Olympia Entertainment and City of Detroit Working to
Develop New Lease for Joe Louis Arena
Olympia Entertainment returns Cobo Arena to City of Detroit,
which should assist officials in their efforts to keep Auto Show in Detroit
DETROIT – Olympia Entertainment today informed the City of Detroit via personal phone call and hand-delivered letter that, pursuant to the terms of its current lease, Olympia Entertainment will not exercise its option to extend the current lease on the Joe Louis and Cobo Arenas for an additional 20 years. The current lease, which covers both arenas, expires on June 30, 2010, and automatically renews for 20 years if Olympia Entertainment did not notify the City of its decision on the option by June 30, 2009. Olympia’s decision to not extend the current lease returns Cobo Arena to the City of Detroit and should assist officials in their efforts to keep the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. This action also allows Olympia Entertainment and the City of Detroit to continue work on a new lease specifically for Joe Louis Arena.
“The existing lease was crafted more than three decades ago by individuals no longer associated with either Olympia Entertainment or the City,” said Christopher Ilitch, president and CEO of Ilitch Holdings, Inc. “It does not fully contemplate one: the evolution of the sports and entertainment industry; two: the current economic environment in which both the City and Olympia Entertainment are operating and; three: the infrastructure replacement and repair needs of a 30-year-old building in order to meet the competitive industry standards of today.
“Furthermore, we have been and continue to be very supportive of keeping the Auto Show in Detroit and this is one way we think our organization can help meet that objective. We believe that any economic benefit to Olympia Entertainment by continuing to operate Cobo Arena in the future is outweighed by the potential that a positive resolution on the Cobo issue will have for the region and state.
“Due to these very important factors, we have been working constructively with the City over the course of the past year on a new lease specifically for Joe Louis Arena. To date, an agreement has not been finalized and today’s action is simply a necessary step in the process as we continue to work together to develop a new lease.
“Detroit is our hometown and we have a strong desire to stay here. We remain confident that we can reach a satisfactory agreement that should not only enhance the sporting and entertainment experience for patrons of the facility, but will lead to additional economic benefit for the region and the potential for additional job creation as the facility attracts more events and performances.”
About Joe Louis Arena
Joe Louis Arena was built by the City of Detroit and opened in 1979. Michael and Marian Ilitch purchased the Detroit Red Wings and the company currently known as Olympia Entertainment in 1982. Olympia Entertainment leases Joe Louis Arena from the City of Detroit, which owns the building. Joe Louis Arena is currently the fourth oldest arena in the NHL. It is home to the 11-time Stanley Cup Champion Detroit Red Wings and host to major artists and performers for concerts and other entertainment events. The Detroit Red Wings will play the 2009-2010 season at Joe Louis Arena.
About Cobo Arena
Cobo Arena opened in 1960 and has a seating capacity of 12,000. It has a storied history of hosting memorable sporting, concert and entertainment events, including being the home of the Detroit Pistons from 1961 - 1978. In addition, it is widely recognized as having some of the best acoustics in the industry and many notable artists like Bob Seger, Ted Nugent, and Madonna have recorded live concert albums at Cobo Arena. Olympia Entertainment has leased Cobo Arena from the City of Detroit, which owns the building, since 1982. For nearly three decades, it has been successful and an important part of Olympia Entertainment’s venue mix, rounding out its spectrum of venues ranging from 300 – 40,000 seats.
In Play! magazine
Friday, June 26, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Toronto Lake Raiders vs Michigan Mustangs
Come see Wheelchair PowerHockey at it's finest in this Best of 3 Series, as the Mustangs prepare to compete in North Carolina.
Toronto Lake Raiders vs Michigan Mustangs
Saturday, June 27
11am - 5pm
Westland Bailey Center
36651 Ford Road
Westlannd, MI, 48185
DIRECTIONS
Entrance is FREE, Donations appreciated.
All proceeds go towards the Mustangs costs of traveling to North Carolina July 17-20.
For more information click here
Toronto Lake Raiders vs Michigan Mustangs
Saturday, June 27
11am - 5pm
Westland Bailey Center
36651 Ford Road
Westlannd, MI, 48185
DIRECTIONS
Entrance is FREE, Donations appreciated.
All proceeds go towards the Mustangs costs of traveling to North Carolina July 17-20.
For more information click here
Drew Lane Sports blogs
Great news for WRIF and for the rest of us waiting to hear Drew's voice in the morning!
Here is a collection of blogs that Drew has written for In Play! magazine current issue, most are sports related, some are Detroit City council, Martha Reeves and Kwame.
Anyway, if you didn't get a chance to read Drew's blogs the first time, here they are again...enjoy!
DREW LANE - THE BRETT FAVRE SAGA
DREW LANE - KWAME KILPATRICK AT THE WINGS RALLY
DREW LANE - PISTONS
DREW LANE - THE LIONS...WOE IS DETROIT
DREW LANE - Knock It Off Martha Reeves!
DREW LANE - AIG Bailout Bonuses
DREW LANE - Random Thoughts 1
DREW LANE - Izzo...not just a “Good tournament coach”
DREW LANE - Random Thoughts 2
DREW LANE - Bobby Ferguson Still Has Fans
DREW LANE - Kwame Keeps it Coming
Here is a collection of blogs that Drew has written for In Play! magazine current issue, most are sports related, some are Detroit City council, Martha Reeves and Kwame.
Anyway, if you didn't get a chance to read Drew's blogs the first time, here they are again...enjoy!
DREW LANE - THE BRETT FAVRE SAGA
DREW LANE - KWAME KILPATRICK AT THE WINGS RALLY
DREW LANE - PISTONS
DREW LANE - THE LIONS...WOE IS DETROIT
DREW LANE - Knock It Off Martha Reeves!
