RED WINGS RE-SIGN McGRATH, OULAHEN TO ONE-YEAR CONTRACTS

Detroit… Detroit Red Wings Executive Vice President/General Manager Ken Holland today announced the team has re-signed forwards Evan McGrath and Ryan Oulahen to one-year contracts. In keeping with club policy, additional terms of the contracts were not disclosed.

McGrath, 23, was Detroit’s fourth round pick (128th overall) in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. He spent the last three seasons with the Wings American Hockey League affiliate Grand Rapids Griffins, posting a career-high 47 points in 68 games this past season.

Oulahen, 24, completed his fourth season with Grand Rapids in 2008-09, recording a career high 31 points in 73 games. Oulahen was drafted by the Red Wings in the fifth round (164th overall) of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.

In Play! Magazine

RED WINGS ANNOUNCE 2009-10 SCHEDULE

Wings Open Home Schedule vs. Chicago and Washington

Detroit, MI…The Detroit Red Wings today announced their 2009-10 schedule. The Wings open the regular season in Stockholm Sweden with a “home-and-home” series vs. the St. Louis Blues on Oct. 2 and 3. The home schedule at Joe Louis Arena begins with a pair of exciting contests against last year’s Western Conference finalists Chicago Blackhawks and last season’s Hart Trophy Winner Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals.

Following last season’s exciting Outdoor Classic at Wrigley Field on January 1st, Detroit returns to its traditional New Year’s Eve home game as the Wings host the Colorado Avalanche at Joe Louis Arena. Other highlights include a two-game rematch of the Stanley Cup Final vs. Pittsburgh (Jan. 31 at Mellon Arena and Mar. 22 at Joe Louis Arena) and a total of 15 home games on Fridays and Saturdays.

Fans can still lock in the lowest available prices for the 2009-10 season by becoming a Red Wings season-ticket holder. To select your plan, call the Ticket Sales and Service Department at 313-396-7575.

2009-10 PRE-SEASON SCHEDULE

DATE DAY OPPONENT SITE TIME (ET)
September 16 Wed. PHILADELPHIA Joe Louis Arena 7:30

18 Fri. NY RANGERS Joe Louis Arena 7:30

19 Sat. BUFFALO Joe Louis Arena 7:00

21 Mon. at NY Rangers Madison Square Garden 7:00

22 Tue. At Philadelphia Wachovia Center 7:00

25 Fri. TORONTO Joe Louis Arena 7:30

26 Sat. At Toronto Air Canada Centre 7:00

27 Sun. PITTSBURGH Joe Louis Arena 5:00

30 Wed. At Farjestads BK Karlstad, Sweden TBD



2009-10 REGULAR SEASON

DATE DAY OPPONENT SITE TIME (ET)
October 2 Fri. At St. Louis Stockholm, SWE 3:00

3 Sat. ST. LOUIS Stockholm, SWE 3:00

8 Thur. CHICAGO Joe Louis Arena 7:30

10 Sat. WASHINGTON Joe Louis Arena 7:00

13 Tue. At Buffalo HSBC Arena 7:00

15 Thur. LOS ANGELES Joe Louis Arena 7:30

17 Sat. COLORADO Joe Louis Arena 7:00



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22 Thur. At Phoenix Jobing.com Arena 10:00

24 Sat. At Colorado Pepsi Center 9:00

27 Tue. At Vancouver GM Place 10:00

29 Thur. At Edmonton Rexall Place 9:30

31 Sat. At Calgary Pengrowth Saddledome 10:00

November 3 Tue. BOSTON Joe Louis Arena 7:00

5 Thur. SAN JOSE Joe Louis Arena 7:30

7 Sat. At Toronto Air Canada Centre 7:00

11 Wed. At Columbus Nationwide Arena 7:00

12 Thur. VANCOUVER Joe Louis Arena 7:30

14 Sat. ANAHEIM Joe Louis Arena 7:00

18 Wed. DALLAS Joe Louis Arena 7:30

20 Fri. FLORIDA Joe Louis Arena 7:30

21 Sat. At Montreal Bell Centre 7:00

23 Mon. At Nashville Sommet Center 6:00

25 Wed. ATLANTA Joe Louis Arena 7:30

27 Fri. CALGARY Joe Louis Arena 7:30

28 Sat. At St. Louis Savvis Center 8:00

30 Mon. DALLAS Joe Louis Arena 7:30

December 3 Thur. EDMONTON Joe Louis Arena 7:30

5 Sat. At New Jersey Prudential Center 7:00

6 Sun. At NY Rangers Madison Square Garden 7:00

9 Wed. ST. LOUIS Joe Louis Arena 7:30

11 Fri. ANAHEIM Joe Louis Arena 7:30

12 Sat. At Nashville Sommet Center 8:00

14 Mon. PHOENIX Joe Louis Arena 7:30

17 Thur. TAMPA BAY Joe Louis Arena 7:30

19 Sat. At Dallas American Airlines Center 3:00

20 Sun. At Chicago United Center 7:00

23 Wed. CHICAGO Joe Louis Arena 7:30

26 Sat. COLUMBUS Joe Louis Arena 7:00

28 Mon. At Columbus Nationwide Arena 7:00

31 Thur. COLORADO Joe Louis Arena 7:00

January 2 Sat. At Phoenix Jobing.com Arena 8:00

5 Tue. At Anaheim Honda Center 10:00

7 Thur. At Los Angeles Staples Center 10:30

9 Sat. At San Jose HP Pavilion 10:30

12 Tue. At NY Isanders Nassau Coliseum 7:00

14 Thur. CAROLINA Joe Louis Arena 7:30

16 Sat. At Dallas American Airlines Center 2:00

17 Sun. CHICAGO Joe Louis Arena 3:00

19 Tue. At Washington Verizon Center 7:00

21 Thur. At Minnesota Excel Energy Center 8:00

23 Sat. LOS ANGELES Joe Louis Arena 7:00

26 Tue. PHOENIX Joe Louis Arena 7:30

27 Wed. At Minnesota Excel Energy 8:00

29 Fri. NASHVILLE Joe Louis Arena 7:30

31 Sun. At Pittsburgh Mellon Arena 3:00



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February 2 Tue. At San Jose HP Pavilion 10:30

