Teemu Selanne Retirement Update

Via the OC Register

Teemu Selanne has begun a skating program on his own at Anaheim Ice, but that does not necessarily mean the longtime fan favorite is set for a return to the Ducks.

Selanne, who was on the ice three times last week and plans to resume skating this week, is still trying to gauge whether he has the desire to return to the rigors of NHL play, he said Saturday.

"So far, I don't know yet," Selanne said. "I'm going to skate for a couple of weeks now, start pushing more and more, and then I will feel for sure if I feel good enough. The good thing is I have done everything I have to do if I want to come back.

Read the rest here (scroll down past the Phoenix Coverage) - Link

Anaheim Ducks News - Scott Niedermayer retirement watch

Well I have another update on his possible retirement from the LA Times.

Niedermayer starts skating

Ducks defenseman hasn't decided whether or not he'll retire, but could be ready to play by mid-December if he chooses to continue his career.

By Eric Stephens, Los Angeles Times staff writer
8:53 PM PST, November 7, 2007

Scott Niedermayer has begun skating at an undisclosed Southland rink and could return to the Ducks as soon as mid-December if he decides to continue his playing career, his agent said Wednesday.
Kevin Epp stressed that his client has not made a decision and does not expect to make one for "another month." Epp said that Niedermayer, 34, has been preparing for a possible return since last week and has been on the ice with former Ducks Travis Green and Jeff Friesen.

Read the rest here - Link

Teemu Selanne and Scott Niedermayer retirement watch no....4?

So still no update, but we have lots of comments from the guys saying they have not made up their minds yet.  One things is for sure, they both said the have not been on the ice in some time.  This does not bode well as it take a good month (according to Scott in an earlier article) to get back into proper shape. So if they do come back it is at least a month away if they started practicing yesterday.  Anyways, here is a bunch of articles on them.

The Official Ducks Web site report

Scott Niedermayer

(On the indecision about his retirement)
I can’t really expand on any answers I’ve given really over the last five or six weeks, nothing has really changed, it’s just that now at this point when I do make the decision you know finalize it, that’s really the next step. I don’t think I can really get into each day, each second of how I’m feeling or what I’m thinking.

(On what it feels like having to watch games) Well when things aren’t going well, it’s not fun, you’d rather be out there trying to help. I’m not saying that would make a big difference but at least you’re out there with your teammates trying to help that would feel better than sitting on the couch watching that’s for sure. It is a tough situation, especially with the way the year started for the team, that big road trip coming over the Stanley Cup win, it’s a huge challenge.

(On if he has skated yet) I haven’t.

(On when he may make his decision) I have a little bit of an idea in my mind, but I probably won’t share that.

(On missing being out there) Yeah, of course. It’s, you have a lot of fun, obviously there’s a lot of pressure at different times things like that, but in between a lot of that we have a lot of fun. Whether its in practice, on a plane ride, going out for dinner or in the middle of a game, it’s been my life for a long time, you definitely miss those things.

Teemu Selanne

(On the ovation during the ceremony) It was awesome. It was emotional too. After last year, it was so special for all of us.

(On his decision) I just try to listen to myself, if I want to come back. It has to come from inside if you really want to play.

Read the rest here - Link

An OC Register has an article on their status (among other things)

Fans in the Honda Center sellout crowd of 17,285 repeatedly chanting "One more year" during Wednesday's Stanley Cup banner-raising ceremony can rest assured that Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne heard it loud and clear.

The former Ducks captain and longtime fan favorite, each of whom has stayed away from the team this season while contemplating retirement, could not deny their emotions after being bombarded with affection as the club celebrated its 2007 Stanley Cup, Western Conference and Pacific Division championships before the home opener against Boston.

"We just tried to sort of enjoy seeing the banners go up," Niedermayer said. "To feel the fans' encouragement, I felt it. It was pretty convincing. I was just glad I was beside Teemu, because he's been here so long. I haven't been here that long. I didn't know what to expect. It was very nice to hear. I'll definitely take that under consideration."

Read the rest here - Link

The AP has an article on them as well

Fans chanted "one more year!" at Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne when they joined the rest of the Anaheim Ducks in unveiling the team's Stanley Cup championship banner Wednesday night.