DREW LANE - AIG Bailout Bonuses
DREW LANE - Random Thoughts 1
DREW LANE - Izzo...not just a “Good tournament coach”
DREW LANE - Random Thoughts 2
DREW LANE - Bobby Ferguson Still Has Fans
DREW LANE - Kwame Keeps it Coming
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
HOCKEY HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES 2009 INDUCTEES
TORONTO (June 23, 2009) – Bill Hay, Chairman of the Hockey Hall of Fame’s Board of Directors, Jim Gregory and Pat Quinn, Co-Chairmen of the Hockey Hall of Fame’s Selection Committee, announced today that Brett Hull, Brian Leetch, Luc Robitaille and Steve Yzerman have been elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in the Player Category. In the Builder Category, Lou Lamoriello was elected. The vote took place today at the annual meeting of the Selection Committee in Toronto.
“The Hockey Hall of Fame is proud to welcome these five hockey legends as Honoured Members,” said Jim Gregory. “Their contributions to the game of hockey are well documented and their election to the Hockey Hall of Fame is richly deserved.”
A native of Belleville, Ontario, Brett Hull played college hockey for two seasons at the University of Minnesota Duluth, before embarking on his professional career in 1986. Hull played 19 NHL seasons, winning Stanley Cups with Detroit and Dallas. A three-time first team NHL All-Star, along with his father Bobby, he is the only NHL father-son duo to each record 600 goals and 1,000 career points.
“It is hard to put into words what this means to me; especially since I’m joining my father in the Hockey Hall of Fame,” said Hull. “Simply getting to the NHL was a challenge for me, and I would like to thank all of my supporters who made many sacrifices on my behalf.”
Brian Leetch played his collegiate hockey at Boston College and was drafted in the first round (9th overall) in 1986. He turned pro with the Rangers in 1987 and went on to play 18 NHL seasons, winning the James Norris trophy twice. Leetch was a key member of the Rangers’ 1993-94 Stanley Cup winning team and became the first U.S. born player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy as the NHL’s playoff MVP.
“I am humbled and excited by this honour, particularly since for me it is difficult to think of myself as a member of the Hall of Fame,” said Leetch. “My hockey career has been a long and enjoyable process. I am appreciative of all those who have helped me. From my father as my youth coach, to Mark Messier who helped me out so much -- both on and off the ice surface.”
Luc Robitaille played his Junior hockey in Hull, Quebec under the tutelage of Pat Burns. A late selection (9th round) of the Los Angeles Kings in 1984, he went on to win the Calder Trophy in his rookie season in 1987. He played 19 NHL seasons, ranking 10th amongst NHLers all time in scoring and his eight 40+ goal seasons are only surpassed by Wayne Gretzky and Mike Bossy.
“My goal was always just to play in the NHL and I never dreamed of anything beyond that,” said Robitaille. “To be honoured in the same room as The Rocket, Guy Lafleur and Wayne Gretzky is a tremendous honour.”
Steve Yzerman was selected 4th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 1983 Entry Draft and went on to play 22 seasons for the Wings. The longest serving team captain in Red Wings history (1986 until 2006), Yzerman holds numerous team records, led the team to three Stanley Cups and was a member of Canada’s gold medal winning Olympic team in 2002.
“It is a tremendous honour to receive this news,” said Steve Yzerman. “I want to thank the Selection Committee for recognizing my contributions – I truly had chills down my spine when I got the news.”
In the Builder Category, long-time New Jersey Devils General Manager, Lou Lamoriello was honoured for his over 40 years of contributions to the game – both at the collegiate and NHL levels. Under his leadership the Devils have won three Stanley Cups: in 1995, 2000 and 2003.
“This award is completely unexpected,” said Lamoriello. “Over my career I have been fortunate to have been associated with great players and coaches, and this award recognizes their contributions to my career.”
The 2009 Induction Celebration will be held on Monday, November 9th at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. For more information regarding the 2009 Induction Weekend/Celebration, visit http://www.hhof.com.
Established in 1943, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a museum and place of entertainment offering state-of-the-art multimedia presentations and exhibits from its premises at Brookfield Place, Toronto, Canada. Its mandate is to recognize and honour the achievements of individuals who bring special distinction to the game of hockey, and to collect and preserve objects, images and resource materials connected with the game as it is played in Canada and throughout the world.
BRETT HULL
· Born August 9, 1964 in Belleville, Ontario
· Holds BCHL record for most goals in a season with 105, set in 1983-84; Penticton Knights
· On scholarship at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, was named the WCHA Freshman of the Year (1985) and a WCHA First-Team All-Star (1986)
· Picked 117th overall, as the Calgary Flames’ 6th choice, in the 1984 NHL Entry Draft
· Member of the AHL’s First All-Star Team and the Dudley "Red" Garrett Memorial Award as the League’s Rookie of the Year in 1987 while playing with the Moncton Golden Flames
· 19 NHL Seasons played with the Calgary Flames, St. Louis Blues, Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, Phoenix Coyotes
· Three-time NHL First-Team All-Star (1990, 1991, 1992)
· 8 NHL All-Star Games Played (1989, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 2001)
· Lady Byng Memorial Trophy (1990)
· Lester B. Pearson Award winner, Hart Memorial Trophy winner (1991)
· 5th Player in NHL history to record 50 goals in 50 games or less, behind Gretzky, Richard, Bossy, Lemieux.
· Served as captain of the St. Louis Blues 1992-95;
· Recorded three consecutive 70-goal seasons 1989-90, 1990-91, 1991-92, including a career-high 86 goals in 1991
· Led the St. Louis Blues in goals 1988-89 to 1996-97; points 1988-89 to 1991-92, and 1994-95 to 1997-98; power-play goals 1988-89 to 1997-98
· Holds records as the St. Louis Blues’ all-time leader in regular season goals (527), hat tricks (27), game-winning goals (701), power-play goals (195), and shots on goal (3,367)
· Holds records as the St. Louis Blues’ all-time leader for most goals (86) and points (131), power play goals (29) in one season; most 30+ goal (8), most 40+ goal (8), and most 50+ goal seasons (5)
· Holds records as the St. Louis Blues’ all-time leader in playoff games played (102), playoff goals (67), points (117), and game-winning goals (15).
