Watch the Grrrowl LIVE in playoff action!
March 27, 2009
Playoff schedule confirmed; Grrrowl to play Wooster in best-of-three series starting Friday
March 23, 2009
WOOSTER- The second-seeded Findlay Grrrowl will play for a chance to advance to the Knox Cup finals and will battle the third-seeded Wooster Oilers in a best-of-three series beginning Friday at 1:30 PM at Alice Noble Arena in Wooster. All games will be held at Alice Noble Arena.
The series will feature two games played on Friday and a possible Game 3 on Saturday starting at noon, if the series is not decided on Friday.
The winners of the Grrrowl-Wooster series will advance to the finals and match-up against the winners of the 1-seed Jamestown Jets vs. 4-seed Penn Enforcers series, beginning at 8:00 PM on Sat. March 28.
Game 2 of the finals is scheduled for Sun. March 29 at 1:00 PM with Game 3 at 7:30 PM, if necessary.
Below is specific playoff times and match-ups.
| Friday 3-27-09 | 10:30 am | Penn vs. Jamestown |
| 1:30 pm | Wooster vs. Findlay | |
| 4:30 pm | Penn vs. Jamestown | |
| 8:00 pm | Wooster vs. Findlay | |
| Saturday 3-28-09 | Noon | if needed game three of either of these series |
| 8:00 pm | game one of the championship series | |
| Sunday 3-29-09 | 1:00 pm | game two of the championship series |
| 7:30 pm | if needed game three of the championship series |
Grrrowl splits series to close out regular season
March 21, 2009
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl concluded its 2008-09 regular season over the weekend but could not close out the Jamestown Jets in its final series at The Cube on Saturday as they dropped their season finale 7-5, forcing a split following a Grrrowl win by the same score on Friday.
In the finale the Grrrowl had a cushy 5-2 advantage after two periods but suffered a third-period meltdown and let its lead fade quickly as the Jets scored four goals in four minutes en route to a come-from-behind win.
The Grrrowl attempted to tie the game late but fell short when Jamestown’s Dan Igielinski applied the dagger with an easy open-net score from mid-ice with 12 seconds left to play.
With the loss the Grrrowl failed to sweep the Jets in consecutive series after sweeping the first-place team in a series at The Cube last weekend.
The Grrrowl topped the Jets 7-5 on Friday with the help of Brock Donnelly’s first hat trick of the season to take the first game of the series.
With the game locked at four at the start of the third period, the Grrrowl emerged with three scores from Chris Clark, Donnelly and Derek Sulpizio to take a 7-4 lead late in the game. The Jets added one with under a minute remaining but it was too little too late to catch the Grrrowl, which won its third straight against the Jets.
Donnelly added a score on Saturday and finished with four scores and an assist in the series. Chris Gendron, who had a pair of goals and assists, and Josh Tucker, who recorded a goal and four assists, were also key contributors for the Grrrowl.
With his goals, Donnelly surpassed Zach Bachnak as the team’s leader in goals scored this season. The team scoring title has incited friendly competition between the pair of Grrrowl all-stars throughout the season as they entered the series tied with 25 goals apiece.
Bachnak did not score in the last two series though he was not absent from the score sheet as he piled up nine assists over the last four games, keeping his point total among the league’s leaders with 68 on the season.
Head Coach Dave Erickson was enthused about the Grrrowl’s performance of late as the team looks ahead toward the playoffs.
“I was very satisfied with how our team performed the last two weekends against the toughest team we’ve played all season and probably the guys we may have to go through to win the [Knox] Cup,” Erickson said.
“I think we head into the playoffs with a lot of confidence and knowing that we can beat anybody, including Jamestown, and we’re ready for the challenge.”
The Grrrowl (22-20-6) now prepare for the playoffs which start March 27 in Wooster.
Grrrowl splits series to close out regular season;Playoff details yet to be confirmed
March 21, 2009
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl concluded its 2008-09 regular season over the weekend but could not close out the Jamestown Jets in its final series at The Cube on Saturday as they dropped their season finale 7-5, forcing a split following a Grrrowl win by the same score on Friday.
In the finale the Grrrowl had a cushy 5-2 advantage after two periods but suffered a third-period meltdown and let its lead fade quickly as the Jets scored four goals in four minutes en route to a come-from-behind win.
The Grrrowl attempted to tie the game late but fell short when Jamestown’s Dan Igielinski applied the dagger with an easy open-net score from mid-ice with 12 seconds left to play.
With the loss the Grrrowl failed to sweep the Jets in consecutive series after sweeping the first-place team in a series at The Cube last weekend.
The Grrrowl topped the Jets 7-5 on Friday with the help of Brock Donnelly’s first hat trick of the season to take the first game of the series.
With the game locked at four at the start of the third period, the Grrrowl emerged with three scores from Chris Clark, Donnelly and Derek Sulpizio to take a 7-4 lead late in the game. The Jets added one with under a minute remaining but it was too little too late to catch the Grrrowl, which won its third straight against the Jets.
Donnelly added a score on Saturday and finished with four scores and an assist in the series. Chris Gendron, who had a pair of goals and assists, and Josh Tucker, who recorded a goal and four assists, were also key contributors for the Grrrowl.
With his goals, Donnelly surpassed Zach Bachnak as the team’s leader in goals scored this season. The team scoring title has incited friendly competition between the pair of Grrrowl all-stars throughout the season as they entered the series tied with 25 goals apiece.
Bachnak did not score in the last two series though he was not absent from the score sheet as he piled up nine assists over the last four games, keeping his point total among the league’s leaders with 68 on the season.
Head Coach Dave Erickson was enthused about the Grrrowl’s performance of late as the team looks ahead toward the playoffs.
“I was very satisfied with how our team performed the last two weekends against the toughest team we’ve played all season and probably the guys we may have to go through to win the [Knox] Cup,” Erickson said.
“I think we head into the playoffs with a lot of confidence and knowing that we can beat anybody, including Jamestown, and we’re ready for the challenge.”
The Grrrowl (22-20-6) now prepare for the playoffs which start March 27 in Wooster. Exact details such as match-ups and specific game times have yet to be finalized and will be released early this week. Stay tuned to findlaygrrrowl.com for updates.
Grrrowl set for rematch against Jamestown in season finale; Findlay High School hockey to be recognized
March 19, 2009
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl prepares for its inaugural season finale as it gets set to rematch the Jamestown Jets in a pair of games Friday and Saturday at The Cube. The games will start at 6:30 Friday and 4:30 Saturday.
The Grrrowl swept a Jets squad which had just eight rotating players in a series at The Cube last weekend. The Grrrowl outscored the Jets 18-9 in the series as it increased its season record to 21-19-6.
