WHL: Profile: Silvertips Goalie Thomas Heemskerk

                                                      (Photo: Frank Deines III/Everett Silvertips)


He's been a stalwart goaltender for theEverett Silvertips since they acquired him from the Kootenay Ice in December 2008. Spend time chatting with Thomas Heemskerk, though, and you'll notice that he's about as laid back in person as he is intense in net, and pretty mature for someone who doesn't turn 20 until April.

But get to know a little about Thomas, and you'll start to piece together what makes this young man tick. For one, he doesn't have a hockey background. He also had a bit of trouble skating when he was younger. But when a skating instructor stuck him in net out of frustration, not only did Thomas take it in stride, he found he actually liked it. What's more, he became quite GOOD at it.

He honed his talent with a couple of strong seasons for the Silvertips; and that talent was recognized by the San Jose Sharks, who invited Thomas to training camp over the summer. They were so impressed with his workouts and preseason play (he registered 2 wins against the Anaheim Ducks), they signed him to an entry-level contract.

Since returning to Everett, Thomas has helpd the 'Tips win two games (against theVancouver Giants) and lost one (against the Portland Winterhawks). Read on to learn more about his amazing summer, what he learned from San Jose Sharksgoaltender Evgeni Nabokov, his introduction to hockey, and the lessons he's learning from new Head Coach Craig Hartsburg, on and off the ice.

KING 5: How did the invitation from the Sharks come about?
TH: I was training and had contact with my agent all summer. We were kind of hoping on something and he kept saying to hang in there and wait and finally it did come.

KING 5: What did you think when you learned you were being invited down to San Jose?
TH: I was so excited. I didn't have any expectations; just to go there and see what it's like, more than anything - just to compare myself.

KING 5: When you got down there, what was the first thing you noticed about being at an NHL camp?
TH: The amount of employees there were. I was trying to learn everybody's name. Everybody was real nice an introduced themselves but it was hard to remember all the names.

KING 5: What do you think was the biggest success of your time at camp?
TH: I think, throughout, I just tried to work as hard as I could all the time, show them my work ethic and it seemed to really come in during the games. They went better than I probably could have hoped.

KING 5: How has spending this time at camp with so many quality guys helped you prepare for your season here in Everett?
TH: For sure, it's helped a lot. It was kind of nice going (to San Jose) and being the young one again and looking up towards the older guys and realizing just how much you do look up to them. I'm trying to take that back with me now and make sure that I do the same (for our younger guys) this year.

KING 5: Did you spend a lot of time with (San Jose goaltender) Evgeni Nabokov?
TH: We had a little bit of time together, stretching. For main camp, we were actually on the same team so we played together and we stretched together. We got to talk quite a bit. It was really nice.

KING 5: Did he offer you any good advice?
TH: We kind of kept it light - not so much about hockey. He's a pretty funny guy. He doesn't take it too seriously but still works hard. It was good to see how much fun he still has.

KING 5: Going back to your younger days, how did you decide you wanted to become a goalie?
TH: Nobody in my family played hockey or really skated. My parents own a flower nursery and one of the workers played hockey. I think that's kind of how I got into it. From there, it snowballed. He took me out skating and I went for skating lessons. That didn't go so well. I had a problem with being pigeon toed when I was younger and the skating instructor started to put me in net because he was getting a little frustrated that I was always at the back of the line and I couldn't do anything. It kind of just stuck from there on.

KING 5: When did you decide you really enjoyed it and that's what you wanted to do- and pursue it?
TH: I always liked it when I was young. During minor hockey, you got to switch in and out and I always wanted to be in the net, so it really started pretty young, from the start, I'd say.

KING 5: How old were you when you first started skating?
TH: I think I must have been 7 when I started skating and 8 when I first started playing hockey.

KING 5: Where did you play your bantams?
TH: I played Bantam in Chilliwack.

KING 5: Who were your favorite players growing up?
TH: Growing up, nobody really in my family watched a lot of hockey but I always liked Patrick Roy. I had every Don Cherry movie and I would memorize all the words. I actually just liked watching everyone. I didn't really have a favorite team. I just loved watching everything.

