Saturday 31 August 2013

Recap: SEA 6 - VIC 5 (Shoot Out)

Royals Joe Hicketts had 2 assists, and winds up on the power play
Alex Delnov scored three times as the Seattle Thunderbirds came from behind to beat the Victoria Royals 6-5 in a shoot out Saturday afternoon at Everett’s Pre-Season Classic Tournament.

The Royals held two goal leads three times, but ran into penalty trouble surrendering 3 power play goals on 7 Thunderbird opportunities. 

“The biggest key in this game probably was to stay out of the (penalty) box, we were fine 5 on 5…” said Royals forward Austin Carroll, who scored a goal and also threw a big hit on Austin Douglas.

“Once we strayed from (putting pucks to the net) we started falling apart a bit.”


Victoria pummelled Seattle netminder Devon Fordyce with rubber, outshooting Seattle 56-34, with the biggest margin of 26-8 in the middle frame.

“I think a lot more was done today (offensively), unfortunately we didn’t put enough in the net…”
said GM Cam Hope who felt it was nice to see an improvement on the consistency of the club’s execution, after the 2-1 loss to Everett the night before.

“We got into a little bit of penalty trouble and Seattle was able to claw their way back.”

Phillips denied in Shoot out
The Royals got highlight reel goals from Logan Nelson and 15 year old Matthew Phillips who slipped past the defense and scored five-hole.

“Yeah, Phillips my roomate had a nice goal, so good for him.” said Carroll with a proud smile.  “It’s good to see all the young guys contributing and getting into the game – it’s going to be fun to see them over the next couple years.”

Phillips had several great chances, and was coming off an impressive performance the night before.

Wasn’t that something?”  said a grinning Hope, who also liked all five rookies in the line up. “He could’ve had more than one too…great performance by (Phillips), he’s still smiling ear to ear.”

The rookies dressed were Phillips, Jared Dmytriw, Matthew Campese, Regan Nagy and Landon Welykholowa.

Victoria who held leads of 3-1, 4-2 and 5-3 also got goals from Luke Harrison, Austin Carroll and Trent Lofthouse.  Three Royals chipped in with a pair of helpers each, Logan Fisher, Keegan Kanzig and Joe Hicketts.
Royals Bench
Coleman Vollrath stopped 29 of 34 shots, including the save of the game late in the 3rd off of Holub.

“Vollrath was good, you really can’t blame a goalie who lets five goals in when a lot of them were close-in shots or rebounds.” said Hope, “…and boy did he make a couple of saves in this game…right at the end he made a glove save that was a ’10 Bell’ save…

Vollrath in the Shoot Out
The shootout went four deep, with Nelson, Ben Walker (goal), Lofthouse, and Phillips for Victoria. Matthew Barzal the 1st overall selection in 2012, and Anaheim draft pick Shea Theodore scored in the shootout for Seattle.

The club falls to 0-1-0-1 in pre-season.

With 29 players on the roster, the Royals scratched: Hodges, J Walker, Soy, Magee, Fushimi, Dykstra, Schacher, Reddekopp, and Herringer.

Victoria faces Tri City Sunday at 11:30, with the game being held in Everett as part of their annual pre-season tournament. 

The Royals will face the Giants at the SOFMC for their only home pre-season date Saturday Sept. 14th at 1:35pm and wrap up the 5 game exhibition schedule the following day against Vancouver in Ladner at 2pm.

By Marlon Martens

Victoria Royals 5 at Seattle Thunderbirds 6 - SO
Saturday, August 31, 2013 - Comcast Arena - Everett, WA

Victoria 1 2 2 0 0 - 5
Seattle 1 1 3 0 1- 6

1st Period-
1, Victoria, Nelson 2 (Welykholowa, Hicketts), 15:55.
2, Seattle, Delnov 1 (Bear, Wardley), 17:56 (PP).

Penalties-Bear Sea (high sticking), 2:05; Kanzig Vic (cross checking), 8:18; Bear Sea (interference), 13:42; Kanzig Vic (hooking), 16:41; Douglas Sea (cross checking), 19:34.

2nd Period-
3, Victoria, Phillips 1 (Kanzig, Hicketts), 1:21.
4, Victoria, Harrison 1 (Fisher, Kanzig), 7:38.
5, Seattle, Elder 1 (Wardley), 8:00.

Penalties-Fransoo Vic (interference), 0:08; Honey Sea (roughing), 3:32; Cote Vic (hooking), 3:53; Delnov Sea (hooking), 4:13; Theodore Sea (cross checking), 8:28; Nagy Vic (tripping), 14:11; Kolesar Sea (hooking), 18:08; Hauf Sea (checking from behind), 19:42.

3rd Period-
6, Victoria, Carroll 1 (Fransoo, Walker), 0:29 (PP).
7, Seattle, Delnov 2 (Bear, Honey), 1:48.
8, Victoria, Lofthouse 1 (Fisher, Dixon), 7:00.
9, Seattle, Delnov 3   10:15 (PP).
10, Seattle, Barzal 2 (Honey, Elliot), 17:28 (PP).

