Yzerman and Graves named Honourary Captains for the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic
Wednesday January 28, 2009
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League in association with the Windsor Spitfires Hockey Club announced today that former Detroit Red Wings captain and current team Vice-President Steve Yzerman, with former Windsor Spitfires and New York Rangers star Adam Graves, will serve as honourary captains for the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic.
The two will be present at ice level for the pre-game ceremonies on Wednesday February 4, 2009 at the WFCU Centre beginning at 7:00pm. Yzerman will be representing the Eastern Conference All-Stars, with Graves aligning with the home team Western Conference.
“The Windsor Spitfires are extremely proud to welcome Steve Yzerman and Adam Graves as honourary captains for the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic” said Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel. “Both gentlemen are very well known and respected throughout the Windsor community and it will be exciting for our organization and for our fans to see them on the ice for the ceremonies of this event” added Rychel.
Steve Yzerman played two seasons in the OHL with the Peterborough Petes from 1981-1983 before being drafted in the first round, fourth overall to the Detroit Red Wings in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft. Yzerman played in 1,514 games over 22 seasons in the NHL with the Red Wings where he won three Stanley Cups. He was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the Most Valuable Player in the Playoffs in 1998. He ranks sixth on the NHL all-time points list with 1,755 career points including 692 goals (eighth all-time) and 1,063 assists (seventh all-time). Yzerman is the longest serving captain in NHL history wearing the “C” for the Red Wings for 20 seasons beginning in 1986-87 as a 21-year-old. On January 2, 2007, the Red Wings retired Yzerman’s number 19 to the rafters at Joe Louis Arena. Yzerman is currently the Vice-President of the Red Wings Hockey Club and General Manager of Team Canada’s 2010 Olympic Men’s Hockey Team.
Link to article for more details.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
RED WINGS SIGN HENRIK ZETTERBERG TO TWELVE-YEAR DEAL
RED WINGS SIGN HENRIK ZETTERBERG TO TWELVE-YEAR DEAL
…Star Forward To Stay In Hockeytown Through 2020-21…
Detroit, MI… Detroit Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland announced today that the club has signed forward Henrik Zetterberg to a twelve-year contract. In keeping with team policy, additional terms of the deal were not disclosed. The twelve-year pact represents the longest deal in club history.
Zetterberg, 28, is currently in his sixth season in the National Hockey League. He has played all 400 games of his career in a Red Wings uniform. In 45 games this season, the star forward has collected 17 goals and 26 assists for 43 points. He has developed into one of the most dynamic two-way players in the National Hockey League. Last season, Zetterberg set new career-highs with 43 goals (5th NHL), 49 assists (21st NHL), 92 points (6th NHL) and 358 shots on goal (2nd NHL). He was also a finalist for the Selke Trophy as the NHL’s best defensive forward and won the 2008 Conn Smythe Trophy as playoffs MVP.
“Henrik is one of the world’s premier players at both ends of the ice” said Holland. “This is a tremendous commitment on the part of the organization as well as by Henrik. We feel he is moving into the prime of his career and is another key to ensuring the long-term success of this franchise. We are thrilled that a player we drafted and developed will play out his career in Detroit with this lifetime contract.”
Originally a seventh round selection (210th overall) of the Red Wings in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft, Zetterberg led all rookies in 2002-03 with 22 goals and 44 points, and was named to the NHL’s All-Rookie Team. He was also the runner-up for the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s Rookie of the Year (Barrett Jackman, St. Louis).
Link to article for more details on the land mark signing
…Star Forward To Stay In Hockeytown Through 2020-21…
Detroit, MI… Detroit Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland announced today that the club has signed forward Henrik Zetterberg to a twelve-year contract. In keeping with team policy, additional terms of the deal were not disclosed. The twelve-year pact represents the longest deal in club history.
Zetterberg, 28, is currently in his sixth season in the National Hockey League. He has played all 400 games of his career in a Red Wings uniform. In 45 games this season, the star forward has collected 17 goals and 26 assists for 43 points. He has developed into one of the most dynamic two-way players in the National Hockey League. Last season, Zetterberg set new career-highs with 43 goals (5th NHL), 49 assists (21st NHL), 92 points (6th NHL) and 358 shots on goal (2nd NHL). He was also a finalist for the Selke Trophy as the NHL’s best defensive forward and won the 2008 Conn Smythe Trophy as playoffs MVP.
“Henrik is one of the world’s premier players at both ends of the ice” said Holland. “This is a tremendous commitment on the part of the organization as well as by Henrik. We feel he is moving into the prime of his career and is another key to ensuring the long-term success of this franchise. We are thrilled that a player we drafted and developed will play out his career in Detroit with this lifetime contract.”
Originally a seventh round selection (210th overall) of the Red Wings in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft, Zetterberg led all rookies in 2002-03 with 22 goals and 44 points, and was named to the NHL’s All-Rookie Team. He was also the runner-up for the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s Rookie of the Year (Barrett Jackman, St. Louis).
Link to article for more details on the land mark signing
Monday, January 26, 2009
Saturday, January 24, 2009
TIGERS AGREE TO ONE-YEAR DEAL WITH RHP BRANDON LYON
TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS ON ONE-YEAR DEAL WITH BRANDON LYON
Scott Williamson Signed to Minor League Deal, Invited to Major League Camp
DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with righthanded pitcher Brandon Lyon. Additionally, the Tigers designated the contract of righthanded pitcher Eddie Bonine for assignment and agreed to terms on a minor league contract with righthanded pitcher Scott Williamson. Williamson received an invitation to major league camp.