Since returning to home ice in late January after a long stretch of games on the road, the Grrrowl is 9-3 with a 7-1 record at The Cube.
The Grrrowl however faces the challenge of going up against a full, rested Jets squad this weekend and anticipates a heated series as it prepares for the playoffs which is scheduled for Mar. 27-29.
Details for the playoffs have yet to be finalized and will be posted as soon as it is made available on the Grrrowl web site at findlaygrrrowl.com.
Friday's game will feature the Findlay Trojans High School hockey team who will be recognized as a special guest of the Grrrowl during the game's first intermission for its 2008-09 regular season and postseason success.
Tickets are available for purchase at either Great Scot supermarket location or at the ticket counter on game day.
Grrrowl completes sweep of short-handed Jets
March 14, 2009
FINDLAY- Josh Tucker had two goals and two assists and the Findlay Grrrowl took care of a tired and under-manned Jamestown squad Saturday in a 11-3 rout of the Jets at The Cube.
The first-place Jets had only eight rotating players for both games during the series and the Grrrowl pounced on the tired squad, outscoring them 18-9 during the series and completing its fourth sweep in its last five series.
The Grrrowl swept a Jets squad that has had the best of them all season. The Grrrowl was 1-4-1 against the Jets this season before this series.
Brock Donnelly had a pair of scores and one assist and Errol Wolfe scored and had an assist in his first action of the season for the Grrrowl. Goalkeeper Louis Morin even joined in on the action, removing his keeper gear and notching an assist as an honorary winger for the Grrrowl.
Jay Simko added some comic flavor as well as he replaced Morin in goal for the remaining seven minutes and recorded four saves. He allowed two goals in that span though appeared unphased by the pair that slipped by in his goalkeeping debut.
In a tighter contest, the Grrrowl scored five third-period goals behind captain Chris Gendron’s pair in the final five minutes of regulation to seal a 7-6 win in the first game of the series Friday night.
Despite their clear man-advantage the Grrrowl struggled to tire its opponents to submission and took a five-goal surge in the third period to secure a manageable, but slight two-goal lead with five minutes to play.
The Jets notched one goal with under three minutes left but the Grrrowl sustained its one-goal advantage and secured the win.
The Grrrowl outshot the Jets 46-32 in the contest.
Josh Tucker and Zach Bachnak led the way in points for the Grrrowl. Tucker had three goals and three assists and Bachnak piled up five assists in the series.
The Grrrowl (21-19-6) will most likely will play the Jets again in a pair of games next weekend at The Cube. Details are still undecided about the games, including the playoffs which will be played March 27-29. The location and specific format for the playoffs is also yet to be determined. Stay tuned to www.findlaygrrrowl.com for updates on the conclusion of the Grrrowl season.
Grrrowl splits series, snaps 3-game skid
February 28, 2009
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl overcame a season-high 54 penalty minutes, snapped its 3-game losing streak and avenged a disappointing Game 1 loss to force a series split in a 7-5 win over the Penn Enforcers Saturday at The Cube.
In a game that never seemed to capture a smooth flow and was frequently stopped by the sound of officials’ whistles, the teams still sustained an offensive battle and exchanged goals throughout the contest.
The Grrrowl, which led 5-4 after 2, pulled ahead for good when the Enforcers misjudged its urgency to tie the game late in the third and decided to advance its goalkeeper up the ice. Grrrowl right-winger Zach Bachnak then secured the puck and scored on an open net from mid-ice.
Bachnak’s score with 3:23 remaining solidified the late advantage and ultimately sealed the win.
The Grrrowl played short-handed often as a result of its 21 penalties, including a first-period ejection of key defenseman Kevin O’Connor, though found itself matching up evenly with its opponents as the Enforcers had 16 penalties of its own.
“Somehow… we stood our ground and just found a way to win,” Head Coach Dave Erickson said. “We showed that guys can step up when we’re short-handed and finish strong.”
Derek Sulpizio had two scores and Jay Simko added a goal and an assist to help the Grrrowl avoid being swept in consecutive series.
On Friday the Grrrowl overcame a 4-0 deficit to tie on four unanswered goals in the second period but could not build on that momentum to secure a lead after a buzzer-beater by Penn’s Donald Geary regained the edge for the Enforcers to end the period.
The Grrrowl could not rebound despite having a one-goal deficit late in the third and a Mike Matthes score that brought the Grrrowl within one with just 5.3 seconds remaining. The effort still left the Grrrowl with virtually no time to face off and heave a last-ditch effort and attempt at the draw, resulting in a 7-6 loss..
Josh Tucker had another strong series with two goals and two assists, raising his point total to 29 in just 17 games played this season. Bachnak finished with a goal and three assists and increases his total to 59.
Grrrowl forward Kevin Tejchma did not play in the series due to suspension.
The Grrrowl (19-19-6) maintains its second place standing in the UJHL South and hopes to gain momentum as it begins its home stretch that precedes the playoffs which begins Mar. 27 in Wooster. The team wraps up its 2008-09 inaugural season with four home games beginning Friday Mar. 13 as it hosts the Philadelphia Thunder at The Cube.
Scout Night 2009, Friday at the Cube!
February 23, 2009
FINDLAY, OH- The Findlay Grrrowl will be hosting ‘Scout Night’ while the Grrrowl hosts the Penn Enforcers this Friday night starting at 6:30 PM.
Scout members of any organization are welcome to attend and will include a discounted ticket of $3 at the door, a free ‘Scout Night 2009’ puck and public address recognition for your represented group. Discounted tickets will also be permitted for any accompanied adult(s) or children.
For more information, please call (419) 930-1034 and register your scout for the event. Walk-ins are welcome, however pre-registration is recommended so that tickets may be arranged to pick up prior to the game.Grrrowl swept in Wooster
February 23, 2009
WOOSTER, OH- The Findlay Grrrowl was swept in a pair of games against its bitter rivals, the Wooster Oilers, over the weekend with losses of 5-4 on Saturday and 5-2 on Sunday.
The Grrrowl had a chance to seize momentum after Brock Donnelly’s late first period score tied the game at two apiece, but the team suffered 21 penalties, to Wooster’s 14, and could not generate any offense in the final two periods as the Grrrowl fell 5-2 on Sunday.
Louis Morin had 39 saves in the losing effort.
The Grrrowl jumped ahead 2-0 on Saturday with scores by Zach Bachnak and Josh Tucker and led 4-2 late in the game but let its lead slip out of its grasp.
The Oilers, fueled by Brandon McPhail’s two scores, put three goals past Findlay’s Lucas Fournier in the game’s final three minutes leading to Wooster’s successful come-from-behind victory by a final score of 5-4.
