Friday, December 30, 2011

Blues Acquire Fay from OCN

It may be Christmas break, but the Winnipeg Blues coaching staff have stayed busy over the holidays.

Blues Head Coach/GM Don Macgillivray announced the club has acquired 20 year old Defenseman Colin Fay from OCN in exchange for future considerations.

The 6'4, 205 pounder from St. Claude has 11 assists in 38 games with the Blizzard so far this season.

The Blues would like to welcome Colin to the organization.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Three Goal First Lifts Blues Past Natives

 The Winnipeg Blues were not very gracious hosts tonight, as they welcomed the Neepawa Natives to the Ice Plex for the first time this season, and promptly scored three first period goals en route to a 5-2 win.

The win was the third straight for Winnipeg over Neepawa this season, and it was the final Blues home game in 2011. 

Winnipeg won't play another home game until January 13th, 2012.

Derek Gingera scored his team leading 22nd and 23rd markers this season in the first, with Jake Heisinger adding his 12th to give the Blues a 3-0 lead after one.

The two clubs exchanged goals in the second, Cody Hoy for the Natives, and Dustin Pearson for the Blues.  Jared Williamson assisted on Pearson's goal, giving the newly acquired defenseman his first point as a Blue.

In the third Sam Prpich would find the back of the net for Neepawa, but Warren Callis would seal it for Winnipeg, giving the Blues a 5-2 win.

Isiah Plett was strong in the pipes, picking up his 12th win of the season, stopping 32 of the 34 shots he faced.  Natives Riley Feser drops to 7-16-0-1 after allowing 5 goals on 35 shots.

Winnipeg will now hit the road for the next seven games beginning with a trip to Winkler to face the Flyers on Tuesday night. 

The Blues are 1-2-0 vs Winkler so far this season, dropping their last game 6-3 at the Ice Plex back on November 8.

The Blues have a very strong record away from the Ice Plex, as they sit 13-4-0 in opposing buildings so far this season.

The rest of the road trip will see the Blues face the Winnipeg Saints (Dec 16), Winkler again (Dec 17), Steinbach (Dec 21) 

Then the league shuts down for Christmas break.

Steinbach (Jan 4th), OCN (Jan 6th) and Swan Valley (Jan 7th)

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Morris Hat-trick Not Enough As Kings Drop Blues

 It was a battle of division leaders last night at the Ice Plex, and in the end, the Dauphin Kings slipped past the Winnipeg Blues 5-4.

Only one goal was scored in the opening period as Shamas Graham would light the lamp for the Kings.

In the second, Jared Morris would take the game into his own hands, scoring a natural hat-trick in the period, twice on the power play, as the Blues would notch four in the period, and lead Dauphin 4-3 heading into the final frame.

But Dauphin would score a pair of goals 38 seconds apart in the third from Jesse Sinatynski and Neil Tarnasky and that would be the difference as Dauphin takes sole possession of first place in the MJHL with the win.

Winnipeg has Saturday night off, as they prepare to host the Neepawa Natives on Sunday night.

Winnipeg has won both games against the Natives so far this season.

Puck drop is set for 6:30

Friday, December 9, 2011

Blues End Losing Skid With Win Over Pistons

 The Winnipeg Blues halted their three game losing skid with a 3-1 win over the Steinbach Pistons on Thursday night.

After scoring just three times in their previous three games, Winnipeg managed to light the lamp three times, all in the first period, and hold on for the win.

Dylan Kelly, Jeff Borse, and Paul Bonar were the goal scorers for the Blues, who now jump a point ahead of the Portage Terriers for first in the Addison Division with the win. 

Steinbach's Brett Fargher would get the Pistons within two with a power play goal midway through the second, but that would be all the offence they could muster in the loss.

This was the Blues 6th win of the season over the Pistons, with two games remaining in the season series. 

Winnipeg now gets set for a tough test tonight, as they welcome the Dauphin Kings to the Ice Plex in a battle of first place teams.  Both teams are atop the standings right now with 48 points.

The Blues have won two of the three meetings between the clubs this season, including the last time they met, a 2-1 decision back on November 22 in Dauphin.

Puck drop is set for 7:30

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Blues Blanked by Terriers

 The Winnipeg Blues goal scoring woes continued last night as they were blanked 5-0 by the Portage Terriers.

It was the first time all season the Blues were held off the scoresheet.

In what was a battle for first place in the Addison division, the Terriers notched goals from Kajon McKay and Andrew Wiebe in the first.

The second period saw Dylan Butler and Brent Wold give Portage a 4-0 lead heading into the final frame.

And Wold would get his second of the night in the third, rounding out the scoring, and giving the Terriers a 5-0 win, as well as sole possession of first place in the Addison division, one point back of the Dauphin Kings for the League lead.

The Blues, who lead the league in goals for with 143, have scored just three goals in their past three games, all of which were losses.

Winnipeg will look to avoid losiing four in a row for the first time this season as they take on the Steinbach Pistons Thursday night at the Ice Plex.

The Blues have beaten the Pistons in all five meetings so far this season, including their last win, which was back on November 26th, a 7-4 win over Steinbach at the Ice Plex.

Puck drop is set for 7:30.

Monday, December 5, 2011

Blues Acquire Defenseman From Melfort

Winnipeg Blues Head Coach/Gm Don Macgillivray announced that the club has acquired 1992 defenceman Jared Williamson from the Melfort Mustangs (SJHL) for future considerations.

The Selkirk product began the year suiting up for a pair of games with the Melville Millionaires, before dressing for 24 games with the Mustangs.  Williamson tallied four assists and twenty penalty minutes so far this season.

The Blues would like to welcome Jared to the organization.

Monday, November 7, 2011

Blues Perfect On Northern Road Trip

 The Winnipeg Blues continued their hot pace as they headed North for the weekend and came away with six of a possible six points.

All three games were decided by one goal, but the Blues keep finding ways to win close games.

The first of three started in OCN on Friday night, with the Blues prevailing 5-4 in a shootout.