KING 5: Is there anybody that you particularly follow or look up to now?
TH: I like the way (Marc-Andre) Fleury (Pittsburgh Penguins) and (Cam) Ward(Carolina Hurricanes) play because I kind of like to think that they went the same way, especially Ward, who played in the WHL. I like the way he plays, too. (NOTE: Cam Ward played junior hockey with the Red Deer Rebels/WHL between 2000-2004)

KING 5: How would you describe your style?
TH: I like to think that technically, I'm pretty sound but I can definitely come out of the box and make some strange saves once in a while; definitely in practice and now I can kind of see it following into games. I wouldn't say it's completely butterfly. I like to make some different kinds of saves once in a while. This summer and last summer too, I worked with goalie coaches and I found that it wasn't just learning technique anymore. It was visual contact, reading shots and once I got the hang of it, some of the saves you make seem really easy. It's hard to explain but you don't even think about what you're doing and that's why sometimes it's not the perfect technique but you just stop it.

KING 5: It seems like once you get in tune to it, it's almost like a reflex.
TH: Yeah, you kind of forget everything you've learned and hope that it just comes naturally during the game, hope that you're making the reads right and save selection is close.

KING 5: What "away" arena do you enjoy playing at?
TH: I like going back to Moose Jaw. I know a lot of people don't like it, but it's kind of neat playing in such an old arena. It's a different feeling, for sure.
KING 5: Is that the place they call The Barn?
TH: Yes, that's The Barn, with the roof that dips down into the ice. It's pretty unique.

KING 5: Who's your favorite opponent? Who do you think you play your best against?
TH: I think I've done pretty well against Vancouver for the past year and a half. When I get a lot of shots, I enjoy that. I enjoy having busy nights. I kind of rise up to (the occasion) when there's a lot of shots.

KING 5: Do you have a pre-game ritual/meal?
TH: I always eat spaghetti before, nap for two hours, eat and then come to the rink the same time. I kind of stick to the same routine, tape my stick, stuff like that. I like to be early and take it easy and slow and work into it; get ready for the game mentally then warm up physically and then have warm ups. I don't think it's too strange.

KING 5: I've heard that some people have some pretty strange things that they have to do.
TH: I try not to let it get too crazy but sometimes I find myself trying to remember what I did ten days ago when we won, so (laughs). It's a mental thing.

KING 5: What kind of music do you listen to, to help you get pumped up for a game?
TH: I like the newer stuff. I don't put my iPod on the stereo. Usually, other players deal with that, as long as it's something upbeat. Sometimes, some guys in the room want to play some country but that doesn't do it for me before games.

KING 5: You've been with Everett for a year and a half. What do you like best about being a part of this organization?
TH: Every day I come and look forward to it. Even practice is a good time; it's a good atmosphere here. And when it comes to games it's just next to none. The fans are just incredible. The way everything's run, so smooth, you have no excuse but to play the best that you can.

KING 5: How is it adjusting to Coach Hartsburg and a new coaching style?
TH: It's been different, very high-paced. He doesn't back down to anything. He's not afraid to speak the truth, which I think is a good thing for this team. It's a lot different from last year and it's going to pay off. The guys are starting to see that he definitely knows what he's doing; from practice to days off. Everyone should appreciate where he's been and how much he's been through. He's coached the best players in the world and he even played against them.

KING 5: Do you think he's helped you guys become more focused as a team?
TH: Yes. He definitely wants us to be more professional. Even though some guys are 16, everyone's gotta act professional. If a 16 year old's gotta act 20, then that's what it's got to take. Everyone enjoys it, but to be treated professionally, you've gotta act it. That's what he's definitely trying to get across to us.

After I interviewed Thomas, I found an article in the Chilliwack Progressnewspaper that really opened my eyes to just how hard he has worked to make it in the WHL, much less secure an NHL tryout and contract. Reporter Eric Welshcaught up with Thomas as he worked out in his hometown, waiting for a camp invitation and our easygoing goalie opened up about the frustrations he faced with his first WHL team, the Kootenay Ice, the bold move he made to try to keep his career from bombing, and the hopes he has for this season with Everett. To read the article, click here.

Silvertips Goalie Heemskerk Signs with San Jose

                                           Photo Courtesy: San Jose Sharks

Congratulations go out to Everett Silvertips goaltender Thomas Heemskerk, who just signed an entry level contract with the San Jose Sharks. By all accounts, Thomas had an outstanding training camp with the Sharks last month. According to a news release posted at San Jose's website, he posted a 2-0 record along with a 1.50 goals-against average and a .948 save percentage. Those two wins came against the Anaheim Ducks.

