Hopper

I have to say that mksioux makes a lot of sense. I'm hoping the team isn't sinking, but they haven't been exactly 'stellar' as of late!!! I too know that D. Hale makes a presence on the ice, but look back to MTU. With a score of 8-zilch the first night, and a loss on the second, one has to hope that Blais has a dusty bag of tricks somewhere in his locker! I'm looking for the Sioux to learn from their mistakes, but I'm hoping that this will happen soon! My hat's off to Ranfranz on a good showing. From the way Hennesey sounded, he didn't get a bead on the shot, and it is just one of those unfortunate bounces!

Good statement Hrkac..whoever you are. I don't bash goalies, but at some point, a goalie has to do something special....and so far, shutouts included, I haven't personally seen that BOOM in the action! It may be yet to come.....FINGERS CROSSSED!

Sorry I wasn't more clear. I am a Sioux fan only! I am telling you that the Sioux will be the top seed wherever they go, stats backing us or not, because the season isn't over. Yes, I'm glad your Gophers won against CC, only because it helped our Fighter's. But as far as your #1 & #2, let me put your thoughts into perspective for you. "#1", The sioux are not CC, and the "Gophs" as you so unproudly state their name are lucky. Sub#1 I've never heard "Gophs" and this is not their name. You should be happy that our Fighting Sioux struggled against MTU, only because your team got more of a chance as our team learned what true winners are made of. Plus, you might want to revise your #2. "#2", You may want to look at our Fighting Sioux's record on the road...... Hmm, let's see, Boy, I think they've done better than one may think! Now, your hopes for the Gophers, not "Gophs", to meet the Fighting Sioux in Buffalo only shows ignorance. Look, the Sioux have been vulnerable in the past.....only on a few occasions......but here in North Dakota, we learn from our mistakes/experiences. So, I'd put anyone against our boys, Buffalo or Anywhere, and I think you'd get the same result. I'm not tough because I'm on screen, but I do have a strong opinion! I really think the Gophers are a good team. However, I don't sit on the fence year-to-year. I am genuinely proud of Jordan Leopold....and only because he comes from my neighboring state. So, because I am ONLY a Sioux fan, don't hate me. We all have to have our strong emotions about something....and I have many....But I will follow Sioux hockey until I die. In fact, I'm glad you have STRONG opinion about the Gophers. But, I think the folllowers of all other teams are hoping that the MTU victory is "classic" of the future of Sioux Hockey for 2003. I'm just making the let-down for the Frozen-Four a little easier for everyone. In fact, Congratulations on last years accomplishments...I have the memorabilia...but this is a new year.....and with the talent in D-1, we all have to accept the facts. With a total package, the Sioux can withstand everything, and currently, we are lacking in a few areas, but I wouldn't count us out in Buffalo....or before. I have to

I know a goalie as well. He was in the running at the time of Kvalevog.....and played with Karl on the Ice Sharks.....let me know if you need him! He was MVP in ND in like 95....and his brother will be playing defense for the Sioux next year! Keep me posted!

Just a sidenote I forgot, he made 32 saves to chalk up a shutout against a great EGF team. And, as I put as an ICON on this topic.....keep and eye on this kid....and see which D-1 team he ends up playing for!!! Don't count him out for the Sioux, he just needs a little more exposure. I think/feel that he'd do well by this team. I spoke with many other spectator's at the game (many from EGF), and all agreed that this kid is outside the ordinary when it comes to goalies! Give me your thoughts! Do we need him.....or are we (as fans/followers happy)????

