tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1334523990013078852024-03-13T04:31:40.196-07:00Hockey GuidesHelpful Ramblings on Hockeystevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-6715099635444908672010-03-23T03:12:00.001-07:002010-03-23T03:12:44.998-07:00Take Fun During a Vacation to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Seth Hargraveis</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>Pittsburgh is usually a city in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Having a population of over 350,000 folks and an region that covers many square miles, it really is one in the largest cities within the state of Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh lies where the Monongahela River and the Allegheny River meet, forming the Ohio River. The rivers and mountains surrounding the city make for a exclusive terrain. Because of this, the metropolis developed as numerous separate, distinct regions or neighborhoods. Every single region has different includes that make the city an excellent traveling destination for the young and old alike.<br /> <br /> Millions of folks traveling to Pittsburgh each year for a variety of sporting events. Pittsburgh has expert football, hockey, and baseball teams, all of which are located inside the heart of down town. Whether you might be traveling to see the Steelers, Penguins, or Pirates, Pittsburgh's sporting occasions are a huge attraction. Inside summer months, Pittsburgh is also host to a variety of concerts, and you can find theatrical performances in a variety of areas year round.<br /> <br /> Pittsburgh is likewise a very historical town with countless fascinating locations and museums. Downtown is household towards Andy Warhol art museum as well as the Children's Museum. In Oakland visitors can go for the Carnegie Museum of Art at the same time as the Carnegie Museum of Normal History. Pittsburgh can be property towards Carnegie Science Center and numerous other museums too as a big and really popular zoo. Just outside of Pittsburgh there's also an amusement park acknowledged as Kennywood. The tiny park was founded in the late 1800s, but it remains a extremely well-liked tourist destination.<br /> <br /> Shopping and dining are also excellent in Pittsburgh. The numerous regions each and every feature an eclectic group of restaurants and distinctive shops. Pittsburgh is also residence to a number of shopping malls and most any well-liked chain restaurant a single could imagine. The Primanti Brother restaurant is an essential part of the Pittsburgh dining expertise. You will find various areas, but the original is located in the city's Strip District. The restaurant serves the renowned Primani Sandwich which characteristics two slices of fresh baked Italian bread piled high with toppings including cole slaw and french fries.<br /> <br /> No matter what your taste, Pittsburgh is really a city for folks of all interests. Since it really is not regarded to be a top take a trip destination, it can also be incredibly inexpensive to take a trip there as hotels are generally inexpensive. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>Learn tons of information online about electronics in Pittburgh related articles like <a target='_blank' href='http://www.beststereobluetoothheadset.com/blue-trek-stereo-bluetooth-headset-hi-fi-st1.html'>blue trek stereo bluetooth headset hi fi st1</a>. Check out Seth Hargraveis's newest site where you may learn information about <a target='_blank' href='http://www.beststereobluetoothheadset.com/bluetrek-stereo-bluetooth-headset.html'>bluetrek stereo bluetooth headset</a>. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-57747213691500744732010-03-06T12:48:00.000-08:002010-03-06T13:39:22.996-08:00Suggestions for Shopping for Hockey Presents<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Dave Vower</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>Finding a sports gift is not as difficult as you think that and hockey presents are also easy return by although they are not the second rate conventional presents that one is employed to purchasing however here are some recommendations on what one can purchase for an infatuated hockey player.<br /> <br /> Hockey players continuously want team jackets and shorts especially if they're regular players like those that play ice hockey their shirts get ripped and soiled easily. You can go a step more and personalize the team jacket by adding the name and number.<br /> <br /> Team caps which come in all different shapes and sizes can be worn by both males and females and these are great to give as hockey presents and are inexpensive. If the present is for a guy you could also buy him a set of drinking glasses or a coffee jug and have his team name and logo inscribed on the item.<br /> <br /> One can also buy them a hockey stick and have their name and number engraved on the stick which would make it rather special. Bean bags go down well for guys and you could have the team logo and his name and number printed on or you could obtain a photo of him and turn it into a caricature and then have it printed on.<br /> <br /> Different hockey presents like pucks, socks, helmets will additionally be obtained and these will all be personalised that makes them special as most players perpetually have their lucky something or other with them once they play.<br /> <br /> If the present is for a younger person then one might get autographed cards or photographs of their icons or a season ticket is additionally a nice gift. One can additionally obtain pucks that have been autographed by famous players. So as you can see there's definitely no shortage of ideas when it comes to purchasing a hockey gift. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>The author has been writing articles online for over 4 years now. Not only does this author specialize in health, fitness and relationships you can also check out his latest websites on <a target='_blank' href="http://www.hockeygifts.org/">Hockey Gifts</a> and <a target='_blank' href="http://www.hockeygifts.org/Roller_Hockey_Equipment.html">Roller Hockey Equipment</a> </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-85137336755710288222010-02-18T08:10:00.000-08:002010-02-18T08:29:19.951-08:00NHL Information<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By River Thomason</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>The Founding Age spans from the NHL firm in 1917 till a huge drafting for World War 2 in 1942. The six groups that stayed adopted a new moniker and the second time of the NHL commenced.<br /> <br /> The growth Time of the NHL lasted from the beginning of season 1967 until the end of the season in 1992. In this timescale, the NHL grew from the original six groups up to 20 two. This year proved to be a prospering time for the NHL and still ranks as it's highest scoring era. Also in the time, the concern over player safety grew and helmets became imperative beginning the 1980-81 season. In this time, the NHL also became involved in worldwide hockey playing the 1st time being the 1972 top Series. The fourth time of the NHL is the Modern Time. This age started in 1993 and is still continuing today.<br /> <br /> The original 6 is a phrase used to describe the six groups that made up the nation's Hockey League in the Original six age, the 20 five year time frame between the 1942-43 season and NHL enlargement in 1967. The original 6 teams of the NHL are the Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks, Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, Long Island Rangers and the Montreal Canadiens.<br /> <br /> In 1967, with the world economy and political climate more stable than in decades previous, six extra expansion groups joined the nation's Hockey League, bringing the team total up to twelve and ushering in a time for the NHL known as the enlargement time.<br /> <br /> The enlargement time of the NHL lasted from the start of season 1967 till the end of the season in 1992. In this time period, the NHL grew from the original 6 teams up to 20 two. This year proved to be a thriving time for the NHL and still ranks as it's highest scoring time. Also in the age, the concern over player safety grew and helmets became compulsory starting the 1980-81 season. In this time, the NHL also became concerned in world hockey playing the first time being the 1972 summit Series.<br /> <br /> The system was developed by a sir Clarence Campbell and it went as the following, the last place team at the end of the season will be permitted to make the 1st pick from the pool, and the chain will work its way up to the top seeded team in the league. The 4th time of the NHL is the Modern Time. This age started in 1993 and is still continuing today. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>River Thomason has been writing articles for many years. You can check out his latest hockey related work on <a target='_blank' href='http://www.streethockeygoalieequipment.net/'>street hockey goalie equipment</a> by visiting his new site on <a target='_blank' href='http://www.streethockeygoalieequipment.net/roller-hockey-goalie-equipment.html'>roller hockey goalie equipment</a>. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-83568886751928488322010-01-27T12:33:00.000-08:002010-01-27T12:49:09.539-08:00Custom Hockey Socks 101<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Joe Pied</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>Hockey is likely one of the most intense sports ever invented. Although technically speaking, hockey has a lot of forms; for instance ice hockey (used with ice skates), field hockey (no skates, only a field of grass/gravel), and street hockey (used with rollerblades). All these kinds of hockey are intense enough and can provide athletes and audiences alike a very enjoyable game.<br /> <br /> It's important, in any variety of hockey, for players to wear the proper clothes and especially the appropriate socks. Games can take place during cold or humid climates and a sock allows protection from any various extremes of the weather. Apart from protection from the climate, it can also become a mini-buffer against accidental strikes from pucks, hockey sticks, and even other players' feet. Getting hit in the shin can hurt a whole lot, you no doubt know.<br /> <br /> The standard model that's used in hockey will likely be the tube sock. It goes right below the knee and is particularly ideal for players. Manufacturers are often conservative with the designs and colors (black, white, or maybe some stripe variations) but you can choose to customize them with your logos, patches, etc.<br /> <br /> Choosing customizable hockey socks will be the best option for numerous hockey athletes. Of course, you have to make sure that the socks you're buying are really customizable. It's recommended also you choose the ones that are colored the way you want in case you are considering setting them up to go along with your team's preferred logo. Be sure you can easily add personalized texts, patches, etc.<br /> <br /> Your socks will need to be very durable. That means you should choose technical socks as opposed to the regular cotton ones. Technical socks free you from developing blisters because they are inclined to wick away the moisture. No more blisters, less sweaty, and less smelly.<br /> <br /> Apart from taking care of your feet, custom hockey socks are usually made to fit all sizes. You will not have to worry much about getting the incorrect one if you choose to go with custom socks. However, in order to be on the really safe side, ask for specific sizes in order to avoid any problems.<br /> <br /> You can decide to order 100 pairs, though it's better if you order 300 in bulk since it's generally more economical that way. Manufacturers basically charge you a lot if you subsequently order three times a 100 pairs. It's cheaper if you get 300 pairs in just one order because of the discount. Price is usually around 5 dollars a pair and also you can minimize this when you buy in bulk.