2000-01 Buccaneers Press Releases
For Immediate Release September 20, 2000
Carroll To Coach USHL In 4Nations Tournament
The Des Moines Buccaneers are pleased to announce that Head Coach and General Manager Tom Carroll will be the Head Coach for the USHL team in the upcoming 4Nations Tournament. The tournament will be held November 6th-13th in Fussen, Germany. The 4Nations is a highly respected international competition and showcases the different styles between North American and European hockey. The USHL team will be made up of all-stars and will include players from the Buccaneers. Carroll is excited about the tournament saying, "it is a great opportunity to work with elite players in international competition and to represent the United States Hockey League." The 4Nations tournament was held last year in Des Moines and involved teams from Finland, Germany, Switzerland, and the USHL.
For Immediate Release October 1, 2000
Mantua Named USHL Defensive Player of the Week
Mike Mantua, a 5-foot-11, 175-pounder, started the season with a 4-0 shutout of the Waterloo Black Hawks on Friday night. The Northville, Michigan, native turned around on Saturday night and only relinquished one goal against Team USA in a 7-1 win. In the two games combined, the Western Michigan recruit saved 50 of 51 shots. His .980 save-percentage and 1.00 goals-against average lead the league in the young season. The Buccaneers sit 2-0 with four points and tied with Sioux Falls for the lead in the West Division.
For Immediate Release November 2, 2000
Midget Buc Bowl Roaring Success!
Congratulations to Detroit Compuware, Champions of the 16-team tournament hosted by the Des Moines Buccaneers, October 5-8. Team Illionois was second, followed by Team Ohio and the Pike's Peak Minors.
On behalf of the Buccaneer Board of Directors, I would sincerely like to express our sincerest gratitude to all of the dozens of volunteers who gave so much of their time and efforts that made the 2000 Midget Buc Bowl and overwhelming success. Without their generous support this ambitious event could not have had such a positive impact on the 250 hockey players who participated.
A big round of applause to due to USHL Referee-in-Chief Scott Brand, his staff of hard-working officials, Chuck Ill and all of the local referees and linemen who kept the 30+ games under control and on time.
Keeping two rinks clean and functional for the four day event, which included a sell out Buccaneer/Omaha Lancer game was no easy task. But Jeff Lindquist and his staff put in many, many extra hours to accomplish just that. We are indebted to them! Julie Naert (Metro Ice Sports Arena) and Robin McClelland (Metro Ice Sports Facility) made sure that each rink was operating a peek of perfection throughout the entire weekend. We received many compliments and thank-yous; from players, coaches and fans of each of the sixteen participating teams.
Ellis Moose, III
President
DES MOINES BUCCANEERS
For Immediate Release November 3, 2000
Mantua Named USHL/Goalies' World Magazine Goalie of the Month
Buccaneers backstop atop the standings at the end of October
The United States Hockey League (USHL) announced today that Mike Mantua of the Des Moines Buccaneers has been named the USHL/Goalies' World Magazine Goalie of the Month for October, including the last two weeks of September.
Mantua, a 5-foot-10, 185-pound native of Northville, Michigan, played in eight of ten games during the first month of the season, tallying 460 minutes and a 6-2-0 record. He faced 228 shots, allowing 19 goals for a 2.48 goals-against average and a .923 save percentage. He leads the league in wins, third in minutes played, and fourth in both saves and save percentage.
The Western Michigan University recruit started the season with a 4-0 shutout against Waterloo on September 22. The following night he only relinquished one goal against Team USA in a 7-1 win. Those two performances helped him garner the first week's Defensive Player of the Week award.
The 20-year-old's early season play also led to him being selected as one of two goaltenders to represent the USHL at the Four Nations Tournament in Fussen, Germany next week.
"Mike has been a great competitor for us the last two years," said Buccaneers Head Coach Tom Carroll. "He has done a wonderful job night in and night out. This is a very deserving honor for him."
Goalies' World Magazine, a publication dedicated solely to goaltending, will present Mantua with a personalized plaque recognizing him for his outstanding performance.
Goalies' World will honor the USHL Goalie of the Month five more times during the season, and will honor the USHL Goalie of the Year at the conclusion of the season. For more information on Goalies' World, visit their web site at www.goaliesworld.com or call (418) 847-0861.
For Immediate Release November 13, 2000
Paul Morrissey Named USHL Defensive Player of the Week
Morrissey, 19, a 5-foot-11, 185-pound Winchester, Massachusetts native turned away 60 of 63 shots for a 0.950 save percentage in two Buccaneer victories. In a 4-3 overtime win against the Green Bay Gamblers Friday, he stopped 40 of 43 shots, including 21 in the 3rd period alone. On Saturday, Morrissey earned his first shutout of the season, blocking 23 Rochester Mustang shots as the Buccaneers won 5-0. Des Moines is second in the West Division with 23 points and third in overall league standings.
For Immediate Release November 22, 2000
Different, But Equally Important Roles
By Craig Hagkull
One of the most difficult things for players entering the USHL is accepting a different role than he had played earlier in his career in high school or midgets. The majority of the players entering the league were the leading scorers on their team or even their leagues. With the players in the USHL being up to 20 years old and so much bigger, stronger, and faster than high school and midget players the level of play can be extremely challenging. Several players on the Buccaneers are in this position of adapting to new roles and have accepted them for the good of the team.
