Hits From The Blog, Part Deux

It's been awhile since I've been lazy enough to do this, so I've got some good crazy stuff saved up. There are some twisted people out there, coming to RWD. And writing it.

Somewhat Hockey-Related
mike zacharias budweiser i take it he's a big fan.
t.j. oshie beer bong people, get it right. that was jonathan toews.
greer Macgregor is this some sort of science experiment gone wrong?
euthanasia, nick kemp is that really necessary? can't we just put him out to stud?
the drunk hockey guy blog umd doesn't exist yet. you're stuck with rwd.
don lucia complaining imagine that!
bulldog with fire helmet more like fire helmet with bulldog.

Hockey Player Stalker Hits
drew akins is cute probably a meanegirl hit.
is mike sertich of duluth minnesota married wow, even sertie gets stalked!
rob bordson is so hot yes.
uaa nathan lawson girlfriend i hope she's combing the beaches, because he is washed up.
josh meyers shirtless yes yes.
bryan mcgregor girlfriend i wonder what he's up to?
stu bickel girlfriend another meanegirl hit.
tyler bozak girlfriend probably dumped him when he got his knee injury.
tony lucia girlfriend ...is jay barriball.
tj oshie apartment on you tube for what? dirtiest apartment ever?
alex goligoski girlfriend ...is ryan potulny.
tyler ruegsegger girlfriend hopefully did not get projectile-vomited on.
glenn fisher girlfriend who? oh wait, that du guy.
jordan parise gf to be fair, the gf could stand for grand forks.
rob nolan girlfriend ...is rwd.
tj oshie girlfriend should probably not view "tj oshie apartment on you tube."
matt smaby engaged someone cares?
jonathan toews shirtless with a beer bong, i hope!

What the...????
when does air bud hockey come out i don't know, but i can't wait!!!
good rat keeping i guess you clean their cage and feed them and stuff.
boosh hot dogs the game yeah, i'm sure that happened.
making of the game banana is the "game banana" some sort of trophy for gorilla footballers?
rat bleeding from ears probably resulted from bad rat keeping.
cowbell penalty two minutes for not enough!
that heartless bitch, thb tech hockey blog?
christmas dogs midget performance i'm assuming this show is in tijuana.
my legs are extremely long does not apply here.
i'm a guy, and i want grow my hair out like jason micheal carrol's, but until then, how should i manage my hair? ask hollywood clark!
your so into hockey and you don't even know it t-shirts i would never wear that grammatically incorrect shirt.
why women don't like hockey because we're too busy making sandwiches and fetching beers.
home improvement brad shirtless in locker room who wants to see the mullet kid shirtless?
outline of bronco for pumpkin carving that seems useful.
rhyme master rwd yo yo yo, peace out homeslice.
where to go in denver if you're single co14ers' house.
why do people cut off deer heads on the side of the road because they are lousy shots.
shopko temple of doom i see someone shares my point of view.
political affiliation ted Kaczynski same as donald's.
dogs that coach people i don't think they exist. i searched.
jack i don't think they are ready for this that's what she said.
real life fights between badger and dogs ask cody danberg for footage.
wow fhg that's what cardinal said.
does jack daniels have turpentine in it? does it matter?
i kissed a goon and i liked it?
what happened in the houghton temple ...stays in the houghton temple.
runnin and quantum theory you've come to the right place!

The Gauntlet: Multimedia Edition

That's right, baby. It's back. Sort of. For the first The Gauntlet of the season, RWD interviewed sometime Bulldog photographer, copy-editor, and mixmaster Larry R.

RWD: So, usually I am better prepared, with planned lines of questioning, but since I'm not out to trap you into admitting something or trying to make you look crazy, I'm not as organized.

Larry: Considering most of the tens [of people reading RWD…] already think I'm nuts, feel free to fire away.

RWD: Tens of people may be exaggerating.

Larry: Well I know I read it, not with any dedication, but I've been there multiple times. [Oooh! That means elevens of readers!]

RWD: Superb! That makes me very happy. Perhaps you could start out by informing my readers who don't know you exactly how you are involved with the UMD hockey program.

Larry: Now my involvement is as a volunteer. I'm available to them as needed for whatever type [of] help they need: stats, photography and operations director for game nights. Back in 1997, I was involved in setting up their music system, and brought full time planned music to games. I did that for 5 years, and now it’s more of a support role. [Isn't Larry the genius behind "Don't Stop Believin'," which has been ripped off by everyone from other sports teams to tSopranos?]

RWD: How long have you been a Bulldogs fan?