Derek Gingera, Jared Morris, Jeremy Olinyk, and Joel Schreyer all lit the lamp for the Blues, while Kurt Keats added a pair of helpers in the win.

Winnipeg let a two goal lead slip away in the third period, but survived to win in a shootout as Blues netminder Isiah Plett stopped all three shooters he faced.

Saturday night it was off to Swan Valley to face the Stampeders, and again Winnipeg needed a shootout, but came out on top by the same score as the night before, a 5-4 shootout win.

And once again the Blues let a lead in the third period slip away, but found a way to win. It was the Blues 4th straight time going to extra time, and third straight shootout win.

The Blues dominated the shot clock, outshooting the Stampeders 41-19 overall, including 5-0 in overtime, but Stamps tender Alcide Grenier was sensational giving his team a chance, but falling short in the shootout.

Jake Heisinger had a pair, Tyson Price added a single, and Dylan Kelly added a goal to go along with his two assists in the game.

Olinyk continued his torrid pace notching a pair of assists in the game as well.

On Sunday, the Blues wrapped up their weekend road trip with a stop in Neepawa to face the Natives.

Again it was another one goal win, as Winnipeg skated away with a 3-2 win.  This time in regulation.

Defenseman Blair Osiowy put home his third of the year, and Gingera scored twice for the Blues, including the eventual game winner, a short handed marker in the third, giving the Blues their seventh straight victory, and keeping them all alone atop the MJHL standings with a 19-4-0 record. 

Kurt Keats also had another two assist night, his second of the weekend.

Winnipeg heads back home now for the next two games.   Winkler visits the Ice Plex this Tuesday night, while the Winnipeg Saints take on the Blues on Thursday night.  Puck drop is at 7:30 both nights.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Blues Win Battle Of Division Leading Teams

Wow, i go away for a week, and the Blues continue their great play as they continue to top the MJHL standings.

The MJHL's number one team Winnipeg Blues went into the Sherwood Division leading Dauphin Kings house and left with two points after a 4-3 shootout win on Tuesday night.

For the Blues it was their 5th straight win.  Their last loss was to the same Kings back on October 21st, a 2-1 loss at the Ice Plex.

Winnipeg would fall behind early in this game, with Jesse Sinatynski scoring a pair in the first for Dauphin, giving the Kings a 2-0 lead after one.

In the second, Jake Heisinger would get the Blues within one with his 8th of the year, and Winnipeg would head to the third trailing by one.

Dauphin would restore their two goal lead

Sinatynski would complete his hat-trick for the Kings, but Winnipeg would score twice in a span of 32 seconds to tie things up.  Jared Morris put home his 10th of the season, while the league's leading scorer Jeremy Olynyk notched his 13th, sending the game to overtime.

Nothing would be solved in overtime, so it came down to a shootout.  It needed five shooters a piece, and Derek Gingera, Olynyk, Heisinger, and Dylan Kelly all scored in the shootout for the Blues.  Lyrik Friesen was stopped.

Dauphin's Tyler Noseworthy, Matt McAleenan, and Sinatynski all found the back of the net, but Brendan Kotyk and Richard Olson would be stopped by Blues netminder Byron Spriggs, and the Blues would skate away with the 4-3 win.

Both Spriggs and Dauphin tender Ryan Bembridge were fantastic in the pipes with Spriggs stopping 34 of 37 shots fired his way, and Bembridge knocked aside 32 of 35.

Olynik now has 34 points on the season, leading all MJHL scorers.   With his goal against the Kings, he now extends his point streak to five, tallying 14 points in that span.

Next action for the Blues is this Friday night when they'll head north to take on the 7-7-3 OCN Blizzard. 

Puck drop is set for 7:00.

Next home action for Winnipeg is Tuesday, November 8th at the MTS Ice Plex.  Puck drop is at 7:30

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Blues Impress at MJHL Showcase

The MJHL Showcase took place this past weekend at the MTS Ice Plex, where the players from all teams were able to showcase their talents in front of scouts, fans, family, and teams.

And the Winnipeg Blues showed why they are tied for tops in the league, with a pair of wins over Steinbach and Swan Valley.

On Thursday, the Blues opened up the showcase by doubling up the Pistons 4-2.  Again the scoring was spread out, which has been the story for Winnipeg so far this season.

Connor Cleverley, Jared Morris, Dylan Kelly and Cole Murdock all lit the lamp in the win, while Isiah Plett was fantastic between the pipes, stopping 34 of the 36 shots he faced.

On Friday night, goaltending was the story as Winnipeg's Nate Phillips and Swan Valley's Jayson Argue were both sensational, but the Blues would skate away with a 2-1 win in the contest.

Derek Gingera would get the only goal of the opening frame, putting home his 7th of the season.  The two teams would exchange goals in the second, with Winnipeg's Kyle Bodnaruk and Stampeders Troy Hoban tallying for their clubs.
 
The third would solve nothing as both goaltenders slammed the door shut and the Blues would improve their record to 8-2-0 on the season, tying them for first in league standings.
 
Winnipeg is back on the ice this coming Thursday night as they hop on the bus and head to Waywayseecappo to face the Wolverines (3-5-1)
 
Next home action for the Blues is Friday night when they welcome the Steinbach Pistons.   Puck drop for both games is 7:30.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Blues and Pistons Make Trade

 The Winnipeg Blues and Steinbach Pistons have made a trade.

Blues GM and Head Coach Don Macgillivray has announced Winnipeg has sent 1993 defenseman Matt Franzcyk to Steinbach in exchange for 1991 forward Tyson Price and futures.

Franzcyk has suited up for one game this season with the Portland Winterhawks of the WHL.  Last season he played 8 games with the Blues, as well as suiting up for Moose Jaw and Swift Current (WHL).

Price played 59 games for the Pistons last season, registering 8 goals and  28 points during the regular season.  So far this season Price has two goals and an assist in 8 games.