Andrew Leach, a native of Altumont, NY comes to the Buccaneers from the Capital District Selects of the Eastern Junior Hockey League. In the 1999-2000 season Andrew compiled an impressive 42 points on 22 goals and 20 assists. However, this season is different for Andrew in that he is not in a scorers role but one of an all-around solid two-way forward, and he has responded with some big hits and crucial blocked shots. I knew coming in that I would have to play a different role because the league was bigger and better. Playing less and in a different role than I did last year is tough at times but I am becoming a better player and feel that my contributions are helping the team win. Working on the defensive aspects and improving my play without the puck will only help me down the road, said Andrew.
Luke Flaig is another Buccaneer that is playing in somewhat unfamiliar territory. The all-time leading scorer at Eden Prairie High School in Eden Prairie, MN Luke has found that points are harder to come by in the USHL. You don't have nearly as much time with the puck to make decisions as you did in high school. The players are more aggressive and close on the puck very quickly, said Luke. Like Andrew, Luke has worked hard on his game and his contributions don't always show up on the score sheet. He is excellent on draws and has really worked hard on his play in the defensive zone. Luke has also shown his offensive upside with a couple of huge timely goals and has been picked to be the first skater in a couple of shoot-outs. I am looking at it as a learning experience and a way to make myself better. To play Division 1 you don't just need to score but you also need to be a complete player and I am working on that, stated Luke.
Goaltender Mike Dowers comes to the Bucs from Thief River Falls, MN where he was the number one goalie for his high school team. This season Mike finds himself playing behind Mike Mantua, and Paul Morrissey. However, that has not affected his work ethic in practice or his desire to get better, if anything it has fueled it. Playing behind two great goalies like Mike and Paul has helped me to improve my game by watching how they prepare for both games and practice. Coming to JR's where we can play 85 games from high school where we play 25 is different because you have to change your mental approach to the game. I will do whatever I can to make the team better, said Mike.
The Buccaneers are very fortunate to have players like these who have accepted roles other than they first imagined. Their unselfishness and willingness to put the team first has won the respect of not only the fans and coaches, but more importantly their teammates.
For Immediate Release December 4, 2000
Klema and Campbell to Top Prospects Tourney
David Klema, and Joe Campbell have been invited to participate in the Top Prospects tournament in Detroit, Michigan from December 4th-7th. The tournament will feature the top pro prospects from the USHL, NAHL, and AWHL is a great honor for David and Joe. The guys will play games on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday and then head back to Des Moines. All told, Joe and David will have played 8 games in 9 days.
For Immediate Release January 13, 2001
BUCS SPORT NEW LOOK FOR SECOND HALF
By Craig Hagkull
The Des Moines Buccaneers are sporting a new look for the second half of the 2000-2001 season. Head Coach and General Manager Tom Carroll and his staff have made some changes to the roster that will benefit the team.
The Buccaneers added forward Gus Groslie in a trade from the Chicago Steel who added former Bucs Tony Tomaino and Rene Gauthier. Gus is originally from Moorhead, MN and played last season with the Fargo-Moorhead Ice Sharks. A University of Nebraska-Omaha signee he brings both grit and scoring ability to the Bucs forward unit. Gus was also a member of the USHL all-star team that went over to Germany to play in the 4-Nations Tournament with Doug Meyer, Mike Mantua, and Wade Chiodo.
The Buccaneers are also excited about several other new additions to the roster.
Defenseman Jason Reimers has joined the team from the University of Wisconsin. Reimers is coming off of a knee injury and is using the second half of the season as a rehab stint to not only help his knee but also get back in the flow of playing hockey games for the first time in over a year. Jason will be valuable to the Buccaneers in a regular shift as well as quarterbacking the team on the power play from the point.
Zachary Schwan is another college player that is coming to Des Moines to improve his game. Having played at Clarkson this season and for the Capital Districts of the Eastern Junior League last year he will bring great speed to the Bucs. Having put up 95 points for the Capital Districts last season with Buccaneer Andrew Leach the team will expect him to bring a high energy level to the locker room.
Jeff Yurecko, like Schwan, is a member of the Bucs after starting the season in college. He played for the Fighting Sioux of North Dakota before joining the Bucs in the second week of December. Jeff is 6’3” 210 lb. power forward who possesses good speed for his size and a bullet wrist shot that the coaching staff expects him to use at every available opportunity.
Jim Scatchell joins Des Moines from the Dubuque Fighting Saints where he was the captain. A right shot defenseman Jim comes to the Bucs in a trade exchange for Paul Baumgartner. A native of Spencer, NY Jim is not a huge defenseman at 6’0” 180 but plays a tough, physical game that will add to the “D” corps.
With the trading deadline being the 15th of January the Buccaneers are pleased with the outlook for the second half. The core remains the same but these additions will help the team reach the new level as crunch time approaches.