The sweep comes as a crushing blow to the Grrrowl, which had swept its previous three series and ends its six-game winning streak.
Despite the pair of losses, the Grrrowl (18-18-6) remains on top of the Oilers (15-18-7) in the UJHL South standings and has a five-point advantage over its rivals.
The Grrrowl hopes to regain momentum as it returns to The Cube this weekend and will host the Penn Enforcers Friday and Saturday. The action starts at 6:30 PM Friday and 4:30 PM Saturday.
Tickets for either game can be purchased in advance at any Great Scot location, by calling (419) 930-1034 or by stopping by The Cube on game day.Grrrowl to Wooster for weekend series
February 16, 2009
The Findlay Grrrowl will play its final road games of its inaugural season Saturday and Sunday as it heads to Wooster for a pair of games against the Oilers.
The Grrrowl currently maintains a slight lead over the Oilers for second place in the UJHL South.
The Grrrowl won its last road series in Philadelphia over the weekend of Feb. 7-8, which counted for three points in the UJHL standings and boosted its road record to 7-11-3 and 16-16-6 overall.
The games start at 7:00 PM Saturday and 4:30 PM Sunday and can be seen on Audio Sports Online, http://www.audiosportsonline.net/UJHL/2008Hockey.htm, the official webcast of the UJHL. Don't miss any of the action as the Grrrowl continues to contend for a UJHL Championship and the Knox Cup.
Grrrowl with third consecutive sweep, takes care of Thunder on road
February 8, 2009
ELKINS PARK, PA- The Findlay Grrrowl completed its fourth sweep this season and its first on the road as it took care of business and quieted the Philadelphia Thunder with ease in a pair of wins Saturday and Sunday in Elkins Park.
Brock Donnelly got things going on Sunday with two quick scores before his teammates joined him in the intensive offensive effort as seven other Grrrowl players joined in the scoring parade. The Grrrowl went on to rout the Thunder 11-1.
Forward Adam Gillikan had two goals and center Kevin Quinn emerged with a pair of scores and an assist in the victory. Quinn’s pair were his first of the season.
Josh Tucker also had a goal and an assist and Zach Bachnak, Kevin Tejchma, Chris Gendron and Sean Hagerty tallied scores of their own.
Lucas Fournier had 22 saves in the win equaling Louis Morin’s total From Saturday.
Gillikan finished with three goals and an assist and defenseman Kevin O'Connor had four assists in the series to lift the Grrrowl to its third straight sweep.
A tired Grrrowl squad, who had spent ten long hours on the bus prior to the game, handled Philadelphia in a 4-1 Game 1 win on Saturday.
The Grrrowl (16-16-6) have now won six straight UJHL games and continue to build momentum and become serious contenders for the Knox Cup this season. The team heads home to play St. Lawrence Friday and Saturday, Feb. 13-14 at The Cube. The series starts on Friday the 13th at 6:30 PM and concludes on Valentine's Day at 4:30 PM. Tickets are available in advance at either Great Scot location or by calling 419-930-1034.
Grrrowl prepares for long road trip, battle with Philadelphia
February 5, 2009
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl (14-12-4) prepares for an east-coast road trip Friday as it gets to face off with the Philadelphia Thunder in a pair of games Saturday and Sunday at The Rink Arena in Elkins Park, PA.
The Grrrowl hopes to take some momentum with them coming off of two consecutive home sweeps against the Wooster Oilers and Penn Enforcers after struggling on the road and dropping four of its previous six games.
The Grrrowl has reversed some of its bad habits since its last road stretch, minimizing penalty minutes and strapping down on defense after coughing up 30 goals in a four-game span.
The Grrrowl clearly struggles on the road, with a 5-8-1 record away from its friendly confines at The Cube.
Since then, the Grrrowl has outscored its opponents 25-14 in its consecutive home sweeps.
In the only meetings between the teams this season, the Grrrowl dominated the Thunder in the home-opening series in wins of 8-1 and 5-2 to complete the sweep Oct. 17-18 at The Cube.
Grrrowl wingman Zach Bachnak continues to be one of the league’s top offensive threats with 46 points (20 G, 26 A) this season. Josh Tucker has also come on strong opposite Bachnak at the other wing position, recording 16 points in just nine games played for the Grrrowl.
Grrrowl forward Kevin Tejchma and center Chris Gendron have also been key contributors with four goals apiece in the last two series.
The games this weekend can be seen at Audio Sports Online, the official webcast of the UJHL, beginning at 2:30 PM Saturday and concluding at 9:30 AM Sunday.
Grrrowl sweeps again, tops Penn in 2-game series
February 1, 2009
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl swept its second consecutive series and took care of the Penn Enforcers with ease over the weekend in 6-3, 6-2 wins Saturday and Sunday at The Cube.
The Grrrowl overcame penalty minutes and took advantage of injury and depth shortcomings on the Penn roster and dominated in each contest, out-shooting its opponents 47-32 on Saturday and 53-43 on Sunday, and controlling possession throughout each game.
The Grrrowl performed sound defense as well and kept the Enforcers from threatening on offense.
The Grrrowl unleashed shots on Penn GK, Mike Mastracci, who was suffering through a groin injury, and put the Enforcers away with five third-period goals during the series.
Zach Bachnak had two goals in each contest and finished with four goals and an assist and Josh Tucker had two goals and three assists in the series. Chris Clark had a score and three assists as well to aid in the Grrrowl sweep.
In a non-league contest on Friday, the Grrrowl fell to Wooster 5-1. The game did not count in the UJHL point standings.
The Grrrowl (14-12-4) continues to build momentum and gain more ground in the UJHL South as they head to Philadelphia this weekend to face off with the Thunder Saturday and Sunday. The games can be seen on Audio Sports Online, the official webcast of the UJHL, starting at 2:30 PM Saturday.
The Grrrowl returns home to The Cube Feb. 13-14 to battle Canadian foe St. Lawrence. The series starts on Friday the 13th at 6:30 PM and concludes on Valentine's Day at 4:30 PM. Tickets are available in advance at either Great Scot location or by calling 419-930-1034.
Grrrowl to play in Wooster Friday, return home for weekend series
January 30, 2009
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl heads to Wooster for one game against its cross-state rival Friday night before returning home to play its regularly-scheduled series versus the Penn Enforcers Saturday and Sunday.
The game starts at 8 PM and can be seen on Audio Sports Online, the official webcast of the UJHL, at http://www.audiosportsonline.net/UJHL/2008Hockey.htm. Game times this weekend at The Cube remain as scheduled at 4:30 PM Sat. and 11:30 AM Sun.