Lyon saw action in 61 games with the Arizona Diamondbacks during the 2008 season, posting a 3-5 record, 4.70 ERA (59.1IP/31ER) and 26 saves. He fanned 44 batters for the Diamondbacks last season, while issuing only 13 walks.
“Brandon Lyon is a proven reliever at the major league level,” Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. “Brandon will compete for the closer’s role this spring and we expect him to play a significant role on our pitching staff in the late innings.”
In seven seasons at the major league level with the Toronto Blue Jays (2001-02), Boston Red Sox (2003) and Diamondbacks (2005-08), he has compiled a 21-29 record, 4.46 ERA (416.0IP/206ER) and 51 saves in 309 appearances. Since the start of the 2005 season, Lyon was 12th among all National League relievers with 2.60 walks per nine innings. Lyon saw action in five games during the post-season with the Diamondbacks in 2007, fanning five batters in six scoreless innings of relief.
Link to article
Scott Williamson Signed to Minor League Deal, Invited to Major League Camp
DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with righthanded pitcher Brandon Lyon. Additionally, the Tigers designated the contract of righthanded pitcher Eddie Bonine for assignment and agreed to terms on a minor league contract with righthanded pitcher Scott Williamson. Williamson received an invitation to major league camp.
Lyon saw action in 61 games with the Arizona Diamondbacks during the 2008 season, posting a 3-5 record, 4.70 ERA (59.1IP/31ER) and 26 saves. He fanned 44 batters for the Diamondbacks last season, while issuing only 13 walks.
“Brandon Lyon is a proven reliever at the major league level,” Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. “Brandon will compete for the closer’s role this spring and we expect him to play a significant role on our pitching staff in the late innings.”
In seven seasons at the major league level with the Toronto Blue Jays (2001-02), Boston Red Sox (2003) and Diamondbacks (2005-08), he has compiled a 21-29 record, 4.46 ERA (416.0IP/206ER) and 51 saves in 309 appearances. Since the start of the 2005 season, Lyon was 12th among all National League relievers with 2.60 walks per nine innings. Lyon saw action in five games during the post-season with the Diamondbacks in 2007, fanning five batters in six scoreless innings of relief.
Link to article
Friday, January 23, 2009
SCHWARTZ HIRES SCOTT LINEHAN AS OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR
HEAD COACH JIM SCHWARTZ HIRES SCOTT LINEHAN AS OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR
Allen Park, Mich.—Detroit Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz has announced the hiring of Scott Linehan as the team’s new offensive coordinator. Terms of his contract were not disclosed.
Linehan joins the Lions coaching staff after spending the past three seasons (2006-08) as the head coach of the St. Louis Rams. He is now entering his eighth season as an NFL coach, going on 20 years of coaching experience.
As a first-time NFL head coach, Linehan quickly put his stamp on the Rams in 2006 via the ground game, giving the ball to RB Steven Jackson 346 times in 2006 – the most by a St. Louis player in 20 seasons. Jackson finished the year with 1,528 rushing yards (3rd, NFC), 105 first downs (1st, NFC) and 2,334 all-purpose yards (1st, NFL), earning his first-career Pro Bowl appearance. Jackson averaged 21.0 carries per game over Linehan’s three-year span with the Rams compared with 16.9 carries per game in 2005 and established himself as one of the NFL’s big running threats.
Other Rams saw career bests under Linehan. QB Marc Bulger passed for a career-best 4,301 yards in 2006, setting franchise records with a 1.4 interception percentage and 588 passing attempts. His 370 completions for 24 touchdowns were also second in Rams’ history. That season, WR Torry Holt and WR Isaac Bruce finished with 1,188 and 1,098 yards, respectively, combining for 167 pass receptions.
Link to article
Allen Park, Mich.—Detroit Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz has announced the hiring of Scott Linehan as the team’s new offensive coordinator. Terms of his contract were not disclosed.
Linehan joins the Lions coaching staff after spending the past three seasons (2006-08) as the head coach of the St. Louis Rams. He is now entering his eighth season as an NFL coach, going on 20 years of coaching experience.
As a first-time NFL head coach, Linehan quickly put his stamp on the Rams in 2006 via the ground game, giving the ball to RB Steven Jackson 346 times in 2006 – the most by a St. Louis player in 20 seasons. Jackson finished the year with 1,528 rushing yards (3rd, NFC), 105 first downs (1st, NFC) and 2,334 all-purpose yards (1st, NFL), earning his first-career Pro Bowl appearance. Jackson averaged 21.0 carries per game over Linehan’s three-year span with the Rams compared with 16.9 carries per game in 2005 and established himself as one of the NFL’s big running threats.
Other Rams saw career bests under Linehan. QB Marc Bulger passed for a career-best 4,301 yards in 2006, setting franchise records with a 1.4 interception percentage and 588 passing attempts. His 370 completions for 24 touchdowns were also second in Rams’ history. That season, WR Torry Holt and WR Isaac Bruce finished with 1,188 and 1,098 yards, respectively, combining for 167 pass receptions.
Link to article
2009 OHL All-Star Game Rosters Announced
Windsor, ON – The 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic will showcase 40 of the top players in the OHL with representation from each of the 20 member clubs. The event features a skills competition on Tuesday February 3, 2009, beginning at 7:00 pm with the game taking place Wednesday February 4, 2009, at 7:00 pm at the Windsor Family Credit Union Centre.
