2005-06 Buccaneers Press Releases

Buccaneers Split Weekend
January 2, 2006

The Buccaneers ended the last weekend of the year 2005 by spliting with Indiana and Green Bay. Friday night featured a 5-4 victory for the Buccaneers at the Pepsi Coliseum in Indiana. Saturday night was a 3-1 victory for the Green Bay Gamblers. During the game on Friday night versus Indiana, the Bucs got goals from five different players to pull out the victory. Rich Purslow, Shane Sims, John Vadnais, Alex Laseen and Rob Johnson were the Bucs that found the net. They were able to step up and get the job done with the top two point scorers (Trevor Lewis and Kyle Okposo) unavailable due to the Viking Cup in Canada. Saturday night had the Buccaneers traveling to Green Bay for the second meeting between the two teams in four days. The Gamblers were able to muscle away a victory against the Bucs by a score of 3-1. Rich Purslow was able to score his second goal in two days but the Buccaneers were unable to hold off the Gamblers to suffer their sixth loss of the season. The Bucs travel to Chicago on Friday night and then return back to Des Moines to take on the Lincoln Stars at 7:30pm at 95KGGO Arena on Saturday night. It will be "Minnesota Wild Night" where the first 500 fans will receive a Minnesota Wild stocking cap.

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Lewis, Okposo and Foster help USA win Bronze Medal in Viking Cup
January 3, 2006

The USA Junior Select Team was able to capture the bronze medal at the Viking Cup in Camrose, Canada. Bucs' Forward and University of Minnesota Golden Gopher recruit Kyle Okposo led the team with 10 points in three games and Bucs' Forward and University of Michigan recruit Trevor Lewis was not far behind with 8 points in three games. Bucs' goalie Brian Foster was able to come away with wins in all three games he participated in. He compiled a .890 save percentage and 73 saves in the tournament. Okoposo, Lewis and Foster will rejoin the Bucs for their next game Friday, January 6th versus the Chicago Steel in the Windy City. The Bucs will return home Saturday, January 7th at 7:30 to take on the Lincoln Stars at 95 KGGO Arena in Urbandale.

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Bucs Get Another Win at Chicago
January 6, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers got their 20th win of the season on a 6-3 victory over the Chicago Steel. Brian Foster racked up another win in goal by stopping 36 of the 39 shots he faced giving him a 6-2-1 record on the season. Six different Bucs were able to find the net in the game. Kyle Okposo, Trevor Lewis, Ken Rowe, Shane Sims, Ben Van Lare and Ben Ryan were able to score goals to help give the Bucs the win. The Bucs have won the last four out of the last five games they played dating back to the beginning of December.

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Strong 3rd Period Gives Bucs 6-1 Victory
January 7, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers were able to score four goals in the final period to come away with a 6-1 victory at over Lincoln at 95 KGGO Arena. The game started off a little slow in the scoring column in which the first period was held scoreless. The Bucs were able to score two goals in the second period to take a 2-0 lead. Lincoln fired back late in the period with a goal of their own. However, one goal was taken away due to a penalty to keep the Bucs in the lead 2-1 going into the second intermission. The Bucs had a very strong third period by racking up four goals to finish the game with a five goal lead. Troy Davenport played a magnificent game in net for the Buccaneers by stopping 35 of the 36 shots he faced. Kyle Okposo and Trevor Lewis continue their scoring rampage by netting two goals each. The scoring tandem have accounted for 12 points in the last two games. Ken Rowe and Ben Van Lare were able to score a goal each in the game as well. The Buccaneers will be back in action again at 95KGGO Arena on January 13th at 7:30pm against the Chicago Steel. It will be the next installment into the Friday Night Concert Series presented by KGGO. The post-game concert will feature Likely Suspects immediately following the game. It will be Miller Lite "Buc" and a half beer night along with "College Night." Get a half-priced ticket with a college ID.

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Bucs Top Waterloo 4-1
January 8, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers won their third straight game after a 4-1 win over the Waterloo Blackhawks. Brian Foster came away with another win in goal for the Bucs by stopping 37 of the 38 he faced. It is his seventh win of the season. Colin Vock, Kyle Okposo, Ben Van Lare and Aaron Palushaj were each able to score a goal in the win. Two of the Bucs' goals were shorthanded goals while one was a power play goal. They were also able to kill off all nine of the Blackhawks power plays. The Bucs will take on the Chicago Steel at 95KGGO Arena on Friday, January 13th at 7:30PM. There will be a post-game concerts presented by KGGO. Likely Suspects will perform immediately after game. Miller Lite will be having their "Buc" and a half beer night. It is also "College Night." Bring your college ID and get a ticket for half price.

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Five Des Moines Buccaneers Make USHL All Star Team
January 10, 2006

The United States Hockey League (USHL) today announced that five Des Moines Buccaneers are among the 40 players chosen to play on two 2006 USHL Prospects/All-Star teams. The two squads, representing both the Eastern (“Blue”) and Western (“White”) conferences, will go head-to-head at the Tyson Events Center’s Gateway Arena in Sioux City, Feb. 7. Among the forwards joining the All-Star team are the Des Moines Buccaneers’ Trevor Lewis (Murray, Utah) and Kyle Okposo (St. Paul, Minn.). Lewis is currently first among all USHL scorers with 42 goals and a plus/minus rating of +25. Meanwhile, Okposo is ranked third overall in points with 41 and the highest plus-minus rating in the league with a +30. Buccaneer defensemen Chase Ryan (Algonquin, Ill.) and Jeff Petry (Farmington Hills, Mich.) also took top spots with the Eastern Conference team. Ryan currently has 10 assists and an overall 11 points with a +21 rating while Petry has one goal and a +10 rating. Buccaneer goalie Troy Davenport (Inver Grove Heights, Minn.), who has recorded a 2.33 GAA and .930 save percentage for Des Moines, will backstop the Blue team. "These five individuals are all very deserving of the honor,” said Regg Simon, coach and general manager of the Des Moines Buccaneers. “They've all had great seasons to this point and the fact that five of them are in the All-Star game is also a testament to their teammates, as well.” The Prospects / All-Star Game roster is selected by the USHL in conjunction with the NHL's Central Scouting service. An average of 12 to 15 players of the 40 man roster are selected specifically by the NHL Central Scouting Service. The full roster of the 2006 USHL Prospects / All-Star Game is posted online at the league's Web site: www.ushl.com.