Penalties-Walker Vic (slashing), 9:40; Carroll Vic (roughing), 15:26; Fisher Vic (delay of game), 15:47.

OT Period-
No Scoring.

Penalties-No Penalties

Shootout –
Victoria 1 (Nelson NG, Walker G, Lofthouse NG, Phillips NG),
Seattle 2 (Delnov NG, Barzal G, Sheen NG, Theodore G).

Shots on Goal-
Victoria 12-26-15-3-56.
Seattle 11-8-14-1-34.

Power Play Opportunities-
Victoria 1 / 8;
Seattle 3 / 7.

Goalies-
Victoria, Vollrath 0-0-0-0 (34 shots-29 saves).
Seattle, Fordyce 0-0-0-0 (56 shots-51 saves).

A-0
Referees-Nick Swaine (35), Andrew Wilk (80).
Linesmen-Jarrod Boman (116), Kevin Boris (95).

Friday 30 August 2013

Recap: Silvertips 2 - Royals 1

The Everett Silvertips edged the visiting Victoria Royals 2-1 Friday night, in the opening game of exhibition.

The Tips led 2-0 after 40 minutes on goals by Reid Petryk and Linden Penner, before Logan Nelson cut the lead in half in the third.  The Royals pulled the netminder for an extra attacker but fell short.

“It think it was good.  The first two periods we were getting our legs under us little bit, getting familiar with our teammates…we have to look at it as a learning experience…” said Nelson, the 5th round pick of the Buffalo Sabres.

After giving up 19 shots past the midway point of the second, Victoria held Everett to just 6 for the rest of the game, but were kept to just 18 of their own.

“In the third period we started generating more, we started attacking and we actually starting working for some of our chances.” - Head Coach Dave Lowry.

While the first half of the game could be attributed to the nerves of the some of the rookies playing their first WHL exhibition game, none seemed evident for 15 year old Matthew Phillips, aka ‘Bubba’.  A definite bright spot in the game, generating opportunities and even several encounters with 1st round pick of the San Jose Sharks, 18yr old Mirco Mueller. 

“We matched up a few times over battles for loose pucks…trying to get some rebounds I think I was bugging him a little bit - I was just working hard and we bumped into each other a few times.
” said Phillips, the Royals 2013 2nd round bantam selection.

Phillips was put on the ice in the final minute down a goal with the netminder pulled looking for the equalizer.

“It was really special to be chosen by coach Lowry to be out in the last minute…I was just shaking before the puck dropped.  I was trying to do all I could to get that puck in the net but unfortunately I couldn’t do it.  It was a good learning experience.”

Lowry liked the passion and effort of the younger players.

“I really like the play of our young guys, they came and competed and played hard.”

On the flip side, some of the older players may feel extra pressure from the up and coming Royals.

"One good thing about tonight is it’s a wake up call for some of the guys that played on our club last year, they’re going to have to be a lot better.  I think some of the guys might have forgotten what the expectations are here and how you have to work.  The best thing is you get 3 games in 3 days and a quick rememdy for some of these guys.”

Patrik Polivka and Coleman Vollrath split the duties for the Royals, with Polivka making a highlight reel save in the first stopping 17 of 19.  Vollrath came in the game in the second period, stopping all 6 shots he faced.

Their counterpart, Austin Lotz kicked out 17 of 18 Victoria attempts.

Both clubs went 1 for 5 on the power play.

The Royals played a physical game with noteable hits by Ryan Gagnon on Carson Stadynk, and Jordan Fransoo (wearing the ‘C’) on Brayden Low.

“I think it was just a product of the environment…it was a veteran laden team, it was home game for them, we knew they were going to come (at us), they have a new coach (Kevin Constantine) and they’re all playing for the same opportunity…”  said Lowry on the Royals feistiness.

Nelson also laid out several big hits, none however as thunderous a check as he laid onto defenseman Kevin Davis.

“It’s part of my game I need to work on, playing fast and physical every night.  That’s what I have to do, finish my checks and I got a good bounce in front of the net and put it home – I was glad with my finish.” said Nelson who’ll play for Buffalo at the Traverse City Prospects Tournament Sept 5-9th.

“I need to get stronger and little bigger and gain some weight, but they liked my heavy game and the way I can finish with the puck.” When asked what the Sabres liked, and wanted Nelson to improve on.

With 29 players on the roster, the Royals scratched: Lofthouse, Hodges, Welykholowa, Campese, Magee, Nagy, Hicketts, Reddekopp (lower), and Herringer (lower).

Earlier in the day, the club issued a press release noting the signing of a trio of players; Landon Welykholowa, Matt Dykstra and Jared Dmytriw.

Victoria faces Seattle at 3pm on Saturday, and Tri City Sunday at 11:30, with all games being held in Everett as part of their annual pre-season tournament.