Nick Noah is a goalie currently playing for Crookston High School. I have watched a lot of High School goalies, and I have to say on this unbiased website, this is the fastest kid I have ever seen. I watched him play against EGF last week. I have to admit, a few of his saves could have been considered pure luck. However, I still quote Ralph, "The harder I work, the luckier I get", and this kid workd HARD!!! He is lightning fast, and has the positioning of an all-star player. I understand that he is young, is on a losing team, but PLEASE, check out this kid's stats. He has a .923 save percentage and under 2.40 goals against.......(I say this with apprehension to be wrong....I think its 2.34??). He is a stellar performer on a team that is struggling. I think the team record this year is 4-12-? (unsure of ties). I think that with a few years in the USHL, this kid could carry a team like we have this year to an undefeated season....I say this with confidence. Someone look at his stats, and let me know your thoughts about him. I'm throwing this out there blindly, and I'm not saying anything about the current dispute about goalies. However, when there is constant static among fans about something (goaltending), obviously there's a problem.....somewhere. So, maybe we, as fans, can look forward and raise some interest in a truly deserving cadidate for a college career/education that all will follow. This kid is good, and I have to say, of all the goalies I have watched at the HS level, including Lane Sedevie and Jake Moreland (St. Cloud), this kid has the speed of a bullet. He gets out of position, but if you blink, you wouldn't know it. I'm not saying he's a flopper, but with the team he has to work with, he has to take some chances.....which puts him out of the net from time to time.....but getting back is not a problem for this kid. He is FAST, and should be given a serious look. I have heard that the goalie roster is filled for the next few recruiting sessions, but this kid IS going somewhere, and maybe someone should tap Mr. Blais on the shoulder and put the bug in his ear. Someone let me know (after looking at his stats) what you think!

I'm in...if you want a few goals scored for the washed up would-like-to-have-been-good-enough-for-the-Sioux-team players. I'm guaranteed for at least one goal and a +1 rating...especially against Gopher fans. Let me know via this website if you want me to contribute......and contribute I will! Hockey we will, Hockey we can, God forbid to be a Gopher fan!

I think after the skating they did today, their best "chance" will come anywhere. I'd have to say I believe they have learned what it's like to take one in the shorts. I think with sagard's comments, we can tell that he is not a real Sioux fan, but more of a "the glass is half-empty" type of fan. However, I think the Sioux will pick it up in the home stretch and finish the season out strong. My feelings were stung a little on the loss to MTU as well, but I'm not counting on the Gophers to determine our fate. I think we should all pull together and have a little Faith in our boys. So, let me stress again, that I do have Faith in our Fighting Sioux, and that their best chance will come ANYWHERE!!!! In fact, I don't like the word chance at all....not even in MONOPOLY !

To reply to skateshattrick, I can only say this. If I were a friend to Jeff, I would tell him everything that I have written on this website. I would love to see him keep his job and keep giving us play-by-play, but to do it in a way that has a little more home-team enthusiasm. I think he DOES have a great knowledge of the game. Yes, I made a comment about his career at UND and the lack of points, but I have seen many come and go that make a HUGE influence on the ice that don't tally the points....Unsung heroes, if you will(I didn't follow Jeff's era well enough, I feel sorry for that now!!!). However, I just like to listen/watch the game hearing the good things our boys are doing....have done.....will do....can contribute to the game. I believe that on a losing night, in a losing series, with my VERY limited knowledge of what it takes to announce a game, I could say more positive things and keep an audience more attuned to my voice/opinions of the game than Jeff is currently doing. I admit, the guy has a lot of good qualities, a lot, but at some point the whole ideal of "HOMER-ISM" HAS to kick in. Sure, Pat Sweeney does a good job of being fair, but he's an Icon in North Dakota. I guess it's a little easier for ME to pick out Jeff's weaker points. I'll tell ya what, skateshattrick, I will take a closer note to what Pat has to say, and see your perspective. I'm guessing that his mentoring style has a lot to do with Jeff's comments, but I also can hear by Pat's voice (on occasion), that Jeff jumps to the other side a little too much at times. Pat has taken a moment of silence on a few occasions when Jeff makes a sly comment giving gratuity to out opponent, and then almost back tracks in the meantime. Maybe this is Pat's way of making it a one-man show. I will give you the merit to follow both announcer's more closely. I feel that these comments will show my fairness to Jeff, and I feel that I owe it to him since I started this topic. That's all I have for now!