3 Wed. At Anaheim Honda Center 10:00

6 Sat. At Los Angeles Staples Center 4:00

9 Tue. At St. Louis Savvis Center 8:00

11 Thur. SAN JOSE Joe Louis Arena 7:30

13 Sat. OTTAWA Joe Louis Arena 7:00

OLYMPIC BREAK

March 1 Mon. At Colorado Pepsi Center 9:00

3 Wed. VANCOUVER Joe Louis Arena 7:30

5 Fri. NASHVILLE Joe Louis Arena 7:30

7 Sun. At Chicago United Center 7:00

9 Tue. CALGARY Joe Louis Arena 7:30

11 Thur. MINNESOTA Joe Louis Arena 7:30

13 Sat. BUFFALO Joe Louis Arena 7:00

15 Mon. At Calgary Pengrowth Saddledome 9:30

19 Fri. At Edmonton Rexall Place 9:00

20 Sat. At Vancouver GM Place 10:00

22 Mon. PITTSBURGH Joe Louis Arena 7:00

24 Wed. ST. LOUIS Joe Louis Arena 7:30

26 Fri. MINNESOTA Joe Louis Arena 7:30

27 Sat. At Nashville Sommet Center 8:00

30 Tue. EDMONTON Joe Louis Arena 7:30

April 1 Thur. COLUMBUS Joe Louis Arena 7:30

3 Sat. NASHVILLE Joe Louis Arena 2:00

4 Sun. At Philadelphia Wachovia Center 3:00

7 Wed. COLUMBUS Joe Louis Arena 7:30

9 Fri. At Columbus Nationwide Arena 7:00

11 Sun. At Chicago United Center 3:00

In Play! magazine

RED WINGS ANNOUNCE 2009-10 PRE-SEASON SLATE

Photo by Jack Rosenberg

Eastern Conference Preseason Slate Has Flyers, Rangers, Sabres, Leafs and PenguinsVisiting Joe Louis Arena

Detroit, MI…The Detroit Red Wings today announced their return to the ice with their 2009-10 pre-season schedule. Eight of the nine preseason opponents are from the Eastern Conference including the Philadelphia Flyers, New York Rangers and defending Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Wings continue to fly east for their ninth and final preseason contest when the Wings travel to Karlstad, Sweden to take on the defending champions of the Swedish Elite League, Farjestads BK.

On-sale dates for individual pre-season games have not been announced.

2009-10 PRE-SEASON SCHEDULE
DATE DAY SITE TIME (ET)
September 16 Wed. PHILADELPHIA Joe Louis Arena 7:30
18 Fri. NY RANGERS Joe Louis Arena 7:30
19 Sat. BUFFALO Joe Louis Arena 7:00
21 Mon. at NY Rangers Madison Square Garden 7:00
22 Tue. At Philadelphia Wachovia Center TBD
25 Fri. TORONTO Joe Louis Arena 7:30
26 Sat. At Toronto Air Canada Centre 7:00
27 Sun. PITTSBURGH Joe Louis Arena 5:00
30 Wed. At Farjestads BK Karlstad, Sweden TBD

In Play! magazine

RED WINGS TO HOLD DEVELOPMENT CAMP AT JOE LOUIS ARENA …Six 2009 NHL Entry Draft Picks To Attend…

Detroit… The Detroit Red Wings will hold their annual summer development camp July 6-12 at Joe Louis Arena. This year’s camp features a roster of 32 players (18 Red Wings prospects, 14 invitees) including six of the Wings’ seven selections from this year’s NHL Entry Draft – Landon Ferraro (2nd round, 32nd overall), Tomas Tatar (2nd round, 60th overall), Andrej Nestarsil (3rd round, 75th overall), Gleason Fournier (3rd round, 90th overall), Nick Jensen (5th round, 120th overall) and Mitchell Callahan (6th round, 150th overall). This year’s draft class will join additional Red Wings prospects and camp invitees for a week of practice, skill development, and strength/conditioning training. All practices are closed to the public. Media availability will follow each morning on-ice session. Media wishing to attend the camp should enter Joe Louis Arena through the east ground-level entrance.

2009 Detroit Red Wings Development Camp

Monday, July 6 - players arrive (evening)

Tuesday, July 7 – Saturday, July 11

8:30 – 9:15am – Skill Development

9:15 – 9:45am – Power Skating

9:45 – 10:00am – Flood

10:00 – 10:45am – Practice

10:45am – Media Availability – DRW Locker Room

Sunday, July 12

8:30 – 10:00am – On-Ice Workout and Skills Competition

10:00am – Media Availability


Sw# Player Pos DOB Notes

36 Jordan Pearce G 10/10/86 Signed to two-year entry level deal

38 Thomas McCollum G 12/7/89 1st round (30th overall) in 2008

47 Mitchell Callahan F 8/17/91 6th round (150th overall) in 2009

49 Brian Lashoff D 7/16/90 Signed to three-year entry level deal

50 Brendan Smith D 2/8/89 1st round (27th overall) in 2007

54 Gleason Fournier D 9/8/91 3rd round (90th overall) in 2009

56 Bryan Rufenach D 4/15/89 7th round (208th overall) in 2007

57 Max Nicastro D 3/2/90 3rd round (91st overall) in 2008

59 Nick Oslund F 11/15/87 7th round (191st overall) in 2006

60 Nick Jensen D 9/21/90 5th round (120th overall) in 2009

61 Landon Ferraro F 8/8/91 2nd round (32nd overall) in 2009

62 Brent Raedeke F 5/29/90 Signed to three-year entry level deal

63 Jesper Samuelsson F 6/13/88 7th round (211th overall) in 2008

64 Gustav Nyquist F 9/1/89 4th round (121st overall) in 2008

65 Julien Cayer F 7/6/89 5th round (151st overall) in 2008

67 Tomas Tatar F 12/1/90 2nd round (60th overall) in 2009

68 Andrej Nestrasil F 2/22/91 3rd round (75th overall) in 2009

71 Stephen Johnston F 2/24/90 6th round (181st overall) in 2008

In Play! magazine

RED WINGS TO WORK OUT NEW LEASE ON JOE LOUIS ARENA

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

Detroit Red Wings Youth Hockey Camp

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

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

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

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.