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Kyle Okposo Named USHL Offensive Player of the Week
January 11, 2006

The United States Hockey League announced today that Buccaneers Forward Kyle Okposo has been named the leagues offensive player of the week for the second time this season.  Okposo, the first overall selection in the 2005 USHL entry draft, finished the week with four goals and four assists.  While leading the Bucs to three straight victories, Okposo finished the week with a plus/minus rating of six pushing his season total to a league leading plus 30.   Last week, Okposo returned to the Buccaneers after leading team USA to a bronze medal in the Viking Cup.  The Viking Cup is a tournament in Camrose, Alberta, Canada, that features the best junior hockey players in the world.  This year it featured such teams as Finland, Slovakia and Switzerland.  Okposo led the team with 10 points in the tournament.

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Des Moines Buccaneers Trade Defenseman Tom Gerken
January 12, 2006

Regg Simon, head coach and general manager of the Des Moines Buccaneers, today announced that the team has traded defenseman Tom Gerken to the Lincoln Stars. Gerken was traded for future compensation. Defenseman Andrew Krelove from the Lindsay Muskies in the Ontario Provincial Junior Hockey League (OPJHL) will join the team beginning this weekend.  He's from Thunder Bay, Ontario. Losing John (Vadnais), we needed to find a defenseman with experience who could come in and help us right away, said Simon. Andrew will help to fill the hole and we'll look for him to be a big part of our team for the remainder of the season.

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Des Moines Buccaneers Team Captain Out for the Season
January 13, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers head coach and general manager Regg Simon today announced that Buccaneer defenseman John Vadnais will sit out the rest of the season due to an injured shoulder. It's certainly tough to lose our captain and one of the best defensemen in the league, said Simon. What will be important is how our team rallies around this and responds to a little adversity. Vadnais, a team captain and native of Stillwater, Minn., scored seven goals and added 16 assists while posting a +12 in the East Division this season. He has already committed to playing for Bemidji State University next year. The Buccaneers acquired Vadnais in December 2004 where he made an immediate impact on the club and was named assistant captain. During the 2004-2005 season, he amassed 15 points in 40 games with the Bucs. Going into this season Regg Simon, coach and general manager of the Des Moines Buccaneers, said he looked to Vadnais to lead his veteran squad. John just plays good, simple hockey, said Simon. He makes sound decisions with the puck and his defensive play has improved a great deal. I’m certain he’ll bounce back from this injury.

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Bucs Top NHL's Central Scouting List
January 16, 2006

The National Hockey League's Central Scouting Service has released its midterm rankings.  Four Des Moines Buccaneers found their way onto the list along with 15 others from the USHL.  The Bucs lead the USHL with four names on the big list.  Bucs forward Kyle Okposo is the highest rated player from the league.  He is ranked 13th while two more Buccaneers are the next highest USHL players.  Forward Michael Forney comes in 43rd on the list.  Close behind him is forward Trevor Lewis at 46th.  Defenseman Jeff Petry is the next and final Buccaneer on the list.  He comes in at 76th.  At this point in the season, the Bucs have the most players on the Central Scouting board from the USHL teams.  The fact that all four of the players come in the first three rounds is the most impressive part.  Of the 19 USHL players on the list, the four Buccaneer players all rank in the top six. It's exciting that our team has four players on the Central Scouting Mid-Term rankings, Buccaneers head coach and general manager Regg Simon said. But what also is nice is that the rankings show that the USHL continues to recruit and develop NHL caliber talent.  That speaks volumes for the league. Kyle Okposo, a University of Minnesota recruit, has been performing well for the Bucs this season.  He is currently second on the team in points and third in the league with 41 points (20G & 21A).  Trevor Lewis, who is headed to the University of Michigan next season, has 42 points (22G & 20A) this season which leads the team and is second in the league.  Michael Forney, who has committed to the University of North Dakota, has only played three games with the Bucs so far this season and has not amassed any points.  He will be joining the Bucs later in the season once his Thief River Falls High School team finishes their season.  Jeff Petry has played the majority of the season with the Bucs while generating one goal and +9 plus/minus rating so far this season.

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RoughRiders Hand Bucs 3-0 Loss
January 20, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers were defeated by the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders 3-0 tonight at 95KGGO Arena. The Buccaneers, who are the highest scoring team in the USHL have been shutout in their last nine periods of play. As of late the puck hasn’t been making its way in the net for the Bucs, but it hasn't been because of the limited number of shots. Tonight was a prime example as the Bucs out shot Cedar Rapids 43-19. The Bucs are now tied for first place with the RoughRiders in the Eastern Division. The Bucs return to action tomorrow as they travel to Tri-City for a 7pm game. The Bucs stay on the road and travel to Sioux Falls on Sunday for a 6pm game. The Bucs return home Friday, January 27 to take on the Indiana Ice at 7:30 at 95KGGO Arena. It's Buccaneers Trading Card Night presented by Mercy Medical Center. The 1st 500 fans receive a set of Buccaneers Trading Cards.

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Bucs Get Back On Winning Track with 6-3 Victory
January 27, 2006

The Eastern Division leading Des Moines Buccaneers started off slow but were able to rally back from a 3-0 deficit to beat the Indiana Ice 6-3 at 95KGGO Arena tonight. The second period showcased six goals between the two teams. Indiana took a 1-0 lead into the first intermission and came out firing in the second with two goals in the first 1:13 into the period. The Bucs found themselves down 3-0, but fought back to score four unanswered goals of their own to take the lead into the second intermission 4-3. The scoring frenzy got the loyal fans rocking and excited for more. Indiana's Garrett Roe was able to score the first two goals for the Ice while Brian Gifford was able to get their third. The Des Moines Buccaneers countered with six unanswered goals. Forward Colin Vock scored two of the Buccaneers' goals, one in the second period and the other in the third. Also scoring for the Bucs was Rich Purslow, Andrew Olson, Aaron Palushaj and Ken Rowe. This win keeps the Buccaneers tied atop the Eastern Division with Cedar Rapids. The next action for the Bucs will be on February 1st against rival Omaha at 7:30pm at 95KGGO Arena. It will be "Salute to Armed Forces Night." 23 lucky fans will be leaving with a game worn camouflage jersey that the Bucs will be wearing during the game. It is also "Bud Night." $2 draws of Bud and Bud Light.