I believe that the Sioux played an average game, but Michigan Tech. came to play some serious defensive hockey. The Sioux need to quit playing down to their opponent's level, and start getting some consistency at this point in the season. Each point from here on through the end of the season MATTER. With the talent this team has individually, it's surprising that they have any 1 goal squeakers at all. They should be dominating, blowing teams away, but something in the equation isn't there....and I believe it's inner-drive consistency. I watched the game on TV tonight, and what I saw was MTU playing very defensively, not giving up many "great" opportunities for the Sioux to score, and a different tender in the net at each end. The passing didn't look great for the Sioux, but I think MTU's defense had a lot to do with that. However, I don't think anyone should bash Siembeda, because it was a team loss and Blais was "candid" about that after the game. Hennesey's interview, as quoted above, showed a Blais that was frustrated in his team. I think that the goals that got by were stoppable, but put yourself in Josh's shoes this game, and I think the shots would have looked a lot tougher than we (as fans) saw. I agree, a couple of them were weak, but I think he was depending on the same defense to show up for this game than were at Friday's game. As everyone will say, he's no Goehring, but he had a tough game tonight. I just feel that some of what I said has a little merit, and thought that someone should say it.

Can't judge the merit of the comment, but last night when Hennan was interviewing Zach after the game, Zach made the comment that he loves playing at the Ralph, and that he can't wait to play the next "5 or 6" games there this season. He went on to say that he is already looking forward to playing there next year, and Hennan made a joking comment, something to the effect of "and the year after that, and the year after that", to which Zach smiled back at him. So, I think he may have said that he'll be back for sure next year.....did anyone else see this interview??? I for one, am hoping that he'll hang around for the full 4. I love watching him play, and when he's playing like this already at this level, why not dominate all 4 years. Last I heard, the NHL wasn't going anywhere, and will be an option for Zach later in his career.

Having a son that is a goalie, and watching a goalie's every move, I think Josh deserved the game (shutout) he played/got tonight! As I mentioned to my son during the game, and I hope I don't have to retract, I think tonight is exactly what Josh needed. I say this because I noticed that he was in the net tonight, and not sprawled out all over the white....when he should have been in the blue! There were a few times when he played too far out of the net, but if he has any tending skills, he will realize that he played well in the crease! A few of the saves tonight resembled the play of Osgood. I'm smart enough not to put him in that caliber, but I have watched a lot of goalie's....mainly on TV when you get to Osgood/Roy caliber. However, I see good things in Josh, but he needs to realize that out of every 500 goalies, he's one of the luckiest guys in the States! Not many get to play at this level....in face VERY few do! But, I think with his tally of an assist and a shutout with the 10-12 standout saves, the 2 or 3 lucky ones where he was out of position will be the ones that stick out.....and they will happen less often. I'm putting a lot of stock in this kid with my comments, but if he has a passion for the game, it's in his court now! I'm SO hoping that Blais will start him again on Saturday. I want to go further here though.....I'm also hoping he will stay in position and make people see what he is capable of in this game. We all have it, and I truly think Josh does, but it's all up to him! Now, I want to go a step further! I am hoping that he (and I know you will all hate me unless you see where I'm going here) will have a game where the team is in a slump, and he pulls some heroic saves out of his bag of tricks. After the struggle he had last season, and I'm adding all the factors in the equation, I think he needs to find the confidence within, and capitalize on it. Now, I also realize I'm putting all my chips on one longshot.....but it doesn't have to be that way. I really believe in Josh....although he has been less-than impressive so far this season.....and I think that if he gains the confidence from within, he can lead us (as fans) to a National Championship. He has the basics, but as I told my son, anyone can put a set of pad's on a fish and watch him flop around....and sad as it may seem....you're not gonna keep an audience with an act like that! Am I right??