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

Red Bull Air Races Windsor, Ontario

Photos from Friday morning trial runs.

More photos on our facebook page

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.

http://www.inplaymagazine.com/

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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.

READ MORE

Big Red Machine

The Detroit Red Wings
The Big Red Machine

Detroit Red Wings - Chicago Black Hawks Games 3-4 Photos

For more great photos Click Here

Detroit Red Wings - Chicago Black Hawks Games Three and Four Interviews

Great Interviews with Red Wings on May 25.
Find out why Ozzie was pulled in the 3rd period of game four.
See what Kronwall says about "The Hit."
And what Zetterberg thinks about closing out the series on Wednesday.
Click Here

Practice Day Quotes Coach Mike Babcock May 21, 2009

2009 Western Conference Final -- Practice Day Quotes

Detroit Red Wings Head Coach Mike Babcock
May 21, 2009

THE MODERATOR: Questions for Mike Babcock.

Q. Hossa, Datsyuk, Holmstrom, despite not scoring, how have they made a difference?

MIKE BABCOCK: They've been excellent. I just look at the other team's got to worry about them. They compete hard. They're good defensively. You know, I think they've all had their moments. They're all proud guys and they want to score. And when you don't score, you got to make sure you're a plus, you're doing good things to help the team. They've been doing that, whether that be on the penalty kill, whether that be on the power play.


I never have a problem with how Pav competes. Tommy is doing what he can. I've been impressed with the work ethic of Hossa.


Q. Pavel Datsyuk didn't practice this morning. What is going to happen? Is Pavel going to play?

MIKE BABCOCK: Well, we sure think so. It's day to day. He got a rocket off the foot the other night. You know, you go from there and you see what happens.


Q. (No microphone.)

MIKE BABCOCK: I haven't got that far. I moved it like that for a reason, I guess. But good thing about it is I got another night's sleep, if that's still the case. We'll see what happens after the skate.


Q. When you look at the Chicago team, it seems they're so skilled. You can see the potential in them. They're obviously I don't want to say overachieving. Do you almost have to snuff out that confidence, they might be thinking they can't beat you, before they see a glimmer of hope?

MIKE BABCOCK: Overachieving, that's not what they're doing at all. They're that good. I really believe they're an excellent team. They played hard all year long. They were a good team two years ago. They've just continued to take steps. I like their players. I like their pieces.


Game 2, I thought they gave us everything we could handle. It's going to be a great crowd. When you go to Chicago, it's a great city, but it's a great crowd. It will be real exciting. They'll be jacked right up. We're going to have to be really poised and patient early and play real hard.


I thought they played harder in Game 2. We have to play harder than we did in Game 2.

Find out about Datsyuk's injury.

Western Conference Finals Game One - Red Wings Vs Chicago Black Hawks. See how many times you can spot Kid Rock in these great photos by In Play! magazine photographer Dave Anton

MORE PHOTOS

WCF Game One Press Conference Interview With MIKE BABCOCK

Press Conference Quotes-May 18, 2009--Detroit An interview with: MIKE BABCOCK

Q. After watching the video, is there anything you saw that you guys could do better defensively against a guy like Kane who had no shots yesterday?
MIKE BABCOCK: We turned the puck over way too often yesterday. Turnovers just fuel the fires of a transition team. We can't be doing that for sure, so we got to do that a lot better. We never had enough O zone time. Didn't hang onto the puck and grind like we'd like to. But we'll focus on trying to get better in that area as well. Just things when you haven't played a team in the playoffs that you try to adjust to, tidy up, that's what we have to do. Ideally our legs will be better. And our emotional engagement in the first 10 minutes wasn't good enough. Ideally we'll be better at that tomorrow.

MORE Q&A WITH BABCOCK IN OUR RED WINGS FAN FORUM

Red Wings game seven victory over the Aneheim Ducks photos

Check out our facebook fan page for great behind the scenes photos from Red Wings game seven victory over the Aneheim Ducks. Click here

May Issue of In Play! magazine availalbe NOW!

May Issue of In Play! magazine availalbe NOW!
Cover story features QB Matthew Stafford...Lions new #1 draft pick.
Features include...
Milan Dragway - Rock and ride
Denny McLain on steroids?
Fred Heumann - MSU's new baseball stadium
Lions
Tigers
Pistons
Wings
Trivia
Top Ten
Detroit Sports...yeah we got that!
May 2009 Issue
Pass the link around to all your buddies!

HALL OF FAME COACH CHUCK DALY PASSES AWAY AT 78

DETROIT PISTONS AND PALACE SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MOURN THE PASSING HALL OF FAME COACH CHUCK DALY

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The Detroit Pistons and Palace Sports and Entertainment mourn the passing of Hall of Fame Coach Chuck Daly. The 78-year-old, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in February, passed away this morning in Jupiter, Florida on May 9 with his family by his side. Funeral arrangements are pending, but services will take place next week in Jupiter/Tequesta, Florida.

“The Daly family and the entire Detroit Pistons and Palace Sports and Entertainment family is mourning the loss of Chuck Daly,” family spokesman and Pistons Vice President of Public Relations Matt Dobek said. “Chuck left a lasting impression with everyone he met both personally and professionally and his spirit will live with all of us forever.”

Daly, who coached the Detroit Pistons to NBA Championships in 1989 and 1990, was dubbed by his Pistons' players as “Daddy Rich,” for his dapper wardrobe. Daly also served as head coach of the Dream Team, the 1992 Gold-Medal winning USA Basketball Olympic Team, which has been acknowledged by many as the greatest basketball team ever assembled. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1994 and the number 2 (for those 2 NBA Championships) was retired in his honor by the Detroit Pistons in 1997.

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HOLY COW...HOLY COW...What is going on with the Tigers?