The Grrrowl continue to challenge the Oilers for second-place standing in the UJHL South. A Grrrowl sweep over Wooster last weekend moved them just one point shy of second place and a win on Friday would leapfrog them into that spot.
The Grrrowl has the advantage in the season series with a 5-4-1 record against its cross-state foes.
The Grrrowl, who is coming off a pair of impressive wins, will host a Penn team who was swept in three games to the Philadelphia Thunder last weekend and has lost nine straight. The Grrrowl however is just 2-2-2 against the Enforcers this season and was deadlocked in a pair of ties when they last met back on Nov. 22-23 at The Cube.
Tickets are available in advance by calling 419-930-1034, stopping by either Great Scot supermarket or by arriving at The Cube prior to game time.
The Findlay Grrrowl is a member of the Tier III United Junior Hockey League (UJHL). For more information on the team, such as the latest news, scores and stats, please visit the Grrrowl online at www.findlaygrrrowl.com.
Grrrowl completes sweep of Wooster
January 25, 2009
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl quietly made a statement to the rest of the league and completed its first sweep since its home-opening weekend in a 8-5 victory over the second-place Wooster Oilers Sunday at The Cube.
Mike Balogh had two scores and three assists in a victory in which the Grrrowl out-shot its opponents by a 43-29 margin and, for the second consecutive day, conserved on penalty minutes.
A late second-period scuffle, which resulted in the ejections of Mike Matthes and goalkeeper Louis Morin and initially seemed to go in Wooster’s favor, turned into Grrrowl momentum following two quick goals by Balogh and Zach Bachnak. The scores put the Grrrowl in front 6-4 and ended the second period with a manageable advantage.
Goalkeeping tandem Lucas Fournier, who had 15 saves, and Morin, with 14, kept the Oilers in check and allowed the Grrrowl opportunities to stretch the lead late in the game. Fournier took Morin’s place following the second-period ejection.
The Grrrowl held off the Oilers in the third with goals by Chris Gendron and Kevin Tejchma and coasted through the final minutes to secure the win.
The Grrrowl was penalty-free in Game 1 which set the tone for a thrilling 5-4 win Saturday on late heroics by Kevin Tejchma who slapped in the game-winner with seven seconds remaining.
Bachnak, who sat out Game 1 with pain in his right knee, returned on Sunday and added a goal and two assists. Gendron also had two goals in the contest and finished with four in the series.
The Grrrowl, who fell behind in the losing column in a series against the Jamestown Jets last weekend, gets back to the .500 mark (12-12-4) and hopes to carry momentum into this weekend’s series against the Penn Enforcers, who trail the Grrrowl by mere points in the UJHL South standings.
The puck will drop at 4:30 Saturday and 11:30 AM Sunday this weekend at The Cube. For tickets, stop by either Great Scot location, call 419-930-1034 or purchase tickets at The Cube on gameday.
Grrrowl returns to The Cube! Saturday-Sunday Jan. 24-25
January 19, 2009
The Findlay Grrrowl return home to The Cube this weekend after a four-week stretch on the road, including last weekend’s UJHL Showcase, as they prepare for two games with the Wooster Oilers beginning Saturday at 4:30 and wrapping up the series on Sunday at 11:30 AM.
The Grrrowl (10-12-4) enters the series hoping to get back into form having lost three straight games after being swept in Jamestown Jan. 9-10 and splitting a series in Wooster Dec. 30-31. The Grrrowl had won three of its previous five games prior to that.
The Grrrowl split its last home series back on Dec. 6-7 as they fiercely avenged a Game 1 loss in a 9-3 rout of UJHL-frontrunner Team Ulysse. The team possesses a 5-4-3 record at The Cube this season.
To order tickets in advance, please call (419) 930-1034, stop by any Great Scot location or purchase tickets at the door on game day.
Grrrowl suffers sweep in Jamestown
January 10, 2009
JAMESTOWN, NY- The Findlay Grrrowl could not salvage a series split late in the game Saturday and continued to allow goals in bunches as the Grrrowl fell 8-5 to the Jamestown Jets after a similar outcome and final score of 9-5 in Game 1 on Friday.
With the game tied 5-5 with just five minutes remaining in the third period, the Jets took advantage of a tired Findlay lineup and finished with three easy scores to seal the win.
The Grrrowl suffered a pair of injuries and served costly penalty box minutes, including one ejection, which consequently shrunk the Grrrowl bench for most of the second and third periods.
Defenseman Chris Clark left the game after receiving a puck to the face and Mike Balogh suffered a minor concussion. With the injuries and penalty minutes the Grrrowl was forced to continue without three key defensemen for remainder of the game.
Despite the obvious setbacks however, the Grrrowl kept it close and nearly positioned itself late in the game to ground the confident Jets and pull off the upset.
On Friday the Grrrowl stumbled early and could not control the Jets’ offensive attack despite Louis Morin’s 43 saves in the losing effort.
Key contributors for the Grrrowl were Mike Shanahan, Adam Gillikan and Chris Gendron who each had two goals and three assists in the series.
Defense continues to stranglehold the Grrrowl of late, after allowing 17 goals in the series and 29 in the last three games. The Grrrowl has been outscored 29-15 in that stretch after two straight wins and winning three out of its last five games and outscoring its opponents 23-16.
The Grrrowl goes to 10-12-4 on the season and returns to Jamestown Friday to take part in the very first UJHL Showcase Weekend at Jamestown Savings Bank Arena. The festivities will include three exhibitions to be played on Friday and a skills competition followed by the All-Star game on Saturday.
The Grrrowl returns home to The Cube after a four-week stretch on the road when it faces off with the Wooster Oilers over the weekend of Jan. 24-25. Tickets are available in advance at any Great Scot location, by calling (419) 930-1034 or arriving at The Cube on gameday.
Grrrowl set to take flight with first-place Jets
January 9, 2009
JAMESTOWN, NY- The Findlay Grrrowl will begin a two-game series Friday when they face off with UJHL South frontrunner Jamestown Jets at Jamestown Savings Bank Arena.
The Grrrowl (10-10-4), having split its last three series and underperformed in a lackluster series with the Penn Enforcers Nov. 22-23 in which they tied both games, look to break out of its mediocre play of late and make a statement against the Jets (21-8-3), a team which continues to play on a hot streak having won four straight, with all four coming in a five-day stretch last week.
The Grrrowl has played the Jets well this season, with a 1-2-1 record in two series and by a close scoring margin of 25-22 in the Jets’ favor.
The teams met last over a thrilling Halloween weekend series when the Grrrowl surged from behind to tie the Jets late in the game and succeeded in the 6-6 draw following a 6-3 loss on Halloween night.