· Recorded 100+ points on 4 occasions (1990, 1991, 1992, 1993)
· Along with his father, Bobby Hull, became the only NHL father-son duo to each record 1000 career points (1995-96)and 600 career goals (1998-99)
· His 24 career playoff game-winning goals are tied with Gretzky for the most in NHL history
· Ranks 3rd in NHL regular season career goals (741) behind Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Howe
· Ranks 3rd in the NHL for most goals, including playoffs (844), and most goals, one season (86)
· Two Stanley Cup championships; Dallas Stars, 1999, Detroit Red Wings, 2002
· Represented the USA at two Olympic Winter Games (1998, 2002 - silver), two World Cups (1996 - gold, 2004 - bronze), at the 1991 Canada Cup (runners-up), and the 1986 IIHF World Championship.
· NHL Regular Season Career: 1269 games played, 741 goals, 650 assists, 1391 points
· NHL Playoff Career: 202 games played, 103 goals, 87 assists, 190 points
· Retired from NHL play; October 16, 2005
· Sweater number (#16) retired by the St. Louis Blues in 2006
· Inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame, 2008
· Currently serves as the Co-General Manager of the Dallas Stars
BRIAN LEETCH
· Born March 3, 1968 in Corpus Christi, Texas
· Played NCAA hockey at Boston College where he was named a Hockey East First All-Star Team, Hockey East Rookie of the Year, Hockey East Player of the Year, NCAA East First All-American Team, and a Hobey Baker Award finalist, 1987
· Picked 9th overall in the 1986 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Rangers
· 18 NHL seasons played with the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Boston Bruins
· Two-time James Norris Memorial Trophy winner (1992, 1997)
· Calder Memorial Trophy Winner and NHL All-Rookie Team, 1989
· Lester Patrick Award Winner, 2007
· NHL First All-Star Team: 1992, 1997
· NHL Second All-Star Team: 1991, 1994, 1996
· Nine NHL All-Star Games Played (1990, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2002)
· Served as Captain of the New York Rangers 1997-2000
· Holds New York Rangers records for most career goals (240), assists (741), most assists in a season (80), most points by a defence-man (981), and most assists by a defence-man in one season (102)
· Ranks 2nd among Rangers all-time points leaders (981), games played (1129), and points by a rookie (71)
· Holds NHL Record for most goals by a rookie defence-man in one season with 23 (1988-89), and ranks 2nd in the league for most points by a defence-man in one season with 71
· Marked his 1000th point on October 18, 2005 while playing for the Boston Bruins
· 1 Stanley Cup Championship; 1993-94 New York Rangers
· Became the first U.S. born player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1994, after leading the league in playoff scoring
· Represented the U.S.A. on three occasions at the Winter Olympic Games (1988, 1998, 2002), serving as team captain of the 1988 team, and a silver medal performance at the 2002 Olympics
· Represented his native U.S.A. at three IIHF World Junior Championships (1985-87) where he was named to the 1987 First All-Star Team; two IIHF World Championships (1987, 1989); two World Cups (1996, 2004), and at the 1991 Canada Cup
· One of 12 players to be named to the All-Time USA Hockey Team, 1997
· NHL Regular Season Career: 1205 games played, 247 goals, 781 assists, for 1028 points
· NHL Playoff Career: 95 games played, 28 goals, 69 assists, 97 points
· Announced his retirement from NHL play; May 24, 2007
· Sweater number (#2) retired by the New York Rangers; January 24, 2008
· Inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame, 2008
LUC ROBITAILLE
· Born on February 17, 1966 in Montreal, Quebec
· As a member of the Hull Olympiques, was named to the QMJHL Second All-Star Team in 1985
· Was named to the QMJHL First All-Star Team, Memorial Cup Tournament All-Star Team, 1986
· Canadian Major Junior Player of the Year, 1986
· Picked 171st overall, as the Los Angeles Kings’ 9th choice, in the 1984 NHL Entry Draft
· 19 NHL seasons played with the Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings
· Calder Memorial Trophy winner and NHL All-Rookie Team, 1987
· Represented Canada on three occasions: silver medalist at the 1986 IIHF World Junior Championship, 1991 Canada Cup champion, and gold medalist at the 1994 IIHF World Championship where Robitaille recorded the championship-winning goal
· Five-time NHL First Team All-Star (1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993)
· Three-time NHL Second Team All-Star (1987, 1992, 2001)
· Eight NHL All-Star Games Played (1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1999, 2001)
· Served as co-captain of the Los Angeles Kings 1992-93 with Gretzky
· Holds Los Angeles Kings records for most career goals (557), and most points by a rookie(84), 1986-87
· Holds NHL record for most career goals (668), career points (1394), and points in a single season (125, 1992-93) by a Left Winger
· Ranks 2nd among NHL Left Wingers for goals in one season (63), and career assists (726)
· Ranks 10th among NHL All-Time Goal Scoring Leaders (668)
· Ranks 19th among All-Time Points Leaders (1394) and Games Played (1431)
· Recorded the third-most consecutive 40+ goal seasons (8) behind Gretzky and Bossy
· As a member of the Los Angeles Kings, marked his 500th career goal (Jan. 7, 1999) to become the 6th Left Winger in League history to reach that plateau
· Marked his 1,000th career point Jan. 29, 1998 as a Los Angeles King
· One Stanley Cup championship with Detroit Red Wings, 2002
· NHL Regular Season Career: 1431 games played, 668 goals, 726 assists, 1394 points
· NHL Playoff Career: 159 games played, 58 goals, 69 assists, 127 points
· Retired from NHL play; April 17, 2006
· Sweater number (#20) was retired by the Los Angeles Kings in 2007
· Currently serves as President, Business Operations, Alternate Governor for the Los Angeles Kings
STEVE YZERMAN
· Born on May 9, 1965 in Cranbrook, British Columbia
· Picked 4th overall in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft by the Detroit Red Wings
· 22 NHL seasons played with the Detroit Red Wings