Buccaneers get All Star Nods
Five players at the All-Star/Prospect game in Cedar Rapids will represent the Des Moines Buccaneers on January 23, 2001. Joining the All Star team will be Doug Meyer, Ryan Bennett, and Mike Mantua. Representing the top prospect team, made up of top draft eligible kids, will be David Klema, and Joe Campbell. The entire Buccaneers organization is proud of these athletes.
Gengler returns to Buccaneers
Andrea Gengler has returned to the Des Moines Buccaneers after leaving to work for the Columbus Blue Jackets of the NHL. She will resume her previous role of Director of Marketing. The Buccaneers gladly welcome her back.
For Immediate Release January 22, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
January Prospect Draft
The Buccaneer coaching staff have released the January Prospect Draft list. The Prospect Draft gives each USHL team 9 players that they have the rights to recruit (this does not mean that the players will be part of the teams). The 9 players are made up of 4 from our protected team (Duluth East High School) and 5 at-large players.
| Position | Name | School or Team | Year |
| F | Burish, Adam | Edgewood HS, Madison | Sr |
| F | Collins, Chris | Taft | Soph |
| G | Hoehne, Dan | Duluth East | Sr |
| F | Kollar, Tommy | Duluth East | Jr |
| F | Licari, Nick | Duluth East | Jr |
| F | Miskovich, Matt | Grand Rapids HS | Jr |
| D | Ross, Ian | Hibbing HS | Jr |
| F | Salmela, Evan | Team Wisconsin | Sr |
| D | Tardy, Weston | Duluth East | Sr |
For Immediate Release January 23, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Bucs Assist Food Bank of Iowa with Souper Bowl Food Drive
The Des Moines Buccaneers players and fans, along with partners Valley West Mall, Younkers and Star 102.5, collected around 1,000 non-perishable food items for the Food Bank of Iowa at the first annual “Souper Bowl” Food Drive on Sunday, January 28th. Between 200-300 fans brought their favorite can of soup (and other non-perishables) to Younkers Court at Valley West Mall, where they were able to meet the Bucs, and register to win a $500 mall gift certificate, a team autographed Bucs jersey, a Blade Scooter from Younkers, or a Star Prize Pack. Any fan bringing 5 or more canned food items received a free gift.
The Buccaneers will deliver all the food that was collected in the “Souper Bowl” food drive to the Food Bank of Iowa at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 31st.
Bucs Kick off “SOUPER BOWL” Weekend with Home & Away Series
The Des Moines Buccaneers (19-13-2) kick off their first-ever “Souper Bowl” food drive weekend with a home and away series against the Waterloo Black Hawks (16-16-1). Friday night, January 26th, the Bucs host the Black Hawks for Budweiser/Lazer 103.3 “Human Puck” Night. The Buccaneers are encouraging fans to start “Souper Bowl” weekend by bringing their favorite can of soup (or other non-perishable food items) to the game on Friday night. Game time is 7:35 p.m., and tickets are available by calling the Metro Ice Sports Arena at 515-278-9757.
Saturday night, the Bucs head to Waterloo for Game 2 of the home and away series. Des Moines is 1-1 against the Black Hawks this season, who are 4-5-1 in their last 10 games. Game time is 7:05 p.m., and fans can catch all the action on AM 940 KXTK.
Sunday, “Souper Bowl” weekend wraps up with a food drive at Valley West Mall to benefit the Food Bank of Iowa. The “Souper Bowl” will be held in the Lower Level Younkers Court from 12-2 p.m. Fans can come out to meet the Buccaneers, get an autographed team poster, and register to win a $500 Valley West Mall gift certificate or an autographed Bucs jersey! Any fan bringing 5 or more non-perishable food items will receive a free gift from Younkers or Star 102.5, who will broadcast live from the event. For more information on Buccaneers games or the “Souper Bowl”, contact Andrea Gengler, Buccaneers’ Director of Marketing and Promotions, at 515-278-9757.
Bucs Emerge from 2-Game Weekend with 4 Points
The Des Moines Buccaneers snapped a four-game losing streak this past weekend with wins both at home and on the road. Friday night, January 19th, the Bucs hosted the Chicago Steel and defeated them 6-5 in overtime. Six different Buccaneers scored in the victory. Saturday, January 20th, Des Moines was on the road in Rochester, Minnesota, to take on the Mustangs. The Bucs beat them 2-1, improving their record to 19-13-2. Des Moines now has 40 points, putting them in fourth place in the USHL’s Western Division.
For Immediate Release February 5, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Bucs Gear Up for 1 Home, 2 Road Game Weekend
The Des Moines Buccaneers head west again this Friday night, to Kearney, Nebraska, where they will face the Tri-City Storm (18-15-5) for the fourth time this season. The Bucs are 2-1 against the Storm in their first three meetings. Game time Friday is 7:05 p.m.
Saturday night, the Bucs play their only home game of the weekend when they host the Dubuque Fighting Saints (9-23-4). Des Moines is 2-0 in regular season play against the Saints this year. Hy-Vee and the Hawk 97.3 will sponsor the “Grocery Cart 500” race; the winning “driver” will win a prize package that includes a $100 Hy-Vee Gift Card. Game time is 7:35 p.m. Tickets are available by calling the Metro Ice Sports Arena at 515-278-9757.