HOLY COW...HOLY COW...What is going on with the Tigers?
By Denny McLain
For In Play! Magazine

First let me say it is more refreshing and interesting that our Tigers are doing something positive for a change, catching the ball, throwing some strikes, and lots of other good things, including this Inge thing.

I know that it is early in the season and mediocre pitchers are less than mediocre in the early part of the season but Inge is hitting the ball and hitting it hard, with few exceptions. All of his hits have been hit hard, that is a good sign, not like they have been bloops all over the place. Brandon, whatever the hell you are doing don’t quit now, don’t change your underwear, eat whatever you’re eating and ride this roll for all it's worth!!

But let’s not get carried away either with thinking that they can win it all. That would be great considering that we need something for all of us to pull for at this time in our great state.

I recall after the ‘67 Riots; that is exactly what happened, the state and anyone else in the state of Michigan were pulling for "our Tigers" and who knows, maybe that is what we have today, that would be a welcome site since the past 2 years they have been almost playing triple AAA baseball.

Read Denny's blog

WINGS-JACKETS SERIES OPENS THURSDAY 16 AT JOE LOUIS ARENA

WINGS-JACKETS SERIES OPENS THURSDAY AT JOE LOUIS ARENA

Detroit, MI…The Detroit Red Wings and Columbus Blue Jackets will open their Stanley Cup Playoff Conference Quarterfinal series on Thursday, April 16 at Joe Louis Arena.

WESTERN CONFERENCE QUARTERFINAL

# Date Day Time Matchup Site TV

Game 1 April 16 Thursday 7:00 pm Columbus at Detroit Joe Louis Arena FSN, VS, TSN

Game 2 18 Saturday 7:00 pm Columbus at Detroit Joe Louis Arena FSN, TSN

Game 3 21 Tuesday 7:00 pm Detroit at Columbus Nationwide Arena FSN, TSN

Game 4 23 Thursday 7:00 pm Detroit at Columbus Nationwide Arena FSN, TSN

Game 5* 25 Saturday 7:00 pm Columbus at Detroit Joe Louis Arena FSN, VS, TSN

Game 6* 27 Monday TBA Detroit at Columbus Nationwide Arena FSN, TSN

Game 7* 29 Wednesday TBA Columbus at Detroit Joe Louis Arena FSN, VS, TSN

*-If necessary

Entire schedule

RED WINGS SIGN JOHAN FRANZEN TO ELEVEN-YEAR DEAL

RED WINGS SIGN JOHAN FRANZEN TO ELEVEN-YEAR DEAL
…Swedish Forward To Remain In Hockeytown Through 2019-20…

Detroit, MI… Detroit Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland announced today that the club has signed forward Johan Franzen to an eleven-year contract. In keeping with team policy, additional terms of the deal were not disclosed. The eleven-year pact represents the second longest deal in club history, just behind the twelve-year contract signed by teammate Henrik Zetterberg in January.

“We are thrilled that Johan will remain a member of the Detroit Red Wings” said Holland. “His production over the past year and a half, both regular season and playoffs, has been remarkable and we feel, at 29 years old, that he is just now entering the prime of his career. We look forward to having him as a part of our core unit in Detroit moving forward.”

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My Thoughts On This Year's Tigers By Denny McLain

My Thoughts On This Year's Tigers
By Denny McLain

Please someone please tell me where this "front office" of the Tigers was this past winter...again, where the hell is the pitching?

Do they not know what we know, or on the other hand, is the issue perspective players don't want what the Tigers are offering?

Did no one see what we all saw last year? Relying on the same ole, same ole guys wont get it done folks, I know one game does not make a season and I am underlining that but folks, did you see anything good in last nights season opener?

Read Denny's rant

MSU Team On A Mission? Jim Calhoun Thinks So.

MSU Team On A Mission? Jim Calhoun Thinks So.
By: Michael Niziolek

After Saturday night’s 82-73 win for Michigan State, Connecticut Head Coach Jim Calhoun gave his assessment of MSU’s recent surge.

“They played special,” Calhoun says. “They have a cause. Anytime you have a cause, it's a great, great thing to rally people around. Tommy did a wonderful job with this team.”

Izzo talks eloquently about providing some hope for Detroit and Michigan, where the economic downturn has hit harder than most cities in the country, and Calhoun gave his fellow coach and friend credit for using the situation as a rallying point.

“I think that Tommy has done a masterful job of putting the woes of the auto industry and Detroit and Michigan on his back,” Calhoun explains. “I never thought they could do what they did to Louisville. I honestly mean that.”

Connecticut played three Big Ten teams in their regular season schedule and Calhoun thought those games would be a good measuring stick for how MSU might play on Saturday. Plus, his coaching staff spent a lot of time breaking down film of the Spartans’ regular season games. Calhoun admits neither was representative of the Michigan State team that took the floor at Ford Field.

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Final Four Fallout: Raymar Morgan comes up big

Final Four Fallout: Raymar Morgan Comes Up Big!
By: Michael Niziolek

Raymar Morgan's up and down season continued into this year's NCAA tournament, the junior forward was great in the opening round against Robert Morris College scoring 16 points on 50% shooting and five rebounds, but in the next three games he disappeared.

“It’s been a miserable month for him,” Izzo says. “Nobody is dodging that bullet. It’s been hard on him, hard on me, hard on us.”

Against USC, Kansas and Louisville he scored a combined seven points, picking up only three rebounds. His most notable play in the three Midwest regional games was suffering a broken nose against Kansas from his teammate Delvon Roe.

But his slump didn't stop his teammates from having faith in him….

And he rewarded them big time - he had the biggest post-season game of his career against Connecticut.

"I said Raymar was going to be the x-factor two days ago and he proved to be," Goran Suton says.

Morgan scored 18 points, had nine rebounds and tied an NCAA team record with five steals. He played 30 minutes on Saturday, the most he's played since MSU's game against Penn State in the middle of January.

For Suton though, Morgan's performance went beyond the box score…

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CHECK OUT OUR PHOTO GALLERY FROM THE NCAA FINAL FOUR PRESS CONFERENCE

IVERSON DONE FOR THE SEASON!