· In his Rookie year, set Detroit records for goals (37) and points (87) for a rookie; he became the youngest player to play in the NHL All-Star Game (age 18), was runner-up to the Calder Trophy, and was named to the NHL’s All-Rookie Team (1984)
· Served as Captain of the Red Wings 1986-2006, the youngest player to be named Detroit’s Captain (age 21), and the longest-serving Captain in League history
· Holds Red Wings records for most career assists (1063), most goals in one season (65), most assists in one season (90), most points in one season (155)
· Lester B. Pearson Award (1989)
· Conn Smythe Trophy (1998)
· Frank J. Selke Trophy (2000)
· Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy (2003)
· Lester Patrick Trophy (2007)
· Nine NHL All-Star Games played (1984, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1997, 2000)
· Six 100+ point seasons (1987-93), and five 50+ goal seasons (1987-91 and 1992-93)
· Finished in the League’s top ten in scoring 6 times
· Ranks 5th in the NHL for all-time most career points, including playoffs (1940); most career goals (692), assists (1063), and points (1755) by a Centre
· Ranks 8th in the NHL among all-time top goal-scoring leaders (692); 7th among all-time assists leaders (1063); 6th among all-time point scorers (1755); and 11th among all-time games-played leaders (1514)
· Marked his 500th career goal on Jan. 17, 1996 vs. Colorado Avalanche, and his 1000th NHL point on Feb. 24, 1993 vs. Buffalo Sabres
· 20 NHL post-season appearances
· Three Stanley Cup championships with the Red Wings (1997, 1998, 2002),
· Represented Canada on multiple occasions: bronze medalist at the 1983 IIHF World Junior Championship; champion at the 1984 Canada Cup; silver medalist at the 1996 World Cup; 3 appearances at the IIHF World Championship (1985 – silver medalist, 1989 – silver medalist, 1990); two-time Olympian (1998, 2002 – gold medalist)
· Named the 1990 IIHF World Championship Best Forward
· NHL Regular Season Career: 1514 games played, 692 goals, 1063 assists, 1765 points
· NHL Playoff Career: 196 games played, 70 goals, 115 assists, 185 points
· Retired from NHL play; July 3, 2006
· Sweater number (#19) was retired by the Detroit Red Wings; January 2, 2007
· Currently serves the Detroit Red Wings as Vice-President, Hockey, and as General Manager of Team Canada for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
LOU LAMORIELLO
· Born October 21, 1942 in Providence, Rhode Island
· Attended Providence College and then continued on as a Coach and Athletic Director (1967-1987) 15 years as a Coach, 5 years as Athletic Director
· Captained both hockey and baseball teams while an undergraduate
· Played, coached and managed in the Cape Cod Baseball League
· Served as an assistant coach for four years at Providence immediately following graduation – in both hockey and baseball
· Served as a member of Big East Conference Television Committee and NCAA Professional Sports Committee
· One of the co-founders of the Hockey East Association
· Served as Commissioner of Hockey East from 1983-1987
· Lamoriello Cup has served as Hockey East’s Championship award since 1989
· Became the New Jersey Devils President in April 1987 and assumed dual role as President and General Manager prior to the 1987-88 training camp; a position he has held for 21 seasons
· Has assumed role of Head Coach of the Devils twice during his tenure: December 19, 2005 through the 2006 Playoffs and from April 2, 2007 through the 2007 Playoffs
· Won the Stanley Cup three times – 1995, 2000 and 2003
· Led Albany River Rats to the AHL Calder Cup Championship in 1995; became the first club since the 1976-77 season to win dual NHL/AHL championships
· A member of the NHL Board of Governor Executive Committee and a member of the General Managers’ Steering Committee
· Served as General Manager of Team USA during the 1996 World Cup of Hockey and the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics
· Over last 13 seasons with New Jersey, the Devils had had ten 100 point seasons and have won 4 Eastern Conference and 7 Atlantic Division championships
· Inducted into the Providence College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1982
· Named winner of the Lester Patrick Trophy in 1992
· Named recipient of the 2000 Unico National Vince Lombardi Award for Professional Sports Achievement
· Received Honorary Doctorate Degree from Providence College in 2001
· Inducted into New Jersey Sports Hall of Fame in 2002
· Received Ellis Island Medal of Honor, May 2003
· Inducted into the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame and the LaSalle Academy (Rhode Island) Hall of Fame in 2004
· Member of the Board of Directors of the Yogi Berra Museum since 2006
· Currently also holds title of CEO, as well and President and General Manager
“The Hockey Hall of Fame is proud to welcome these five hockey legends as Honoured Members,” said Jim Gregory. “Their contributions to the game of hockey are well documented and their election to the Hockey Hall of Fame is richly deserved.”
A native of Belleville, Ontario, Brett Hull played college hockey for two seasons at the University of Minnesota Duluth, before embarking on his professional career in 1986. Hull played 19 NHL seasons, winning Stanley Cups with Detroit and Dallas. A three-time first team NHL All-Star, along with his father Bobby, he is the only NHL father-son duo to each record 600 goals and 1,000 career points.
“It is hard to put into words what this means to me; especially since I’m joining my father in the Hockey Hall of Fame,” said Hull. “Simply getting to the NHL was a challenge for me, and I would like to thank all of my supporters who made many sacrifices on my behalf.”
Brian Leetch played his collegiate hockey at Boston College and was drafted in the first round (9th overall) in 1986. He turned pro with the Rangers in 1987 and went on to play 18 NHL seasons, winning the James Norris trophy twice. Leetch was a key member of the Rangers’ 1993-94 Stanley Cup winning team and became the first U.S. born player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy as the NHL’s playoff MVP.
