Draft day in the 'dub

Here's the news releases from the Pats on their first two selections in today's WHL bantam draft:

Pats Select Stephenson in the 1st Round

Edmonton, Alberta – With their 1st pick, 5th overall, in the WHL Bantam Draft, the Regina Pats have selected Chandler Stephenson out of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

With the Saskatoon Generals this past season, Stephenson amassed 110 points in 46 games. His brother Colton Stephenson is a forward with the Edmonton Oil Kings

Regina Pats General Manager Brent Parker said “We’re thrilled to get Chandler, he is a skilled centre with great vision and a quick, accurate shot. He’s a great skater and competes hard every night.”

Player comparison – Doug Gilmour

C - Chandler Stephenson
5’9” 155 lbs.
Saskatoon, Sask.

08-09 Saskatoon Generals (Stn Bantam) GP-46 G-49 A-61 PTS-110 PIM-72
08-09 Saskatoon Blazers (SMAAAHL) GP-9 G-2 A-1 PTS-3 PIM-2

Blogger note: He better be fast, because he sure isn't big!


Pats Select Balog in the 2nd Round

Edmonton, Alberta – With their second pick, 28th overall, the Regina Pats selected forward Taylor Balog out of Kipling, Saskatchewan.

Balog played with the Weyburn Crescent Point Wings of the South Sask. Minor Hockey League this past season, and picked up 76 points in 26 games

Pats General Manager Brent Parker said “Balog is a big power forward, a great skater and has a hard shot.”

C – Taylor Balog
Born – April 21st, 1994
Shoots - Left
Hometown - Kipling, Sask.
6’1” 170 lbs.
Weyburn (SSMHL) GP-26 G-44 A-32 PTS-76 PIM-34

Blogger note: Some scouts had this kid rated in the first round. Could be a steal for the Pats. Plus, I think his grandparents sit right behind me at Rider games!

SportZone lineup for April 29

Here's the lineup for this week's show, featuring a visit from Rider royalty! The show airs Wednesday at 6 p.m. and Thursday at 3 p.m. on Access channel 7.

SportZone Guests for April 29/09
Community Co-Host: Corey Matthews

1. (U of R segment) A preview of the 2009 University of Regina Cougar Women’s Basketball fundraising breakfast. Guest: Dave Taylor (Head Coach).

2. (Sport/Leisure segment) A profile of Regina’s Wascana Racing Canoe Club, and its new/old Head Coach. Guest: Dave Robertson (WRCC Head Coach).

3. (U of R segment) Three University of Regina Rams hope to impress CFL scouts at the annual East-West Bowl game in May. Guests: Jordan Sisco (Rams receiver) & Nick Hutchins (Rams O-Lineman).

4. (Event profile) A preview of the 2009 Ken Goff Memorial Boxing Classic and Mayor’s Cup. Guest: Ken Ripplinger (Regina Boxing Club).

5. (Athlete profile) A conversation with one of the all-time greats in Saskatchewan Roughrider, and CFL, history. Guest: George Reed (Hall of Fame running back).

SportZone trivia: How many touchdowns did George Reed score in his 13-year CFL career? Email your answer, and your contact info, to sportzone@accesscomm.ca.

Weekend blogging

Various odds and ends after a couple days of roaming around town:

• I saw former Rider offensive lineman Fred Childress at the neighbourhood 7-11 yesterday. Does the "Big Chill" live here now?
• I saw a Ferrari in downtown Regina today. Fred Childress was never confused for a Ferrari during his playing days.
• Is it cruel to make a 10-year old do windsprints? What about if I do them with him?
• Spring sure is taking its sweet time getting here.
• The new Gold's Gym South is less of a sausage party than the old Court Club was.
• The London Knights bowed out to Windsor in five games in the OHL playoffs, with each game going to overtime.
  