Sunday, the Buccaneers are back on bus, headed for Illinois to play the Chicago Steel (15-21-4). Des Moines is 2-0 against the Steel this season. Game time is 7:05 p.m.
Fans can catch Buccaneers play-by-play action in two places: on the radio, at AM 940 KXTK, or on the web, at www.bucshockey.org.
Fan wins new 2001 Jeep Wrangler at Bucs game on Feb. 3rd
For the second time in three seasons, a fan has won a brand new vehicle in the Bud Mulcahy Jeep Shoot, which takes place during every 2nd Intermission at Des Moines Buccaneers games. Dave Feibo of Pella purchased a souvenir program at the Bucs game on Saturday, February 3rd, and found the lucky winner stamp on the Bud Mulcahy Jeep ad, which earned him a spot in the Bud Mulcahy Jeep Shoot for the evening. Standing just behind the blue line nearest the goal, Feibo had one chance to shoot the puck into a hole around 3 _” inches wide on the Jeep Shoot board. His shot sailed through the hole, winning him a brand new 2001 Jeep Wrangler from Bud Mulcahy Jeep, located at East 2nd and Locust!
“Bud Light Bubble Zone” bubble hockey tournament scheduled for February 14th
The “Bud Light Bubble Zone”, a nationally touring bubble hockey tournament, is coming to the Metro Ice Sports Arena Lounge on Wednesday, February 14th. Bud Light will be setting up a 16 x 32 simulated arena with 5 Bubble Boy hockey machines, then Round Guy and the folks from KGGO will host a bubble hockey tournament from 7 p.m. to midnight. Concessions and beer will be available. The tournament is open to the public (must be 21 years or older), and 2-person teams are encouraged to come out and enter. The winning 2-person team from the Metro Ice Sports Arena tournament gets a trip to the Bubble Boy regionals in Kansas City, including hotel and spending money. The KC champion will then win an awesome trip to the Stanley Cup finals, including round trip air, hotel, game tickets, and Bubble Boys merchandise!
For Immediate Release February 12, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Mike Mantua Honored
The United States Hockey League (USHL) announced today that goaltender Mike Mantua has been named USHL/Let's Play Hockey Defensive Player of the Week for the week ending February 5, 2001.
Mantua, 20, a 5-foot-10, 185-pound native of Northville, Mich., garnered his third Defensive Player of the Week award (Sept. 25, Dec. 4) after collecting a 2-1 record with 99 saves. Tuesday (Jan. 30) the Bucs traveled to West Division leader Lincoln and came away with a 6-2 win. Mantua stopped 48 of 50 shots, leading to Lincoln's first home regulation loss of the season. On Friday (Feb. 2), the Buccaneers traveled to Sioux Falls and went home with a 5-4 victory. The Western Michigan University recruit stopped 37 of 41 shots, leading Des Moines to its seventh straight win. The Bucs ended the week with a 3-2 loss to Team USA on Saturday (Feb. 3). Mantua turned aside 14 shots in the loss. On the season, the Team USA member in the USHL Prospects/All-Star Game has a 18-11-0 record with a 3.65 GAA and a .895 save- percentage in 29 games played. The wins put Des Moines at 24-14-2 for 50 points and fourth place in the West Division, and fifth position for the playoffs.
For Immediate Release February 14, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Scouting Report, February 14, 2001
By Craig Hagkull
With a 9-1 record in their last ten games the Buccaneers are playing their best hockey of the season and will look to continue that this week. On Thursday, February 15th the Bucs will travel to Sioux Falls to play the Stampede. Sioux Falls has a record of 30-10-2 and is in second place in the West division. The Stampede have struggled lately with a 4-5 record in their last 9 games and some key losses in Thomas Vanek (collarbone), Jamie Mattie (foot), and Chad LaRose who left to play major junior in the OHL. However, this is not a team that the Bucs can take lightly because they still possess many weapons to hurt you with. Mike Doyle currently is in second place in the USHL scoring race to Lincoln’s Brandon Bochenski by one point with 57 points, and teammate James Massen is only 5 points behind with 53. Sioux Falls currently has the most successful power play in the league at 29% so the Buccaneers will need to play disciplined hockey and stay out of the penalty box. Zach Sikich is the number one goalie for the Stampede. He is a big goalie who plays his angles well and takes away the lower half of the net. The Bucs will need to drive the net hard and throw rebounds up high to the top corners. Look for this game to be a high paced one with the transition game in the neutral zone being a huge part of the contest.
On Saturday, February 17th the Bucs return home to play the Tri-City Storm. Des Moines has not played the Storm since November 18, 2000 when the Bucs spoiled the home opener in Kearney, NE. With a record of 19-15-6 the Storm, like the Bucs, are also playing their best hockey of the season with a 7-1 record in the last 8 games. The leading scorer on the Storm is Konrad Reeder with 20 goals and 15 assists for 35 points. Defenseman Greg Zemple has committed to the University of Vermont for the next season. Brend Buckler has been playing very well in the net as of late and has a goals against average of only 2.05. The Storm is well coached by Jim Hillman, as evidenced by them being the second least penalized team in the league. The Storm are in their first season after moving from the Twin Cities where they were the Vulcan’s and won the National Championship last season. On a sad note forward Mark Pohl is out indefinitely due to injuries he suffered during a collision against the end boards. He experienced some paralysis for about 4 hours but has recovered.