<br /> <br /> The one thing about most manufacturers is they sometimes take at least 7 weeks to deliver your socks if you choose to buy on the internet. If you can find a manufacturer that says they'll deliver for under that time (like 6 weeks or less), then choose that one. Five to six weeks is generally the standard but some companies can deliver faster.<br /> <br /> Custom hockey socks are your best bet when you're looking for the right apparel for your team. They're comfortable, provides protection, and easily customizable. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>Visit <a target='_blank' href="http://www.custom-socks.com/hockey.html">Custom Socks</a> for high quality <a target='_blank' href="http://www.custom-socks.com/hockey.html">custom made hockey socks</a> ... </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-53396238366633348152009-12-17T12:39:00.000-08:002009-12-19T17:58:58.546-08:00Proline Hockey Picks<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Dan Jackson</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>Proline betting is one of the world's most concentrated sports book set-ups, offering players across Canada the opportunity to bet against various given sporting outcomes. Run by not-for-profit entities on behalf of the respective provincial governments, it offers cumulative odds on the results of NHL hockey, baseball and other sporting events, raising billions of dollars for public services, charities, research and the arts. But what's Proline all about, and how does it actually work?<br /> <br /> Proline is effectively a state-run sports book, offering individuals the chance to bet on multiple sporting events. Picking the results of between 3 and 6 events, odds are accumulated to determine a payout at fixed decimal odds (with returns obviously greater for 6 correct predictions than 3). It is this multiplier effect that makes playing Proline an attractive proposition for sports fans and gamblers alike and as a result of the cumulative odds the highest payout ever recorded on a Proline bet was $304,000.<br /> <br /> And because it is government operated, getting involved is as easy as heading down to your local convenience store and making your selection from the available sports on offer, including, baseball, football and of course, hockey.<br /> <br /> One of the main difficulties with Proline betting for the gambler is the tight odds it offers. Unlike independent bookmakers based in foreign jurisdictions, the odds offered with Proline don't leave much room for profit when factoring in the occasional loss. That means it's even more important to make sure you're capitalizing on your bet by identifying the most likely outcomes and leveraging the odds in your favor.<br /> <br /> Conceptually, the true odds of a gambling outcome and the odds paid by the bookmaker diverge, giving the bookmaker his margin. With Proline, this is even more emphasized in two key ways - the odds offered being naturally lower than offshore market odds, and the exclusion of the bet in paid-out winnings. As such, the gambler needs to make sure that all factors have been taken into account in order to ensure a long-term profit, and it can seem deceptively simple to pick three correct outcomes when actuarially-speaking, the odds on offer are lesser than the odds of the predicted outcome.<br /> <br /> Perhaps the most effective way of improving your chances of making a profit from Proline betting is through the use of algorithmically driven betting software. Based on applied mathematics, software applications can improve the consistency of betting outcomes by computing and interpreting data in a non-biased, wholly objective way, helping you pick the best selections to make up your Proline bet. In other words, through the use of Proline specific betting software, it is possible to more frequently hit a winning ticket - whether that's across 3 or 6 events.<br /> <br /> Proline is fun to play, and it can be profitable too if you know what you're doing. Provided you make sensible, rational choices when making your bets (and that means not always backing your favorite team), it is possible to generate a consistent return on your bets whatever your sport of choice. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'><a target='_blank' href="http://www.Prolinehockeypicks.com">Prolinehockeypicks.com</a> developers of the Hockey Adviser software program which predicts the outcome of NHL hockey games. Never pay for <a target='_blank' href="http://www.Prolinehockeypicks.com">hockey picks</a> again using this revolutionary hockey betting software. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-20803311879123413112009-12-14T06:06:00.000-08:002009-12-16T18:31:44.298-08:00The 2010 Vancouver Olympics Are Just Around The Corner<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By John A Moore</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>The 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games are just around the corner. Worldwide excitement is starting to build. The Winter and Summer Olympics are some of the most watched sporting events in the world. The countdown has started and the opening ceremonies will commence in a little over two months from now. Vancouver was given the honor of these games over 5 years ago and has been busy getting ready ever since. Calgary 1988 was a huge success and everyone expects the same for Vancouver 2010.<br /> <br /> The Winter Olympics are an international multi-sport event held every four years. They feature sports held on ice or snow. Events including alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, figure skating, ice hockey, Nordic combined, ski jumping, and speed skating have been at every Winter Olympic Games since their inception. Other events such as luge, short track speed skating, bobsled, and freestyle skiing have been added over the years.