Locker Talk Lineup for December 16

It's a highlight of the holiday season - the Christmas episode of Locker Talk! Here's the lineup for this week's show, which will hit the Yuletide airwaves at 9:00 tonight, and return to Access 7 Saturday at noon. It will also air several more times until our first show of 2015 airs on January 6.  Have a great and safe Christmas!

Locker Talk Guests for December 6/14 – Christmas Special
Co-Host: Carlo Palazzo

1. A mid-term report card on U of R athletics with the soon to be former Director of Athletics at the university. Guest: Dick White (U of R Athletics Director).  

2. A local athlete is drumming up support for her run at an Olympic berth in 2016. Guest: Eseroghene Omene (Aspiring Olympian, 400 metres).

3. A University of Regina Rams assistant coach is named the top volunteer coach in Canadian university football. Guest: Rick Seaman (Rams assistant coach).  

4. The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie aficionado Carlo Palazzo reviews another cinematic classic. This time: Gridiron Gang. 

5. Still looking for Christmas gift ideas for that hard-to-shop-for sports fan on your list? Look no further! Guest: Trent Herda (Owner, Legends Sports Memorabilia). 

6. Year in Review (panel). Our illustrious Locker Talk panel looks at the top local sports stories of 2014, and looks ahead to 2015. Guests: Mitchell Blair (620 CKRM radio) & Arielle Zerr (CBC Saskatchewan). 

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

Locker Talk Lineup for December 9

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 for Access cable customers via the On Demand service.

Locker Talk Guests for December 9/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair


1. The Campbell Tartans celebrate a second straight city high school senior girls volleyball championship. Guests: Barry Leibel (Head Coach), Emily Lenton & Jayda Watson (Tartans players/captains).

2. A preview of the 2014 Fekula Classic high school basketball tournament at Balfour Collegiate. Guests: Tanner Brightman (Balfour Senior Boys head coach/tournament organizer), Brady Reid & Kolton Bellamy (Balfour players).  

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

4.  The Winston Knoll Wolverines celebrate a high school senior boys city volleyball championship. Guests: Guy Kerbrat (Head Coach) & Jeph Maystruck (Assistant Coach).

5. Locker Talk Fitness File. Our hosts Daniel Ince and Michelle Espino return to offer some tips on making it through the holidays without packing on tonnes of weight! 

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

Locker Talk Lineup for November 25

Here's the lineup for this week's scintillating show. It airs tonight at 9:00 and Saturday at noon. If you miss those, you can always catch it after the fact through Access' On Demand service.

Locker Talk Guests for November 25/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. A profile of the University of Regina men’s basketball team. Guests: Brandon & Jonathan Tull (Cougars guards).  

2. A preview of the 2014 Grey Cup, and review of the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ 2014 season. Guest: Luc Mullinder (Football analyst – CKRM Radio).  

3. The Film Room. Our monthly movie review by Locker Talk sports movie aficionado Carlo Palazzo. This time: Ace Ventura, Pet Detective. 

4. Regina gets set to host the 22nd annual Female Hockey Challenge December 5-7. Guests: Cara Wickstrom (Event Co-Chair) & Makayla Wickstrom (Bantam AA Ravens goalie).  

5. A preview of King’s Challenge V, the High Impact Wrestling Card set for December 5th in Regina. Guests: Jacob Creed & Alexander Prime (Wrestlers).  

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

Locker Talk Lineup for November 11

Here's the lineup for this week's show. It hit the Access 7 airwaves last night, and will air again Saturday at noon. And of course, there's always the On Demand option for Access customers.

Locker Talk Guests for November 11/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. The Riders celebrate a Regina Minor Football pee wee division championship. Guests: Paul Harasen (Head Coach), TJ Owens (DE/K) & Aidan Mann (LB). 

2. The Renegades celebrate a Regina Minor Football bantam division championship. Guests: Kris Hadesbeck (Defensive Coordinator), Josh Donnelly (QB) & Jordan Bodnar (DL).

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

4. A post mortem on the 2014 season for the University of Regina Rams. Guest: Gary “Chop” Bresch (Access 7 Rams colour commentator).  

5. A preview of Crown Rules, the November High Impact Wrestling card in Regina. Guest: Wavell Starr (Wrestler).  

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

Locker Talk Lineup for November 4

Here's the lineup for this week's show - a tribute to high school athletics in Regina! The show aired last night at 9 pm and will hit the Access 7 airwaves again Saturday at noon. As always, it will also be available On Demand for Access customers.

Locker Talk Guests for November 4/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. A preview of the Regina 3A city high school football finals. Team #1 is the Luther Lions. Guests: Troy Casper (Head Coach) & John Lerach (OL/DL).  

2. An update on Regina’s newly opened Martin Academy, offering high performance sports training for high school athletes. Guests: Justin Eiswirth (Teacher/Baseball coach) & Kyle Angielski (Baseball catcher – grade 11).

3. A preview of the Regina 4A city high school football finals. Team #1 is the Leboldus Golden Suns. Guests: Nick Dheilly (OL/DL) & Matt Moore (OL/DL).  

4. A preview of the Regina 4A city high school football finals. Team #2 is the Campbell Tartans. Guests: Shaylin Pillay (RB) & Matt Douglas (DL).  

5. A preview of the Regina 3A city high school football finals. Team #2 is the O’Neill Titans. Guests: Jason Duczek (Head Coach) & Cordell Kadash (QB).  

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

Locker Talk Lineup for October 21

Here's the lineup for this week's show, airing tonight at 9 p.m. and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina.