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Bucs Drop Streaking Lancers 5-2
February 1, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers were able to snap the Omaha Lancers five-game winning streak by defeating them 5-2 at 95KGGO Arena. With the win, the Bucs are now alone in first place in the Eastern Division and are two points ahead of the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. The Bucs got on the scoreboard early with a goal by Colin Vock just 2:16 into the first period. The second period showcased three power play goals by the Bucs. Two of the goals came from forward Trevor Lewis and the third came from defenseman Kyle Bushee. Omaha's Nicolas Fanto was able to slip a shot past Bucs goalie Troy Davenport with just less than four minutes left in the second period. With the score at 4-1, Omaha pulled their goalie for the extra attacker and were able to get a goal by Ryan Raven to make the score 4-2 with just over five minutes left in the game. However, Bucs forward Ken Rowe was able to take advantage of the empty net two minutes later to put the game out of reach at 5-2. The Bucs will be at home again on Saturday, February 4th at 7:30pm versus the Lincoln Stars. It will be "Family Fun Night." 4 tickets, 4 hotdogs, 4 sodas and 4 popcorns for $44. There will also be a free public skate following the game.

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Bucs Fall to Lincoln 3-1
February 4, 2006

Tonight at 95KGGO Arena, the Des Moines Buccaneers fell to the Lincoln Stars 3-1. Despite the loss, the Bucs remain in first place in the Eastern Division with a three point lead over the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. After a scoreless first period the second period featured three goals within three minutes. Lincoln's Eli Vlaisavljevich struck first on a power play goal. Thirty seconds later, Bucs forward Ben Van Lare scored a goal to tie the game at one. Two minutes later Lincoln's Justin Milo put the Stars up 2-1. Lincoln secured the win in the third period on a goal by Garrett Raboin to put the Stars up 3-1. The next home action for the Buccaneers will be Friday, February 10th at 7:30pm versus the Sioux Falls Stampede at 95KGGO Arena. There will be a post game concert following the game presented by KGGO. Legal Limit will be performing live on the ice after the game. It is also Miller Lite $1.50 beer night. Also, it will be College Night. Get a half priced ticket with a college ID.

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Bucs Make Trade With Indiana
February 8, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers head coach and general manager Regg Simon announced today that the Buccaneers have traded forward Alex Laseen to the Indiana Ice in exchange for forward Aaron Bendickson. They have also acquired the rights to defenseman Bobby Reiners from the Green Bay Gamblers. Bendickson (Thief River Falls, MN ) has appeared in 34 USHL games this season, scoring 6 goals and 4 assists. At 6' and 180 pounds, the Buccaneers are expecting him to help bring some added energy to the line-up. Aaron brings us what I call jam, said coach Simon. He plays hard and competes every shift. We'll need him to do those types of things to help our team out. Reiners (Grosse Isle, MI ) has appeared in 26 USHL games this season and has contributed 1 assist. A good sized, physical defenseman, the Buccaneers look for him to fill the voids left by the season ending injuries to captain John Vadnais and Alan Dorich. Bobby will help us out with his style of play, said Simon. He's big, mobile and most importantly, he's a warrior. We needed a player like him to help us be tougher defensively and to help break the puck out of our zone better.

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Bucs Finish Weekend Strong
February 13, 2006

The Buccaneers traveled to Sioux City on Saturday night and found themselves on the short end of the stick as the Musketeers defeated the Bucs 5-3. Rob Johnson, Kyle Okposo and Ben Ryan scored the Buccaneer goals. Ryan's goal tied the game at three with under eight minutes left in the game. Sioux City's Dustin Gazely was able to score a power play goal to go ahead 4-3 with 3:23 left. The Musketeers then added an empty net goal to seal the victory. Sunday, the Bucs traveled to Sioux Falls to take on the Stampede for the second time in three days. After trailing 1-0 after the first period, the Bucs stormed back with two goals in the second period by Aaron Bendickson and Trevor Lewis. For Bendickson, it was his seventh goal of the season and his first in a Buccaneers jersey. Kyle Okposo added another goal in the third period to make the score 3-1. The win put the Bucs three points ahead of the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders in the Eastern Division. The Bucs will be at home again on Friday, February 17th against the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders at 7:30pm.

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Bucs Get Big Win Over Waterloo 5-3
February 18, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers were able to outlast the Waterloo Blackhawks tonight by a score of 5-3.  The keeps the Bucs in first place in the Eastern Division and put them back in the win column.  It was a back-and-forth game until the Bucs were able to pull away late in the third period.  Kyle Bushee netted the first two goals for the Bucs.  Colin Vock scored midway through the third period to put the Bucs up 3-2, but the Blackhawks answered quickly by a goal from Matt Arhontas to tie the game up at three.  Rob Johnson and Ben Van Lare scored goals late in the third period to put the game away.  The win keeps the Buccaneers five points in front of Cedar Rapids in the Eastern Division.

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Two More Bucs Commit to Division 1 Schools
February 20, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers head coach and general manager Regg Simon announced today that defenseman Shane Sims and forward Rich Purslow have both verbally committed to college hockey programs. Sims (East Amherst , N.Y. ) made his commitment to the Ohio State University Buckeyes over the weekend. In his first season with the Buccaneers, he is their leading scoring defenseman with 8 goals and 12 assists in 46 games. He also has a plus/minus rating of plus 8. "I took an unofficial visit to Ohio State last spring," Sims said. "After getting to know the coaching staff and seeing the campus and facilities, that was the place I really wanted to go. I'm happy it's worked out this way." Purslow (Greenlawn , N.Y. ) also committed over the weekend to the University of Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks . In 46 games for the Buccaneers, he has 11 goals and 24 assist and is currently fourth on the team in the scoring. "Everything at UNO is top notch," Purslow said after making an unofficial visit recently. "The Qwest Center is unbelievable, along with the rest of the athletic facilities and campus. After seeing everything, I knew they were committed to winning and I wanted to be a part of that." Ohio State and Nebraska-Omaha are both member schools of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA). Nebraska-Omaha currently sits in fourth place in the conference, while Ohio State sits in seventh, trailing the Mavericks by just four points. The standings in the conference are tight, with just 6 points separating third through eighth place. "Rich and Shane have both worked hard for this," said coach Simon. "They've developed and improved over the course of the season, and now two top college hockey programs have taken notice. Each school will be getting not only a very good player, but a fine young man as well." Both Purslow and Sims will return to play for the Buccaneers next season before reporting to play for the Buckeyes and Mavericks in the fall of 2007.