By Marlon Martens

Victoria Royals 1 at Everett Silvertips 2 - Status: Final
Friday, August 30, 2013 - Comcast Arena - Everett, WA

Victoria 0 0 1 - 1
Everett 1 1 0 - 2

1st Period-
1, Everett, Petryk 1 (Leedahl), 13:05.

Penalties-Adam Evt (slashing), 7:43; Carroll Vic (interference), 8:05; Winquist Evt (checking from behind), 8:50.

2nd Period-
2, Everett, Penner 1 (Pufahl), 7:39 (PP).

Penalties-Pufahl Evt (tripping), 2:13; Crunk Vic (roughing), 7:30; Phillips Vic (hooking), 9:01; Dykstra Vic (tripping), 15:55.

3rd Period-
3, Victoria, Nelson 1 (Soy), 6:01 (PP).

Penalties-Lotz Evt (delay of game), 0:17; Adam Evt (hooking), 5:23; Dixon Vic (cross checking, major-fighting, game misconduct), 6:51; Low Evt (major-fighting, game misconduct), 6:51; Carroll Vic (roughing), 11:33; Adam Evt (slashing), 11:33; Walker Vic (roughing, major-fighting, game misconduct), 16:09; Penner Evt (major-fighting, game misconduct), 16:09.

Shots on Goal-
Victoria 8-5-5-18.
Everett 12-7-6-25.

Power Play Opportunities-
Victoria 1 / 5;
Everett 1 / 5.

Goalies-
Victoria, Polivka 0-1-0-0 (19 shots-17 saves); Vollrath 0-0-0-0 (6 shots-6 saves).
Everett, Lotz 1-0-0-0 (18 shots-17 saves).

A-0
Referees-Ryan Benbow (62), Adam Griffiths (36).
Linesmen-Adam Brastad (132).

Royals Sign Welykholowa, Dykstra & Dmytriw



ROYALS INK TRIO OF PLAYERS
Victoria signs forwards Landon Welykholowa, Matt Dykstra and Jared Dmytriw.

For Immediate Release
Friday, August 30, 2013

Victoria, BC – The Victoria Royals Hockey Club is proud to announce that the club has signed forwards Landon Welykholowa (WELL-uh-call-oh-ah), Matt Dykstra (DYKE-struh) and Jared Dmytriw (duh-MEE-true) to Western Hockey League (WHL) Standard Players’ Agreements.

Landon Welykholowa

The Calgary, AB native signs with Victoria after being invited to participate in the Royals’ 2013 Training Camp. Welykholowa was originally selected by the Prince Albert Raiders in the third round, 58th overall, of the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft.

Welykholowa spent the 2012-13 hockey season as a member of the Calgary Buffaloes of the Alberta Midget Hockey League. With the Buffaloes, the 5-11, 165 lb winger appeared in 34 games and registered 26 points (12g-14a) along with 78 minutes in penalties. Welykholowa also skated in three games for the Alberta Junior Hockey League’s Brooks Bandits.

“Landon had a very good camp this week,” Royals’ General Manager Cameron Hope said. “He has earned this contract and we look forward to seeing Landon in a Royals’ uniform.”

Matt Dykstra

Dykstra, a resident of Edmonton, AB was selected by the Royals in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft with the 71st overall pick in the fourth round.

Last year, the 6-2, 180 lb centre played with the Canadian Athletic Club (CAC) United Cycle of the Alberta Minor Midget AAA Hockey League. Dykstra scored 47 points (25g-22a) along with 22 penalty minutes in 27 games played. With CAC’s Bantam AAA team in 2011-12 season, he collected 34 points (16g-18a) and 86 penalty minutes over 33 contests in the Alberta Major Bantam Hockey League.

“Matt developed well over the course of last season,” Hope said. “He has worked hard to improve his strength and abilities and we are excited to have Matt as a part of our future.”

Jared Dmytriw

The Royals selected Jared Dmytriw in the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft with the 83rd overall pick in the fourth round. The 5-8, 150 lb right winger is scheduled to play the 2013-14 season with the Moose Jaw Generals of the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League.

The Craven, SK native suited up for the Prairie Storm of the Saskatchewan Bantam AA League last year where he served as the team’s captain. In 27 appearances, Dmytriw scored 49 points (29g-20a) and logged 44 penalty minutes.

“We were very happy that Jared was available to us at the draft last May,” Hope said. “Jared plays a 200-foot game and can contribute offensively with his speed and skill.”

The Royals will travel south of the border today to begin their 2013 WHL Pre-Season schedule. Victoria will head down to Everett, WA to play three games this weekend against the Everett Silvertips, Seattle Thunderbirds and Tri-City Americans. The Royals’ only home pre-season contest will come Saturday, September 14th when the club welcomes the Vancouver Giants to Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre. An afternoon puck drop is slated for 1:35 p.m.

