2012-13 Griffiti - Issue #1

2012-13 SEASONISSUE NO. 1

OFFICIAL

MAGAZINE

OF THE

GRAND

RAPIDS

GRIFFINS

B Grand Rapids GRIFFINS Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 1

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Not all features available with all services. Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed. Money-Back Guarantee applies to recurring monthly charge and standard installation. Call for restrictions and complete details. Comcast ©2011. All rights reserved.

XFINITY® INTERNET BEATSTHE COMPETITION COLD.

The digital world moves fast. If you have DSL, your Internet connection can get really bogged down. XFINITY High-Speed Internet gives you more bandwidth, which means blazing-fast speeds.

Now you can connect more, share faster, watch more, play games at breakneck speeds, enjoy video chats without delays, work smarter, stay organized — get more out of everything you use the Internet for!

XFINITY TV Online – Get all your HD movie and TV entertainment right on your computer at blink-of-an-eye speeds without interruption. And with On Demand now online, you can catch your favorite movies and shows anytime, anywhere.

Norton™ Security Suite – Acclaimed online protection so you can rest easier.

PowerBoost® – Super-fast download speeds of up to 15 Mbps.

Backed by our no-risk 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Get our best offer on XFINITY Internet now!Call 1-800-XFINITY or visit www.comcast.com/xfinity

XF_Internet_Griffins_Ad.indd 1 9/19/11 3:23 PM

B Grand Rapids GRIFFINS Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 1

Vol. 17, No. 1

STARTING LINEUP

21 MICHIGAN BORN & BRED From growing up in the Upper Peninsula to his various

coaching stints across the state, Jeff Blashill thinks his Michigan roots will serve him well in his new job as the head coach of the Griffins.

28 NEVER SAY NEVER Going from walk-on to captain of the Michigan Wolverines,

East Grand Rapids’ Luke Glendening defied the odds. His next goal: playing pro hockey in his hometown.

36 ONE DAY AT A TIME Francis Pare wants to maintain a singular focus this season:

helping the Griffins drive toward a playoff spot.

48 MAGNUM FORCE Mitch Callahan knows his role and feels lucky anytime he’s

asked to play the enforcer.

57 MAN OF MANY HATS As the overseer of business operations for the Griffins,

Tim Gortsema is one busy guy.

2 ...........Next Opponents5 ...........Chalk Talk6 ...........Coming Attractions9 ...........Griffins Schedule12 ........AHL Tradition14 ........AHL Team Directory18 ........It Feels Good to Connect19 ........Detroit Red Wings25 ........In Memoriam: Bryan Rufenach26 ........Promotional Calendar

40 ........Meet the Griffins43 ........Griffins Youth Foundation61 ........Community Crease65 ........Griffins Records68 ........Penalty Calls70 ........Griffins History74 ........Arena Map/Ticket Info76 ........It All Starts Here79 ........Kids Page80 ........Parting Shot

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S

ON THE BENCH

COVER:Jeff Blashill stands next to “Made in Michigan,” a sculpture by Grandville, Mich., artist Joe Krajkiewcz that was made from reclaimed barn wood and aluminum. Discover more at joekrajkiewcz.com.

Photo by Mark Newman

Griffiti magazine is published four times a year by the Grand Rapids Griffins, Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids, MI 49503. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in

part without permission is prohibited. All contents ©2012 Grand Rapids Griffins. For advertising information, contact Griffins Sales & Marketing, (616) 774-4585; fax (616) 336-5464. Unsolicited manuscripts and other materials will not be returned.

21

28

36

48

57

2 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 3

MILWAUKEE (Oct. 12, Nov. 7, Nov. 25)The Admirals are welcoming the return of Juuso Puustinen, who skated in 55 games as a rookie before suffering a season-ending foot injury from blocking a shot last March. Originally drafted in the fifth round (149th overall) of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft by the Calgary Flames, the current Nashville Predators prospect is a reliable two-way forward with good offensive skills. A native of Kuopio, Finland, the 24-year-old Puustinen scored 16 goals with 16 assists and was minus-five with eight penalty minutes last season.

HAMILTON (Oct. 13)The Bulldogs are hoping Ian Schultz will continue to improve his overall game as the rugged forward attempts to contribute more offensively rather than just by using his fists. A native of Calgary, Alberta, the 22-year-old Montreal Canadiens prospect tallied six goals and 17 assists in 2011-12, a season shortened by a knee injury. Originally chosen by the St. Louis Blues in the third round (87th overall) of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, he is the younger brother of Washington Capitals defenseman Jeff Schultz.

PLAYERSTO WATCHUPCOMING HOME OPPONENTS


CHARLOTTE (Oct. 26)The Checkers will once again rely on the big body of Brett Bellemore, a 6-foot-4, 218-pound stay-at-home defenseman who is willing to drop the gloves. Bellemore was a steady presence in the lineup last season for Charlotte, not missing a single contest on the way to a career-high 76 games played. Selected in the sixth round (162nd overall) by the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the 24-year-old Windsor, Ontario, native excels when he relies on sound positioning and consistent effort.

ROCKFORD (Oct. 27, Nov. 9)The IceHogs like the physical play of Ryan Stanton, a 23-year-old defenseman who was signed by the Chicago Blackhawks as an undrafted free agent in 2010. A native of St. Albert, Alberta, Stanton emerged as Rockford’s Most Improved Player during his rookie season in 2010-11, when he tallied three goals and 14 assists in 73 games. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Stanton repeated those same point totals last season, when he appeared in all 76 games.

CHICAGO (Nov. 23)The Wolves will push Stefan Schneider to tap his offensive potential, as the 22-year-old center enters his third season in the AHL. Signed by the Vancouver Canucks in 2010 as an undrafted free agent, the 6-foot-5, 210-pound center is valued for his forechecking and defensive abilities. During the 2010-11 season, he demonstrated his versatility when he spent some time playing defense for the Manitoba Moose when injuries or call-ups left the club short on the blueline.

TEXAS (Nov. 30, Dec. 1)The Stars hope 21-year-old defenseman Hubert Labrie will continue to make progress after missing most of the 2010-11 season with a knee injury. A native of Victoriaville, Quebec, Labrie was signed by the Dallas Stars as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He showed his toughness during his final season in junior hockey, when he led the Gatineau Olympiques to the championship series despite breaking his hand in the first game of the playoffs.

PEORIA (Dec. 5)The Rivermen are excited about the blossoming talents of Cade Fairchild, a 23-year-old defenseman who played four seasons at the University of Minnesota. A fourth-round pick (96th overall) of the St. Louis Blues in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Fairchild is a product of the U.S. National Team development program. He was named to the AHL All-Rookie Team last season, when he tallied eight goals and 26 assists in 68 games. Fairchild was also recalled four times by the Blues in 2011-12, appearing in five NHL games.


HUNTINGTON CELEBRATES

Member FDIC. Huntington® is a federally registered service mark of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. Huntington.® Welcome.TM is a service mark of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. ©2012 Huntington Bancshares Incorporated.

WITH G R IFFINS HEAD COACH JEFF BLASHILL


If there were any doubts about the importance of naming Jeff Blashill as the new head coach of the Griffins, Red Wings assistant general manager of hockey administration Ryan Martin laid them aside when Detroit made the official announcement this past summer. “The AHL coach is a critical person in an NHL team’s organizational chart,” Martin said. “The AHL coach has to wear many hats – he has to be a leader, a disciplinarian, a guidance counselor, a parent, a psychiatrist and a teacher. In our opinion, Jeff is uniquely qualified to guide our young prospects and, having coached in the NHL, he knows what it takes to play at the highest level.” Blashill, who comes to Grand Rapids after one year in Detroit as a Red Wings assistant coach, is anxious to get to work. “Winning is having a special group of players whose character is defined by their inner drive to be great, their highly competitive nature and their selflessness,” he said. “I know those are the ingredients to be successful because I saw it in Detroit.” As the head coach, Blashill believes it’s his responsibility to make sure his players have every opportunity to succeed. “I believe a coach’s job is to set extremely high standards and then demand that the players meet that standard. I don’t think that changes wherever you go,” Blashill said. For some players, the arrival of a new coach will mean an opportunity for a fresh start. “I’ll make my own judgments based on what I see and what I know,” he said. “Now, part of what I know is based on a guy’s reputation. That’s the reality. However, I’m stubborn enough to make my own decisions. If a guy’s had a rough go before, he will have a clean slate to make a totally different impression on me.” Blashill laid out the foundation of his coaching philosophy. He values puck possession (“Treat

the puck like gold”), strong forechecking and backchecking (“Make the opposition earn every inch of ice”) and relentless aggressiveness (“Every time your opponent touches the puck, be in their face”). Blashill believes if players are willing to work, they put their team in a position to win. “Winning in this league is not easy,” he said. “However, I don’t think winning is rocket science. I do think there’s a simple formula. It takes greater commitment, stronger work ethic and more attention to detail on a daily basis than

most people are willing to give.” Blashill is thankful for the return of Griffins assistant coach Jim Paek, who provides more than a measure of continuity as the new coach implements his systems. “I’m really lucky that he’s staying on board because he brings a wealth of experience,” Blashill said. “Before he started coaching, he spent a number of years playing pro at different levels for different coaches. Plus, it’s not often that you get to work with someone who has won two Stanley Cups.” Blashill looks for a highly competitive AHL this season. “Like most leagues today, the competition is extremely tight,” he said. “There’s not a huge difference between the best team and the team that misses the playoffs. Every

point is extremely important, and a good start will help us build confidence. For the Griffins to excel, Blashill believes the team will need a balanced attack. “People ask me if I’m offense or defense, and I believe you can be both. A good offense comes from good defense, and vice versa. You need both to win.” Whether the Griffins are ultimately stronger in one facet of the game or the other, Blashill makes one promise. “We’re going to play an exciting brand of hockey, and the most exciting kind is when you win a lot.”

CHALK TALKWITH G RIFFINS HEAD COACH JEFF BLASHILL

“I believe a coach’s job is

to set extremely high standards

and then demand that the

players meet that standard.”

Photo: Occam Photography

6 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Make a date to attend several Griffins games this season, as the organization has a full calendar of freebies for fans.

From calendars spotlighting your hometown sports team to celebrity calendars featuring your favorite actor or musical artist, there is big business in the printing of 12 months of bound pages.

When did it all start?Some might point to Johannes Gutenberg, inventor

of the printing press, who produced the first calendar printed with moveable type for the year 1448. But the modern wall calendar traces its roots to Joseph Salmon, a postcard printer who came up with the idea of using pictures on “turnover” pages in 1909.

The first Salmon calendars – the company is still in business today – were printed on postcard board bound with ribbon at the top. Spiral and “wire-o” binding was invented in 1940s during the era when pinup calendars found favor with troops stationed overseas.

Today, you can find a calendar to match any whim, whether you’re a fan of Justin Bieber, Justin Timberlake or Justin Verlander. Every new year offers new editions, and Griffins fans are not going to be left out in the cold.

Thanks to Delta Imports, a Griffins calendar giveaway is set for two dates: Saturday, Oct. 13 and Saturday, Oct. 27, when the Griffins are scheduled to meet the Hamilton Bulldogs and Rockford IceHogs, respectively.

In fact, the Griffins have a whole series of giveaways planned for 2012-13, starting with LED glow stix for the season opener. On the immediate horizon are a Griffins poster and puzzle giveaway presented by Milestones Child Development Center on Sunday, Nov. 25, and a holiday ornament giveaway – think Griff dressed in Ralphie’s pink bunny suit from A Christmas Story – on Scout Night presented by United Bank on Dec. 1.

More giveaway dates can be found on page 26 of Griffiti.

Nov. 7: 12th Annual Matinee GameAll together now: “SpongeBob! SquarePants!

SpongeBob! SquarePants!”The chant from the cartoon series is bound to be

heard at least once or twice during the 12th annual Matinee Game, which draws thousands of students from schools across the area.

Once again, the Griffins will encourage learning as well as fun with interactive and educational displays throughout the concourse for elementary and high school students.

Elementary kids will discover topics centered on health and fitness through various displays and hands-on activities set up by Grand Valley State University, while several speakers will educate high school students on various opportunities. The game will then face off at its new 11 a.m. start time.

Nov. 23: Teddy Bear Toss

Fans are encouraged to bring a new, store-tagged teddy bear or stuffed animal to throw on the ice when the Griffins score their first goal. All stuffed animals collected will be donated to Hug-A-Bears of Kent County.

Started in 1994, Hug-A-Bears serves a number of local organizations, including DeVos Children’s Hospital, Gilda’s Club, Hospice for Children, Indian Trails Camp, Project Rehab, Saint John’s Home, YWCA Domestic Crisis Center and various funeral homes and nursing homes.

The Nov. 23 game against longtime rival Chicago Wolves also marks another Friday when fans can enjoy $1 hot dogs and $1 domestic drafts from 6-8 p.m., while supplies last.

COMING ATTRACTIONSG I V E A W A Y S G A L O R E

Phot

o: B

obby

Pul

te

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 7

Wherever life takes you in the Grand Rapids metro area, The Rapid has an easy, low-cost way to get you there.

For more information visit www.ridetherapid.org.

800-442-9070 www.mos-xerox.com

Our People, One Purpose…

Delivering a World-Class Customer Experience.

Official DocumentSolutions Provider for:


PRIMARY AFFILIATE

All times Eastern. Dates, opponents and times subject to change.

Home Away

J&H Family Stores Post-Game Open SkateHuntington BankPost-Game Autograph SessionFan 4-Pack Home GameGriff’s Reading Goals Redemption Date

2012-13SEASON SCHEDULE{ {

7 8 9 10 11 HAM7:00

14 15 16 17 RCH7:05 20

TOR3:00 22 23 24 25 RFD

7:00

CHI5:00 29 30

OctoberS M T W T F S

31

6

18CHA7:00

1 2 3 4 5MIL7:00

JanuaryS M T W T F S

1 2 3MIL4:00 7 8 10 RFD

8:05

15 CHA7:00 18

21 22 OKC7:00 24 HOU

7:00HOU7:00

27

OKC7:00

CHI8:00

RFD8:05

PEO7:00

13 14 CHA7:00

RFD8:05

2028 29 30 31

TEX8:00

5 6 8 RFD7:00

11 12 14 15 LE7:30 17

19 2120 22 CHI7:00

PEO8:35

26

NovemberS M T W T F S

1 SA8:30

HOU6:05

MIL11AM

PEO8:05

1318MIL4:00 27 28 29 TEX

7:00

TEX7:00

2 3 4 610 13

TOR3:00 17 18 RCH

7:00 20 CHI7:00

2524

DecemberS M T W T F S

PEO7:00

CHI8:30 8

RFD4:00 11 12 PEO

7:00 15ABB7:00

23 26 27 TOR7:00 29

RFD6:00

TOR7:00

HAM7:30

ABB7:00

4 5 HOU7:00 7 OKC

8:00OKC8:00

10 12 14 LE7:00 16

CHA4:00 18 19 21 RFD

8:05SA7:00

FebruaryS M T W T F S

311 13

20SA4:00 25 26 27 28

MIL4:00 4 5 7

11 12 CHI7:00 14

PEO4:05 18 PEO

8:05

MarchS M T W T F S

2125 26 TEX

8:00

MIL8:00

PEO8:05

6 HAM7:00

LE7:00

HAM5:00 15 MIL

8:00

20 LE7:00

LE7:30

24 27 SA8:00

HOU8:05

31

1 HOU8:05 4 ABB

10:00ABB10:00

S M T W T F S 3

7 8 9 11 MIL7:00

PEO7:00

CHI7:00

14

April

15 16 18 PEO7:00

LE7:3017

CHI5:00

First-Ever Outdoor Game at Comerica Park

Games broadcast live on

ABB – AbbotsfordCHA – CharlotteCHI – ChicagoHAM – HamiltonHOU – HoustonLE – Lake ErieMIL – Milwaukee

OKC – Oklahoma CityPEO – PeoriaRCH – RochesterRFD – RockfordSA – San AntonioTEX – TexasTOR – Toronto

TO PURCHASE TICKETS OR FOR MORE INFO, VISIT GRIFFINSHOCKEY.COM

OR CALL 1.800.2.HOCKEY


Dear Fans,

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to another exciting season of American Hockey League action. We are proud to be entering our 77th season of continuous play, bringing a tradition of excellence and an entertaining, physical, and highly skilled level of play to more than 6 million hockey fans annually across North America.

Once again in 2012-13, there are 30 teams competing for the historic Calder Cup championship and all 30 National Hockey League clubs are developing their top prospects and draft picks in the AHL. Last season more than 200 first- and second-round NHL draft picks competed in the American Hockey League, and 329 players took the ice in both the AHL and the NHL.

We continue to be proud of our tradition of developing the best hockey talent in the world, with over 88 percent of today’s NHL players, coaches and officials having honed their skills in the American Hockey League. Our loyal and passionate fans through the years have enjoyed cheering for more than 100 future Hockey Hall of Famers, and have rooted for more than 100 Calder Cup champions who would go on to have their names engraved on the Stanley Cup as well.

The Norfolk Admirals enter this season as the defending Calder Cup champions after capturing the city’s first-ever AHL title last June. This year’s Admirals are looking to hold off 29 other teams whose ultimate goal will also be the 2013 Calder Cup championship.

We invite fans from across the league to join us in Providence, R.I. on January 27 and 28 for our annual celebration of AHL excellence as the 2013 Dunkin’ Donuts AHL All-Star Classic comes to one of the league’s most storied cities.

On behalf of all of our teams, thank you again for your continuing support and I wish you the utmost enjoyment in following your club through what is sure to be another terrific season.