According to friends who attended Sharks training camp in San Jose, Thomas was stellar in net, and they can't wait to see him develop his chops and don the teal and white for which they are so passionate.

In a news release posted at the Sharks' website, San Jose's Executive Vice President/General Manager Doug Wilson said, "Thomas played very well during this year's rookie tournament and made a big impression on our staff. Doug Soetaert and Craig Hartsburg have done a tremendous job working with Thomas and we look forward to him continuing his development with our organization."
A news release from the Silvertips quotes Thomas as saying, "It's something that I've been thinking about since I was little kid, and for it to come true is incredible. It's very exciting, but I'm more focused on putting together a strong season in Everett."


Thomas already has two victories under his belt for Everett, both coming against the Vancouver Giants, including an exciting home opener Friday night that ended in a shootout. The 19 year old Chilliwack, BC native began his WHL career with theKootenay Ice before being traded to the Silvertips in December 2008.

Silvertips Vice President/General Manager Doug Soetaert is very happy with the way Thomas has performed since joining the team. In the news release, he is quoted as saying, ""Thomas has worked extremely hard since we acquired him last year to put himself in position to earn this contract."

Thomas is the third Silvertip this year to sign an NHL contract this year. ForwardKellan Tochkin became the youngest Everett player to ink a deal. The 18 year old signed a three year contract with the Vancouver Canucks. Defenseman Taylor Ellington also signed with the Canucks and should see a lot of action this season as part of the team's AHL affiliate, Manitoba Moose.

You can catch Thomas Heemskerk and the rest of the Silvertips in action next Wednesday, October 7th, when they welcome a strong Portland Winterhawks team to Comcast Arena. The game starts at 7:05. You can find more information about the Silvertips by clicking here.

                                         Photo Courtesy: San Jose Sharks

Silvertips lose crucial Game 4 to Tri City, 4-1

The Everett Silvertips find themselves in a very precarious position this morning. Like their brethren down I-5, the Seattle Thunderbirds, the 'Tips are down 3 games to 1 in their playoff series against the Tri City Americans. Tonight, they face the daunting task of trying to win on Tri City's home ice to force a Game 6 back at Comcast Arena.

Tri City, on the other hand, has a more pressing matter to deal with. Rookie Spencer Asuchak hit the boards hard in the final minutes of the game- and after lying on the ice for a frightening ten minutes, was carted off on a stretcher, loaded into an ambulance and taken to the hospital for evaluation. We still don't know the extent of his injuries. I will post an update as soon as I find out.

Now, back to the game. It started out well enough. From my vantage point right behind Everett's bench, I could see the determination on the Silvertips' faces and they played with determination as well. Maybe they started out with a little too much. Captain Zack Dailey was called for checking from behind about 1:30 into the first period. There was a mad scrum around Everett's net two minutes later, and the puck hovered dangerously close to Silvertips' goalie Thomas Heemskerk's feet and no one seemed to notice it for several long seconds. Then an Everett stick swept the puck out of danger.

There were several Tri City penalties in succession but Everett could not capitalize on the power play until the ten minute mark. Daniel Bartek deflected a hard shot by Tyler Ellington right past Tri City goalie Chet Pickard to put the Silvertips up 1-0. Chris de la Lande also assisted in the goal.

The rest of the first period featured a lot of action at Everett's end of the ice. Thomas Heemskerk made a number of good saves, including one at 16:43 as he fell on the puck. Jesse Burt, Zack Dailey and Tyler Maxwell delivered some monster hits, along with d-men Graham Potuer and Tyler Ellington. In the final minute of the first period, Daniel Bartek made a great run at Tri City's net, but Chet Pickard blocked him. Dan Iwanski slapped two hard shots at goal with 20 seconds on the clock, but Pickard turned those away, too. The first period ended with Everett on top 1-0.

The second period had barely gotten under way when Tri City found itself in penalty trouble. Taylor Procyshen was called for checking from behind at 1:04. A minute and a half later, teammate Riley McIntosh went to the box for tripping. The Silvertips' two man advantage didn't last long, though, as Tyler Maxwell was called for goaltender interference at the 3 minute mark.