Monday, October 3, 2011

Offensive Outburst Gives Blues Big Win In Neepawa

Blues Head Coach/GM Don Macgillivray commented on how he likes the way his team has been getting contributions from all four lines on the scoresheet.   And last night in Neepawa was a perfect example of that.

Seven different Blues players lit the lamp as Winnipeg took over sole possession of first in the Addison Division with a 7-0 win over the Natives.

Dustin Pearson, Channing Bresianni, and Jared Morris all scored in the first period.

Jeremy Olynyk, David Lafleche, and Dylan Kelly answered with three of their own in the second, and Jeff Borse rounded out the scoring with a goal in the third.

Going maybe unnoticed was a solid effort in the pipes by Blues Isiah Plett who stopped all 25 shots he faced.

The Blues now lead the Winkler Flyers by two points, but the Flyers have three games in hand.

Notables

Blues

Derek Gingera had three helpers in the win.  That gives him 10 points on the year.
Jeremy Olynyk had a goal and an assist putting him in the team lead with 12 points.
The Blues didn't record a shutout all of last season

Natives

Neepawa is still looking for their first win of the season.  Their record now falls to 0-5-1 on the year
It doesn't get any easier for Neepawa as they get set to face the Winkler Flyers and Selkirk Steelers at next weekends showcase at the MTS Ice Plex

Blues next action is also at the showcase, when they'll face the Steinbach Pistons on Thursday night, then take on the Swan Valley Stampeders on Friday night.

Puck drop for both games is 7:00pm.

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Blues Move Into Tie For First With Win Over Pistons

 The Winnipeg Blues played their second of three straight last night at the MTS Ice Plex, and came out on top with a 4-1 win over the visitng Steinbach Pistons.

The win moves the Blues into a tie for First in the Addison Division with the Winkler Flyers.  The Flyers have 2 games in hand.

Both goaltenders played well in this contest, with Winnipeg's Isiah Plett, and Pistons Brendan Edie making big saves keeping their teams in the game.

The Blues outshot Steinbach 15-7 in the opening period, but managed to put only one puck behind Edie, with Connor Cleverley notching his 3rd of the season.

Winnipeg would get the only marker of the 2nd as well, as Derek Gingera put home his team leading 6th of the year, giving the Blues a 2-0 lead heading into the third.

In the third, Jake Heisinger (4th of season) and Jared Morris (3rd of season)  all but sealed it for the Blues.   Pistons Connor Sisson would end the shutout bid for Plett, but Winnipeg skated away with a 4-1 win.

Notables

Blues

With his goal, Derek Gingera is tied for the league lead in goals with 6.
Paul Bonar had a strong defensive game, as well he added a pair of assists in the win.
Jeremy Olynyk had two assists and leads the Blues with 10 points this season.

Pistons

Pistons record falls to 3-5-0 after 8 games.
Edie falls to 0-3 on the year
Kyle Rous scored his 3rd of the year

Next action for the Blues is tonight when they'll play their 3rd game in three nights, hosting the Neepawa Natives.   The Natives will be looking for their first win of the season.  (0-4-1) 

Puck drop is set for 7:30

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Saints Drop Blues With Three First Period Goals

Three first period goals were enough for the Winnipeg Saints, as they dropped the Winnipeg Blues 4-1 at the MTS Ice Plex Friday night.

And special teams was the catalyst for the Saints. 

Brett Chartier found the back of the net with an unassisted marker, with Paul Crane and Jeff Mitchell each scoring with the man advantage in the opening period.

Former Blue Jason Gardiner assisted on both powerplay goals.

The Saints chased Blues starting netminder Nate Phillips, and Isiah Plett would handle the load for the next two periods.

There was no scoring in the second period, and in the third the clubs exchanged goals, Jake Heisinger for the Blues, and Shane Gingera for the Saints, handing the Saints the 4-1 win.

The win improves the Saints record to 2-4-0, with the Blues falling to 4-2-0.

Next action for the Blues is tonight when welcome the Steinbach Pistons.   Puck drop is set for 7:30.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Blues Drop Steelers For Third Time This Season

The Winnipeg Blues picked up their 4th win in five games, and third against Selkirk so far this season, after dropping the Steelers 6-4 at the MTS Ice Plex.

The win improves the Blues record to 4-1-0 on the season, and drops the Steelers to  1-3-0.

Winnipeg had a pair of first period goals.  Jeff Borse and Dustin Pearson both notched their first of the season, while Parker Thomas had the only reply for the Steelers in the opening frame.

In the second, the Blues dominated, scoring four times.  Connor Cleverley had a pair, while Derek Gingera and Blair Osiowy each added singles, giving Winnipeg a 6-1 lead heading into the third.

Selkirk came out and won the third period, as Winnipeg did everything they could to let Selkirk back in the game, and Selkirk capitalized with three goals, David Conrad with two, and Thomas with his second of the night, but it wasn't enough as Winnipeg held on for a 6-4 win.

Notables:

Blues

Jeff Borse and Connor Cleverley each had 3 point evenings for the Blues.
Channing Bresianni and Kyle Bodnaruk both had two helpers.
Nate Phillips stopped 19 of 23 shots for his third win of the season.  Phillips record improves to 3-0-0 on the year.

Steelers

David Conrad has been stellar this season against Winnipeg.  With his 4 point evening last night, that gives him 12 points on the season to lead the MJHL.  Nine of those points have come in three games against the Blues this season.
Parker Thomas had a great night, scoring a pair while adding a helper in the loss.
Both Steeler netminders saw action last night.  Cory Hyndman started and allowed 4 goals on 13 shots, while Trent Michalick came in in relief and stopped 6 of 8 shots fired his way.

Next action for Winnipeg is this coming Friday night when they'll welcome the Winnipeg Saints (1-4-0, 5th in Addison Division) to the Ice Plex for the first time this regular season.  Puck drop is set for 7:30.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Blues Lose First of Season in Winkler

The Winnipeg Blues were on the wrong end of the final score for the first time this season after being dropped by the Winkler Flyers 4-1.