For Immediate Release February 15, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Youth Hockey Night on Friday, Feb. 23rd: Free Ticket to Youth Players
Attention all Des Moines Youth Hockey Association players! Friday, February 23rd is Youth Hockey Night at the Bucs game against the Chicago Steel, and that means each youth hockey player can receive a FREE TICKET to the game! All you need to do is call the Metro Ice Sports Arena office at 278-9757 or stop in for your ticket, then wear your jersey to the game and show everyone your true colors! There will be a Mite game on the ice during the intermission, along with fun (and free) activities all night long.
When you call or stop into the Arena office, be sure to tell them when ordering your tickets for the game that you’re a youth hockey player…they’ll check your name off the list and get you a free ticket. Don’t forget to wear your jersey to the game!
Fan Bus Trip to Sioux City/Tri-City Planned
Join the fun on the fan bus trip to Sioux City, Iowa and Kearney, Nebraska for the Bucs’ last two regular season games! The Bucs hit the road to play the Sioux City Musketeers Friday, March 23rd, and the Tri-City Storm on Saturday, March 24th…and you can be there, cheering them on to victory!
The bus will leave the Metro Ice Sports Arena on Friday the 23rd, and head to Sioux City. After the game, you’ll spend the night in the Council Bluffs/Omaha area, then Saturday; it’s off to Kearney for free time during the day and the final regular season game at 7:05 p.m. The fan bus will head back to Des Moines after the game.
The fan bus trip is $115 per person, and the cost includes bus, tickets to both games, and hotel accommodations based on double occupancy. For more information, email Paulette Taylor: taylord53@aol.com. Deadline for sign-up is March 2nd, so if you’re interested, email for information soon.
For Immediate Release February 17, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Bucs to present second annual Tips 4 Kids project
On Thursday, March 1st, the Des Moines Buccaneers will hang up their skates and put on aprons for the second annual Tips 4 Kids project to benefit the Heart Connection and YESS. The entire ‘00-’01 Bucs squad, along with on-air personalities from KCCI and 95 KGGO, will be waiting tables from 5:00-8:30 p.m. at Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery, 4508 University Avenue, and ALL tips go the Heart Connection and Youth Emergency Services and Shelter. Any fan that donates over $20 will receive a free Tips 4 Kids shirt, and fans may also have a photo taken on the spot with their favorite player/server! No reservations are necessary for this evening of food and fun with the Des Moines Buccaneers. For more information, contact Andrea Gengler, Buccaneers Director of Marketing, at 515-278-9757.
Bucs kick off 3-game weekend with two at home
The Des Moines Buccaneers (26-16-2) will lead off a three game weekend at home this Friday night, February 23rd, against the Chicago Steel (18-22-4). This will be the fourth and final regular season meeting for the two teams this year; the Bucs have beaten the Steel in each meeting so far. Friday is Youth Hockey Night at the Metro Ice Sports Arena, and all Des Moines Youth Ice Hockey players receive a free ticket to the game (call to order soon…tickets available while supplies last). The evening will also feature a mite youth hockey game between periods, and families will love the antics of balloon artist and stiltwalker Shawn Gregory, who will be making free balloon hats and animals for kids at the game. Game time is 7:35 p.m.
Saturday night, the Bucs are on home ice again for game two of the weekend to take on the Sioux Falls Stampede (33-10-2), who are currently battling with Lincoln for first place in the USHL. Des Moines is 2-3 against the Stampede; this will be their final meeting of the regular season. Saturday’s game is sponsored by KDSM Fox 17, who will present the evening’s on-ice activities. Fans will also enjoy Mardi Gras bead tosses throughout the night. Game time is 7:35 p.m.
Sunday, Des Moines heads west to battle West Division rival Sioux City (19-20-5). This will be the fourth of six meetings this season; Des Moines is 2-0-1 against the Musketeers. Game time in Sioux City is 4:05 p.m.
All Des Moines Buccaneers games are broadcast live on AM 940 KXTK and also on the Bucs’ website, www.bucshockey.org. Tickets are available by calling the Metro Ice Sports Arena at 515-278-9757.
For Immediate Release February 20, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
NHL and Birthday For Smrek
Congratulations and happy birthday to former Buccaneer Peter Smrek, who celebrated his 22nd birthday in a St. Louis Blues uniform while playing the Chicago Blackhawks. The St. Louis vs Chicago game was his fourth NHL game.
For Immediate Release February 23, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
First Annual Lunch with the Buccaneers!
Hey Buc Fans join us for lunch at Zachary’s Sports Bar & Grille off of University and 22nd in West Des Moines on Friday, March 9th at 12:15. In attendance will be Head Coach and General Manager Tom Carroll and the rest of his coaching staff along with several players. Come listen to TC as he talks briefly about that night’s game against Dubuque, the upcoming play-offs, and answer questions.