Larry: I'm really aging myself, but I've been a fan since 1983. I became a Dogs fan when Mom said I couldn't go to Madison to go to college because it was too big, so I traded Cardinal Red and White in for Maroon and Gold.

RWD: The best choice you've ever made.

Larry: Without a doubt, the friends I've made with my involvement at UMD are priceless. [For buying additional friends, there's MasterCard.]

RWD: Were you a college hockey fan in college?

Larry: I was a freshman in 1985. I waited outside (it was a true camp out back then) the Thursday night before the Monday tickets went on sale. I failed my first collegiate exam because I was out drinking when I should have been studying for a [microeconomics] exam. I was a season ticket holder for four years, and my last year, I worked for the Sports Info Office, so I didn't need a ticket.

RWD: So that's a yes.

Larry: Definitely. I think I missed a total of 6 home games in 5 years.

RWD: 5 years is a bit accelerated compared to some current tUMD fans. [RWD included!]

Larry: I was ready to go. 1987-1990 weren't the best hockey years. Seriously, I love Dale Jago, but top scorer?

RWD: I'll just note that here... *man-love for Dale Jago*

Larry: I'm sure his wife will appreciate that.

RWD: Are the college years a bit of a blur for you, or do you have some outstanding memories of Great Moments in Bulldog History?

Larry: I don't have my media guide within reach to cheat, so I'm all on my own. It started so strong with Hull. Just to watch him skate was amazing. I remember a shot that he took from the blue line that hit behind the top rows at the top of the DECC and bounced back to where the Zamboni comes out. It might have broken the safety net; it was that hard. After that, you know the team trended down, so it wasn't a great set of years to be there. We had some fun, I traveled a lot to the away games, but there were certainly more nights drinking over losses than partying over winning… It was different back then, the team had house parties and they lived at the Warehouse, so it was never a boring time.

RWD: Team house parties! Sounds exciting! [It must have been much easier to be a stalker back then.] Where was this "Warehouse" located?

Larry: One of the many Park Point Hotels is now occupying its place. It was right next to the Burger King that used to be on Park Point. It was "THE" college bar during the time I was in school. Grandma's was for the upscale kids and where girls went because they didn't want to get spilled on. Everyone else was at the Warehouse.

RWD: I would definitely be at the Warehouse. [Getting Old Milwaukee dumped on me and getting confused for a guy, obvs.]

Larry: You would have been right at home there. It was definitely a tPB type of place.

RWD: Would you say there was more interest in Bulldog hockey back then (both in the community and among students), or less?

Larry: I think it has followed the same course it does today. 1984-86 there would be people scalping tickets outside, much like the end of 2004 and to some extent 2005. But when the team isn't winning, the interest goes down. My first senior year, nobody waited in line for student season tickets.

RWD: It goes in cycles, I suppose. It would be nice if those winning cycles were longer.

Larry: I think that everyone wishes that. I'd be happy to finish in the top 5 every year. In this league that is all you can ask for.

RWD: So after college, did you stay in Duluth or double-cross it back to Wisconsin?

Larry: I left for 6 years, moved a lot working for a company in Wisconsin, but they opened an office in Duluth and I moved back [for awhile].

RWD: Do you still cheer for Bucky, or have you seen the light?

Larry: I [currently] live about 90 minutes from Madison, and so I still cheer for them when they don't play the Dogs, but you won't see me in any Wisconsin hockey gear anytime soon. I'm a huge Badger Football and Basketball fan. But part of that comes from the fact there is absolutely no way you will every see me with an M on shirt.

RWD: So you save your real hatred for UMTC.

Larry: I have absolutely no love for their program at all.

RWD: Back when you were in college, who were some of your favorites (other than your bf Dale)?

Larry: Hull, of course, but I was more a fan of the working class guys. Joe DeLisle will probably be one of my all time favorite players.

RWD: When did you start doing photography for the games?

Larry: I traveled with the team in 2004 to Boston, and I had my camera there. In 2005, I got a call from Jess Myers (who was working for Inside College Hockey) asking if I could shoot a game, and I've been covering for them ever since.

RWD: Who do/did you enjoy photographing the most?

Larry: I like shooting goaltenders [I agree, I sometimes feel like shooting goaltenders, too.]; they provide the best action shots. Alex is a lot of fun to shoot because he is so mobile. Elliott from Wisconsin always seemed to come up big, and Lamoureux from North Dakota provided a great shot that ended up being a save that was ESPN's play of the day during the Frozen Four. I have that as a poster that I'm waiting to get signed. [Larry = the ultimate Fan Boy.]

RWD: Are most of the photos from the Bulldogs' site your own?