It took less than a minute after that for Tri City to finally get on the board, albeit in a controversial way. A flurry of activity around Everett's goal seemed to knock the net slightly off its moorings. At the same time, another player ended up going INTO the net with the puck. The referees called for an instant replay. (NOTE: Instant replay is not used during regular season WHL games, but is being used during the playoffs) Guess what? It counted! Johnny Lazo got credit for the goal. Mitch Fadden and Lane Werbowski were credited with assists. Comcast Arena erupted into a chorus of 'BOO's at this point; the crowd, definitely not happy with the call.

Everett tried a few good runs at Tri City's net, urged on by the thousands of cowbells in the arena. But the 'Tips ran into penalty trouble again. Tyler Maxwell went to the box for tripping at 5:53. Zack Dailey was called for interference at 7:45. Thomas Heemskerk really stepped up, blocking shot after shot after shot. In fact, my notes read: "good stop Heemskerk @ 7:25", "good catch by Heemskerk @ 8:50", "good set-up by TC, better stop by Heemskerk @ 9:29".

Just after the halfway mark of the second period, Tri City's Jarrett Toll found a second home in the penalty box. At 11:43, he was called for high sticking. He had just left the box when he was sent back for interference. Five minutes later, he visited the box again, this time for delay of game, after flipping the puck right over the glass and into the crowd.

The Silvertips could not capitalize on any of their power plays, even though they had some good scoring chances. On the other end of the ice, Heemskerk continued his stellar play, stopping several shots and denying Tri City any opportunities to pull ahead. Chet Pickard made a key save for the Americans at the 19 minute mark, and the second period ended with things all tied up at 1-1.

I became a little distracted during the third period by a group of fans sitting to my left. Let's just say they were really enjoying themselves and had imbibed maybe a little too much. Unfortunately, they became very rowdy, surly and abusive. And very loud. The others around me and I tried to ignore them as best we could and follow the game. I was surprised that the team could ignore them. We were right behind their bench and some of the unruly fans had extremely loud and piercing voices, including one woman who seemed bent on teaching every child in her general vicinity some choice new words.

Back to the game. Just under two minutes into the third period, the puck flew toward the Everett bench and nearly hit a photographer in the head. He ducked just in time and laughed off the close call. The play was very aggressive this period, right off the bat. Silvertips hit everyone they came across and their feeling of frustration was palpable. The faces sitting on the bench in front of me were grim, determined.

At 7:32, Tri City's Johnny Lazo drove the puck toward Everett's net so hard, he ended up skating into goalie Thomas Heemskerk. The refs quickly stepped in as Silvertips converged around Lazo, but oddly, did not call him for goalie interference. Heemskerk made several good stops as action continued down in Everett's end before the Tips found a way into Tri City's zone. Chet Pickard stopped two successive shots at 9:35; the first by Dan Iwanski, followed by Zack Dailey with the rebound. Dailey was a human cannon ball. He skates so quickly, he's a blur. And the shots he leveled last night, belie his small stature (the roster lists him at 5'6" tall). Thomas Heemskerk made a good save at 12:05, and before Tri City could attempt another shot, Cameron Abney was there to knock a player and the puck away from Heemskerk.

Tri City found the net again at 12:50. Tyler Schmidt took a blocked shot and rebounded it into an open area of the net on Heemskerk's left. 36 seconds later, Mitch Fadden scored the exact same way, after assisting Schmidt on his goal. Jason Reese also got a helper for both goals. With just under six minutes to play, d-man Graham Potuer took a hit or something that sent him crumpling to the ice. I watched him try to get up and fall again. He finally crawled to the Everett bench, where another player helped him off the ice. A trainer took over and helped Potuer to the locker room. I don't know thow badly he's hurt.

Play grew even more aggressive in the final five minutes of the third. Once again, Everett got into penalty trouble and Tri City took advantage. Taylor Ellington was called for holding at 15:25. A minute later, Jason Reese scored on the power play. Taylor Procyshen and Tyler Schmidt were credited with the assists.

With 2:29 left to play, rookie Spenser Asuchak hit the boards hard, and fell onto the ice. I saw him propped up on his elbows, talking to the trainer. Then he went limp and lay still as Tri City and Everett's trainers looked him over. His right foot wriggled several times, then stopped. The crowd was silent as we watched a player skate out with a backboard, which they placed on the ice next to Asuchak.

