Dog Pound Weekly

Published on November 24, 2004 under North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Bozeman Icedogs News Release


After three weeks of frustration, the Bozeman ICEDOGS finally have something to smile about.

Starting last Thursday, the ICEDOGS went on a four game road trip and returned Monday morning 2-1-1. Bozeman split it's first two games with the Bismarck Bobcats, then traveled to Minnesota where they managed a win and a shootout loss to the Blizzard. Before Thursday, Bozeman had lost six out of their last seven in the weeks since the NAHL showcase.

Last Thursday, the ICEDOGS lost 2-1 in typical fashion, out shooting the Bobcats 43-34 while controlling the flow of play for most of the game. The loss hardly fazed the ICEDOGS, however, as they came back the next night with a 6-3 win.

Over the next two nights in Minnesota, the ICEDOGS performed in similar fashion, as once again they controlled play in the first game only to lose in a shootout, then bounced back on Sunday with a 6-0 win.

Although the 'DOGS still sit at the bottom of the Western conference standings, last weekend's games reaffirmed to themselves that they are a team that can compete with the best in the league. It also taught them they can play as a dominant team.

After another road game in Billings this Friday, the ICEDOGS will head home to battle Bismarck on Saturday. With last weekend's games providing them proof of what they're capable of, the ICEDOGS will now focus on moving up in the standings one game at a time.

This weekend the 'DOGS play in Billings on Friday and here against the Bismarck Bobcats on Saturday!

Next weekend is a huge promotional weekend for fans of the ICEDOGS. Next Friday, the 'DOGS play the Minnesota Blizzard and it is DiGiorno Pizza Night where fans can get an ENTIRE Thin Crispy Crust Pizza for a mere $5! Saturday night is the second annual Moonlight Basin Sellout and Win Promotion for a FREE lift ticket!

Spotlight on Tyler Graybill #18

Tyler recently joined the ICEDOGS after being brought up to the NAHL from the Junior B Kootenai Colts. Tyler was born in 1986, and looks forward to a couple more years in Bozeman before hopefully being able to earn a college scholarship.

What skills do you bring to the ICEDOGS? Even though I am a Forward, I try to play defensively and score the big goal when needed. What skills do you want to improve? My stick handling needs work. What sports do you play other than hockey? At one time I enjoyed wrestling, but am just focusing on hockey now. What are your favorite teams? My favorite team is the Vancouver Canucks. I don't follow the NBA, MLB, or NFL. Why Did You Start Playing Hockey? One day I got a learn to skate flyer at school and my parents got me enrolled. What do you want to be remembered for by ICEDOGS' fans? My intensity and unique style of play. What is your pre-game routine? I go to the team pre-game skate and stretch, get something to eat, watch a movie, take a nap, and eat a small meal before going to the rink for the game.

If you received $100 cash as a gift, what would you do with it? Buy food and a sweatshirt. If you were granted any three wishes, what would you request? A long hockey career, a family that never has to worry about money, and my own island in the Carribbean.

What are five words people would use to describe you? Dedicated, Loyal, Fun, Smart, and Free Spirited. Have you ever been a part of a championship team in another sport, if so what sport and when? Yes. Last year my Junior B team won our league. What do like most about Bozeman? Getting a chance to play at a level that I have worked my whole life to get to.

A Little Hockey Humor

Andy came to work one day, limping something awful. One of his co-workers, Josh, noticed and asked Andy what happened. Andy replied, "Oh, nothing. It's just an old hockey injury that acts up once in a while." Josh said, "Gee, I never knew you played hockey." Andy responded, "No I don't. I hurt it last year when I lost $100 on the Stanley Cup play-offs. I put my foot through the television."

Tyler Kindle Keeps The Hockey Fire Buring

It seems like just yesterday for many ICEDOGS' fans, but Tyler Kindle hasn't worn the black & red since 1999. In fact, Tyler was a defenseman on the original ICEDOGS squad in 1996-97 that played their home games in Helena under a previous ownership group who left them without a home rink.

After finishing his Junior career in 1999, he went to Wayne State University where his team won the league championship 3 of 4 years. He earned a degree in Public Affairs, and a hired an agent to further his hockey career. "College life was difficult. It was like having two full-time jobs, playing hockey and going to school. I really enjoyed what little free time I had, and trying to be a regular student when the opportunity presented itself," he said.

His agent, paid a commission based on the contract negotiated, helped Tyler land his first professional position in Pensacola, Florida. He played there through the 2003 ECHL All Star game, before being traded to the Trenton Titans. This year, he joined the Pee Dee pride in Florence, South Carolina and is having an exceptional season. In 11 games, he has one goal and three assists.

"The transition from college to the professionals was not as difficult as most people think. Players are quicker and about 20 to 30 pounds heavier," Tyler noted. One unique element is the fans, which average between 3,000-4,000 per game. "We play in arenas that seat around 10,000. Sometimes it looks pretty empty, but fans get into the games and get the place rocking. There is usually about one good fight per game, so that definitely helps."

The ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) has a combined team salary cap of $10,000 per week. Tyler said the players, most of whom are between 21 and 36, make about $500 per week on average. They also receive health insurance and their rent paid as part of their compensation package. Travel for the Pride is mostly on a bus, which is equipped with Satellite Television, a refrigerator, microwave, and 24 bunks for sleeping. The team has practice daily for about one hour, which leaves a lot of free time when not on the road. With 3-4 games per week, however, they need the rest. Unlike his time in Bozeman and college, the professional teams don't require players to work out or attend fitness sessions...it is left up to each individual player to keep themselves in shape.

One of the most intriguing aspects of any minor or professional sport is how the Rookies are treated, and what they have to do. "Most of us don't make very much money, so the Rookies are only required to take the team out for the 'Rookie Party'. This only costs them about $100-150 each. Other than that, there is no hazing or anything else. They do have to pick up pucks after practice, load and clean the bus, and other mundane tasks," he added.

Tyler plans to play hockey as long as his body holds up and the game is fun. Although some players get called up to the NHL from the ECHL, he admits that at age 26 it is a long shot. At some point, he would like to play in Europe where he can earn a higher wage for his services. When his playing days are done, he wants to return to Bozeman and study Engineering at Montana State University.

7th Annual Holiday Ice Show Scheduled

The Bozeman Figure Skating Club will be presenting the 7th annual holiday ice show entitled "On Broadway" on Saturday, December 11th at 7:00 pm and Sunday, December 12th at 1:00 pm.

This show will feature Elvis Stojko, three-time world champion, two-time Olympic silver medalist, and seven time Canadian champion. There will also be special performances by the Bozeman Figure Skating Club and other regional skaters.

Ticket pricing is as follows: Reserved Seats (with backs): $15, General (bench): Adult $10, Children 12 & under: $6, and Children 4 & under: FREE. Tickets may be purchased at the Valley Ice Garden, Smiths, Town & Country, Safeway, and Lee & Dads IGA in Belgrade. These shows are very popular, so get your tickets early!

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North American Hockey League Stories from November 24, 2004


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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