The 2008 event took place in Sault Ste. Marie with the Eastern Conference team victorious 8-7 in a shootout. Defenceman Bobby Sanguinetti playing for the Brampton Battalion and current NHL forward Steven Stamkos from the Sarnia Sting were named Players of the Game. Over the years the game has featured many players that have moved on to be NHL stars including Joe Thornton, Rick Nash, Jason Spezza, Eric Staal, and Patrick Kane.
The following are the rosters for the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic:
Eastern Conference All-Stars
Goaltenders (2):
Thomas McCollum – Brampton Battalion
Mike Murphy – Belleville Bulls
Defencemen (6):
Calvin de Haan – Oshawa Generals
Julian Demers – Ottawa 67’s
Cameron Gaunce – Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors
Shawn Lalonde – Belleville Bulls
Alex Pietrangelo – Niagara IceDogs
P.K Subban – Belleville Bulls
Forwards (12):
Bryan Cameron – Belleville Bulls
Logan Couture – Ottawa 67’s
Corey Cowick – Ottawa 67’s
Stefan Della Rovere – Barrie Colts
Matt Duchene – Brampton Battalion
Evgeny Grachev – Brampton Battalion
Cody Hodgson – Brampton Battalion
Alex Hutchings – Barrie Colts
Zack Kassian – Peterborough Petes
Eric O’Dell – Sudbury Wolves
Eric Tangradi – Belleville Bulls
Ethan Werek – Kingston Frontenacs
Eastern Conference All-Stars Staff – Belleville Bulls
Head Coach – George Burnett
Assistant Coach – Jake Grimes
Trainer – Ryan Bennett
Equipment Manager – Matt Sands
Western Conference All-Stars
Goaltenders (2):
Andrew Engelage – Windsor Spitfires
Edward Pasquale – Saginaw Spirit
Defencemen (6):
John Carlson – London Knights
Michael Del Zotto – London Knights
Ryan Ellis – Windsor Spitfires
Mark Katic – Sarnia Sting
Dan Kelly – Kitchener Rangers
Jacob Muzzin – Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
Forwards (12):
Chris Chappell – Saginaw Spirit
Justin DiBenedetto – Sarnia Sting
Taylor Hall – Windsor Spitfires
Joey Hishon – Owen Sound Attack
Peter Holland – Guelph Storm
Nazem Kadri – London Knights
Philip McRae – London Knights
Greg Nemisz – Windsor Spitfires
Ryan O’Reilly – Erie Otters
John Tavares – London Knights
Chris Terry – Plymouth Whalers
Scott Timmins – Windsor Spitfires
Western Conference All-Stars Staff - Kitchener Rangers
Head Coach – Steve Spott
Assistant Coach – Troy Smith
Trainer – Dan Lebold
The following are the rosters for the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic:
Eastern Conference All-Stars
Goaltenders (2):
Thomas McCollum – Brampton Battalion
Mike Murphy – Belleville Bulls
Defencemen (6):
Calvin de Haan – Oshawa Generals
Julian Demers – Ottawa 67’s
Cameron Gaunce – Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors
Shawn Lalonde – Belleville Bulls
Alex Pietrangelo – Niagara IceDogs
P.K Subban – Belleville Bulls
Forwards (12):
Bryan Cameron – Belleville Bulls
Logan Couture – Ottawa 67’s
Corey Cowick – Ottawa 67’s
Stefan Della Rovere – Barrie Colts
Matt Duchene – Brampton Battalion
Evgeny Grachev – Brampton Battalion
Cody Hodgson – Brampton Battalion
Alex Hutchings – Barrie Colts
Zack Kassian – Peterborough Petes
Eric O’Dell – Sudbury Wolves
Eric Tangradi – Belleville Bulls
Ethan Werek – Kingston Frontenacs
Eastern Conference All-Stars Staff – Belleville Bulls
Head Coach – George Burnett
Assistant Coach – Jake Grimes
Trainer – Ryan Bennett
Equipment Manager – Matt Sands
Western Conference All-Stars
Goaltenders (2):
Andrew Engelage – Windsor Spitfires
Edward Pasquale – Saginaw Spirit
Defencemen (6):
John Carlson – London Knights
Michael Del Zotto – London Knights
Ryan Ellis – Windsor Spitfires
Mark Katic – Sarnia Sting
Dan Kelly – Kitchener Rangers
Jacob Muzzin – Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
Forwards (12):
Chris Chappell – Saginaw Spirit
Justin DiBenedetto – Sarnia Sting
Taylor Hall – Windsor Spitfires
Joey Hishon – Owen Sound Attack
Peter Holland – Guelph Storm
Nazem Kadri – London Knights
Philip McRae – London Knights
Greg Nemisz – Windsor Spitfires
Ryan O’Reilly – Erie Otters
John Tavares – London Knights
Chris Terry – Plymouth Whalers
Scott Timmins – Windsor Spitfires
Western Conference All-Stars Staff - Kitchener Rangers
Head Coach – Steve Spott
Assistant Coach – Troy Smith
Trainer – Dan Lebold
Thursday, January 22, 2009
PISTONS GUARD ALLEN IVERSON NAMED ALL-STAR STARTER
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The NBA announced today that Pistons Guard Allen Iverson was voted as a starter for the Eastern Conference All-Star team after receiving 1,804,649 fan votes. He joins LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Dwight Howard and Kevin Garnett to round out the starting five for the East. The 2009 NBA All-Star Game will be played in Phoenix, Arizona on February 15 at US Airways Center, home of the Phoenix Suns.
“It's always an honor to be named an All-Star and it's a blessing to be in this league,” said Iverson. Being named an All-Star starter makes it that much more special. The fact that the fans have voted me onto the team makes this a great honor and it's truly appreciated.”