Several more long minutes passed, broken up by some very loud and crude comments by a woman sitting behind me. There was no doubt that everyone inside Comcast Arena heard the things she said, the tamest of which accused Asuchak of not being hurt, and calling him a few rude names. In hindsight, I should have turned around and asked this woman her name so I could print it here. That way, anyone who knows her would be able to tell her just how stupid, rude and nasty she was last night.

Paramedics arrived ten minutes after Asuchak's fall, and gingerly placed him on a stretcher, making sure his head and neck were fully braced. Then, they wheeled him slowly off the ice and into a waiting ambulance, as the crowd at Comcast Arena applauded and players banged their sticks in support.

Asuchak's injury and Tri City's three goals seemed to take the wind out of the game for the Silvertips. They tried a last push at Chet Pickard with no success, and time ran out. Final score: Tri City 4, Everett 1. The shots on goal really tell the story here. Chet Pickard stopped 23 of 24 shots for Tri City. Thomas Heemskerk stopped 51 of 55 shots for Everett. He was named the Number One Star of the Game. Number 2 was Mitch Fadden and Number 3, Jason Reese, both from Tri City.

The Silvertips travel to Kennewick tonight for that crucial Game 5 against Tri City. The puck drops at 7:05pm. If you cannot make the drive to the Tri Cities for the game, tune your radio to North Sound 1380AM for Jon Rosen's stellar play by play coverage.

WHL: Silvertips lose a squeaker to Tri City in OT, 6-5

The Everett Silvertips faced off against the Tri City Americans in Kennewick last night, in a game that was as wild as it was close. Not being able to make the drive to the Tri Cities, I contented myself with following the game on the radio, and I have to say this: If you can’t make it to a Silvertips game, you absolutely MUST tune in to North Sound AM 1380 and listen to Jon Rosen call the plays. His enthusiasm alone will almost make you feel as though you are at the game.



That enthusiasm took flight just under two minutes into the first period, when Dan Iwanski scored to put the Silvertips on the board. Iwanski’s goal came as the Silvertips were on a 5-on-3 power play (Tri City’s Lane Werbowski and Taylor Procyshen were in the box for interference and spearing, respectively). Iwanski took a rebound by Taylor Ellington and shot it past goaltender Chet Pickard. (Note: I was surprised but pleased to see Pickard in net. I had heard that the hit he took from Spokane’s Ryan Letts earlier this month may have knocked him out of action for the rest of the season, so seeing him play was very encouraging.)



Everett capitalized on another power play nearly three minutes later. This time, Ryan White took a pass from Daniel Bartek and beat Pickard. The Silvertips were now up 2-0, but as with any good team, it would only be a matter of time before the Americans got on the board. Johnny Lazo scored at the 6:43 mark to cut Everett’s lead in half. But the Silvertips made sure that was the only goal Tri City scored in the first and the clock ran down with Everett still ahead, 2-1. Shots on goal were pretty even: Everett 11, Tri City 10.



The second period featured some aggressive play by the Americans. Jon Rosen's play by play spotlighted the frustration being felt by the Silvertips’ bench as Tri City scored several times, first to tie, then to go ahead. Tyler Schmidt’s goal came on an Americans power play at 5:40, as Trevor Bauer sat out a tripping minor. Adam Hughesman scored just under three minutes later, to put Tri City ahead, 3-2. Hughesman got past Thomas Heemskerk again at 13:56, to double the Americans lead. The second period ended with Tri City ahead 4-2, and outshooting the ‘Tips 13-9.



The third period got really wild, and it was hard for Jon Rosen to keep his excitement in check. Just under the 6 minute mark, Everett’s Ryan White scored his second goal of the game to bring the ‘Tips within one again. Jesse Burt and Daniel Bartek got the assists. Then, a ten minute stretch of furious play at either end of the ice ended with Tri City’s Lane Werbowski slipping past Thomas Heemskerk to put the Americans back up, 5-3. Everett answered nine seconds later, when Tyler Maxwell beat Chet Pickard on a Shane Harper rebound to bring the ‘Tips to within one.



Here’s where it really got heated. The Silvertips pulled Heemskerk to put an extra attacker on with about two minutes to go in the period. They fired shot after shot, and Chet Pickard turned each one away. It looked as though Tri City would run the clock down and squeak by with a win right there, but they didn’t count on Silvertip Daniel Bartek. With 22 seconds left in regulation, Bartek found the net and tied it up 5-5 to force the game into overtime. Shots on goal: Everett 7, Tri City 12.