Even NHL commissioner Gary Bettman chimed in, telling Niedermayer, "We, of course, would love to see you back" during the first period intermission of the Ducks' home opener against Boston.

Niedermayer and Selanne have yet to announce whether they intend to play this season or retire.

Both players definitely heard the fans' pleas of another season, and witnessed the standing ovations.

"It was pretty convincing," Niedermayer said after the first period.

Selanne added, "It was pretty awesome. It was emotional, too."

Even while they wait, the Ducks have moved on. Defenseman Chris Pronger was named captain in place of Niedermayer, and the team signed defenseman Mathieu Schneider from Detroit during the offseason as insurance in case Niedermayer called it quits.

Then, Niedermayer said he told general manager Brian Burke that he was leaning toward retirement at 34. But now, he said, "I'm not as sure as I was."

The Ducks could use their two veteran stars. Anaheim had lost three consecutive games heading into Wednesday night after splitting a season-opening two-game series with the Los Angeles Kings in London.

Read the rest here - Link

Teemu Selanne & Scott Niedermayer Retirement Watch Part 3

Just to update you all, there has been no change in their status.  They are still undecided.  The way the Ducks have been playing, it would be nice to have them back.

Part 2 - Teemu Selanne Retirement Watch

Teemu held a press conference similar to Scott.  No new news except for the fact that he reiterated again that he would only return to the Ducks. However it was an interesting interview so I have linked a few here.

The LA Times

Teemu Selanne remains in that netherworld that every professional athlete ventures into near the end of a career.
The same question is always asked: When is it time to quit?

Much like Scott Niedermayer is wrestling with thoughts of retirement, so too is Selanne.
"The decision is way harder than I thought," he told a small group of reporters at Anaheim Ice on Friday. "I thought it was going to be an easy decision and just move on. Obviously, everything has just been unbelievable here. When you have played something since you were 6 years old. . . . Now I know how players say how hard it is to retire.
"Part of me wants to play and the other part, right now, is not ready to do what it takes."
Selanne, who turned 37 on July 3, reached the pinnacle of his long career when the Ducks defeated the Ottawa Senators to win the Stanley Cup. It was the only thing missing on an accomplished resume that includes 540 career goals, including a team-high 48 last season.

Read the rest here - Link

Official Ducks Website

On whether Scott Niedermayer’s decision would impact his,

"I’ve tried not to think about that. Scotty has a very similar decision to make, even though he has two years to go on his contract. But I’ve been talking to Scotty about every week. And it’s the same thing with him. If you want to play hockey again, come back. If you don’t, it’s time to do other things. You’ve got to be very honest with yourself. But it’s an individual decision between the two of us, and I’ve tried not to think about what he’s going to do. But for sure it’s going to affect me a little bit.

"The guys have tried to ask me to come out and skate. One of the greatest things about team sports is the camaraderie with the guys and in the locker room. That’s the thing that guys miss the most when they retire.

"I’d like to make this decision as soon as possible, but I have to have a clear idea and feeling about what I want to do. I know when I watch the games and get a little closer to it, I know I’ll have the feeling about whether I want to play or not. If I’m not, it will be great to come watch the games. But like I said, it’s an unbelievably hard decision. I didn’t expect it to be this hard."

"When you retire, you'd like to go out on top and as a champion. And winning was so satisfying that my body has been mentally and physically empty since then. And that's why to come back it has to be for the right reason, and that's a love for the game and a desire to play. I haven't had that, but lately I've been thinking differently, and that's why I want to wait and see how I feel when the season starts. And again, that's why I'm thankful the Ducks gave me as much time as I need. Obviously they want me back, but they want me back in the same shape I was in the last couple of years. And I want to be in top shape if I come back."

Read the rest here - Link

Press Enterprise

While waiting to make his decision, Selanne is enjoying time with his family, playing golf and adjusting to the role of being a hockey dad, shuttling his three boys to their youth games.

"So far I have spent more time at the rink than during the season," joked Selanne. "All the practices at the different times ... I start to appreciate those parents (who are helping their children play)."

Selanne has also been speaking with Niedermayer, as they both contemplate their playing status.

"I try not to think about what Scotty is doing; he has (a) very similar situation," said Selanne. "Obviously if I read the paper and Scotty is going to play one more year, for sure it would affect me a little bit. But I try not to think about it."