We are Royal Blue, are you? 2013-14 season ticket packages starting from $414 are on sale now! To guarantee yourself the best seats at the best prices call 250-220-7889, visit www.victoriaroyals.com, or head down to the Victoria Royals Ticketing Office located at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.

Thursday 29 August 2013

Recap: Intra-Squad Game

Intra-Squad Game Action
15 year old Matthew Campese had a goal and assist, including the winner as Team White defeated Team Blue 3-2 Wednesday night at the Victoria Royals Intra Squad game, closing out main camp.

Matthew Campese (1g 1a)
“There are a lot of positives, I like the play of our young guys…” said Head Coach Dave Lowry following the contest, about the camp in general.

“We’ve got some guys that are a year older, a year wiser and overall some guys have played extremely well.”

The Royals trimmed their roster down after the game and will look to take about 25 players to Everett to play 3 exhibition games this weekend, starting Friday.

“We’ve got some guys that have earned an opportunity to stay around and play and there’ll be some other tough decisions we’ll have to make.”

Defenseman Brett Cote also had a goal and an assist for Team Blue as they saw their 1-0 first period lead disappear with 3 unanswered second period goals by Team White. 

Trent Loftouse (1g)
15 year old Brayden Dunn (4th rd ’13) one timed a pass from Cote past Vollrath in the first period for Team Blue, while Kolton Dixon, Trent Lofthouse and Campese replied for Team White in the middle frame.  Cote had the lone third period tally.

Campese a 3rd round draft pick in 2012 (late birthday), had the goal of the game, as he broke in alone and deked netminder Markus Daly.

“Not going to lie, I was kind of nervous coming in.  As the game went along I felt better and it was nice to score that goal." said Campese who worked hard all summer, putting on some muscle in the process with a roster spot in mind.

“It would mean a lot…to play at this level would be a huge honour.”

He’s among several 16 year olds looking to crack the line up along with Tyler Soy (1a), Chaz Reddekopp (did not play) and Regan Nagy.

“Those are guys you focus in on, but you also want to see other guys come in and challenge and surprise.” said Lowry

The four netminders who dressed split playing time.  Coleman Vollrath (20/21) and Colorado’s Evan Smith (16/17) who’s 6’6 at just 16 years of age played for Team White.  Team Blue went with Markus Daly (15/17) of the South Island Royals and 15 year old Griffen Outhouse (21/22) from Williams Lake, who clearly impressed.

“…he was good…” said Lowry on the undrafted Outhouse.

“You want to see them (Daly, Smith, Outhouse) go out, and see how they perform - especially on a stage like tonight.”

Team White outshot Team Blue 39-38 after being out shot 15-11 in the first. Team White went 0/1 on powerplay, while Team Blue went 0/3.

38 players dressed, but 9 did not including forwards Logan Nelson, Ben Walker, Steven Hodges, and Brandon Magee.  Defenseman Jordan Fransoo, Joe Hicketts and Chaz Reddekopp, plus netminders Patrik Polivka and Michael Herringer all did not play.

Victoria’s first 3 exhibition games are in Everett where they face the Silvertips this Friday August 30th at 7pm, the Seattle Thunderbirds at 3pm Saturday, and the Tri City Americans Sunday at 11:30 am.

The Royals have one home exhibition date on Saturday Sept 14th at 1:35 vs Vancouver at the SOFMC.

They conclude the 5 game pre-season the following afternoon in Ladner vs the same Giants at 2 pm.

Opening weekend for Victoria is on the road in Vancouver Friday Sept. 20th, and the home opener the following night against the same Giants.

Catch all the regular season Play by Play action on The Zone @ 91.3 FM

-Marlon Martens

Intra Squad Game Summary
August 28, 2013
SOFMC

Goals:
1st
Blue, Dunn (Cote, Gaume) 9:22

2nd
White, Dixon (Jones, Campese) :15
White, Lofthouse (Baker, Soy) 12:06
White, Campese (unassisted) 15:08

3rd
Blue, Cote (Marshall, Dykstra) 1:30

Shots:

Blue (38) 15-7-16
White (39) 11-17-11

Goaltenders:

Blue
Outhouse 21 for 22,
Daly 15 for 17

White
Vollrath 20 for 21
Smith 16 for 17

Tuesday 27 August 2013

Phillips & Jarratt Sign, Update on Soy & Magee

The Victoria Royals signed their two second round 2013 Bantam picks.  15 year old Forward Matthew Phillips (33rd) and defenceman Ralph Jarratt (37th) were inked to WHL Standard Players’ Agreements Tuesday.

Matt Phillips
Phillips was recently shortlisted for his province’s Under-16 squad as he made Team Alberta’s list in preparation for the 2013 Western Canada U-16 Challenge Cup. The 15 year old 5’6 and 130 lb forward had 40 goals and 77 points with the Calgary Bisons last season.

“I’m a two way forward and I like to use my speed to my advantage.  Chances are I’m not going bull someone over but I like to win battles…”

Grant Armstrong, the Royals Director of Player Personnel knows Phillips can take of himself.