Sincerely,

David A. AndrewsPresident & Chief Executive OfficerAmerican Hockey League

PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER,AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

DAVID A. ANDREWS

American Hockey LeagueOne Monarch Place – Springfield, MA 01144Phone: (413) 781-2030 Fax: (413) 733-4767

@TheAHLtheahl.com/TheAHL

Dear Grand Rapids Griffins Fans,

For many people, spring is the season of renewal. The days get warmer, the grass starts to grow, birds return to the sky, and leaves begin to fill the trees.

But for hockey fans and teams, autumn is that cherished time of rebirth. The nights get crisp, a new ice sheet is built, the latest crop of rookies mixes with the veterans, and fans flock to the arena to support their favorite team.

Yes, another Griffins season – our 17th overall and 11th as the Detroit Red Wings’ affiliate – is upon us, and we are excited about everything that the next nine months have in store.

To begin with, renewal is a very appropriate word this season, as we’ve extended our Red Wings affiliation agreement through 2017 and our Van Andel Arena lease through 2037, securing two building blocks of our organization’s success and stability for many years to come.

Continuity will also be evident on the ice. NHL-ready players such as Gustav Nyquist and Brendan Smith could return for extended action in Grand Rapids this season, while longtime Griffins like Francis Pare and Tomas Tatar should continue their storied offensive production.

Renewal also denotes change, and perhaps the most notable for 2012-13 is behind our bench, as Jeff Blashill begins his first season as our head coach following Curt Fraser’s departure to the NHL’s Dallas Stars.

Geographically speaking, no Griffins coach has ever had such extensive and wide-ranging ties to the state of Michigan as Blashill. Born in Detroit and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, he played goal and later served as an assistant coach for Ferris State, oversaw a resurgence of Western Michigan’s program in 2010-11, then spent last year as a Red Wings assistant coach under Mike Babcock.

Another new face with local ties is forward Luke Glendening, an East Grand Rapids resident and University of Michigan graduate who looks to become the first native of Greater Grand Rapids to wear a Griffins uniform. Other rookies to watch include goalie Petr Mrazek and forwards Tomas Jurco and Riley Sheahan.

Of course, the most significant names in our organization’s continued success are those not mentioned here. Every Griffins fan has played a role in two remarkable accomplishments for our franchise: our tradition of Opening Night sellouts, and our achievement of average attendance increases in five of the last six seasons. Regardless of what changes from year to year, your fantastic support has always been a constant, and one of the reasons we so look forward to each new hockey season.

On behalf of the entire Griffins organization, thank you for your unmatched support. I hope you enjoy everything this season has to offer.

Sincerely,

Dan DeVosPresident & CEOGrand Rapids Griffins


Dear Fans,

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to another exciting season of American Hockey League action. We are proud to be entering our 77th season of continuous play, bringing a tradition of excellence and an entertaining, physical, and highly skilled level of play to more than 6 million hockey fans annually across North America.

Once again in 2012-13, there are 30 teams competing for the historic Calder Cup championship and all 30 National Hockey League clubs are developing their top prospects and draft picks in the AHL. Last season more than 200 first- and second-round NHL draft picks competed in the American Hockey League, and 329 players took the ice in both the AHL and the NHL.

We continue to be proud of our tradition of developing the best hockey talent in the world, with over 88 percent of today’s NHL players, coaches and officials having honed their skills in the American Hockey League. Our loyal and passionate fans through the years have enjoyed cheering for more than 100 future Hockey Hall of Famers, and have rooted for more than 100 Calder Cup champions who would go on to have their names engraved on the Stanley Cup as well.

The Norfolk Admirals enter this season as the defending Calder Cup champions after capturing the city’s first-ever AHL title last June. This year’s Admirals are looking to hold off 29 other teams whose ultimate goal will also be the 2013 Calder Cup championship.

We invite fans from across the league to join us in Providence, R.I. on January 27 and 28 for our annual celebration of AHL excellence as the 2013 Dunkin’ Donuts AHL All-Star Classic comes to one of the league’s most storied cities.

On behalf of all of our teams, thank you again for your continuing support and I wish you the utmost enjoyment in following your club through what is sure to be another terrific season.

Sincerely,

David A. AndrewsPresident & Chief Executive OfficerAmerican Hockey League

PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER,AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

DAVID A. ANDREWS

American Hockey LeagueOne Monarch Place – Springfield, MA 01144Phone: (413) 781-2030 Fax: (413) 733-4767

@TheAHLtheahl.com/TheAHL


LEGENDS

The American Hockey League is enjoying its 77th season of play in 2012-13, continuing a tradition of excellence that began in 1936 when the Canadian-American Hockey League merged with the International Hockey League to form what is today known as the AHL. Eight teams hit the ice that first season, playing in Buffalo, Cleveland, New Haven, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Providence, Springfield and Syracuse.

Frank Calder, the National Hockey League’s president at the time, was instrumental in the forming of the new league, and his name would be given to its championship trophy. The first Calder Cup was won by the Syracuse Stars in 1937; the 76th championship was captured by the Norfolk Admirals last spring.

theahl.com/TheAHL @TheAHL

STARS

COACHES

Over the past three-quarters of a century, the American Hockey League has been home to some of the greatest players in the history of our sport. In fact, more than 100 honored members of the Hockey Hall of Fame have been affiliated with the AHL during their careers. All-time greats like George Armstrong, Toe Blake, Gump Worsley, Terry Sawchuk, Glenn Hall, Brad Park, Ken Dryden and Brett Hull came through the AHL ranks and now find themselves enshrined in Toronto, and the coveted Calder Cup trophy is inscribed with the names of legendary AHL alumni like Patrick Roy, Larry Robinson, Gerry Cheevers, Andy Bathgate,Tim Horton, Al Arbour, Emile Francis, Doug Harvey and Billy Smith.

The American Hockey League has created its own legends as well, and in 2006 began honoring them with the formation of the AHL Hall of Fame. The seventh class of inductees, recognized in 2012, included Joe Crozier, Jack Gordon, John Stevens and Zellio Toppazzini. They join the likes of Johnny Bower, Fred Glover, Jody Gage, Mitch Lamoureux, Willie Marshall, Frank Mathers, Eddie Shore, Bruce Boudreau, Tim Tookey and others as distinguished members of the American Hockey League Hall of Fame.

The AHL All-Star Classic showcases the league’s top talent each year in an All-Star Skills Competition and All-Star Game. The 2013 Dunkin’ Donuts AHL All-Star Classic will be held in Providence, R.I., on January 27-28, featuring the Eastern Conference All-Stars battling the Western Conference All-Stars in an event to be televised live across the U.S. and Canada.

Of the 597 players to take part in the AHL All-Star Classic since 1995, more than 92 percent have competed in the National Hockey League, including Dan Boyle, Daniel Briere, Ryan Callahan, Brian Campbell, Chris Kunitz, Zach Parise, Bobby Ryan, Martin St. Louis, Eric Staal and Tomas Vokoun.

FANS

PLAYERSHISTORY

In today’s National Hockey League, more than 88 percent of the players are AHL alumni, including 2012 Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson of the Ottawa Senators and Selke Trophy recipient Patrice Bergeron of the Boston Bruins. The 2012 Stanley Cup champion Los Angeles Kings were stocked with AHL graduates as well, among them Dustin Brown, Jeff Carter, Mike Richards, Dustin Penner, Jarret Stoll, Willie Mitchell and Conn Smythe Trophy winner Jonathan Quick.

During the 2011-12 season, more than 850 AHL alumni played in the National Hockey League, including 329 who skated in both leagues last year alone. Edmonton’s Jordan Eberle, Ottawa’s Jason Spezza and Philadelphia’s Claude Giroux were among the 11 AHL graduates who led their NHL teams in scoring, and former AHL All-Stars Pekka Rinne, Kari Lehtonen and Ryan Miller were among the 28 AHL goaltending alumni who paced their NHL clubs in victories. More than 200 former first- and second-round draft picks developed their skills in the AHL last season, including 2012 AHL All-Stars Kyle Palmieri, Thomas Hickey, Brandon Pirri, Colby Robak, Alex Plante and Zack Kassian.

Jonathan Quick2012 Conn Smythe Trophy Winner

A Tradition of ExcellenceEst. 1936

The Norfolk Admirals set a franchise single-season attendance record in

2011-12 en route to their firstCalder Cup championship.

Phot

o: J

ohn

Wrig

ht

PhotoGraphics Photography/AHL

Photo: Los Angeles Kings

Former AHL forward Claude Giroux finished third in the NHL scoring race with 93 points for the Flyers

in 2011-12.

Photo: AHL Archives

Ben Bishop2012 AHL All-Star Game MVP

Billy SmithHonored Member, Hockey Hall of Fame

1971 Calder Cup Champion

At the start of the 2012-13 season, the NHL featured 22 head coaches who were former AHL bench bosses, including recent Stanley Cup champions Claude Julien (Boston, 2011), Joel Quenneville (Chicago, 2010), Dan Bylsma (Pittsburgh, 2009), Mike Babcock (Detroit, 2008), Randy Carlyle (Anaheim, 2007), Peter Laviolette (Carolina, 2006) and John Tortorella (Tampa Bay, 2004).

“The American Hockey League has been essential in developing my potential both as a player and as a coach.Being able to hone my skills and improve at a high level of competition was key to reaching my goals of

playing in the NHL, becoming a head coach and winning the Stanley Cup.”-- Dan Bylsma, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Penguins

2011 Jack Adams Award Winner, 2009 Stanley Cup Champion

Attendance was up nearly 5 percent in 2011-12 as 6.4 million fans attended games; since 2001, AHL games have been played before more than 72 million fans in arenas across North America. The Hershey Bears paced the league for the sixth year in a row, averaging 9,872 fans per game last season, and outdoor showcases in Philadelphia (45,653 - an all-time AHL record) and Hamilton (20,565 - largest ever for AHL in Canada) set league attendance marks.

Phot

o: H

HOF


LEGENDS

The American Hockey League is enjoying its 77th season of play in 2012-13, continuing a tradition of excellence that began in 1936 when the Canadian-American Hockey League merged with the International Hockey League to form what is today known as the AHL. Eight teams hit the ice that first season, playing in Buffalo, Cleveland, New Haven, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Providence, Springfield and Syracuse.

Frank Calder, the National Hockey League’s president at the time, was instrumental in the forming of the new league, and his name would be given to its championship trophy. The first Calder Cup was won by the Syracuse Stars in 1937; the 76th championship was captured by the Norfolk Admirals last spring.

theahl.com/TheAHL @TheAHL

STARS

COACHES

Over the past three-quarters of a century, the American Hockey League has been home to some of the greatest players in the history of our sport. In fact, more than 100 honored members of the Hockey Hall of Fame have been affiliated with the AHL during their careers. All-time greats like George Armstrong, Toe Blake, Gump Worsley, Terry Sawchuk, Glenn Hall, Brad Park, Ken Dryden and Brett Hull came through the AHL ranks and now find themselves enshrined in Toronto, and the coveted Calder Cup trophy is inscribed with the names of legendary AHL alumni like Patrick Roy, Larry Robinson, Gerry Cheevers, Andy Bathgate,Tim Horton, Al Arbour, Emile Francis, Doug Harvey and Billy Smith.

The American Hockey League has created its own legends as well, and in 2006 began honoring them with the formation of the AHL Hall of Fame. The seventh class of inductees, recognized in 2012, included Joe Crozier, Jack Gordon, John Stevens and Zellio Toppazzini. They join the likes of Johnny Bower, Fred Glover, Jody Gage, Mitch Lamoureux, Willie Marshall, Frank Mathers, Eddie Shore, Bruce Boudreau, Tim Tookey and others as distinguished members of the American Hockey League Hall of Fame.

The AHL All-Star Classic showcases the league’s top talent each year in an All-Star Skills Competition and All-Star Game. The 2013 Dunkin’ Donuts AHL All-Star Classic will be held in Providence, R.I., on January 27-28, featuring the Eastern Conference All-Stars battling the Western Conference All-Stars in an event to be televised live across the U.S. and Canada.

Of the 597 players to take part in the AHL All-Star Classic since 1995, more than 92 percent have competed in the National Hockey League, including Dan Boyle, Daniel Briere, Ryan Callahan, Brian Campbell, Chris Kunitz, Zach Parise, Bobby Ryan, Martin St. Louis, Eric Staal and Tomas Vokoun.

FANS

PLAYERSHISTORY

In today’s National Hockey League, more than 88 percent of the players are AHL alumni, including 2012 Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson of the Ottawa Senators and Selke Trophy recipient Patrice Bergeron of the Boston Bruins. The 2012 Stanley Cup champion Los Angeles Kings were stocked with AHL graduates as well, among them Dustin Brown, Jeff Carter, Mike Richards, Dustin Penner, Jarret Stoll, Willie Mitchell and Conn Smythe Trophy winner Jonathan Quick.

During the 2011-12 season, more than 850 AHL alumni played in the National Hockey League, including 329 who skated in both leagues last year alone. Edmonton’s Jordan Eberle, Ottawa’s Jason Spezza and Philadelphia’s Claude Giroux were among the 11 AHL graduates who led their NHL teams in scoring, and former AHL All-Stars Pekka Rinne, Kari Lehtonen and Ryan Miller were among the 28 AHL goaltending alumni who paced their NHL clubs in victories. More than 200 former first- and second-round draft picks developed their skills in the AHL last season, including 2012 AHL All-Stars Kyle Palmieri, Thomas Hickey, Brandon Pirri, Colby Robak, Alex Plante and Zack Kassian.

Jonathan Quick2012 Conn Smythe Trophy Winner

A Tradition of ExcellenceEst. 1936

The Norfolk Admirals set a franchise single-season attendance record in

2011-12 en route to their firstCalder Cup championship.

Phot

o: J

ohn

Wrig

htPhotoGraphics Photography/AHL

Photo: Los Angeles Kings

Former AHL forward Claude Giroux finished third in the NHL scoring race with 93 points for the Flyers

in 2011-12.

Photo: AHL Archives

Ben Bishop2012 AHL All-Star Game MVP

Billy SmithHonored Member, Hockey Hall of Fame

1971 Calder Cup Champion

At the start of the 2012-13 season, the NHL featured 22 head coaches who were former AHL bench bosses, including recent Stanley Cup champions Claude Julien (Boston, 2011), Joel Quenneville (Chicago, 2010), Dan Bylsma (Pittsburgh, 2009), Mike Babcock (Detroit, 2008), Randy Carlyle (Anaheim, 2007), Peter Laviolette (Carolina, 2006) and John Tortorella (Tampa Bay, 2004).

“The American Hockey League has been essential in developing my potential both as a player and as a coach.Being able to hone my skills and improve at a high level of competition was key to reaching my goals of

playing in the NHL, becoming a head coach and winning the Stanley Cup.”-- Dan Bylsma, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Penguins

2011 Jack Adams Award Winner, 2009 Stanley Cup Champion

Attendance was up nearly 5 percent in 2011-12 as 6.4 million fans attended games; since 2001, AHL games have been played before more than 72 million fans in arenas across North America. The Hershey Bears paced the league for the sixth year in a row, averaging 9,872 fans per game last season, and outdoor showcases in Philadelphia (45,653 - an all-time AHL record) and Hamilton (20,565 - largest ever for AHL in Canada) set league attendance marks.