<br /> <br /> The Vancouver Olympic Games will be held in the City of Vancouver as well as a number of different places around Vancouver. Vancouver is located on the Pacific Ocean in the lower mainland portion of the province of British Columbia. The other British Columbia towns and villages that will assist in hosting the Winter Games are Richmond, Whistler, and West Vancouver.<br /> <br /> The first ever Winter Olympics were held in Chamonix, France in 1924. These were the first Games dedicated solely to athletic pursuits on snow and ice. Prior to these games, hockey and figure skating had included as events in the Summer Olympics. Since that time, the Games have been held every four years with the exception of 1940-48 due to World War II. From 1924 until 1992, the Winter Games and Summer Olympics were always held in the same year. In 1992, in an attempt for a larger audience, the Winter Games split from the Summer Games.<br /> <br /> The Winter Olympics are considerably smaller than the Summer Olympics. There are much fewer events in the Winter Games and there is a full week less of competition. There are also fewer countries participating. Fewer countries participating make sense as all of the completions take place on either ice or snow and there are many countries that naturally have neither of these surfaces. With that said there are a number of typically tropical countries that do participate. The most famous of these tropical competitors is the Jamaican bobsled team.<br /> <br /> In anticipation of the Vancouver Olympics, the Canadian Olympic Association developed a program with the lofty goal of Canadian athletes achieving more Olympic medals than ever before. This program has been called "Own the Podium" and has been in effect over the past number of years. The results of this program will be seen at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>Go to <a target='_blank' href="http://vancouver--olympics.blogspot.com">2010 Vancouver Olympics</a> to find out more about <a target='_blank' href="http://vancouver--olympics.blogspot.com/2009/10/vancouver-olympics-2010.html">Vancouver Olympics 2010</a>. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-9409217517419304342009-11-02T23:40:00.000-08:002009-11-04T18:28:00.273-08:00Crosby's Shootout Winner Gives Penguins Victory Over Blue Jackets<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Ross Everett</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>The Columbus Blue Jackets learned a valuable lesson about NHL hockey on Friday night-it's dangerous to 'sit on a lead' and particularly against the defending Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins. Down 3-1, Pittsburgh tied the game late in the third period as Ruslan Fedotenko and Alex Goligoski each lit the lamp with less than three minutes remaining. After a scoreless overtime period, Sidney Crosby scored the only goal of the shootout to give the Penguins an improbable 4-3 victory. It was the 9th win in ten games for Pittsburgh, who are a perfect 6-0-0 on the road. Columbus lost for the fifth time in six games.<br /> <br /> NHL hockey betting enthusiasts cashed wagers on the road underdog Penguins, but on the moneyline at +117 and the puckline. Pittsburgh has gotten off to a great start this year, going 11-2-0 in the first month of the season. Columbus is struggling to stay above .500 at 6-5-1. The 7 combined goals scored went OVER the posted total of 5'. The Blue Jackets have gone OVER in 7 of 12 games this season, while the Penguins have a NHL totals mark of 5-7-1.<br /> <br /> Crosby's game winning score in overtime wasn't exactly the stuff of highlight reels, with the puck barely trickling over the line:<br /> <br /> "It was kind of a fluky. The puck kept going. I don't know if he lost it or he didn't know where it was or whatever. I just tried a quick shot. I thought he had the save there. It just trickled in."<br /> <br /> Jackets' goalie Steve Mason gave this version of events:<br /> <br /> "It hit my stick and I didn't get it settled until it was over the line. It just trickled over and I was too late on it."<br /> <br /> Penguins' left winger Chris Kunitz scored a shorthanded goal and praised the leadership abilities of team captain Crosby:<br /> <br /> "It shows a lot of character from our captain. He goes out and he's never quitting on anything. Sometimes a team goes packing, down by two with 3 minutes left. But he goes out, he's on the bench, he's saying, 'Let's get the next one.' So we go out there and he finds himself the puck and he gets it to Goligoski, he gets a great shot and puts it in the net to get us to overtime."<br /> <br /> Columbus' Rick Nash suggested that his team is having trouble 'closing out' games:<br /> <br /> "We're not closing games. We got the lead in a lot of the games already and just can't seem to close it out. They are the defending Stanley Cup champions. You can tell why they're such a good team. We are a team that needs to learn how to play with the lead."<br /> <br /> Pittsburgh will host Minnesota on Saturday night before heading to southern California next week for games against the Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks. Columbus will play at Washington on Sunday before hosting the San Jose Sharks next Wednesday. That'll be followed by a game in Atlanta against the Thrashers the next night. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>Ross Everett is a freelance sports writer specializing in mixed martial arts, classical music and <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com">sports betting</a>. He serves as staff handicapper for Sports-1 Sportsbook, and has appeared on numerous TV and radio broadcasts giving advice for how to successfully <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com/sports/basketball/nba.php">bet on NBA basketball</a>. He lives in Las Vegas, Nevada with three dogs and several beehives. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-91206781677999034232009-11-02T19:19:00.000-08:002009-11-07T13:41:29.840-08:00Ducks Rout Canucks In NHL Hockey Action<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Ross Everett</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>After losing the services of starting goalie Roberto Luongo for the indefinite future with a broken rib, the Canucks may have breathed a sigh of relief too soon after backup goalie Andrew Raycroft's performance in his first game in relief. After an excellent effort in an overtime victory over Los Angeles, Raycroft was torched for four goals in two periods before being pulled from the game. Corey Schneider, recently recalled from Manitoba of the AHL, played the third period in net giving up three more goals as Anaheim cruised to a 7-2 victory. The Canucks scored twice in the first five minutes of the game to lead 2-0 before giving up seven unanswered goals.<br /> <br /> Anaheim has struggled to a 4-6-1 record this season, but rewarded their backers who chose to lay the -164 price as home favorites with the Ducks. The Canucks evened their record on the season at 7-7 with the loss. The 9 combined goals put on the board sailed OVER the posted total of 6.<br /> <br /> The Ducks snapped a four game losing streak with the offensive outburst. After spotting Vancouver a 2-0 lead early in the game, Corey Perry and Bobby Ryan each tallied two goals and an assist in the lopsided victory. Mike Brown had the eventual game winning goal in the second period with his first career shorthanded marker, and even enforcer George Parros got in on the act with his first goal of the year. Jonas Hiller was sharp in goal for Anaheim, stopping 36 of 38 shots in the victory.<br /> <br /> Vancouver's problem this season has been not getting enough shots on goal and giving up too many. In the shootout victory over Los Angeles on Thursday, they were outshot 29-12 in regulation. They'd been kept in a number of games they should have lost due to the goaltending virtuosity of Luongo, and this game didn't bode well for his absence. This was only the second time in eight games Vancouver has allowed more than two goals, a testimony to the ungodly skill of Luongo more than their defensive tenacity. They actually held a 38-34 shots on goal advantage despite the one sided tally on the big scoreboard.<br /> <br /> Raycroft is expected to be back between the pipes for Vancouver's next game, a Sunday home date against the Colorado Avalanche. The Canucks will host the New York Rangers on Tuesday night before a road game against the Minnesota Wild on Thursday. Anaheim will play at Phoenix on Saturday night before returning to the Honda Center for the next two games. They'll host the defending Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday before welcoming the Nashville Predators to southern California later in the week. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>Ross Everett is a freelance sports writer and noted expert on NHL hockey, fine cigars and <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com">sports betting</a>. He has written extensively on casino gambling and <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com/sports/basketball/nba.php">NBA basketball betting</a> strategies. He is currently working on a history of the building of Hoover Dam. He lives in Nevada with two Jack Russell Terriers and a large hive of bees. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-53474727607482326802009-10-31T03:09:00.000-07:002009-11-01T21:23:58.288-08:00The All Star Weekend Has Come and Gone<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Chris Parker</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>The All-Star Weekend has come and gone, meaning NHL teams have ramped up their play for the important stretch drive. The final 30 or so games that so-often determine not only who will battle in the first round, but also who will make the post-season "show" at all. And as much I've enjoyed watching Chris Chelios' 45th season (it's actually his 25th. It just seems like his 45th) and his efforts to hack opponents black and blue, or Sean Avery's self-destruction, or the usual coaching carousel, or Crosby and Ovechkin's highlight reel plays, it's my "recreational" (insert 'drop-in', or 'shinny', or 'old-timers' as applicable) hockey season that has my toes a-tingling right now. Really, is there a sweeter smell in the world than cracking open that hockey bag each week? Sure, Chanel No. 5 is nice, but we're talking well-seasoned hockey gloves here people - no contest!<br /> <br /> While millions of people of people nation-wide just don't get what we're talking about, or don't get it yet, hundreds of thousands of hockey fanatics like me (like you?) spend the tail end of each summer counting the weeks and days until their hockey leagues or weekly groups again hit the ice. We are a brotherhood, a fraternity, proud to have paid our dues in the heavy slot, the corners, the "trolley tracks" and the penalty box.<br /> <br /> After summers of fattening up on golf and beer, we winter athletes head the yearly call of the ice and head to rinks from coast to coast to begin stretching out those lungs, and ridding ourselves of the dreaded "jell-o" legs . I still vividly remember my first game this year; I wheezed and gasped for air so loudly, the players in the adjoining arena came over to look thinking Sergei Makarov was back in Canada. But really, isn't that horrible deep-in-your-chest feeling what the start of the season is all about? Knowing that that's as bad as it is going to get. That you are only going to skate faster, deke better, and pass more crisply as each game goes by. Of course, by the end of the season, you're playing at the level you should have been at all year, only to find that it's all done and you're zipping up the gear all safe and sound until Fall arrives again. Ahhh, the life of a serious athlete... Nothing better.