Larry: The school has an official photographer, so most are his. I try to schedule my trips home when he isn't there so I can get something up on the web.

RWD: Do you ever do photos for the DNT?

Larry: I do some freelance for them; I do some work when they don't have coverage and I'm in town or if they are on the road, I'll send pictures up.

RWD: You would think they would have a staff photographer just for the Bulldogs.

Larry: Their sports department is pretty small and they have a huge area to cover. Budgets just don't allow them to keep someone like that on staff.

RWD: I just laughed. What exactly are they covering that's more important than the Bulldogs? Smelt fishing? [No offense, DA and Gramps.]

Larry: I'm sure they spend a great deal of time covering things like the DHW [Drunk Hockey Walk] [Brilliant! I couldn't think of a better use of resources. Except that nothing I do on the DHW is anything I'd want documented for the public domain]. That goes in cycles too. When they win, they get more coverage. When I was in Boston, they had 3 people out there, so keep winning is the rule to better coverage. That’s why the women’s team gets its fair share.

RWD: Oh man, you touched on the hot button issue. [Bracing for impact.]

Larry: I am usually on the wrong side of that issue.

RWD: I don't have an issue with women's hockey, other than no checking. Who would you say are some of your current favorite Bulldogs? Or are you going to Ciskie-out and say all of them?

Larry: Nah. I don't have to deal with them on a daily basis or need them to keep a talk show running. Do I get bonus points for Mr. Curry? Jason Garrison is one of them, I was a big Bryan McGregor fan (they'll miss him) and I like Alex because he is so unpredictable.

RWD: Well, don't lie. If you don't like Curry, don't say you do to suck up to me. Not that anyone could NOT like him.

Larry: Not knowing what you like about him aside, he is a great presence on the ice, and I like how he works. And if he ever gets paired up in the penalty box, you can learn a lot why he gets under peoples skin.

RWD: I'm a fan of that. Everything he does it seems is designed to irritate someone.

Larry: He’s a lot like Stauffacher, except bigger. [Um, like a whole freaking foot bigger.]

RWD: I'm surprised you would find "unpredictability" in a goaltender "likeable." [I'm sure Scott Sandelin thinks it's a laugh riot.]

Larry: That’s the photographer talking. My dad would like him to be more predictable.

RWD: How about your all-time Bulldog favorites?

Larry: Hull, Podein, DeLisle, Plante, Lessard (love the accent).

RWD: What do you think about Junior's professional situation?

Larry: He has enough talent to play in the league. I'm not an expert on NHL clubs and their needs, but he could be an every day player for someone.

RWD: Evidently no one felt that way, as he cleared waivers and will be in the AHL. [With the extremely sexy Chris Conner.]

Larry: Hopefully he'll end up in Milwaukee and I can go see him play. I'll drop $12 a night to go watch him skate.

RWD: If you were the coach of the Bulldogs, what would you do differently?

Larry: Not that Scott needs my help, but I'd really like to see two things: get someone who isn't afraid to crash the offensive zone with the puck, and I'd really like to see them try something different with the power play. [NO FREAKING KIDDING. Maybe they need to try a little more cowbell.]

RWD: That was a nice roundabout way of seeing where you stand on the coaching issue.

Larry: He has a tough job, and I imagine there is some real pressure on him to win. I think losing Nisky is the big loss, my understanding that while UMD may miss the scoring touch, they'll be better off as a team without Raymond.

RWD: Wow, can I print that without being sued for libel?

[some stuff]

RWD: Most Bulldogs fans have two outlooks to the season: what they hope will happen, and what they believe will happen. The two rarely align. What are your predictions and hopes?

Larry: As a lifelong Packer fan, I know how that goes. I think they finish 5th, and end up making it to the WCHAs. I always hope they make a run, because it makes the post season more fun when you have somebody to cheer for at the rink.

RWD: So you think, realistically, they are going to be 5th in tWCHA? [As you can probably tell, I'm still trying to wrap my mind around this.]

Larry: I think they have a shot at it. Alex is going to have to carry the team, and he does have the talent. If the team gets off to a good start, they have the ability to catch people. If the team comes out as a team, they'll be able to string some wins together, and that will give them the confidence they need to be successful. But then, I was always the [delusional] optimistic guy.

RWD: To wrap things up, as this could go on all night, I'll open it up to any comments you want to make about Bulldog hockey.

Larry: I think the Dogs will surprise some people this year. I'm excited for the year, The Superior Cup with some teams that used to be good rivals, and a league that is always stacked with talent. If they get some league wins early they can position themselves for a playoff run. Unfortunately, the schedule at the end of the year is a big test. But that’s when you'll see what character they have.