The Blues came out flying in the first period, but Flyers netminder Corey Koop was the story, stopping all 19 shots he faced in the first period.  Winkler was the only team to light the lamp in the opening frame as Kyle Manlow put the puck behind Blues tender Isiah Plett, giving the Flyers a 1-0 lead after one.

In the second, Jake Heisinger got the Blues on the scoreboard, but Winkler tallied with a pair of their own, one by Ben Reinbolt, the other by Brock Vanderveen, and Winkler would head to the third period with a 3-1 lead.

The Blues would throw another 12 shots at Koop, but he slammed the door shut for Winkler, and Vanderveen would add one more on the night, and the Flyers skated away with a 4-1 win.

Next action for the Blues is this coming Tuesday night when they'll host the Selkirk Steelers.   Puck Drop is set for 7:30 at the Ice Plex.

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Blues Double Up Defending Champs To Remain Undefeated

The Winnipeg Blues continued their great start to the season with their third win in a row, dropping the defending MJHL and Anavet Cup Champion Portage Terriers 6-3 at the MTS Ice Plex.

Derek Gingera notched a pair of goals in the first period, while Jared Morris and Jake Heisinger each lit the lamp as the Blues took a 4-1 lead after the opening frame.

The two teams exchanged goals in the 2nd, with Jeremy Olynyk for the Blues and Shaq Merasty with his 2nd of the game, finding the back of the net, giving the Blues a 5-2 lead going into the third.

The Terriers would get within two on a goal from Brent Wold, but that's as close as they would come as Dylan Kelly put home his 5th of the season into an empty net, giving the Blues a 6-3 win and improving their record to 3-0 to start the 2011/12 campaign.

Blues netminder Isiah Plett picked up his first win of the season, stopping 29 of the 32 shots fired his way.

Terriers Matt Courvrette falls to 0-1 on the year.

Winnipeg had 4 different players with a two point game, and five different players scored, which has been the big story on the season so far.  Every line is contributing.

They'll have to be more disciplined tonight after having the penalty gate opened up 13 times last night in their win, as they get set for a big Addison Division match up against the Winkler Flyers.

The Flyers are also undefeated so far this season, winning their first two games.

Puck drop is set for 7:30.

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Blues Unbeaten After MJHL Opening Weekend

Last year was soooo 2010/11.

The Winnipeg Blues have put the past behind them, and began the 2011/12 campaign with two straight wins in a home and home series against the Selkirk Steelers.

To put that in perspective, the Blues only won two games in a row twice all of last season, and didn't get their first win of the season until game number 9. 

In the season opener, the Blues headed into Selkirk, and doubled the Steelers up 4-2.  Dylan Kelly had a pair, Jeremy Olynik had a single, and Derek Gingera also notched a single against his former team.

In Game two Saturday night at the MTS Ice Plex, the Blues took their home opener 7-4.   Kelly had another two goal performance, while Channing Bresiani, Jared Morris, Cole Murdock, Joel Schreyer, and Gingera all found the back of the net in the win.

Selkirk's David Conrad had a great night for the Steelers in defeat, notching all 4 of the Steelers goals, as well as dropping the mitts in the third period with the Blues Paul Bonar.  

Blue Head Coach and GM Don Macgillivray has been happy with the way the season has started for his club.

"I really like the way every line has been contributing so far this season.  All four lines have been producing and playing really well"

In the two games, seven players have lit the lamp for the Blues.

Both goalies played well last night, even if the score didn't indicate it.   Blues Nate Phillips made the saves he needed to to keep his team ahead, improving to 2-0 on the season,  while Steelers netminder Trent Michalick was under seige from the opening puck drop, and made some big saves for his club to keep them in the game, he falls to 0-2.

Overall, the Blues will take the two wins to start the season, but Macgillivray knows it's a long season, and there's still a lot that needs to improve.

"We have to be more disciplined, and play a full 60 minutes of hockey.  Giving up that powerplay goal late in the third, even though it didn't cost us the game, those are the little things that can cost you points if you don't compete to the end, so we have to get better in those areas."

And the Blues will have a few days off to work on things as they get set to face the defending MJHL and Anavet Cup Champion Portage Terriers next Friday night at the Ice Plex.   Puck drop is set for 7:30.

Monday, August 8, 2011

Former Blue Gregoire Signs with Hometown Jets

Jason Gregoire has come a long way since his time with the Winnipeg Blues. 
After being a part of the Turnbull Cup Champion Blues back in 2005/06,  as well as collecting MJHL Rookie of the Year honors that same year,  Gregoire went south to suit up for the Lincoln Stars of the USHL for the next 2 seasons.  The 2007/08 season saw Gregoire named a first team all star, Forward of the Year, as well as USHL Player of the year after tallying 69 points in 54 games for the Stars.
At the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the New York Islanders chose Gregoire in the 3rd round, 76th overall.
Instead of turning pro, Gregoire decided to go the University route, choosing to attend the University of North Dakota, putting up 109 points in 120 games over three seasons with the Fighting Sioux.
After his playing time in North Dakota, Gregoire used a loophole in the current CBA which allows a player who is no longer in college a chance to sign with another NHL club, as long as the club he was drafted by didn’t sign him.
And Gregoire chose to sign with his hometown Winnipeg Jets.
I had a chance to catch up with the former Blue to find out how he’s doing.

1.  I guess first of all, it’s been quite an off season for you.  How has your summer been?
Summer is always great to come home and recharge the batteries. I spend a lot of time at my cabin, fishing, tubing and a lot of family time too. It was hectic for a while leading up to and shortly after signing but it has been nice and quiet and now I can get into a groove for working out and skating.