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Detroit Pistons President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars announced today that guard Allen Iverson will miss the remainder of the season. The all-star guard missed 16 games between February 27 and March 28 after exiting a game at New Orleans with a sore back on February 25.

“After talking with Allen and our medical staff, we feel that resting Allen for the remainder of the season is the best course of action at this time,” said Dumars. “While he has played in our last three games, he is still feeling some discomfort and getting him physically ready to compete at the level he is accustomed to playing this late in the season does not seem possible at this point.”

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RED WINGS CAPTURE EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE CENTRAL DIVISION TITLE

RED WINGS CAPTURE EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE CENTRAL DIVISION TITLE

Detroit, MI… The Detroit Red Wings have clinched the 2008-09 Central Division title.

Detroit has now captured eight consecutive Central Division crowns dating back to the 2000-01 season. The Red Wings have also claimed 12 of the last 15. Two times during that span in which they failed to win the division, the Red Wings went on to win the Stanley Cup (1996-97 and 1997-98).

Detroit (49-18-9, 107 points) has six games remaining in the 2008-09 regular season. The Chicago Blackhawks (40-23-11, 91 points), currently in second place in the Central, have eight games remaining. Detroit holds the edge over Chicago in a tie-break situation (wins). All five teams in the Central Division currently hold one of the eight playoff spots in the Western Conference.

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TIGERS ACQUIRE JOSH ANDERSON FROM ATLANTA BRAVES

TIGERS ACQUIRE JOSH ANDERSON FROM ATLANTA BRAVES

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has acquired outfielder Josh Anderson from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for righthanded pitcher Rudy Darrow.

Anderson saw action with the Braves and Triple A Richmond during the 2008 season. In 40 games with the Braves, he batted .294 (40x136) with seven doubles, a triple, three home runs, 12 RBI and 10 stolen bases. Anderson hit .314 (155x494) with 25 doubles, four triples, four home runs, 40 RBI and 42 stolen bases in 121 games with Richmond.

“Josh is a young outfielder that has hit well at each level he has played,” Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. “He has above-average speed that gives us a dimension on our club that we presently do not have.”

A fourth-round selection by the Houston Astros in the 2003 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft, Anderson has hit .315 (64x203) with 10 doubles, a triple, three home runs, 23 RBI and 11 stolen bases in 61 games at the major league level.

Darrow saw action with both Double A Erie and Single A West Michigan in the Tigers organization during the 2008 season. He finished 1-1 with a 2.63 ERA (13.2IP/4ER) in 14 outings with Erie, while he went 4-2 with a 1.85 ERA (48.2IP/10ER) in 33 appearances with West Michigan.

Darrow’s contract will be assigned to Double A Mississippi in the Braves organization.

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OHL Semi-Finals Spitfires vs Whalers Schedule

Windsor Spitfires to Face Plymouth Whalers in the Second Round of the 2009 OHL Playoffs(Windsor) The Ontario Hockey League today announced the dates for the second round matchups of the 2009 OHL Playoffs in the Western Conference. The Windsor Spitfires will take on the Plymouth Whalers in one half of the Western Conference Semi-Finals.

The schedule for all games in the series is as follows.

In Play! magazine April 2009 Issue

In Play! magazine April 2009 Issue
Link to free Digital Issue

Pistons Decide on Rotation

By Steve St. Pierre

As expected, the Pistons brought back forward
Antonio McDyess in early Dec. after he cleared
waivers from the Denver Nuggets. Since then,
the coaching staff has used a number of different
starting lineups but appear to have finally settled
on one.

Early this season when the Pistons traded former
point guard and team captain Chauncey Billups
to the Nuggets for superstar guard Allen
Iverson, they knew it was going to be an adjustment
for everybody. After a handful of games,
the team determined that Iverson is better off
playing the off-guard position, paving the way for
second-year guard Rodney Stuckey to take over at
the point.

“I think (Stuckey) helps a lot,” Iverson says.
“The system runs a little smoother with him running
the point because that’s his natural position.
I get a chance to go back to play the two-guard
and get a chance to run up and down the court.”

Read more

MSU Wants Final Four!

By Mike Niziolek

The Michigan State Spartans are going to the
Sweet Sixteen after a 74-69 win over tenth seed
USC, while the Michigan Wolverines are going
home after a loss tosecond seeded Oklahoma.

It was Michigan’s first tournament appearance
in a decade and the team’s first win since beating
Davidson in 1998. The loss does nothing
to dampen the resurgence they’ve had in Head
Coach John Beiliein’s second season.

Getting to the big dance was along-shot to start
the season and now they go back to Ann Arbor
with a first round win under their belt (62-59 victory
over Clemson). Manny Harris and DeShawn
Sims should both be back, meaning the Wolverines
could be primed for a run to the sweet sixteen
next year.

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Izzo...not just a “Good tournament coach”

Izzo...not just a “Good tournament coach”
By Drew Lane

Michigan has been blessed with more than its share of great professional and collegiate coaches. Bo Schembechler, Sparky Anderson, Scotty Bowman and Chuck Daly were outstanding people who won big for their programs. All of them struggled at certain points as well. Their strategies and styles were questioned. The passage of time makes the “downs” seem rather silly. All of them would probably say it just goes with the territory. Sometimes, it goes too far.

Michigan State basketball coach, Tom Izzo, has seen similar “ups and downs.” Just a couple of years ago, the debate began to stir up as to whether MSU basketball was an elite, top 10 program … or just another school typically found in the top 25. I thought the debate was ridiculous and offensive at the time. It looks even more foolish now.

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Spitfires’ Hall named Boston Pizza OHL Player of the Week

Spitfires’ Hall named Boston Pizza OHL Player of the Week
Monday March 23, 2009

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that forward Taylor Hall of the Windsor Spitfires is the Boston Pizza OHL Player of the Week for the week ending March 22. Hall scored five goals with four assists for nine points in three games with a plus-minus rating of plus-4.