RWD: Any bold predictions, or "calls" as Bert Blyleven says?

Larry: Wisconsin wins the league in a runaway. The three first round picks that they have make them a force to be dealt with right away. That being said, they probably finish 4th.

RWD: Whoa, it's not a call unless you believe it's going to happen. No qualifiers. No reneging.

Larry: I believe they have the ability to run away with the league. But, if reality sets in...

RWD: Who's your breakout player of the year for tDogs?

Larry: Put your money on Michael Gergen. [I have none, thanks for reminding me.] I think he has the most to gain from Raymond leaving early. If he steps up and takes the offensive role that they brought him in with, watch out.

RWD: Ooh, he is My Guy, other than Curry. Most Impactful Freshman?

Larry: Evan Oberg. He'll step up and replace Nisky right away. Close second for Cody Danberg if he stays healthy.

RWD: Larry's Personal Player of the Year?

Larry: Andrew Carroll. He provides the leadership and will lead the team in points.

RWD: Well, that's the good word.

I can't believe I friggin' forgot to ask him who the hottest Bulldog was!

The All-WCHA Hottie Teams

The conference tournaments are over, the NCAA regionals are set, and that means only one thing: it's time to give out the most prestigious honors in college hockey. For the third year in a row, Runninwiththedogs presents the All-WCHA Hottie Teams!

Coach: Jamie Russell**
Bloggers: MeanEgirl, Boosh, and The Darkness, of the Tech Hockey Blog

1st team:
F Chris Porter, UND**
F Darcy Zajac, UND
F Tyler Ruegsegger, DU
D Taylor Chorney, UND
D Trent Palm, UMD
G Rob Nolan, MTU*

2nd team:
F Ryan Peckskamp, SCSU
F Michael Forney, UND
F T.J. Oshie, UND*
D Ryan Berry, UAA
D R.J. Linder, MSU-M*
G Nathan Lawson, UAA*

3rd team:
F Bryan McGregor, UMD*
F Chris VandeVelde, UND
F MacGregor Sharp, UMD
D Zach Blom, DU**
D David Carlisle, SCSU
G Glenn Fisher, DU

Freshman team:
F Tyler Ruegsegger, DU
F Darcy Zajac, UND
F Ryan Peckskamp, SCSU
D Trent Palm, UMD
D Drew Dobson, MTU
G Alex Stalock, UMD

*denotes two-time honoree
**denotes three-time honoree

This year was slightly different, in that I consulted others for their input (thanks for all the photos and campaigns!) I agreed, with some advice, disagreed with some, and was totally puzzled by some. I decided to invite fellow fans to make their own lists.

Suze's Picks (UAA)
F Patrick Mullen, DU
F Jay Beagle, UAA
F Chris Porter, UND
D J.P. Testwuide, DU
D Alex Goligoski, UMTC
G Rob Nolan, MTU

Let's Go Mavs's Picks (MSU-M)
F Darcy Zajac, UND
F Braydon Cox, CC
F Ryan Peckskamp, SCSU
D R.J. Linder, MSU-M
D Brian Kilburg, MSU-M
G Rob Nolan, MTU

Catie's Picks (DU)
F Jonathon Toews, UND
F Andrew Gordon, SCSU
F Patrick Mullen, DU
D Andrew Thomas, DU
D Mike Vannelli, UMTC
G Bobby Goepfert, SCSU

Nin's Picks (UW)
F Patrick Mullen, DU
F Matt Tyree, MSU-M
F Michael Gergen, UMD
D R.J. Linder, MSU-M
D Blake Friesen, MSU-M
G Rob Nolan, MTU

MeanEgirl's Picks (MTU)
F Justin Bourne, UAA
F Darcy Zajac, UND
F Brandon Polich, CC
D Casey Borer, SCSU
D David Fischer, UMTC
G Rob Nolan, MTU

WinTwins's Picks (SCSU)
F Brandon Vossberg, DU
F Andrew Gordon, SCSU
F Braydon Cox, CC
D R.J. Linder, MSU-M
D Casey Borer, SCSU
G Rob Nolan, MTU

Melmac's Picks (UMTC)
F Justin Bourne, UAA
F Chris Tarkir, UAA
F Chris VandeVelde, UND
D J.P. Testwuide, DU
D Mike Vannelli, UMTC
G Rob Nolan, MTU

HockeyMom's Picks (UND)
F Chris Porter, UND
F T.J. Oshie, UND
F Tyler Ruegsegger, DU***
D Taylor Chorney, UND***
D Trent Palm, UMD***
G Rob Nolan, MTU***

***denotes athlete filled in by me. HockeyMom voted nine times for Porter and once for T.J. She sucks at counting.

Mr. McGregor's Garden

With pitchfork in hand, Bryan McGregor certainly kicked some butt tonight, getting 2 of the 3 Bulldog goals. Would I have loved it if McGregor had found his scoring touch, oh, say, two seasons ago? Or even last season? Yes. But it isn't too late for Mr. McGregor to lead the charge over the Peter Rabbits of this world. I'm ready for Bryan to pull a Buster Stapleton and lead us to a Final Five.