“I am humbled and excited by this honour, particularly since for me it is difficult to think of myself as a member of the Hall of Fame,” said Leetch. “My hockey career has been a long and enjoyable process. I am appreciative of all those who have helped me. From my father as my youth coach, to Mark Messier who helped me out so much -- both on and off the ice surface.”
Luc Robitaille played his Junior hockey in Hull, Quebec under the tutelage of Pat Burns. A late selection (9th round) of the Los Angeles Kings in 1984, he went on to win the Calder Trophy in his rookie season in 1987. He played 19 NHL seasons, ranking 10th amongst NHLers all time in scoring and his eight 40+ goal seasons are only surpassed by Wayne Gretzky and Mike Bossy.
“My goal was always just to play in the NHL and I never dreamed of anything beyond that,” said Robitaille. “To be honoured in the same room as The Rocket, Guy Lafleur and Wayne Gretzky is a tremendous honour.”
Steve Yzerman was selected 4th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 1983 Entry Draft and went on to play 22 seasons for the Wings. The longest serving team captain in Red Wings history (1986 until 2006), Yzerman holds numerous team records, led the team to three Stanley Cups and was a member of Canada’s gold medal winning Olympic team in 2002.
“It is a tremendous honour to receive this news,” said Steve Yzerman. “I want to thank the Selection Committee for recognizing my contributions – I truly had chills down my spine when I got the news.”
In the Builder Category, long-time New Jersey Devils General Manager, Lou Lamoriello was honoured for his over 40 years of contributions to the game – both at the collegiate and NHL levels. Under his leadership the Devils have won three Stanley Cups: in 1995, 2000 and 2003.
“This award is completely unexpected,” said Lamoriello. “Over my career I have been fortunate to have been associated with great players and coaches, and this award recognizes their contributions to my career.”
The 2009 Induction Celebration will be held on Monday, November 9th at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. For more information regarding the 2009 Induction Weekend/Celebration, visit http://www.hhof.com.
Established in 1943, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a museum and place of entertainment offering state-of-the-art multimedia presentations and exhibits from its premises at Brookfield Place, Toronto, Canada. Its mandate is to recognize and honour the achievements of individuals who bring special distinction to the game of hockey, and to collect and preserve objects, images and resource materials connected with the game as it is played in Canada and throughout the world.
BRETT HULL
· Born August 9, 1964 in Belleville, Ontario
· Holds BCHL record for most goals in a season with 105, set in 1983-84; Penticton Knights
· On scholarship at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, was named the WCHA Freshman of the Year (1985) and a WCHA First-Team All-Star (1986)
· Picked 117th overall, as the Calgary Flames’ 6th choice, in the 1984 NHL Entry Draft
· Member of the AHL’s First All-Star Team and the Dudley "Red" Garrett Memorial Award as the League’s Rookie of the Year in 1987 while playing with the Moncton Golden Flames
· 19 NHL Seasons played with the Calgary Flames, St. Louis Blues, Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, Phoenix Coyotes
· Three-time NHL First-Team All-Star (1990, 1991, 1992)
· 8 NHL All-Star Games Played (1989, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 2001)
· Lady Byng Memorial Trophy (1990)
· Lester B. Pearson Award winner, Hart Memorial Trophy winner (1991)
· 5th Player in NHL history to record 50 goals in 50 games or less, behind Gretzky, Richard, Bossy, Lemieux.
· Served as captain of the St. Louis Blues 1992-95;
· Recorded three consecutive 70-goal seasons 1989-90, 1990-91, 1991-92, including a career-high 86 goals in 1991
· Led the St. Louis Blues in goals 1988-89 to 1996-97; points 1988-89 to 1991-92, and 1994-95 to 1997-98; power-play goals 1988-89 to 1997-98
· Holds records as the St. Louis Blues’ all-time leader in regular season goals (527), hat tricks (27), game-winning goals (701), power-play goals (195), and shots on goal (3,367)
· Holds records as the St. Louis Blues’ all-time leader for most goals (86) and points (131), power play goals (29) in one season; most 30+ goal (8), most 40+ goal (8), and most 50+ goal seasons (5)
· Holds records as the St. Louis Blues’ all-time leader in playoff games played (102), playoff goals (67), points (117), and game-winning goals (15).
· Recorded 100+ points on 4 occasions (1990, 1991, 1992, 1993)
· Along with his father, Bobby Hull, became the only NHL father-son duo to each record 1000 career points (1995-96)and 600 career goals (1998-99)
· His 24 career playoff game-winning goals are tied with Gretzky for the most in NHL history
· Ranks 3rd in NHL regular season career goals (741) behind Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Howe
· Ranks 3rd in the NHL for most goals, including playoffs (844), and most goals, one season (86)
· Two Stanley Cup championships; Dallas Stars, 1999, Detroit Red Wings, 2002
· Represented the USA at two Olympic Winter Games (1998, 2002 - silver), two World Cups (1996 - gold, 2004 - bronze), at the 1991 Canada Cup (runners-up), and the 1986 IIHF World Championship.