Hall and the Spitfires opened up their first round playoff series with the Owen Sound Attack Wednesday night in Windsor with a 7-4 win. Hall assisted on two goals by Rob Kwiet including the game-winner and later added an empty net goal to complete his three-point game. On Friday night on the road in game two, Hall scored two goals including one on the power play late in the second period and the game-winner in the first minute of the third period. He also tallied an assist on the insurance marker and was named second star of the game in the 7-5 win over the Attack. The series shifted back to Windsor for game three on Sunday and Hall led the way offensively with two goals and one assist as first star of the 6-1 win over the Attack. The Spitfires lead the first round series 3-0.

Link to article

LIONS TO HOST PACKERS IN 70TH THANKSGIVING CLASSIC

LIONS TO HOST PACKERS IN 70TH THANKSGIVING CLASSIC

Detroit and Green Bay to play on Thanksgiving for 19th time

Allen Park, Mich. – The Detroit Lions’ 70th Thanksgiving Day Classic will feature the Lions hosting long-time rival Green Bay Thursday, November 26 at 12:30 p.m. ET. The Lions’ Thanksgiving Day game at Ford Field will be aired live nationally on FOX.

This year’s Lions-Packers game on Thanksgiving Day will renew a holiday rivalry that dates back to 1951. This year’s game marks the 19th time the Lions have battled the Packers on Thanksgiving, with Detroit holding an 11-6-1 (.647) advantage. The Lions have played Green Bay more than any other opponent in the Thanksgiving Day series.

Link to article

Knock It Off Martha Reeves!

Knock It Off Martha Reeves!
By Drew Lane

If you guessed from the title that this little rant might be about someone on Detroit’s City Council … you would then have a less than 50% chance of guessing who this would be about. I’ll narrow it down. It involves Jay Leno’s free gig at the Palace for unemployed Michiganders.

In the history of charitable events (which covers a lot of ground), I’m not aware of anyone ever complaining that the location of a free concert just wasn’t convenient enough to attend.

You’re number one, Martha Reeves!

What frosts my (expletive) even more is that Reeves used her “celebrity” to call Jay Leno and complain for not doing his free show in Detroit proper. According to Reeves, Jay said he will try to come back later in the year to do a show in Detroit. The way this was reported actually suggested Reeves had a point! Sadly, this forces me to take aim at a very generous person caught in the middle.

Link to article

DETROIT PISTONS MOURN THE PASSING OF OWNER WILLIAM DAVIDSON

The Detroit Pistons and Palace Sports and Entertainment mourn the passing of pioneer owner William Davidson.

The 86-year-old passed away at home on March 13, 2009 with his family by his side.

“The entire Palace family is mourning the loss of Mr. Davidson,” said Tom Wilson, President of Palace Sports and Entertainment and the Pistons. “He was truly a pioneer in so many ways. His legacy will live forever.”

Mr. Davidson owned the Pistons since 1974 and won three NBA Championships (1989, 1990, 2004), three WNBA Championships (2004, 2006, 2008) and one NHL Championship (2004). He became the first owner in sports history to win championships in three different professional sports leagues during the 2003-04 calendar year (NBA – Detroit Pistons, NHL – Tampa Bay Lightning and WNBA – Detroit Shock). In September 2008, Davidson’s contributions to the game of basketball were honored when he was officially enshrined into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

LINK TO ARTICLE

24 Hour Hockey Game for the Assist Program

24 Hour Hockey Game for the Assist Program
On March 21, The Assist Program will be hosting a 24-hour hockey game at South Windsor Arena to raise money for the ASSIST program. This promises to be a fun family-oriented event for anyone who wants to help others enjoy the great game of hockey.

The format for the game is simple. Each team will face off for one hour in a refereed three-on-three game. Players will be provided with bibs upon their arrival. Scores will be kept for each game as well as a final tally for each side throughout the 24-hour period.

Link to details

RED WINGS MOURN THE PASSING OF COLLEEN HOWE

Detroit, MI…The Detroit Red Wings mourn the passing of Colleen Howe, Mrs. Hockey, wife of Red Wings great, Gordie Howe. Colleen passed today at the Howe’s home in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan following a courageous battle with Pick’s disease, an incurable neurological form of dementia. She was 76.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Gordie, Mark, Marty, Cathy, Murray and the entire Howe family,” said Red Wings owners Mike and Marian Ilitch. “Colleen was a pioneer hockey wife and hockey mom and devoted her entire life to the betterment of the game. She will be sincerely missed by us and all who knew her.”

Funeral arrangements are to be announced.

More on the story

Engelage Chases Most Wins in a Season

Photo by Jack Rosenberg

Engelage Chases Most Wins in a Season

March 6, 2009
Andrew Engelage of the Windsor Spitfires is one win away from tying the single season record for most wins by a goaltender.

The current record of 45 was set by Steve Mason in the 2006-07 season with the London Knights. On March 5, in a win over Sault Ste. Marie, Engelage won game number 44 on the season which ties Adam Dennis who accomplished the same mark in 2005-06 with the London Knights.

Engelage, a 20-year-old from Oshawa, ON, has an outstanding record of 44-4-0-1 this season with five shutouts. The Spitfires have five games remaining in the regular season.

LIONS REACT TO COAST GUARD CALLING OFF SEARCH FOR NFL'ERS

DETROIT LIONS REACTION TO NEWS THAT COAST GUARD WILL CEASE SEARCH AND RESCUE EFFORTS FOR COREY SMITH, WILL BLEAKLEY AND MARQUIS COOPER

"Today's news is a sobering reminder about how truly precious and fragile life can be. We will continue to pray for a miracle, though we fully understand and respect the decision of the Coast Guard.

"We were thrilled yesterday with the news of Nick's rescue, and it gave all of us hope that Corey, Will and Marquis would also be found alive.

"While we still have that hope, we have begun to cope with the grim reality of this sad and tragic situation.

Link to article

Granderson Announces Scoring For Schools Initiative

Curtis Granderson Announces Scoring For Schools Initiative To Raise Money For Inner City Schools

Detroit, Mich. – Detroit Tigers star center fielder Curtis Granderson has announced a new fundraising initiative for his Grand Kids Foundation called Scoring For Schools, which will help raise money for Michigan’s inner city public schools.