Ducks fans are hoping they don't have to think about the absence of Selanne and Niedermayer on a permanent basis.

Read the rest here - Link

Finally, Internet access from home. So I finally get to post the latest Anaheim Ducks News!

Well, as Earl said it was Indecisionmayer time. I hope he makes the best decision for him and his family and I will give a respite from any cajoling.  So I have for you tonight some more Niedermayer analysis, the state of Sami Pahlsson, a little news on training camp, some tales of the cup and other exciting Ducks News.  Also for AnaheimDuckFan and all the other O'Donnell fans, I have a few more pics from Total photo posted here.

Niedermayer Analysis

MVN has their look at the Niedermayer retirement issues.

With his youngest curly headed son off to the side, Scott Niedermayer took some time to talk with the media this morning about his retirement decision. Or in Scott’s case a non-decision. Niedermayer answered questions for about 30 minutes and made it clear that his decision is still 50/50 until he decides one way or the other about retirement. While he expressed gratitude to GM Brian Burke for giving him as much time as he needed to make a decision, he wishes that Burke had set a deadline that would have forced him to make a decision.

Over the summer Niedermayer has spoken with a lot of people about retirement - his children, his wife, his family, teammates, other retired players, such as Scott Stevens, Ken Daneyko and Pat LaFontaine. He has heard a lot of unsolicited advice as well, especially in Canada when people on the street felt the obligation to put in their two cents worth. What it all comes down to is that the decision is personal and it truly has to be his decision.

Niedermayer did admit that he has done nothing over the summer to train or prepare for the upcoming season and that is one of the factors in his decision. Does he have the energy and ability to commit to doing the necessary things to have a successful season? He admitted that it would take him about four weeks to prepare to be on the ice if he were to start this afternoon. It is clear that he is not going to start skating and training this afternoon. On the plus side, the stress fractures and medical issues that hampered him this past season have completely healed and they are not an issue at this point.

Read the rest here - Link

Earl from BOC has his analysis plus one of the funnier graphics I have seen.

Well, more on Niedergate: the wavering one has called a press conference for 10:30 am this morning, but word on the internet is that he will essentially tell us nothing. Per the OC Register, Scott will miss the start of training camp, but other than that his future is no more clear than it was in June: “Maybe I’ll be in camp in a week, or for that matter, I could never put on skates again.”
And while Ducks fans and non-Ducks fans alike fret and stew and wonder and wait, I gotta side with Brian Burke on this issue: "I think there's a misperception out there that this is somehow inconveniencing us. And it's not. We want this player to return. The phone call we don't want is that he's going to retire. The fact he's undecided and this might stretch into the start of the year, this is not a crisis mode for us. This is good news. Because it means he hasn't made the one phone call we don't want him to make."

Read the rest here - Link

Sami Pahlsson has a sports hernia and will be out for 3-5 weeks.  Get well soon!

Anaheim Ducks forward Samuel Pahlsson will miss 3 to 5 weeks with a sports hernia, Anaheim Executive Vice President/General Manager Brian Burke told media Thursday.
The 29-year-old Pahlsson, entering his seventh season with the Ducks, underwent surgery on Sept. 5 in Philadelphia. Performing the procedure was Dr. Bill Meyer, who performed the same surgery on Ducks goalie J.S. Giguere in early August.
"The recovery time is 3 to 5 weeks and, as was the case with Jiggy, the question is going to be why on earth was this done in September?" Burke said. "Sammy went through abdominal pain throughout the playoffs, but the recommendation was rest. Once he did hard workouts, the pain was off and on, but he didn’t have steady pain."

Read the rest here - Link

A look at the Portland Pirates coaching staff's evaluation time of the rookies

"Part of our role has always been development, and I can look at the strides these kids have made since I saw them at our development camp," said Dineen, who will be back for his third season with the Pirates. "I'll get to see where they've taken a few steps. At 18 or 19, that's when you can measure progression month to month after they've been associated with a professional organization for the first time."

Dineen said the two exhibition games, which will be played Saturday and Sunday at the NHL team's 750-seat training facility, will provide good opportunities for him to evaluate the young players.

"Those two games are important," he said. "Once (the) main camp starts, there's no guarantee those guys are going to get much playing time because you're going from 25 bodies to 45 or 50 bodies."