Iverson, the MVP of the 2001 and 2005 NBA All-Star Games, will make his 10th All-Star appearance, all as a starter, even though he did not play in the 2007 game due to an ankle injury. Named an All-Star as a member of the Philadelphia 76ers and Denver Nuggets, Iverson now joins Wilt Chamberlain (Warriors, 76ers, Lakers), Moses Malone (Rockets, Bullets, Hawks, 76ers), Shaquille O’Neal (Magic, Lakers, Heat) and Jason Kidd (Suns, Nets, Mavericks) as the only players in NBA All-Star history to be named a starter as a member of three or more different teams. In the eight games played, Iverson has averaged 16.0 points, 6.6 assists and 2.8 rebounds. He scored an all-star-high 35 points in the 2003 game, scored in double figures in five of eight games and dished out 10 or more assists twice.
A 12-year NBA veteran, Iverson was acquired by the Pistons on November 3, 2009 in exchange for Chauncey Billups, Antonio McDyess and Cheikh Samb. In 40 games this season, he’s averaging 17.9 points, 5.4 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 1.60 steals in 38.4 minutes per game.
In Play! Pistons Forum
“It's always an honor to be named an All-Star and it's a blessing to be in this league,” said Iverson. Being named an All-Star starter makes it that much more special. The fact that the fans have voted me onto the team makes this a great honor and it's truly appreciated.”
Iverson, the MVP of the 2001 and 2005 NBA All-Star Games, will make his 10th All-Star appearance, all as a starter, even though he did not play in the 2007 game due to an ankle injury. Named an All-Star as a member of the Philadelphia 76ers and Denver Nuggets, Iverson now joins Wilt Chamberlain (Warriors, 76ers, Lakers), Moses Malone (Rockets, Bullets, Hawks, 76ers), Shaquille O’Neal (Magic, Lakers, Heat) and Jason Kidd (Suns, Nets, Mavericks) as the only players in NBA All-Star history to be named a starter as a member of three or more different teams. In the eight games played, Iverson has averaged 16.0 points, 6.6 assists and 2.8 rebounds. He scored an all-star-high 35 points in the 2003 game, scored in double figures in five of eight games and dished out 10 or more assists twice.
A 12-year NBA veteran, Iverson was acquired by the Pistons on November 3, 2009 in exchange for Chauncey Billups, Antonio McDyess and Cheikh Samb. In 40 games this season, he’s averaging 17.9 points, 5.4 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 1.60 steals in 38.4 minutes per game.
In Play! Pistons Forum
Get Rid of Fan Voting!
Get Rid of Fan Voting!
Matt Dumouchelle
100.7 FM- The Rock
For In Play! magazine
One of my sports pet peeves is rearing it’s ugly head once again, and so early in the New Year.
I have said it a number of times on the show and I will say it again – fan voting should be eliminated.
The NHL All Star Game is Jan 25th in Montreal and of course, fans get to select the starters for both teams.
And wouldn’t you know it – half the starters for the East are Canadiens.
In the Eastern Conference, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin are starting – as deserved. The other winger is Alexei Kovalev – a Hab.
Yup, no Alexander Ovechkin. And really, why should he be there – he’s only 2nd in the NHL in scoring and 1st in the NHL in goals scored.
If the NHL wants to market their product, how can they allow Alexei Kovalev be an all star starter over Ovechkin.
By the way, Kovalev isn’t even the leading scorer ON HIS OWN TEAM!! That is not an NHL All Star starter!
On defense is Montreal blue-liners Mike Komasarek and Andrei Markov. Ooo there’s a couple names that will make me click right in!
Markov is 5th in defenseman scoring, that’s fine – but Komasarek HAS 3 POINTS. THREE!! I’m more of an all star than that!
Catch the rest of Matt's rant
Matt Dumouchelle
100.7 FM- The Rock
For In Play! magazine
One of my sports pet peeves is rearing it’s ugly head once again, and so early in the New Year.
I have said it a number of times on the show and I will say it again – fan voting should be eliminated.
The NHL All Star Game is Jan 25th in Montreal and of course, fans get to select the starters for both teams.
And wouldn’t you know it – half the starters for the East are Canadiens.
In the Eastern Conference, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin are starting – as deserved. The other winger is Alexei Kovalev – a Hab.
Yup, no Alexander Ovechkin. And really, why should he be there – he’s only 2nd in the NHL in scoring and 1st in the NHL in goals scored.
If the NHL wants to market their product, how can they allow Alexei Kovalev be an all star starter over Ovechkin.
By the way, Kovalev isn’t even the leading scorer ON HIS OWN TEAM!! That is not an NHL All Star starter!
On defense is Montreal blue-liners Mike Komasarek and Andrei Markov. Ooo there’s a couple names that will make me click right in!
Markov is 5th in defenseman scoring, that’s fine – but Komasarek HAS 3 POINTS. THREE!! I’m more of an all star than that!
Catch the rest of Matt's rant
Death of hockey player rekindles debate.
Death of hockey player rekindles debate.
Bob Bellacicco
"A" News-Windsor
For In Play! magazine
My heart goes to out to the family of Don Sanderson, the 21-year old Whitby Dunlops player, who succumbed to his injuries and passed away January 2nd. Sanderson was involved in a fight during a Major Hockey League Senior A game three weeks ago. He lost his helmet, fell and banged his head off the ice during a third period tussle.
The accident has rekindled the debate about fighting in the game of hockey. Some like it. Others don't. I watched a player on TSN say it's part of the game and a risk they take when getting involved.