• The Knights of 2009 remind me of the Regina Pats of 2001. Great team, shaky goaltending.
• It's time for Regina's Josh Harding to be a starting netminder in the NHL.
• Sean Avery will be playing senior hockey with Theo Fleury in two years. Maybe less.
• I will finally get to meet George Reed this week. How have I managed to live here this long, and dabble in the sports media, without meeting #34?
• I need some suggestions for putting on a bachelor party. Where to do it? How to line up the entertainment? Any advice will be gratefully accepted!
• And yes, I'm hoping the aforementioned social event will come with an "r" rating. Otherwise, what would be the point?
  

SportZone lineup for April 22

Here's the lineup for this week's show, airing Wednesday at 6 p.m. and Thursday at 3 p.m. on Access channel 7:

SportZone Guests for April 22/09
Community Co-Host: Corey Matthews

1. (Athlete profile) A former University of Regina Ram standout looks ahead to this second season in the CFL. Guest: Brendon LaBatte (Winnipeg Blue Bomber offensive lineman).

2. (Sport/Leisure segment) A profile of Regina’s Lakeshore Tennis Club, and a general discussion of tennis on the prairies. Guests: Randy Semenchuk (Lakeshore Tennis Club President).

3. (Team profile) A preview of the 2008 WHL bantam draft, from the perspective of the Regina Pats. Guest: Todd Ripplinger (Pats Director of Scouting).

4. (Event profile) A preview of the 2009 Saskatchewan lacrosse season. Guest: Dale Measner (Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association Executive Director).

5. (Sport/Leisure segment) A profile of the Wascana Freewheelers Bicycle Touring Club. Guests: Marion Perry & Hirsch Greenberg (Club Executive).

SportZone trivia: Who did the Pats select with their first pick, 17th overall, at last year's WHL bantam draft? Send your answer, and your contact information, to sportzone@accesscomm.ca.

Monday musings

It's best to clear the brain before starting a new work week, I suppose.

• Lots of people were disappointed in their quest for AC/DC tickets this weekend. This is what happens when major events come to town. Reginans should start getting used to it.
• From reading the on-line comments on the Leader-Post website, it would appear most disgruntled AC/DC fans are also quite illiterate. Not exactly shocking news, I suppose.
• Yes, I got my tickets. That doesn't make me smarter, just luckier.
• I'm going to more concerts in my 40's than I did for most of my 30's. I wonder if....oh, right. Disposable income.
• Man, I don't miss those radio paycheques!
• The London Knights blew a two goal lead in the third period and lost to Windsor in overtime on national tv yesterday. Ouch.
• The Spits lead that OHL conference final 2-1, with all three games decided in overtime.
• Out west, I'm wondering if anyone can stop the Calgary Hitmen? Doesn't look like it so far.
• Chuck Liddell is done as a UFC competitor. Too bad, so sad. The Iceman should walk away before he further tarnishes his legacy.
• The service at the Four Season's was BRUTAL for the UFC pay-per-view on Saturday night. The waitress forgot to order my food (WTF?), so it took over an hour to get nachos. And, no discount was offered for the inconvenience. Where is George finding these people?
• Speaking of the aforementioned nachos, I think it's time to end my long-term relationship with jalapeno peppers.
• I came to that conclusion when my stomach ordered me to get out of bed at 7:30 Sunday morning. Maybe we just need some time apart.
• Are the Toronto Blue Jays for real? I don't know, but I'm enjoying the ride while it lasts.
• Lord knows, sports fans in Toronto need something to get excited about!
• It pleases me to know the Montreal Canadians will be golfing by this time next week.
• I'm pleased to announce the atom Cougars have secured the services of John Makie Sr. as our full-time offensive coordinator this season. This is a significant offseason acquisition!