Cost of the lunch is $10.00 and includes food (excluding dinner entrees), any non-alcoholic beverage with refills, and tip. Checks can be made out in care of the Des Moines Buccaneers at the luncheon and then the Bucs will take care of the bill. Attendance is limited to 30 people and reservations can be made by e-mailing Craig Hagkull at bucswear@aol.com, or by signing up in the Pirates Cove. Please include a daytime phone number that you can be reached. Hope to see you at Zachary’s! GO BUCS!
For Immediate Release February 27, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Upcoming games – Scouting Report
by Craig Hagkull
With only 9 games left in the regular season the Buccaneers have a record of 29-16-4 and are only 2 points out of home ice advantage for the play-offs. This fact makes this weekend’s games huge for the Bucs.
On Saturday, March 3rd Des Moines will travel to Lincoln, NE to take on the Stars. Lincoln is currently in first place overall with a record of 34-5-6 and winning percentage of 82%. The Buccaneers last played Lincoln on January 30th and came away with a 6-2 victory in Lincoln. The Stars players will certainly have that fact in the back of their minds on Saturday. Leading the way for the Stars is a talented crop of forwards including Chris Fournier (65 points), Brandon Bochenski (63 points), Marco Peluso (47 points), John Snowden (45 points), and Preston Callander (43 points in 36 games). On the blue line the Stars are lead by Andy Schneider with 31 points making him the 4th highest scoring defenseman in the league. Lincoln is also very strong in the net with both Beau Fritz and Justin Johnson ranking in the top 5 in the league in goals against average.
The Buccaneers need to focus on a couple of things to be successful against Lincoln.
- Transition play: Lincoln does a very good job of going from defense to offense in the neutral zone. The Bucs must stay disciplined within their neutral zone system and avoid getting running around.
- Use size to advantage: Des Moines really used their size in working the forecheck in the last meeting.
- 5 on 5 hockey: With the second best power play in the league (percentage wise) Lincoln is very dangerous with a man advantage. The Bucs need to play disciplined and play 5 on 5.
For Immediate Release March 5, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Yurecko’s Level Of Play Lifts Bucs
By Craig Hagkull
With the play-offs fast approaching coaches around the league are looking for players on their teams to raise the level of their play. Des Moines is very fortunate to have such a player in Jeff Yurecko.
A native of Edina, MN Jeff played the last year and a half at the University of North Dakota, which won the 2000 NCAA championships before joining the Buccaneers in December. The USHL wasn’t unknown to Jeff since his brother Joe played for Twin Cities, Sioux City, and Fargo during the 1995-1996, and 1996-1997 seasons. “I decided to come to Des Moines because I knew Coach Carroll very well from when he recruited me for Notre Dame out of Edina High School. Knowing coach along with the reputation Des Moines has made the decision to leave school much easier,” stated Jeff.
The high level of play in the USHL was also a factor in his decision to leave school. “ I feel that the jump from high school to the USHL is a bigger one than for the USHL to Division 1 college hockey. In high school you might have 1 or 2 guys on a team that are going to continue playing hockey after graduating. In the USHL everyone can play, and a lot of them will be very good players in college,” remarked Jeff.
At 6’3” and 205 lbs. Jeff is an imposing power forward who uses his size and strength to win battles in the corner and create scoring opportunities. Possessing the best wrist shot on the team he has scored several of his goals flying down the right side or slot and beating the goaltender cleanly. He also excels at positioning himself in front of the net and banging home rebounds.
With 9 goals and 5 assists for 14 points in the last nine games Jeff has been on a major tear in the month February. He attributes his increased production to his high confidence level. “ I hadn’t played as much as I would’ve liked at North Dakota and because of that my confidence was down. Playing a regular shift plus special teams in Des Moines has allowed me to regain that. I am playing more aggressively and it has helped me to score some points, “said Jeff.
Yurecko has not only helped out the Bucs on the scoring sheet but is also a physical presence on the ice. Almost always among the leaders in hits per game for the Bucs Jeff says he really enjoys the physical part of the game. “ I am not a fancy player, for me to be successful I need to forecheck hard and play the body. A big hit can swing the momentum, get the crowd into the game, and lead to scoring opportunities,” said Jeff.
The coaching staff of the Bucs could not be happier with how Jeff has elevated his play. “ He is taking tremendous advantage of his opportunity here in Des Moines, “stated Head Coach and GM Tom Carroll. “ Jeff shows up to play every night and not only works hard in games but also in practice. He has a very bright future ahead of him.”
For Immediate Release March 6, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Bucs at Home for Two this Weekend
The Des Moines Buccaneers are staying home this weekend. Both of the Bucs’ scheduled games will take place at the Metro Ice Sports Arena; March 9th and 10th. This Friday, March 9th, the Dubuque Fighting Saints are in town for Family Night. Kids will love the antics of balloon artist and stiltwalker Shawn Gregory, who will be making free balloon hats and animals for kids at the game. One lucky kid will win a free pizza each month for a year in the “Pizza ‘N Pucks Relay” with Star 102.5. Children that are members of the Pirate Pals Kids Club receive a free ticket to the game (call soon for availability, as games tend to sell out). On Saturday, March 10th, the Bucs take on the Sioux City Musketeers for Iowa Lottery/Hawk 97.3 Night. Both games begin at 7:35 p.m.; tickets are available by calling the Metro Ice Sports Arena at 515-278-9757.