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Chase Ryan Commits to Minnesota-Duluth
February 21, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers head coach and general manager Regg Simon announced today the verbal commitment of defenseman Chase Ryan to the University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs. Ryan (Algonquin, Illinois ) is in his third season in the USHL and first with the Buccaneers. He has appeared in 46 games and with a scoring line of 1 goal and 15 assists. He is tied for second in the league for defensemen in the plus/minus category with a plus 18. "I had some great schools recruiting me, but when it came down to it, Duluth felt like the right place," said Ryan. "I really wanted to play in the WCHA and UMD was a great fit." The Bulldogs are members of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA). A team from the WCHA has won the NCAA Division I college hockey national championship for four consecutive years. Two years ago, Duluth lost in the national semi-finals to eventual champion Denver University . The WCHA currently has six of its ten teams ranked in the top fourteen in the nation, and is often considered the toughest conference in Division I college hockey. "Chase has really developed into a steady, dependable defenseman," said coach Simon. "With some of the injuries we've suffered in the past few months, his ice time and roles for our team have increased and he's handled it well. He’s going to get great coaching and play for an excellent program in Duluth ."

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Davenport Commits to Cornell University
February 26, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers of the United States Hockey League (USHL) and head coach/general manager Regg Simon announced today that goalie Troy Davenport has verbally committed to Cornell University . Davenport ( Inver Grove Heights , MN ), in his second season with the Buccaneers, currently has a record of 18 wins, 10 losses and 3 overtime losses. He is statistically one of the top goalies in the USHL, with a 2.63 goals against average and a .920 save percentage. "I wanted to go to Cornell because they have history of producing top-end college and professional goalies," said Davenport . "The academic side of it was also very important to me. I wanted to make sure I'd get the best education possible, and I feel I'll get that at Cornell." "Troy has persevered and worked hard for this," said coach Simon. "He has proven he is capable of playing well and consistent, and now he's going to get an Ivy League education while playing for an outstanding hockey program." The Cornell University Big Red are members of the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC). They currently sit in second place in the conference standings, and are just one point out of first. They are also ranked nationally (8th), with an 18-7-4 record.

With Davenports commitment, the Buccaneers now have a total of fifteen players committed to Division I college hockey programs: Brian Foster (University of New Hampshire), Chase Ryan (University of Minnesota-Duluth), Shane Sims (Ohio State University), Michael Forney (University of North Dakota), Ken Rowe (Army), Ben Ryan (Notre Dame University), Aaron Bendickson (University of Wisconsin), Colin Vock (University of Vermont), Trevor Lewis (University of Michigan), Rich Purslow (University of Nebraska-Omaha), Michael Dorr (University of Minnesota-Duluth), Kyle Okposo (University of Minnesota), Aaron Palushaj (University of Michigan) and John Vadnais (Bemidji State University).

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Bucs Split Weekend, Remain in 1st Place
February 27, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers split their two road games this weekend. Friday, the Bucs went to Waterloo to take on the Blackhawks and came away with a 5-3 win. Trevor Lewis netted two goals in the win while Shane Sims and Aaron Bendickson also had goals for the Bucs. Colin Vock added an empty net goal with 15 seconds left to seal the victory. Saturday night, the Bucs lost a tough one in overtime at Indiana 5-4. The game was played in front of a crowd of almost 15,000. The Bucs were able to overcome a two-goal deficit to force overtime but were unable to come away with the victory. Colin Vock had two goals, in which, one was shorthanded. It was the Bucs 19th shorthanded goal and that ties the USHL record for number of shorthanded goals in a season. Ken Rowe and Ben Ryan also added goals for the Bucs.

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Mama Lacona's and the Buccaneers Team up To Help Kids
February 28, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers and Mama Lacona's have announced a partnership to help the Boy's and Girls Club's of Central Iowa. On Tuesday March 7th, members of the Des Moines Buccaneers will be waiting tables at Mama Lacona's. All tips collected that night will be donated to the Boys & Girls Club of Central Iowa. There will be great prizes for the biggest tippers. The Event will start at 7:00pm and end at 9:00pm. Mama Lacona's is located at 2743 86th Street in Urbandale.

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Bucs Win Thriller in OT versus Chicago
March 4, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers win a thrilling 4-3 game in overtime at 95KGGO Arena over the Chicago Steel. Kyle Okposo netted the game-winning goal with 42 seconds remaining in the overtime period. The Buccaneer fans erupted as the Bucs stay in first place in the Eastern Division. The game was tight throughout, with a scoreless first period, Aaron Bendickson was able to put the Bucs on the board first early in the second period. Kyle Okposo added a goal in the second as well. Each goal was matched by the Steel to have the score notched at two at the end of the second period. Chicago took the lead with eight minutes left in regulation only to have Trevor Lewis tie the game up with less than four minutes left.

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Bucs Defenseman Commits to Northern Michigan
March 6, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers of the United States Hockey League (USHL) and head coach & general manager Regg Simon announced today that defenseman Alan Dorich has verbally committed to the Northern Michigan University Wildcats of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA). Dorich (Orland Park , IL ) came to the USHL after being groomed in the Chicago Young Americans AAA program. He has been part of the Buccaneers for three seasons, but had the past two cut short due to injury. This season, he appeared in 24 games, scoring 1 goal and 4 assist, while having an outstanding plus/minus rating of plus 16. "Alan was the consummate defensive-defenseman for our team, and in my opinion, one of the best at doing that in the entire USHL," coach Simon said. "He was matched against other team's top lines, he was our best penalty killer, he led our team in blocked shots...he did everything for us. I'm happy and proud that he'll get to move on to a great college hockey program." Northern Michigan finished fourth in the CCHA this season, which secured them a first-round play-off bye this weekend. They finished their season with a 20-14-2 record and are currently ranked twentieth in the national polls. They will resume CCHA play-off action next weekend.

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Bucs Get 4-2 Win Over Green Bay
March 10, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers came away with another win tonight at 95KGGO Arena over the Green Bay Gamblers by a score of 4-2. The Bucs scored the first four goals of the game. Bucs forward Trevor Lewis scored two goals while Colin Vock and Andrew Olson each added a goal to put the Bucs up 4-0. In the second period Green Bay struck back with two goals by Sean Backman and Nick Tabisz. However, the Bucs were able to hold off the Gambler rally and get the win.