Okay, I will eat crow tonight.....but not the whole bird! I have to say, Jeff had a little fairness in his 'tone' as the game progressed. I have to confess, I actually listened to the game to give him another chance. I have listened to Hennesey the last few games, just for a change of attitude.....mine, no one else's. I wanted to see if I could distinguish between my perspective of the game, and the announcer's comments during the action. Well, I have to say that Hennesey pounds the he-double hockey stick out of Bredahl, but he did a good job on Friday night......in my opinion! He had his moments, where I wanted my son to turn the volume down and turn the radio on, but I fought off the temptation to see what I could learn about myself. I have to say he did better, but he has along way to go to tickle my fancy. I'm no hockey star, but I enjoy the game with if the commentator shares my views///or goes completely against them (thanks Woog). But, I am trying to give Jeff another chance, and I think he is coming around........I think he reads this forum and has a handle that none of us knows. I know you have read this Jeff, because the majority rules, and you have seen that we are onto you! From now on, understand that your viewer's are primarily interested in hearing the finer points of OUR boys......not the luckiness they have.....and the great things the opposing forces have to offer! After all, who that watches our FIGHTING SIOUX really cares that Peter Sejna or Grant Putolny can handle the puck.....I think we'd all rather the fact that THEY get lucky once in a while as well................ After all....we come from UND, and as RALPH always said, and I quote......" THE HARDER I WORK THE LUCKIER I GET"......Jeff, think about this in the future....as you did on Friday night! I have eaten as much crow as I can for the weekend. However, I'm hoping that the fairness continues!

I'm re-opening this topic so that all of you doubter's can listen to the lack of "home team spirit" we receive this weekend. We will continually hear how lucky we (The Sioux) are, and how talented and precison-based each play is made by the CC team. We will also hear how good Peter Sejna is, and how Zach Parise is "always in the right spot", as though it were a stroke of luck! Just listen to the underlying message....and I think a lot of you doubting Tom's will see at least a mere hint of where I'm coming from! I'd venture to say it will be more than a mere hint though.......Let me know what you think......and I will reply with any improvements this fan has to acknowledge!

Tie on Friday....Sioux by 2 on Saturday! Look out CC....you ain't seen nothin' yet!!!!

dickgraham......"O'keefe gave up his banking job in Fargo to take a position with the UND Alumni or Foundation office. When he took the job he made the comment that the demands of the job would not allow him time to do the color commentary for the Sioux hockey games, although he has done a couple of games this year. By the way, even though Bredahl may not be the most exciting commentator to listen to, he knows alot about the game and if you actually listen to him you will actually learn quite a bit about strategy and positioning. " Just want to comment to dickgraham. I do agree that he may know something about hockey, but the way it comes across is not taken well by most viewers. He seems to down-play the Sioux team's effort in the process. So, as far as exciting...never questioned this part of his broadcast...I do, however, have to wonder why things come across as they do. I feel firmly about the fact that he should listen to one of his broadcasts and see if maybe there isn't a way to acknowledge the efforts of the home team a little better than he is currently. I bet if this were a "viewer only" sight, there would be more than just my post on this topic.

I'll be honest. I haven't read all of the replies on this topic, but as far as position-goaltending, he is the man on this years team. He doesn't flop down, nor does he fly off to one side of the net or the other. He is a solid performer, and I don't think they have opened the 4 barrels on this hot rod to this point of his career. I'm not saying that he is the one to save the team, but I will ensure you of this, he will be there when he is supposed to be. He is a great (walk-on) back-up goalie, and from what I know of him, he will be happier than punch to find himself in the net just as he has been in recent past.....enough time to pull out the heroic tie/win/glove save/heart-stopper! I think this kid has college tending potential, and I hope to see him just where he is....in the net when no one else can pull it off!