Locker Talk Guests for October 21/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. F.W. Johnson Collegiate’s football team gets a much-needed shot in the arm from a big time corporate sponsor. Guests: Jason Janssen (Head Coach) Miles Kinvig (OL), Damian Boychuk (LB) & Domanik Ilijevski (QB).

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

3. A profile of the University of Regina men’s hockey team. Guests: Liam Brennan (F) & Jordan Reeve (D).

4. A preview of Monster Brawl, the October card being put on by High Impact Wrestling in Regina. Guest: Robbie Gamble (Wrestler).  

5. A post-mortem on the 2014 season for the Regina Thunder junior football club. Guest: Scott MacAulay (Head Coach).  

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

Locker Talk Lineup for October 7

Here's the lineup for this week's show. It airs tonight at 9:00 and Saturday at noon, then repeats next week in the same time slots. Enjoy!

Locker Talk Guests for October 7/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair
 

1. A profile of the Traveland RV Pilot Butte Storm junior B hockey club, the defending south division champs. Guests: Brad Schmidt (Head Coach) & Dale Lewgood (Team President/GM).  

2. The Griffins North celebrate a Regina Minor Football atom division championship. Guests: Terry Kuculum (Head Coach) & Players. Reporter: Pete Paczko. 

3. Regina gets set to host an Under 19 Western Canadian Water Polo Championship qualifying tournament in November. Guests: Dave Boan (Coach), Auriel Bill & Alex Dyck (Team Sask players). 

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

5. The O’Neill Titans are shooting for a fifth straight city 3A high school football championship. Guests: Jordan Tholl, Chris Busch & Devin Procyk. (Players).  

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

Locker Talk Lineup for September 30

Here's the lineup for this week's show, hitting the Access 7 airwaves tonight at 9:00 and Saturday at noon. Not a bad collection of guests, in our humble opinions!

Locker Talk Guests for September 30/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair


1. A preview of the 2014 Regina Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremonies coming up on October 16. Guests: Barry Taman (Hall of Fame President) & Karen Howard (2014 Inductee). 
 
2. An update on the 2014 season for the Regina Thunder junior football club. Guests: Taylor Garrett (DL) & Kasim Ocaya (WR).  

3. An update on the 2014/15 Regina Pats hockey club. Guest: Todd Lumbard (Pats President).  

4. The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie reviewer Carlo Palazzo is back this season to review more cinematic favourites. This time: When the Game Stands Tall. 

5. A profile of the University of Regina cross country team. Guests: Matt Johnson, Adam Strueby & Brynn Latimer (Cougars runners)  

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

Locker Talk Lineup for September 23

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

Locker Talk Guests for September 23/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. A look at the 2014/15 Regina high school athletic season. Guest: Angela Tillier (RHSAA Commissioner).  

2. A profile of the Regina Capitals junior B hockey club. Guests: Jeff McPherson (General Manager) & Erik Knudson (Head Coach).  

3. A profile of the Regina Silver Foxes junior B hockey club. Guests: Rob Dowie (Head Coach/GM), Brandon Munro & Kyle Mryglod (Players).  

4. The Regina Rebels are getting set to take a run at another provincial female midget AAA hockey title. Guests: Kim Perepeluk (Head Coach), Chelsea Perepeluk & Delaney Frey (Rebels Co-captains).   

5. University of Regina Rams head coach Frank McCrystal is into the final weeks of his tenure with the football team. Reporter: Pete Paczko. 

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

Locker Talk Lineup for September 16

Here's the lineup for this week's show. We were hoping to bring in a couple guests from the Regina Thunder to update you on their season, but...stuff happens.  The show airs tonight at 9 p.m. and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7.

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

1. The University of Regina women’s softball team is off to a strong start this season. Guest: Iain Boyre (Assistant Coach).   

2. The University of Regina women’s soccer team is shooting for a third straight playoff berth – a first in the history of the program. Guests: Molly Glass & Kayla McDonald (Cougars players). 

3. Regina's first disc golf course opens in Wascana . Guest: Mike Shiplack (Regina Disc Golf Association Director).  

4. The LeBoldus Golden Suns are gunning for a third straight city and provincial 4A high school football championship. Guests: Chan De Ciman & Jamall Hooker (Golden Suns Players).  
 
5. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Locker Talk lineup for September 9 - Season Premiere!

Here's the lineup for this week's show, the first one of a brand new broadcast season. It aired last night, and will hit the Access 7 airwaves again Saturday at noon.

Locker Talk Guests for September 9/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. Saskatchewan stuns the basketball world by capturing the national U15 girl’s championship. Guests: Wayne Morrison (Head Coach), Becca Hryhoriw, Paige Davies & Emily Dewey (Team Sask players). 

2. Registration is open for the 2014/15 water polo season in Regina. Water-filled fun for everyone! Guests: Alex Dyck (Coach and Player), Eric Graham (Coach), Brody McKnight (U14 Player) and Adrien Van Dyke (U16 Player).   

3. Access 7 Sports Play of the Month. For July and August. 

4. The Regina All-Stars represented Canada at the Junior Little League World Series this summer. Guests: Rene Putzlocher (Manager) & Marcus Roflik (Player).   

5. The University of Regina men’s hockey season travels to Germany to prep for the 2014/15 season. Guests: Liam Brennan, Jordan Reeve, and Carter Selinger (Cougars players).  

6. A preview of Domination, the September show put on in Regina by High Impact Wrestling. Guests: Alexander Prime & Jacob Creed (Wrestlers).   

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

Locker Talk Lineup for June 24 - Season Finale!

Another season of Locker Talk on Access 7 has come to an end! Here's what we'll leave you with this week. The show airs tonight at 9:00, Saturday at noon, and will be available to Access customers via the On Demand menu for days and weeks and months to come. Hopefully it will tide you over until we hit the airwaves again in September!