2.  You signed with the Jets this off season, there were quite a few teams vying for your services, what made signing with the Jets so appealing to you.
 When I was looking at different teams the important criteria were opportunity to play, a well run organization and a team that has the chance to win. I thought Winnipeg fit that bill to a tee and the fact that it’s in my home town made it even more desirable. The support and energy around the city is unbelievable and I’m really excited to be a part of it.
3.  You would have been like 6 or 7 years old when the Winnipeg Jets left back in 1996.  Do you have many memories of them from when you were a kid?
 I was pretty young so I don’t have a ton of memories but I remember the famous “white out” and hopefully that will be brought back this year.
4.  You played for the Winnipeg Blues back in the 2005/06 season, and it was quite a year as you guys went all the way, winning the Turnbull Cup.  What are some of your favourite memories or what do you remember most about your time as a Blue?
 We had a fairly old team that year but some of my favourite memories came in the playoffs. When we went up to OCN in the finals tied 1-1 in the series and swept them in their own rink back to back nights and came back home and won the 5th game to win the MJ, I just thought it was greatest thing ever; to beat the tough and intimidating Blizzard. Another great memory was after the season was over, seeing so many guys move on to division one schools. Andrew Loewen our goalie, made cards up for everyone thanking us for such a memorable year. That’s just how our team was then. I still keep in touch with a lot of guys from that team including head coach Ken Pearson and assistant Jeff McGill.
5.  What do you remember about the competition or level of hockey in the MJHL when you played.
 Every game was a battle even if the scoreboard didn’t show it. Every team in that league had the ability to beat any team any given night. It’s a great league and was an important step for my progress as a hockey player and person.
6.  After being drafted you chose to go to University instead of going pro.  What was the reasoning behind that and how much did playing NCAA hockey help your development?
 To this day I’m not the biggest guy on any roster and I knew that going the college route gave me the most time to grow and mature physically and mentally. The NCAA has some of the best talent in North America and playing with and against that skill level every night certainly builds your capabilities as a player. Besides the hockey you can work towards a degree which is vital to everybody at some point in time. But on ice you practice 4 or 5 days a week honing in your skills and developing what needs to be improved upon.
7.  What advice would you give to junior players throughout the MJHL about what it takes to get to the next level.
This day and age you need determination and dedication. Guys that don’t want to be there will get weeded out in a hurry because it shows. Even if you think nobody is watching you, somebody always is and whether it’s a lazy back check or a bad penalty, that doesn’t reflect well. You have to work hard on and off the ice and carry yourself in a professional manner. Just remember, if you’re slacking off, somebody out there is working harder than you and they may take your spot. But you won’t get far if you don’t enjoy it because in the end we’re all playing the game we love.
I'd like to thank Jay for taking the time to do this, and it would be great to see him in a Jets jersey this season.  A class act and a great hockey player. 

Friday, August 5, 2011

Veteran Gingera Excited To Get Season Underway

Derek Gingera can’t wait to begin his 4th season of Junior hockey.  

After spending the past 3 seasons as part of the Selkirk Steelers organization, the 20 year old from Winnipeg was acquired by the Blues at the end of last season completing the futures deal that sent Adam Stoykewych to the Steelers back in January.

Training camp is set to get underway very shortly, and for the Winnipeg Blues it’s been a long wait coming off a disappointing 2010/11 campaign.   But Gingera likes what he sees heading into training camp.

“Last season, the Blues were a young squad for the most part, but now with a good core of returning players who are a year older, and combined with the off season acquisitions, I’m confident with the group we have heading into camp”

And confidence hasn’t been a problem for the high scoring forward. 

Last season was Gingera’s best of his junior career, lighting the lamp 33 times, while adding 27 assists.  And he’s confident the best is yet to come.

“Personally as a player I always want my next game to be better than my previous and I treat seasons just like that too.”

And coming so close to a league championship last season with Selkirk, losing in the final to the Portage Terriers, Gingera knows what it takes to win.

“Obviously the team goal is to win a championship but I expect us to compete every night, to be a playoff team and to contend for a championship”

The veteran of three previous MJHL seasons will no doubt bring leadership into a relatively young Blues dressing room, and Winnipeg GM and Head Coach Don Macgillvray just expects Gingera to continue to play the way he’s always played.

"Derek has shown the ability to put the puck in the net, and isn't afraid to go into the dirty areas to do it" adds Macgillvray.   "Combine that with being a great penalty killer and good hockey instincts who has played on a terrific Selkirk squad and his experience will definitely help our team"

The winger will bring a lot of speed and natural scoring touch to the Blues, along with being able to play comfortably in most situations. 

And Gingera, who credits Steve Yzerman as the player he tries to emulate, has been working hard in the off season to make sure he will be ready to play whenever coach Macgillvray calls his number.

“I have been enjoying my summer, getting on the ice and working out as much as possible” adds Gingera.   And with training camp coming soon, I’m trying to get into the best shape possible so I don’t need to do any catching up during camp.”

With the Blues coming off a disappointing season last year, you can bet most players, especially the returning ones, have been chomping at the bit to get back on the ice.  That also includes the Blues coaching staff.

"With main camp getting underway August 26th, there is obviously some excitement about a new season." says Macgillvray.  "I think as a coaching staff we are cautiously optimistic.  Alot of things can change in junior hockey but we are definitely looking forward to getting back at it with our group."

And for Gingera, Macgillvray, and the rest of the Blues, the good news is the wait is almost over.

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Blues Acquire Futures

Winnipeg Blues GM/Head Coach Don Macgillvray announced today the Blues have acquired high scoring 20 year old forward Derek Gingera from the Selkirk Steelers as part of the future considerations deal that sent Adam Stoykewych to the Steelers back on the January 10th deadline.   Gingera had 33 goals and 27 assists in 61 games during the regular season, and notched another 7 goals and 9 assists in 16 playoff games.

As well, the Blues have also acquired 20 year old Defenseman Blair Osiowy from Winkler as part of the futures deal that sent Justin Minoletti to the Flyers.  Osiowy notched 4 goals and 19 assists suiting up in all 62 games last season for the Flyers.  

The Blues also acquired 18 year old forward Jared Morris from the Dauphin Kings, as part of the futures deal that sent Evan Gravenor to Dauphin back on January 6th.   The 18 year old from La Salle had 9 goals and 7 assists in 59 games in his first full MJHL season.