· NHL Regular Season Career: 1269 games played, 741 goals, 650 assists, 1391 points
· NHL Playoff Career: 202 games played, 103 goals, 87 assists, 190 points
· Retired from NHL play; October 16, 2005
· Sweater number (#16) retired by the St. Louis Blues in 2006
· Inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame, 2008
· Currently serves as the Co-General Manager of the Dallas Stars
BRIAN LEETCH
· Born March 3, 1968 in Corpus Christi, Texas
· Played NCAA hockey at Boston College where he was named a Hockey East First All-Star Team, Hockey East Rookie of the Year, Hockey East Player of the Year, NCAA East First All-American Team, and a Hobey Baker Award finalist, 1987
· Picked 9th overall in the 1986 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Rangers
· 18 NHL seasons played with the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Boston Bruins
· Two-time James Norris Memorial Trophy winner (1992, 1997)
· Calder Memorial Trophy Winner and NHL All-Rookie Team, 1989
· Lester Patrick Award Winner, 2007
· NHL First All-Star Team: 1992, 1997
· NHL Second All-Star Team: 1991, 1994, 1996
· Nine NHL All-Star Games Played (1990, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2002)
· Served as Captain of the New York Rangers 1997-2000
· Holds New York Rangers records for most career goals (240), assists (741), most assists in a season (80), most points by a defence-man (981), and most assists by a defence-man in one season (102)
· Ranks 2nd among Rangers all-time points leaders (981), games played (1129), and points by a rookie (71)
· Holds NHL Record for most goals by a rookie defence-man in one season with 23 (1988-89), and ranks 2nd in the league for most points by a defence-man in one season with 71
· Marked his 1000th point on October 18, 2005 while playing for the Boston Bruins
· 1 Stanley Cup Championship; 1993-94 New York Rangers
· Became the first U.S. born player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1994, after leading the league in playoff scoring
· Represented the U.S.A. on three occasions at the Winter Olympic Games (1988, 1998, 2002), serving as team captain of the 1988 team, and a silver medal performance at the 2002 Olympics
· Represented his native U.S.A. at three IIHF World Junior Championships (1985-87) where he was named to the 1987 First All-Star Team; two IIHF World Championships (1987, 1989); two World Cups (1996, 2004), and at the 1991 Canada Cup
· One of 12 players to be named to the All-Time USA Hockey Team, 1997
· NHL Regular Season Career: 1205 games played, 247 goals, 781 assists, for 1028 points
· NHL Playoff Career: 95 games played, 28 goals, 69 assists, 97 points
· Announced his retirement from NHL play; May 24, 2007
· Sweater number (#2) retired by the New York Rangers; January 24, 2008
· Inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame, 2008
LUC ROBITAILLE
· Born on February 17, 1966 in Montreal, Quebec
· As a member of the Hull Olympiques, was named to the QMJHL Second All-Star Team in 1985
· Was named to the QMJHL First All-Star Team, Memorial Cup Tournament All-Star Team, 1986
· Canadian Major Junior Player of the Year, 1986
· Picked 171st overall, as the Los Angeles Kings’ 9th choice, in the 1984 NHL Entry Draft
· 19 NHL seasons played with the Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings
· Calder Memorial Trophy winner and NHL All-Rookie Team, 1987
· Represented Canada on three occasions: silver medalist at the 1986 IIHF World Junior Championship, 1991 Canada Cup champion, and gold medalist at the 1994 IIHF World Championship where Robitaille recorded the championship-winning goal
· Five-time NHL First Team All-Star (1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993)
· Three-time NHL Second Team All-Star (1987, 1992, 2001)
· Eight NHL All-Star Games Played (1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1999, 2001)
· Served as co-captain of the Los Angeles Kings 1992-93 with Gretzky
· Holds Los Angeles Kings records for most career goals (557), and most points by a rookie(84), 1986-87
· Holds NHL record for most career goals (668), career points (1394), and points in a single season (125, 1992-93) by a Left Winger
· Ranks 2nd among NHL Left Wingers for goals in one season (63), and career assists (726)
· Ranks 10th among NHL All-Time Goal Scoring Leaders (668)
· Ranks 19th among All-Time Points Leaders (1394) and Games Played (1431)
· Recorded the third-most consecutive 40+ goal seasons (8) behind Gretzky and Bossy
· As a member of the Los Angeles Kings, marked his 500th career goal (Jan. 7, 1999) to become the 6th Left Winger in League history to reach that plateau
· Marked his 1,000th career point Jan. 29, 1998 as a Los Angeles King
· One Stanley Cup championship with Detroit Red Wings, 2002
· NHL Regular Season Career: 1431 games played, 668 goals, 726 assists, 1394 points
· NHL Playoff Career: 159 games played, 58 goals, 69 assists, 127 points
· Retired from NHL play; April 17, 2006
· Sweater number (#20) was retired by the Los Angeles Kings in 2007
· Currently serves as President, Business Operations, Alternate Governor for the Los Angeles Kings
STEVE YZERMAN
· Born on May 9, 1965 in Cranbrook, British Columbia
· Picked 4th overall in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft by the Detroit Red Wings
· 22 NHL seasons played with the Detroit Red Wings
· In his Rookie year, set Detroit records for goals (37) and points (87) for a rookie; he became the youngest player to play in the NHL All-Star Game (age 18), was runner-up to the Calder Trophy, and was named to the NHL’s All-Rookie Team (1984)
· Served as Captain of the Red Wings 1986-2006, the youngest player to be named Detroit’s Captain (age 21), and the longest-serving Captain in League history
· Holds Red Wings records for most career assists (1063), most goals in one season (65), most assists in one season (90), most points in one season (155)
· Lester B. Pearson Award (1989)
· Conn Smythe Trophy (1998)
· Frank J. Selke Trophy (2000)
· Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy (2003)
· Lester Patrick Trophy (2007)
· Nine NHL All-Star Games played (1984, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1997, 2000)
· Six 100+ point seasons (1987-93), and five 50+ goal seasons (1987-91 and 1992-93)
· Finished in the League’s top ten in scoring 6 times
· Ranks 5th in the NHL for all-time most career points, including playoffs (1940); most career goals (692), assists (1063), and points (1755) by a Centre
· Ranks 8th in the NHL among all-time top goal-scoring leaders (692); 7th among all-time assists leaders (1063); 6th among all-time point scorers (1755); and 11th among all-time games-played leaders (1514)