Time for the stick salute tomorrow night, boyos.

Numbers
Points Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: DONE!
Wins Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: DONE!

My "Guys" Competition:
Matt Niskanen: 29!
Michael Gergen: 15 (Missed a breakaway, booo!)
Mike Curry: 13 (Great chances!)
Matt McKnight: 7
Jason Garrison: 2

Freshmen Competition:
Akins: 10
Fulton: 8
Stalock: 4
Gorsalitz: 2 (Gives new meaning to the term "Crash the Net")
Palm: 1
C. Ryan: 1

(Dear freshmen, get your butts in gear and score.)

On Notice:
Nick Kemp: GD 11 PD 6
Mike Curry: GD 13
Drew Akins: GD 14 PD 4
Trent Palm: GD 21 PD 21
Ryan Geris: GD 31 PD 4
Travis Gawryletz: GD 32
Matt McKnight: GD 9 PD 4
Matt Greer: GD 9 PD 9
Jeff McFarland: GD 8 PD 8
Jay Cascalenda: GD 8 PD 8
Michael Gergen: GD 6
Matt Niskanen: GD 6
Jordan Fulton: GD 6 PD 6
Mason Raymond: GD 4
Josh Meyers: GD 4

Yesterday

I know, it was pretty pathetic of me to cop out last night and only post the Numbers. I know you were all dying to hear about my trip to Duluth to see my beloved Bulldogs, and all I gave you was some simple math. You probably thought, Come on, a chimpanzee could have posted that. But come on, people. You know that chimpanzees are too busy posting on this site to bother with a RWD update.

Do you all remember the scene in Wayne's World where they try to go backstage at Alice Cooper and end up outside talking to Chris Farley about Frankie Sharp's talent search? Chris Farley says (with hand gestures to show an imaginary U.S. map) "Next stop is St. Louis, then he's going to come back through Chicago on his way to Detroit." If you don't remember that, you haven't watched one of the GREATEST MOVIES EVER enough times. But anyway, that was sort of how our trip started out. RWD World Headquarters is located in Plymouth (western suburb). Navigational Guru/Duluth Refugee Kleiner lives in a northeastern suburb about 25 miles away. After I swung by to get NG/DR Kleiner (and oohed and aahed over the very cute, very sweet Babykleiner), we were ready to head out. Or so we thought...

As we were leaving the Kleiner Compound, I received an emergency phone call from former Gauntlet Victim/Closet Bulldog Fan Fire Helmet Guy, needing us to rescue him from the ghettos of the northwest suburbs. So Kleiner and I strapped on our bulletproof vests, loaded our AK-47s, and sped across town. After a near-death experience involving a jerk in an Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme on 694, we made it. Kleiner provided cover fire while FHG sprinted to my car from a nearby bombed-out building. Fortunately, he has lots of practice from the DECC to Sports Garden run.

After a stopover in the far northern suburbs to pick up our tickets from an Anonymous Donor, and then another stop to feed my hungry car, we were finally on our way. FINALLY.

But! The important part isn't the journey, it's the destination. We rolled into Duluth in time to booze it at the Curling Club with some members of tPB. We drank Canadian beer in honor of our Crazy Canuck. Yuck. I think I'll stick to my Leinie's Red from now on.

However, if not for Canadians, we would not have won the game. Biggie Mac scored 2 goals (including a sweet power play goal set up by 2 other Canadians) and Mason Raymond had an empty net goal. Jordan Fulton scored just for FHG, as if he was saying "Okposo who?"

Mike Curry was sadly absent from the scoreboard, but he did get in some guy's face and also told Derek Shepherd what he thought of some call or another. It's really entertaining to see all the little things he does to get under an opponent's skin.

The goals per game average has gone up, since tDogs failed to get the required 7 goals last night. Now they have to score 8 1/2 goals each night in Denver. Totally possible!

All right, that's enough. RWD out.

Hockey Day

Well, today was Hockey Day Minnesota. What did I do? I worked. So I missed the game. Or, more accurately, I missed all of the games, including the Bulldogs' game.