Phot

o: H

HOF


ADIRONDACK PHANTOMS NHL AFFILIATION: Philadelphia Flyers HOME ICE: Glens Falls Civic Center (4,816) GENERAL MANAGER: Paul Holmgren HEAD COACH: Terry Murray ENTERED AHL: 1996-97 (as Philadelphia Phantoms) CALDER CUPS: Two (1998, 2005) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 10 of 16 2011-12 RECORD: 37-35-2-2, 78 pts. WEBSITE: www.phantomshockey.com

ALBANY DEVILS NHL AFFILIATION: New Jersey Devils HOME ICE: Times Union Center (6,691) GENERAL MANAGER: Chris Lamoriello HEAD COACH: Rick Kowalsky ENTERED AHL: 2006-07 (as Lowell Devils) CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 1 of 6 2011-12 RECORD: 31-34-6-5, 73 pts. WEBSITE: www.thealbanydevils.com

BINGHAMTON SENATORS NHL AFFILIATION: Ottawa Senators HOME ICE: Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena (4,679) PRESIDENT: Tim Smith HEAD COACH: Luke Richardson ENTERED AHL: 2002-03 CALDER CUPS: One (2011) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 4 of 10 2011-12 RECORD: 29-40-5-2, 65 pts. WEBSITE: www.binghamtonsenators.com

BRIDGEPORT SOUND TIGERS NHL AFFILIATION: New York Islanders HOME ICE: Webster Bank Arena (8,412) GENERAL MANAGER: Garth Snow HEAD COACH: Scott Pellerin ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 7 of 11 2011-12 RECORD: 41-26-3-6, 91 pts. WEBSITE: www.soundtigers.com

CONNECTICUT WHALE NHL AFFILIATION: New York Rangers HOME ICE: XL Center Veterans Memorial Coliseum (15,635) GENERAL MANAGER: Jim Schoenfeld HEAD COACH: Ken Gernander ENTERED AHL: 1997-98 (as Hartford Wolf Pack) CALDER CUPS: One (2000) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 14 of 15 2011-12 RECORD: 36-26-7-7, 86 pts. WEBSITE: www.ctwhale.com

HERSHEY BEARS NHL AFFILIATION: Washington Capitals HOME ICE: Giant Center (10,500) GENERAL MANAGER: Doug Yingst HEAD COACH: Mark French ENTERED AHL: 1938-39 CALDER CUPS: 11 (1947, 1958, 1959, 1969, 1974, 1980, 1988, 1997, 2006, 2009, 2010) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 63 of 74 2011-12 RECORD: 38-26-4-8, 88 pts. WEBSITE: www.hersheybears.com

MANCHESTER MONARCHS NHL AFFILIATION: Los Angeles Kings HOME ICE: Verizon Wireless Arena (9,852) GENERAL MANAGER: Ron Hextall HEAD COACH: Mark Morris ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 10 of 11 2011-12 RECORD: 39-32-2-3, 83 pts. WEBSITE: www.manchestermonarchs.com

NORFOLK ADMIRALS NHL AFFILIATION: Anaheim Ducks HOME ICE: Norfolk Scope (8,700) GENERAL MANAGER: Bob Murray HEAD COACH: Trent Yawney ENTERED AHL: 2000-01 CALDER CUPS: One (2012) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 9 of 12 2011-12 RECORD: 55-18-1-2, 113 pts. WEBSITE: www.norfolkadmirals.com

PORTLAND PIRATES NHL AFFILIATION: Phoenix Coyotes HOME ICE: Cumberland County Civic Center (6,733) GENERAL MANAGER: Brad Treliving HEAD COACH: Ray Edwards ENTERED AHL: 1993-94 CALDER CUPS: One (1994) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 14 of 19 2011-12 RECORD: 36-31-4-5, 81 pts. WEBSITE: www.portlandpirates.com

PROVIDENCE BRUINS NHL AFFILIATION: Boston Bruins HOME ICE: Dunkin’ Donuts Center Providence (11,075) GENERAL MANAGER: Peter Chiarelli HEAD COACH: Bruce Cassidy ENTERED AHL: 1992-93 CALDER CUPS: One (1999) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 15 of 20 2011-12 RECORD: 35-34-3-4, 77 pts. WEBSITE: www.providencebruins.com

SPRINGFIELD FALCONS NHL AFFILIATION: Columbus Blue Jackets HOME ICE: MassMutual Center (6,789) GENERAL MANAGER: Bruce Landon HEAD COACH: Brad Larsen ENTERED AHL: 1994-95 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 6 of 18 2011-12 RECORD: 36-34-3-3, 78 pts. WEBSITE: www.falconsahl.com

2 0 1 2 - 1 3 A H L D I R E C T O R Y

EASTERN CONFERENCEATLANTIC DIVISION:

Manchester, Portland, Providence, St. John’s, Worcester NORTHEAST DIVISION:

Adirondack, Albany, Bridgeport, Connecticut, Springfield EAST DIVISION: B

inghamton, Hershey, Norfolk, Syracuse, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton


ST. JOHN’S ICECAPS NHL AFFILIATION: Winnipeg Jets HOME ICE: Mile One Centre (6,247) GENERAL MANAGER: Craig Heisinger HEAD COACH: Keith McCambridge ENTERED AHL: 2011-12 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 1 of 1 2011-12 RECORD: 43-25-5-3 WEBSITE: www.stjohnsicecaps.com

SYRACUSE CRUNCH NHL AFFILIATION: Tampa Bay Lightning HOME ICE: Onondaga County War Memorial at Oncenter (6,159) GENERAL MANAGER: Julien BriseBois HEAD COACH: Jon Cooper ENTERED AHL: 1994-95 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 10 of 18 2011-12 RECORD: 37-29-5-5, 84 pts. WEBSITE: www.syracusecrunch.com

WILKES-BARRE/SCRANTON PENGUINS NHL AFFILIATION: Pittsburgh Penguins HOME ICE: Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza (8,050) GENERAL MANAGER: Ray Shero HEAD COACH: John Hynes ENTERED AHL: 1999-00 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 11 of 13 2011-12 RECORD: 44-25-2-5, 95 pts. WEBSITE: www.wbspenguins.com

WORCESTER SHARKS NHL AFFILIATION: San Jose Sharks HOME ICE: DCU Center (5,400) GENERAL MANAGER: Wayne Thomas HEAD COACH: Roy Sommer ENTERED AHL: 2006-07 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 3 of 6 2011-12 RECORD: 31-33-4-8, 74 pts. WEBSITE: www.sharksahl.com

ABBOTSFORD HEAT NHL AFFILIATION: Calgary Flames HOME ICE: Abbotsford Entertainment & Sports Centre (7,046) GENERAL MANAGER: Jay Feaster HEAD COACH: Troy G. Ward ENTERED AHL: 2009-10 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 2 of 3 2011-12 RECORD: 42-26-3-5, 92 pts. WEBSITE: www.abbotsfordheat.com

CHARLOTTE CHECKERS NHL AFFILIATION: Carolina Hurricanes HOME ICE: Time Warner Cable Arena (6,800) HEAD COACH/ GENERAL MANAGER: Jeff Daniels ENTERED AHL: 2010-11 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 1 of 2 2011-12 RECORD: 38-29-3-6, 85 pts. WEBSITE: www.gocheckers.com

CHICAGO WOLVES NHL AFFILIATION: Vancouver Canucks HOME ICE: Allstate Arena (16,692) GENERAL MANAGER: Wendell Young HEAD COACH: Scott Arniel ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: Two (2002, 2008) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 8 of 11 2011-12 RECORD: 42-27-4-3, 91 pts. WEBSITE: www.chicagowolves.com

GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS NHL AFFILIATION: Detroit Red Wings HOME ICE: Van Andel Arena (10,834) HEAD COACH: Jeff Blashill ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 6 of 11 2011-12 RECORD: 33-32-7-4, 77 pts. WEBSITE: www.griffinshockey.com

HAMILTON BULLDOGS NHL AFFILIATION: Montreal Canadiens HOME ICE: Copps Coliseum (8,819) GENERAL MANAGER: Marc Bergevin HEAD COACH: Sylvain Lefebvre ENTERED AHL: 1996-97 CALDER CUPS: One (2007) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 12 of 16 2011-12 RECORD: 34-35-2-5, 75 pts. WEBSITE: www.hamiltonbulldogs.com

HOUSTON AEROS NHL AFFILIATION: Minnesota Wild HOME ICE: Toyota Center (8,939) GENERAL MANAGER: Jim Mill HEAD COACH: John Torchetti ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: One (2003) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 9 of 11 2011-12 RECORD: 35-25-5-11, 86 pts. WEBSITE: www.aeros.com

LAKE ERIE MONSTERS NHL AFFILIATION: Colorado Avalanche HOME ICE: Quicken Loans Arena (20,093) DIRECTOR OF AHL OPERATIONS: David Oliver HEAD COACH: Dean Chynoweth ENTERED AHL: 2007-08 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 1 of 5 2011-12 RECORD: 37-29-3-7, 84 pts. WEBSITE: www.lakeeriemonsters.com

2 0 1 2 - 1 3 A H L D I R E C T O R Y

WESTERN CONFERENCEMIDWEST DIVISION:

Grand Rapids, Chicago, Milwaukee, Peoria, Rockford NORTH DIVISION:

Abbotsford, Hamilton, Lake Erie, Rochester, Toronto SOUTH DIVISION:

Charlotte, Houston, Oklahoma City, San Antonio, Texas


MILWAUKEE ADMIRALS NHL AFFILIATION: Nashville Predators HOME ICE: BMO Harris Bradley Center (17,845) GENERAL MANAGER: Paul Fenton HEAD COACH: Dean Evason ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: One (2004) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 10 of 11 2011-12 RECORD: 40-29-2-5, 87 pts. WEBSITE: www.milwaukeeadmirals.com

OKLAHOMA CITY BARONS NHL AFFILIATION: Edmonton Oilers HOME ICE: Cox Convention Center (7,500) GENERAL MANAGER: Bill Scott HEAD COACH: Todd Nelson ENTERED AHL: 2010-11 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 2 of 2 2011-12 RECORD: 45-22-4-5, 99 pts. WEBSITE: www.okcbarons.com

PEORIA RIVERMEN NHL AFFILIATION: St. Louis Blues HOME ICE: Peoria Civic Center – Carver Arena (9,919) GENERAL MANAGER: Kevin McDonald HEAD COACH: Dave Allison ENTERED AHL: 2005-06 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 3 of 7 2011-12 RECORD: 39-33-2-2, 82 pts. WEBSITE: www.rivermen.net

ROCHESTER AMERICANS NHL AFFILIATION: Buffalo Sabres HOME ICE: Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial (10,662) GENERAL MANAGER: Darcy Regier HEAD COACH: Ron Rolston ENTERED AHL: 1956-57 CALDER CUPS: Six (1965, 1966, 1968, 1983, 1987, 1996) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 42 of 56 2011-12 RECORD: 36-26-10-4, 86 pts. WEBSITE: www.amerks.com

ROCKFORD ICEHOGS NHL AFFILIATION: Chicago Blackhawks HOME ICE: BMO Harris Bank Center (5,767) GOVERNOR: Mark Bernard HEAD COACH: Ted Dent ENTERED AHL: 2007-08 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 3 of 5 2011-12 RECORD: 35-32-2-7, 79 pts. WEBSITE: www.icehogs.com

SAN ANTONIO RAMPAGE NHL AFFILIATION: Florida Panthers HOME ICE: AT&T Center (6,374) GENERAL MANAGER: Michael Santos HEAD COACH: Chuck Weber ENTERED AHL: 2002-03 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 3 of 10 2011-12 RECORD: 41-30-3-2, 87 pts. WEBSITE: www.sarampage.com

TEXAS STARS NHL AFFILIATION: Dallas Stars HOME ICE: Cedar Park Center (6,863) GENERAL MANAGER: Scott White HEAD COACH: Willie Desjardins ENTERED AHL: 2009-10 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 2 of 3 2011-12 RECORD: 31-40-3-2, 67 pts. WEBSITE: www.texasstarshockey.com

TORONTO MARLIES NHL AFFILIATION: Toronto Maple Leafs HOME ICE: Ricoh Coliseum (7,851) GENERAL MANAGER: Dave Nonis HEAD COACH: Dallas Eakins ENTERED AHL: 2005-06 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 4 of 7 2011-12 RECORD: 44-24-5-3, 96 pts. WEBSITE: www.marlies.ca

Eight teams in each conference will qualify for the 2013 Calder Cup Playoffs:The three division winners will be seededfirst through third in order of points, and the next five teams in order of points will be seeded fourth through eighth.

The conference quarterfinals will be best-of-five series; the conference semifinals, conference finals and Calder Cup Finals will be best-of-seven series. Teams will be re-ordered after the first round so that the highest-remaining seed plays the lowest-remaining seed.

2012-13 PLAYOFF FORMAT

2 0 1 2 - 1 3 A H L D I R E C T O R Y


®

Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender.

comerica.com

At Comerica Bank, we’re proud supporters of the Grand Rapids Griffins. Here’s to a winning 2012-13 season!

It’s what makes champions.

CBP-2780-griffins-MM-HR.pdf 1 9/18/12 9:52 AM


TOP AFFILIATEGrand Rapids Griffins (AHL)

ARENAJoe Louis Arena

Seating Capacity: 20,066INFO

Phone: (313) 394-7000www.detroitredwings.com

STANLEY CUPS1936, 1937, 1943, 1950, 1952, 1954, 1955,

1997, 1998, 2002, 2008MANAGEMENT

Ken Holland, Executive VP/General ManagerJim Nill, VP/Assistant General Manager

Ryan Martin, Asst. GM/Hockey AdministrationCOACHING STAFF

Mike Babcock, Head CoachTom Renney, Associate Coach

Bill Peters, Assistant CoachKeith McKittrick, Assistant Coach — Video

Jim Bedard, Goaltending CoachChris Osgood, Goaltending

Development CoachAaron Downey, AHL Strength and

Conditioning Coach

GRIFFINS WHO HAVE EARNED THEIR

WINGS* Justin Abdelkader, 2008-09Joakim Andersson, 2011-12

Sean Avery, 2002-03Ryan Barnes, 2003-04

Patrick Boileau, 2002-03Darryl Bootland, 2003-04

Fabian Brunnstrom, 2011-12Ty Conklin, 2011-12

Chris Conner, 2011-12Aaron Downey, 2008-09

Matt Ellis, 2006-07Cory Emmerton, 2010-11

Jonathan Ericsson, 2007-08Valtteri Filppula, 2005-06Mark Hartigan, 2007-08Darren Helm, 2007-08

Jimmy Howard, 2005-06Jiri Hudler, 2003-04

Matt Hussey, 2006-07Doug Janik, 2009-10Jakub Kindl, 2009-10

Tomas Kopecky, 2005-06Niklas Kronwall, 2003-04Marc Lamothe, 2003-04Josh Langfeld, 2006-07Brett Lebda, 2005-06Ville Leino, 2008-09

Joey MacDonald, 2006-07Donald MacLean, 2005-06Darren McCarty, 2007-08Tom McCollum, 2010-11

Derek Meech, 2006-07Kevin Miller, 2003-04

Mark Mowers, 2003-04Jan Mursak, 2010-11

Anders Myrvold, 2003-04Kris Newbury, 2009-10

Gustav Nyquist, 2011-12Kyle Quincey, 2005-06Mattias Ritola, 2007-08Jamie Rivers, 2003-04

Nathan Robinson, 2003-04Stacy Roest, 2002-03

Riley Sheahan, 2011-12 Brendan Smith, 2011-12Garrett Stafford, 2007-08

Tomas Tatar, 2010-11Jason Williams, 2002-03

* not including conditioning stints for Curtis Joseph (2003-04), Chris Osgood (2005-06), Manny

Legace (2005-06), Chris Chelios (2008-09) and Andreas Lilja (2009-10).

DETROIT RED WINGS Photos: Getty Images

FOUR MEMBERS OF THE GRIFFINS MADE THEIR NHL DEBUTS WITH THE

RED WINGS DURING THE 2011-12 SEASON

Now in their 11th season as Detroit’s affiliate – and the first of a five-year

extension that runs through 2016-17 – the Griffins have sent 48 players on to play for the Red Wings. Stars such as Jimmy Howard, Valtteri Filppula,

Darren Helm and Niklas Kronwall began their pro careers at Van Andel

Arena, which has also witnessed some of the greatest names in hockey skate

during conditioning stints and Red & White Games.

RileySheahan

Gustav Nyquist

BrendanSmith

Joakim Andersson

Three West Michigan Locations!GRAND RAPIDS 616-328-8115 | ROCKFORD 616-784-8767 | HOLLAND 616-594-7022

All Sports / All Ability Levels / Boys & Girls / Ages 7+

Speed Training / Small Group Training / Team Training / One-on-One Training

THREE�WEST�MICHIGAN�LOCATIONSGRAND RAPIDS 616-328-8115 | ROCKFORD 616-784-8767 | HOLLAND 616-594-7022

Visit us online TODAY! MVPSportsClubs.com

Featuring


Talk to almost any coach and you will discover that his coaching philosophy has been formed by the experiences and places he has encountered over the course of his career.

Jeff Blashill has zigzagged his way across the map of Michigan, collecting subconscious souvenirs from stops in Sault Ste. Marie, Big Rapids, Kalamazoo and Detroit, along with Great Lakes detours to Oxford, Ohio, and Indianapolis, Indiana.

For a young coach who won’t turn 39 until December, Blashill has accumulated miles and miles of experience that he believes will serve him well as he becomes the ninth head coach in the 17-year history of the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Born in Detroit, he spent his formative years in Sault Ste. Marie, where Jim and Rosemary Blashill had moved when he was little. They believed it would be a good place to raise their family, which included Jeff’s older sisters Lisa and Deb and, later, younger brother Tim.

The family lived on the campus of Lake Superior State University, where Jim had come to teach criminal justice after 10 years on the force of the Detroit Police Department.

Growing up in the Soo meant one thing. “When you’re a young boy, you play hockey,” Blashill said. “The reason I became a hockey player is that simple. I was extremely lucky to grow up in the Soo.”

In interviews, his father has claimed that Jeff’s interest in hockey began before he could even read, that

his devotion to the game was so serious that he didn’t like people cheering because it was distracting.

Blashill chuckles at his father’s recollection, doubting its veracity but unable to dispute its accuracy. After all, he remembers being consumed by anything remotely associated with Lakers hockey.

“I became a hockey fan before I became a hockey player, and in that sense I was fortunate because I had that exposure to a high level of hockey at a young age,” he said.

The family lived an idyllic life among cloistered houses that had once been home to army officers and staff. In the winter, the university maintenance staff built skating rinks so the boys could get out and play. “We also played some mean games of street hockey,” Blashill recalled.

Blashill became a goaltender. “I think I was the only one to volunteer in Mite hockey,” he said. “Nobody else wanted to do it, so I stuck with it.”

Although he tried other sports, Blashill primarily played hockey and baseball, and he credits his coaches for teaching him the basic values that endure in his coaching philosophy today.

“I was fortunate to have a number of great coaches, particularly John Ferroni and Bob Brown, who had a significant impact not only on my development as a hockey player but also as a human being.

“The same was true in baseball, with guys like Dan Weaver and Clyde Alaspa. They were hockey parents and baseball coaches – it was all intertwined. Sports

MICHIGAN BORN &

BREDFrom growing up in the Upper Peninsula to his various coaching stints

across the state, Jeff Blashill thinks his Michigan roots will serve him well in his

new job as the head coach of the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Story by Mark Newman

22 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS22 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

can be a great educator for young people if handled correctly, and my coaches taught me the discipline you need to be successful in life.

“Winning was certainly important, but it was secondary to the life lessons we learned.”

Discipline, of course, often starts at home, and Blashill feels he was truly blessed by his upbringing. Both of his parents worked – his mother, a nurse by training, was an administrator for the Chippewa County Health Department – and they made sure that their children knew the importance of doing your best.