Monday, February 28, 2011

Blues Season Comes To An End

On Saturday night, the Winnipeg Blues season came to an end after being blanked by the Dauphin Kings    4-0.

It was an end to a frustrating season, but one that showed alot of great signs heading into next year.

The Blues started to play some good hockey near the end of the season, and for the players coming back next season, this year was definitely a good learning experience for alot of the players. 

The Blues had twelve OTL's this season.  That was tops in the league.  Winning the close games is something every player needs to learn how to do, and heading into next season hopefully the players use this as a learning experience.

It was a tough start to the season as well, as Winnipeg dropped their first 8 games before getting their first win on October 1st against the Dauphin Kings.

Two of those losses were in a shootout, while another two were in overtime.

Inconsistency was also a problem for the Blues this season.   Winnipeg didn't have a three game winning streak all season.  And an eight game losing streak to start, and a seven game losing streak in the middle of the season was too much to come back from.  But one thing you can't take away was the fact the players were out there giving it all they had.

For Blues fans, the future looks bright.  Channing Bresianni showed some great signs as a 17 year old, and look for him to be a big player in the fold next season.

Jake Heisinger put up 36 points as an 18 year old this season, and will be a solid veteran coming back next season.

It was a disappointing season in terms of where the team finished, but promising for the team as they look ahead towards next season. 

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Borse Hat-trick Leads Blues Past Pistons

By the looks of the last two games, you wouldn't know these two teams were out of the playoff picture.

After losing a tough 4-3 game on Monday to the Pistons, the Blues came out with another solid effort last night and this time came out on top 4-3.

Jeff Borse was stellar all night long, notching a hat trick and making some great defensive plays as well.

Borse opened the scoring in the first, but Steinbach would reply with a short handed tally from Brennan Ritchie late in the period to tie things up after the first.

The second period belonged to the Blues, as Borse would score the next two to complete the hatrick, and Dylan Kelly would also find the back of the net, giving the Blues a 4-1 lead.

Pistons Dylan Dock would get Steinbach late in the second, and the Blue headed to the third with a 4-2 lead.

In the third Steinbach threw everything they had at Blues netminder Charlie Pogue, but could only manage to get one behind him, and the Blues skated away with the 4-3 win.

Pogue was great all night, but especiallly in the third period when Steinbach outshot Winnipeg 16-5.   Overall the Pistons outshot the Blues 43-37 on the night.

Winnipeg now has one game left, it's a rescheduled game against the Dauphin Kings set for this Saturday at 7:30 in Dauphin.

Monday, February 21, 2011

Pistons Get By Blues In OT

With playoffs out of the picture, it was pride on the line for the Winnipeg Blues and Steinbach Pistons.

And both teams showed alot of it, with Steinbach coming out on top 4-3 in overtime in the final home game for the Blues this season.

With a total of 74 shots on net during the game, both goaltenders, Addison Herosian for the Pistons and Charlie Pogue of the Blues weren't too shabby in the pipes.

Steinbachs Russell Trudeau scored the only marker in the first, a short handed tally to give the Pistons a 1-0 lead.

In the second Paul Bonar scored his first of two on the night for the Blues midway through the period.  Steinbach answered right back just over a minute later as Dylan Dock regained the lead for the Pistons.

The Blues battled back to tie it on Jake Heisingers 12th of the year.

Justin Moody would give the Pistons a 3-2 with just nine seconds left in the period.

Bonar was the only player to light the lamp in the third period, sending the game to overtime.

And midway through the extra frame Hartwell Marable ended it, getting the puck behind Pogue for the win.

The Blues have a pair of games left before they wrap up the regular season.

They'll face the Pistons once again, this time in Steinbach, before ending the regular season in a rescheduled game on Saturday night against the Dauphin Kings.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Flyers Take Home And Home VS Blues

The Winkler Flyers are now tied for the Addison Division lead with 72 points after sweeping a weekend home and home against the Winnipeg Blues.

On Friday night the Flyers doubled up the Blues 6-3 at the MTS Ice Plex.

The Flyers now share top spot in the Division with the Selkirk Steelers.

Jake Heisinger, Dylan Kelly, and Patrick Henderson were the Blues scorers, and for the Flyers Seth Ronsberg notched a pair, while Chapen Leblond, Michael Wilgosh, Jordan Neduzak, and Kyle Wells added singles.

The two clubs travelled to Winkler for the second game of the home and home and the result was the same.  The Blues fell behind 3-0 midway through the second period, and the Flyers ended up skating away with a 5-3 win.

Ben Sveinson buried a pair, with Dylan Kelly getting his second in as many nights to round out the Blues scoring.

For the Flyers, Ronsberg, Leblond and Wilgosh once again found the back of the net as they did a night earlier.  Steven Sorenson and Justin Minoletti were the other goal scorers for Winkler.

The Blues finish the season 0-8-1-0 against Winkler in nine meetings between the clubs.

Winnipeg is now off until Thursday, when they'll visit the top team in the MJHL, the Portage Terriers.

Next home action for the Blues is next Saturday when they welcome the Neepawa Natives to the Ice Plex.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Blues Net Five in First Period En Route To Win

The Blues came out firing right from the start last night at the MTS Ice Plex, notching five goals in the first period en route to a 7-3 win over the Winnipeg Saints.

Brett Harvie, Dylan Kelly, Brett Stovin, Jake Heisinger and Jeff Borse all lit the lamp in the opening frame, while Brett Mencik and Shane Gingera answered for the Saints.

In the second Borse added his second of the game, and team leading 20th of the season, and Dustin Pearson put home his 6th of the season, giving the Blues a commanding 7-2 lead after the first two periods.

In the third the Saints would add one thanks to Kyle Bodnaruk, but that would be the end of the scoring as the Blues would skate away with a 7-3 win.