Locker Talk Guests for June 24/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. The Regina Thunder football club gets set to launch defense of the 2013 national junior football championship. Guests: Derek Lamer (Defensive Coordinator), Brett Selinger (Thunder Linebacker) & Matt Halbegewachs (Offensive Lineman).  

2. The University of Regina is the hunt for a new Athletic Director, pending the retirement of Dick White after 20 years at the helm. Guest: Dick White (U of R Director of Athletics).   

3. The 2014 Regina Minor Football season is just weeks away, and for some players – it’s already begun! Guest: Len Antonini (Executive Director, RMF Inc.)  

4. A look ahead to a busy summer for the crew at High Impact Wrestling, and the launch of another season of HIWTV on Access 7 in the fall. Guest: King Kash (HIW CEO) & Michael Allen Richard Clark (Wrestler).  

5. Panel discussion. A look back at some of the major local sports stories over the past season, and a look ahead to what’s in store for the rest of 2014. Panelists: Carlo Palazzo (Locker Talk…guy) & Arielle Zerr (CBC journalist). 

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

Locker Talk Lineup for June 17

We're into the home stretch of the 2013-14 broadcast season for Locker Talk. Here's the lineup for the second last show of the season. It aired on Access 7 in Regina last night, and will be rebroadcast Saturday at noon. If that doesn't work for you, there is always the On Demand option as well!

Locker Talk Guests for June 17/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. A look back at a successful first season for Regina’s high school girls flag football league. Guest: Emma Hicks (Football Saskatchewan Director of Female Football Development) & Nancy Lamb (Coach – Riffel High School).   

2. The Regina Riot women’s football team gets set to take on their arch rivals from Saskatoon in the WWCFL Prairie Conference final. Guests: Sherry Hill (Riot OL) & Artemis Kouroupoulou (Riot LB).  

3. A preview of the Jon Ryan Charity Golf Classic and Business Luncheon, featuring Regina’s own Super Bowl champion. Guest: Brett Barker (Organizing Committee).  

4. The Film Room. Locker Talk movie reviewer Carlo Palazzo is back to offer his thoughts on another classic from the genre of sports movies. This time: Gracie. 

5. The Campbell Tartans celebrate a 6th straight city high school track and field team championship. Guests: Darren Peters (Head Coach), Paige Jeannot & Jonah Toth (Tartans Athletes).  

6. An update on goings-on at Kings Park Speedway, including a look ahead to some special events during the Canada Day weekend. Guest: Stacey Getz (Regina Auto Racing Club President).  

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

Locker Talk Lineup for June 10

Here's the lineup for this week's star-studded show. It hit the Access 7 airwaves last night, and will be repeated Saturday at noon. As always, it will also be available via Access' On Demand service as well.

Locker Talk Guests for June 10/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. The CFL and the Player’s Association have reached a tentative contract agreement. Let the games begin! Guest: Rob Vanstone (Regina Leader-Post Sports Coordinator).  

2. A farewell to the retiring commissioner of high school athletics in Regina. Guest: Chuck Toth (RHSAA Commissioner - outgoing).  

3. An introduction to the new Regina High School Athletic Association commissioner. Guest: Angela Tillier (RHSAA Commissioner – incoming).  

4. The University of Regina men’s basketball team roster is undergoing an overhaul this offseason. Guests: Darius Mole & Travis Sylvestre (Cougars Players).  

5. A preview of Breaking Point, the June Regina card put on by High Impact Wrestling. Guest: Brett Evans (Wrestler). 

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

Locker Talk Lineup for June 3

We're inching towards the end of another broadcast season at the end of this month. So, we'd better cram in as many top-quality guests as we can in June!  The action begins tonight at 9 p.m., and the show is replayed Saturday at noon on Access channel 7. 

Locker Talk Guests for June 3/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. The Regina Riot women’s football team hosts Saskatoon this weekend in the WWCFL regular season finale. A league championship preview? Guests: Joe Hadesbeck (Riot Ass’t GM) & Trisha Jattansingh (Riot OL).  

2. A preview of the 2014 Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies. Guests: Sheila Kelly (SSHF Executive Director), Randy & Russ Bryden (2014 Inductees).   

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

4. The sport of cricket is growing by leaps and bounds in Regina, and across Saskatchewan. Guests: Sam Khan (Saskatchewan Cricket Association President) & Afzaal Siddiqui (Regina Cricket Association President).  

5. A preview of the 2014 Credit Union Queen City Marathon – just a few spots left, so register now! Guest: Kim Zacaruk (Assistant Race Director).  

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

Locker Talk Lineup for May 27

Here's the lineup for this week's show. We hit the Access 7 airwaves tonight at 9 p.m. and again Saturday at noon. It's local sports programming of the highest quality!

Locker Talk Guests for May 27/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. The Regina Riot women’s football team is prepping for the regular season finale against their arch-rivals from Saskatoon. Guests: Olivier Eddie (Assistant Coach – Special Teams & QBs) & Amanda Tafylmeyer (DL).  

2. Saskatchewan’s first high school sports academy gets set to open its doors in Regina this fall. Guests: Kim Perpeluk & Rob Cherepuschak (Martin Academy Coordinators).   

3. The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie reviewer Carlo Palazzo is back, to offer his thoughts on another sports cinema classic from days gone by. 

4. A preview of the 2014 Saskatchewan Roughrider training camp, and update on the state of CFL labour talks. Guest: Murray McCormick (Regina Leader-Post Rider Correspondent). 