“They were both very successful people who understood the balance between personal careers and family,” Blashill said. “It’s something that I’ve always tried to keep in perspective.”

Blashill was fortunate to grow up with a group of boys who were, in his words, “very talented and very driven” – seven would ultimately play hockey or baseball at the Division I level.

In Blashill’s case, the destination was Ferris State University. Lake Superior State was looking for a goalie, but John Grahame, who had a long NHL career, got the nod ahead of him. “And deservedly so,” Blashill said. “They made the right choice.”

At Ferris, Blashill had high hopes. “When I chose Ferris, I had hoped to be part of building the program into a national contender like I had watched Lake Superior do, but we didn’t have as much success.”

Blashill was the starting goalie his first two seasons until his game fell apart during his junior year.

“I was given every opportunity to succeed and I didn’t,” he said bluntly. “It was 100 percent my fault. I didn’t get the job done. I lost my starting job and didn’t play much after that.”

It was the proverbial blessing in disguise.

Sitting on the bench game after game gave Blashill an opportunity to observe the action in a way that he would never have experienced had he been playing on the ice. He might have felt like the forgotten goalie, but Ferris State head coach Bob Daniels was keeping an eye on him.

“About midway through my senior year, he came up to me and asked if I was interested in becoming a coach someday. I thought it might be something I could do – it was either coaching or something in the financial world or law school – and I accepted a position as a volunteer assistant the following year.”

Blashill became a full-time assistant after one year. He admits that the transition to coaching was much more difficult than he might have imagined.

“I went right from playing to coaching, which presents its own challenges because now you’re coaching guys who were your buddies,” he said. “As a player, coaching looks easy, but I can tell you that I learned very quickly that it wasn’t.”

Blashill was eager to make his mark, but he candidly admits now that it was a struggle. “I think I was a below-average coach at the beginning of my career,” he said. “When I see guys I coached during those early years, I almost want to apologize to them.”

He learned that it’s one thing to have some ideas in your head and quite another thing to be able to verbalize them in a way that makes sense to a player and enables them to thrive and succeed.

“Lucky for me, I had great guidance from Bob and Drew Famulak, and they showed great patience with me,” he said.

Blashill stayed at Ferris for eight years, serving as an assistant coach from 1998 to 2002. During that time, he lived in Grand Rapids, where his girlfriend (and now wife) Erica worked in marketing and advertising.

Looking back on those years in Grand Rapids, Blashill remembers attending a few Griffins games and watching John Gruden, another Ferris State product. Little did he know that he would one day stand behind the home bench at Van Andel Arena.

Blashill left Ferris for Miami University in Ohio, where he would serve as an assistant under RedHawks head coach Rico Blasi.

“I had a feeling the team at Ferris the next year was going to be good, so it was hard to leave, especially knowing that you had a lot of your life invested in it. At the same time, I also felt I needed to learn some new things that would be important to my coaching development.”

Blashill stayed at Miami for six seasons, the longest he’s stayed in any one place as a coach. “I learned a ton working with Rico and Chris Bergeron. There’s no question they gave me a whole different perspective.”

Eventually, Blashill felt the tug to become a head coach. “The opportunities in college hockey were very few at the time, and Paul Skjodt, the owner of the Indiana Ice, had contacted me about coming to be head coach,” he said.

Blashill was a goaltender at Ferris State University before becoming an assistant coach at the school.

Phot

o co

urte

sy o

f Fer

ris S

tate

Uni

vers

ity

KEYSTONE PHARMACYSpecializing In Your Health

4021 Cascade Road SEGrand Rapids, MI 49546616-974- 9792www.keystonerx.com

After tonight’s game, you can only imagine how

your team feels—sore joints and inflammation that

could keep hockey players ‘benched’ for several

days. That’s where I come in! As a compounding

pharmacist, my team and I specialize in problem

solving through custom medications, prescribed by

doctors and team trainers alike.

Are you dealing with pain? Ask your doctor if

compounded medications could help you.

David J. Miller, RPh, PhD Owner, Chief Formulation Scientist

Official Compounding Pharmacy for the

Keeìiêg You & Your Griâ âî on ïhe Ic e


In fact, Skjodt had to ask Blashill more than once. “I said ‘no’ to him three times before I finally had a feeling in my gut that I was making a mistake,” said Blashill. “I was lucky that he gave me a fourth opportunity, and this time I said ‘yes.’”

Blashill compiled a 72-43-5 mark in his two seasons in Indianapolis, leading the Ice to a franchise-record 39 wins and the USHL’s Clark Cup championship in 2008-09.

“It was an awesome coaching experience that I think will have a huge impact on my first year in the AHL,” he said. “The USHL is a development league where players want to move on to the next level, and yet it’s also a place where winning is extremely important to the individual franchises.

“Like the AHL, you have two simultaneous goals: to develop players to their maximum abilities and to win championships. You also have some of the same roster fluctuations that are present in the AHL, although not to the same extent.”

His success in Indiana brought him back to his home state when he accepted the head coaching job at Western Michigan University in 2010.

While in Kalamazoo, Blashill led the Broncos to a 19-13-10 record, doubling the team’s win total from

the previous season and leading the team to its best conference finish (4th) since 1995-96. The Broncos also played in the CCHA championship game for the first time in 25 years and earned their first NCAA Tournament berth since 1996.

For his efforts, Blashill was a finalist for CCHA Coach of the Year and was named National Coach of the Year by College Hockey News and Inside College Hockey. It looked like he was well on the way to rebuilding the Broncos program.

“One day in June, I received a phone call from (Red Wings head coach) Mike Babcock,” Blashill said. “We had no previous relationship. It was really out of the blue.”

It seemed like a chance of a lifetime.“I wanted to coach in the NHL and had told the

people at Western as much, but the opportunity just came along a lot faster than I would have previously guessed,” he said. “For someone who was born in Detroit and grew up in Michigan and was a Red Wings fan, it was far too great an opportunity to turn down.”

He left Western with mixed feelings. “It was an absolutely outstanding season with so many positive feelings that it felt like I was there more than a year,” he said. “I thought it was a tremendous start to our efforts to build Western Michigan into a national power, and I was excited for the upcoming seasons.”

In Detroit, Blashill had to hit the ground running. “There is no patience at that level – you’re there to win, and it’s a win-now level,” he said. “Mike Babcock felt I brought certain talents to the table that could combat my lack of NHL experience.”

“To say I wasn’t learning as I went would be a fallacy,” he continued. “I was very fortunate to be with a veteran team with solid leadership, and that certainly helped me in the process of trying to be an effective coach at that level.”

The Griffins’ job seems tailored for Blashill, who has proven his ability to develop and motivate young players. It’s the reason that the Red Wings’ front office – Ken Holland, Jim Nill and Ryan Martin – felt Blashill was the ideal choice to replace Curt Fraser, who was named an assistant coach with the Dallas Stars in June after four seasons in Grand Rapids.

“Ken, Jim and I had the opportunity to work with Jeff last year in Detroit, and in our opinion, Jeff is one of the brightest and most talented young coaches in all of hockey,” said Martin, assistant general manager of hockey administration for the Red Wings. “He’s energetic, he has a tremendous work ethic, he’s competitive, he’s demanding but compassionate, and he has a great passion for the game of hockey. He’s an excellent teacher and a leader. He was the perfect fit when we were looking for someone to fill this spot.”

Blashill admits that he couldn’t have imagined a better situation.

“I knew my next step in the coaching ladder was an American Hockey League head coaching job,” said Blashill at his introductory press conference in June. “If I was asked what the perfect scenario for my next job

Blashill led Western Michigan University to its first NCAA tournament berth in 15 years.Ph

oto

cour

tesy

of W

este

rn M

ichi

gan

Uni

vers

ity


would be, I would have stated that it would have been as the head coach of the Grand Rapids Griffins.”

Being the bench boss of the Griffins affords Blashill the opportunity to keep his ties with the Red Wings organization while having the chance to build a winning team in Grand Rapids.

“Every year, every place I’ve been a head coach, the goals have been the same,” Blashill said. “First, we want to maximize player development. Our promise to our players is that we’re going to do everything possible to maximize their development. Secondly, we want to win championships.”

“I believe those goals go hand in hand,” he continued. “The more our players improve over the course of the season, the better equipped we will be at the end of the year. And the more our players experience winning, the more they’ll be ready to help Detroit in their goal to win a Stanley Cup.”

Like the Griffins players, Blashill intends to relish his time in Grand Rapids.

“Coaching is a learned profession just like any other,” Blashill said. “You are the sum of your experiences, from the coaches you worked for and with, as well as your players. Over the years you can only get better.”Blashill spent last season as an assistant

coach with the Red Wings.Phot

o: G

etty

Imag

es

In Memoriam

Bryan Rufenach (1989-2012)

In honor of defenseman Bryan Rufenach, who passed away on June 4, 2012 while traveling in Switzerland, the Griffins will wear #44 stickers on their helmets throughout the 2012-13 season.

“Bryan was an up-and-coming player in our organization who improved a great deal [last] season and had a bright future ahead of him. He was a really good kid – smart and quiet – who understood his role, worked hard every day he came to the rink and was a pleasure to coach. We’re going to miss him.”

– Former Griffins coach Curt Fraser


MARK YOUR CALENDAR!2012-13 GRIFFINS PROMOTIONAL SCHEDULE

Dollar Beers and Hot Dogs: Every Friday, enjoy $1 hot dogs and $1 domestic drafts from 6-8 p.m., while supplies last.

Get in the D-ZONE: Every Friday night is a Griffins WGRD D-Zone night. Avoid the concession lines and have your $1 beers and $1 hot dogs served to you in your seats. Call (616) 774-4585 ext. 2 or visit griffinshockey.com/dzone to get your tickets today! The D-Zone seven-game pack includes games on Oct. 12, Nov. 9, Dec. 14, Jan. 4, Feb. 15, March 22 and April 19, and the 14-pack includes all Friday games with the exception of Dec. 28. A limited number of single-game four-ticket packages are also available.

College Nights: Every Friday, college students can show their ID to purchase an upper bowl ticket for $13 (or $11 in advance at The Zone) and stop by the McFadden’s concourse table to receive a free pass to the post-game party at McFadden’s.

Free Ride Friday on The Rapid: Ride the Rapid to and from any Friday game and enjoy a complimentary fare by showing your ticket to that night’s game. Visit ridetherapid.org for schedule information, routes and maps.

Wednesday is Hockey Night: After every Wednesday night home game from December through February, show your ticket to that night’s game to receive great food and drink specials at participating downtown

restaurants and bars, including Peppino’s Sports Lounge, home of the Griffins’ Wednesday post-game parties with the players. Visit griffinshockey.com/hockeynight for a list of participating restaurants.

Amway Winning Wednesdays: Every time the Griffins win at home on Wednesday, each fan in attendance will receive a free ticket to the next Wednesday game. Additionally, the first 300 fans to visit the Amway table in Section A will receive a gift. Fans can also enjoy a buy-one, get-one-free deal on a 16 oz. Pepsi all night long at any concession stand that sells fountain drinks.

Sunday is Fun Day!: Every Sunday, enjoy $1 Pepsi drinks and $1 ice cream from 3-5 p.m. and a J&H Family Stores post-game open skate.

Military Nights: Every home game this season, current members of our military can purchase up to four upper bowl tickets for $13 each (or $11 in advance at The Zone) with a valid military ID. The offer also extends to veterans who present a VA ID or discharge papers.

Library Nights: For every Sunday and Wednesday game, fans can present their Grand Rapids Public Library card or Kent District Library card at the Van Andel Arena box office on the night of the game or at The Zone anytime during the store’s regular business hours to save $7 off the price of a Lower Level Faceoff ticket (regularly $18 in advance and $20 day of game). Limit four tickets per card per person, subject to availability.

Fan 4 Packs: For select games, receive four tickets and $12 in concession cash for a great low price. Valid for games on Oct. 12; Dec. 1 and 31; Jan. 12; Feb. 2; March 9; and April 13. Visit griffinshockey.com/f4p or call (616) 774-4585 ext. 2.

Reading Goals: Children with Griff’s Reading Goals bookmarks who have completed the required three hours of reading can redeem their bookmark for two free upper level tickets to any of the following games: First Half - Nov. 23 and 25; Dec. 9, 19 and 22; Second Half - Feb. 6, 17 and 24; March 13; and April 10.

J&H Family Stores Post-Game Open Skates: Oct. 12; Nov. 25; Dec. 1, 22 and 31; Jan. 26; Feb. 23; March 9; and April 13 and 19.

Huntington Bank Post-Game Autograph Sessions: Oct. 12 and 13; Dec. 9 and 22; Jan. 12; Feb. 2 and 24; and April 13.

MOS Corner Office: Presented by Michigan Office Solutions, this section, located on the terrace level above section 118, provides the best seats in the house for groups of up to 30 people, with La-Z-Boy chairs and an array of unprecedented amenities. Call (616) 774-4585.

All promotions and dates subject to change. Sunday promotions not in effect for Dec. 30 outdoor game at Comerica Park. For more information, visit griffinshockey.com.

Oct. 12: Opening Night/LED Glow Stix

Giveaway presented by XfinityOct. 13: Griffins Calendar Giveaway

presented by Delta ImportsOct. 15: 5th Annual Pups & Pucks Fall Walk-a-Thon at Mackenzie’s Animal SanctuaryOct. 23: Griffins Booster Club Meet the Team BanquetOct. 27: Griffins Calendar Giveaway presented by Delta Imports

Nov. 7: 12th Annual Matinee Game (New 11 a.m. start)Nov. 13: Tip-A-Griffin at Uccello’s Restaurants

Nov. 23: Annual Teddy Bear Toss for Hug-A-Bears of Kent County

Nov. 25: Poster & Puzzle Giveaway presented by Milestones Child Development Center/Appearance by the ZOOperstars

Dec. 1: Holiday Ornament Giveaway presented by United Bank/Scout NightDec. 9: Salute to Heroes/Superhero Cape GiveawayDec. 22: Griffins Winter Classic Knit Hat Giveaway presented by Centennial SecuritiesDec. 30: Griffins’ First-Ever Outdoor Game at Comerica ParkDec. 31: 16th Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration presented by Fox Honda/Post-Game Fireworks/Jersey AuctionJan. 12: Griffins Scarf Giveaway presented by MetroPCS/Mascot Mania

Jan. 12-13: 11th Annual Great Skate Winterfest at Rosa Parks CircleJan. 26: Griffins Gnome Giveaway presented by Comerica Bank/Jersey AuctionFeb. 2: Gustav Nyquist Bobblehead Giveaway presented by Lake Michigan Credit UnionFeb. 4: Griffins Booster Club Silent AuctionFeb. 12: 8th Annual Griffins/Sled Wings Sled Hockey Game at Griff’s IceHouseFeb. 17: Faith & Family Night/Appearance by The ConquerorsFeb. 19: Reds, Whites & Brews at the Goei CenterFeb. 23: Francis Pare Bobblehead Giveaway/Appearance by The Fur CircusFeb. 24: 2nd Annual Purple Community Game presented by the Van Andel Institute/Jersey AuctionMarch 9: Star Wars Night presented by Consumers EnergyMarch 22: ‘90s Night presented by J&H Family Stores/Jersey AuctionApril 13: Fan Vote Bobblehead Giveaway presented by Michigan Office SolutionsApril 15: Griffins Booster Club Awards BanquetApril 19: Season Finale presented by Huntington Bank/Appearance by Super Fan Cameron Hughes/Jersey Auction

S E A S O N - L O N G P R O M O T I O N S

Oct. 15

Nov. 13

Nov. 25

Dec. 9

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!


Going from walk-on to captain of the Michigan Wolverines, East Grand Rapids’ Luke Glendening defied the odds. His next goal: playing pro hockey in his hometown.

Luke Glendening has never been the biggest, strongest or most talented hockey player on any team, but few have matched his desire and determination.

Michigan head coach Red Berenson, who played 17 seasons in the NHL and has sent dozens of players to the NHL over the course of 28 seasons with the Wolverines, said Glendening is the type of player who excels when the odds are against him.

“Sometimes when a kid isn’t as high-profile, doesn’t get drafted, doesn’t get all the accolades of other players, he ends up being a harder worker, having a better attitude than kids with more talent,” Berenson said.

“Some players thrive on it and it becomes part of their mantra. Luke is one of those players. You never have to remind him to work harder.”

Ask East Grand Rapids High School football coach Peter Stuursma about Glendening and he will ask you if you have two hours to listen.

“Luke has the ‘it’ factor,” Stuursma said. “You can’t explain ‘it.’ You can’t write a Ph.D dissertation on ‘it.’ But Luke has ‘it.’

“He’s truly a one-in-a-million kid. If I had 11 players like Luke, the Chicago Bears wouldn’t have played us. He’s a gifted athlete who puts himself in a position to compete because he never stops working.”

“It” is apparently in Glendening’s genes.His father, Tom, now a production scheduler at

Amway, was the starting fullback for Bowling Green in the early 1980s. His mother, Leslie, a former cheerleader at Bowling Green, is one of the founders of the Hearts in Step Christian Dance Academy.

His younger brother, Joe, was an All-American as a junior running back at Division-II Hillsdale College last fall, racking up 1,604 rushing yards and 31 total touchdowns. His little sister, Mackenzie, now 19, was active in dance before attending Grand Valley State University.

“Luke had lots of energy as a young boy,” Tom recalls. “He always had a ball or stick in his hand.”

Story by Mark Newman

Glendening’s East Grand Rapids

football highlights


His energy, it seemed, was almost endless. His father sometimes worried that Luke might be pushing himself too hard.

He remembers one day in particular when he was still coaching his son in hockey. Luke was 8 or 9 at the time.

