Icedogs dominate exhibitions

Published on September 8, 2004 under North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Bozeman Icedogs News Release


The Fernie Ghostriders are not in the NAHL any longer, but the intensity of the Bozeman ICEDOGS last Friday night would not have given that little detail away. The 'DOGS pummeled the younger Ghostriders 9-0 in a battle that was over before it really began, and were able to work extensively on their passing and shooting skills.

On Saturday, the Bozeman ICEDOGS sent a strong message to the Billings Bulls and the rest of the NAHL- West division that they are ready to play. If anyone entered the arena thinking this was a pre-season game, those thoughts quickly vanished when the puck dropped. Both teams fought a hard battle until the ICEDOGS opened the game up in the third period, sending over 1800 fans home pumped up about this year's team.

ICEDOGS' Goalies Josh Kassel and newcomer Matt Cleveland were very solid in net. Josh Kassel started played during the first 30 minutes of the contest, making 19 saves. Matt Cleveland came in half way through the second period and finished out with 17 saves. The only Billings goal came at the 9:59 mark in the second period when AJ Woodord snuck one past the goal line. The ICEDOGS came out of the locker room in the third with a fury, when Josh Sorenson put the puck in the net at the 16:58 mark, giving Josh Heidinger his first of two assists. About 3 minutes later, Ryan Ward got an easy goal after a series of acrobatic moves by Josh Heidinger. With 2 minutes left in the game, Bill Leahy set up Ryan Bunger for a goal and one minute later Graham McManamin snipered a shot off of a hard rebound from the left face off circle to put the game away 4-1.

This weekend, the 'DOGS face another tough challenge with two games against another fierce rival, the Helena Bighorns. For ICEDOGS Head Coach John LaFontaine, the focus of the week is clear: "We must work on our transition defense, and every player needs to understand what they are responsible for and will be held accountable for. Helena plays at a fast pace with quick transitions and the ability to move from offense to defense will be our key to stopping their scoring punch," he said. The 'Horns offense is powered by Nico Rodriguez, Jeff Olitch, and Travis Whitehead, all veterans in their third year playing at the Junior A level. Bighorn Goalie Chad Beiswenger is also a very solid netminder who is protected by Ken Travis and Eric Griffin. However, the 'DOGS offense should be prepared after working against some of their own teammates on the opposite side of the puck.

After two convincing victories against the Fernie Ghostriders and Billings Bulls, the Bozeman ICEDOGS are back on the prowl this week in preparation for the toughest test so far...two games against the Helena Bighorns. Friday night, the teams battle it out here in Bozeman, and then in Helena on Saturday.

Spotlight on Josh Meyers

Josh Meyers is one of the most consistent defenseman, working hard both on and off the ice. This year, he wants to work on his ofense...and remembers his first goal as a Mighty Mite where he scored from center ice. His defensive intensity was established as a Pee Wee when he tripped an opponent on a breakaway and was sent to the penalty box.

After leaving Bozeman, Josh wants to be remembered for his hard work ethic and playing smart, and intends to spend this season solidifying this reputation. His game day routine is pretty simple...taking a nap and eating a pre-game meal prepared by his billet family. One of his most embarassing moments was dropping his helmet during the National Anthem of his second start for the 'DOGS.

Early in life, Josh developed his work ethic through lawn mowing jobs. He admits he had no business in the lawn care industry because he could barely push the lawnmower, but looks back on it with humor. Since then, he has enjoyed working during the summer months as a caretaker because he gets to work at Rainy Lake. When not working, he loves spending time on his boat fishing. Eventually, he hopes to work with fish for the Department of National Resources.

If granted any three wishes, Josh would want to be happily married with 2 kids, make a living as a professional hockey player, and earn a second income hunting and fishing. The best advice he ever received was from his Grandpa, who told him to "always do it, even if you are scared."

This Weekend's Plans

Friday's game against the Helena Bighorns will be the final home exhibition tune up before the regular season kicks off. Join us for Happy Hour between 6-7pm with 21 Ounce Molson Canadian Draughts for $2.00, and the post- game party at Old Chicago. Friday's National Anthem will be performed by Julie Cummings, and the first Intermission entertainment will be a Torture relay.

Saturday the 'DOGS travel to Helena to take on the Bighorns. For tickets, call the Bighorn Ticket Office at 457-2817. You can also listen live to Voice of the ICEDOGS Mark Martello on 95.1-FM The Moose!

Upcoming Events

Dick Walter Auto Center will be hosting the Red Cross for a Blood Drive this Friday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Call Cari at 556-4214 to schedule an appointment and save a life.

Coaches' Corner starts next Tuesday, September 14th, from 5:30-7:30 at Bennigan's Restaurant. This month's guest will be the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Come to Coaches' Corner and sign up for the JDRF Walkathon on 10/3! Make a $15 donation and get two ICEDOGS tickets, one for the game on 9/17 against the Billings Bulls and one for 10/2 against the MSU Hellcats!

Next Friday, the regular season kicks off with a game against the Billings Bulls and the 'DOGS really need your support at this big game! If this big game has a sellout crowd of 3,200, fans can redeem their game ticket for one FREE round of golf at Big Sky resort! Golf dates are 9/18-9/20, and 9/28-10/10.

ICEDOGS Seek Outrageous Marketing Ideas

Last week, the ICEDOGS had a public relations prank fail....click on the photo for the entire story! Do you have any crazy ideas for marketing our games? If so, we want to hear from you!!! We really want to think outside of the box, and most of the best ideas come from fans like you. If you have an idea, send it to insider@bozemanicedogs.com.

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North American Hockey League Stories from September 8, 2004


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