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Springfield Blues
What in the heck are these guys thinking? Do they realize that the North American Hockey League is a junior league? Let's just go out on a limb and say that this is going to be one of the worst teams in the league next year because of coaches that are absolutely clueless about the level of play. I liked that they nabbed 5-6 kids from Illinois, but am seriously questioning all the California kids. What is a 14 year-old going to be able to accomplish in the NAHL at 5'7" 150 pounds?
Port Huron Fighting Falcons
I have been hard on Steve Shannon in regards to naming himself as the head coach of the team, but I have to give him credit for trying to get Mike Gershon under contract and onto the team. Gershon did a great job with the Western States Hockey League's New Mexico Renegades last year.
Shannon would be doing himself a serious favor by crossing the bridge and forming a developmental relationship with the Sarnia Sting. The NAHL could be a very nice stepping stone for some of Sarnia's young prospects.
NAHL West Division
After a grueling month of scheduling and realignment, Kenai River, Fairbanks, Wenatchee, and Fresno are the first four teams locked in. Nice work boys. Now, how in the heck does a coach motivate his players when every team in the division advances?
Texas Youth Power-Play
I am not going to make a habit of dipping into the mess that is youth hockey. With that said, it is amazing what is happening in Texas where the Dallas Stars have made a play to monopolize the competitive levels of play. Luckily, the hockey organizations that have been left off the Stars dance card have been able to organize their own group. If you want to see the politics of hockey at its worst, look no further than Texas. The Southwest Select Hockey Series ( http://swshs.org) looks to be heading into the right direction.
Checkmate Hockey
Checkmate hockey and JuniorHockey.com have teamed up to drastically change to way prospects are identified and evaluated. One of the key elements is to host free evaluation events in markets around the country. The next event is scheduled for Trenton, Michigan's Kennedy Ice Arena on June 22-24. This is an excellent opportunity for junior prospects to get a fair evaluation of their abilities while being seen by participating coaches from teams across the United States and Canada. For more info http://checkmatehockeycamps.com
What do you think?
Stephen Heisler resides in Puerto Peasco, Sonora, Mexico with his wife Maria and their two children, Sonia and Tomas. Friend him on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#!/stephen.heislerfor more information and pictures.
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