“He’s been outstanding (Rookie Camp), everything bounces off of him he’s just an electrifying little player…it’s fun to watch.”

Ralph Jarratt
Reargaurd Ralph Jarratt tallied 29 points (3g-26a) and 66 penalty minutes in 28 games with Pursuit of Excellence last year.   He models himself after Chicago Blackhawks Duncan Keith, who gave his team a speech in Penticton once, and has followed him ever since.

“I’m a stay at home, shut down defenseman.  I can contribute offensively…I’ve become more physical over the past year.”

The 6’2 175 lb Fort St. John native grew up helping out on the family hay farm.

He plans on returning to play for the POE.

“I really enjoyed it there, good training, good coaches.”

Tyler Soy
Last year’s first round selection, 16 year old forward Tyler Soy (8th overall ’12) is eager to crack the Royals line up this season after a great showing at the U-17 Team Pacific Summer Camp in Calgary.

“Our Team Red won 3 of the 4 games…I scored a couple goals and got a some assists, but overall our team just played really well.”

Soy suited up along side fellow first round pick, defenseman defenseman Chaz Reddekopp.

“I think we’re going to have a really good team this year, hopefully I can make that  team (Pacific)…”

Soy played 7 games with the Royals last season, plus playoffs and has come into camp in top shape.

“I guess I have to give a lot of credit to my trainer Peter Glover.  A lot of work on the track, and on the hills doing different sprints – I guess that really helped me.”

Soy knows competition will be tough for the few rookie spots on the team with Reddekopp, along with F Matthew Campese and F Regan Nagy in the mix.

“I want to make a good impression and earn my spot on the team and just keep giving it my all - do my best to make the team successful.”


Brandon Magee
At the other end of the spectrum, 19 year old forward Brandon Magee is back with more to prove after not being invited back to an NHL camp over the summer.

“Hopefully this year I can put up some better numbers and hopefully get a camp invite again somewhere …”

Last summer the undrafted Edmonton native skated with the Oilers prospects.

“Obviously it’s disappointing after going to a camp your first year and not your second, but it’s motivation and something to strive for.”

With the letter on his jersey, he looks to continue on with his leadership role and provide the necessary spark for the team.

“I’m kind of the guy they look to, to get the team going…”

Main Camp wraps up Wednesday night with the Intra-Squad game at 7:05 at the SOFMC admission by donation, with all proceeds going towards the GoodLife Fitness Children’s Foundation.

In conjunction with broadcast partners The Zone @ 91.3 and 100.3 The Q!, the Royals will be selling hot dogs, popcorn and pop for only $1.00! Vouchers for dollar dogs, popcorn and pop are available for download and print from  http://www.thezone.fm/events/#royalsintrasquad

Exhibition starts this Friday with 3 games.  They’ll face the Silvertips, Thunderbirds and Americans – all in Everett.

Royals sign Phillips & Jarratt



ROYALS SIGN DRAFT PICKS PHILLIPS AND JARRATT
Victoria inks forward Matthew Phillips and defenceman Ralph Jarratt.

For Immediate Release
Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Victoria, BC – The Victoria Royals Hockey Club is proud to announce that the club has signed forward Matthew Phillips and defenceman Ralph Jarratt to Western Hockey League (WHL) Standard Players’ Agreements.

“We are very happy to announce the signings of Matthew Phillips and Ralph Jarratt,” Royals’ General Manager Cameron Hope said. “They are two very special players and we welcome them to the Western Hockey League and the Victoria Royals.”

Matthew Phillips

The Royals selected Calgary’s Matthew Phillips with their second round, 33rd overall, pick of the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft. Phillips was recently shortlisted for his province’s Under-16 squad as he made Team Alberta’s list in preparation for the 2013 Western Canada U-16 Challenge Cup.

During the 2012-13 season, Phillips played with the Calgary Bisons of the Alberta Major Bantam Hockey League (AMBHL). The 5-6, 130 lb winger appeared in 37 games for the Bisons and scored 77 points (40g-37a) to go along with eight minutes in penalties.

“We were excited to be able to draft Matthew to the Victoria Royals in May,” Hope said. “Matthew has an abundance of speed and skill that generates excitement whenever he’s on the ice. He has great potential and a bright future in the Western Hockey League.”

Ralph Jarratt

Victoria used their second pick of round two in the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft to take Ralph Jarratt 37th overall. Hailing from Fort St. John, BC, Jarratt spent the 2012-13 hockey season in BC with the Pursuit of Excellence (POE) Bantam AAA program. The 6-1, 170 lb defenceman tallied 29 points (3g-26a) and 66 penalty minutes in 28 games with POE last year.

“Ralph was the first defenceman we chose in this year’s draft,” Hope said. “In camp, he exceeded our expectations at both ends of the ice and we are excited to have Ralph in Royals’ colours for the years to come.”

Phillips and Jarratt will each suit up for Team Renyard in the final game of the Royals’ 2013 Main Camp this evening. Puck drop is set for 5:00 p.m. at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.