· Marked his 500th career goal on Jan. 17, 1996 vs. Colorado Avalanche, and his 1000th NHL point on Feb. 24, 1993 vs. Buffalo Sabres
· 20 NHL post-season appearances
· Three Stanley Cup championships with the Red Wings (1997, 1998, 2002),
· Represented Canada on multiple occasions: bronze medalist at the 1983 IIHF World Junior Championship; champion at the 1984 Canada Cup; silver medalist at the 1996 World Cup; 3 appearances at the IIHF World Championship (1985 – silver medalist, 1989 – silver medalist, 1990); two-time Olympian (1998, 2002 – gold medalist)
· Named the 1990 IIHF World Championship Best Forward
· NHL Regular Season Career: 1514 games played, 692 goals, 1063 assists, 1765 points
· NHL Playoff Career: 196 games played, 70 goals, 115 assists, 185 points
· Retired from NHL play; July 3, 2006
· Sweater number (#19) was retired by the Detroit Red Wings; January 2, 2007
· Currently serves the Detroit Red Wings as Vice-President, Hockey, and as General Manager of Team Canada for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
LOU LAMORIELLO
· Born October 21, 1942 in Providence, Rhode Island
· Attended Providence College and then continued on as a Coach and Athletic Director (1967-1987) 15 years as a Coach, 5 years as Athletic Director
· Captained both hockey and baseball teams while an undergraduate
· Played, coached and managed in the Cape Cod Baseball League
· Served as an assistant coach for four years at Providence immediately following graduation – in both hockey and baseball
· Served as a member of Big East Conference Television Committee and NCAA Professional Sports Committee
· One of the co-founders of the Hockey East Association
· Served as Commissioner of Hockey East from 1983-1987
· Lamoriello Cup has served as Hockey East’s Championship award since 1989
· Became the New Jersey Devils President in April 1987 and assumed dual role as President and General Manager prior to the 1987-88 training camp; a position he has held for 21 seasons
· Has assumed role of Head Coach of the Devils twice during his tenure: December 19, 2005 through the 2006 Playoffs and from April 2, 2007 through the 2007 Playoffs
· Won the Stanley Cup three times – 1995, 2000 and 2003
· Led Albany River Rats to the AHL Calder Cup Championship in 1995; became the first club since the 1976-77 season to win dual NHL/AHL championships
· A member of the NHL Board of Governor Executive Committee and a member of the General Managers’ Steering Committee
· Served as General Manager of Team USA during the 1996 World Cup of Hockey and the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics
· Over last 13 seasons with New Jersey, the Devils had had ten 100 point seasons and have won 4 Eastern Conference and 7 Atlantic Division championships
· Inducted into the Providence College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1982
· Named winner of the Lester Patrick Trophy in 1992
· Named recipient of the 2000 Unico National Vince Lombardi Award for Professional Sports Achievement
· Received Honorary Doctorate Degree from Providence College in 2001
· Inducted into New Jersey Sports Hall of Fame in 2002
· Received Ellis Island Medal of Honor, May 2003
· Inducted into the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame and the LaSalle Academy (Rhode Island) Hall of Fame in 2004
· Member of the Board of Directors of the Yogi Berra Museum since 2006
· Currently also holds title of CEO, as well and President and General Manager
Yzerman, Hull, Robitaille, Leetch get Hall of Fame
Tuesday, 06.23.2009 / 4:11 PM /
Associated Press
Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull, Luc Robitaille and Brian Leetch are going into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
The selection committee announced on a conference call Tuesday it had elected the maximum four players this year. All were eligible for the first time.
Yzerman retired in the summer of 2006 with the sixth-highest point total in NHL history. The longtime Detroit Red Wings captain won the Stanley Cup three times and a gold medal with Canada in the 2002 Olympics.
Hull's 741 goals rank third all-time, Robitaille's 668 are the most by a left wing and Leetch is one of just five defensemen to have a 100-point season.
A player must be retired for three seasons before becoming eligible to enter the Hall. The induction ceremony will be Nov. 9.
New Jersey Devils president Lou Lamoriello was also elected in the builder category.
Yzerman, Hull and Robitaille won a Stanley Cup together with the Detroit Red Wings in 2002.
Hull retired in 2005 after a 19-year career with the Calgary Flames, St. Louis Blues, Dallas Stars, Red Wings and Phoenix Coyotes. He scored 86 goals in 1991 and received the Hart Trophy as league MVP.
His 741 goals trail only Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Howe. His 24 career playoff game-winning goals are tied with Gretzky for the most in NHL history. He scored the Stanley Cup-winning goal for the Stars in the third overtime of Game 6 of the 1999 finals.
He's now the Stars' executive vice president.
Leetch became the first American-born player to earn the Conn Smythe Trophy after leading the New York Rangers to the Stanley Cup in 1994. He also twice won the Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman.
Robitaille received the Calder Trophy as the league's top rookie in 1987.
At least 14 of the Hall's 18-member selection committee must vote for a player for him to be elected.
Associated Press
Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull, Luc Robitaille and Brian Leetch are going into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
The selection committee announced on a conference call Tuesday it had elected the maximum four players this year. All were eligible for the first time.
Yzerman retired in the summer of 2006 with the sixth-highest point total in NHL history. The longtime Detroit Red Wings captain won the Stanley Cup three times and a gold medal with Canada in the 2002 Olympics.
Hull's 741 goals rank third all-time, Robitaille's 668 are the most by a left wing and Leetch is one of just five defensemen to have a 100-point season.
A player must be retired for three seasons before becoming eligible to enter the Hall. The induction ceremony will be Nov. 9.
New Jersey Devils president Lou Lamoriello was also elected in the builder category.
Yzerman, Hull and Robitaille won a Stanley Cup together with the Detroit Red Wings in 2002.
Hull retired in 2005 after a 19-year career with the Calgary Flames, St. Louis Blues, Dallas Stars, Red Wings and Phoenix Coyotes. He scored 86 goals in 1991 and received the Hart Trophy as league MVP.