<br /> <br /> We are so glad you have chosen to visit us here at FarParker, your complete hockey source and resource. And, thank-you also for donating a few minutes of your life to give my column a whirl. In fact, you may at this very moment be thinking "what can I, the reader, expect to see in this column in the weeks and months ahead?" Well, let me tell you. I will be tackling all-things hockey, providing my own unique insight and tons of skewed opinions on such topics as the NHL's possible expansion to Europe, fighting in hockey, the David Frost trial, unfair travel schedules for the NHL's western teams, Don Cherry - asset or ass___le?, hockey's golden days of the early 80's, as well as equipment reviews and comparisons, prospects to watch, and much more...<br /> <br /> Wanna put your two cents in? Hit me up via email at nutzforhockey@hotmail.com to share your thoughts on what you've read, dispute my irrefutable opinions, or just to let me know what you'd like to see in future columns. Who knows, if you've got moxie, you may just see your comments or questions addressed in future columns.<br /> <br /> Strap yourselves in hockey fans; it's going to be a great year! - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>Chris & Steve Parker are the founding members of <a target='_blank' href=" http://www.farparker.com">http://www.farparker.com</a> your complete online recreational hockey resource destination. Find out more about your favorite hockey team in our forum section, we also have the best articles, blogs and games room on the net. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-56555934657014251922009-10-27T09:24:00.000-07:002009-10-27T15:14:59.336-07:00Boston Bruins' Scoring Legend Phil Esposito<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Ross Everett</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>Although many of his offensive records have now been left in the dust by Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux, former Boston Bruins/New York Rangers center Phil Esposito is still regarded by hockey experts as one of the greatest players in NHL history.<br /> <br /> A native of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Esposito was signed by the Chicago Blackhawks as a teenager. After some time in junior hockey, he was called up to the NHL in 1964 quickly earning a spot on the teams top line between Bobby Hull and Marcel Dionne. In 1967, Esposito was traded to the Boston Bruins along with Ken Hodge and Fred Stanfield.<br /> <br /> It wasnt long before Esposito started to destroy long standing NHL records. In 1969, he became the first NHL player to top the 100 point mark (combined goals and assists) for the season"he obliterated the record with 126 points, which would be the first of six times that hed top the century mark. He topped 100 points in five straight seasons between 1971 and 1975, missing a sixth straight season by a single point with 99 in 1970. Bruins fans were fond of displaying car bumper stickers that read Jesus Saves; Esposito scores on the rebound.<br /> <br /> In the 1970-71 season, Esposito smashed the NHL record for most goals in a season with 76. That record stood for over a decade until Wayne Gretzky scored 79 for the Edmonton Oilers in 1981-82. Gretzky also broke Espositos single season points record of 154. Even now, only four other players including Gretzky have scored more than 150 points in a season and only five others have scored more than 76 goals in a season. Perhaps the most amazing element of Espositos game was the frequency with which he put the puck on net"Espo had 550 shots on goal in 1970-71. No one has since come close"in fact, just last Alexander Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals became the first player to come within 100 shots of Espositos mark.<br /> <br /> In 1975, Esposito was traded with Brad Park to the New York Rangers for Brad Park, Joe Zanussi and Jean Ratelle. By that point, he had been slowed considerably by knee injuries but his experience, intelligence for the game and nose for the puck made him a valuable component of the Broadway Blueshirts offense and he was named team captain. Until the very end of his career, he remained a dangerous scoring threat that all opposing teams were forced to reckon with.<br /> <br /> After his retirement in 1975, moved into the executive suite. He served as the GM of the Rangers before helping secure an expansion team for Tampa, Florida in 1992. Esposito served as the President and GM of the Tampa Bay Lightning until 1998. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>Ross Everett is a consulting handicapper for Sports-1 and an authority onprofessional hockey history and <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com">NHL hockey betting</a> . He's a published expert on sports handicapping theory, as well as stock and investment strategy. He contributes to a number of websites providing insight on how to <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com">bet on NFL football</a>, hockey and mixed martial arts. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-57456816537767843972009-10-27T08:05:00.000-07:002009-10-27T14:24:48.282-07:00Montreal Dominates Swooning New York Islanders<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Ross Everett</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>The Montreal Canadiens have gotten off to a slow start this season, and entered Thursday night's game against the New York Islanders having gone thirteen games without a win in regulation dating back to last season. Apparently, all they needed to cure their ails was a team that was struggling more than they are. The Habs jumped on them early scoring three goals in the first two periods en route to a 5-1 victory at the Bell Centre. Montreal improved to 4-5-0 with the victory while the Islanders dropped to 1-4-3.<br /> <br /> NHL hockey betting devotees who weren't scared away by the -180 home favorite price tag on Montreal cashed their tickets with the Canadiens' big win. It was the sixth win for the Habs in their last eight meetings with the Islanders. The six goals scored just managed to go OVER the posted total of 5'. The Canadiens went OVER for only the fourth time in nine games, while the Islanders have gone OVER in five of their nine contests.