“We had a morning hockey scrimmage and only seven kids showed up, so Luke was on the ice most of the time. After hockey, we went straight onto the football field and the temperature was like 85 degrees that day. He had a 80-yard run and he was like the horse that won’t quit. Meanwhile, I’m thinking, I’m going to kill this kid if I’m not careful.”

Quit was not part of Luke’s vocabulary.As the junior starting fullback for East’s football team,

Glendening’s job was to be the lead blocker for senior star running back Kelvin Grady. For the last five weeks of the team’s state title run, Glendening played on one good leg, having suffered a torn meniscus in his knee.

“He’d play on Friday or Saturday and he’d rip off 150 yards, score three touchdowns, knock down 25 people paving the way for Kelvin, have an interception, a couple of pass breakups and 12 tackles, and then he’d limp off the field,” Stuursma said.

“Hockey players are tough in general, but he’s just so tough and so competitive. He’ll give you that ‘aw, shucks’ attitude, like he’s just doing his job, but put him into a competitive situation and he turns into an absolute werewolf.”

Still, few colleges seemed interested in the 5-foot-10, 185-pound kid because no one had bothered to measure his heart. He had a couple of walk-on offers to play football at Wheaton and Hope, two Division-III Christian colleges, but he really wanted to play hockey.

The Glendenings decided to keep Luke’s options open by sending him to Hotchkiss, a Connecticut prep academy that was favored by Ivy League schools like Penn, which indicated it might have a spot for him on its football team.

At Hotchkiss, Luke never heard from Penn or, for that matter, any other school. Football season came and went, as did the better part of the hockey season. He began to question his decision.

“I felt like I had wasted a year in my life trying to pursue something that was never going to happen,” he said. “I got really homesick and wanted to come home. I thought about quitting, but I didn’t. I stuck it out.”

Family and friends offered words of encouragement. There were countless phone calls; one person even sent him tapes of his brother’s football games in an effort to raise his spirits.

“They say it takes a village to raise a kid, and Luke’s really been blessed to have the support of the whole community, from his coaches to our extended family and friends,” his father said. “It felt like everybody was rooting for his success.”

Glendening was a three-sport athlete (football, hockey and baseball) at East Grand Rapids High School.

Phot

o: G

rand

Rap

ids P

ress

/MLi

ve


Luke smiles at his recollection of the time, which he now calls one of the best memories in his life – a life that was about to change.

“After the last game of my hockey season, my coach said, ‘You sure picked a good game to play well. A coach from Michigan was here and he seemed interested.’ I thought he was kidding.”

Billy Powers, an assistant at Michigan, came away impressed enough that Michigan offered to make him a preferred walk-on, which is the equivalent of a one-year tryout.

Luke still had to make a name for himself. (Berenson, in fact, called him Brandon on the first day of camp.) Asked if there is one word to describe his feelings about pulling on the block M for the first time, he says it would be “overwhelmed.”

“I vividly remember calling my dad after the first day and telling him that I had so much new equipment on that I felt like the Tin Man. I was so excited and nervous that guys had to tell me to calm down.”

It didn’t take Luke long to make an impression on the coaches at Michigan.

“Right off the bat, you could see that this kid worked hard,” Berenson said. “I had not seen him play, so I wasn’t sure how much he would end up playing here, but the more we watched him in practice, the more we liked him. He was more than competitive and he picked up our team systems really well.Glendening was named the CCHA Best Defensive

Forward during his senior season at Michigan.

Phot

o co

urte

sy o

f Uni

vers

ity o

f Mic

higa

n


OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

SAVOR...

The 5/3 Bank Vault Restaurant

and Bar is located next to the

main entrance of the Van Andel

Arena. Open during events and

Griffins games, our bar offers

a wide selection of local beers,

Michigan wines and hand crafted

cocktails. Come in and enjoy our

house smoked meats and special-

ty sandwiches in the restaurant’s

casual dining atmosphere.

For reservations or inquiries

call 616-742-6453 or

email [email protected]

HAPPY HOUR from 5-6pm during

Griffins games. $1 off draft and

bottled beers and $2 off of appetizers.

R E S T A U R A N T & B A R

w w w . s a v o r s m g g r a n d r a p i d s . c o m


fox powersports

“Once we got him into a couple of games, his physicality and strength showed. Even though he was a freshman, he played strong and he played hard. He was a conscientious player without the puck, and we learned early to trust him defensively, and his game grew from there.”

Luke was a regular by his sophomore season, and as a junior he was made a co-captain.

“He’s a great leader and a good two-way player,” Berenson said. “He blocks shots and he’s a great penalty killer. He’s just a great team player. He is very coachable and always has a great attitude. He’s one of those kids who does everything the right way and does it all the way.”

By his senior year, Luke showed that he deserved every accolade he would earn as the Wolverines’ captain.

“He’s such a serious kid; his commitment was off-the-charts,” Berenson said. “He was around other players who trained hard, too, but he led our team in work ethic during his senior year.

“He was a leader by example – every practice, every game, every shift. If we were doing 25-yard sprints or a mile run off the ice, he was always at the front of the pack. He just pushed hard. Other players would look at

him and go, ‘Wow, this guy is something special.’ That was the way he led.

“Everyone who has ever had Luke has seen something special in him, and hopefully that will follow him at the next level.”

Berenson won’t guarantee that Luke will succeed at the NHL level, but he would be the last to bet against his former captain.

“You can never know. I didn’t know if he would even play here at Michigan, and look at what he did. There’s a big question mark about the next level, but Luke is the kind of kid who will compete and do what it takes to find a role.

“He’s not going to start in the NHL, but it wouldn’t surprise me if he worked his way up. His first challenge is to be able to play at the American League level. It’s different than the college game, so he has to get that sorted out in terms of the pace, skill level, and so on. But he’ll find a way to make

it work. I wouldn’t be surprised if in the next year or two he gets called up for a game.”

Of course, the Glendenings are thrilled by the possibility of watching their son play in his hometown as a Griffin.

SPECSL/S: None DOC SIZE: 4.875” x 3.8125”B: None G: None

TEAMCreative: Jean Batthany None

Acct: Jackie Ferrer

Prod/Traf: Angel Pabon Neal Sherman

Studio: Kevin Tinsley

MEDIA / PRINT INFOPubs: GRIFFITI MAGAZINE Media: Magazine

Line Screen: None

Printed: 8-30-2011 11:21 AM @ None

COLORS Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

RCS_RAP_P10642_GM Client: Ruth’s Chris Steak House WO: FRAME ‘ GUYS NIGH OUT’ 1/2P4C GRIFFIT MAGAZINE

IMAGESRCS_Bkgd_DarkRed_C_400.tif (CMYK; 43%, -43%; 930 ppi, -931 ppi; SuperStudio:ART:MNH:Ruthschris:Red Background_DARK:RCS_Bkgd_DarkRed_C_400.tif)RC_GuysNightOut_C_600.tif (CMYK; 24.37%, 25.49%; 2462 ppi, 2353 ppi; SuperStudio:ART:MNH:Ruthschris:People:Happy Hour:Guys Night Out:RC_GuysNightOut_C_600.tif)RCS_Hero_LOGO_Transp_C_300.tif (CMYK; 34.51%; 869 ppi; SuperStudio:ART:MNH:Ruthschris:Steak Wedge_LOGO LOCKUP:RCS_Hero_LOGO_Transp_C_300.tif)RCSH_USP_4CP_075.ai (114.11%; SuperStudio:Logos:Ruths_Chris:_Official_Logos:SmallSpace:With_Stamp:RCSH_USP_4CP_075.ai)

FONTSTimes RegularBank Gothic BT Light, MediumHelvetica BoldTrade Gothic Condensed No. 18

200 Varick St. New York, NY 10014 : Phone 212-805-7500

PATH: M.P_MECHANICALS:Volumes:M.P_MECHANICALS:Ruths_Chris:RCS:RAP:P10642:RCS_RAP_P10642_GM

enjoy a

great guys night out over

steakand a few beers.

TAG: 9pt

Grand Rapids | 616.776.6426Inside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel | ruthschris.com

S:4.875”

S:3.8125”

“He was a leader by example – every

practice, every game, every shift. If we were doing

25-yard sprints or a mile run off the ice, he was always at the front of the pack.”


Bundle up and hit the slopes, find your center while you unwind at the

Crystal Spa, or cozy up with your loved ones all in the same place. The

most wonderful thing about Crystal Mountain is the variety we offer,

from family-oriented adventures to grown-up getaways, you can be

sure to make our Mountain yours.

CRYSTALMOUNTAIN.COM | 800.YOUR.MTN

ADVENTURES&

GETAWAYS


Like a goalie. . . We protect what matters most. Lighthouse Group and Auto-Owners Insurance have been insuring

hockey fans since 1916.For all your l i fe, home, car, and business insurance

needs, contact us today!

800-344-3531www.lighthousegroup.net

“It would be a dream-come-true,” said his mother. “I remember taking him to Jolly Roger and Belknap, and I would hold him up (on the edge of the dashers) and he’d stand there and just watch. I think one of his first words was ‘zamboni.’ He just loved hockey.”

But Luke is doing his best to be honest about his chances. He knows that he could easily become the odd man out in Grand Rapids, especially with the NHL lockout pushing some players back into the AHL.

“All I can do is put my best foot forward,” he said. “I’m excited to get out there and see where I stand. I’m excited for the opportunity and if it happens, that’s awesome.

“But I’m also trying to be realistic. I might have to swallow my pride and go to Toledo, and that’s okay. I’m still going to be playing hockey, and I’m going to work hard to show that I belong at the next level.”

Stuursma, for one, likes his chances.

“Luke has put himself in the position to have this opportunity, and he will do everything to take advantage of it,” Stuursma said. “When the odds are against him, you can be sure that he’s ready to go.”

Watching their son play for the Griffins would be a dream-come-true for Tom and Leslie Glendening.


MON, OCT. 15, 20124:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Mackenzie's Animal Sanctuary 8935 Thompson Road / Lake Odessa, MI 48849

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:MEET THE 2012-13 GRIFFINS TEAM • WALK-A-THON

BBQ LIVE MUSIC • HAY RIDES • PETTING ZOOAUCTIONS PET FRIENDLY MARKET • BAKE SALE

CARICATURE ARTISTS • ARTS & CRAFTS • AND MORE!

YOU’RE INVITED!

MAC

5TH ANNUAL FALL WALK-A-THON

PRESENTED BY:

5 - 8:30 PM

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:MEET THE 2012-13 GRIFFINS TEAM • WALK-A-THON

BBQ • LIVE MUSIC • HAY RIDES • PETTING ZOOAUCTIONS • PET FRIENDLY MARKET • BAKE SALE

CARICATURE ARTISTS • ARTS & CRAFTS • AND MORE!


ONE DAY AT A TIME

Francis Pare wants to maintain a singular focus this season: helping the Griffins drive toward a playoff spot.

When Francis Pare moved past Jamie Tardif last season to claim second place on the Griffins’ all-time goal-scoring list behind Michel Picard, it was an accomplishment the Quebec native never would have imagined four years earlier.

Pare came to Grand Rapids in 2008 as an undrafted free agent, looking for an opportunity to make his mark in the pros after recording 54 goals during his final season of junior hockey with Chicoutimi of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

“If you told me that first year that I would become the second-leading scorer for the Griffins, I wouldn’t have believed you,” Pare said as he prepared for his fifth season with the team.

In fact, Pare remembers doubting whether he would even get a chance to play in Grand Rapids.

“I didn’t play my first couple of games, and I was mentally struggling a little bit,” he recalled. “I thought, ‘What’s going to happen to me? Maybe I’ll get sent down to the ECHL, and I won’t be able to show what I can do.’”

Luck, however, was on his side.“When (former Griffins coach) Curt Fraser gave me

a chance, I took it,” Pare said, detailing how he had a goal and an assist in his first game in a Griffins uniform, a 7-3 victory in Toronto on Oct. 19, 2008. “After that, it was just a matter of confidence.”

Pare admits that he watched his rise in the Griffins’

Story and photos by Mark Newman


record book with mixed feelings. “I’m so proud to wear the jersey every night... but I’ve been in Grand Rapids a long time.”

He remembers sitting next to Tardif after the latter had passed Kip Miller and Derek King on the goals list. “He said, ‘This is no good. It means I’m still not playing in the NHL.’ I was kind of laughing about it, and now I’m in the same position.”

Pare has no aspirations of ever catching Picard, who retired with nearly double the number of goals (158 to Pare’s 80). “I still want to be part of the Red Wings,” he stated matter-of-factly.

He is in the last year of a two-year contract and knows that what happens this season will go a long way to determining his future in the Red Wings organization or elsewhere.

Pare finished strong last season, registering 22 points in his last 18 games, but he has struggled with consistency. His goal totals are 24, 16, 24 and 16 the past seasons, but he has endured long stretches without putting the puck into the net.

He hopes to take a different approach this season after running into Martin Russell, who was his coach in Midget AAA during the 2003-04 season, when he had 52 goals in 38 games.

“I saw him while I was working out this summer, and he said I should stay focused on every single day,” Pare said. “That way you don’t worry about the past and you won’t look too far ahead.”

Pare speculates that he has been putting too much pressure on himself, especially when the goals aren’t coming and the stress of a scoreless stretch starts to wear on his psyche.

“I want to work on being more relaxed, just taking

one day at a time,” he said. “If you look at 76 games, the big picture is too much. I want to approach each day the same way, whether it’s a practice, a workout or a game.

“I need to be ready to do the job every single day this year.”

Having played 295 games in a Griffins jersey, Pare will be classified as a veteran for the 2012-13 campaign.

“There are going to be new kids coming into camp, and it’s going to be pretty cool to be one of the older guys,” he said. “But it’s kind of weird. I’m still only 25 years old and I’m going to be seen as an old guy. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

In reality, he doesn’t expect that being in a position of leadership will make much of a difference in his personality.

“I’m not going to change,” he said. “I’m going to go through the same old routines, be nice to everybody, play jokes on the guys. I’m not a big talker. I want to show it on the ice.”

By taking one day at a time, Pare hopes to avoid the slow starts that have plagued him two of the last three seasons.

Last season, he didn’t score a goal until the 13th game. Three seasons ago, his first goal of the year came in his 22nd game.

“I can’t start with no goals in 10 or 20 games – that’s not good for me or my teammates – that’s terrible,” he said. “We need a good start and to get some points as a team early.”

Frankly, Pare is tired of long summers, even though he enjoys spending time with family and friends and playing a lot of golf.

In 2009-10, Pare became the first player in franchise history to lead the Griffins in plus/minus in multiple seasons, let alone consecutive campaigns.


America’s Choice for “Squabble Free” Fun!

www.gameroomguys.com

“It’s been a pain – the summers have been way too long,” he said. “It’s been three years now that we haven’t made the playoffs and that’s enough. It doesn’t make sense at all, especially with all of the good players we have. It’s crazy.”

Pare genuinely feels that the Griffins should have been playoff-bound last season.

“We came close but not close enough,” he said. “With all of the skill on our team, we should have found ourselves in the playoffs, not fighting for a spot in the playoffs. We just didn’t play well enough as a team.”

Serving as a “black ace” with Detroit during the Stanley Cup Playoffs the last two years was gratifying for Pare, but even though he was generally happy with his performance, it still left something to be desired.

“I think I played well, but not good enough to get a callup to the NHL, so it wasn’t good enough,” he said. “I’m not going to be satisfied with anything less.”

Pare realizes that he still has a lot of hard work ahead if ever wants to convince the Red Wings to give him an opportunity to skate at Joe Louis Arena.

“I’m in the AHL for a reason,” he said. “Obviously, I’ve got some things to work on, things that I need to improve if I want to put myself in a position to be called up to the NHL.”

So he will continue to work on his defensive play and being more patient with the puck, while focusing on those little things that can help the Griffins win games this season.

“It’s kind of sad that (coach) Fraser left (to become an assistant with the Dallas Stars), but I’m ready to work for someone new,” Pare said. “I’m ready to prove that I will give everything I’ve got.”

Pare served as a “black ace” for the Red Wings during the Stanley Cup Playoffs the past two seasons.

At Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, we believe that being physically

active and eating right are vital to a long, healthy life — especially for

your family. It’s why we fund programs that encourage families and

educate kids to eat right, stay fit and make smart choices about health.

And why we offer so many different health plans. Choices that allow

you to get exactly the right coverage for you and your family.

Keep your team healthy.

bcbsm.comBlue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Leading Michigan to a healthier future.SM

BC071150 GR Graffiti Mag_F1.indd 1 9/23/11 12:41 PM


ADAM ALMQUIST Defenseman 5-11, 173 lbs. Born: 2/27/91

Huskvarna, Sweden

JOAKIM ANDERSSON Forward

6-2, 207 lbs. Born: 2/5/89

Munkedal, Sweden

LOUIS-MARC AUBRY Forward

6-4, 208 lbs. Born: 11/11/91

Arthabaska, Que.

CHAD BILLINS Defenseman 5-10, 182 lbs. Born: 5/26/89

Marysville, Mich.

GLEASON FOURNIER Defenseman 6-0, 191 lbs. Born: 9/8/91

Rimouski, Que.

LUKE GLENDENING Forward

5-11, 200 lbs. Born: 4/28/89

Grand Rapids, Mich.

TRISTON GRANT Forward

6-1, 218 lbs. Born: 2/2/84

Neepawa, Man.

TOMAS JURCO Forward

6-2, 195 lbs. Born: 12/28/92 Kosice, Slovakia

MITCH CALLAHAN Forward

6-0, 200 lbs. Born: 8/17/91 Whittier, Calif.