The issue has been debated for years. Will this incident force hockey to react? I think more focus on safety will ensue but fighting probably won't be banned any time soon. It can't be. Don Cherry would lose his mind. Should fighting be outlawed? It's works in lacrosse but basketball and baseball players look like sissy's when they fight...or try to.
The games of Football and Rugby are more physical but their players don't fight. Why not? Can hockey be like those sports? Better yet, can hockey fans enjoy the physical part of the game without the fights? It works for football and rugby.
Your thoughts
Bob Bellacicco
"A" News-Windsor
For In Play! magazine
My heart goes to out to the family of Don Sanderson, the 21-year old Whitby Dunlops player, who succumbed to his injuries and passed away January 2nd. Sanderson was involved in a fight during a Major Hockey League Senior A game three weeks ago. He lost his helmet, fell and banged his head off the ice during a third period tussle.
The accident has rekindled the debate about fighting in the game of hockey. Some like it. Others don't. I watched a player on TSN say it's part of the game and a risk they take when getting involved.
The issue has been debated for years. Will this incident force hockey to react? I think more focus on safety will ensue but fighting probably won't be banned any time soon. It can't be. Don Cherry would lose his mind. Should fighting be outlawed? It's works in lacrosse but basketball and baseball players look like sissy's when they fight...or try to.
The games of Football and Rugby are more physical but their players don't fight. Why not? Can hockey be like those sports? Better yet, can hockey fans enjoy the physical part of the game without the fights? It works for football and rugby.
Your thoughts
Lions Defense vs Kansas City Defense...By The Numbers
Gunther Cunningham named Detroit Lions’ new assistant head coach & defensive coordinator by Head Coach Jim Schwartz.
Cunningham comes to the Lions from the Kansas City Chiefs.
So, how does the new defensive coordinator stack up against the coach he is replacing?
In Play! magazine breaks down the stats of the Defensives by game averages from the 2008 season and the numbers are strikingly eerie.
2008 KANSAS CITY CHIEFS DEFENSE
POINTS-27.5 (29th), YDS-393.2 (31st), PASS YDS-234.2 (28TH), RUSH YDS-158.9 (30TH)
2008 DETROIT LIONS DEFENSE
POINTS-32.3 (32ND), YDS-404.4 (32ND), PASS YDS-232.2 (27TH), RUSH YDS-172.1 (32TH)
Link to Lions Fan Forum
Cunningham comes to the Lions from the Kansas City Chiefs.
So, how does the new defensive coordinator stack up against the coach he is replacing?
In Play! magazine breaks down the stats of the Defensives by game averages from the 2008 season and the numbers are strikingly eerie.
2008 KANSAS CITY CHIEFS DEFENSE
POINTS-27.5 (29th), YDS-393.2 (31st), PASS YDS-234.2 (28TH), RUSH YDS-158.9 (30TH)
2008 DETROIT LIONS DEFENSE
POINTS-32.3 (32ND), YDS-404.4 (32ND), PASS YDS-232.2 (27TH), RUSH YDS-172.1 (32TH)
Link to Lions Fan Forum
LIONS HIRE GUNTHER CUNNINGHAM TO HEAD UP THE DEFENSE
LIONS HIRE GUNTHER CUNNINGHAM AS ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR
Allen Park, Mich.— Detroit Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz has announced the hiring of Gunther Cunningham as the Lions’ assistant head coach/defensive coordinator. Terms of his contract were not disclosed.
Cunningham is a 40-year coaching veteran on the college and pro levels, including the past 27 seasons in the NFL. He has been a defensive coordinator in the league for 10 seasons and a head coach (Kansas City, 1999-2000) for two. Cunningham has also worked with linebackers and defensive linemen for 16 of his seasons in the pros. As a coach in the NFL, Cunningham has earned the respect of both his peers and players for his intense and straightforward approach to coaching. He is known as a strong motivator who emphasizes the importance of an aggressive and hard-hitting defense. Additionally, Cunningham also brings the elements of being a talented defensive teacher and tactician.
From, 2004-08, Cunningham served as the Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator during his second stint with the organization. In 2008, he also coached the team’s linebackers as the Chiefs’ defense began a transition with six new starters and endured numerous injuries throughout the season. From 2004-07, his imprint on the defense was prevalent in several areas.
Link to article
Allen Park, Mich.— Detroit Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz has announced the hiring of Gunther Cunningham as the Lions’ assistant head coach/defensive coordinator. Terms of his contract were not disclosed.
Cunningham is a 40-year coaching veteran on the college and pro levels, including the past 27 seasons in the NFL. He has been a defensive coordinator in the league for 10 seasons and a head coach (Kansas City, 1999-2000) for two. Cunningham has also worked with linebackers and defensive linemen for 16 of his seasons in the pros. As a coach in the NFL, Cunningham has earned the respect of both his peers and players for his intense and straightforward approach to coaching. He is known as a strong motivator who emphasizes the importance of an aggressive and hard-hitting defense. Additionally, Cunningham also brings the elements of being a talented defensive teacher and tactician.
From, 2004-08, Cunningham served as the Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator during his second stint with the organization. In 2008, he also coached the team’s linebackers as the Chiefs’ defense began a transition with six new starters and endured numerous injuries throughout the season. From 2004-07, his imprint on the defense was prevalent in several areas.
Link to article
SPARTANS BATTLE WOLVERINES TOMORROW AT THE JOE
SPARTANS BATTLE WOLVERINES TOMORROW AT THE JOE
…Shoot For A Cure Silent Auction Will Help Fight Children’s Cancer…
Detroit… Only one day remains before college hockey’s fiercest rivalry takes the ice when the Michigan State Spartans host the Michigan Wolverines at 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 23 at Joe Louis Arena (FSN-Plus).