A few of the young players at the camps can't be classified as rookies.

Included in that group are forwards Drew Miller and Ryan Carter, who made their NHL debuts with the Ducks during the Stanley Cup playoffs after spending their first professional season in the AHL with the Pirates.

Read the rest here - Link

Stanley Cup Playoff game worn jerseys up for auction

Own a piece of history! Welcome to the Beckett Media auction of Stanley Cup Playoff game worn HOME jerseys from the 2007 Stanley Cup Champion
Anaheim Ducks.

This special offering of jerseys will be your unique opportunity to own a game worn Playoff HOME Ducks jersey. These jerseys were used in the Stanley Cup Playoff rounds one through three. Home jerseys from the Ducks playoff run are exceptionally difficult to find, due to the fact the home Stanley Cup Finals jerseys were given to the players.

Each jersey has a special tag sewn into the inside hem, identifying it as authentic 2007 Playoffs worn. You will also receive a letter from the Ducks, individually certifying each jersey's authenticity. Each jersey, other than Brad May, has been personally autographed on the back number in black marker. The Ducks letter also verifies the authenticity of these signatures.

Ric Jackman - Auction begins September 6
Corey Perry - Auction begins September 6
Shawn Thornton - Auction begins September 6
Joe DiPenta - Auction begins September 7
Chris Kunitz - Auction begins September 7
Brad May - Auction begins September 7
Kent Huskins - Auction begins September 10
Travis Moen - Auction begins September 10
Dustin Penner - Auction begins September 10
Ryan Getzlaf - Auction begins September 11
Sean O’Donnell - Auction begins September 11
Andy McDonald - Auction begins September 12
Chris Pronger - Auction begins September 12

Read the rest here - Link

The Canadian Press has a look at the NHL and the prospects of a Ducks repeat.

Western Conference

Anaheim Ducks: The NHL hasn't had a back-to-back champion in nearly a decade - Detroit last turned the trick in '97 and '98. Which brings us to the Ducks, who have a legitimate shot at pulling it off. Much will depend, of course, on whether Conn Smythe Trophy winner and perennial Norris Trophy contender Scott Niedermayer decides to come back at some point this season. Mathieu Schneider was a nice insurance pickup by GM Brian Burke but in no way comes close to replacing the skill level, minutes played and leadership Niedermayer gives the Ducks. The addition of winger Todd Bertuzzi should mitigate the possible loss of Teemu Selanne, who also hasn't yet decided on whether or not he'll be back. Losing up-and-comer Dustin Penner to Edmonton was a tough blow. Ryan Getzlaf is just scratching the surface of what should be a superb career and the Ducks, led by Chris Pronger and J.S. Giguere, still have a championship core to contend. They'll be top four in the West and threaten to repeat as champs.

Read the rest here - Link

The Stanley Cup visits Huntington Beach and the Tiger Woods Learning Center

Riding in a black stretch limousine and accompanied by a white-gloved handler, the Stanley Cup made a surprise appearance this morning in Huntington Beach.
Stunned diners at the Sugar Shack cafe took a break from their pancakes and eggs to snap photos with the trophy, given to professional hockey's championship team.

"It felt surreal," said Kenny Brooks, who eats at the landmark diner every other week. "You always hear about how it travels around the United States and Canada, but you never imagine that you're going to be around it."
After the Anaheim Ducks won the NHL championship in June, each player and team official got to take possession of the 115-year-old silver trophy for 24 hours and could take it wherever he pleased.
Thursday was team Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Tim Ryan's day. Ryan, who has lived in Huntington Beach for a decade, said it was fitting to start the day in his hometown. He planned to take the 35-pound cup on a visit to see children at the Tiger Woods Learning Center in Anaheim, then to a private party for 200.

Read the rest here - Link

 

The Stanley Cup takes a trip to Providence with Brian Burke

The Stanley Cup will be at Providence College on Sunday, October 7.

Sept. 4, 2007

PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Providence College hockey head coach Tim Army announced today that the Stanley Cup will be coming to PC's Schneider Arena on Sunday, October 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Members of the media and Friends of Friar Hockey supporters are invited to a reception hosted by former Friar Brian Burke, General Manager of the Anaheim Ducks. Invitations are to follow. Burke led his team to its first ever NHL Stanley Cup championship on June 7. Anaheim won the best-of-seven series against the Ottawa Senators (four-games-to-one) and became the first West Coast team to capture the Stanley Cup.