Brett Martyniuk picked up the win for the Blues, making 18 saves in the game while Saints netminder Brent Wolfe stopped 31 of 38 shots he faced.

The Blues are off for a couple days before taking on the Winkler Flyers at the MTS Ice Plex this Friday night.

Puck drop is set for 7:30.

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Gingera, Steelers Sweep Home And Home VS Blues

Derek Gingera continued his torrid pace last night against the Winnipeg Blues, counting in on every goal as the Selkirk Steelers dropped the Winnipeg Blues 4-2 at the MTS Ice Plex.

A night earlier the Steelers won 5-2 in Selkirk.

Derek Gingera took matters into his own hands this weekend, scoring a hat trick in Friday nights win, and Saturday night added a goal and 3 assists.

In total during the two games, Gingera had 4 goals and 3 assists against the Blues.

Winnipeg had a lot of scoring chances, but Steelers netminder Jordan Washburn thwarted the Blues on many occasions.

At games end, Winnipeg had outshot Selkirk 43-25, including 18-9 in the third period.

Patrick Henderson and Peter Logan tallied for the Blues.

It was the last meeting of the regular season between the two clubs.

Next action for the Blues is Tuesday night when they welcome the Winnipeg Saints to the MTS Ice Plex.

Puck drop set for 7:30.

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Selkirk Wins First of Home and Home VS Blues

The Winnipeg Blues have been playing better hockey as of late as they headed into their Friday night game against the Addison Division leading Selkirk Steelers.

And the Steelers showed why their at the top, as they dropped the Blues 5-2.

Selkirk held a 3-0 lead in the second period, but the Blues would add a pair of goals before the period was out. 

Brett Stovin notched his 6th of the campaign, while Jeff Borse put home his team leading 18th.

That's as close as the Blues would come, with the Steelers adding 2 in the third, and Joey Rewucki would slam the door shut on Winnipeg the rest of the way, shoving aside 36 of 38 shots for the 5-2 win.

Blues netminder Charlie Pogue stopped 23 of 27 shots in his direction.

The two teams will meet up again tonight, this time at the MTS Ice Plex.

Puck drop is set for 7:30.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Blues Gaining Momentum

The Winnipeg Blues scored three in the first period on and held on to beat the Steinbach Pistons 5-3 on Sunday night.

The Blues are starting to win the close games they didn't do earlier in the season and in turn have picked up 11 of a possible 14 points in their last seven games.

Jeff Borse had a 3 point night including a pair of goals.  Jake Heisinger, Dylan Kelly and Jeremy Olynyk all lit the lamp for Winnipeg as well.

Brett Martyniuk stopped 16 of the 19 shots he faced in the win.

The Blues have a big week ahead.  On Tuesday night they'll face the Winnipeg Saints who took the first 5 games the clubs played against each other this season, but the Blues have won the last two.

Then on Friday and Saturday night Winnipeg has a home and home with the Addison Division leading Selkirk Steelers.

Next home game for the Blues is Saturday night against the Steelers.   Puck drop is set for 7:30.

Saturday, January 29, 2011

Blues Continue Strong Play

The Winnipeg Blues continued their strong play as of late, coming up with another two points as they dropped the Swan Valley Stampeders 6-5 at the MTS Ice Plex Thursday night.

Winnipeg now has 9 points in their last 6 games, including 4 wins.

Jake Heisinger had a pair, while Justin Remillard, Brett Stovin, Patrick Henderson and Jeff Borse all had singles in the win.

Next action for the Blues was supposed to be Friday night in Dauphin, but because of bad weather conditions the game has been re-scheduled.

The Blues will get set for a home tilt against the Steinbach Pistons this coming Sunday.  Puck drop is set for 6:30 at the Ice Plex.

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Winkler Slips Past Blues

In the third game of a three game in three night stretch, the Winnipeg Blues fell to the Winkler Flyers 5-3 at the MTS Ice Plex.

After collecting seven of a possible eight points in their last four games, including dropping the Winnipeg Saints 5-3 on Saturday night, the Blues were looking to continue their strong play against the Flyers.

Things looked good early on as Jeremy Olynyk opened the scoring for Winnipeg on the powerplay, getting the puck behind Flyer netminder Reed Peters.

Winkler would tie things up and eventually take the lead on a pair of goals from Michael Wilgosh, giving the Flyers a 2-1 lead after one.

Both teams would exchange powerplay goals in the second.  Connor Cleverely capitalized for the Blues while Matt Loopkey answered for Winkler.

In the third, Winkler scored early.  Six seconds in to be exact on a goal from Jordan Neduzak. 

Seth Ronberg would give Winkler a 5-2.  Brett Stovin scored for Winnipeg to get the Blues within two, but that's as close as they'd come as the Flyers continued their dominance of Winnipeg this season, collecting their 7th win in seven games against the Blues 5-3.

Next up for Winnipeg is a home tilt against Swan Valley on Thursday night.

Puck drop is set for 7:30 at the MTS Ice Plex.

Saturday, January 22, 2011

Blues Fall Short In Wayway

The Winnipeg Blues were looking for their third straight win on Friday night in Waywayseecappo, but the Wolverines came out on top 3-2 in a shootout.

Josh Daley had a pair for the Wolverines, while Patrick Henderson and Connor Cleverley each lit the lamp for the Blues.

Overtime settled nothing, and in the shootout, once again Josh Daley put home the final tally, giving Wayway the 3-2 win.

Brett Martyniuk had another strong game between the pipes for the Blues, stopping 31 of 33 shots, including 14 in the second period. 

Winnipeg gets right back on the ice again tonight when they host the Winnipeg Saints.  The Blues are coming off their first win of the season over the Saints last Sunday night 3-2.

Puck drops tonight at 7:30 at the MTS Ice Plex.

Monday, January 17, 2011

Blues Make It Two In A Row

The Winnipeg Blues made it two wins in a row on Sunday night, dropping the Winnipeg Saints 3-2 at the MTS Ice Plex.