“We need to play well this series and come out with a win or two so we can go into the All-Star break and show everyone that we mean business,” Head Coach Dave Erickson said.
Both games Friday and Saturday start at 7:30 at Jamestown Savings Bank Arena.
Grrrowl fails to sweep, splits series with Wooster
December 31, 2008
WOOSTER- The Findlay Grrrowl failed to close the series with archrival Wooster Oilers and were dominated by a final score of 12-5 Wednesday in the second of two high-scoring games at Alice Noble Ice Arena.
For the second consecutive night the Oilers jumped ahead early. Though down 6-1 early in the second period the Grrrowl struck back and scored three goals within a 1:30 span.
With the Oiler lead cut down to 6-4 the momentum subsided almost immediately after the Grrrowl got back in the game.
Plagued by penalties, the Grrrowl were outscored 6-3 in the second. They trailed 9-4 going into the third and could not escape the deepening deficit as the game progressed.
With Wednesday’s loss, the Grrrowl (10-10-4) fail to leapfrog the Oilers for second place in the UJHL South Division. They have split five of their last six series, having only swept its opponent once this season.
Zach Bachnak had two goals and two assists to power the Grrrowl to a 6-3 win over the Oilers on Tuesday.
The Oilers jumped ahead early with two scores in the first five minutes of the game but were thereafter outpaced by the Grrrowl who scored five unanswered goals that stretched into the third period.
The Oilers could not account for Bachnak who was involved in four of the Grrrowl's six scores and seemed virtually everywhere on the ice. Grrrowl goaltender Chad Karns had 44 saves in the contest.
Bachnak had two goals and three assists and Josh Tucker had two and two to lead the Grrrowl in the series. Brock Donnelly had a score and three assists.
The Grrrowl will be on the road again this weekend (Jan. 9-10) as they face off with the division-leading Jamestown Jets at Jamestown Savings Bank Arena. The Jets lead the UJHL South at 18-8-3.
Grrrowl reaches midway point in season, prepares for four-game stretch
December 29, 2008
FINDLAY- After a long break over the holiday the Findlay Grrrowl returns to action this week as the team prepares to play four games in five days.
The Grrrowl (9-9-4) travels to Wooster Tuesday and Wednesday in a two-game series with the arch-rival Oilers before continuing its road trip with a pair of weekend games in Canonsburg, PA against the Penn Enforcers on Friday and Saturday.
The Grrrowl have been idle since Dec. 14 when they came away with a 6-3 win and a series split in Wooster.
In six games the Grrrowl are 2-3-1 against second-place Wooster this season and have split the last two series with the Oilers. They have been outscored 29-21 in the season series but will bring the UJHL South’s best defense having allowed just 106 goals.
The Grrrowl is third in the division in total goals scored and fifth overall in the league with 98.
Both games in Wooster start at 6:30 PM beginning on Tuesday at Alice Noble Ice Arena.
Grrrowl splits series in Wooster
December 14, 2008
WOOSTER- The Findlay Grrrowl split yet another series in a pair of games against the Wooster Oilers over the weekend.
Grrrowl goalkeeper Louis Morin had 29 saves after coming in for starter Lucas Fournier who allowed three goals on seven shots in the opening minutes Saturday as the Grrrowl could not overcome the early deficit and fell to the Oilers 5-1 in the first game of the series.
The Grrrowl rebounded in a 6-3 win on Sunday cushioned by Chad Karn’s 32 saves and a pair of goals by Mike Shanahan and Josh Tucker.
The Grrrowl was able to sustain its lead and come away with the victory in Sunday’s game after suffering 13 penalties to Wooster’s three.
In addition to Shanahan and Tucker’s roles, Adam Gillikan scored once along with an assist and Kevin Tejchma had two assists in the game to help the Grrrowl avoid being swept for the second consecutive weekend.
The Grrrowl remain even on the season (9-9-4) and are idle next weekend. They will resume Dec. 30-31 when they travel back to Wooster for two games before going to Canonsburg, PA for a pair against the Penn Enforcers Jan. 2-3.
The Grrrowl won’t return home until Jan. 24 and 25 when they host Wooster at the Cube. Contact the Grrrowl in advance for tickets at (419) 930-1034 or stop by Great Scot supermarkets.
Grrrowl avoids sweep, splits series with Team Ulysse
December 7, 2008
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl didn't let its Canadian foes finish what it started and fiercely avenged its Game One loss Sunday in a 9-3 rout of UJHL frontrunner Team Ulysse in the second of two games at the Cube.
Forward Adam Gillikan scored twice in 30 seconds to power the Grrrowl to a 4-0 lead en route to a six-goal first period and the Grrrowl did not look back, forcing a split in the weekend series and avoiding a sweep on its home ice at the hands of its visitors from Montreal.
Ulysse had the initial momentum and jumped out of the gates early with six shots in the first two minutes but the Grrrowl would steal the momentum for good after Brock Donnelly’s goal with just three minutes underway.
Gillikan’s pair would cushion the lead the Grrrowl needed to momentarily stay ahead of the league’s top team and keep them from imminent striking distance. The Grrrowl led 6-1 after the first period.
The Grrrowl however stretched its lead with two second-period goals, including Sean Hagerty’s first of the season, and one in the third, one of two scores in the game for Josh Tucker.
The Grrrowl was able to sustain its lead throughout the game by managing the game with sound, physical defense and controlling Ulysse’s balanced offensive attack. Ulysse came away with just two goals and 12 shots on goal in the final two periods. The Grrrowl outshot Ulysse 40-23.
On Saturday the Grrrowl struggled mightily to control the pace of Ulysse’s speedy offense and defensive zone and did not score until Gillikan’s goal in the third period. The Grrrowl would fall by a final score of 5-1.
Gillikan emerged as the Grrrowl’s new offensive threat during the series with three goals and an assist. Adam Strasser, also a new member of the Grrrowl, had a goal and three assists to add another key role in the series.
The Grrrowl (8-8-4) will hit the road this weekend to face off with its cross-state rival Wooster Oilers. The puck drops at 7:00 Saturday at Alice Noble Arena.
Grrrowl hosts Team Ulysse in upcoming weekend series
December 2, 2008
The Findlay Grrrowl returns to its home ice this weekend as it faces off with Team Ulysse of the UJHL's North Division Saturday and Sunday at the Cube.
There's no better time to lose the sitter, grab the kids and head to the Cube for what should be an exciting series with the Grrrowl's friendly Canadian foes who ride high into Findlay with an 11-2-1 record and a first-place standing in the UJHL.