Both teams played hard in overtime. Heemskerk and Pickard seemed impenetrable in goal and play ping-ponged from end to end, until eleven minutes in. Justin Feser scored for Tri City to clinch a Game 1 victory, 6-5.



Game 2 gets under way at 7:05pm tonight in Kennewick. The teams will then come to Everett for Games 3 and 4 at Comcast Arena. Game 3 takes place on Wednesday, March 25; Game 4 on Friday, March 27. Both games begin at 7:05. You can find more information about the games and tickets by clicking here.



NOTE: During the intermission between the third period and overtime play, Jon Rosen interviewed Everett Herald reporter Nick Patterson, who has covered the Silvertips since their inception. The two discussed the game so far, before turning their attention to a young player who has just joined the Silvertips’ ranks and had suited up for his very first game. According to Rosen and Patterson, defenseman Ryan Murray is definitely a player to watch. He was a first round pick of the Silvertips in the WHL Bantam Draft. And Number 27 is just 15 years old! He doesn’t turn 16 until September. Murray assisted on Everett’s first goal (Iwanski at 1:55 of the first period). Murray has played lights out hockey for the Moose Jaw Junior Warriors of the Saskatchewan Midget Hockey Association. In 41 games this season with Moose Jaw, Ryan has 12 goals and 26 assists for 38 points. Click here to read what Nick Patterson had to say about Ryan Murray back in February.

Bittersweet Loss for Silvertips; Fall 3-2 to Chilliwack

Emotions ran high on the ice and in the stands at Comcast Arena last night for the Everett Silvertips’ final home game of the regular season against the Chilliwack Bruins. The game was sold out, yet people braved the icy wind blowing outside the Arena, hoping to score a ticket.  I thanked my lucky stars that I had bought my ticket earlier in the week.  I ended up in a great location, Section 108, Row 6, Seat 10. It’s four rows up from center ice in what the arena calls the “club section.”  (One perk, you don’t have to get up to buy food; someone can do that for you, so you don’t miss a second of action).  

I ended up next to a nice woman whose family have been season ticket holders for years.  She knew all of the players and had a great grasp of the game.  At first, she thought I was a Chilliwack fan because I was there alone.  I quickly pointed out my green shirt and white tank top, Silvertips colors.  The Bruins are black and gold, like the Boston team for which they’re named.  Once we got that settled, we sat back to enjoy the game.

Right off the opening puck drop, both teams played at a furious pace.  The puck seemed to whiz from one end to the other, players racing to keep up with it.  I noticed lots of hits being leveled by both teams.  Early in the period, the pace of play sent a Chilliwack player crashing into Everett’s net, knocking goalie Kent Simpson flat.  About four minutes into the period, a play near the Everett net knocked Chilliwack’s Ryan Howse (#22) to the ice.  He remained on the ice for several minutes while trainers checked him out.  Two of his teammates lifted him to his feet and one helped him skate off the ice into the locker room.  I noticed that he kept his right leg lifted and just let his teammate glide him off the ice.  The bad thing about injuries is that you never hear exactly what’s wrong, because coaches don’t want to tip off opponents to any perceived weaknesses.  I’m going to guess he will end up having a “lower body injury”, when all is said and done.  It looked like an ankle or knee problem to me.

Play got pretty chippy here.  Players were hitting each other all over the place. I mean, every player was leveling hits any chance they could get.  Chilliwack got on the board first, about 12 minutes into the first period.  David Robinson (#18) snuck it past Simpson. Kevin Sundher (#9) was credited with the assist.  The Bruins struck again, with about six seconds left in the period, when Everett’s Ryan White went to the box for interference.  This time, Sundher scored, with help from David Robinson and Dylen McKinlay (#19).  The first period ended with Chilliwack up 2-0.

*Interesting note:  the referees left the ice to the left of where I sat.  As they walked past, I noticed one ref pull a puck out of his pocket and hand it to a young girl who was peering over the railing.  The girl looked to be about 4 years old.  I thought that was a sweet gesture from someone who spends pretty much every hockey game being booed.