His 741 goals trail only Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Howe. His 24 career playoff game-winning goals are tied with Gretzky for the most in NHL history. He scored the Stanley Cup-winning goal for the Stars in the third overtime of Game 6 of the 1999 finals.
He's now the Stars' executive vice president.
Leetch became the first American-born player to earn the Conn Smythe Trophy after leading the New York Rangers to the Stanley Cup in 1994. He also twice won the Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman.
Robitaille received the Calder Trophy as the league's top rookie in 1987.
At least 14 of the Hall's 18-member selection committee must vote for a player for him to be elected.
BYLSMA, HOLLAND NAMED COACH, GM OF THE YEAR
TORONTO – Dan Bylsma’s incredible and improbable run to a Stanley Cup has earned him the NHL coach of the year award as selected by The Hockey News.
From the moment he stepped behind the Penguins bench in mid-February, Bylsma encouraged an aggressive approach that meshed perfectly with the mentality of the team’s young core.
The 38-year-old from Grand Haven, Mich., led Pittsburgh to an 18-2-4 regular season finish, before repeating as Eastern Conference playoff champions and winning the Cup in a thrilling seven-game final over the Detroit Red Wings.
The architect of that Wings team, Ken Holland, earned our GM-of-the-year honors for his work in very nearly leading Detroit to back-to-back championships.
The Hockey News’ annual coach and GM accolades take into account both regular season and playoff performance.
Holland continued to show incredible acumen in his position, signing franchise cornerstone Henrik Zetterberg and power forward Johan Franzen to long-term, salary cap friendly deals and refusing to panic over the play of Chris Osgood when the veteran goalie stumbled badly during the regular season.
Also in the running for top GM honors were Ray Shero of the Penguins and Jim Rutherford for his work in patching together a Carolina roster that advanced to the East final.
Bylsma bested worthy coaching candidates Claude Julien, who guided Boston to the best regular season record in the East, and Chicago’s Joel Quenneville, who, like Bylsma, also showed great intuition working with a young, skill-laden squad.
In Play! magazine
From the moment he stepped behind the Penguins bench in mid-February, Bylsma encouraged an aggressive approach that meshed perfectly with the mentality of the team’s young core.
The 38-year-old from Grand Haven, Mich., led Pittsburgh to an 18-2-4 regular season finish, before repeating as Eastern Conference playoff champions and winning the Cup in a thrilling seven-game final over the Detroit Red Wings.
The architect of that Wings team, Ken Holland, earned our GM-of-the-year honors for his work in very nearly leading Detroit to back-to-back championships.
The Hockey News’ annual coach and GM accolades take into account both regular season and playoff performance.
Holland continued to show incredible acumen in his position, signing franchise cornerstone Henrik Zetterberg and power forward Johan Franzen to long-term, salary cap friendly deals and refusing to panic over the play of Chris Osgood when the veteran goalie stumbled badly during the regular season.
Also in the running for top GM honors were Ray Shero of the Penguins and Jim Rutherford for his work in patching together a Carolina roster that advanced to the East final.
Bylsma bested worthy coaching candidates Claude Julien, who guided Boston to the best regular season record in the East, and Chicago’s Joel Quenneville, who, like Bylsma, also showed great intuition working with a young, skill-laden squad.
In Play! magazine
Friday, June 12, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
The new June issue of In Play! magazine is out.
This month we take a look at the Red Bull Air Races. In Play! sat down for a one on one exclusive interview with Mike Mangold. Get his thoughts on the course and returning to Detroit.
Check out great articles on all the sports going on here in Detroit and Windsor including, the Pistons, the Shock's quest to defend their title, Tigers and a look at the QB situation over in Allen Park plus a whole lot more.
Also take a look at the Wings run for the Cup.
Don't forget you can cut/paste this link and send it to all your sports buddies!
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Sid the Kid, Just That...
Sid the Kid, Just That...
http://www.inplaymagaizne.com/
Well the Pittsburg Penguins goon squad was out in full force last night as the pesky Pens failed to tally a marker against the high flying Red Wings.
Sidney Crosby must grow a bit and do it fast or his team will be on the outside looking in for a second year in a row. Another Stanley Cup lose could prove detrimental to the Pens’ team during the off-season.
Last night’s game five was more of a circus side show from the defending Eastern conference champs than a match up.
The box score reads more like a laundry list of tips on “How to be a goon squad”.
Three 10-minute misconducts, three slashing penalties, elbowing, high sticking, interference with the goal keeper...12 penalties in all. It was reminiscent of game four in Chicago where the Black Hawks were in a constant parade to the sin bin with 16 penalties.
This is where “Sid the Kid” must stop being a kid and become a leader. The big “C” means leading by example and letting the wheels come off like last night’s train wreck is not the way to do it.
The most despicable act from last night’s game was Maxime Talbot’s slash on Pavel Datsyuk’s injured foot.
Well the Pittsburg Penguins goon squad was out in full force last night as the pesky Pens failed to tally a marker against the high flying Red Wings.
Sidney Crosby must grow a bit and do it fast or his team will be on the outside looking in for a second year in a row. Another Stanley Cup lose could prove detrimental to the Pens’ team during the off-season.
Last night’s game five was more of a circus side show from the defending Eastern conference champs than a match up.
The box score reads more like a laundry list of tips on “How to be a goon squad”.
Three 10-minute misconducts, three slashing penalties, elbowing, high sticking, interference with the goal keeper...12 penalties in all. It was reminiscent of game four in Chicago where the Black Hawks were in a constant parade to the sin bin with 16 penalties.
This is where “Sid the Kid” must stop being a kid and become a leader. The big “C” means leading by example and letting the wheels come off like last night’s train wreck is not the way to do it.
The most despicable act from last night’s game was Maxime Talbot’s slash on Pavel Datsyuk’s injured foot.
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