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Buccaneers Come Up Big In OT
March 11, 2006

Tonight at 95KGGO Arena the Des Moines Buccaneers beat the Tri-City Storm 4-3. Kyle Okposo netted the game winning overtime goal :45 seconds into the period. Shane Sims got the scoring started for the Buccaneers in the first period. The Storm struck back in the first tying the game at one going into the intermission. Halfway through the second period the Storm struck again to take a 2-1 lead. Aaron Bendickson struck for the Buccaneers at the 12:02 mark to tie the game at 2. In the third period, Colin Vock was able to regain the lead for the Bucs with a goal 1:52 into the period. Tri-City was able to retie the game at 3 with 10 minutes remaining in the period. With the win the Bucs remain in first place in the East by one point over Cedar Rapids.

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Bucs Help Raise Over $20,000 For Charity in One Week
March 14, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers have been very busy in the last week.  They compiled two victories that kept them in first place in the Eastern Division in the USHL standings.  On top of that, the Bucs were able to help raise $20,300 for local charities.  On Tuesday, March 7th Buccaneer players waited tables at Mama Lacona's.  All tips collected were donated to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Iowa. The event raised $1,781 for the charity and was a very fun and successful evening. On March 11th following their overtime win against Tri-City, the Bucs held a live jersey auction to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Immediately following the game, the Bucs and MDA auctioned the jerseys off the player’s backs. The auction raised $17,500 all of which was donated to the MDA. That same night the Buccaneers also allowed a youth AAU baseball team to sell Chuck-A-Pucks and game programs. The Bucs donated $425 for their efforts. Also during the game, the Urbandale Fire Department passed around a boot where fans could drop in their donations. They were able to raise $575. For more information and pictures, contact the Buccaneers Public Relation Coordinator Mark Phillips.

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Bucs Score 5-2 Victory Over Indiana
March 18, 2006

Tonight at 95KGGO Arena the Des Moines Buccaneers defeated the Indiana Ice 5-2.  Tonight’s victory dead-locked the Buccaneers and the Cedar Rapids Rough Riders in first place in the Eastern Division with three games left in the regular season.  After a scoreless first period Indiana struck first on a power play goal by Ryan Peckskamp.  Trevor Lewis answered with two goals to give the Buccaneers a lead that they would never relinquish.  8:10 into the third period Colin Vock scored a short handed goal for the Buccaneers.  That goal set a USHL record for short handed goals in a season with 20.  Vock added another goal as did Andrew Olson.  Saturday March 25th at 7:30 the Buccaneers host the Waterloo Black Hawks in the regular season finale.  It is fan appreciation night and the Buccaneers players will skate with the fans following the game.

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Collins named Player of Year in Hockey East
March 21, 2006

Boston College senior forward Chris Collins (Des Moines, 2001-02) emerged from the relative obscurity of his first three seasons to win the Hockey East scoring race by six points and now tacks on RBK/CCM Player of the Year honors. Collins totaled 18 goals and 21 assists over 27 league games, at one point having a hand in 21 of his team's 34 goals during a nine-game point streak. Other individual award winners in Hockey East that played in the USHL include UMass-Lowell senior forward Danny O'Brien (Cedar Rapids, 2000-02), who won the Len Ceglarski Sportsmanship Award, and Boston University senior forward Brad Zancanaro (Sioux City, 2000-02), who was named the league's best defensive forward. But the honors didn't end there for USHL graduates. Collins was also named to the All-Hockey East First Team, while Boston University sophomore forward Peter MacArthur (Waterloo, 2003-04) was named to the Second Team. The Hockey East All-Rookie Team includes forward Rob Ricci (Cedar Rapids, 2004-05) and defenseman Brett Motherwell (Omaha, 2003-05).

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Former Buccaneer Chris Collins Wins Walter Brown Award
March 24, 2006

Boston College forward and ex-Buuccaneer Chris Collins is the winner of the 54th Walter Brown Award, presented annually to the best American-born college hockey player in New England. The announcement was made by Gridiron Club of Greater Boston president George Crotty. Collins, a senior from Fairport, N.Y., ranks third in the nation in scoring, with 58 points in 38 games. He is also third in goals with 30, including five shorthanded tallies, eight power play goals, and four game winners. In his three previous seasons at Boston College, Collins totaled 59 points. His surge in scoring production was a major reason that the Eagles, a youthful team that lost 11 players to graduation and professional signings, led Hockey East for most of the season and earned a berth in the NCAA Tournament for the eighth time in nine years. Boston College's Chris Collins is third in the nation in scoring, with 58 points in 38 games.

Earlier this month Collins was named to Hockey East's first all-star team and was selected the league's Player of the Year. He is also one of ten finalists for the 2006 Hobey Baker Award. Collins is the 18th Boston College player to win the Walter Brown Award and the first since Brian Gionta in 2001. Boston College coach Jerry York, who won the Walter Brown Award in 1967, said, "This is a well deserved honor for Chris. He has always been a tenacious defender, but he really learned a lot just watching our team's shooters like Ryan Shannon and Patrick Eaves over the last few years. This season he gained a great deal of poise and showed the offensive flair that made him an impact player at both ends of the ice." Collins edged out Boston University junior goalie John Curry and Maine senior forward Greg Moore in the final balloting.

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Bucs Win Season Finale over Waterloo 5-3
March 25, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers were able to head into the Clark Cup playoffs with a little momentum as they defeat the Waterloo Blackhawks 5-3 tonight at 95KGGO Arena. In front of a packed house of over 3,600 fans, the Bucs came through with a win. The win put the Buccaneers in a tie for first place in the Eastern Division with Cedar Rapids to earn a share of the division title. The Bucs got a great performance out of forward Colin Vock, who had two goals and two assists. Donnie Hallmark also chipped in with a goal and an assist. Aaron Bendickson and Rich Purslow added a goal each as well.

