Category Archives: Columns
Chalk Talk: Stats, science commonplace
December 4th, 2015It’s apparent to me that hockey has become like so many other sports. Computers and statisticians are beginning to control the game. We’ve learned how to track every stat and every aspect of every minute of every game to the point where players can gauge their strengths and deficiencies in pin-pointed detail. Not to mention,…
Canadian group offers ideal spring tourney options
December 3rd, 2015Two of the largest and most well-established youth hockey tournaments in Western Canada are ready for another season, and while they’re still a few months away, organizers of the Alberta Champions Cup and Stampede Challenge are encouraging teams to register soon so they don’t miss out. Kip Reghenas, who heads up the team of veteran…
Parental Guidance: Veteran hockey dad savvy
December 2nd, 2015After many, many years, I think I have this hockey dad thing down pretty good. With only a few good years of senility left, I feel like I should pass this knowledge on to someone. A hockey dad is part general, part philosopher, part psychologist. He has to be patient, caring and strong. It also…
Takings Liberties With… Chad Ruhwedel
December 2nd, 2015Chad Ruhwedel Defenseman, Rochester Americans (American Hockey League) Hometown: Scripps Ranch (San Diego) Last Amateur Team: University of Massachusetts-Lowell (Hockey East) Youth Programs: San Diego Stars, La Jolla Jaguars, San Diego Jr. Gulls, Los Angeles Jr. Kings A switch from forward to defense paid dividends for Chad Ruhwedel when he was a Pee Wee, helping…
Industry Profile: Sandra Frame, NOTORIOUS Red
November 26th, 2015Sandra Frame knows the struggle hockey players (and parents) endure when it comes to smelly equipment. As a roller derby competitor for many years, the Los Angeles resident tried endless sprays, solutions and homemade concoctions in an effort to combat the sweat and stink that soaked elbow and knee pads, helmet liners and skates. When…
Editor’s Column: Try Hockey Day a winner
November 17th, 2015Naturally, growing the game is a nationwide mission for USA Hockey, and California has always been at the forefront in helping champion the cause. Look no further than the healthy 11 facilities and partner associations that participated in this month’s Try Hockey For Free Day – an initiative designed to provide a national platform for…
Taking Liberties With… Ryan Lasch
October 30th, 2015Ryan Lasch Forward, Frolunda Indians (Swedish Elite League) Last Amateur Team: St. Cloud State University (WCHA) Hometown: Lake Forest Local Youth Programs: California Wave, South Coast Sabers, Los Angeles Jr. Kings Where Ryan Lasch goes, points follow. After piling up 147 in 56 games during his final year of juniors in Pembroke, Ontario, Lasch went…
Industry Profile: Robert Heller, H-Box Hockey
October 27th, 2015In a day and age when video games seem to have cornered the market on entertainment for kids, it might seem surprising to discover the same excitement and action in a game with no buttons, flashing lights, batteries or power cord. The H-Box Pro Portable Hockey Box has bucked the couch potato trend and is…
Parental Guidance: Time machines are sacred
October 21st, 2015I picked up my son’s old stick the other day – the one I keep safely tucked away in his bedroom closet. It’s survived all the de-cluttering phases and changes of address our family has experienced. It waits there with its red, spongy slip-on handle and matching red tape still wrapped on the blade looking…
Editor’s Column: Recent rink openings a score
October 20th, 2015As hockey’s popularity continues to surge at all levels across California, ice constraints have become a growing concern. Rink openings this month in Poway and Goleta are certainly a breath of fresh air for skaters in the San Diego and Santa Barbara regions. Poway Ice Arena houses one NHL-sized ice sheet and serves as the…