5. A preview of the 2014 Western Major Baseball League season. Guest: Scott Douglas (Regina Red Sox manager).  

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

Locker Talk Lineup for May 20

Here's the lineup for this week's show. It aired last night, and will hit the Access 7 airwaves again Saturday at noon. The last third of the show is a little more sombre than you're used to from us, but we hope you'll watch anyway!

Locker Talk Guests for May 20/14
Co-Host: Carlo Palazzo

1. The new ownership group gets set to put its own stamp on the operation of the Regina Pats. Guest: Todd Lumbard (Regina Pats President/Co-Owner).  

2. A preview of the 2014 Ken Goff Memorial Boxing Classic. Guests: Scott Hubic (Organizing Committee), Daniel Trespanier (Team Canada Coach), Custio Clayton (Team Canada boxer), Arieane Fortin (Team Canada boxer), Mark James (Team Wales coach) & Ashley Williams (Team Wales boxer).  

3. Locker Talk Fitness File. With hosts Daniel Ince and Michelle Espino. 

4. The top quarterback in Canadian junior football is leaving the Regina Thunder for the McMaster Marauders of the CIS. Guest: Asher Hastings (McMaster quarterback/2013 Locker Talk Regina Athlete of the Year).   

5. A preview of Fallout, this month’s Regina card put on by High Impact Wrestling. Guests: Brett Evans & Alexander Prime (Wrestlers).   

6. Panel discussion. Remembering Crystal McGregor, Joanne Goulet and Chris “Tank” Workman.

Locker Talk Lineup for May 13

It's Tuesday night - time for another edition of Locker Talk to hit the Access 7 airwaves! This week's show airs tonight at 9 p.m. and Saturday at noon. Here's the lineup:

Locker Talk Guests for May 13/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. A former Regina Red Sox star is back with the squad as an assistant coach, and is also mentoring young players with Baseball Regina. Guest: Mitch MacDonald (Regina Red Sox/Baseball Regina coach).  

2. The O’Neill Titans celebrate a 7th straight city high school badminton team championship. Guests: Nizanne Torres & Janine Morales (Titans badminton players).   

3. Patrick Palmer, Human Guinea Pig. 

4. The Regina Auto Racing Club gears up for another season of action at King’s Park Speedway. Guest: Stacey Getz (RARC President). 

5. A preview of the 2014 Regina Highland Games, featuring the always popular heavy event competition. Guest: Jason Johnston (Organizer/Heavy Events Competitor).   

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

Locker Talk Lineup for May 6

Here's the lineup for this week's show. Because Access 7 is picking up the Shaw broadcast of the WHL finals tonight, we'll air on Access 7 at 11 p.m., and again Saturday at noon. 

Locker Talk Guests for May 6/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. Poland captures the men’s and women’s championships at the 2014 WCP Cup soccer tournament. Guests: Karlen Herauf (Team Poland - Women) & Bart Walczykowski (Team Poland – Men).  

2. A preview of the annual Football Saskatchewan Senior Bowl for graduating high school players, plus an overview of the minor football scene across the province. Guest: Mike Thomas (Football Saskatchewan Technical Director).   

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

4. The Regina Lawn Bowling Club has a busy 2014 season planned. Guests: Jean Roney & Brandon Watson (Regina Lawn Bowling Club).  

5. A preview of the 2014 home opener for the Regina Riot women’s tackle football team. Guests: Ashley Viklund (OL) & Kari Anne Klassen (LB).   

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

Locker Talk Lineup for April 29

The focus shifts to outdoor sports exclusively on this week's show. Maybe we can convince Mother Nature to lighten up by doing so! The show airs tonight at 9:00 and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina. Here's the lineup:

Locker Talk Guests for April 29/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. A preview of the 2014 Regina Thunder junior football club’s spring camp and Can-Am football exchange. Guest: Scott MacAulay (Head Coach).  

2. A trio of players from the University of Regina Rams will take part in the annual CIS east-west all-star football game. Guests: Aaron Picton (Rams offensive lineman) & Addison Richards (Rams receiver).  

3. The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie reviewer Carlo Palazzo offers his thoughts on another cinematic classic. This time: Wimbledon. 

4. A Regina-based national track and field coach returns to her roots to take over as head coach of the Excel Athletika track club. Guest: Carla Nicholls (Excel Athletika Head Coach). 

5. A preview of the 2014 Regina Red Sox WMBL season. Guest: Rob Cherepuschak (Red Sox Director of Player Personnel).  

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

For Pete's Sake - Sports Commentary

With the Scruffy one on the DL this week, I crafted this week's sports commentary for Locker Talk. For better or worse, the text is below:


These are heady times for Canadian sports fans, as our young athletes are making huge splashes in their respective sports these days.

Of course there’s hockey, where our men and women captured Olympic gold in Sochi this winter. We’re due at the World Junior Championships – overdue, really – but as long as we keep sending top prospects to the NHL each year, I’d say there’s no reason to push any panic buttons at this point.

Our minor baseball systems, including the one right here in Saskatchewan, are sending more kids each year to top U.S. college programs. Some of those youngsters, including Andrew Albers of North Battleford, are starting to appear on major league rosters. If we can just get Canada’s team, the Blue Jays, into the playoffs, things could get pretty exciting. And bring back the Expos, damnit!

Our grassroots football programs, led right here by Regina Minor Football, are getting better and better each year. Don’t believe me? Go check out a high school football game this fall, and compare it to the quality of play when we strapped on the helmets. The progression is amazing, and that’s why we’re seeing more and more Canadians playing at the highest levels – including Regina’s very own reigning Super Bowl champ Jon Ryan of the Seattle Seahawks.