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Lewis and Okposo Receive Honors From USHL
March 27, 2006

The United States Hockey League announced today its individual year-end-awards, as well as its All-USHL First and Second Teams and All-Rookie Team for the 2005-06 season, as selected by USHL coaches and presidents. Second-year Des Moines forward Trevor Lewis, 19, was named Player of the Year and Forward of the Year after finishing second in league scoring with 35 goals for 75 points in 56 games. He was also a plus-25. The University of Michigan recruit from Murray, Utah, was also named to the All-USHL First Team. "Trevor being recognized by our league and its coaches for this award is the ultimate compliment any player could receive," said Buccaneers coach-GM Regg Simon. "His commitment, pride and determination towards this season has been second to none." Lewis was also the recipient of the Curt Hammer Award, given to the player who distinguishes himself as the most gentlemanly player, both on and off the ice, while demonstrating outstanding performance skills, pride and determination. "We, as an organization, and myself, personally as a coach, couldn't be more happy or proud of the way he’s played this season and conducted himself away from the rink," Simon added. Lewis' teammate, forward Kyle Okposo, 17, copped Rookie of the Year honors after striking for 27 goals for 58 points in 50 games with the Buccaneers. The University of Minnesota recruit was also named to the All-USHL First Team.

Fourth-year Omaha defenseman Nick Schaus, 19, was named Defenseman of the Year. The UMass-Lowell-bound Orchard Park, N.Y., native tallied nine goals for 53 points in 60 games. He was also a plus-23. Goaltender of the Year honors went to second-year Cedar Rapids netminder Alex Stalock, 18. The San Jose Sharks draft pick posted a league-high 28 wins and league-best .931 save percentage. The Minnesota-Duluth-bound Stalock also fashioned a 2.54 goals-against average.

Kevin Hartzell was named Coach of the Year. In his first season behind Sioux Falls' bench, he guided the Stampede to its first-ever Anderson Cup championship and first playoff appearance in four years as the team set a franchise record for wins in a season with 43. Simon was named General Manager of the Year. Through trades and the USHL draft, he was the architect behind the Buccaneers' 16-win turnaround this season. In addition, 16 of his players have committed to Division I programs, tied for the most in the USHL with Omaha. The Organization of the Year award went to Sioux Falls. Along with winning its first-ever Anderson Cup as the USHL’s regular-season champions, the Stampede averaged close to 3,500 in attendance while raising over $55,000 for local charities.

Breakdown of USHL Awards

Individual Awards
Player of the Year: Trevor Lewis, Des Moines
Rookie of the Year: Kyle Okposo, Des Moines
Forward of the Year: Trevor Lewis, Des Moines
Top Defenseman: Nick Schaus, Omaha
Top Goalie: Alex Stalock, Cedar Rapids
Coach of the Year: Kevin Hartzell, Sioux Falls
GM of the Year: Regg Simon, Des Moines
Curt Hammer Award: Trevor Lewis, Des Moines
Organization of the Year: Sioux Falls Stampede

First Team All-USHL
Goaltender: Alex Stalock, Cedar Rapids
Defenseman: Nick Schaus, Omaha
Defenseman: Eli Vlaisavljevich, Lincoln
Forward: Trevor Lewis, Des Moines
Forward: Andreas Nodl, Sioux Falls
Forward: Kyle Okposo, Des Moines

Second Team All-USHL
Goaltender: John Murray, Sioux Falls
Defenseman: Nate Prosser, Sioux Falls
Defenseman: Eddie Del Grosso, Indiana
Forward: Chad Costello, Cedar Rapids
Forward: Ted Purcell, Cedar Rapids
Forward: Mike Davies, Lincoln

All-Rookie Team
Goaltender: Alex Kangas, Sioux Falls
Defenseman: Shane Sims, Des Moines
Defenseman: Chad Langlais, Lincoln
Forward: Kyle Okposo, Des Moines
Forward: Sam Gagner, Sioux City
Forward: Kevin Deeth, Green Bay

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Bucs Dominate Gamblers 4-1 in Game 1
March 29, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers were able to start the playoffs off strong with a 4-1 win over the Green Bay Gamblers in Game 1 of the Clark Cup Playoffs. There was no score throughout most of the first period until Ben Ryan scored a goal with only :27 left in the period. The Buccaneers added two more goals in the second period from Aaron Palushaj and a powerplay goal from Jeff Petry. Green Bay made some noise late in the third period when Kurt Davis got an unassisted goal to cut the lead to 3-1. However, Ken Rowe put on the finishing touches as he scored with under four minutes left to give the Bucs a comfortable three goal lead. Buccaneers goalie Troy Davenport played a very impressive game in net by stopping 24 of the 25 shots he faced with the lone goal coming late in the third period.

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Former Buc Chris Collins finalist for Hobey Baker Award
March 30, 2006

Compiled by USCHO Staff - Denver junior defenseman Matt Carle, Boston College senior forward Chris Collins and Wisconsin junior goaltender Brian Elliott make up the 2006 Hobey "Hat Trick," announced Wednesday by the Hobey Baker Foundation.

Carle, Collins and Elliott were selected from among the original list of 10 finalists announced two weeks ago; one will win the 2006 Hobey Baker Memorial Award, which will be presented Friday, April 7, at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee, Wis., during the Frozen Four festivities.

Carle, a native of Anchorage, Alaska, became the first player in WCHA history to be voted the league's Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. A first-team All-WCHA selection for the second year in a row, Carle leads the nation in assists (42) and leads all NCAA defensemen in points (53). In conference games he led the WCHA in assists and finished second in points. Carle, who recently signed a professional contract with the NHL's San Jose Sharks, was a member of the 2004 and 2005 NCAA championship teams at Denver and was a co-captain of the Pioneers this year.

A real estate and construction management major, he carries a 3.30 grade-point average and was a WCHA All-Academic Team honoree. He participates annually in the "Skate with the Pioneers" event for terminally ill children, and has volunteered at the Alaska Food Drive and a holiday children's charity drive.

Collins, a native of Fairport, N.Y., was the Hockey East Player of the Year and a first-team All-Hockey East selection. An alternate captain, he has led Boston College to the NCAA Frozen Four, and heads to Milwaukee with 61 points in 40 games (31 goals, 30 assists). He had 39 points in conference play, six more than any other Hockey East player, and won the Walter Brown Award as the top American-born player in New England. Collins ranks second nationally in points, points per game (1.52), goals and shorthanded goals (five). An NHL free agent, Collins is enrolled in BC's Carroll School of Management.