Individuals or companies will be able to donate money for every run Granderson scores during the 2009 regular season and playoffs. Those donating can spend as little as one cent for every run Granderson scores. Registration information can be found online at www.CurtisGranderson.com or www.GrandKidsFoundation.org.

“I am calling on the entire state of Michigan to get involved with this initiative,” Granderson said. “I always tell people that every dollar can make a difference, and this is a chance to prove that. I know

the economy is tough, especially in Michigan, but if even just half of the state donated a penny for every run I score, imagine the difference we could make in our state’s schools and educational system. It’s extra incentive for me to go out there and help the Tigers win games this year.”

Link to article

STATEMENT FROM THE DETROIT LIONS

“We are closely monitoring the Coast Guard reports involving a missing fishing boat off the Gulf Coast of Florida.

“We have been informed by the Coast Guard that one of the passengers is Corey Smith, who played for the Lions the past three seasons.

“We will continue to gather more information, while maintaining constant communication with the Coast Guard and local Florida authorities.

“First and foremost, however, is that our thoughts and prayers are with all the passengers, their families and all those involved in the search efforts.

“We will provide further updates when more information becomes available.”

As a courtesy, we are also providing the following press release that was distributed by the United States Coast Guard earlier today.

CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Coast Guard continues its search for four missing boaters about 50 miles west of Clearwater Pass Sunday.

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg, Fla., received a call at about 1: 30 a.m., Sunday, reporting that four friends, Victor "Marquis" Cooper, Nick Skyler, Corey Smith and William Bleakley did not return from their fishing trip as expected. The four boaters left at about 6:30 a.m., Saturday, from the Seminole Boat Ramp in Clearwater Pass, in a 21-foot center console boat.

A Coast Guard 47-foot motor-life boat crew from Station Sand Key, Fla., HH-60 Jayhawk helicopter and C-130 Hercules fixed-wing aircrews from Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, and the Coast Guard Cutter Crocodile are searching a 750-square mile area west of Clearwater Pass for the missing boaters. An Urgent Mariner Information Broadcast (UMIB) is also being transmitted on marine VHF radio channel 16.

If anyone has any information regarding this case they are asked to call Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg at or by marine VHF radio channel 16.

2009 OHL Playoff Format

The 2008-09 Ontario Hockey League regular season schedule wraps up on Sunday March 15, 2009. All teams have between 8-10 games remaining heading into the final three weeks of the regular season schedule.

OHL Playoff Format
The top eight teams in each conference qualify for the OHL playoffs with the division leaders ranked one-two in each Conference.

In the first round of the playoffs, first place plays eighth, second plays seventh, third plays sixth and fourth plays fifth in each conference.

Teams are re-seeded within their conference after each round and the division winners are always ranked 1-2 within the conference as long as they progress. The champions from each conference play in the OHL Championship Series for the J. Ross Robertson Cup.

The OHL Playoffs are scheduled to begin on the Thursday following the conclusion of the regular season. The first round series must be completed within 13 days; the second round series also have 13 days to finish while the Conference Championships are 14 days in length. The OHL Championship Series is also 14 days in length.

Tie break info available here

Windsor Spitfires Win Historic Game

With tonights win over the Erie Otters by a final count of 8-2 tonight at the WFCU Centre the Windsor Spitfires achieved the following milestones:

- established a team record by winning 51 games, surpassing the 50 win total set by the 1987-88 Windsor Compuware Spitfires

- improved on their current team record 101 points with tonight’s win as the total now stands at 103 points

- clinched the Western Conference and OHL Regular Season Championship (Hamilton Spectator Trophy) as a result of tonight’s win and the London Knights 5-1 loss to the Brampton Battalion

Link to OHL Fan Forum

Market Research Questionaire

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Wings To Open 09/10 Season in Stockholm, Sweden.

FOUR NHL TEAMS TO OPEN THE 2009-10 REGULAR SEASON IN EUROPE OCT. 2-3

“NHL Premiere 2009” Features Detroit Red Wings And St. Louis Blues Playing Two Games In Stockholm; Chicago Blackhawks And Florida Panthers Playing Twice In Helsinki
Third Consecutive Year NHL Starts Regular Season Overseas

New York/Toronto/Stockholm/Helsinki (February 19, 2008) – The National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA), in cooperation with Live Nation Sweden, IMG Sweden and Harry Harkimo/Jokerit HC Oy in Finland, announced today that the Detroit Red Wings, St. Louis Blues, Chicago Blackhawks and Florida Panthers will open the 2009-2010 NHL regular season in Europe. The Blackhawks and Panthers will play home-and-home games Friday, Oct. 2, and Saturday, Oct. 3, in Helsinki, Finland, at Hartwall Areena. On those same dates, the Red Wings and Blues will play a home-and-home series at Ericsson Globe Arena in Stockholm, Sweden. Finland and Sweden are the top ranked countries in terms of overseas visitors to NHL.com.

LINK TO ARTICLE

BRIGHT SPOT ON THE 2009 LIONS TEAM

LIONS RE-SIGN K JASON HANSON AND G STEPHEN PETERMAN

Allen Park, Mich. - The Detroit Lions announced today that they have re-signed veteran K Jason Hanson to a four-year deal and G Stephen Peterman to a five-year deal. Both Hanson and Peterman were set to become unrestricted free agents on February 27. Additional contract terms were not disclosed.

Hanson (6-0, 190) signs a multi-year deal with the Lions to extend his 17-year career with the organization. As the longest-tenured player on the roster, the veteran kicker holds franchise records in points (1,747), field goals (406), extra points (529) and games played (271), and has handled both field goals and kickoffs in each of his 17 seasons.

Named to the Lions 75th Season All-Time Team last year, Hanson had a remarkable 2008 season as he lead the league with eight 50+-yard field goals to become the first player in NFL history to go eight-for-eight on 50+-yard field goals in a single season. His eight 50+-yarders (53, 51, 54, 54, 54, 56, 53 and 51 yards) also set a career and franchise single-season high. At Indianapolis (12/14), he set an NFL record by connecting on his 41st-career 50-yard field goal.