The second period started with a change in net for the Silvertips.  Kent Simpson was out, replaced by Thomas Heemskerk.  This period featured more hitting and a faster pace, if this could be possible.  Heemskerk made a few good saves and took a hit, when teammate Mike Alexander accidentally knocked fellow Silvertip Campbell Elynuik into the net.  Everyone shook themselves off and play continued.  At the 9:07 mark, Chilliwack’s Brandon Manning (#32) was called for cross-checking, setting Everett up on a power play.  Kellan Tochkin rose to the occasion, finding the net a minute later and sending the puck through.  Tyler Maxwell got the assist.

More hits, pushing and shoving ensue here.  The Bruins’ David Robinson (#18) seemed to be spoiling for a fight and tried to pick on with Ryan White.  The refs stepped in and separated the two, and dispersed other players who had converged around them.  Shortly after that, Chilliwack’s Matthew Ius (#27) went to the box for roughing and the Silvertips wasted no time taking advantage of the situation.  This time, D-man Taylor Ellington sent a shot flying into the net, on a pass from Byron Froese and Kellan Tochkin.

Chilliwack got called for two more penalties and Everett went to the box for one, but neither team could capitalize on their respective power plays, so the second period ended with things all tied up at 2-2.

The third period featured more physical play, and both teams fighting to keep the play in their opponent’s end.  Neither team lost focus nor energy and it would only be a matter of time before one team scored to pull ahead.  On this night, Chilliwack would prevail.  Just under eight minutes into the third period, Dylen McKinlay got past Thomas Heemskerk, putting the Bruins up 3-2. No matter how hard the Silvertips tried, they could not find a way to tie things up.  They pulled Heemskerk late to give themselves an extra attacker on the ice.  But as time ran out, the score remained: Chilliwack 3, Everett 2.

As the Bruins celebrated on the ice, the Silvertips grouped together and skated around the rink, raising their sticks in salute to the fans who have supported them from Day One.  The crowd responded by cheering more loudly than I’d heard through the entire game (and believe me, they were pretty loud throughout the game).   

The 3 Stars of the Game:   1. Kellan Tochkin (1 goal, 1 assist), 2. Kevin Sundher (Chilliwack- 1 goal, 1 assist), 3. Taylor Ellington (1 goal).

Following the game, the ‘Tips remained on the ice.  First, the team paid tribute to three players who would not be returning next year, because they have reached the WHL age limit:

Defenseman Taylor Ellington (#3).  Ellington played his entire WHL career with Everett. This 20 year old was drafted 33^rd overall by the Vancouver Canucks in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.  He’ll most likely play for the Canucks’ ECHL affiliate, the Victoria Salmon Kings, which is good news for Taylor, as he’s from Victoria.  In an interview earlier this week, Taylor told me about being drafted by his favorite team (Vancouver). You can read the interview by clicking here.

Defenseman Graham Potuer (#8).  Potuer also played all four years in Everett. This 20 year old was an Alternate Captain for this year’s Silvertips, along with Ellington.  The native of Red Deer, Alberta, has not decided on the next move in his hockey future, although college remains a consideration.

Center Daniel Bartek (#29).  Bartek joined the Silvertips at the start of this season in a trade with the Brandon Wheat Kings, for a fourth round draft pick in the 2009 Bantam Draft.  The 20 year old is from Olomouc in the Czech Republic.  It’s not clear what he plans to do next, although I’ve heard that college is also possibly in his future.

The tribute was followed by presentation of player awards. 

MVP:  Two players received this award:  Right Wing Shane Harper (#11) and D-Man Taylor Ellington (#3).  Harper has played an amazing regular season.  In 70 games, he’s amassed 32 goals and 34 assists for 66 points.  That surpassed the team record for most points scored by a Rookie, which was held by Kyle Beach.  Ellington was honored not only for his amazing play, but also his leadership and for being such a wonderful mentor for younger players. 

Rookie of the Year:  Right Wing Kellan Tochkin (#16).  Tochkin leads the WHL in Rookie scoring. In 70 games, he has 20 goals and 54 assists for 74 points.  If you haven’t seen this kid play, you need to. His star is rising quickly.  Tochkin was the first Silvertip I interviewed this year. You can read about his journey to the WHL by clicking here.

Most Improved:  Right Wing Cameron Abney (#26). This 17 year old has worked hard to improve his skating and puck handling skills.  Extra training sessions before and after practice have paid off for this hard hitting player, who ends the regular season with one goal and 3 assists.  In an interview two weeks ago, Cameron told me about his extra training sessions and his desire to be more than a hitter.  You can read that interview by clicking here.

