and now take aim at a fourth straight city and provincial senior boys title. Guests: Ben Hillis (Guard) & Carter Millar (Forward).

2. 2016 promises to be another busy year for Regina Minor Football. Guest: Kelly Hamilton (RMF President). 

3. Football Saskatchewan is also gearing up for a busy spring and summer. Guest: Mike Thomas (Director of Operations).

4. The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie reviewer Carlo Palazzo reviews another sports cinema classic. This time: Lucky Number Slevin.

5. A pair of Regina high school football stars represented Canada at the recent International Bowl competition in the U.S. Guests: Mason Nyhus (QB-Riffel Royals) & Kyle Borsa (RB-Riffel Royals).

6. For Pete's Sake. Pete’s sports commentary.

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for February 16

Here is this week's lineup. The show aired last night on Access 7 in Regina, and will repeat Saturday at noon. It will also be available via Access' On Demand menu. Enjoy!

Locker Talk Guests for February 16/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

 
1. A new book called “Giving Us a Sporting Chance: The Story of Sask Sport” chronicles the history of the province’s governing body for amateur sport. Guests: Lynn Gidluk (Author) & Cas Pielak (SaskSport Past President).

2. A preview of the annual Regina Thunder fundraising dinner and an update on preparations for the 2016 junior football season. Guests: Brin Werrett (Team President) & Brent Glen (Defensive Coordinator).

3. A preview of Queen City Coronation, the professional mixed martial arts card coming to Regina in March. Guest: Charmaine “Not So Sweet” Tweet (fighter).

4. Former NHLer, and sex abuse victim, Sheldon Kennedy will be the keynote speaker at an event put on in Regina in March by the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan. Guests: Anita Hopfauf & Anthony Elsom (Schizophrenia Society).

5. A preview of Resurgence, the February card and Access 7 tv taping, put on by High Impact Wrestling in Regina. Guest: Alexander Prime (Wrestler). 

6. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

7. Locker Talk Fitness File. For February. With hosts Daniel Ince & Michelle Espino (Driven Lifestyle Group).

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for February 9

Here's the lineup for this week's show on Access 7 in Regina. It aired last night, and will repeat Saturday at noon. It will also be available through Access' On Demand menu.

Locker Talk Guests for February 9/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair


1. An update on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina men’s basketball team. Guests: Brandon Tull & Sam Hillis (Cougar guards).

2. A preview of the 64th annual Luther Invitational high school basketball tournament. Guests: Brock Lumbard (Luther senior boys basketball player) & Angela Bongamin (Luther senior girls basketball player).

3. An update on the 2015/16 season for the Regina Pat Canadians midget AAA hockey club. Guests: Darrin McKechnie (Head Coach), Tanner McKechnie & Thomas Goldade (players).

4. Regina youngsters aged 2-12 are being introduced to the sport of rugby via Regina Mini Rugby. Registration is now open. Guests: Dave Hamilton (Coach) & Kye Hamilton (player). 

5. A former U of R Rams star is hoping for an injury-free second season in the CFL. Guest: Addison Richards (Winnipeg Blue Bomber receiver).

6. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

7. The CFL free agency period is upon us. Will the Riders be actively pursuing veteran free agents in restocking their roster? Guest: Rob Vanstone (Leader Post Sports Coordinator).

Tuesday, February 02, 2016

Locker Talk lineup for February 2

Here's the lineup for this week's show on Access 7 in Regina. It airs tonight at 9:00 and Saturday at noon. Not sure if there's a great demand for me to resume posting these, but what the heck!

Locker Talk Guests for February 2/16
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

 
  1. A Regina skip celebrates her first provincial women’s curling championship. Guests: Jolene Campbell (skip) & Ashley Howard (third).
  2. A profile of the University of Regina track and field team. Guests: Joy Becker & Liam Nystuen (Cougar track athletes).
  3. An update on the 2015/16 season for the Traveland RV Pilot Butte Storm Junior B hockey club. Guest: Cohen Yano (Storm forward).
  4. Access 7 Sports Plays of the Month. For January.
  5. An update on the 2015/16 season for the University of Regina women’s basketball team. Guests: Sidney Dobner (Guard) & Mykaela Kleisinger (Guard).
  6. A profile of the Regina Speed Skating Club. Guests: Bill Christ (Head Coach) & Kali Ann Friesen (Skater). 
  7. The Blair Necessities.  Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.




Friday, January 22, 2016

Prayers for La Loche

I'm not a politician, nor do I aspire to be one. I'm not usually one to climb atop a soapbox (unless the subject is the Green Bay Packers), but I'm having a hard time processing the events in La Loche today without feeling a combination of sadness, frustration and anger.

First, of course deepest sympathies go out to the people of La Loche, particularly those directly impacted by today's tragic events. The rest of us are rightfully shocked and sympathetic, but those feelings will diminish as we return to daily life in Regina, Ottawa and elsewhere. Here's the problem: I firmly believe the school shooting in La Loche is more than a terrible tragedy. It's a cry for help.

I've never been to La Loche. In fact, I've only spent one day out of my entire life in the northern part of this province. But, I've been privy to a fair bit of information about the situation up there. What happened today isn't a gun control issue. It isn't necessarily a political issue. It's more. Way, way more.

Suffice it to say our northern communities are no strangers to high rates of poverty, crime, substance abuse, violence and teen suicide (triple the per capita numbers of anywhere else in the province). And this isn't solely a Saskatchewan problem. Similar scenarios are playing out in northern communities across Canada.

So, what's being done about it? To be fair, governments have tried and continue to try. Cross ministerial and cross jurisdictional consultations have happened and programs have been launched. All the stakeholders have been invited to the table. But still, the pain continues. And it's not going away anytime soon.

Part of the problem is we're talking about a small and geographically spread out population base in the north. It's easy to forget about them while enjoying a glass of chardonnay in Wascana View or Lakeview. Small populations also don't carry a lot of votes. Then, have you ever tried to get politicians and/or bureaucrats from various levels of government to agree on anything? Good luck with that. And there's also a very real distrust of government types from "down south" within northern communities.

So, what's the answer? Lord, I wish I knew. But I do know that we all have a stake in this. (Trust me, when the powder keg goes off in the north, you'll feel it wherever you are.) We need to find solutions that are driven by the local communities. The people of La Loche and the north are the experts on what's happening in their backyards. Let's treat them like it.

But of course, solutions without resources behind them amount to lip service. And that's when the vicious cycle of distrust, despair and hopelessness is nurtured. Let's get everyone to the table (with chequebooks in hand), including the youth - especially the youth - and keep them there until some strategies are developed and committed to.

We have a new government in Ottawa. Let's see if Mr. Trudeau's "Sunny Ways" include the people of northern Saskatchewan. The mayor of La Ronge is running for the SaskParty government in the upcoming provincial election. Let's see if
Thomas Sierzycki can convince his colleagues to address the problem. Let's see if the NDP can hold the government to account on this issue. Let's encourage the people of the north to put aside their (well-earned!) distrust of the southern political machinery in order to build a brighter future for their communities.

For now, sympathy and compassion must rule the day. The Premier should visit the community. Tears will be shed and speeches will be made. But then, the real work must begin. 

Let's do something before another mother has to bury a son or daughter because someone saw the only solution available to them at the end of a gun barrel. Or a needle.

I'm going to borrow a hashtag from the Toronto Raptors NBA team. I think in this case it's also an expression of solidarity with our northern neighbours.

#WeTheNorth
#PrayersForLaLoche