Despite sitting atop the league, Team Ulysse will be looking to bounce back coming off of a tie and a loss over the weekend. They tied Harrington College 5-5 Friday and fell 6-4 to St. Lawrence Saturday.
The Grrrowl (7-7-4) themselves hope to rejuvenate and reverse its midseason struggles after consecutive ties to Penn Nov. 22-23. They however are 5-4-3 since beginning its home schedule on Oct. 17, with 10 of its last 12 games at the Cube.
You can order your tickets in advance by calling (419) 930-1034, by stopping at either of the Great Scot supermarkets or purchasing tickets at the door on game day.
Grrrowl, Penn deadlocked with 2 ties in weekend series
November 23, 2008
FINDLAY- For the second consecutive day the Findlay Grrrowl let the lead slip from its grasp, resulting in its second tie in as many games and a 4-4 final score at the Cube Sunday.
With the Grrrowl preserving a late one-goal lead with under a minute to play, Penn’s Kyle Ralston slapped one past Findlay’s Chad Karns to tie the score at four with just 19 seconds remaining, virtually sealing the fate of the series as a stalemate.
Down 2-0 early in the second period, the Grrrowl answered back with three goals, giving the team its first lead. Despite the sudden shift in momentum, the Enforcers were able to answer back and tie the game with 43 seconds left in the period, wiping the slate clean for an even third period.
New arrival John Logothetis put the Grrrowl ahead in the third with six minutes to play. Sound defense by the Grrrowl allowed them to preserve their lead until the late Ralston score spoiled the would-be win.
The Enforcers spoiled a late third-period Grrrowl lead on Saturday as Penn’s Ben Terhaar scored the game-tying goal with 1:44 remaining.
Typically the turning point in the game, the third period remains a problem for the Grrrowl who have proven to perform at their best when trailing however struggles to close out games when clinging onto a slim lead or tie late in the game.
Brock Donnelly had two scores along with an assist and Mike Lezotte and Chris Clark each had a goal and two assists in the series.
The Grrrowl (7-7-4) break for the Thanksgiving holiday this week before returning to the Cube Dec. 6 and 7 for a pair of games against Team Ulysee. The first game will be Saturday the 6th at 4:30. Tickets will be available at the door on game day, in advance at Great Scot supermarkets or by calling 419-930-1034 for pre-order.
Grrrowl splits weekend series with Wooster
November 17, 2008
WOOSTER- The Findlay Grrrowl fell 6-2 in its opening match against the Wooster Oilers Saturday in the first of two games at Alice Noble Arena but came back and finished the series strong, defeating the Oilers 7-3 in Game 2 Sunday.
The Grrrowl fell behind early in Saturday’s game and could not capture any momentum as the Oilers ran away with the victory.
On Sunday, the Grrrowl performed at their level and overcame the Oilers’ persistent physical play, as Kevin Tejchma’s two goals and Zach Bachnak’s three assists fueled the Grrrowl win to cap the series. The Grrrowl won despite being outshot 55-33 in the game.
Bachnak had two goals and three assists and Tejchma finished with three goals on the weekend. Brock Donnelly added another key performance with a goal and three assists in the series.
Grrrowl newcomer, Lucas Fournier, earned his first win at goalkeeper in a brilliant performance on Sunday with 52 saves, which is already the highest amongst Grrrowl goalkeepers this season. Louis Morin had 20 saves in the Game 1 loss.
The Grrrowl (7-7-2) will host the Penn Enforcers this weekend at the Cube beginning Saturday at 4:30 and wrapping up the series at 11:30 Sunday. The Grrrowl split its series with Penn Nov. 7-8 at the Cube.
Tickets are available in advance by stopping by your local Great Scot supermarkets, at the door on game day or by calling 419-930-1034.
Grrrowl travels to Jamestown, Wooster for 3-game weekend road trip
November 13, 2008
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl will hit the road this weekend for what will be a rare 3-game road trip beginning with a one-night stop in Jamestown Friday to battle the first-place Jets and then to Wooster for a pair of games at Alice Noble Arena Saturday and Sunday.
The trip should prove to be pivotal, as the Grrrowl (6-6-2) trail both Jamestown (11-6-1) and Wooster (6-10-2) in the UJHL standings and look to gain some ground in the division.
The Grrrowl kept the Jets landed in their last meeting as they split the series in a pair of back-and-forth, high-scoring games over Halloween weekend at the Cube. One week prior the Grrrowl had an early 2-0 lead against the Oilers but lost overwhelmingly 9-2 in Game 1 and took nearly all of regulation until a late score with eight seconds remaining to draw even in Game 2 as the Grrrowl avoided the sweep at home.
In the absence of the team’s former leading goalscorer, Chris Gendron, Grrrowl forward Zach Bachnak looks to continue his assault on opposing defenses coming off five goals and eight assists in his last four games.
Louis Morin will take over as the starting goalie for the Grrrowl, replacing Andy DiCristofaro who was released this week.
The puck will drop at 7:30 Friday in Jamestown, 7:00 Saturday and 4:00 Sunday in Wooster. You can catch all the action at http://www.audiosportsonline.net/UJHL/2008Hockey.htm.
DeGregario game-winner avoids series sweep, forces split with Penn
November 8, 2008
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl led 5-1 entering the third period Saturday but let the lead fade into a late tie and a one-goal deficit before a late rally and winning Steve DeGregario score with under a minute to play powered the Grrrowl to a 7-6 win over the Penn Enforcers.
Kevin Tejchma’s score with 1:07 remaining evened the score at six and rejuvenated the Grrrowl in the final minute. The Grrrowl kept the pressure and with 32 seconds remaining, DeGregario found an open net and knocked it in to clinch the victory for the Grrrowl, who bounced back from a one-goal loss to the Enforcers Friday.
Tejchma had three goals in the game, and Zach Bachnak and Ryan Chance each had three assists for the Grrrowl, who now improve to 6-6-2 on the season.
One day earlier, the Grrrowl fell just short after another late comeback attempt. This time down 5-1 entering the third period, the Grrrowl was able to chip away at its deficit but could not come up with the tying score in the final two minutes following Jeff Scherrer’s late goal with 1:54 remaining. The Grrrowl would lose by a score of 5-4.
The Grrrowl out-shot the Enforcers 54-31 and had heavy pressure on the offensive end but couldn’t convert when it needed throughout the first two periods.
Bachnak had 5 assists on the weekend and continues to lead the Grrrowl with 22 points on the season. DeGregario and Scherrer each scored and had two assists in the series.
The Grrrowl will visit in-state rival Wooster for a weekend series beginning Saturday at Alice Noble Ice Arena. Visit Audio Sports Online for the games this weekend plus more coverage from around the UJHL at http://www.audiosportsonline.net/UJHL/2008Hockey.htm.