Next it’s over to basketball, where as many as three Canadians could be taken in the top 20 of this year’s NBA draft. One of them, Kansas freshman Andrew Wiggins, may wind up being taken with the first overall pick. As these youngsters mature, along with a handful of young Canuck stars already in the Association, it makes a hoops fan salivate at the possibilities. I’m not suggesting an Olympic gold medal in basketball is around the corner, but a medal of some sort at the next games in Rio in 2016 is a definite possibility.

Soccer…not so much. But with the phenomenal growth of the sport at the grassroots level in every corner of this country, check out the WCP Cup currently underway in Regina for proof, surely improved results in international competitions are on the horizon. We can hope, anyway.

Young Canadian golfers, led by Weyburn’s Graham DeLaet, are poised to break through at the highest levels of their sport. I think we all agree it’s a matter of when, not if, for Delaet’s first victory on the PGA tour.

But, the sport where we’ve seen the most dramatic improvement in the past couple of years may very well be tennis. Yes, tennis. Not since the days of Carling Bassett and Helen Kelesi has a Canadian female caused the kind of stir on the pro circuit that Quebec’s Eugenie Bouchard is causing. Genie’s Army continues to grow in numbers at each stop on the tour, as the young Canadian collects fans, and ranking points.

On the men’s side, Ontario’s Milos Raonic is a legitimate world top ten player, and has a very real shot at making some noise at Wimbledon and the U.S Open this season. And of course there’s ageless veteran Daniel Nestor, who continues to pile up doubles titles at the ripe old age of 41.

Maybe most impressively, Bouchard and Raonic have recently led our national teams to impressive victories in Federation Cup and Davis Cup play. Believe it or not, but Canada is becoming an international mover and shaker in the sport of tennis. Love it!

What’s it all mean? Well, clearly good things are happening at the grass roots levels for all the sports I’ve mentioned – and we haven’t even touched on other summer and winter Olympic sports like snowboarding – hello there Mark McMorris! 

Folks, we are producing great athletes in every corner of this country. And as our Canadian athletes shine on international stages, they inspire the next generation to reach even higher. Buckle up, and enjoy the ride!

Locker Talk Lineup for April 22

Mitch is on the DL this week, so we'll have Arielle Zerr filling in as co-host. If that's not reason enough to tune in, check out the lineup of guests below! The show airs tonight at 9 p.m. and Saturday at noon.

If you miss it, you can always check it out, along with all our previous episodes from this season, through Access' On Demand menu. Heck, invite your friends over and have a Locker Talk party this weekend! That wouldn't be weird at all...

Locker Talk Guests for April 22/14
Co-Host: Arielle Zerr

1. A post mortem on the 2013-14 season for the Regina Rebels female midget AAA hockey team. Guest: Rob Harvey (Assistant Coach), Shelby Ballan & Allysa Hein (Rebels players).  

2. From France to Regina – one man’s mission to make Saskatchewan a powerhouse in the sport of water polo. Guest: Cyril Dorgigné (Water Polo Saskatchewan Executive Director).  

3. A preview of the 2014 Swervin’ Mini Indy Laps for Life charity fundraiser. Guest: Merv Armstrong (Organizer).  

4. A preview of the 2014 Paul Woldu and Friends Football Camp. Guests: Paul Woldu (Rider defensive back) & Stan Van Sichem (Camp Co-Director).  

5. A post-mortem on the 2013-14 season for the Traveland RV (Pilot Butte) Storm of the Prairie Junior Hockey League. Guests: Dale Lewgood (Team President) & Brady Anderson (Player).  

6. For Pete’s Sake! Locker Talk weekly sports commentary, by Pete Paczko.

7. A preview of Spring Meltdown 2014, the star-studded High Impact Wrestling card coming up on Friday night at the historic Ballaton Ballroom. Guests: Robbie Gamble (Wrestler) & Rex Roberts (HIW Heavyweight Champ).  

Locker Talk Lineup for April 15

Here's the lineup for this week's jam-packed show. It aired last night, and hits the Access 7 airwaves again Saturday at noon. And of course it's available on demand for those lucky Access customers who have that option!

Locker Talk Guests for April 15/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. A preview of the 2014 Don Narcisse junior football camp and football gala. Guest: Don Narcisse (Rider great). 

 2. Golf course operators – and golfers - are counting down the days until the start of the 2014 season. Shouldn’t be long now! Guest: Bryan Raymond (Flowing Springs Golf Greens).  

3. Regina’s World Class Players mini World Cup indoor soccer tournament celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. Guests: Megan Cormier (Player – Team Germany) & Jordan Peto (Player – Team France). 

4. Locker Talk Fitness File. With hosts Daniel Ince & Michelle Espino.  

 5. The University of Regina will host a charity basketball game this weekend, in support of a former Cougars star. Guest: Cymone Bernauer (Event Organizer).  

6. Moose Jaw gets set to host the top midget AAA hockey teams in Canada for the 2014 Telus Cup. Guest: Chris Aparicio (Event Chair).  

7. The Regina Riot women’s football team is kicking off a preseason road trip to drum up interest in other southern Saskatchewan communities. Guests: Darren Fisher (Head Coach) & Cassitee Criddle (Riot DB).  

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

Locker Talk Lineup for April 8

Has spring finally sprung? In celebration, we've put together a star-studded lineup for this week's show, including Olympians, World Series and Super Bowl champs! Here's the roster:

Locker Talk Guests for April 8/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair 

1. The celebration is still on for Regina’s first ever Super Bowl champion. Can the Seahawks make it two in a row this season? Guest: Jon Ryan (Seattle Seahawks punter).

 2. A preview of the 2014 Regina Minor Football season. Registrations are pouring in! Guest: Kelly Hamilton (RMF President). 