Keep in mind that I have (in the past) only read this site. In fact, I have only replied to a few of the topics on this site. I want you to also keep in mind that I have read a lot of new topics that I want to comment on, but hold back to see how they play out on their own. However, this is just something I want to throw out there.....for anyone else that sees this topic as I do. For those that do not, feel free to set me wrong...I also realize that no one is perfect! Here's what I want to know. All of the people that I have talked to about the TV coverage of Sioux hockey tell me, and it is my opinion also, that coverage would be better if Jeff Bredahl would take a leave of absence. He makes the UND Sioux hockey team sound lucky when something good happens to or for them. However, he makes each opponent sound like the Crem-de-le-Crem of hockey. I, personally, have watched all of the home games (either at the Ralph or on the couch) and have noticed that even if the team makes a drastic mistake in person, it looks better than if they have scored a winning goal when Jeff explains the replay on TV. He seems to have a negative outlook on the Sioux team....let me rephrase...he doesn't give credit to the Sioux hockey team when they make an earth-shattering play, but rather criticizes them even when they score or make a good play. Let me go further! He downplays almost every Sioux accomplishment, but goes on to say that it was a fluke (in his own terms) when the Sioux make an "earth-shattering play. However, no matter how bad it looks, when the other team scores or makes a play that would normally be "expected of D-1 players", he makes it sound (on TV) that the whole (opposing team) is worthy of the Hobey Baker Award.......including the coach! For a guy who scored 1 goal and had 4 assists (Career at UND), he sure knows a lot about coaching, reffing and playing. He seems to have an opinion about everything, but I'm sure someone out there could be more partial to the home team if his demeanor doesn't change. I'm not saying he should go, but rather that he should watch the game, remember what team he played for and is supposedly supporting, and then renew his stance at the microphone at the Ralph. After all, he IS representing one heck or a tradition....and I might add.....ONE HECK OF A HOCKEY TEAM. To me, for a local broadcaster......His interpretations of Sioux hockey and views of the game on home ice are interpreted badly on this end! Please....and don't hold back if you are a viewer....let me know what you think!!!! I know we can't all hold season tickets....but we can at least turn down the TV volume and listen to 96.1 while enjoying the essence of a great team who may very well be headed to a National Championship if this blasphemy isn't ended!!!! If you read this personally Jeff, I think you could do well by this team, but at least watch a tape of one of the games you have been a part of, and listen to how it would sound to a group of hardcore Sioux fans hoping to hear nothing but good about our boys!!!!

Goon, I think it will be a great season! I think the Sioux will have a better season than last year. I have been to quite a few of their scrimmages this year, and it looks like a team that can pass and play well positioned hockey. If the defense can crash the boards and we have solid goaltending, I know the forwards will put the puck in the net. Let's hope for a consistent season.....a winning season!

gosioux, I have only seen Dahlen play a few times while with Sioux City, but the games that I was at he played an intense game. I see that you know more about his situation than most that have posted, so tell me more about him. Why was he in rehab for 5 months, and how much hockey did he miss that year? Also, I see that scottm called you a princess...is this an inside joke or am I missing something here. I'm new to this forum, but have been reading it for years. I only know a few of the Sioux players personally, but was interested to see the name "Dahlen". This is a name familiar to me, because I follow the juniors, and had seen that he was doing well with the Muskateers. It's going to be interesting to see what this guy can add to the 03 season!!

I don't know that comparison is the approach I was taking when speaking of Gretzky.

I agree with Goon! I Have seen Dahlen play, and I have to tell you, he plays a good game of hockey! I don't remember Wayne Gretzky spending many minutes in the penalty box, but then again I don't remember Gretsky playing on a team like the current LSSU team. I think given the chance, Dahlen will be a successful D-man and a great addition to the Sioux team. I don't remember him ever crouching in a corner, but playing smart, heads-up hockey I have seen him do. I think we can all agree that we can only do so much with what we've got, and in my opinion, this was the case at LSSU. I believe with a little more to work with, this kid will be a definite asset to UND!