All is not lost. I am going to celebrate by snuggling up on the couch with some Kleenex and watching Miracle. I know, I know, you probably thought I didn't have a heart at all, or that it was black and shriveled. I don't know where you'd get that idea... Anyway the following list of movie genres will make me cry like a little girl:

1. Hockey movies (but not Slap Shot)
2. Baseball movies (but not Major League)
3. Movies where animals die (i.e. Old Yeller) or almost die (The Incredible Journey)

So there you go. HOWEVER, games like FRIDAY NIGHT just make me ANGRY. VERY UNCOOL, GUYS. VERY UNCOOL. That's all I have to say about that.

Saturday, we played better. CLEARLY. Since we got FIVE GOALS, which we rarely get even against bad teams. Very awesome. Also, SUPERB power play on Saturday, and NOT BAD on the PK either. I guess we need Gors on there MORE OFTEN. (See, Crazy Canuck, the PR machine is working. Also, don't forget to vote for Gors as Cutest Baby!) Mason Raymond = 5 Assists = AWESOME. Bryan MacGregor = 4 Points = HOTTTT. MacGregor Sharp = 3 points = ALSO HOTTT.

(And, DAN KRONICK = 1 POINT. Good job, guys!)

No Gauntlet this week, since the next game is on Wednesday, and I SHALL BE THERE. HUZZAH!

Numbers
Points Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 14 (barf)
Wins Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 6 (more barf)

My "Guys" Competition:
Matt Niskanen: 24! (Also, nearly ripped Nodl's head off!)
Michael Gergen: 13! (Off notice!)
Mike Curry: 11
Matt McKnight: 6 (Mysteriously missing from the lineup...)
Jason Garrison: 2

Freshmen Competition:
Akins: 9
Fulton: 7
Stalock: 4
Gorsalitz: 2 (Yeah! PK!)
Palm: 1
C. Ryan: 1

On Notice:
Nick Kemp: GD 6 PD 4
Mike Curry: GD 8
Drew Akins: GD 9 PD 6
Andrew Carroll: GD 12 PD 9
Trent Palm: GD 16 PD 16
Jordan Fulton: GD 25 PD 5
Ryan Geris: GD 26 PD 16
Travis Gawryletz: GD 27 PD 8
Matt McKnight: GD 4
Matt Greer: GD 4 PD 4

A Hard Luck Story

There's no denying that Friday night's win had a certain amount of luck to it. Definitely some skill, hard work, and grit, too, I'm not trying to discount that, but you just don't score an unassisted goal from center ice on skill. Unless you are a robot, and if so, what kind of powers do you have? Do you use them for good, or for awesome? Would you like to join forces? I just happen to be the greatest criminal mind of our time.

Okay, I got off track there. So, Friday night, RWD staffers had a meeting via the internet. Present were: RWD Ace Reporter and Prognosticater, DA; RWD East Coast Correspondent, H; and, of course, the lovely, brilliant, one and only RWD. UMDDogz is in the center of the continent, probably for a meeting of some sort of Unabomber-worshipping fringe group; Gramps was probably asleep. At the end of the game, after a few moments of jubilation, we discussed Saturday. DA asked who was going to be around, and everyone said they would be. In a wise moment, I cautioned everyone not to change their clothes. Because, everyone knows when you're on a winning streak, you don't change anything. You hold your breath, you cautiously avoid any words like "sweep" or "shutout", and you wear those lucky socks until the streak ends.

Fast forward to Saturday. I'm there, in my totally sweet Norm Maciver throwback (same as last night), DA is back, measuring drapes, UMDDogz is still plotting against the government, Gramps is still sleeping... BUT. NO H.

I think we can extrapolate from here what happened. The universe shifted. The 'Dogs, who were winning 2-0 through 2 periods, gave away 4 straight (incl. an empty netter). The PK had been perfect through 2, but CC's PP scored 2 of 3 in the 3rd. Mason Raymond scored 2 goals, each assisted by Biggie Mac and a RWD Guy, then got briefly injured, but returned to the game, only to finish a -1 on the night! CC finished with twice the power play opportunities (but, notice, no coaches tried to kill any referees... the players were taking care of dumping Anderson ON the ice), including on that essentially put the Tigers on the PP for nearly the rest of the game (although they scored a little over a minute into that PP, so they didn't have the full 2 minutes). UMD pulled Stalock, but couldn't get organized, and after only 10 seconds, gave up the empty netter with 59 seconds remaining.

I'm not particularly happy with how the game turned out last night, BUT we can do two things: hang our heads and cry, or go out and slaughter some Huskies.