The Findlay Grrrowl is a member of the Tier III United Junior Hockey League (UJHL). For more information on the team, or for ticket information, please call Matt Deighton at 419-930-1034, or visit us at our web site at www.findlaygrrrowl.com.
Grrrowl honor Veterans Saturday, host Penn Enforcers in weekend series
November 6, 2008
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl will host the Penn Enforcers in the first of two home games beginning Friday night at the Cube and concluding on Saturday when the Grrrowl recognize and honor the Veterans of the community.
The Grrrowl (5-5-2) come off of a thrilling series split with the first-place Jamestown Jets last weekend and battle the last-place Penn Enforcers (5-11).
The Grrrowl is currently tied with the Wooster Oilers in the UJHL points standings.
Grrrowl forward Zach Bachnak looks to continue his emergence as one of the league’s top producers, coming off of a five goal, three assist weekend against the Jets. He has nine goals and eight assists on the season.
Game times are 6:30 Friday and 4:30 Saturday. Ticket orders can be placed in advance by calling 419-930-1034 or purchase tickets at Great Scot supermarkets or at the door on game day.
Grrrowl come close, but fall just short of sweep in weekend series versus first-place Jamestown
November 1, 2008
FINDLAY- The Jamestown Jets scored with just over a minute in regulation Saturday in what would be the dagger to the side of the Findlay Grrrowl, earning the team its 10th win of the season in a 6-4 victory over the Grrrowl.
The result split the series and put an end to the thrilling weekend showdown at the Cube.
Jamestown's Dean Wolfe's score with 1:31 remaining cemented the lead late in the game and kept a late comeback by the Grrrowl just out of reach.
The Grrrowl fell behind the Jets repeatedly during the game but persistently evened the score, which allowed for a heated third period to determine the winner for the second consecutive night.
Like the Grrrowl on Friday, the Jets were the aggressors and took control in the final period, outscoring the Grrrowl 3-1 despite Findlay's heavy attack late in the game.
The Jets outshot the Grrrowl by a slim margin 30-26, but were able to score when it counted with the help of its speedy forwards Sean Cirbus and Joe Coyne who each had two scores.
On Friday, The Grrrowl were down 3-1 after the first period and were locked up going into the third but came out and outscored the Jets 4-1 in the period, led by Zach Bachnak who scored twice in the final minute of the game to seal the win. The Grrrowl prevailed 9-7 in the thrilling series opener.
Bachnak led the charge for the Grrrowl with five goals and three assists on the weekend.
The Grrrowl, who after being dominated in Jamestown several weeks ago and coughing up a five-goal third-period lead in its last meeting, showed heart and composure in each game of the series and took advantage of the Jets' road woes. The Jets were 1-3-1 on the road entering the weekend series.
Following the series, the Grrrowl are now 3-2-1 at home at the Cube this season.
The Grrrowl (5-5-2) will continue on its homestand next weekend against the Penn Enforcers. Face off starts at 6:30 Friday night at the Cube. For tickets in advance, call 419-930-1034 or stop by the ticket counter on game day.
Grrrowl season just heating up!
October 31, 2008
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl hope for a breakout weekend as it will combat the high-powered and first-place Jamestown Jets in what should be two thrilling games at the Cube.
The Jets split its series with the Philadelphia Thunder last weekend and head to Findlay coming off of a 6-5 loss Saturday. The Grrrowl are coming off its thrilling power-play goal in the final seconds of Saturday's 3-3 draw to Wooster.
Clearly dominant on its home ice at 8-1, the Jets, however, bring a 1-3-1 road record to the Cube, which should make things a little interesting for the Grrrowl who are looking to rebound from a tough series last weekend against Wooster and gain some momentum in the league.
They also look to get some revenge against the Jets, who on Oct. 3 and 4 defeated the Grrrowl and rallied with a five-goal third period to force a tie in Game 2 of the series.
Although they have struggled in the season's early-going, the Grrrowl has played well since returning home following its long road trip. They are 2-1-1 on its home ice, and 2-3-1 on the road this season.
Jamestown (9-4-1) sits alone atop the UJHL and lead the Penn Enforcers and Thunder in the points standings.
The series kicks off tonight at 6:30, with doors opening at 5:45 at the Cube. For tickets just stop in or call 419-930-1034 in advance.
Grrrowl tie in final seconds to avoid weekend sweep to Wooster
October 25, 2008
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl came just eight seconds short of dropping both of its weekend games to the Wooster Oilers Saturday before a late game-tying goal by Ryan Chance locked up the score at three as time expired.
The Grrrowl had the puck at its attacking red line following a stoppage in play and were able to swing it around its attacking goal. The puck traveled through Chris Clark, Chance and Zach Bachnak and then back to Chance who quickly turned and threaded the puck between Wooster goalkeeper, Kody Martin, and the left post.
Chance also added an assist in the game as he and John Brooks connected with Chris Clark in the second period to put the Grrrowl up 2-1. Brock Donnelly had the first Grrrowl score in the first period.
With 33 saves, goalkeeper Andy DiCristofaro kept the Grrrowl in reach of tying or even going ahead, however an Oiler score in the third period forced the Grrrowl to hope for the tie in the late-going.
The Grrrowl were ahead 2-0 in the first period Friday but let the floodgates open in the second, allowing 6 goals. Wooster added three in the third and cruised to a 9-2 victory.
Following the weekend series, the Grrrowl move to 4-4-2 on the season. Wooster advances to 4-8-2.
The Grrrowl will be in action once again this Halloween weekend as it faces off with the first-place Jamestown Jets at the Cube. Tickets are available at your local Great Scot supermarkets, by calling in advance at 419-930-1034 or at the door on game day.
The Findlay Grrrowl meet impending cross-state rivals this weekend
October 23, 2008
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl will battle the Wooster Oilers on Friday in what could become the start of a fierce rivalry with its in-state counterparts, and the first of two weekend matchups at the Cube Arena.
The Grrrowl, 4-3-1, have a minimal lead over the Oilers, 3-8-1, in the league standings, which should provide for an evenly-matched weekend series as the young season begins to heat up.
The puck drops at 6:30 Friday night and 4:30 Saturday. Tickets are available by calling in advance at 419-930-1034 or at the gate beginning at 5:45 when the doors open at the Cube.
If you can't make it to the game, don't forget that Grrrowl action will be shown live on the web site.
Grrrowl off to hot start at home in weekend sweep of Philadelphia
October 19, 2008
FINDLAY – The Findlay Grrrowl felt right at home over the weekend, routing the Philadelphia Thunder 7-1 Friday and capping off the home-opening series with a 5-2 win on Saturday at the Cube Arena.