WILLIE COETZEE Forward

5-10, 185 lbs. Born: 11/7/90

Johannesburg, South Africa

BRENNAN EVANS Defenseman 6-4, 230 lbs. Born: 1/6/82

North Battlefield, Sask.

LANDON FERRARO Forward

6-0, 179 lbs. Born: 8/8/91

Trail, B.C.

2012-13ROSTER

5 18 22 14

44815

20 2310

29

28

It comes by playing the exciting games from the Michigan Lottery. First, it’s good for our kids, because all the profits — $727 million last year — go to the state School Aid Fund to help public schools. It’s also good for the 10,000 retailers who sell Lottery tickets and earned $200 million in commissions last year. And for all the players who shared $1.34 billion in prizes, winning sure is good! In fact, over 95 cents of every Lottery dollar goes back into the community as prizes, retailer commissions and contributions to public schools. The Michigan Lottery. All across the state, good things happen.

www.michiganlottery.comIf you bet more than you can afford to lose, you’ve got a problem. Call 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help.

Together, we put up some good stats.

Photo by M

ark New

man

XLIV Grand Rapids GRIFFINS


ANDREJ NESTRASIL Forward

6-2, 210 lbs. Born: 2/2/91

Prague, Czech Republic

MAX NICASTRO Defenseman 6-3, 225 lbs. Born: 3/2/90

Thousand Oaks, Calif.

GUSTAV NYQUIST Forward

5-11, 185 lbs. Born: 9/1/89

Halmstad, Sweden

NATHAN PAETSCH Defenseman 6-0, 195 lbs.

Born: 3/30/83 LeRoy, Sask.

FRANCIS PARE Forward

5-10, 191 lbs. Born: 6/30/87

Lemoyne, Que.

TREVOR PARKES Forward

6-2, 202 lbs. Born: 5/13/91 Fort Erie, Ont.

JORDAN PEARCE Goaltender 6-1, 195 lbs.

Born: 10/10/86 Anchorage, Alaska

BRENT RAEDEKE Forward

6-0, 195 lbs. Born: 5/29/90 Regina, Sask.

BRIAN LASHOFF Defenseman 6-3, 216 lbs.

Born: 7/16/90 Albany, N.Y.

JOEY MacDONALD Goaltender 6-0, 198 lbs. Born: 2/7/80 Pictou, N.S.

TOM McCOLLUM Goaltender 6-2, 215 lbs.

Born: 12/7/89 Sanborn, N.Y.

PETR MRAZEK Goaltender 6-1, 187 lbs.

Born: 2/14/92 Ostrava, Czech Republic

4

34

17 1311

303132

9 21 1

19 7 27

12

RILEY SHEAHAN Forward

6-2, 212 lbs. Born: 12/7/91

St. Catharines, Ont.

BRENDAN SMITH Defenseman 6-2, 204 lbs. Born: 2/8/89 Mimico, Ont.

TOMAS TATAR Forward

5-10, 186 lbs. Born: 12/1/90 Ilava, Slovakia

42 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 4342 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS


Kids who play hockey want to learn to improve, and the Griffins Youth Foundation wants to make certain that’s not all they learn. Established in 1995, the foundation strives to enhance the lives of area youth by providing opportunities to play hockey and ice-related sports, but the organization also seeks to promote academic excellence, community involvement and healthy lifestyles among the kids it serves. In recognition that academic success ultimately benefits a youngster more in the long run, the foundation is making education a greater priority, not only in its mission statement (where it is now listed first) but also in practice. “Our focus has always been hockey and it will continue to be the driving force behind the foundation, but we recognize that we need to emphasize academic excellence for the good of the kids,” said Bob Kaser, Griffins vice president of

community relations and broadcasting, who serves as the president of the Griffins Youth Foundation. “As much as we would love to see a couple of the kids in our program develop and earn hockey scholarships, we realize the chances of that happening are not very good. In the meantime, we want to do what we can to make sure we’re looking after the well-being of our kids by doing more educationally.” To help steer the organization in the right direction, the foundation sought an experienced educator who could provide guidance and advice as a member of its board of directors. “We’re very happy to welcome aboard Dr. Eric Nelson,” Kaser said. “We look forward to implementing many of his exciting ideas, which are based on his many years of experience, both as a teacher and administrator,” Kaser said.

STUDENTS OF THE GAMEThe Griffins Youth Foundation is expanding educational opportunities within its hockey program to get more kids thinking about college.

ACTIVA 4G

Coverage and services not available everywhere. Compatible MetroPCS 4GLTE device required; not all features or plans available with all devices. MetroPCS features and services for personal use only. WiFi usage does not count toward your monthly data allotment. Use of some content, features, or services may incur separate, additional charges and/or require a qualifying data plan or access to Wi-Fi connection. Abnormal Usage: Service may be slowed, suspended, terminated, or restricted for misuse, abnormal use, interference with our network or ability to provide quality service to other users, or roaming usage predominance. See store or metropcs.com for coverage, details and Terms and Conditions of Service (including arbitration provision) for additional information. The AndroidTM robot is reproduced or modified from work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License. AndroidTM is a trademark of Google Inc. Copyright © 2012 MetroPCS Wireless, Inc.

Update your status, go shopping, upload and download files at blazing fast

4GLTE speeds. Access the latest apps and widgets in a flash. You’ll get the coverage

you need at the lowest prices, with no annual contract to slow you down.

Make the move. Visit your local MetroPCS store today.

Grand Rapids4545 28th St. S.E.

Kentwood, MI 49512

Smartphones, smart move.Get the speed you need with 4G.LTE

metropcs.com877-BUY-MPCS

12MPMI128_LFA_Griffiti_Mag_Ad_R1.indd 1 9/10/12 3:56 PM


ACTIVA 4G

Coverage and services not available everywhere. Compatible MetroPCS 4GLTE device required; not all features or plans available with all devices. MetroPCS features and services for personal use only. WiFi usage does not count toward your monthly data allotment. Use of some content, features, or services may incur separate, additional charges and/or require a qualifying data plan or access to Wi-Fi connection. Abnormal Usage: Service may be slowed, suspended, terminated, or restricted for misuse, abnormal use, interference with our network or ability to provide quality service to other users, or roaming usage predominance. See store or metropcs.com for coverage, details and Terms and Conditions of Service (including arbitration provision) for additional information. The AndroidTM robot is reproduced or modified from work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License. AndroidTM is a trademark of Google Inc. Copyright © 2012 MetroPCS Wireless, Inc.

Update your status, go shopping, upload and download files at blazing fast

4GLTE speeds. Access the latest apps and widgets in a flash. You’ll get the coverage

you need at the lowest prices, with no annual contract to slow you down.

Make the move. Visit your local MetroPCS store today.

Grand Rapids4545 28th St. S.E.

Kentwood, MI 49512

Smartphones, smart move.Get the speed you need with 4G.LTE

metropcs.com877-BUY-MPCS

12MPMI128_LFA_Griffiti_Mag_Ad_R1.indd 1 9/10/12 3:56 PM

Nelson is senior director of school quality for the Grand Rapids-based National Heritage Academies (NHA), one of the fastest growing public charter school management companies in the United States. NHA currently has 74 schools in nine states, including Colorado, Indiana, Georgia, Louisiana, Michigan, North Carolina, New York, Ohio and Wisconsin. Nelson oversees 24 schools for NHA, which partners with local school boards to build and manage no-cost public charter schools. Founded on the four pillars of academic excellence, moral focus, parental partnership and student responsibility, NHA schools are designed to eliminate the achievement gap among social-economic strata and provide public school choice to families so that their children are prepared for success in high school, college and beyond. “I’m super excited on both professional and personal levels for this opportunity,” Nelson said. “I’m thrilled that the Griffins Youth Foundation has

decided to highlight the educational component of their mission, an effort that mirrors our work at National Heritage Academies. “From a personal standpoint, I grew up in very

poor circumstances and never had the opportunity to play hockey, so for me, it’s going to be a pleasure to work with the Griffins Youth Foundation in light of all that it does to give kids a chance to participate.” The foundation’s renewed emphasis on education began a couple of years ago when it began offering annual scholarships that award $5,000 to a pair of students to

attend the college or university of their choice. In addition, the foundation has forged partnerships with area universities to allow kids to visit college campuses and get exposed to higher education. The past two years have seen kids make visits to Ferris State University and Davenport University.

“Our approach is the

‘whole child,’ which parallels

the efforts of the Griffins,”

Nelson said. “Playing hockey

is fun, but we need to be realistic

and encourage kids and their

families to think about college.”

Griffins Youth Foundation families visit Ferris State University.

Cornerstone University, meanwhile, has pledged financial support as well as the possibility of student interns to act as mentors or tutors. “Whether it’s a community college or a four-year university, we want to make sure that our kids know that the pursuit of an education beyond high school is a real possibility,” Kaser said. “We want to open doors for the kids who play in our program.” Getting kids to improve their reading is an essential step, according to Nelson. “There is a high correlation between reading level and a student’s ability to get into college and ultimately be successful,” Nelson said. “For younger kids, it’s critical to emphasize reading. For older kids, it’s important to prepare them to be college-ready.” Nelson said the foundation offers a great platform to encourage students to start thinking about college. “When you tell students that the difference in lifetime earnings between a high school dropout and a college graduate will be $1 million, it gets their attention,” Nelson said. To assist younger students in their efforts to improve their reading, the foundation is looking into expanding its library. Older students, meanwhile, will benefit from practice tests that will help them prepare for the ACT test. Nelson has seen what can happen when schools make a commitment to help students prepare for high school, college and beyond. In the last five

years, NHA schools ranked in the top 25 percent of U.S. schools for academic growth. “Our approach is the ‘whole child,’ which parallels the efforts of the Griffins,” Nelson said. “Playing hockey is fun, but we need to be realistic and encourage kids and their families to think about college.” To implement the new education initiatives, the foundation has enlisted the help of Wendy Foy as its new education coordinator. “We want to make sure the emphasis is still on fun,” Kaser said. “We don’t want their Saturdays to be an extension of school. We want to get kids excited about reading.” In addition to the emphasis on academic excellence, the foundation will also promote community involvement through participation in such projects as Adopt-A-Highway and the Grand River Cleanup. To encourage healthy lifestyles, the foundation is making available a pamphlet from the Center For Physical Rehabilitation. The pamphlet contains information regarding the treatment of basic sports injuries, concussion signs, and nutrition for young athletes. “We want the foundation to serve as a great resource for kids and their families,” Kaser said. “Hockey will always be our primary vehicle, but we want to reach out to help kids improve their educational experience and, ultimately, become active, healthy contributors to our community.”


• Official Kids Club t-shirt• Free ticket to a Griffins game• Members-only Kids Club parties• Monthly newsletters and contests • Only $15 to join• Free VIP wristband• And more!

For more information, visit the Grif-

fins Kids Club Booth located at the

top of the stairs near section 101,

go to griffinshockey.com, email

[email protected]

or call (616) 774-4585 ext. 3047.

JOIN THE GRIFFINSKIDS CLUB!

Membership for kids 12 and under includes:

Official Chiropractor of the Grand Rapids Griffins

Have you beenchecked

lately?

Hudsonville

Call today to be checked too!616.662.1191

www.lifefamilychiro.com



Mitch Callahan knows his role and feels lucky anytime he’s asked to play the enforcer.


We’ve Got a Great Save Percentage.

LMCU.org • (800 or 616) 242-9790 Federally insured by NCUA

Our high-yield Max Checking account offers one of the best rates you can find anywhere! Call, click or visit us today!

Graffiti 2011-2012.pdf 1 9/16/2011 10:44:35 AM

When Mitch Callahan led the Los Angeles Junior Kings in scoring at age 16, he thought it might be the start of something good.

It was only Midget AAA hockey, but it was a turning point for the Whittier-born boy who grew up enjoying skateboarding, surfing and the sand of sunny Southern California beaches.

“That was the summer I really put my nose to the grindstone and thought I might be able to make a future out of hockey,” said Callahan, who subsequently earned an invitation to the training camp of the Kelowna Rockets in the Western Hockey League.

Callahan eventually made the Rockets as a walk-on and would become the team’s most improved player.

Although he posted respectable point totals during his three years in junior hockey, it wasn’t Callahan’s goal-scoring abilities that impressed people. It was the things he did when he didn’t have the puck that made him special, according to his Kelowna coach.

“We wanted him to be good at both ends of the ice, to work harder on his defensive game while maintaining the edge and toughness he plays with,” Ryan Huska told the Kelowna Capital News.

Callahan’s gritty style caught the attention of the Detroit Red Wings, who decided to select the young forward with their sixth-round pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

Although not the biggest prospect – at 6-foot, 200-pounds, Callahan can hardly be called imposing – he is a hard-nosed kid who is willing to stand up not only for himself but also for his teammates.

Huska said Callahan learned his limitations and became a better player because of it.

“The difference was, he began fighting on his own terms and when the team needed him to, not whenever anyone asked him to—which is what he did a lot as a rookie.

“The Wings obviously like what Mitch is all about – an agitator with skill who everyone wants to have on their team, but nobody wants to play against,” said Huska.


“A good man always knows his limitations.”

– spoken by Clint Eastwood in his role as “Dirty” Harry Callahan


That’s the essence of Callahan, who was dubbed “Dirty Harry” long before he even knew who Clint Eastwood was. In the jargon of the cop film series, he was the “punk,” the kid who wasn’t afraid of anyone or anything.

If Callahan has a chip on his shoulder, it was always there.“I’d like to think it started the day I was born,” he said. “It just comes out naturally.”

He may be right. He was actually thrown out of daycare. “Some kid stole my ball, and I punched him and got kicked out,” Callahan said.

Having a brother was always at the top of his Christmas wish list, but it never happened, so Callahan had to take out his aggressions elsewhere.

“I remember the first year of playing ice hockey when I was eight and me and this kid got into it,” said Callahan, who started playing roller hockey at age six.

Few dared call him out, but the reality was that most saw Callahan as the runt. “They always said I was too small or I wasn’t big enough,” he said. “My dad was my biggest fan. He told me not to give up, to keep working at it and everything would eventually pan out.”

Mike Callahan was a plumber by trade and a Canadian by roots, so there was little question that his only son would play hockey, even after moving to California so that Mitch’s mom, Kelly, could be closer to her three sisters.

“A lot of people in my high school didn’t even know what hockey was,” said Callahan, who

attended La Habra High School, just west of Whittier.

“None of my friends really played, but over the years I played with the same group of guys, from age 6 to 16, so I think I probably developed better friendships with my teammates in hockey than my friends from school,” he said.

Callahan is still friends with a lot of his former teammates, noting that his first real hockey fight was against Taylor Aronson, a Nashville Predators prospect currently playing for the AHL’s Milwaukee Admirals. They’re now good buddies.

“We were both trying to make a Midget AAA team,” Callahan recalled. “It was a pretty terrible fight. I don’t think either one of us won.”

Callahan earned a reputation for yappin’ and scrappin’ in the WHL, where he ranked near the top of the heap for most fighting majors his first two seasons.

Coming into the AHL last season presented a new challenge, as he had to learn to fight men, not boys, including many who were bigger and stronger than he was.

“When I was in juniors, I was one of the stronger guys, but at the next level, I was one of the weaker guys and had to work to get stronger so that I wouldn’t get pushed around or beat up.”

He appeared in 48 games with the Griffins in 2011-12, tallying six goals and three assists with 103 penalty minutes.


“It was a good learning experience for me,” he said. “I didn’t play a whole lot, but as a 20-year-old playing my first year in the league, I had to pay my dues. You’ve got to earn your ice time.”

Callahan knows it’s highly unlikely that he will ever lead his team in scoring again, so it’s important that he do the things that will earn the respect of his coaches and teammates.

“It’s doing the little stuff, providing energy, making the big hit or blocking a big shot,” he said. “It’s all about showing the guys that I’m willing to do whatever it takes.”

He would like to build a reputation as the type of player who would go through a wall for a teammate. If it means dropping the gloves and playing the role of enforcer, he’s more than happy to do it.

“When you hear the fans all screaming for you, it makes you feel appreciated out there,” he said.

Callahan worked out harder than ever this past summer, adding a little weight but not too much. “I didn’t want to lose any speed while I was trying to bulk up,” he said.

He hopes to take a regular shift during his sophomore season with the Griffins, a year after sitting out more than his share of games, first as a healthy scratch early in the season and, later, due to a pair of injuries, including a concussion.

“I don’t think anybody likes being a healthy Callahan finished second among AHL rookies

last season with 14 fighting majors.


Callahan won a bronze medal with Team USA at the World Junior Championship in 2011.

scratch,” he said. “But we had a lot of young guys, and [former Griffins coach Curt Fraser] wanted to make it fair and get everybody in the mix.”

Dealing with the post-concussion symptoms was more frustrating, especially with the team failing to qualify for the playoffs. “It’s tough to watch your team play and not be in the lineup,” he said.

Callahan comes into the 2012-13 season fully recovered and feeling like he and his teammates are in a position to make big strides with another year of experience under their belts.

“If you compared us to other teams last year, we had one of the top teams on paper,” he said. “I think our season went pretty well, although we didn’t get the wins that we expected. Our work ethic was really good and we got along great. We just need to figure out how to win.”

Callahan has set no goals, at least statistically speaking, for this season, but he is ready to do what he can to help the team make the playoffs for the first time in four seasons.

“I would like to be more poised and patient with the puck,” he said. “I’d also like to stay healthy the whole season. I felt really good this summer, and I can’t wait to get started.”


Summit Training Source specializes in employee training programs for safety and compliance excellence in industries such as construction, manufacturing, transportation, warehousing and distribution, healthcare, utilities/energy, and food manufacturing. Prevent costly accidents and injuries and keep your employees in the game.