PUMP IT UP FOR NEXT WEEKEND!!! DAN KRONICK, 0 POINTS!

Numbers
Points Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 14 (So, no need for the brooms)
Wins Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 6 (Totally achievable!)

My "Guys" Competition:
Matt Niskanen: 23!
Michael Gergen: 12
Mike Curry: 11
Matt McKnight: 6!
Jason Garrison: 2

Freshmen Competition:
Akins: 9
Fulton: 7
Stalock: 4
Gorsalitz: 2 (actually in the lineup!)
Palm: 1
C. Ryan: 1 (actually in the lineup!)

They Call It A Streak

A winning streak! Hooray!

RWD Ace reporter and prognosticator DA checks in with the following report on the game (since I had to work):

What, the first stick salute in how long? I think I used to have hair (well not that bad but it's been a while). [RWD finds this very hard to believe, as DA has not had hair since the '70s.]

First time since 2004 for a [conference] sweep, and it had been since Nov of 2004 that they won a game when trailing after two. [There was some serious grammar editing just now, and it's still a messed-up sentence fragment.] 42 games.

The scoring started early with Sharp from Gergen and Kemp at 1:06, good goal. Tech took over for a while and then finally tied it at 7:38 after the 'Dogs had killed back to back penalties. UMD used a five on three to get back in the lead but scored one second after the first penalty expired. McKnight from Niskanen and Raymond.

Kinrade tied it again on a defensive breakdown when Rouleau worked the puck past two defenders and fed the puck to Kinrade for a goal. End of one.

McGregor missed a breakaway shorthanded attempt [Aw, man! But I sure am glad THAT GUY is on our PK!] and that was followed by a goal later in the period by Batovanja at 16:45. A fight later led to a PP but they [Tech] failed to convert. End of two with Tech leading 3-2.

After a big post was hit by Geris, Sharp from Gergen and Kemp at 3:00 minutes tied the
game. A few penalties back and forth and then at 12:10 Raymond put away a great goal from a feed by McGregor and McKnight.

The scoring finished with Greer putting it in the open net from a pass from Stalock [with an assist to Josh Meyers as well, welcome back!] that tipped off Shepherd. (19:38).

What a series win over a team that, no matter how poor they are playing, usually comes into Duluth and sweeps the 'Dogs just when you think they have a chance to move up in the
standings. Maybe this year will be different. Look for a big second half.

And from the Canadian world, hockey savant and honorary RWD correspondent The Crazy Canuck gives us the inside scoop on no-longer-snake-bitten Mason Raymond:

Just to give you some history here bulldog fans, Mason Raymond has been a nemesis of goaltender Robbie Nolan for a couple of seasons. His biggest goal against this Mich Tech product was when Rob Nolan played for the Fort McMurray Oil Barons and Raymond played for the Kodiaks. The year: 2005. The series: bragging rights for the Alberta Junior Hockey League Championship. The Kods were down in this series 3 games to 1. Came back to get the second win at home. Then went into Fort McMurray in hopes of staving off elimination for the second straight game. The score: 2-0 Barons with 6 minutes to go. Kods get one. Kods get the tying goal with 35 seconds left in the game. And then in OT, Magic Man Mason does his best dipsy doodle and out maneouvers Nolan to put the biscuit in the basket. The Kods never looked back and defeated the Barons in game 7 back on home ice.

So, we've got a winning streak, we've got our top scorers with multiple points on the night, a PK that was perfect this weekend, and fans who won't stop believin'! We are ready for a second half run! (Also, there is a house party at tBeersong's, if you're interested.)

Numbers
Points Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 16 (SWEEP! GLORIOUS SWEEP!)
Wins Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 7 (HOORAY!)

My "Guys" Competition:
Matt Niskanen: 22!
Michael Gergen: 11! (Overtakes Mike Curry!)
Mike Curry: 10
Matt McKnight: 5!
Jason Garrison: 2 (We miss you!)

Freshmen Competition:
Akins: 9
Fulton: 7
Stalock: 4! (Assisted on the ENG at the end!)
Gorsalitz: 2
Palm: 1
C. Ryan: 1

This Is How We Do It

To steal from Montell Jordan, it's Friday night and I feel all right.

BECAUSE WE WON! WE FREAKIN' WON! (Ow! My freakin' ears!) Tip up your cup and throw your hands up! I'm kinda buzzed and it's all because (this is how we do it) the Bulldogs do it like nobody does!