At both games this weekend, fans will be voting for their favorite Buccaneer player on the 2000-01 squad. At the final home game on March 18th, the winning player will receive the Landmark Trophy, awarded annually to the fans’ favorite player. Both games begin at 7:35 p.m.; tickets are available by calling the Metro Ice Sports Arena at 515-278-9757.
Buccaneer Playoff Ticket Packages on Sale to the Public March 14th
The Des Moines Buccaneers have just 6 regular season games remaining, which means that the 2001 USHL Clark Cup playoffs are just around the corner. This year, there will be 3 best-of-five rounds in the playoffs: March 27th-April 7th (Round 1), April 9th-April 18th (Round 2) and April 20th-29th (Round 3).
Beginning on Wednesday, March 14th, the Des Moines Buccaneers will begin offering playoff ticket packages for sale to the general public. Only playoff ticket packages will be available at this time; individual game tickets will go on sale as specific game schedules are announced for each round. Playoff ticket packages are a fantastic way to get in on exciting playoff action, because playoff tickets purchased as a package are discounted from the walk-up, individual-game price. Packages include tickets for all of the Bucs’ 9 possible playoff games; should the Bucs not play all 9 games, fans that save their unused tickets (for un-played games) may turn them in for a refund or credit towards next year’s season tickets.
Playoff ticket package prices are as follows:
ARENA LEVEL ADULT: $72.00 (Save $18)
ARENA LEVEL CHILD 12 & under: $54.00 (Save $9)
ICE LEVEL: $90.00 (Save $18.00
For Immediate Release March 10, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Bus trip to Sioux City / Kearney
Join us for the last weekend of the regular season - Friday, March 23 and Saturday March 24, 2001. Prices are as follows:
2 per room - $127/person, 3 per room - $122/person, 4 per room - $119/person.
Price includes: Bus, hotel, and tickets to 2 games.
Call Paulette Taylor at (515) 224-6408 or (515) 770-9346.
- Leave the Ice Arena at 1:30 PM on Friday, March 23, 2001.
- Arrive approximately 5:00 PM in Sioux City.
- To Valentino's for buffet dinner (own expense).
- The game in Sioux City begins at Sioux City at 7:05 PM; we will be there for warm-ups.
- After the game we will cheer our Bucs on to their bus; then travel to Council Bluffs.
- We will stay at the Days Inn.
- Complimentary continental breakfast.
- Saturday check-out at 11:00 AM.
- The bus continues to Kearney.
- In Kearney we will go to the mall for shopping, relaxing, dinner, etc. (own expense).
- We will get to the arena with plenty of time to watch warm-ups.
- After the game we will return to the ice arena.
For Immediate Release March 13, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Second Annual MDA "Jerseys Off Their Back"
The 2nd Annual MDA "Jerseys Off Their Backs" Auction is coming up at this Friday's game against Green Bay (March 16th).
The Bucs will be wearing special edition, vintage-look navy jerseys with lace-up necks…a real collectors item! You can bid on the jersey of your favorite player in the EAST hall of the Metro Ice Sports Arena at the game...bidding will commence when doors open, and will STOP at the end of the 2nd intermission. High bidders will meet their player at center ice immediately after the game for a photo, and the Buccaneer will take the jersey off his back, autograph it, and hand it over!
This fun, fantastic event raised $14,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association last year…be sure to come to the game, bid generously, and help the Bucs top last year's league record!! For more information, contact Andrea Gengler at the arena, 515-278-9757, or email: bucsushl@aol.com.
For Immediate Release March 14, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Fun-Filled Weekend Planned for Bucs’ Final 2 Regular Season Home Games
The Des Moines Buccaneers will play their last two regular season home games this weekend at the Metro Ice Sports Arena.
Friday night, March 16th, the Buccaneers host the Green Bay Gamblers at 7:35 p.m. The evening will feature the 2nd Annual MDA “Jerseys Off Their Backs” Auction. The Buccaneers will be wearing special edition, vintage look navy jerseys with lace-up necks, and fans can bid on the jersey of their favorite player in the east hall of the arena from the time doors open at 6:45 p.m. until the end of the second intermission. Bids will be tallied, and the winning bidders will meet their favorite Buccaneer at center ice immediately after the game, where the player will remove his jersey, autograph it, and hand it over! Last year, the auction raised over $14,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Also on Friday night, Buccaneer housing families will be honored in a pre-game ceremony, and fans won’t want to miss the Budweiser Human Puck during the first intermission.