We are Royal Blue, are you? 2013-14 season ticket packages starting from $414 are on sale now! To guarantee yourself the best seats at the best prices call 250-220-7889, visit www.victoriaroyals.com, or head down to the Victoria Royals Ticketing office at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.

-30-

Monday 26 August 2013

Main Camp: Day 1 (Hodges & Vollrath)

Team Quigley’s 8-5 win over Team Smith
The Victoria Royals opening day of main camp wrapped up Monday evening with Team Quigley’s 8-5 win over Team Smith at the SOFMC.

54 players are in attendance, split into 3 teams - with Team Renyard rounding out the squads.

Jiri Fronk, the Royals 31st overall pick in the European draft earlier this summer was not in atttendance.  The 19 year old 6’4 forward from the Czech Republic is being held back by contractual issues, and Victoria is waiting on the IIHF’s ruling within a week.

Steven Hodges
Forward Steven Hodges (3rd rd Florida ’12) was back on the ice having added 18 pounds to his frame over the summer.

He’s one of four Royals invited to NHL rookie camps but it’s very likey he will not being going because a minor injury that could require surgery.

“It’s just minor surgery that needs to be taken care of.” said Hodges after Monday’s scrimmage, “We’re going to hopefully get it done and then get back as soon as possible.”

It would be the second year in a row Hodges would miss Florida camp, with last year being due to the NHL lock out.

“In a way I can look at it as a positive for me, so when they see me for the first time playing against the older guys I’ll be more mature and more ready - and I’ll make a good appearance.”

Game 1 action of Main Camp
Other NHL camp invitees include Logan Nelson (5th rd Buffalo ‘12), Keegan Kanzig (3rd rd Calgary ‘13) and Ben Walker (Minnesota, Unsigned – Invitee).  They could miss parts of the Royals exhibition season or longer depending on how well they perform.  All attended NHL Development Camps earlier this summer and are participating in Prospect Tournaments from Sept 5-9th.

Coleman Vollrath
Between the pipes, netminder Patrik Polivka will be looking over his shoulder as Coleman Vollrath will be vying for the number one spot.

“My goal is to definitely push for the starting job here…” Vollrath said after the scrimmage. “It felt good out there. “

After appearing in 27 games for the Royals last season, he did some fishing in Mexico with his Dad to recharge the batteries.  Then Vollrath went to work, hitting the gym 6 days a week, plus skating 4 to 5 days a week in Calgary.  He also skated with Head Coach Dave Lowry at his Pro Ice times to help prepare.

6'6 Evan Smith
“Coming into camp you have to prove yourself all over again you can’t take anything for granted.”

Four other goaltenders are battling for spots including Victoria Cougars Michael Herringer (9th rd pick ’11), and South Island Royal Markus Daly (5th rd in ’12).  They’ll be fighting for a spot alongside rookie camp attendee Griffen Outhouse (’98 from Williams Lake) and 6’6 Evan Smith from Colorado (NAPHL) who looked imposing Monday night.

“There’s a lot of good goalies and we’re all pushing for the same job, all I can do is go and give it my best every day and let the chips fall where they may.” Said the an upbeat and positive Vollrath.

Games resume Tuesday morning at the SOFMC with Team Renyard facing off againstTeam Quigley at 10:15 a.m.
Camp Schedule
Main Camp wraps up Wednesday with the intra-squad game is by donation that evening at 7.

The Camp concludes with the Royals’ 2013 Intra-Squad Game on Wednesday, August 28th at 7:05 p.m. at SOFMC.  Admission is by donation to the GoodLife Fitness Children’s Foundation.

All on-ice sessions during camp are open to the public.

Find the training camp schedule here:

http://victoriaroyals.com/article/royals-announce-2013-training-camp-schedule

Victoria’s first 3 exhibition games are in Everett where they face the Silvertips August 30th at 7pm, the Seattle Thunderbirds at 3pm Saturday Aug 31st, and the Tri City Americans Sunday Sept. 1st at 11:30 am.

The Royals have one home exhibition date on Saturday Sept 14th at 1:35 vs Vancouver at the SOFMC.

They conclude the 5 game pre-season the following afternoon in Ladner vs the same Giants at 2 pm.

Opening weekend for Victoria is on the road in Vancouver Friday Sept. 20th, and the home opener the following night against the same Giants.

Catch all the regular season Play by Play action on The Zone @ 91.3 FM

-Marlon Martens

Royals Camp Without Czech Jiri Fronk

Cleve Dheensaw of the Times Colonist breaks down why Import forward Jiri Fronk isn't at Victoria Royals Main camp which opens today:

Link:
http://www.timescolonist.com/sports/victoria-royals-get-ready-for-camp-without-czech-star-jiri-fronk-1.600784

Story Below:

Victoria Royals get ready for camp without Czech star Jiri Fronk

Cleve Dheensaw / Times Colonist
August 24, 2013

The Victoria Royals open main camp Monday with 54 players expected.