Burke, who played in 112 games at PC from 1973-77, became the second former Friar (while serving as a general manager) to help an NHL team capture the Stanley Cup title. Lou Lamoriello `63, who was a player, head coach and athletic director at PC and is the current CEO/President and General Manager of the New Jersey Devils, has guided his team to three Stanley Cup crowns

See the original post here - Link

 

And finally, Sean O'Donnell with the cup, episode 2.  Thanks to Totalphoto's flickr blog for the photos.

 

Scott Niedermayer Retirement Watch - 9/6, The agony continues

Well, the agony continues. The press conference is over and he stated that he has not made up his mind.. So the wait continues. Here is the latest from the Ducks website.

Scott Niedermayer spoke to reporters for 30 minutes today at the Ducks practice facility, Anaheim ICE, confirming what he told reporters yesterday: that he is still undecided on retirement, but he will definitely be late to training camp should he decide to return. Ducks training camp starts next Tuesday, Sept. 11.

"I wish I had a decision right now," said Niedermayer, clad in a green polo shirt with one of his young sons sitting a few feet away. "My preference would be to know right now and to start and be ready to go with the rest of the guys. It's not looking like that might happen, so we go to Plan B and the second best option, which is to come to a decision as quickly as possible. I don't want to drag this out any longer than I have to. The team has enough to worry about.

"It’s unfortunate that the decision has taken this long for me to make. I guess it’s definitely become harder than I envisioned. The last thing I want is to be a distraction to the team. Brian has been very good in allowing me the time. I haven’t been asked to make it official. Hopefully, once things get rolling, I’ll get a better feeling if I want to be on the ice or not."

Audio

NIEDERMAYER AUDIO (MP3s)
Part 1 (8:36)
Part 2 (8:32)
Part 3 (7:26)
Part 4 (1:37)

Here is the link to the orignal post - Link

TSN has their take - Link

With four Stanley Cups, an Olympic gold medal, a Memorial Cup, the World Cup of Hockey title and gold at both the World and World Junior Championships, winning has been seemingly easy for Scott Niedermayer.

Making a decision on his playing career has not.

The Anaheim Ducks' captain met with the media on Thursday, saying he has not yet decided on retirement, and will definitely be late for training camp should he decide to return. The Ducks being training camp next Tuesday.

"I wish I had a decision right now," Niedermayer said Thursday.

Here is the CBC's account:

Anaheim Ducks captain Scott Niedermayer isn't ready to decide whether to hang up his skates.

Niedermayer, 34, hinted he might retire after he helped the Ducks defeat the Ottawa Senators to win the Stanley Cup in June.

He told reporters Thursday that he is still undecided on retirement and that he will definitely report late to Anaheim's training camp — which opens on Sept. 11 — should he return for a 15th NHL season.

"I wish I had a decision right now," Niedermayer said. "My preference would be to know right now and to start and be ready to go with the rest of the guys. It's not looking like that might happen, so we go to Plan B and the second best option, which is to come to a decision as quickly as possible.

Read the rest here - Link

Scott Niedermayer Retirement Watch - The Latest News and part of his day with the Cup

Thanks to TSN we have the latest news on Scott's status.  Which if you do not read the article or watch the video, remains undetermined. However if you want more details, read the article and watch the linked video. I also have an article from CBC about his day with the Cup.

TSN Report

It came as a surprise to almost everyone in the hockey world when reports surfaced this summer that Anaheim Ducks captain Scott Niedermayer was seriously considering retirement - just after leading the team to its first Stanley Cup.

But when the 33-year-old NHL veteran returned to his hometown of Cranbrook, B.C., with teammate and brother Rob to show off the Cup on Monday, he admitted that a return next season is still very much a possibility.

"Obviously, it's a lot different after the Stanley Cup playoffs," Niedermayer told TSN. "You're tired, you've been through a long year. And after having some time off, you're feeling better physically."

The Conn Smythe Trophy winner as playoff MVP informed general manager Brian Burke of the possibility of retirement during the players' exit interviews a few days after Anaheim won its championship. But a couple of months away from the ice has the future Hall of Famer in a somewhat different mindset.