<br /> <br /> The struggling Montreal offense finally woke up, helped by a 43-22 shots on goal advantage. When Montreal opened a 2-0 lead in the first period it marked the first time this season that they'd led by more than a goal, a fact that surprised left winger Mike Cammalleri:<br /> <br /> "We're making it hard on ourselves. That's something -- I didn't realize that until right now but that makes sense. Every game's been so tight, and it's important to try and win in tight games and find ways to win those games but at the same time you can't do that 82 times a year and then however many games in the playoffs, so it was important to get out to a little bit of a lead and hang on to one tonight."<br /> <br /> Montreal goaltender Jaroslav Halek played well in relief of starter Carey Price, but lost his shutout bid when he misplayed a puck just seconds into the final period. Cammalleri described a conversation he had with Halek after the game:<br /> <br /> "After the game I went to give him a hug and he said, 'I don't like shutouts. And I said, 'Well, you better like shutouts!' But he played great when we needed him tonight, made some solid saves, and we'll let that one go."<br /> <br /> Islanders' coach Scott Gordon admitted that his team's listless play made it easy for the Habs' to dominate:<br /> <br /> "We were a pretty easy team to play against. Defensively we were on our heels because of all our turnovers and it wasn't just in one area, it was coming out of our zone, it was situations where we had full control of the puck and we're not making plays. It's probably the worst that I've ever seen it tonight and it's something that we've got to get better at."<br /> <br /> Montreal plays their next two games at home, hosting the New York Rangers on Saturday night and welcoming the Islanders back to the Bell Centre for another game next Monday night. They'll then head to Pittsburgh for a game against the defending Stanley Cup Champion Penguins on Wednesday. The Islanders have a Saturday night home game against the Washington Capitals before their return engagement with Montreal. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>Ross Everett is a staff oddsmaker for Sports-1 Sportsbook as well as a freelance writer specializing in MMA, boxing and how to <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com/sports/football-betting/nfl.php">bet on NFL</a> football. He is a respected authority on <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com">Internet sports betting</a>, fine dining and fencing. He lives in Las Vegas, Nevada with three Jack Russell Terriers and a pet wallaby. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-29730936424644941302009-10-12T11:59:00.000-07:002009-10-12T13:17:43.416-07:00Windy City Hockey Icon Stan Mikita<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Ross Everett</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>While NHL hockey players from the country formerly known as Czechoslovakia"as well as other Eastern European nations"are commonplace today, Chicago Blackhawks great Stan Mikita was something of a pioneer. Other players with a flashier game such as Bobby Hull became better known, but you can make a compelling case that Mikita was the best center iceman in professional hockey during the 1960s. Mikita was born in Sokolce, in what is now known as Slovakia. He was sent by his family to the Toronto, Ontario area as a young boy to avoid the political strife in the area prior to World War II. An aunt and uncle adopted him, and he changed his name from his birth name of Stanislav Guoth adopting their last name of Mikita. Like most young Canadian boys, he started playing hockey and quickly proved to have an impressive aptitude for the national sport.<br /> <br /> As a teenager, Mikita starred for the St. Catherine Teepees of the junior league Ontario Hockey Association. In 1959, he made the jump to the NHL for good joining the Chicago Blackhawks. He played sparingly in his first partial season in the NHL, but quickly became an important part of the Chicago offense in his first and second full seasons as a pro. In 1961, he led the team in playoff scoring as they won the Stanley Cup"his only championship during his career and the last time the franchise would win the NHLs highest team honor.<br /> <br /> The following year was when Mikita really began to make a mark in professional hockey. Centering the dangerous Scooter Line with Ken Wharram on the right wing and Ab McDonald or Doug Mohns on the left wing, he became one of the most feared offensive scorers and playmakers in the league. While he played in the media shadow of Bobby Hull, Mikita was considered by most hockey cognoscenti to be the real offensive catalyst of the team.<br /> <br /> Mikitas influence wasnt limited to offensive output"he was a feared defensive player and considered one of the best faceoff men in the game. He also brought about one of the most significant innovations in NHL history, being the first to play with a curved stick blade. This was a very radical modification at the time, but was quickly copied throughout the league to the point where today a player that *doesnt* play with a curved stick is considered something of an anachronism.<br /> <br /> Early in his career, Mikita played a tough, rugged style of hockey that made him one of the most penalized players in the game. In the mid 1960s, however, he began to play a much cleaner and more sportsmanlike style that would earn him the Lady Byng Trophy for most gentlemanly player twice. The story goes that he had a change of heart when his young daughter asked why he spent so much time sitting in the box on televised games.