But one of them won’t be 19-year-old forward Jiri Fronk, taken 31st overall by Victoria earlier this summer in the European draft conducted by the Canadian Hockey League.

The six-foot-four Fronk, who had a breakout summer with the Czech U-19 team with six goals in eight games, is embroiled in a tug-of-war with his current club team. Fronk had 10 goals and 24 points in 40 games last season for the KLH Chomutov U-20s.

“It’s very complicated,” said Royals GM Cam Hope.

“There is a disagreement regarding his status with his Czech club team. He wants to come to Victoria to play. His Czech club feels it has a right contractually to keep him. We’re waiting to hear back from the IIHF [the international hockey governing body, which will rule] within a week.”

The Royals went with the unusual move of taking a 19-year-old in the European draft, rather than a younger player who could have stayed longer with the team, because Victoria feels it could be on the verge of a dramatic move up the Western Hockey League tables with a solid cast of returnees. It includes Logan Nelson, Steven Hodges, Ben Walker, Brandon Magee, Austin Carroll, Jordan Fransoo, Brett Cote, Trent Lofthouse, Keegan Kanzig, Joe Hicketts and goaltender Patrick Polivka.

Each team in the CHL — of which the WHL is a member — is allowed two European import players. The Royals are hoping Fronk gets to fill that second spot. The first is held by Polivka, who arrives in camp as the clear No. 1 between the pipes.

Polivka will be pushed by returning backup Coleman Vollrath and rookies Michael Herringer of Comox, who showed well in two late-season appearances last spring, Markus Daly of Victoria and the intriguing six-foot-seven Evan Smith from Colorado.

“They will all be pushing for jobs,” Hope said. “Whoever performs the best will get the job as the starter.”

Meanwhile, Hope expects all the Royals bantam draft picks from 2012 and 2013 to move on to main camp along with seven to 10 invitees from the rookie camp, which concludes today.

“A lot of these [rookies] performed well and made decisions tough for us this week,” Hope said.

The Royals’ two most touted 16-year-old rookies — forward Tyler Soy and blueliner Chaz Reddekopp — were given a pass directly to main camp and didn’t have to skate in rookie camp.

Main camp opens Monday morning with fitness testing and the first on-ice session at Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre at 3:45 p.m., followed by the first scrimmage at 5 p.m. The intra-squad game is by donation Wednesday evening at 7.

The Royals’ five-game exhibition schedule commences Friday in Everett, Wash.

Nelson (Sabres), Hodges (Panthers), Walker (Wild) and Kanzig (Flames) have been invited to NHL rookie camps and could miss parts of the Royals exhibition season, and even potentially the start of the Royals regular season, depending on whether they advance to NHL main camps.

Victoria’s regular season opens Sept. 20 at the PNE Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver against the Giants, with the first home date the next night against the Giants.

cdheensaw@timescolonist.com

© Copyright 2013

Sunday 25 August 2013

GM Cam Hope: Rookie & Main Camp

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The traditional handshake after the final Rookie camp game credit: @victoriaroyals
Victoria Royals Rookie Camp wrapped up Sunday morning at the SOFMC with Team Blue’s 8-2 win over Team White. 

Victoria GM Cam Hope was impressed with the 97’s and ’98 born players overall, plus selected invites this year.

“We kept our camp small this year, and super competitive…divided into 3 teams and let them go at it.  It’s been a terrific week.

From the 55 man Rookie Camp about 20 players will progress to Main Camp, plus they’ll add 7 to 9 guys who are invitees for a second look.  There will be a considerable size difference between players, some 5 years apart.

…It’s a little harder for the ’98 born players to play against the ‘94-’93 age group – but that’s part of the fun of it.

The two US born players F Ethan Frank (4th rd) from Omaha, and D Matt Hellickson (5th rd) out of Rogers Minnesota, by all indications were impressed by the city and had a positive experience thus far.

“They loved it…we went whale watching – in this case ‘ocean watching’, but we did see a whale from a distance...”  joked Hope.

“I think they had a great time.  It’s difficult for them because they have a tough decision to make, to commit to the WHL, but I think this went a long way towards helping them make that decision.”


Main Camp opens Monday (Aug 26th) with returning players coming to camp bigger, stronger, faster after obviously having eaten their ‘Wheaties’.

“Keegan Kanzig (Flames 3rd rd Pick) is 6’7 250, it looks like Jack Walker has put on some size and weight, Isaac Schacher (shocker) is still 6’5 but looks like he’s put on some muscle…we’re excited about what we’re going to see (this) week.”

With four 16 year old’s playing regularily last season, (Hicketts, Walker, Fushimi, Gagnon) the club looks to be young again. 

First round 2012 Bantam picks F Tyler Soy and D Chaz Reddekopp are highly touted to make the club.  Along with Matthew Campese and Regan Nagy, who also got saw some WHL action last year chomping at the bit, competition at camp could be fierce.