Elliott, a native of Newmarket, Ontario, leads the nation in nearly every goaltending category, including goals-against average (1.55), save percentage (.938), shutouts (eight), wins (25) and winning percentage (.803). Elliott has posted three consecutive shutouts to lead the Badgers to the NCAA Frozen Four, and was named Most Outstanding Player at the Midwest Regional last weekend. The second-team All-WCHA goaltender, Elliott led the conference in goals-against average (1.80) and save percentage (.930). A business major with a 3.13 grade-point average, Elliott is in his first year of studies at the prestigious UW School of Business. He makes frequent visits to the UW Children's Hospital.

Ten finalists for the Hobey Baker Memorial Award are determined by vote of the nation's 59 Division I head coaches, along with the preliminary results of the online Vote for Hobey. Joining Carle, Collins and Elliott in that group of finalists were Miami senior defenseman Andy Greene, Maine senior forward Greg Moore, Nebraska-Omaha junior forward Scott Parse, Minnesota junior forward Ryan Potulny, Colorado College senior forward Marty Sertich, Colorado College senior forward Brett Sterling and St. Lawrence senior forward T.J. Trevelyan. The recipient is selected by the vote of a 25-member selection committee, along with the final voting results from Vote for Hobey. The presentation will be made at 6 p.m. CT (7 p.m. ET) at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee on Friday, April 7, and will be televised live on ESPNU. The ceremony precedes the Hockey Humanitarian Award presentation and the inaugural NCAA Frozen Four Skills Challenge.

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Bucs Shutout Green Bay in Intense 6-0 Win
March 31, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers came through with another big win at 95KGGO Arena in Game 2 of the Clark Cup Playoffs. The Bucs were able to shutout the Green Bay Gamblers 6-0 in what turned out to be a very physically played game. Colin Vock had a great game for the Bucs by scoring three goals giving him a hat trick for the night. Goalie Troy Davenport had a fine game stopping all 17 shots that came his way. After a scoreless first period, the Bucs broke the game wide open by scoring four goals in the second period. The third period featured two more goals and treated the loyal fans to donuts. Trevor Lewis, Ben Ryan and Aaron Bendickson scored a goal each on top of Vock's hat trick goal.

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Bucs Sweep Green Bay
April 1, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers were able to sweep Green Bay in the opening round of the Clark Cup Playoffs. The Bucs took the first two games at home before traveling to Green Bay for Game 3 and were able to come out with a 3-2 victory to advance to the next round. Green Bay took an early 1-0 lead on an Eric Gryba goal midway through the first period. The Bucs scored three straight goals by Shane Sims, Kyle Okposo and Ken Rowe to take a 3-1 lead in the third period. Green Bay's Sergio Somma kept the Gamblers in the game with a powerplay goal with less than eight minutes left to go in the game. However, the Bucs were able to hold on for the victory. The Bucs will move onto the semi-final round of the Clark Cup Playoffs. They will take on the winner of the Cedar Rapids / Indiana series. Indiana currently leads the series 2-1. Game 4 of that series will be played on Thursday, April 6th at 7:00pm in Indiana. The semi-final round will be announced after the conclusion of the CR / Indiana series.

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Former Bucs Perform Well in Frozen Four
April 7, 2006

Chris Collins made North Dakota pay for its mistakes, and Boston College's unselfish play helped the Eagles advance to the NCAA Frozen Four title game for the first time since 2001. Streaking in alone in the second period, Collins got a pass from teammate Benn Ferriero and buried the puck in the back of the net to lead Boston College to a 6-5 victory over North Dakota on Thursday in the semifinals. "They weren't ready for that," Collins said. "To be skating out across the blue line and Benn Ferriero putting it right on my stick was pretty nice." Collins scored three goals and the Eagles didn't let North Dakota bully them out of the NCAA tournament like they did last season. Collins, a senior, and a Hobey Baker award finalist, swung the momentum with the goal scored with 22 seconds left in the second period while North Dakota was changing lines. Collins and Boston College will take on Wisconsin in the Frozen Four Final Saturday at 7 pm on ESPN. Wisconsin also has two former Buc's on their team, defensemen Joe Piskula and Davis Drewiske.

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Bucs Win Game 1 in Overtime
April 11, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers opened up the Eastern Division Finals with an overtime win in Cedar Rapids. Colin Vock scored a shorthanded goal for the game-winner to put the Bucs 1-0 in this best of five series with Cedar Rapids. The Buccaneers got on the board first with a goal by Kyle Okposo midway through the first period. Cedar Rapids countered with a goal by Phil Axtell before first intermission. Cedar Rapids struck again early in the third period with a goal by Gary Steffes to put the RoughRiders up 2-1. Later in the period, Aaron Bendickson tied the game up at two forcing the game to overtime. With Trevor Lewis in the penalty box for cross checking, forward Colin Vock buried a shot from the blue line to get the win.

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Bucs Win to Take A 2-0 Series Lead
April 12, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers take a 2-0 series lead over Cedar Rapids tonight with the 3-1 victory at 95KGGO Arena. Aaron Palushaj, Kyle Okposo and Aaron Bendickson all notched a goal in the win. Cedar Rapids forward Chad Costello, a Des Moines native, scored the lone RoughRider goal. Buccaneers goalie Troy Davenport had another superb night between the pipes, stopping 39 of 40 shots. The Buccaneers will travel to Cedar Rapids for Game 3 on Friday, April 14th at 7:00pm. If the Buccaneers win, they will advance to the Clark Cup Finals against the winner of the Lincoln/Sioux Falls series. If the RoughRiders win, Game 4 will be played at 95KGGO Arena on Saturday, April 15th at 7:30pm.

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Three Bucs Invited to NHL Draft Combine
April 13, 2006

Seven USHL players eligible for the 2006 NHL Entry Draft have been invited to the League's annual Draft Combine to be held May 30-June 3 at the Park Plaza Toronto Airport Hotel. They include: Des Moines forwards Trevor Lewis and Kyle Okposo and defenseman Jeff Petry; Green Bay defenseman Eric Gryba; Lincoln defenseman Carl Sneep; Omaha forward Ryan Turek; and Sioux Falls forward Andreas Nodl. Goaltender Jeff Zatkoff (Sioux City, 2004-05), who just finished his freshman season at the University of Miami-Ohio, was also invited. The Draft Combine will give NHL clubs a chance to evaluate hockey's future stars just three weeks prior to the NHL draft. Each NHL club will be represented at the Combine by scouts, management and athletic training staff. The players will conduct interviews with the clubs and undergo medical examinations and fitness testing. The invitees represent the NHL Central Scouting department's top-rated 70 skaters and nine goaltenders from North American leagues and the projected top 36 European skaters and goaltenders. The NHL will release its final rankings of draft-eligible players on April 20. The 2006 NHL Entry Draft will be held Saturday, June 24 at General Motors Place in Vancouver and broadcast nationally in Canada on TSN and in the United States on OLN beginning at 6 p.m. (EST).