Friday thoughts

The usual - a random collection of thoughts and observations:

• My adopted NHL playoff team, the Chicago Blackhawks, looked a little overwhelmed in the early going against Calgary last night.
• The Hawks did manage to squeek by in overtime though. Was the winning goal a result of goaltender interference? In the regular season, yes. In regulation time in the playoffs, maybe. In overtime, nope.
• Don't look now, but Anaheim might just give the Sharks a run for their money. Game one goes to the Ducks.
• Minnesota is in the market for a new coach and a new GM. Will that affect Regina's Josh Harding's plans to leave the Wild, as he looks for an opportunity to compete for a starting netminder's job elsewhere?
• I guess I'll just have to ask Josh that myself during his annual postseaon appearance on SportZone.
• AC/DC tickets go on sale tomorrow morning. Wanna bet the system crashes?
• The RMF atom Cougars hold their first full-blown coaches meeting of the year this weekend. Can a dynasty be far behind?
• I suppose the other coaches will expect me to spring for pizza and beer, huh?
• The summer trip with the J-man to Ontario is scheduled, now we wait for a seat sale.
• Hmmm, I just noticed the Riders play in Toronto July 11th. I guess I know where we'll be that day!
• Time to get some work done. We can't all be on EDO's today! (said the guy who is working three straight four day weeks)

SportZone lineup for April 15

Here's the lineup for this week's show, airing tonight (Wednesday) at 6 p.m. and Thursday at 3 p.m. on Access channel 7:

SportZone Guests for April 15/09
Community Co-Host: Corey Matthews

1. (Sport/Leisure segment) A preview of the 2009 golf season, should it ever arrive! Guest: Brad Herridge (Assistant Pro, Tor Hill Golf Course).

2. (Event profile) A preview of the 2009 junior national racquetball championships in Regina. Guests: Ross Richardson (Sask. Racquetball Association) & Christine Richardson (Competitor).

3. (Team profile) A post mortem on the 2008/09 season for the Pilot Butte Storm of the PJHL. Guests: Dale Lewgood (General Manager) & Karl McNish (Assistant Coach).

4. (Event profile) A preview of the 2009 WCP Cup, Regina’s mini World Cup indoor soccer tournament. Guests: Ben Leung (Organizing Committee), Laura Stith & Jenna McCormick (Players).

5. (U of R segment) A post mortem on the 2008/09 athletic season for the University of Regina. Guest: Dick White (Athletic Director, U of R).

SportZone trivia: Who was named the 2008/09 Male Athlete of the Year at the University of Regina? Send your answer and your contact information to sportzone@accesscomm.ca

Friday thoughts

A Good Friday assortment of thoughts:

• I'm really quite ready for a four day weekend. And especially for a four day weekend with the J-man!
• If the weather cooperates, it should be time to bring the bikes out of storage. And the ball gloves. Good times!
  
• I finally got around to watching Slumdog Millionaire last night. It was very good, but it couldn't possibly live up to the hype.
• The slums of Mombai make north central Regina look almost ritzy in comparison.
• One more cup of coffee and I'm off to do some sweating at Gold's Gym. I may even workout too!
• Every word that ends in "s" does not require an apostrophe before the s. No problem, glad to help.
  
• I wish the Flames, Canucks and even (gulp) Habs well, but I'm going to be a Blackhawks fan for the 08/09 playoffs. Which is probably the kiss of death for Chicago.
• The Blue Jays are definitely going to score some runs this season. The problem is, they're going to give up lots of them too.
• Do I dare take a 10 year old to AC/DC? Other than the opening train sequence, there's really nothing overtly "adult" about the Black Ice concert.
• What's a good Easter dinner for a guy that can't cook and his little man? I'm going to have to come up with something!
• Enjoy your weekend. I'm out!
  

SportZone lineup for April 8

Here's the lineup for this week's show, sans co-host. As always, it airs Wednesday at 6 p.m. and Thursday at 3 p.m. on Access channel 7.

SportZone Guests for April 8/09

1. (Event Profile) Regina will play host to the 2010 Esso Cup, the first annual female midget AAA hockey championship. Guest: Kelly McClintock (Saskatchewan Hockey Association General Manager).

2. (Amateur sport segment) An update on a busy spring for Football Saskatchewan, including a preview of the 2009 Senior Bowl. Guest: Mike Thomas (Football Sask. Technical Director).

3. (Event profile) A preview of the Kids of Steel Icebreaker triathlon in Regina in May. Guest: Terry Hooper (Organizing Committee).

