Dog Pound Weekly

Published on November 16, 2005 under North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Bozeman Icedogs News Release


ICEDOGS Face Tough Test

The Bozeman ICEDOGS made it through their grueling eight games in ten days earlier this season without a scratch. In fact, it was the start to the 15 game winning streak that will be on the line this weekend when they face one of their toughest road trips of the season.

The ‘DOGS will depart on Thursday for Fargo- Moorhead for a two game series with the Jets on Friday and Saturday, followed by a short drive east for a Sunday contest with the Minnesota Blizzard out of Alexandria, MN. The Jets (14-4-1) and Blizzard (12- 3-3) are first and second in the Central Division standings.

The ICEDOGS defeated the Jets in their first meeting of the season, 4-0, anchored by Matt Dalton's 28 save performance in goal. However, the Jets were without their leading scorer, Kai Kantola (11 G, 12 A) who was out with a suspension, but will be back in the line-up when the ‘DOGS face-off on Friday night.

"Fargo plays a tough brand of hockey," Coach John LaFontaine said. "In playing them and watching them at the showcase we weren't able to see any major weakness in their game. They have a lot of veterans and their leading scorer will be back in the line-up. He is a difference maker for their team."

Friday night is also expected to be a rematch between two of the top goaltenders in the league. Bozeman's Matt Dalton, currently the league's best tender, will face-off against the second ranked goaltender from Fargo, B.J. O'Brien. Both goalies have put up ten game winning streaks this season, with O'Brien's coming at the beginning of the season.

On Sunday, the ICEDOGS will travel to Alexandria, Minnesota for a contest against the Minnesota Blizzard. The Blizzard, second in the Central Division, are expected to be another tough opponent for the ‘DOGS. "I haven't seen them play, but we have some scouting reports," Coach LaFontaine said. "They have a first line that could be the best in the league."

Led by Dan Swanson, sixth in points, and Scott Motz, the Blizzard are 7-1-2 in their last ten games and have caught the Jets in the standings. "They have a bend but don't break style," LaFontaine added. "If we take it to them from the start we will be able to make them break, and then we have to take advantage of our opportunities and we should be good."

You can catch every minute of action live on KBOZ Oldies 93.7 FM. Broadcast kicks off at 5:45 PM local time on Friday and Saturday, with Sunday's broadcast beginning at 3:45 PM.

Fifteen wins and counting. When they return from a tough weekend on the road will it be eighteen and counting? Only time will tell...but until then the players are intent on keeping the momentum going.

"Last year it was a struggle to get the guys motivated for practice. This year, they want to work harder and have the attitude 'Let's get it done,'" said Assistant Coach Kevin Stone.

This weekend, they have games against the Fargo- Moorhead Jets on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, they travel to Minnesota for a game against the Minnesota Blizzard.

The 'DOGS return home next weekend to play the Billings Bulls on Friday and Bismarck Bobcats on Saturday. Friday night is the very popular Moonlight Basin promotion. If the game is sold out and the 'DOGS win, all fans can redeem their game ticket during the 2005-06 season for a FREE lift ticket to Moonlight Basin. (except February 17th through 20th). There is no better way to work off the post- Thanksgiving boredom and extra turkey than coming to an ICEDOGS game! Introduce your visiting friends and relatives to hockey and hopefully earn some free lift tickets in the process.

The Blackhawks (14-5) welcome the Cour d'Alene Colts this Friday and Saturday at 7:35pm. The Blackhawks have remained in first place despite two losses last weekend, but the Colts are closing the gap fast. The Blackhawks are also excited to welcome Bozeman native Dan O'Meara to the team.

Spotlight on Adam Krefski #11

Q: Tell us a little about your playing background. A: I started skating at age three because my brother played and I want to follow in his footsteps. As a squirt, I made my first travel team and played travel ever since. In High School, I played Midget hockey because high school hockey in Michigan is not very good. I moved to Marquette to play for the Electricians with fellow ICEDOG Cody Omilusik at age 16.