I listened to just under half the game, when B-Mac scored the shorthanded goal to put us on top. Then I had to go to work (it's inventory time, so there were all these sketchy ex-cons with scanners running around) and forgot my cell phone at home. So, DA and UMDDogz were furiously texting me with updates, and I was none the wiser, trying to get my stuff done so I could call and find out the score. And here, there was tension, and drama, with a tie game, pipes being hit, saves being made, and OVERTIME! High stress situations that I was blissfully unaware of. It was great to see us play good D and to see Josh Johnson play well in goal. I am going to assume that was the case, considering the 2-1 outcome of the game. Superb, excellent, awesome! I'm thrilled.

Numbers
Points Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 18 (GLORY HALLELUJAH!)
Wins Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 8 (CAN I GET ANOTHER HALLELUJAH????!!!!!)

My "Guys" Competition:
Matt Niskanen: 21! (Brilliant! Game winning OT goal and SH assist!)
Mike Curry: 10 (But by all accounts played one heckuva game!)
Michael Gergen: 9
Matt McKnight: 3
Jason Garrison: 2

Freshmen Competition:
Akins: 9
Fulton: 7! (Assist on OT goal!)
Stalock: 3
Gorsalitz: 2
Palm: 1
C. Ryan: 1

All Jacked Up!

A win! A palpable win! A sweet, convincing, awesome, amazing win!

First, let's talk about last night. I was less than pleased, and also had to work early this morning (and somehow ended up at work for 10 hours), so I didn't want to say too much. However, Mike Curry's make-the-opponents-puke garbage goal was totally sweet. And Stalock had some killer saves that kept us in the game. Also, I got to watch the game through the UAA video feed, which was superb.

Now, onto tonight. What rocked about tonight?
*Winning!
*Winning on the road!
*Scoring 7 goals!
*Stalock, Stalock!
*MIKE CURRY'S 3 ASSISTS (including one where he was falling over)!
*SlumpBuster McGregor's shorthanded breakaway!
*50% on the PP!
*Jeff McFarland's goal WAS THE GAME WINNER!
*Andrew Carroll's first goal of the year!
*Michael Gergen's offensive onslaught!
*MASON RAYMOND!
*Winning every period!
*Breaking the game open in the 3rd period!
*My Norm Maciver throwback!
*The UAA video feed!
*The ARGO! and the naughty Santa commercials!

Numbers
Points Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 20 (finally!!! updating!!!)
Wins Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 9 (finally!!! yes!!! a win!!! not just a tie!!!)

My "Guys" Competition:
Matt Niskanen: 12
Michael Gergen: 8
Mike Curry: 7 (3 POINT NIGHT)
Jason Garrison: 2
Matt McKnight: 2

Freshmen Competition:
Fulton: 6
Akins: 5
Detroit Wheels: 2
Gorsalitz: 2
Stalock: 2
Palm: 1
C. Ryan: 0

Prediction: Mike Curry's going to go all Marco Peluso and rock these next 2 years.

Focusing On The Positives

...because that's what we do here. We're here to help, not hinder.

I can't say enough about Bryan McGregor. I am love, love, loving him this year. If he kept it up and had a monster Junior Lessard year, I wouldn't be opposed in the least. (We had a moment of reflection at my table at Senser's last night, as we all loved Junior. Who doesn't love Junior?) It seemed like McGregor was on the ice about 57 of the 65 minutes of the game, and he was crashing the net about half that time. My new friend, a Sioux fan who happens to be dating a prominent member of the media and a huge Gopher fan (a match made in heaven, no doubt), was very excited about Bryan as well. "Number 42! That's the guy who was denied last night!" she yelled. (On the shorthanded goal/too many men penalty ghetto debacle, she meant. Since he scored later, of course.) So, clearly, everyone is noticing Mr. McGregor.

So we lost. Got swept. Whatevs. We played hard, we didn't get embarrassed. No blow-outs. I don't know how much of the Gopher fan talk was just homer b.s. and how much was what they really believed, but they seemed to think the 'Dogs should just forfeit because we would be lucky to score, lucky to get away 10-0, etc. etc. Well, what really happened is, they were lucky to win. The 'Dogs could have just as easily won, if not for a few pipes, some horse-[feces] officiating, and a Gopher captain willing to win at any cost, if you know what I'm saying.

So, moving right along...

Numbers
Points Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 23
Wins Until We Surpass Last Year's Total: 10

My "Guys" Competition:
Matt Niskanen: 10
Michael Gergen: 4
Jason Garrison: 2
Matt McKnight: 2
Mike Curry: 0 (Tech is up next, so you know what that means... Mike's gonna bring his guns to town.)

Freshmen Competition:
Fulton: 6
Akins: 1
Stalock: 1
others: 0