4. (U of R segment) A preview of the 2009 CFL draft, through the eyes of two prospective draftees from the University of Regina. Guests: Tamon George (Rams defensive back) & Stan van Sichem (Rams defensive lineman).

5. (U of R segment) A team from the University of Regina captures the gold medal at the CIS curling championships. Guests: Chris Busby (Skip) & Brad Wallin (Lead).

SportZone trivia: Name the two U of R Rams selected in the 2008 CFL draft. Email your answers, and your contact information, to sportzone@accesscomm.ca.

Monday musings

Another collections of odds and ends:

• Four more days until the four day weekend. Just four more days...
• The WWE soiled the sheets for the 25th anniversary of Wrestlemania last night. The Shaun Michaels vs Undertaker match was a classic. All the others were instantly forgettable.
• Yes, I watched Wrestlemania. And even drove to Moose Jaw to do so.
• The London Knights and Windsor Spitfires are headed for a battle of the titans in the OHL's western conference final. I wish I could watch!
• Ever tried shaving with a safety razor? Not easy to get the hang of!
• I loved watching Michigan State beat a cocky UConn team in the NCAA men's basketball semi-final. I think the Spartans will meet their match against North Carolina tonight, unfortunately.
• I wrote a speech that got the speaker a standing ovation this weekend! That's kind of cool.
• Looks like the J-man and I can dust off our ball gloves this week. That's a plus. Now, to find a dry patch of ground to play catch on!
• I'm starting to get an uneasy feeling that Dale Derkatch will be made the sacrificial lamb to appease disgruntled Regina Pats fans. I hope I'm wrong on that one.

Friday thoughts

Back from the dead after a couple of days off sick. Still feeling quite yucky though:

• I guess draft day won't be so quiet for the Saskatchewan Roughriders after all?
• Make no mistake, this week's trades were about re-stocking the cupboard with draft picks, plain and simple.
• If Jordan Rempel turns out to be a player, then that's a bonus.
• And if Adarius Bowman becomes a star in Winnipeg, the "I told you so" gang will be out in full force on the message boards.
• The 2009 Pete and Kelly Rockin' Roadtrip returns to Vancouver on October 28th to catch U2 in concert. I am pumped!
• Is there a flu bug going around? I'm getting tired of feeling tired! Two days in bed isn't as glamorous as it sounds!
• I'm leaning towards the Chicago Blackhawks as my NHL playoff team. Although I suspect they're a year away from being a legitimate contender.
• And then there's the Leafs. Sigh...
• We're off to Moose Jaw Sunday to catch Wrestlemania and devour many cheese-flavoured treats.
• Oh by the way, does anyone else consider Moose Jaw's new slogan (Surprisingly Unexpected) really, really lame?
• Aren't surprises generally unexpected? And aren't unexpected things usually a surprise? I'm just saying.

SportZone lineup - week of April 1st

Sorry for the delay, I've been in sick bay the last couple of days. Here's the lineup, in case Access rebroadcasts the show over the weekend. Check those Regina listings!

SportZone Guests for April 1/09
Community Co-Host: Corey Matthews

1. (Regina Sport Spotlight) Regina’s Harvest City Reapers celebrate a third straight provincial boy’s 1A high school basketball championship. Guests: Joel Wells (Head Coach), Aaron Cockerill & Garrett Peters (Players).

2. (U of R segment) A post mortem on the 2008/09 season for the University of Regina wrestling teams. Guests: Jade Parsons, Jasmine Slinn & Lisa McKibben (Wrestlers).

3. (High school segment) The Campbell Tartans celebrate a provincial boy’s 5A high school basketball championship. Guests: Skip Campbell (Head Coach), Dan Simaluk & Garrett Burgess (Players).

4. (Fitness/lifestyle segment) An introduction to the newest craze in the fitness world; kettle bell training. Guests: Ron & Kim Gonzales (Chi-Ki Enterprises).

SportZone trivia: In what year did the U of R last win a CIS team championship in wrestling? Send your answers, with your contact information, to sportzone@accesscomm.ca