The Spartans currently hold a 7-14-3 record (4-10-2-2 CCHA) and the No.8-ranked Wolverines are 16-8-0 (10-6-0-0 CCHA). Michigan looks to continue their winning streak having won their last seven games overall at “The Joe”. Michigan State will fight to close the gap in the teams’ all-time series at Joe Louis Arena with the maize and blue posting a 17-20-5 record over the green and white.
Fans attending Friday night’s match-up will have the opportunity to bid on an array of sports memorabilia through a silent auction to benefit “Shoot for a Cure”. Items include memorabilia autographed by former Spartans and Wolverines now playing professional hockey and other hockey items from teams throughout the NHL. The silent auction, sponsored by Michigan State, will take place on the Joe Louis Arena concourse through the end of the second intermission.
“Shoot for a Cure” was started by former Spartan and Detroit Red Wings draft pick Justin Abdelkader and current Michigan State senior Daniel Sturges and is currently in its second season. Every dollar collected through “Shoot for a Cure” goes directly to Cure Kids Cancer at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing.
Be sure to always check out our fan fourms for your up to date sports news from around Windsor and Detroit.
Link to article
…Shoot For A Cure Silent Auction Will Help Fight Children’s Cancer…
Detroit… Only one day remains before college hockey’s fiercest rivalry takes the ice when the Michigan State Spartans host the Michigan Wolverines at 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 23 at Joe Louis Arena (FSN-Plus).
The Spartans currently hold a 7-14-3 record (4-10-2-2 CCHA) and the No.8-ranked Wolverines are 16-8-0 (10-6-0-0 CCHA). Michigan looks to continue their winning streak having won their last seven games overall at “The Joe”. Michigan State will fight to close the gap in the teams’ all-time series at Joe Louis Arena with the maize and blue posting a 17-20-5 record over the green and white.
Fans attending Friday night’s match-up will have the opportunity to bid on an array of sports memorabilia through a silent auction to benefit “Shoot for a Cure”. Items include memorabilia autographed by former Spartans and Wolverines now playing professional hockey and other hockey items from teams throughout the NHL. The silent auction, sponsored by Michigan State, will take place on the Joe Louis Arena concourse through the end of the second intermission.
“Shoot for a Cure” was started by former Spartan and Detroit Red Wings draft pick Justin Abdelkader and current Michigan State senior Daniel Sturges and is currently in its second season. Every dollar collected through “Shoot for a Cure” goes directly to Cure Kids Cancer at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing.
Be sure to always check out our fan fourms for your up to date sports news from around Windsor and Detroit.
Link to article
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
LIONS HIRE GUNTHER CUNNINGHAM AS DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR
LIONS HIRE GUNTHER CUNNINGHAM AS DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR
Allen Park, Mich.— Detroit Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz has announced the hiring of Gunther Cunningham as the Lions’ defensive coordinator. Terms of his contract were not disclosed.
Cunningham is a 40-year coaching veteran on the college and pro levels, including the past 27 seasons in the NFL. As an NFL coach, he has served 10 seasons as a defensive coordinator and two seasons as head coach, and during his time in the NFL he has worked with linebackers and defensive line in 16 of those seasons.
He most recently served as the Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator from 2004-08, his second stint with the Chiefs’ organization. Cunningham served as assistant head coach/linebackers (2001-03) on Jeff Fisher’s coaching staff with the Tennessee Titans along with Schwartz. Prior to his stint in Tennessee, he was with the Chiefs for the first time as the team’s defensive coordinator (1995-98) and head coach (1999-2000).
Link to article
Allen Park, Mich.— Detroit Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz has announced the hiring of Gunther Cunningham as the Lions’ defensive coordinator. Terms of his contract were not disclosed.
Cunningham is a 40-year coaching veteran on the college and pro levels, including the past 27 seasons in the NFL. As an NFL coach, he has served 10 seasons as a defensive coordinator and two seasons as head coach, and during his time in the NFL he has worked with linebackers and defensive line in 16 of those seasons.
He most recently served as the Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator from 2004-08, his second stint with the Chiefs’ organization. Cunningham served as assistant head coach/linebackers (2001-03) on Jeff Fisher’s coaching staff with the Tennessee Titans along with Schwartz. Prior to his stint in Tennessee, he was with the Chiefs for the first time as the team’s defensive coordinator (1995-98) and head coach (1999-2000).
Link to article
Friday, January 16, 2009
NEW HEAD COACH-NO HEAD COACHING EXPERIENCE-SAME DETROIT LIONS ISSUES
NEW HEAD COACH-NO HEAD COACHING EXPERIENCE-SAME DETROIT LIONS ISSUES
Well Lions Fans we have a new Head Coach and his name is Jim Schwartz previously the defensive coordinator of the Tennessee Titans.
In my humble opinion the Lions were (still are) in need of a complete and serious overhaul from top to bottom and they need experience at the helm to do that.
So exactly how much head coaching experience does Schwartz have under his belt? ZERO!
That's right, our new head coach comes to us with no more experience at the helm then Marinelli did.
I am sorry for the pessimistic outlook but I don't see anything happening next season except maybe 32 loses in a row.
First we were treated by Mr. Ford to the promotion of the new Lions President Tom Lewand and then the promotion of the new General Manager Martin Mayhew, again we needed experience and what did we wind up with?