It was their first win over the Saints this season, and the first time they've won consecutive games since a pair of wins over Swan Valley and Steinbach back in late October.

Patrick Henderson scored twice in the win, while defenseman Paul Bonar notched his 13th of the season, tying him for the team lead with Dylan Kelly.

Brett Martyniuk was once again solid, stopping 21 of 23 shots fired his direction.

One of the things the Blues needed to do to begin turning things around was lowering the goals against, and in the last two games they've allowed only five goals, and they've both been wins.

Winnipeg will be looking for their first three game winning streak of the season beginning next Friday night they they head to Waywayseecappo to face the Wolverines. 

The Blues are 2-1-0-0 against Wayway this season.

It's the first of a three game in three night stretch which will see them return home for a Saturday rematch with the Saints, and a Sunday home tilt against the Winkler Flyers.

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Home Sweet Home

The Winnipeg Blues played in their first home game in over a month on Friday night, and exploded to a 9-3 win over the Steinbach Pistons.

After falling 9-2 on Tuesday night in Selkirk, the Blues came out ready to play against the Pistons.

Nine different skaters found the back of the net, ending the Blues 4 game losing streak in a big way.

Dustin Pearson, Paul Bonar, Andrew Hewitt, Dylan Kelly, Brett Harvie, Austin Lauder, Patrick Henderson, Jake Heisinger, and newly acquired Jeremy Olynyk lit the lamp in the win.

Brett Martyniuk also had a strong game, stopping 28 of the 31 shots that came his way.

Winnipeg will look to make it two in a row this Sunday night when the Winnipeg Saints visit the MTS Ice Plex.

The Saints have won all 5 meetings between the two clubs this season.

Puck drop is set for 6:30.

Monday, January 10, 2011

Blues Ship Three Players On Deadline Day

The Winnipeg Blues were busy on junior hockey trade deadline day.

Blues Head Coach and GM Don Macgillivray announced that the club has traded  1990 Defenseman Justin Minoletti to the Winkler Flyers.  In return, Winnipeg received the list rights to 1993 forward Warren Callis who's currently suiting up for the Winnipeg Wild.  Callis has 26 points in 32 games so far this season.

As well, Winnipeg has shipped 1990 forward Adam Stoykewych to the Selkirk Steelers for future considerations.   And it won't take long for Stoykewych to face his former team, as Selkirk and Winnipeg go head to head tomorrow night in Selkirk.

And Jason Gardiner is also on the move as the 1991 forward heads to the Winnipeg Saints for future considerations.

The Blues would like to thank Justin, Adam, and Jason for all their contributions to the organization, and would like to welcome Warren to the Blues.

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Tough Weekend For Blues

The Winnipeg Blues woes continued up north this past weekend, falling 6-2 to OCN on Friday night, and losing 3-2 in a shootout to Swan Valley on Saturday.

That's the Blues third straight loss, and 10th in their last 11 games overall.

The Blues record is not impressive, sitting at 10-24-3-6 overall this season so far, but they have been right there in a lot of their games.

Winnipeg has 11 one goal losses this season.  Six in shootouts, and three in overtime and a pair in regulation.  They just haven't found a way to either get that big save or that timely goal when they've needed it.

If the Blues found a way to win even half of those 11 games, they'd be right in the pack.   They haven't won them, but they seem to be a team that's right on the brink.

With 18 games left in the regular season, the Blues find themselves on the outside looking in on the playoff picture at this point, and would have to put together a pretty impressive run to get into the playoffs, but it's still not out of the question. 

It has to start with a win, and they'll get their next chance this coming Tuesday night in Selkirk, as they play their 10th and last game of their 10 game road trip. 

Next home action for the Blues is next Friday when they host the Steinbach Pistons.  It's the Blues first home game since December 12th.

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Blues Fall In Winkler

The Winkler Flyers continued their dominance of the Winnipeg Blues this season, downing them 4-2 on Tuesday night, and 6-0-0-0 against the Blues so far this season.

Winkler opened the scoring in the first, as well as the second, but the Blues showed some resiliance and came back to tie the game on goals by David Lafleche and the reigning MJHL Player of the Week Jake Heisinger.

But in the third the Flyers would put the game away, outshooting Winnipeg 13-4, and adding a pair of goals by Seth Ronsberg and Chapen Lablond and take the game 4-2.

Winnipeg now falls 1-6-0-0 on their current 10 game road swing, and 10-23-3-5 on the year.  Next action for the Blues is this Friday night when they head north to face OCN.

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Blues Head Into 2011 With A Win

Happy New Year to one and all.

The MJHL returned from their christmas break this past Thursday night, with the Blues and Saints taking to the ice in St. Adolphe.

With the World Under 17 Championships taking place at the MTS Ice Plex, the Blues are in the midst of a 10 game road swing, and it didn't get off to a great start before the break.

Winnipeg lost their first four road games and 6 straight overall heading into the break and were looking to come back with a win against the Saints on Thursday night.

And they had them on the ropes, leading 4-2 after two periods, but in the third the Saints came out flying and potted three, giving them a 6-5 win. 

The Saints continued their dominance of the Blues this season, having gone 5-0-0-0 over the Blues so far.

Winnipeg didn't have time to worry about the loss because they'd be back on the ice about 18 hours later, with an New Years Eve afternoon tilt in Selkirk against the Steelers.

And in front of an announced crowd of just under a thousand at the Selkirk Rec Center, the Blues spoiled Selkirks New Years party, dropping the Steelers 6-4, and in doing so snapping a 7 game losing skid.

Dylan Kelly had a pair, with Dustin Pearson, Austin Lauder, Ben Sveinson, and Jeff Borse all collecting singles in the win.

Jake Heisinger added three helpers as well for the Blues who's record now sits at 10-22-3-5 as we enter 2011.

Winnipeg has a few days off now before heading to Winkler on Tuesday night to face the Flyers in Game seven of the ten game road swing.

The next home action for the Blues isn't until the middle of the month when they'll welcome the Steinbach Pistons on January 14th.