<br /> <br /> In addition to his Stanley Cup victory, Mikitas career accomplishments rank among the most impressive in the history of the sport. He won the Art Ross Trophy as the NHLs leading scorer four times (1964, 1965, 1967, 1968), the Hart Memorial Trophy for Most Valuable Player twice (1967 and 1968) and the Lady Byng Trophy in 1967 and 1968. He remains the only player in NHL history to win the Ross, Hart and Byng trophies in the same season (1967).<br /> <br /> Mikita suffered from back injuries in his last years as an active player, finally retiring in 1980. He played his entire career for the Chicago Blackhawks, and was voted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983. He became something of a trivia answer for a younger generation when a donut shop called 'Stan Mikita's Donuts' was featured in the popular movie 'Wayne'w World'. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>Ross Everett is a widely published writer and a noted authority on sports betting and <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com/sports/football-betting/nfl.php">NFL point spreads</a>. He is a frequent sports radio guest where he gives advice on how to successfully <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com/sports/football-betting/nfl.php">bet on football</a>. He lives in Las Vegas with three dogs and a bunny. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-46020050044907418092009-10-11T14:02:00.000-07:002009-10-11T16:11:52.752-07:00Bobby Hull: The Golden Jet<div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawbyline'>By Ross Everett</div><br /><div class='uawarticle'>Bobby Hull"nicknamed The Golden Jet for his blond hair and his style of play"was the most feared goal scorer of the 60s and 70s and along with teammate Stan Mikita made the Chicago Blackhawks one of the NHLs true offensive juggernauts. He and Mikita were the first NHL players to use curved stick blades, which made his already wicked slapshot even more difficult to stop.<br /> <br /> Hull was born and raised on a dairy farm near Belleville, Ontario. As a teenager it was obvious that he was on a fast track to NHL stardom, and he joined the Chicago Blackhawks not long after his 18th birthday. He would finish second in the leagues rookie of the year balloting in his first season and within a couple of years would become one of the NHLs marquee superstars. In 1961, he played an important role in the Blackhawks' Stanley Cup championship victory.<br /> <br /> In 1966, Hull broke a hallowed NHL scoring mark by becoming the first player to net more than 50 goals in a season. His 51st goal broke the record of 50 goals held by Montreal Canadien greats Bernie Boom Boom Geoffrion and Maurice Rocket Richard. Hull would go on to score 54 goals in the 1966 and would surpass that mark by scoring 58 in 1968. These numbers arent surprising in light of his slapshots deadly speed and accuracy"Hulls shot was once clocked at a mind boggling 118 MPH!<br /> <br /> Hulls tenure with the Chicago Blackhawks ended in 1972, when he jumped to the upstart World Hockey Association (WHA). Hull signed for an at the time unprecedented $1,000,000 signing bonus. Initially, Hulls response that he would jump ship for a million bucks was an offhanded joke but when the WHA ownership agreed to contribute to that sum thinking that it would provide instant credibility for the league it became a reality.<br /> <br /> In the WHA, Hull was quickly back to his old tricks. On a line with Swedish superstars Ulf Nilsson and Anders Hedberg called The Hot Line, he led the Jets to two league championship AVCO Cup victories. In 1977, he set a new professional hockey record with 77 goals in a season which surpassed Phil Espositos 1970-71 mark of 76 by a single goal.<br /> <br /> Hull suffered from knee trouble throughout his career and was off the ice more than on it during the WHAs final season of 1979-80. After appearing in a handful of games for the Jets, he was shipped to the Hartford Whalers for future considerations. He would play in a few games for the Whalers before calling it a career. With the exception of an abortive comeback attempt with the New York Rangers in 1981 that was the end of his professional hockey career.<br /> <br /> Hull's legacy lived on in flesh and blood with his third son, Brett Hull. The Hulls are the only father/son combination to ever score 50 goals in an NHL season and Brett will follow his father into the Hall of Fame this year.<br /> <br /> Hull is now 70 years old and splits his time between the Toronto area and Chicago where he serves as a PR ambassador for the Blackhawks organization. He is expected to formally induct his son into the Hall of Fame at the ceremonies later this summer. - 31496</div><div class='uawresource'><div style='font-style:italic;' class='uawabout'><br /> About the Author:<br /> </div><div class='uawlinks'>Ross Everett is a consulting handicapper for Sports-1 and an authority on thoroughbred horse racing and <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com"> internet sports betting</a> . He's a published expert on handicapping theory, as well as financial investment strategy. He contributes to a number of websites providing insight on how to <a target='_blank' href="http://www.sports-1.com">bet on NFL football</a>, hockey and mixed martial arts. </div><br /> </div>stevesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00490148348476861571noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-133452399001307885.post-827527756974828182009-09-30T18:28:00.002-07:002009-09-30T18:29:24.386-07:00privacy policyPrivacy Policy<br /><br />The privacy of our visitors to this website is important to us.<br />At this website, we recognize that privacy of your personal information is important. Here is information on what types of personal information we receive and collect when you use and visit this website, and how we safeguard your information. We never sell your personal information to third parties.<br /><br />Log Files<br />As with most other websites, we collect and use the data contained in log files. 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