Summit Training Source – Making People Better Since 1981.

Play Safe Work Safe

www.safetyontheweb.com I 800.842.0466

SPECIALISTS IN COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL RECYCLING

www.riverside-recycling.com(616) 451-0288


To follow the Griffins all season long and receive exclusive offers, info and more via our social media network,

visit griffinshockey.com/socialmedia

Join the Conversation!

54 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 55Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 55


616.949.7446 www.fastsigns.com/467

Sponsor - Griffins’ Designated Driver Program

This project is brought to you in partnership with Network 180 and supported by a grant from the Behavioral Health and Departmental Disabilities Administration/

Bureau of Substance Abuse & Addiction Services.BAC Calculator

HERE

RethinkDrinks.comAn Effort to Prevent Adult Heavy Drinking

What’s the hurry?Slow down. Drink less.

As the overseer of business operations for the Griffins, Tim Gortsema is one busy guy.


When Tim Gortsema interviewed with the Grand Rapids Griffins in 1995 after a stint in the audit department at Deloitte & Touche, little did he know that he would wind up counting buns instead of beans.

The one-time Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is now senior vice president of business operations for the Griffins, which means that he gets to wear a lot of different hats – not an uncommon situation in the world of minor league sports.

“Over the years, you do everything,” said Gortsema, one of two employees who has worked in the Griffins’ office since the franchise’s inception 17 years ago (Lisa Vedder, director of accounting and tax, is the other).

“I’ve had the pleasure of passing out copies of Griffiti, selling merchandise in the stands and dropping coupons from the catwalk above the ice – things that all of us end up doing at some point,” he said.

One of his more unique duties, he claims, is “hot dog consumption prognosticator,” a responsibility he assumed not long after the Griffins introduced their popular dollar beer and hot dog promotion in the middle of the 2007-08 season.

Gortsema maintains a spreadsheet on his computer in order to take the guessing game out of the gastronomical. Determining the number of hot dogs that might be consumed on a given Friday is neither art nor science, but this Griffins office veteran is a pundit with purpose.

Curiously, the dog-and-suds promotion started almost on a whim.

“We wanted to inject some energy and life into the building,” Gortsema said, explaining the rationale behind the popular promotion. “We weren’t looking to attract a rowdy crowd that would create a ruckus, but we wanted

to create an environment that was more conducive to hockey.”

On too many nights, the building seemed almost church-like – critics had come to dub it Saint Van Andel – and the Griffins hoped the promotion would change the atmosphere.

“From the beginning we felt like it was a success,” he said. “Not only did it help create new life and excitement, it also introduced us to a new demographic of fans.”

The “beer crowd” was initially seen as being largely college students, but Gortsema has seen the fan base grow to include more young professionals – people that come for the Buds and stay to watch exciting hockey with their buds.

“It’s not a case of cheap beer and sayonara,” Gortsema said. “In short order, we’ve seen many of

As the overseer of business operations for the Griffins, Tim Gortsema is one busy guy.

Griffins Sr. VP Tim Gortsema (left) congratulated Russ Campbell of Wyoming, Mich., as he entered the Van Andel Arena turnstiles on March 17, 2012 to become

the 5 millionth fan in franchise history.

Story and photo by Mark Newman

MAN OFMANY HATS


them become fans. You see them on the concourse during the first period, but by the second period they’re flooding into the arena and they end up staying for the whole game. They’re standing on their feet during the shootout, yelling and cheering the team on to victory. It’s really a win-win for everyone.”

The dollar promotion is just one element that has helped the Griffins secure attendance increases in five of the last six seasons.

“I’m very proud of our staff because they have put in a lot of hard work to make that happen,” Gortsema said. “It’s particularly gratifying because it’s been accomplished in a rather challenging economic environment where people have fewer discretionary funds and are more discerning in terms of how they spend their hard-earned money.”

Unlike most minor league organizations, the Griffins have enjoyed continuity among their staff with a number of long-tenured personnel who have stayed with the team for close to a decade or more. “Our continuity is extremely rare in the world of minor league sports,” he said.

Gortsema points to owners Dan DeVos and David Van Andel as the prime movers who keep the behind-the-scenes team together.

“When I first interviewed, I thought it was a great organization with great ownership, and that hasn’t changed – in fact, it’s something that has continued to validate itself over the years,” Gortsema said.

To illustrate his point, Gortsema suggests that DeVos is not your typical sports owner who is forever meddling in the operations.

“I believe he subscribes to the same mantra that I do: you hire the right people and you let them do their job,” Gortsema said. “I think it’s why we’ve been able to build a great staff and management team.”

Working in the Griffins office is not a run-of-the-mill operation.

“We’re not selling widgets. We’re selling sports and entertainment. It’s a lot of hard work and a lot of hours – a lot of nights and weekends – but we’re selling fun. That’s one notion that we try to impress upon our staff every year, the fact that we work where people play.”

Indeed, the organization is determined to sell a top-notch experience every time the Griffins take the ice.

“People come to the arena to have a good time,” he said. “It may be one of 38 games for us, but it may be the only game a person will see this season. We want to do everything in our power to give them a positive experience, whether it’s a family outing, guys getting together with buddies or the ladies’ night out.

“After 17 years and 16 seasons with the Griffins, I’ve had the pleasure to meet many great hockey fans and have seen several of our best supporters

literally grow up and now have kids of their own that also enjoy Griffins hockey,” he added.

Every hockey game, Gortsema contends, is a chance to make an impression.

“Everyone can harken back to one or two memories of attending sporting events over the years, where you remember the experience and how you felt. Those are things that are locked long-term into your memory, and we have that opportunity every night. We cannot control what happens on the ice – there’s a bad break, the goalie lets in a bad goal or the team clanks three shots off the crossbar – but we have the ability to influence the overall off-the-ice experience.”

Many of the Griffins’ promotions have developed through trial and error. Over the years, the organization has successfully branded a number of nights on the schedule.

Fridays, behind the strength of the dollar hot dogs and beers promotion, attract a younger crowd. Saturdays are popular with groups, thanks to giveaways, celebrity appearances and unique entertainment offerings. Sundays attract families, with Pepsi soft drinks for a dollar and, new this year, ice cream for a dollar. “With our four o’clock starts on Sundays, families can enjoy the game and still gets the kids home and to bed at a good time,” Gortsema said.

Winning Wednesdays have proven to be a hit with the casual sports fan. When the Griffins win at home on Wednesday, each fan in attendance receives a free ticket to the next Wednesday game.

“Our overall record hasn’t been the best the past couple of seasons, but we’ve been really good on Wednesdays,” Gortsema said. “We’ve had people come for one game and they end up seeing several games, and when that happens, you’ve potentially cultivated a new fan. They start to recognize the roster and gain a familiarity with the team just from coming every Wednesday.”

On Wednesdays, fans become even more invested in the game.

“When the score is 2-2 late in a game on a Wednesday, they’re really cheering for that goal,” Gortsema said. “A shootout is suddenly a lot more meaningful.”

Not every promotion is a success. “We don’t do everything right – we make mistakes along the way, but that’s what is great about sports. You have a chance to start fresh every season, that opportunity to begin anew with the knowledge of what works and what doesn’t. There’s a certain appeal to being able to start over each year.”

For Gortsema, it’s a challenge that he relishes and a job like none other.

“When I can look at a player’s jersey card and see my signature on the back as proof of authenticity, that’s pretty neat,” he said. “I get to work in a job that my kids think is cool, and that’s something you can’t put a price on.”


Integrity • Quality • SolutionsIntegrity • Quality • Solutions

1-800-444-6430HOME & OFFICE RELOCATIONS

www.powellrelocationgroup.com• LOCAL • STATEWIDE

• NATIONWIDE • WORLDWIDE

Integrity • Quality • SolutionsIntegrity • Quality • Solutions

1-800-444-6430HOME & OFFICE RELOCATIONS

www.powellrelocationgroup.com• LOCAL • STATEWIDE

• NATIONWIDE • WORLDWIDE

www.powellrelocationgroup.com


STORING MORE THAN YOUR ZAMBONI?

10 Convenient Grand Rapids Area Locations! Visit TheStoragePros.com for More Info or Call Us at 877.787.9977

STORING MORE THAN YOUR ZAMBONI?

Ask About Our FREE TRUCK Rental!

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 61Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 61

C O M M U N I T Y C R E A S E

Although our players go back to their homes every summer, Griff and the front office staff remain in town

and stay busy by sharing the joy of Griffins hockey with fans throughout West Michigan.

WHAT WE DID DURING OUR SUMMER VACATION

2012-13 GRIFFINS TEAM EVENTSOCT. 15: 5th Annual Pups & Pucks Fall

Walk-a-Thon at Mackenzie’s Animal SanctuaryOCT. 23: Griffins Booster Club Meet the Team Banquet

NOV. 13: Tip-A-Griffin at Uccello’s RestaurantsJAN. 12-13: 11th Annual Great Skate

Winterfest at Rosa Parks CircleFEB. 4: Griffins Booster Club Silent Auction

FEB. 12: 8th Annual Griffins/Sled Wings Sled Hockey Game at Griff’s IceHouseFEB. 19: 2nd Annual Reds, Whites

& Brews at the Goei CenterAPRIL 15: Griffins Booster Club Awards Banquet

For information on these and many other community events, please visit griffinshockey.com.


GAMES PLAYED 1. Travis Richards ............. 655 2. Michel Picard ................ 364 3. Jamie Tardif ................... 316 4. Derek Meech.................. 304 5. Ryan Oulahen ................ 302 6. Francis Pare ................... 295 7. Darryl Bootland ............ 293 8. Logan Pyett .................... 288 9. Matt Ellis ........................ 282 10. Dave Van Drunen ......... 280

GOALS 1. Michel Picard ................ 158 2. Francis Pare ......................80 3. Jamie Tardif ......................78 4. Kip Miller ..........................75 5. Derek King ........................73 6. Darryl Bootland ...............72 7. Matt Ellis ...........................69 8. Jiri Hudler .........................65 9. Tomas Tatar......................64 10. Tomas Kopecky ................63

ASSISTS 1. Michel Picard ................ 222 2. Travis Richards ............. 182 3. Kip Miller ....................... 133 4. Derek King ..................... 130 5. Jiri Hudler ...................... 114 6. Francis Pare ................... 113 7. Glen Metropolit ...............88 8. Jeff Nelson .........................87 9 Matt Ellis ...........................84 10. Tomas Tatar......................83

POINTS 1. Michel Picard................101 .....................1996-97 2. Jiri Hudler .......................96 .....................2005-06 3. Jeff Nelson .......................89 .....................1996-97 4. Donald MacLean ............88 .....................2005-06 5. Michel Picard..................84 .....................2002-03 6. Derek King ....................*83 .....................2000-01 7. Mark Mowers .................81 .....................2002-03 Glen Metropolit..............81 .....................1998-99 9. Darren Haydar ...............80 .....................2008-09 10. Eric Manlow ...................73 .....................2005-06

GOALS 1. Donald MacLean ..........*56 .....................2005-06 2. Michel Picard..................46 .....................1996-97 3. Jiri Hudler .......................36 .....................2005-06 4. Mark Mowers .................34 .....................2002-03 Jeff Nelson .......................34 .....................1996-97 6. Slava Butsayev ................33 .....................2000-01 Michel Picard..................33 .....................1999-00 8. Jeremy Williams .............32 .....................2009-10 Tomas Kopecky ..............32 .....................2005-06 Michel Picard..................32 .....................2002-03 Derek King ......................32 .....................2000-01 *Led League

ASSISTS1. Jiri Hudler .......................60 .....................2005-062. Jeff Nelson .......................55 .....................1996-97 Michel Picard..................55 .....................1996-974. Glen Metropolit..............53 .....................1998-995. Michel Picard..................52 .....................2002-036. Derek King ......................51 .....................2000-017. Valtteri Filppula .............50 .....................2005-068. Darren Haydar ...............49 .....................2008-099. Eric Manlow ...................48 .....................2005-06 Stacy Roest ......................48 .....................2002-03

PENALTY MINUTES 1. Darryl Bootland ...........390 .....................2005-06 2. Matt Ruchty ..................364 .....................1996-97 3. Chris Neil ......................354 .....................2000-01 4. Wade Brookbank .........337 .....................2001-02 5. Darryl Bootland ...........336 .....................2004-05 6. Darcy Simon .................327 .....................1996-97 7. Peter Vandermeer ........310 .....................2004-05 Bruce Ramsay ...............310 .....................1997-98 9. Bruce Ramsay ...............306 .....................1996-97 10. Chris Neil ......................301 .....................1999-00

(Through 2011-12)

GRIFFINS ALL-TIME LEADERS

SINGLE SEASON TOP TEN

GRIFFINS’ ALL-TIME LEADERS IN GOALTENDING WINS

JOEY MacDONALD JIMMY HOWARD MIKE FOUNTAIN MARC LAMOTHE DANIEL LARSSON (109) (90) (55) (54) (45)

GRIFFINS RECORDS

Official Orthopaedic Physicians of the

Grand Rapids Griffins Since Game 1.

Excellent medicine. Personalized care.

Sports Medicine Institute

William W. Schwab, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Thomas M. Matelic, M.D.

Peter C. Theut, M.D.

Michael R.F. Jabara, M.D.

Phone 616-459-7101

www.OAMichigan.com/SMI

PENALTY CALLS


PENALTY CALLS

“ - Places to Play” “One of the 25 best golf courses in Michigan”

-GOLF DIGEST

More than a great place to visit–it’s a great place to live.

Call 616-828-6780

Year-round Golf Lessons.Join the Academy!Call 616-363-GOLF

Our beautiful Rees Jones signature course is designed to provide a challenging test of golf, while accommodating golfers of all skill levels. Just minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, see for yourself why this stunning jewel has been rated one of the best golf courses around.

One of Michigan’s premier golf destinations.

Thousand Oaks is a name synonymous with attention to detail, sumptuous dining andunblemished nature. Once reserved for small parties and business meetings, ThousandOaks now presents Grand Oaks Banquet and Meeting Facility to accommodategatherings of all sizes. Nestled into a private, 425-acre setting, yet just minutes fromDowntown Grand Rapids, Grand Oaks Banquet Facility offers a refreshing alternativefor meetings, receptions, and private parties. From the intimate setting of the Birch Room that seats 60 Guests, the expanse ofthe Grand Oaks Hall that accommodates up to 350 persons, Grand Oaks Banquet Facility can meet most reception needs instyle. Our high performance facility, with its pre-function area, offers a flawless setting for professional meetings and personalevents. With a full line of projection screens, audio/visual equipment, stage and wireless business center, Grand Oaks is versatile,reliable, and priced ala-carte to most budgets.

www.togc.net

Casual and inviting surroundings. Diverse menu. Breathtaking views.

4100 Thousand Oaks Drive, Grand Rapids | East Beltline and 5 Mile - go East one mile | 616.447.7750


NHL AFFILIATIONSOttawa Senators 1999-2002, Detroit Red Wings 2002-Present

1996-97 Jeff Nelson, Michel Picard, Pokey Reddick1997-98 Ian Gordon, Kerry Huffman, Michel Picard1998-99 Robert Petrovicky, Maxim Spiridonov1999-00 John Gruden, Jani Hurme, Kevin Miller, Petr Schastlivy2000-01 Mike Fountain, Joel Kwiatkowski, Travis Richards, Todd White2001-02 Chris Bala, John Gruden, Kip Miller, Martin Prusek, Petr Schastlivy2002-03 Mark Mowers, Marc Lamothe2003-04 Jiri Hudler, Niklas Kronwall, Travis Richards, Nathan Robinson2004-05 Niklas Kronwall, Joey MacDonald2005-06 Valtteri Filppula, Jiri Hudler, Donald MacLean2006-07 Kip Miller, Derek Meech2007-08 Jonathan Ericsson, Jimmy Howard2008-09 Jakub Kindl, Daniel Larsson2009-10 Patrick Rissmiller2010-11 Ilari Filppula, Brendan Smith2011-12 Gustav Nyquist

SEASON RECORDS (IHL 1996-2001, AHL 2001- Present)YEAR GP W L T OTL SOL PTS GF GA FINISH1996-97 82 40 30 - - 12 92 244 246 10 of 191997-98 82 38 31 - - 13 89 225 242 11 of 181998-99 82 34 40 - - 8 76 256 281 15 of 161999-00 82 51 22 - - 9 111 254 200 2 of 132000-01 82 53 22 - 4 3 113 279 196 1 of 112001-02 80 42 27 11 0 - 95 217 178 4 of 272002-03 80 48 22 8 2 - 106 240 177 2 of 272003-04 80 44 28 8 0 - 96 195 166 5 of 282004-05 80 41 35 - 2 2 86 200 200 17 of 282005-06 80 55 20 - 1 4 115 323 247 1 of 272006-07 80 37 32 - 6 5 85 226 244 17 of 272007-08 80 31 41 - 2 6 70 210 245 25 of 292008-09 80 43 25 - 6 6 98 255 226 8 of 292009-10 80 34 39 - 3 4 75 244 265 26 of 292010-11 80 36 34 - 2 8 82 227 254 23 of 302011-12 76 33 32 - 7 4 77 245 249 24 of 30

G R I F F I N S A L L - S T A R S

2012 AHL All-Star Gustav Nyquist

Photo by PhotoGraphics Photography/AHL

2011 AHL All-Star Ilari FilppulaPhoto by JustSports Photography/AHL


NHL AFFILIATIONSOttawa Senators 1999-2002, Detroit Red Wings 2002-Present

SEASON LEADERS (* = Led League)