Unsung Hero:  Defenseman Graham Potuer (#8).  He led the team in blocked shots and pretty much makes an impact every time he steps on the ice.  Last night, the announcer said his number may not be on many fans’ jerseys, but he is the backbone of the team.  Funny thing. I saw more Graham Potuer jerseys where I was sitting than anyone else.

Coaches’ Award:  Center Byron Froese (#14).  Byron joined the Silvertips on September 18, 2008 and made his impact felt right away. He’s been a key player all season and has 19 goals and 36 assists for 55 points. 

Iron Man Award:  Four players were recognized for playing in the first 71 games of the season: Center Zack Dailey (#21), RW Kellan Tochkin (#16), C Byron Froese (#14), RW Shane Harper (#11) (Read interview with Shane Harper here)

Scholastic Player of the Year Award:  This was given to Center Tyler Maxwell (#9) for his achievements in high school.  Several players are still in school and must combine a grueling playing schedule with classes and work hard to keep their grades up.  Byron seems to have had the most fun in Drama.  To see what happened when KING 5 cameras went to class with Byron and several other ‘Tips, click here.

Community Relations Award:  The was presented to C Byron Froese and D-Man Shayne Brown (#5) shared this award, which highlights their work in the community, which ranged from reading to elementary children to other appearances within the community.

The Silvertips wrap up the regular season tonight against the Seattle Thunderbirds at ShoWare Center.  The puck drops at 5:05pm. And I'll be there.

 

 

 

Silvertips Slay Giants in Vancouver

Photo: Kelly Shelton/Everett Silvertips

The Everett Silvertips headed into Vancouver last night, stinging from three losses in a row, including a 7-2 whipping at the hands of the Spokane Chiefs Wednesday night. The ‘Tips were ready to take their frustrations out on someone, and the Vancouver Giants just happened to land in their sights. The Silvertips also had a little payback in mind for the Giants, as the last two times the teams faced each other, Vancouver shut Everett out, 8-0 and 3-0.

The Silvertips definitely had what it took to take down the Western Conference leading Giants. Tyler Parker got the scoring started for Everett in the final five minutes of the first period. Well, Parker’s skate actually did the trick, as a pass from Jesse Burt deflected off his skate and went into the net. Cameron Abney was also credited with an assist on this goal. Two minutes later, Tyler Maxwell notched Everett’s second goal, with help from WHL Rookie leading scorer Kellan Tochkin. The first period ended with Everett up 2-0.

Vancouver came roaring back in the second period. Brendan Gallagher put the Giants on the board just 2 minutes into the period, on a shorthanded goal with help from Brent Regner and Nick Ross. They scored again six minutes later on a power play, when Evander Kane got past ‘Tips goalie Thomas Heemskerk. Craig Shira and Casey Pierro-Zabotel were credited with the assists. The second period ended with things all tied up at 2-2.

The third period saw Vancouver take the lead just 36 seconds in. Casey Pierro-Zabotel scored, with help from Evander Kane and Craig Cunningham. But the Silvertips were not going to be denied on this night. Kellan Tochkin scored about 4 minutes in, taking a pass from Tyler Maxwell and shooting the puck past Giants goalie Tyson Sexsmith. Nearly two minutes later, Everett took the lead, as Byron Froese scored a power play goal, with help from Kellan Tochkin and Taylor Ellington. Shane Harper scored with just under two minutes left in regulation, putting the Silvertips up 5-3. Daniel Bartek got the assist.

Silvertips goalie Thomas Heemskerk stopped 40 shots for his 16th win of the season. Everett won a decisive game, scoring 5 goals in only 16 shots on Vancouver’s goal.

The Silvertips hope to ride this turnaround back into Comcast Arena tonight, where they face the Chilliwack Bruins for Fan Appreciation Night. The puck drops at 7:05 and tickets are still available. Click here for more information.

Everett closes out the regular season tomorrow at ShoWare Center in Kent, against cross-town rivals the Seattle Thunderbirds. Everett won the last match-up between the two teams at ShoWare on March 1st, in an exciting game that went to a shootout. Shane Harper scored the shootout winner. Tomorrow’s game starts at 5:05. Click here for more information.

If you can’t make it to Everett or Kent to see the ‘Tips in action tonight and tomorrow night, you can listen on the radio. Just tune to 1380AM KRKO for all the exciting play by play action.