 3.  Former MLB star Jose Canseco visits Regina for the annual Regina Red Sox sports dinner.  

4. A pair of Regina-based Olympians returns to town to help train the next crop of world-class speed skaters. Guests: Kali Christ & Marsha Hudey (2014 Olympians – speed skating).

5. A preview of the 2014 Credit Union Queen City Marathon. Registrations are pouring in for this one too! Guest: Shawn Weimer (Race Director).

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

Locker Talk Lineup for April 1

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.  Watch for a pretty important announcement regarding the future of the show's hosts towards the end of the broadcast!

Locker Talk Guests for April 1/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair 
1. A Regina-based CFLer continues his recovery from a serious injury, and ponders his pro football future. Guest: Stu Foord (CFL running back).   

2. The Campbell Tartans celebrate city and provincial high school (Girls 5A) basketball championships. Guests: Christina McCusker & Kelsey Schmidt (Tartans players).  

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

4. A preview of the 2014 Baseball Regina season. Guest: Leo MacDonald (Baseball Regina Board of Directors).  

5. The Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame jumps into the digital age in a big way. Guests: Trent Fraser (SSHOF President) & Linda Burnham (Inductee & board member).  

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

Locker Talk LIneup for March 25

I've really been doing a poor job of keeping this blog going, and of posting the weekly Locker Talk lineup. Sorry. New job. Kinda busy. Hopefully things calm down soon.

In the meantime, here's the lineup for this week's show - airing tonight at 9 p.m. and Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina.

Locker Talk Guests for March 25/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. The Harvest City Reapers celebrate an 8th straight provincial high school basketball championships. Guests: Joel Wells (Head Coach), Atlee Simon & Julian Apakoh (Reapers players).   

2. The LeBoldus Golden Suns celebrate back-to-back city and provincial high school (Boys 5A) basketball championships. Guests: Sam Hillis & Chan DeCiman (Suns Players).  

3. A post mortem on the 2013-14 season for the U of R women’s hockey team. Guests: Kendra Finch & Kaitlin Sherven (Cougars forwards).  

4. The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie reviewer Carlo Palazzo offers his thoughts on a cinematic classic. This time: Caddyshack.    

5. A preview of the 2014 national adult figure skating championships this weekend in Regina. Guest: Susan Waldal (Event Chair).  

6. A legendary Regina high school basketball coach prepares to call it a (teaching) career. Guest: Glen Fekula (Balfour Redmen senior boys basketball head coach).   

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

Locker Talk Lineup for March 11

Here's the lineup for this week's show. It airs tonight at 9 p.m. and Saturday at noon. Always available on demand for Access customers. Enjoy!

Locker Talk Guests for March 11/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1. A post mortem on the 2013-14 season for the University of Regina track and field team. Guests: Jeremy Eckert (CIS gold medalist – high jump), Chris Pickering (CIS silver medalist – shot put) & Joy Becker (CIS silver medalist – long jump).   

2. Team Saskatchewan athletes bring home a pile of medals from the International Gymnix Invitational Gymnastics meet in Montreal Guests: Breanna Franklin (Gymnast) & Dana Brass (Coach).   

3. The O’Neill Titans celebrate city and provincial team championships in boys and girls high school wrestling. Guests: Rob Nelson (Head Coach) & Connor Neuls (Wrestler) 

4. Another action-packed season is just around the corner for the ladies of the Pile ‘O Bones roller derby club. Guests: Bruce Wilde (Derby name: Bruce Payne) & Vanessa Ranger (Derby name: Van-necessary Roughness).  

5. A preview of the Age of War card coming up March 14th, as presented by High Impact Wrestling (and taped for broadcast on Access 7). Guests: Robbie Gamble and Thryllin’ Dylan (Wrestlers).   

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

Locker Talk Lineup for February 25

Here's the lineup for this week's show, hitting the Access 7 airwaves tonight at 8 pm and Saturday at noon.  If those times don't work for you, you can always catch the show on demand - if you're an Access customer, that is!

Locker Talk Guests for February 25/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair 

1. A Regina native gets set to head to Sochi for the Paralympics. Guest: Curtis Hunt (Team Canada coach – sledge hockey).   

2. A preview of the annual Regina Red Sox sports dinner on April 5th, featuring guest speaker Jose Canseco. Guest: Gary Brotzel (Red Sox President).  

3. The Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie reviewer Carlo Palazzo returns with his thoughts on another cinematic classic. This time: Rush. 

4. A preview of the 2014 Battle of the Prairies boxing event at April 4th. Guest: Frank Fiacco (Lonsdale Boxing Club President).  

5. The Blair Necessities. Mitch’s weekly sports commentary. (http://blair-necessities.blogspot.com) 

6. A preview of Alive, the February card (and Access tv taping) for High Impact Wrestling. Guests: King Kash & Wavell Starr (High Impact Wrestlers). 

Locker Talk Lineup for February 11

Here's the lineup for this week's show. If you missed it last night, it will air again Saturday at noon on Access channel 7 in Regina. It's also available on demand for Access customers. Enjoy!