The pair; self admittedly an intrical part of the last eight years and a big part of the o-16 record in 2008, yet they are kept on...and bumped up as a matter of fact..
"Elevate and delegate" as they say. Oh yeah, there's another old saying, "We can't fire em...let's promote em and get them out of our department."
Link to article
Well Lions Fans we have a new Head Coach and his name is Jim Schwartz previously the defensive coordinator of the Tennessee Titans.
In my humble opinion the Lions were (still are) in need of a complete and serious overhaul from top to bottom and they need experience at the helm to do that.
So exactly how much head coaching experience does Schwartz have under his belt? ZERO!
That's right, our new head coach comes to us with no more experience at the helm then Marinelli did.
I am sorry for the pessimistic outlook but I don't see anything happening next season except maybe 32 loses in a row.
First we were treated by Mr. Ford to the promotion of the new Lions President Tom Lewand and then the promotion of the new General Manager Martin Mayhew, again we needed experience and what did we wind up with?
The pair; self admittedly an intrical part of the last eight years and a big part of the o-16 record in 2008, yet they are kept on...and bumped up as a matter of fact..
"Elevate and delegate" as they say. Oh yeah, there's another old saying, "We can't fire em...let's promote em and get them out of our department."
Link to article
Thursday, January 15, 2009
LIONS TO INTRODUCE JIM SCHWARTZ AS NEW HEAD COACH
LIONS TO INTRODUCE JIM SCHWARTZ AS NEW HEAD COACH
Statement from Lions President Tom Lewand
Detroit January 16, 2009
3:58 PM
"After an extensive search that included several highly-qualified coaches, we are thrilled that Jim Schwartz will become our team's head coach. Martin (Mayhew) and I believe that Jim's qualifications and vision will lead this organization on the field toward our goal of becoming a championship football team."
In Play! will have further details as they become available.
Link to Lions Fan Forum
Statement from Lions President Tom Lewand
Detroit January 16, 2009
3:58 PM
"After an extensive search that included several highly-qualified coaches, we are thrilled that Jim Schwartz will become our team's head coach. Martin (Mayhew) and I believe that Jim's qualifications and vision will lead this organization on the field toward our goal of becoming a championship football team."
In Play! will have further details as they become available.
Link to Lions Fan Forum
CABRERA NAMED ‘KING TIGER’ 2008 BY MAYO SMITH SOCIETY MEMBERS
Photo by Jack Rosenberg for In Play! MagazineCABRERA NAMED ‘KING TIGER’ 2008 BY MAYO SMITH SOCIETY MEMBERS
DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera has won the 2008 King Tiger Award, given each year by the Mayo Smith Society.
Cabrera was the American League's home run leader in 2008 with 37, while he tied for the league lead with 331 total bases. He finished third in the league with 127 RBI, fifth with 75 extra-base hits and seventh with a .537 slugging percentage. Cabrera is the first Tigers player to lead the league in home runs since Cecil Fielder belted 44 home runs in 1991 to share the league lead.
Outfielder Curtis Granderson finished second and rookie righthanded pitcher Armando Galarraga finished third, in balloting conducted during the offseason by the Mayo Smith Society, the nationwide organization of Detroit Tigers fans. Outfielder Magglio Ordoñez and third baseman Brandon Inge also collected King Tiger votes.
Link to article
DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera has won the 2008 King Tiger Award, given each year by the Mayo Smith Society.
Cabrera was the American League's home run leader in 2008 with 37, while he tied for the league lead with 331 total bases. He finished third in the league with 127 RBI, fifth with 75 extra-base hits and seventh with a .537 slugging percentage. Cabrera is the first Tigers player to lead the league in home runs since Cecil Fielder belted 44 home runs in 1991 to share the league lead.
Outfielder Curtis Granderson finished second and rookie righthanded pitcher Armando Galarraga finished third, in balloting conducted during the offseason by the Mayo Smith Society, the nationwide organization of Detroit Tigers fans. Outfielder Magglio Ordoñez and third baseman Brandon Inge also collected King Tiger votes.
Link to article
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
2009 International Auto Show Sneak Peek
Dodge Challenger R/T
Chevy Camero
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
Chevy Camero
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500In Play! magazine has some great photos of from the 2009 North American International Auto Show.
Take a sneak peek at the hottest sports cars at this year's show before it opens to the general public.
Many more photos are postedon our website photo gallery...just follow the link below.
All photos by Jack Rosenberg
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Details for 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic
Details for 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic
Spitfires Announce Special Details for 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic Events!
(Windsor) At a press conference conducted earlier today, the Windsor Spitfires and OHL All-Star Committee made several exciting announcements with regards to the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic, hosted at the WFCU Centre from February 2nd – 4th, 2009.
Master of Ceremonies Steve Bell from AM800’s Morning Drive kicked things off by welcoming all guests attending today’s conference. Details for the star-studded Sun Life Financial All-Star Luncheon were then announced. The luncheon will be held on Wednesday, February 4th at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts. A seven-course meal will be served and the keynote speaker for the luncheon will be Ken Holland, Executive Vice-President and General Manager of the Detroit Red Wings. Tables are currently being sold to fans looking to attend the event. Each table will include an OHL All-Star player as well as a Sun Life Financial Ambassador. Trophies from the Hockey Hall of Fame including the Stanley Cup as well as OHL trophies will also be on display at the luncheon. Tables of eight can be purchased for $895 each or pairs of tickets are available at $295 by calling (519) 254-5000 ext. 200. Tables must be booked no later than January 21st.