Grrrowl center, Chris Gendron, led the charge in front of a crowd nearing 300 at the Cube for the home-opener, scoring five goals and assisting on one.
Chris Clark added two scores and goalkeeper, Andy DiCristofaro, recorded 24 saves and came just 37 seconds shy of his first shutout of the season as Philly’s Brad Penk was able to slip one by him just before the finale.
The Thunder kept the game tight in Game 2 Saturday until two third period goals sealed the victory for the Grrrowl.
Gendron added one onto his weekend total and Clark tallied another two in the game as the Grrrowl was able to add the insurance goals it needed to sustain the lead in the third and hold off the late Thunder-ous attack by Philadelphia.
GK Louis Morin held his own in goal in Game 2, shielding Philly’s attack with 36 saves.
The Grrrowl’s Kevin Quinn, Michael Lezotte and Derek Sulpezio each had 2 assists over the weekend.
With the sweep, the Grrrowl improve to 4-3-1 on the season and also prove to be a force to be reckoned with as the season progresses. The team will enjoy plenty more of its home-ice advantage, as it continues its long homestand this weekend against the Wooster Oilers, who barely trail the Grrrowl in fourth place in the league standings.
Doors open at 5:45 Friday at the Cube and the puck drops at 6:30. Tickets for games Friday and Saturday are available at your local Great Scot supermarkets, by calling 419-930-1034 or at the door on game day.
For scores, stats & news from around the United Junior Hockey League, visit www.theujhl.com.
The Findlay Grrrowl bested by first-place Jamestown
October 6, 2008
JAMESTOWN, NY –The Findlay Grrrowl rallied from behind to tie late in Game 1 Friday and held a commanding lead throughout Saturday’s Game 2, but the team still could not find a way to bring home a win over the weekend against the first-place Jamestown Jets.
Although it was a chilly fall weekend, the host Jets brought the heat all weekend and executed when it mattered most- late in the game, specifically in the third period, which continues to be a problem for the Grrrowl.
On Friday, the Grrrowl, down 3-1 entering the third period, rallied to tie the game at three before stumbling late in the period. The Jets scored three quick goals and did not look back, winning by a score of 6-3.
The Grrrowl bounced back in Saturday’s game and held a commanding 5-1 lead heading into the third period, but it wouldn’t be enough to hold off the Jets, whose late offensive surge led to a Grrrowl meltdown of the lead and a 6-6 draw.
Key performers for the Grrrowl were Derek Sulpezio and Zach Bachnak, who each scored twice, and Jeff Scherrer who had three assists.
The Grrrowl, 2-3-1, will look to bounce back this weekend as it faces off against the Philadelphia Thunder in Philadelphia before returning home for its home opener Oct. 17.
The Findlay Grrrowl splits weekend series at Harrington
September 29, 2008
QUEBEC - The Findlay Grrrowl returned home Sunday following a weekend split with the Harrington College Icebergs in Quebec, Canada.
In its second consecutive 2-game split on the road, the Grrrowl rallied from behind to beat the Icebergs 6-5 in overtime in the opening match before falling 8-1 in Game 2 on Sunday.
Center Brock Donnelly's game-winning score in OT sealed the Game 1 victory for the Grrrowl before the team's shaky loss Sunday, which pulled the Grrrowl's record to even once again at 2-2.
In Game 1 the Grrrowl found itself trailing late in the second period before a sudden 2-goal surge that sent the game into second intermission tied at 4. Both teams tacked on one more in the third period to send the game to overtime.
Grrrowl defenseman Michael Lezotte and wingman Zach Bachnak played key roles in the game, each scoring one goal and adding an assist.
Jordan Rees recorded the team's lone goal in Game 2, but it wasn't enough to overcome the avenging Icebergs who sent the Grrrowl packing quickly.
The Grrrowl continues with its road schedule this weekend as it faces off with the Jamestown Jets, who are 4-2 and 4-0 at home.
The Findlay Grrrowl follows up weekend split to play Harrington this weekend
September 25, 2008
FINDLAY- The Findlay Grrrowl split its series with the Penn Enforcers over the weekend and will head northbound into Quebec, Canada Saturday to challenge the Harrington College Icebergs.
The Grrrowl was overpowering in its season opener Saturday, routing the Enforcers 8-1, but were humbled in Game Two Sunday, falling 5-1.
Grrrowl forward, Steve DeGregorio, started the season on fire scoring three goals and adding one assist in the weekend series. Center Chris Gendron and right wingmen, Zach Bachnak and Jordan Portillo, each scored and recorded an assist.
The Grrrowl starts the season even at 1-1 and will travel to Harrington Saturday. The time of the game has not yet been announced. Penn goes 3-1 following the weekend series.
The Findlay Grrrowl announce the hiring of the team's new Head Coach
September 12, 2008
TOLEDO- The Findlay Grrrowl Hockey Club, with its owners, Pat Pylypuik and Barry Soskin, have announced the hiring of the team’s new head coach, Dave Erickson. Erickson joined the Grrrowl organization this week and will command the team as it heads into its inaugural 2008-09 season, which kicks off Sept. 20 when the team visits the Penn Enforcers in Canonsburg, PA. Erickson, a resident of Findlay, brings an impressive resume of leadership and experience from a rich hockey background.
Erickson has spent the last five years coaching youth hockey. The last three years he has been significantly involved with the Toledo Cherokee Junior Hockey Club where he coached the 1992 and 1998 age groups and led the ’92 squad to Nationals. He spent the previous two years as a coach with the Findlay Amateur Hockey Association (FAHA).
Erickson attended the University of Findlay, majoring in marketing and business management. He also played for the university’s hockey program prior to its compliance in 2004.
Erickson is originally from British Columbia, Canada where he played junior hockey for the Olds Grizzlys in Alberta for three seasons and was named an All-Star twice and the league’s Outstanding Defenseman in his final year.
Erickson replaces the Grrrowl’s former head coach, Jeff Zunich, who recently resigned due to personal reasons.
“Dave possesses strong character and excellent coaching and leadership abilities and we look forward to having him lead our team,” Pylypuik said.
“I’m excited,” Erickson said. “It’s good to bring a quality team back to Findlay and the leadership this team brings is a good thing for the city.”
The Findlay Grrrowl is a member of the Tier III United Junior Hockey League (UJHL) represented by some of Northwest Ohio’s and Southeast Michigan’s top junior hockey players. For more information on the team, or for ticket information, please call Matt Deighton at 419-930-1034, or visit us at our web site at www.findlaygrrrowl.com.