Locker Talk Guests for February 11/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1.   A preview of the 2014 Luther Invitational High School basketball tournament. Guests: Michael Lang (Student Organizing Committee) & Chris Bend (Luther Lions player). 2.   The University of Regina softball team is hitting the road for a series of exhibition games against NCAA opponents in Hawaii. Guests: Mike Smith (Head Coach) & Taylor Grof (Infielder). 3.   (ENG) The Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame gets into the Olympic spirit with a new exhibit dedicated to the Winter Olympics. Reporter: Arielle Zerr. 4.   Regina Minor Football is gearing up for the 2014 season. Registrations are now open for the high school spring league. Guest: Kelly Hamilton (RMF President). 5.   Regina will host the 2015 Saskatchewan Special Olympics Winter Games. Guest: Faye Matt (Special Olympics Sask CEO). 6.   The Blair Necessities.  Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Locker Talk Lineup for February 4

Here's the lineup for this week's show. It aired last night - but don't despair, it will hit the Access 7 airwaves again Saturday at noon. And it is available on demand, along with every show from this season. You could conceivably host your own Locker Talk marathon viewing party!

Locker Talk Guests for February 4/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1.   A profile of the University of Regina swimming teams. Guests: Samantha Bancescu & Craig Soutar (Cougar Swimmers). 2.   Their head coach is under house arrest (measles quarantine), but the University of Regina women’s basketball team keeps rolling along. Guests: Taylor Pelletier & Megan Chamberlin (Cougars Players). 3.   Access 7 Sports Plays of the Month. For January. 4.   A look back at Hockey Weekend in Saskatchewan, held in January. Guest: Karlen Herauf (Saskatchewan Hockey Association). 5.   A preview of the 2014 Naig American Indigenous Games, coming to Regina in July. Guest: Joe Daniels (NAIG Operations Manager). 6.   The Blair Necessities.  Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Locker Talk Lineup for January 28

Here's the lineup for this week's show. It aired last night, and will hit the Access 7 airwaves again on Saturday at noon. Plus, all episodes are available via the On Demand service for Access customers.

Locker Talk Guests for January 28/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1.   A profile of the University of Regina track and field team. Guests: Joy Becker, Tevaughn Campbell and Tait Nystuen (Cougar track athletes). 2.   City Hall raises the Seattle Seahawks’ 12th man flag, in support of Regina native – and Seahawks’ punter Jon Ryan. The Seahawks take on the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl this weekend.  Reporter: Mitchell Blair. 3.   The O’Neill Titans are gunning for their second straight city championships in boys and girls high school wrestling. Guests: Robert Kirton (Coach) & Alyx Paulson (Wrestler). 4.   Locker Talk Film Room. Locker Talk sports movie reviewer Carlo Palazzo offers his thoughts on another sports cinematic classic. This time: Varsity Blues. 5.   A profile of the University of Regina men’s and women’s wrestling teams. Guests: Kristine Longeau & Danielle Anderson (Wrestlers).  6.   The Blair Necessities.  Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Monday Musings

Whoa! Did somebody forget to pay the heating bill? Damn it's cold out there. Might as well restore circulation to the extremities by doing a little typing.

• I neither hate nor love either participating team, so I'll be cheering for the Seattle Seahawks in Sunday's Super Bowl, strictly because Regina's Jon Ryan booms punts for the Seahawks. 
• I wonder how many other people around here are in the same boat?
• So, is this where the Toronto Maple Leafs come crashing back down to earth after their recent six game winning streak?  
• Don't look now, but the Toronto Raptors are sitting atop the (admittedly weak) Atlantic division of the NBA. The Raps currently hold down the 4th playoff seed in the eastern conference.
• Now, find me three Canadians - outside of Toronto - who care about the preceding bullet!
• I caught the WWE Royal Rumble pay-per-view last night. With my new announcing duties on High Impact Wrestling broadcasts, do WWE pay-per-views count as research? 
• Do I even need to guess how the Canada Revenue Agency would answer that question?
• It looks as though the J-man made it through his first round of high school exams relatively unscathed. 
• However, he was not impressed when I told him that I didn't have to write an exam until grade 11. Grade 9 and 10 students at our high school were exempted from exams if they had a mark over 80% in a given class. Good times!
• Yes, you can interpret that to mean I had pretty good grades in high school. How the mighty have fallen! 
• One new year's resolution is crossed off, with a new job starting in a couple of weeks. Now it's time to get serious about the fitness resolution! (Hey! It could happen!)
• So, why is U.S. Netflix so much better than the Canadian version?

Monday Musings

It's the start of a new work week. What's not to love?

• Kudos to the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks for advancing to the Super Bowl with wins in their respective conference championship games.
• The teams with the two best records in the regular season will meet for all the marbles. Sounds about right.
• Speaking of marbles, did Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman lose his during his post game interview with Erin Andrews?
• Sherman's rant was definitely ill advised, but most of the vitriol directed towards him in the aftermath was much worse. And in some cases, blatantly racist. Not cool.
• Well, the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks found a way for people to notice their underachieving little teams, didn't they?
• Prearranged line brawls do nothing for the credibility of the NHL, especially among potential fans outside of traditional hockey markets. But I suspect you already knew that.
• On the bright side, the Toronto Maple Leafs are riding a season long four game winning streak, after dispatching the Montreal Canadians Saturday night.
• I'm not exactly objective on the subject, but I swear the Habs have the most gutless collection of forwards I've seen on one NHL team in a long time!
• FINALLY! The Regina Pats finally notched a victory over the Prince Albert Raiders on the weekend. The timing couldn't be better, after the Pats soiled the sheets at home on Friday night against the Kootenay Ice.
• It was an historic evening Friday at the Balaton Ballroom in Regina, as the High Impact Wrestling hijinks were taped for future broadcast on Access 7.  Apologies in advance for the quality (or lack thereof!) of the play-by-play commentator! Good help is obviously hard to find.