In Week 11 Hanson connected on two field goals of 38 and 40 yards respectively vs. Tampa Bay (11/23) and became only the sixth player in NFL history to connect on 400 career field goals. Hanson finished the season 21-of-22 (.955) on field goal attempts which ranked first in the NFL in field goal percentage.

LINK TO ARTICLE

PISTONS ACQUIRE CONDITIONAL 2013 SECOND ROUND DRAFT PICK FROM THE LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS IN EXCHANGE FOR ALEX ACKER AND 2011 SECOND ROUND DRAFT PICK

PISTONS ACQUIRE CONDITIONAL 2013 SECOND ROUND DRAFT PICK FROM THE LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS IN EXCHANGE FOR ALEX ACKER AND 2011 SECOND ROUND DRAFT PICK

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Detroit Pistons President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars announced today that the club has acquired a conditional second round draft pick in the 2013 NBA Draft from the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for guard Alex Acker and its 2011 second round draft pick.

Acker, 26, appeared in six games with the Pistons this season averaging 1.5 points and 0.3 rebounds in 3.3 minutes per game. Drafted in the second round (#60 overall) in the 2005 NBA Draft, Acker played in five games during the 2005-06 campaign averaging 1.8 points and 1.0 rebounds in 7.0 minutes per game. He scored a career-high four points in a career-high 18 minutes at Milwaukee (4/17/06) that season. He spent the 2007-08 season overseas with FC Barcelona averaging 6.7 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 30 games.

Link to Pistons Fan Forum

In Play! Magazine and the Detroit Pistons have teamed up to bring you a special deal on tickets for select upcoming games. Click here.

QUICK, HOSSA AND GREEN NAMED NHL 'THREE STARS' OF THE WEEK

QUICK, HOSSA AND GREEN NAMED NHL 'THREE STARS' OF THE WEEKNEW YORK

(Feb. 9, 2009) -- Los Angeles Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick, Detroit Red Wings right wing Marian Hossa and Washington Capitals defenseman Mike Green have been named the NHL's 'Three Stars' for the week ending Feb. 8.

SECOND STAR -- MARIAN HOSSA, RW, DETROIT RED WINGSHossa shared the NHL scoring lead last week with seven points (six goals, one assist), helping the Red Wings (35-11-7, 77 points) post four consecutive victories and move within two points of the first-place San Jose Sharks in the Western Conference standings. He notched a pair of goals in a 4-3 shootout victory over the St. Louis Blues Feb. 2, scored two more in a 5-4 win over the Phoenix Coyotes Feb. 4 and tallied the game-winning goal and one assist in an 8-3 win over the Edmonton Oilers Feb. 7. Hossa closed the week by reaching the 30-goal mark for the seventh time in the past eight seasons, scoring a key third-period insurance goal in a 3-0 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins Feb. 8.

Link to fan forum

OHL to Present Annual Award in Honour of Mickey Renaud

OHL to Present Annual Award in Honour of Mickey Renaud

Windsor, ON - The Ontario Hockey League and Windsor Spitfires today announced in a press conference prior to the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic that a new league award will be presented annually in honour of Mickey Renaud.

The “Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy” will be presented each season to the OHL team captain that best exemplifies the character and commitment that Renaud displayed during his career with the Spitfires. The winner will be one of the 20 OHL member team captains and will be selected by a special media selection committee.

“The Ontario Hockey League is very proud to take this opportunity to honour the memory of a young man that meant a great deal to the league, the Spitfires and his community,” said OHL Commissioner David Branch. “Mickey set a very high standard for the commitment, character and community spirit that is necessary for a team captain and provides a great example for his peers.”

Link to article

PISTONS AND 97.1 FM THE TICKET SIGN BROADCAST AGREEMENT

PISTONS AND 97.1 FM THE TICKET SIGN BROADCAST AGREEMENT

Detroit’s Sports Station To Serve As Flagship Station For Club Beginning With 2009-10 Season

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The Detroit Pistons announced today that the club has agreed to a multi-year broadcast agreement with 97.1 FM The Ticket (WXYT) starting with the 2009-10 NBA season. Dan Hauser, Executive Vice President of the Detroit Pistons, and Debbie Kenyon, Senior Vice President/Market Manager of 97.1 FM The Ticket made the joint announcement. The club’s radio station network throughout the state of Michigan will remain unchanged.

“We are extremely excited about our new radio partnership with 97.1 FM The Ticket starting with the 2009-10 season,” said Hauser. “Their leadership position in the sports radio market as well as their strong FM signal will make Pistons basketball easily accessible for all Pistons fans in the metro Detroit area. At the same time we want to extend our appreciation to WDFN and their employees for their support of the Pistons over the past six years.”

Link to article

Red Bull Air Races Returns...To WIndsor This Time!

Red Bull Air Races Returns...To WIndsor This Time!

2009 RED BULL AIR RACE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP READY FOR TAKE OFF
World’s fastest motorsport announces pilots, locations and new race format
for 2009

Salzburg, Austria – February 3, 2009 – Fifteen of the world’s top race
pilots, including four rookies from four corners of the globe, will compete
in the Red Bull Air Race World Championship in 2009, which will touch down
in six spectacular locations beginning with the traditional season opener
in Abu Dhabi on April 17 and 18.

The world’s most exciting motorsport will then move to North America for
races in San Diego, USA and Windsor in Ontario, Canada, before returning
back across the Atlantic to Europe for stops in Budapest, Porto and
Barcelona, marking a much-anticipated return to the enchanting Spanish city
on the Mediterranean.


2009 Red Bull Air Race World Championship – RACE CALENDAR

Abu Dhabi (UAE) April 17 & 18
San Diego (USA) May 9 & 10
Windsor, Ontario (Canada) June 13 & 14
Budapest (Hungary) August 19 & 20
Porto (Portugal) September 12 & 13
Barcelona (Spain) October 3 & 4

Link for more information on this great story

Yzerman Graves Honourary Captains For 2009 OHL All-Star Game

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.