Details for the OHL All-Star Skills Competition, Half-Time Show and participants for the OHL Alumni game were also released. The OHL All-Star Skills Competition will be held from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3rd at the WFCU Centre and will feature events such as the hardest shot competition, fastest skater, shooting accuracy, team relay race and a breakaway shootout just to name a few. The Half-Time Show will follow the skills competition from 8:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m, featuring feature local recording sensation Jody Raffoul, a pop-rock singer and songwriter who performs over 200 shows a year and has opened for many well known musical acts including Kid Rock, Nickelback, Collective Soul and most recently Bon Jovi.
Link to article
Spitfires Announce Special Details for 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic Events!
(Windsor) At a press conference conducted earlier today, the Windsor Spitfires and OHL All-Star Committee made several exciting announcements with regards to the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic, hosted at the WFCU Centre from February 2nd – 4th, 2009.
Master of Ceremonies Steve Bell from AM800’s Morning Drive kicked things off by welcoming all guests attending today’s conference. Details for the star-studded Sun Life Financial All-Star Luncheon were then announced. The luncheon will be held on Wednesday, February 4th at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts. A seven-course meal will be served and the keynote speaker for the luncheon will be Ken Holland, Executive Vice-President and General Manager of the Detroit Red Wings. Tables are currently being sold to fans looking to attend the event. Each table will include an OHL All-Star player as well as a Sun Life Financial Ambassador. Trophies from the Hockey Hall of Fame including the Stanley Cup as well as OHL trophies will also be on display at the luncheon. Tables of eight can be purchased for $895 each or pairs of tickets are available at $295 by calling (519) 254-5000 ext. 200. Tables must be booked no later than January 21st.
Details for the OHL All-Star Skills Competition, Half-Time Show and participants for the OHL Alumni game were also released. The OHL All-Star Skills Competition will be held from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3rd at the WFCU Centre and will feature events such as the hardest shot competition, fastest skater, shooting accuracy, team relay race and a breakaway shootout just to name a few. The Half-Time Show will follow the skills competition from 8:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m, featuring feature local recording sensation Jody Raffoul, a pop-rock singer and songwriter who performs over 200 shows a year and has opened for many well known musical acts including Kid Rock, Nickelback, Collective Soul and most recently Bon Jovi.
Link to article
TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS WITH FU-TE NI ON MINOR LEAGUE DEAL
TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS WITH FU-TE NI ON MINOR LEAGUE DEAL
Lefthanded Pitcher Receives Invitation to Major League Camp
DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a minor league deal with lefthanded pitcher Fu-Te Ni from Taiwan. Ni will be in major league camp with the Tigers this spring as a non-roster invitee.
Ni spent the past two seasons pitching for the China Trust Whales in the Chinese Professional Baseball League. In 2008, he finished 5-12 with a 3.34 ERA and 132 strikeouts in 145.1 innings pitched. Ni led the CPBL with 132 strikeouts in 2008. He finished 7-12 with a 3.53 ERA and 125 strikeouts in 122.1 innings pitched during the 2007 season. Ni finished third in the CPBL with 125 strikeouts that season, while he was eighth with his 3.53 ERA.
“Our personnel that have scouted Ni project him as a major league pitcher,” Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. “The efforts by Al Avila (vice president/assistant general manager), Tom Moore (director, international operations), Kevin Hooker (pacific rim coordinator) and Allen Lin (Taiwan scout) have brought this well-scouted prospect to our organization. We are pleased to add Ni as we continue to expand our international scouting efforts.”
Link to article
Lefthanded Pitcher Receives Invitation to Major League Camp
DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a minor league deal with lefthanded pitcher Fu-Te Ni from Taiwan. Ni will be in major league camp with the Tigers this spring as a non-roster invitee.
Ni spent the past two seasons pitching for the China Trust Whales in the Chinese Professional Baseball League. In 2008, he finished 5-12 with a 3.34 ERA and 132 strikeouts in 145.1 innings pitched. Ni led the CPBL with 132 strikeouts in 2008. He finished 7-12 with a 3.53 ERA and 125 strikeouts in 122.1 innings pitched during the 2007 season. Ni finished third in the CPBL with 125 strikeouts that season, while he was eighth with his 3.53 ERA.
“Our personnel that have scouted Ni project him as a major league pitcher,” Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. “The efforts by Al Avila (vice president/assistant general manager), Tom Moore (director, international operations), Kevin Hooker (pacific rim coordinator) and Allen Lin (Taiwan scout) have brought this well-scouted prospect to our organization. We are pleased to add Ni as we continue to expand our international scouting efforts.”
Link to article
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Old Time Hockey Slowly Slipping Away
Gone are the days of Scotty Bowman telling reporters a player has a leg injury when it's actually his shoulder or that a concussion is really a pulled groin.
A new directive from the NHL states:
"Clubs no longer are required to disclose the specific nature of player injuries. Clubs are, however, required to disclose that a player is expected to miss a game due to injury, or will not return to a game following an injury. Clubs are prohibited from providing untruthful information about the nature of a player injury or otherwise misrepresenting a player’s condition."
Next thing you know there won't be any fighting in the game...oh, wait a minute.
Link to current issue of In Play!
A new directive from the NHL states:
"Clubs no longer are required to disclose the specific nature of player injuries. Clubs are, however, required to disclose that a player is expected to miss a game due to injury, or will not return to a game following an injury. Clubs are prohibited from providing untruthful information about the nature of a player injury or otherwise misrepresenting a player’s condition."
Next thing you know there won't be any fighting in the game...oh, wait a minute.
Link to current issue of In Play!
Friday, January 9, 2009
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