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Bucs Sweep Cedar Rapids
April 14, 2006

The Buccaneers came away with a 5-3 victory over the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders to advance to the Clark Cup Finals.  They will face the winner of the Sioux Falls/Lincoln series (series tied 1-1).  Rich Purslow, Jeff Petry, Trevor Lewis, Ben Ryan and Colin Vock each scored a goal for the Bucs in the win.  The Buccaneers will play for the Clark Cup!  Their next opponent will be either Sioux Falls or Lincoln.  They will be back to the "Madhouse on Hickman" on Saturday, April 22nd at 7:30pm to battle for the cup.  Be sure to visit the Bucs website often to get the latest information about the Bucs race for the Cup!

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Three Bucs Make Final NHL Central Scouting List
April 21, 2006

Twenty-nine players with USHL ties, including 23 who skated in America's Tier 1 League in 2005-06, were recognized on the NHL Central Scouting Bureau's final rankings for 2006 draft-eligibles released on Thursday, the most by any U.S.-based junior league or program. The final ranking features the top 210 skaters and 30 goaltenders in North America and top 160 skaters and 18 goaltenders from Europe. "This is another tremendous accomplishment for our league," said USHL president Gino Gasparini. "It's a credit to our coaches, ownership groups and especially our players as we continue to get more and more recognition from the NHL."

Leading the way is Des Moines forward Kyle Okposo. Listed No. 11 overall among North American skaters, the USHL Rookie of the Year and University of Minnesota recruit finished sixth in league scoring with 27 goals for 58 points. Lincoln defenseman Carl Sneep is listed No. 26 among North Americans, while Des Moines forward Trevor Lewis, the USHL Player of the Year, is ranked No. 30. Des Moines defenseman Jeff Petry was also selected. (No. 36 among North American skaters).

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Bucs Win Game One of the Clark Cup Championship
April 22, 2006

Tonight at 95KGGO Arena the Des Moines Buccaneers defeated the Sioux Falls Stampede 2-0. The victory gives the Buccaneers a one game lead in the best of five championship series. The Buccaneers were lead by the sensational goaltending of Troy Davenport, who stopped all 20 shots he faced to secure the shutout. Aaron Bendickson struck first for the Buccaneers at 9:04 in the first period. The goal, assisted by Aaron Palushaj and Colin Vock, proved to be the difference. Rich Purslow added an insurance goal 12:59 in the third period to secure the victory for the Buccaneers. The Clark Cup Finals continue next Wednesday April 26, in Sioux Falls South Dakota . If a game 4 is necessary it will be played Saturday April 29,in Des Moines at 95KGGO arena at 7:30 pm.

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Stampede Drop Bucs in Game 2
April 26, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers found themselves on the short end of a 5-2 game in Sioux Falls tonight. Sioux Falls tied up the Clark Cup Finals series at one. The Bucs found themselves down 2-0 just three minutes into the contest. The Bucs could not make up that two goals despite their hard efforts. Shane Sims and Kyle Okposo scored the two Buccaneer goals.

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Okposo Scores Game 3 Winner in Overtime
April 28, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers came away with a 3-2 overtime win over the Sioux Falls Stampede tonight in Sioux Falls. Kyle Okposo tallied the overtime goal to put the Buccaneers up 2 game to 1 in this best of five series. It was a very even game throughout regulation. Sioux Falls struck first in the first period on Casey Parenteau's goal. The Buccaneers answered on Donnie Hallmark's goal just 35 seconds later. Sioux Falls struck again early in the second period on Mark Magnowski's goal just 52 seconds into the period. Two minutes later, the Buccaneers answered again on a Trevor Lewis goal. Game 4 will be played at 95KGGO Arena at 7:30pm tomorrow night. Tickets are going fast so be sure to get your tickets early by calling 515-278-9757. Be sure to come out and support your Buccaneers as they have a chance to win the Clark Cup Championship tomorrow night in Des Moines!

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Buccaneers Clinch Fourth National Championship
May 1, 2006

The Des Moines Buccaneers were crowned Tier 1 national champions after their 3-2 win over the Sioux Falls Stampede in the decisive Game 5 of the Clark Cup finals before a sellout crowd of 4,764 at Sioux Falls Arena on Monday night.

Buccaneers forward Kyle Okposo was named the Planet Hockey Clark Cup Playoffs Most Valuable Player after scoring five goals (including two game-winners) and 11 assists in all 11 postseason games. He was also a plus-12.

Des Moines jumped out to an early lead in Game 5 on Colin Vock's goal at the 1:58 mark of the first period (assisted by Okposo). In the second, the Buccaneers extended their lead to 2-0 on a Rich Purslow marker (unassisted) before Sioux Falls' Andreas Nodl (assisted by Chris Peluso) and Drew Akins (assisted by Corey Tropp and Jake Bauer) struck for goals to tie the game at two apiece. Ben Ryan rang up the unassisted game-winner at the 4:19 mark of the third period. Between the pipes, Troy Davenport made 18 saves, while Sioux Falls' Alex Kangas turned aside 31 shots. The Buccaneers were 0-for-3 on the power play; Sioux Falls went 1-for-3. Des Moines finished with a 9-2 record in the postseason, sweeping both Green Bay (3-0) and Cedar Rapids (3-0) before defeating Sioux Falls (3-2).

It's the Buccaneers fourth Clark Cup championship in their 26-year history and first since the 1998-99 season when future NHLers Peter Sejna (St. Louis Blues) and Noah Clarke (Los Angeles Kings) helped Des Moines to the title. Des Moines finished with the USHL's worst record in 2004-05 with 40 points (17 wins).

This year, under the direction of General Manager of the Year Regg Simon, who also serves as the team's head coach, the Buccaneers finished tied atop the East Division standings with 72 points (33 wins). The Clark Cup, presented annually to the playoff champions of the nation's only Tier 1 circuit, is named in honor of Don Clark, the longtime registrar of the Minnesota Amateur Hockey Association. Clark was also the recipient of the NHL's Lester Patrick Award for his contributions to hockey in the United States.