“We’ve only got a few spots and they’re open for the taking.  It’s going to be a battle…We’ve invited some ’95 and ’96 born players to our main camp who are going to try for those spots as well, it’s going to be tough…”

As for goaltending, incumbent starter Patrik Polivka has been back from the Czech Republic working out and skating with the guys, and looks great – but as with all positions on the club, they’re earned and not given according to Hope.

“It’s anybody’s game.  Coleman Vollrath was terrific – he’s going to try to be the starter.  Michael Herringer was great, playing some games at the end of last year for us and he’s going to look for a job.”

Throw South Island Royal and 5th rd pick in 2012, Markus Daly into the goaltending mix along with rookie camp attendee Griffen Outhouse (’98 from Williams Lake), and Evan Smith who’s coming up from Colorado to also try for one of the jobs.

Three Victoria Royals will be attending respective NHL Prospect Tournaments from September 5-9th.

D Keegan Kanzig, will be with the Flames team in the Young Stars Classic in Penticton during that time.

Ben Walker celebrates a goal
Attending the Traverse City Prospects Tournament will be F Logan Nelson (5th rd BUF ’12), and F Ben Walker as an unsigned invitee by Minnesota. 

Walker attended the Wild’s NHL Development Camp earlier this summer, and clearly impressed the brass, resulting in his invitation.

Hope has past experience with the Traverse City Tournament, while being involved with the New York Rangers and believes Walker’s invite is something special.

“It’s just terrific.  If a player gets invited, particularily in the case of Ben Walker as a free agent to go and play for Minnesota, that really means something.”

F Steven Hodges (3rd rd FLA 2012) may not attend the Panthers prospects camp because of an injury that might require minor surgery.  It bothered him at Florida’s prospect camp and a little bit since, and has been seing some doctors to determine the best next step.

“I think the decision now, unless something changes in the next few days, is to have have some minor sugery at the end of the month which would put him out for a little while.  It’s something that isn’t going to keep him out long, and hopefully will make him better and not have to worry about it."


The Camp concludes with the Royals’ 2013 Intra-Squad Game on Wednesday, August 28th at 7:05 p.m. at SOFMC.  Admission is by donation to the GoodLife Fitness Children’s Foundation.

All on-ice sessions during camp are open to the public.

Find the training camp schedule here:
http://victoriaroyals.com/article/royals-announce-2013-training-camp-schedule

Victoria’s first 3 exhibition games are in Everett where they face the Silvertips August 30th at 7pm, the Seattle Thunderbirds at 3pm Saturday Aug 31st, and the Tri City Americans Sunday Sept. 1st at 11:30 am.

The Royals have one home exhibition date on Saturday Sept 14th at 1:35 vs Vancouver at the SOFMC.

They conclude the 5 game pre-season the following afternoon in Ladner vs the same Giants at 2 pm.

Opening weekend for Victoria is on the road in Vancouver Friday Sept. 20th, and the home opener the following night against the same Giants.

Catch all the regular season Play by Play action on The Zone @ 91.3 FM

-Marlon Martens

Saturday 24 August 2013

Profile: Brayden Dunn, 4th rd Pick '13

Brayden Dunn
Forward Brayden Dunn was selected in the 4th round of the 2013 Bantam draft, 77th overall by the Victoria Royals.

“I think I’m a good two way forward, I play good in the defensive zone but I can also provide some offense – and I just work hard.”  He said, as I spoke with him during Royals Rookie Camp at the SOFMC.

Playing for his hometown Calgary Northstar Sabres Bantam AAA last season, he put up 24 goals and 53 points in 33 games – good for 23rd overall in AMBHL league scoring.

“I felt I was a good playmaker on the team I got a lot of assists, provided a lot of offense and I was good in the defensive zone – I think I was a plus player so I’m happy about that.”

Dunn got interested in hockey early while watching it on TV.

“I was probably about 2, and an Ottawa Senators game came on, they’ve been my favourite team ever since that day.  My first NHL game was them (Ottawa) against Calgary at the Saddledome.”

While being inspired by favourite players in Tampa Bay’s Steven Stamkos, and Ottawa’s Jason Spezza, he credits family with what got him to where he is today.

“My parents and grandparents because they’ve provided me so much, and have given me the best opportunity I can have.”

In the offseason you can find the 15 year old camping and golfing and playing a variety of sports – a would be, perfect lifestyle fit on the Island.

It’s only his second visit to Victoria, his first during a tournament in Peewee, but he didn’t get much chance to explore.

“It’s beautiful, it’s nice.  The ferry was fun, I like being on the big boats I’ve been on two cruises before - it’s fun.”


As for Rookie Camp the play-making, two way forward embraced the challenge.

“It’s a good pace, made a lot of new friends, met a lot of new people – it’s been a good experience for me.”


He hopes to go back to Calgary after Royals Camp, and make their Midget Triple ‘A’ team.

-Marlon Martens