Friday Follies

Just a random assortment of thoughts, rattling around in the old noggin:

• I've done a lot of things in my broadcasting career. Been a lot of places, seen a lot of things. Tonight, it's something brand new as I man the announce booth for High Impact Wrestling on Access 7.  My Locker Talk cohort Mitchell Blair will join me on the headsets - but not tonight, as he has a previous engagement. This should be fun. Oh, the debauchery!
• It's Pack the Dome night at the Brandt Centre (formerly Agridome) as the Regina Pats host the Kootenay Ice. The game will be broadcast live on Rogers Sportsnet, and here's hoping the hockey fans of Regina and area turn out in droves.
• With a little bit of consistency in their play, and especially between the pipes, I think the Pats might be able to go at least two rounds into the WHL playoffs this spring. Wouldn't that be fun?
• I'm sorry, I honestly can't see Weston Dressler cracking an NFL roster. I think he'll be back in Rider green, although possibly not until later in the season. And I also sincerely - for his sake - hope I'm wrong on both counts!
• Don't tell Mitchell Blair, but I'm probably going to be cheering for his Seattle Seahawks this weekend in the NFC final. Yes, I hate the San Francisco 49ers that much!
• The AFC final features two future Hall of Fame quarterbacks in New England's Tom Brady and Denver's Peyton Manning. So of course it'll probably end up as a 10-7 final!
• Seattle vs either New England or Denver would make for a pretty darn entertaining Super Bowl match-up. It may even rival the commercials for entertainment value!
• 2014 is starting out with a move up the corporate ladder for yours truly. The news is still very fresh, so I'm going to have to keep the details close to the vest for the time being.
• 2014 is absolutely kicking the crap out of 2013 so far. I certainly hope that continues!

Locker Talk Lineup for January 14

Epic. That's the word that will used by future generations to describe this week's episode of Locker Talk on Access 7. The show airs tonight at 9 p.m., and again at noon on Saturday. It will also be repeated next week, and will be available on demand for Regina Access cable customers. Here's the lineup:

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

1.   A preview of the 2014 Saskatchewan men’s Tankard, coming up in Shaunavon later this month. Guest: Braeden Moskowy (Third - Team Virtue). 2.   An update on the 2013/14 PJHL season for the Traveland RV (Pilot Butte) Storm. Guests: Tanner McCall (Assistant Coach) & Brady Anderson (Forward).  3.   Locker Talk Fitness File. For January. With hosts Daniel Ince & Michelle Espino. 4.   The roster tinkering is complete, and now the Regina Pats will take a run at a WHL east division championship. Guest: Bill McGuigan (Pats Assistant Coach). 5.   An update on a challenging season for the University of Regina men’s basketball team. Guest: Darius Mole (Cougars Guard). 6.   A preview of “Pride and Glory”, the first High Impact Wrestling show of 2014 in Regina. Guests: King Kash (Wrestler/Promoter) & Mike McSugar (Wrestler). 7.   The Blair Necessities.  Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Locker Talk Lineup for January 7

It's the first show of the new year! Here's the lineup for this week's episode, airing tonight at 11 p.m. (after WHL hockey) and again Saturday at noon on Access channel 7. Tune in. I dare ya!

Locker Talk Guests for January 7/14
Co-Host: Mitchell Blair

1.   Locker Talk 2013 Regina Athlete of the Year award presentation. Winner/Guest: Asher Hastings (Regina Thunder QB). 2.   Several Regina speedskaters get set to represent their country at the Winter Olympics in Sochi, while their home club launches its outdoor season. Guests: Bill Christ (Regina Speed Skating Club Head Coach) & Mallory Gellner (Coach/skater). 3.   Access 7 Sports Plays of the Month. For December. 4.   Regina is getting set to host the national ringette championships in April. Guests: Denise Treslan & Carla Pieracci (Organizing Committee).  5.   An update on the 2013/14 season for the Regina Rebels female midget AAA hockey club. Guests: Kim Perepeluk (Head Coach) & Andie Wilyman (Rebels Forward). 6.   The Blair Necessities.  Mitch’s weekly sports commentary.

Monday Musings

Typing keeps us warm, so blogging is a necessity on a day like today!

• It's been a very cold winter so far in this part of the world, but it has snowed considerably less than last year. So, which scenario is better? Can we vote for a third option?
• For the second straight year, Canada fails to win a medal at the World Junior Hockey Championships. Let the navel-basing and hand-wringing begin!
• I agree with Brent Sutter. Other countries are producing more top-end talent, because they're actually letting kids develop their skills, rather than teaching them systems that stifle their creativity at an early age.
• For instance, look at Canada's defensemen this year. Those kids seemed almost afraid to try to create anything offensively. Is that a talent issue, or coaching?
• The WHL trade deadline is just a few days away. Do the Regina Pats load up, and try to make a run for top spot in a weak east division? Or deal a couple players for some assets for next year?
• When's the last time the Pats were legitimate contenders at this time of year, and we didn't have to wonder what they would do at the trade deadline?
• Once again, the Green Bay Packers fail to contain San Francisco quarterback Colin Kaepernick, and will watch the rest of the NFL playoffs from home.
• The Packers sport one of the most exciting offenses in pro football, but their defense is poor - especially the front seven.
• So, who do I cheer for now? I'm leaning towards the Seahawks, but can always be convinced otherwise with a well-placed bribe!
• How are you doing with your New Year's resolutions? I haven't been 100% with my commitment to eating better and working out more often, but not bad. There's still hope!
• Better make sure your pvrs are in good working order, because Locker Talk returns to the Access 7 airwaves tomorrow night. We kick things off by announcing the 2013 Locker Talk Regina Athlete of the Year.  
• No, the winner isn't Mitch's man crush Rex Roberts. However, Rex and the rest of his High Impact Wrestling cronies will also return to the Access airwaves in 2014, with the launch of their own weekly pro wrestling show. Should be fun!