Sunday night, March 18th, the arch-rival Omaha Lancers come to town for a 6:05 p.m. game. It’s Fan Appreciation Night, and the first 1,000 fans through the door will receive a free Buccaneer stress puck from McLeod USA. Select members of this year’s team will be honored in a pre-game player awards ceremony (MVP, Fans’ Favorite Player, Leading Scorer, Community Service), and fans will have the opportunity to win autographed Bucs jerseys, and other Buccaneers merchandise from McLeod USA in the intermission Airplane Toss. Families will love the antics of Shawn Gregory, the Balloon Cowboy, who’ll be making balloon hats and swords for children, and everyone will want to stick around after the game for an ON-ICE autograph session with the entire team.
Tickets for both games are available by calling the Metro Ice Sports Arena at 515-278-9757. All seating is reserved. Arena level adults: $10. Arena level children age 12 & under: $7. All ice level seating is $12. Special discounted ticket prices are also available: groups of 20-39 receive $1 off each ticket, and groups of 40 or more receive $2 off each ticket.
The Bucs are on the road this Tuesday, March 13th, to play the Tri-City Storm in a re-scheduled game. This game was originally scheduled for February 9th, but was cancelled due to weather. Game time is 7:05 p.m.
Buccaneer Playoff Ticket Packages on Sale to the Public March 14th
The Des Moines Buccaneers have just 6 regular season games remaining, which means that the 2001 USHL Clark Cup playoffs are just around the corner. This year, there will be 3 best-of-five rounds in the playoffs: March 27th-April 7th (Round 1), April 9th-April 18th (Round 2) and April 20th-29th (Round 3).
Beginning on Wednesday, March 14th, the Des Moines Buccaneers will begin offering playoff ticket packages for sale to the general public. Only playoff ticket packages will be available at this time; individual game tickets will go on sale as specific game schedules are announced for each round. Playoff ticket packages are a fantastic way to get in on exciting playoff action, because playoff tickets purchased as a package are discounted from the walk-up, individual-game price. Packages include tickets for all of the Bucs’ 9 possible playoff games; should the Bucs not play all 9 games, fans that save their unused tickets (for un-played games) may turn them in for a refund or credit towards next year’s season tickets.
Playoff ticket package prices are as follows:
* ARENA LEVEL ADULT: $72.00 (Save $18)
* ARENA LEVEL CHILD 12 & under: $54.00 (Save $9)
* ICE LEVEL: $90.00 (Save $18.00
For more information, contact Andrea Gengler, Buccaneers’ Director of Marketing, at 515-278-9757.
For Immediate Release March 30, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
Sejna Named Western Collegiate Hockey Association Rookie of the Year
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- Colorado College freshman forward Peter Sejna (Liptovky Mikulas, Slovakia) was named the Western Collegiate Hockey Association Rookie of the Year, and junior foward Mark Cullen (Moorhead, Minn.) earned a spot on the all-WCHA first team at the 2001 Outback Steakhouse WCHA Awards Ceremony in St. Paul, Minn.
Sejna, the fifth Tiger to be named Rookie of the Year in the 42-year history of the award, was also named to the all-WCHA third team and the all-rookie team. The last Colorado College player to earn the rookie of the year award was Brian Swanson in 1996.
Mark Cullen's selection to the first team marks the 37th time a Colorado College player has earned the honor. The last two players to earn first-team honors were Brian Swanson and Scott Swanson in 1999.
Colorado College had two other players earn all-WCHA honors. Senior defenseman Paul Manning (Red Deer, Alberta) was named to the second team, while sophomore defenseman Tom Preissing (Rosemount, Minn.) was named to the third team.
Colorado College, North Dakota and St. Clous State each had four players earn all-WCHA honors. Minnesota was next with three.
The Tigers also had nine players earn a spot on the WCHA all-Academic Team. Senior defenseman Mike Colgan (Rochester, Minn.) earned a spot on the team for the third consecutive year. Manning, junior forward Jesse Heerema (Murillo, Ontario) and junior forward Shaun Winkler (Bemidji, Minn.) each were named to the team for the second straight year.
Mark Cullen, Preissing, sophomore center/wing Noah Clarke (LaVerne, Calif.), sophomore defenseman Jason Jozsa (Calgary, Alberta) and senior goaltender Colin Zulianello (Thunder Bay, Ontario) all earned the honor for the first time.
Only Minnesota State, Mankato (10) had more players earn all-academic honors than Colorado College.
For Immediate Release March 31, 2001
Contact: Andrea Gengler, Director of Marketing 515-278-975
WhiteOut 2001 Has Arrived...Bring home the Clark Cup!
It's time for the Clark Cup Playoffs, and the Bucs are ready for Round 1! They take on the Omaha Lancers this Saturday, March 31st and they want to bring the 
Clark Cup back to Des Moines. That means they need YOUR help, so get yourself to the Metro Ice Sports Arena and GET LOUD! During the playoffs, the arena will be packed with screaming fans dressed all in white...it's called a WhiteOut. So...unless you want to stick out like a sore thumb, throw on your whites, call 278-9757 for tickets, and we'll see you at the Madhouse on Hickman!
Remember to wear white, or get some FREE at the door...that's right, the first 3,000 fans at the game get a FREE WhiteOut 2001 t-shirt to wear! Come cheer the Bucs on to victory this Saturday, March 31st!!