2010 AHL All-Star Patrick RissmillerPhoto by Sports Action Photography/AHL

2009 AHL All-Star Jakub KindlPhoto by JustSports Photography/AHL

2009 AHL All-Star Daniel LarssonPhoto by JustSports Photography/AHL

SCORING1996-97 . . . .Michel Picard ......................................... 101 points1997-98 . . . .Michel Picard ........................................... 69 points1998-99 . . . .Glen Metropolit ....................................... 81 points1999-00 . . . .Michel Picard ........................................... 68 points2000-01 . . . .Derek King .............................................83 points*2001-02 . . . .Kip Miller ................................................ 56 points2002-03 . . . .Michel Picard ........................................... 84 points2003-04 . . . .Michel Picard ........................................... 54 points2004-05 . . . .Niklas Kronwall........................................ 53 points2005-06 . . . .Jiri Hudler ............................................... 96 points2006-07 . . . .Kip Miller ................................................ 72 points2007-08 . . . .Carl Corazzini ........................................... 60 points2008-09 . . . .Darren Haydar ......................................... 80 points2009-10 . . . .Jeremy Williams ....................................... 63 points 2010-11 . . . .Ilari Filppula ........................................... 64 points 2011-12 . . . . Jamie Johnson /Gustav Nyquist/Tomas Tatar ...58 points

GOALS1996-97 . . . . Michel Picard .................................................... 461997-98 . . . . Michel Picard .................................................... 281998-99 . . . . Glen Metropolit ................................................. 281999-00 . . . . Michel Picard .................................................... 332000-01 . . . . Slava Butsayev .................................................. 332001-02 . . . . Petr Schastlivy .................................................. 222002-03 . . . . Mark Mowers .................................................... 342003-04 . . . . Kevin Miller ...................................................... 272004-05 . . . . Eric Manlow ...................................................... 212005-06 . . . . Donald MacLean ...............................................56*2006-07 . . . . Matt Ellis .......................................................... 262007-08 . . . . Carl Corazzini .................................................... 242008-09 . . . . Darren Haydar................................................... 312009-10 . . . . Jeremy Williams ................................................ 32 2010-11 . . . . Jamie Tardif ...................................................... 27 2011-12 . . . . Tomas Tatar ...................................................... 24

PENALTY MINUTES1996-97 . . . . Matt Ruchty .................................................... 3641997-98 . . . . Bruce Ramsay ................................................. 3101998-99 . . . . Jared Bednar .................................................. 2201999-00 . . . . Chris Neil ........................................................ 3012000-01 . . . . Chris Neil ........................................................ 3542001-02 . . . . Wade Brookbank ............................................. 3372002-03 . . . . Ryan Barnes .................................................... 1512003-04 . . . . Ryan Barnes, Darryl Bootland ........................... 1752004-05 . . . . Darryl Bootland ............................................... 3362005-06 . . . . Darryl Bootland ............................................... 3902006-07 . . . . Darryl Bootland ............................................... 2222007-08 . . . . Kyle Quincey ................................................... 1492008-09 . . . . Aaron Downey ................................................. 1262009-10 . . . . Paul Crosty ..................................................... 170 2010-11 . . . . Greg Amadio ................................................... 230 2011-12 . . . . Garnet Exelby ................................................. 177

GOALTENDING WINS1996-97 . . . . Pokey Reddick ....................................... (30-14-10)1997-98 . . . . Ian Gordon ..............................................(23-16-4)1998-99 . . . . Neil Little ................................................(18-21-5)1999-00 . . . . Jani Hurme ..............................................(29-15-4)2000-01 . . . . Mike Fountain ....................................... (34-10-6)*2001-02 . . . . Martin Prusek ............................................(18-8-5)2002-03 . . . . Marc Lamothe ....................................... (33-18-8)*2003-04 . . . . Joey MacDonald .......................................(22-12-3)2004-05 . . . . Joey MacDonald .......................................(34-29-2)2005-06 . . . . Jimmy Howard ...........................................(27-6-2)2006-07 . . . . Jimmy Howard .........................................(21-21-3)2007-08 . . . . Jimmy Howard .........................................(21-28-2)2008-09 . . . . Daniel Larsson .........................................(22-12-2)2009-10 . . . . Daniel Larsson ........................................(23-24-2) 2010-11 . . . . Jordan Pearce ..........................................(20-15-5)2011-12 . . . . Joey MacDonald .......................................(11-11-3) Tom McCollum .........................................(11-16-0)


PROUD TO REPRESENT PLAYERS IN THE AHL, CHL, AND ECHL

VISIT PHPA.COMYour source for PHPA news, officially licensed collectors

items, and PHPA merchandise.


STAY CONNECTEDWITH THE LEAGUE

WITH THE FANS

WITH THE GAME

GET ALL THE LATEST NEWS, STATS, AND LIVE UPDATES

ON ALL 30 TEAMS AT THEAHL.COM

JOIN THE CONVERSATION AND EXPERIENCE BEHIND-THE-SCENES ACCESS WITH THE AHL ON SOCIAL MEDIA

CATCH EVERY MOMENT WITH LIVE GAME STREAMING AND POST-GAME HIGHLIGHTS ON AHL LIVE

SCORE EXCLUSIVE APPAREL AND AHL MEMORABILIA AT AHLSTORE.COM AND AHL AUTHENTIC AUCTIONS

WITH THE GEAR


Located at West Michigan Meijer stores, www.startickets.com or 616.222.4000 THE ZONE Located on the West side of Van Andel ArenaONLINE griffinshockey.comSeats may not be available in all price categories. For season, game-plan and group ticket information, call 616.774.4585 or 1.800.2.HOCKEY.

Tickets Van Andel Arena

VIP Glass $32 $34

Lower Level Preferred $26 $28

Lower Level Center Ice $22 $24

Lower Level Faceoff $18 $20

VIP Edge $18 $20

Upper Level Preferred $16 $18

Upper Level $14 $16

Suites & Hospitality Areas Call for pricing and availability

ADVANCE DAY OFGAME

Open Saturdays9-11 am

during fall sports season!

Your Health. Our Passion.

(616) 252-7778metrohealth.net

TreatingSports Injuries

Get expert care in one convenient spot

at the Metro Health Sports Medicine Center. With sports medicine physicians,

orthopedic surgeons and

physical therapists all

working together, we’ll

get you in quickly

and back to your

activities sooner.

Proud to be the official medical provider for the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Tomas Kopecky, 2010 Chicago

1 Pavol Demitra 3/17/97 STL at PHX2 Kevyn Adams 10/1/97 TOR vs. WSH3 Tyler Moss 10/28/97 CGY vs. PIT4 Michel Picard 1/6/98 STL at SJ5 Jeff Nelson 10/10/98 NSH vs. FLA6 Patrick Traverse 10/10/98 OTT at COL7 Mark Greig 1/7/99 PHI vs. NYI8 Radim Bicanek 2/1/99 OTT at VAN9 Robert Petrovicky 2/15/99 TB at NYI10 Andrei Vasilyev 3/5/99 PHX vs. DET11 Todd Hlushko 4/25/99 PIT vs. NJ12 Patrick Lalime 10/2/99 OTT at PHI13 Glen Metropolit 10/2/99 WSH at FLA14 Kevin Miller 10/31/99 OTT at ATL15 Karel Rachunek 10/31/99 OTT at ATL16 Erich Goldmann 11/11/99 OTT vs. NSH17 Yves Sarault 11/20/99 OTT at NJ18 John Gruden 11/30/99 OTT vs. CHI19 Mike Fountain 12/3/99 OTT at NJ20 Dave Van Drunen 12/13/99 OTT at TOR21 Petr Schastlivy 1/3/00 OTT vs. NJ22 John Emmons 1/6/00 OTT vs. PHX23 Slava Butsayev 1/28/00 OTT at BUF24 Aris Brimanis 2/13/00 NYI at NYR

25 Dieter Kochan 3/28/00 TB vs. DAL26 Jani Hurme 4/9/00 OTT vs. TB27 Shane Hnidy 10/5/00 OTT at BOS28 Donald MacLean 10/14/00 TOR vs. OTT29 David Oliver 11/4/00 OTT vs. CBJ30 Jamie Rivers 11/12/00 OTT at CAR31 Sean Gagnon 11/26/00 OTT at NYR32 Joel Bouchard 11/29/00 PHX at COL33 Mike Crowley 12/8/00 ANA at MIN34 Ivan Ciernik 1/23/01 OTT at NYI35 Darren Rumble 2/6/01 STL at COL36 Joel Kwiatkowski 2/19/01 OTT at BUF37 Todd White 2/19/01 OTT at BUF38 Chris Neil 10/3/01 OTT at TOR39 Toni Dahlman 1/3/02 OTT vs. WSH40 Steve Martins 1/11/02 OTT at FLA41 Kip Miller 1/17/02 NYI at SJ42 Jody Hull 2/4/02 OTT at TB43 Dmitry Afanasenkov 2/6/02 TB at FLA44 Simon Lajeunesse 3/7/02 OTT at SJ45 Martin Prusek 3/23/02 OTT vs. ATL46 Chris Bala 3/27/02 OTT at NYI47 Neil Little 3/28/02 PHI at CAR48 Josh Langfeld 3/30/02 OTT vs. TB

49 Gaetan Royer 4/1/02 TB vs. NYR50 Jason Spezza 10/24/02 OTT at BOS51 Sean Avery 10/29/02 DET vs. SJ52 Jason Doig 12/3/02 WSH at PIT53 Jason Williams 12/5/02 DET at PHX54 Patrick Boileau 12/19/02 DET vs. DAL55 Stacy Roest 2/20/03 DET vs. EDM56 Wade Brookbank 10/9/03 NSH vs. ANA57 Julien Vauclair 10/25/03 OTT at MTL58 Jiri Hudler 10/29/03 DET vs. STL59 Curtis Joseph 10/30/03 DET at NSH60 Darryl Bootland 11/8/03 DET vs. NSH61 Mark Mowers 11/19/03 DET vs. CBJ62 Nathan Robinson 11/28/03 DET vs. NYI63 Blake Sloan 12/4/03 DAL at LA64 Niklas Kronwall 12/10/03 DET at BUF65 Ryan Barnes 12/15/03 DET vs. FLA66 Chris Kelly 2/5/04 OTT vs. TOR67 Marc Lamothe 2/23/04 DET at EDM68 Anders Myrvold 2/26/04 DET at CGY69 Mathieu Chouinard 2/29/04 LA at ANA

SINCE THEIR INCEPTION IN 1996, THE GRIFFINS HAVE SENT 125 PLAYERS TO THE NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE, 14 OF WHOM HAVE GONE ON TO WIN THE STANLEY CUP. IN FACT, A GRIFFINS ALUMNUS HAS HAD HIS NAME ENGRAVED ON LORD STANLEY’S CHALICE IN FOUR OF THE LAST FIVE YEARS AND IN SIX OF THE LAST EIGHT SEASONS. IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER, HERE ARE THE 18 GOALIES AND 107 SKATERS WHO HAVE WORN AN NHL SWEATER AFTER PLAYING FOR GRAND RAPIDS, ALONG WITH THE DATES OF THEIR NHL DEBUTS/RETURNS.

I T A L L S T A R T S H E R EGRIFFINS IN THE NHL


I T A L L S T A R T S H E R E

Niklas Kronwall, 2008 Detroit

Chris Kelly, 2011 Boston

Mark Eaton, 2009 Pittsburgh

70 Brett Lebda 10/5/05 DET vs. STL71 Mark Eaton 10/5/05 NSH vs. SJ72 Chris Osgood 10/29/05 DET at CHI73 Kyle Quincey 11/25/05 DET at ANA74 Jimmy Howard 11/28/05 DET at LA75 Valtteri Filppula 12/15/05 DET at FLA76 Rob Collins 12/17/05 NYI vs. COL77 Manny Legace 1/5/06 DET vs. STL78 David Gove 1/31/06 CAR at MTL79 Tomas Kopecky 2/28/06 DET at SJ80 Alexandre Giroux 3/25/06 NYR at TB81 Joey MacDonald 10/19/06 DET at SJ82 Derek Meech 12/7/06 DET vs. STL83 Matt Ellis 12/18/06 DET at CBJ84 Matt Hussey 1/26/07 DET at STL85 Sheldon Brookbank 2/6/07 NSH at PIT86 Danny Syvret 2/27/07 EDM vs. PHX87 Mark Hartigan 11/29/07 DET vs. TB88 Drew MacIntyre 12/13/07 VAN at SJ89 Peter Vandermeer 2/10/08 PHX vs. NSH90 Jonathan Ericsson 2/22/08 DET at CGY

91 Garrett Stafford 2/23/08 DET at VAN92 Darren Helm 3/13/08 DET vs. DAL93 Mattias Ritola 3/15/08 DET vs. NSH94 Clay Wilson 3/25/08 CBJ at NSH95 Darren McCarty 3/28/08 DET vs. STL96 Krys Kolanos 11/4/08 MIN at SJ97 Landon Wilson 11/22/08 DAL vs. ANA98 Bryan Helmer 11/28/08 WSH vs. MTL99 Chris Chelios 12/13/08 DET at PHX100 Aaron Downey 1/29/09 DET vs. DAL101 Justin Abdelkader 1/31/09 DET at WSH102 Ville Leino

1/31/09 DET at WSH103 Aaron Gagnon

10/16/09 DAL vs. BOS104 Scott Parse

10/24/09 LA at PHX105 Doug Janik

11/3/09 DET vs. BOS106 Ryan Keller

11/25/09 OTT at NJ107 Jakub Kindl

12/3/09 DET vs. EDM108 Kris Newbury

12/14/09 DET vs. PHX109 Darren Haydar

2/10/10 COL vs. ATL110 Andreas Lilja

3/1/10 DET at COL111 Jeremy Williams 10/24/10 NYR vs. NJ

112 Jan Mursak 12/27/10 DET at COL

113 Chris Mueller 12/28/10 NSH vs. DAL114 Tomas Tatar 12/31/10 DET vs. NYI115 Cory Emmerton 1/22/11 DET vs. CHI116 Patrick Rissmiller 2/23/11 ATL at BUF 117 Tom McCollum

3/30/11 DET vs. STL118 Gustav Nyquist

11/1/11 DET vs. MIN119 Fabian Brunnstrom

11/5/11 DET vs. ANA120 Brendan Smith

11/17/11 DET at SJ121 Mark Cullen 11/29/11 FLA at CAR122 Chris Conner 12/2/11 DET at BUF123 Joakim Andersson 12/27/11 DET vs. STL124 Ty Conklin

3/21/12 DET at NYR125 Riley Sheahan

4/7/12 DET vs. CHI

Bold = Played in the NHL during the 2011-12 season

Italics = Had name engraved on the Stanley Cup after playing for Grand Rapids

All photos by Getty Images except Niklas Kronwall (Dave Reginek).

Kevyn Adams, 2006 Carolina

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 79Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 79

KIDS PAGE

Adam ALMQUISTJoakim ANDERSSONLouis-Marc AUBRY

Chad BILLINSHead Coach Jeff BLASHILL

Mitch CALLAHANWillie COETZEE

Brennan EVANSLandon FERRARO

Gleason FOURNIERLuke GLENDENING

Triston GRANTTomas JURCO

Brian LASHOFF

Joey MACDONALDTom MCCOLLUM

Petr MRAZEKAndrej NESTRASIL

Max NICASTROGustav NYQUIST

Assistant Coach Jim PAEK

Nathan PAETSCHFrancis PARE

Trevor PARKESJordan PEARCEBrent RAEDEKERiley SHEAHANBrendan SMITH

Tomas TATAR

L P A E K E S L G J U R C O T T I F H C H L Y L H T I M S S Z Y S R E I V S E J Y N C A I U R A A H D L A N O D C A M U U E H S R R W M D I R G D F Q P A A A W T C M E E L B P A M N L T O K C S O N F C L N H L B A D S O K R E I O E D I A A T C A L L A H A N U E N R B S I O L B R W P S G R Z Y A E E A U B R Y W T A S N T Q E V K M K E Z A R M S R I E U D A R A F L A S H O F F E O I E N A T N A R G N U D U R C S K S P O R T S A C I N H C S T E A P

PRESENTING YOUR GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS! The Griffins have dropped the puck on the 2012-13 AHL campaign, and it’s time

to meet all the players and coaches you’ll cheer for this season. First, find the last name of each Griffins player and coach by searching horizontally, vertically

and diagonally, both forward and backward. Then check out the photos and biographical information on pages 40-41 and learn all about the team by

reading Griffiti cover to cover. Have fun!


PARTING SHOT

Phot

o by

Mar

k N

ewm

an

Goaltender Petr Mrazek, a rookie out of Ostrava, Czech Republic, shares a laugh with fellow countryman Jiri Fischer, Red Wings director of player development, during Griffins training camp.

For a list of all Grand Rapids Area Belle Tire locations visit www.belletire.com or call 1-888-GO-BELLE

Alignments • Windshields • Brakes • Shocks & Struts • Batteries • AND MORE!

Great Savings On Automotive Services

NOW OPEN INGaines Township, Wyoming and Fruitport

Offer valid on retail purchases made before 12/31/12. $39.95 minimum purchase on installed product required. Good on retail prices only and cannot be combined with additional coupons, offers, discounts, warranty transactions or special sale pricing.

Cannot be used to purchase gift cards. Limit one coupon per customer per month. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase in order to receive discount. No cash value. USE Coupon 99; Code 790811.

Your Next Purchase$20 OFFSave Even More!

137298f.pgs 09.02.2011 14:58 PowerTrap .003

2012-13 Griffiti - Issue #1

Documents

Transcript of 2012-13 Griffiti - Issue #1