Q: What is your favorite memory of your playing career so far? A: When I played for the Michigan Jaguars Midget team, we won the regional qualifier and made the International Silver Sticks Tournament, which we played in for two consecutive years. We won it the first year, and placed second the next year. Also, here in Bozeman I hold the ‘Biggest Fine of the Year,' and one of the highest in the history of the team. "For giving a friend on the opposing team pizza from the Center Ice Club I was fined $20 It was the most expensive slice of pizza I'll ever get," he said with pride.

Q: How do you prepare for a game? A: I wake up and get a little breakfast because it is hard to eat a lot before the team skate. After the skate, I join several other ICEDOGS at Main Street Over Easy. After that I go to Storm's house to play video games and relax. About three hours before the game I eat my pre-game meal of Ramen noodles and chicken fingers and then drive to the rink to chill out, tape my stick and get dressed to play.

Q: What are your plans after you are done playing Juniors? A: I want to get a Division I scholarship, so I am open to wherever I can get one. My preference would be to play at Western Michigan or Miami of Ohio.

Q: What do you like best about Bozeman? A: The fans are awesome by being supportive and always behind the team. It is a great place and a lot of people recognize us because of how small it is. Growing up in the city, I never had a chance to see mountains. We went white water rafting and had a blast.

Hockey Trivia, Sponsored By Murdochs Ranch & Home Supply

Who was the first goalie to be credited with a goal in the NHL?

Did you know that Murdoch's Ranch & Home Supply at 2275 North 7th Avenue has a 7'x 100' jean wall with enough jeans to outfit an army of denim-clad soldiers! Looking for Carhartt, Levi Strauss, Wrangler, Cinch or Lucky? You've come to the right place - Murdoch's has one of the largest selections of jeans in town! Swing by Murdoch's just north of the I-90 interchange and check out what's new in jeans!

Who Is Berno "Inferno"?

If you have ever seen the movie "RADIO" and been to any sporting event in Bozeman, you probably have noticed our very own version of the main movie character. Just like in the movie, the character circles the action with a radio in hand, and is as intense as the coaches or players.

Berno Inferno is the ‘DOGS own "RADIO" personality, and he has been around since the team played in Helena during the 1996-97 season wearing number "00". The ICEDOGS are only Berno's favorite hockey team. He spreads his allegiance between the Bozeman High Hawks and MSU Bobcats as well and sports his customized jersey and radio to fit the team he is behind.

Throughout his 50-plus years of sports participation, Berno has seen it all. When the ‘DOGS began nine years ago, Berno was there and has remained since. He is considered to be one of the original ICEDOGS, helping wash the uniforms and towels. Before every game he cruises the locker room area talking with the players and reminding them to drink lots of water. He also checks to make sure the officials have everything they need. In nine seasons, Berno has missed only a few home games.

"Berno is a joy to have around," Coach John LaFontaine said. "He is always helpful and, willing to do whatever needs to be done to help our trainers, Larry and Kane Thyng, and everything he says is positive. We could be getting beat but he is always positive and I think it helps the guys."

Berno also brings the players a special treat every game. "Bubble Gum used to help me relax when I was playing high school football so I bring a couple of pieces for each player," Berno said. Another treat for the boys is his famous "Four Corners Hockey Speech," and other pre-game pep talks. "Berno is one of a kind," Josh Heidinger said. "The messages that he gives the players before the games are full of pure wisdom. I enjoy every speech and remark Berno makes and the team takes it to heart. He is a great guy to have around the organization."

"His pep talks are always fun," three-year veteran Chris McKelvie said. "They help loosen us up and are always entertaining. He gives his "Four Corners Hockey Speech" before the first game, something we all look forward to." For Berno, it is all about the players, and a true love for the game. When he started nine years ago, he didn't know anything about the game, but after reading about it and being around the Bozeman organization, he has become a resource for information.

Berno graduated from Helena High School in 1974 and has been living in Bozeman for almost 19 years. In addition to being one of the ‘DOGS biggest fans, he also works at the Super 8 and helps recycle cardboard for Reach Incorporated.

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North American Hockey League Stories from November 16, 2005


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