Icedogs Winning Streak Continues

Published on November 9, 2005 under North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Bozeman Icedogs News Release


The Bozeman ICEDOGS continued their incredible winning streak, now at 13 games, with a dominating performance against the Billings Bulls last weekend. For the ‘DOGS, it was their only game of the weekend and the team played like it.

The "Boys from Bozeman" were once again anchored by the North American Hockey League's best goaltender Matt Dalton. Dalton moved into the top spot this week with a goals against average of 1.55% and a save percentage of .942, after earning his third shutout of the season. Dalton, who earned his ninth victory of the season, picked up his second consecutive shutout, stopping 22 shots in the game.

Bozeman jumped on the Bulls in the first period, scoring three goals and holding the Bulls to only four shots on goal. Jason Krispel found the back of the net after picking up a loose puck that Chris McKelvie kicked into the slot. For Krispel, it was his first goal of the season. Ryan Bunger also added an assist.

Later in the period, with the ‘DOGS on the power play, Josh Heidinger found McKelvie on the back door for the one timer, beating Aaron Damjanovich through the five hole. It was McKelvie's fifth power play goal of the season, tied for third best in the league. For the team, it was their 21st goal on 78 attempts as they lead the league with a 26.92 power play percentage.

Under a minute later, Pete Fylling picked up a loose puck in the corner and threw it at the net. A few deflections later, it was behind Damjanovich as the spirit of the Bulls was knocked out of the arena.

In the second, Bozeman added to their lead when Mark Columbus hammered home a shot that was sitting on the doorstep for the 4-0 lead. Brett Barta and Cody Omilusik tallied assists. Heidinger went to work in the corner, battling for a loose puck off a face off. He fell to one knee, got up, spun off a check, dodged another, walked in front and beat Damjanovich with the backhand. Bozeman again only gave up four shots on goal in the period.

In the third, Josh Heidinger added salt to the wound by intercepting the pass and driving into the slot, where he released a shot he calls "Standard", low stick side for the sixth and final goal. Billings battled hard in the third, but Dalton denied all 14 shots he faced in the final period.

Bozeman kept their winning streak alive at 13 games. They look to improve on the streak on Friday and Saturday nights when they host the Wasilla Spirit at the Valley Ice Garden. Face off is scheduled for 7:05 PM.

Some fans are beginning to call this year's ICEDOGS team the best ever. With so many games remaining in the 2005-06 season, this label is certainly pre mature...but the team is definitely drawing attention for the current 13 game winning streak.

Friday, the ICEDOGS welcome the third place Wasilla Spirit (9-14) in their first of back-to-back games at the Valley Ice Garden. Join the team after Friday's game for their post-game party at Old Chicago!

Saturday night is a Pepsi Family Night sponsored by Darigold! Get four tickets, four Pepsis, and a bucket of popcorn for $25 Stick around afterward for a FREE post-game skate. Bring in any clean Darigold or Country Classic product label and get a FREE child bench ticket.

Last weekend, Wasilla had a 1-0 shootout win and a 3-6 loss to the Texas Tornado. The Spirit are led in scoring by #22 veteran David Gault with 15 points. Rookie forward #18 Richard Leitner is not far behind with 12 points.

The Blackhawks (14-3) are on the road for two games against the Cour d'Alene Colts. The Blackhawks have remained in first place with two wins against Butte and one against Queen City last weekend.

The Montana State University Hellcats will be playing on Friday and Saturday night against Eastern Washington following the ICEDOGS game on Friday and post-game skate on Saturday. Visit the Hellcats website for more information.

Spotlight on Michael Schumacher #10

Q: Tell us a little about your playing background? A: I started playing when I was a Squirt, skating with my friends, just for fun. I moved up to Peewee's and then on to Bantams. I started playing competitively in Bantams and then went to play for my high school team. I was Captain of Duluth East my senior season. We took third in state that season and it was our third trip in three seasons to the state tournament.

Q: What is your favorite memory of your playing career so far? A: Going to the Minnesota State Hockey Tournament was a really cool experience. We played in front of sold out crowds and in huge arenas. Just getting the time with the guys on my team and making it so far was really exciting.

Q: How do you prepare for a game? A: I wake-up in the morning and usually get a light breakfast, yogurt and a waffle. Then I head to the morning skate and after that, home for a nap until it is time to go to the rink. Once there I just get set for the game, stretch and mentally prepare for the game. I'm not superstitious, I just do what I feel like doing.

Q: What are your plans after you're done playing Juniors? A: I want to go back home and play for the University of Minnesota-Duluth. It would be awesome to get a chance to play for the Bulldogs because they always have a good team. I am thinking about Marketing or Engineering for my degree but not really sure what path I want to head down.

Q: What do you like best about Bozeman? A: The mountains and streams around Bozeman make this scenery awesome. I like to hunt and fish so I have the opportunities around here to do that. I shot a few gophers the other day with teammate Devin Hartigan and I taken my shots at some fly-fishing. I also like the fans, they are great and so supportive. The Management and coaching staff is also the best around.

Hockey Trivia, Sponsored By Murdochs Ranch & Home Supply

Which team was notoriously nicknamed the "Broad Street Bullies?"

Did you know that Murdoch's Ranch & Home Supply at 2275 North 7th Avenue is one of the largest Carhartt dealers west of the Mississippi and they're proud to carry all the newest Carhartt styles and colors. Stay warm in Carhartt gear this winter while watching your ICEDOGS! Look for the latest in Carhartt accessories including knit hats, gloves, caps and belts. If you like Sherpa lining, you'll love the Carhartt classic cape coat back for this season only! Looking for fleece? Carhartt's got it! Come see the new fleece-lined jacket and coat. Swing by Murdoch's just north of the I-90 interchange and check out what's new with Carhartt!

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



North American Hockey League Stories from November 9, 2005


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.

OurSports Central