"I'm in a different spot, no question about it," he told TSN. "But again, I'm just trying to make the right decision. I know it's unfortunate that people are waiting to see what the decision is - it's not fun, but that's the way it is right now."

Read the rest here - Link

Watch the video here - Link

CBC - Short Article

It's a day they probably dreamed about a million times growing up.But boyhood dreams turned to reality for Rob and Scott Niedermayer on Monday when the brothers paraded the Stanley Cup through their hometown of Cranbrook, B.C.

They arrived as conquering heroes after helping the Ducks of Anaheim win the first NHL championship in club history. But instead of a chariot, the brothers rode through town on a Zamboni.

Winning Lord Stanley's trophy was exactly what the brothers were thinking about when they signed with Anaheim. But now that they have won a championship as teammates, what to do for an encore?

Scott isn't sure whether he is going to play this season. After four Stanley Cups, retirement is a real possibility.

You can see the original article here - Link

Thanks to Kootenay Sports Online for this photo

The Stanley Cup will be visiting Fernie, BC

Anaheim Ducks star Scott Niedermayer will be bringing the cup to Fernie Alpine Resort Tuesday, August 28th for a ride up Timber Chair to the Lost Boys Café. Time in resort is expected to be limited but if you’ve ever wanted to see the cup up close this is your chance.

The ride up the lift will take place at approximately 11:30 am and should last about a half hour. Fernie Alpine Resort will be offering complimentary rides up the Timber Chair between 11:15-12:30 for this event.

In addition both Scott and Rob Niedermayer will be in Cranbrook on Monday where a small pep rally and skate around the ice are scheduled to take place.

Thanks to Ourfernie.com for the info - Link

Tuesday News - Niedermeyer & Selanne Retirement Update

Well it was a news filled day.  I've got a small update from a reliable source on the retirement watch. I have a Bryzgalov video, Andy and Corey's day with the cup has been posted at the Stanley Cup Journal.  The Wild Wingers Kids Club renewals have gone out, and more!

Niedermeyer and Selanne Retirement Watch Update. 

Niedermayer, Selanne status known next week

Ducks General Manager Brian Burke said he will ask the players for a decision, probably this weekend.

By DAN WOOD

The Orange County Register

The Ducks expect to know by early next week whether to expect team captain Scott Niedermayer and fellow superstar Teemu Selanne on the ice when training camp begins Sept. 10.

It doesn’t look promising in either case.

"Obviously, at some point I have to ask Scotty if he plans to come to camp or not," General Manager Brian Burke said Tuesday. "I have to ask them both that. I probably will pretty quickly, probably by this weekend.

"My guess would be that they’re probably not. If that were their intent, I think I would have heard by now."

Read the rest here - Link

The Stanley Cup Journal has been updated with Andy and Corey's days with cup.

Andy

After returning from Russia, the Stanley Cup was the guest of honour of All-Star sniper Andy McDonald on Saturday, August 11. It was an early birthday gift for the high-scoring McDonald, who celebrates his 30th birthday on August 25.

Andy met the Cup in London, Ontario, just outside his hometown of Strathroy. He and his guests climbed into a private plane and flew to Hamilton, New York, the home of Andy's alma mater, Colgate University.

It was on this campus that McDonald earned his introduction to the NHL. Deemed "too small" to play pro, he spent four seasons starring with Colgate, progressing further each year: 19 points in 1996-97; 32 in 1997-98; 46 in 1998-99 and 58 in 1999-2000. That spring, Andy McDonald was signed as a free agent by Anaheim.

Corey

For a young man just turned 20, Corey Perry has already seen the halcyon highs of hockey. In 2004-05, Perry led the Ontario Hockey League in scoring as his London Knights steamrolled over the competition on their way to the Memorial Cup. In addition to winning junior hockey's top prize that year, Corey also was part of Team Canada's gold medal win at the World Junior championship. Drafted by Anaheim in the first round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, he made his professional debut with the Ducks in 2005-06. Then, of course, in his sophomore season, Corey Perry is part of Stanley Cup history.

Sunday, August 12 saw Perry meet the Stanley Cup at the Peterborough Memorial Arena in his Ontario hometown. Joined by his brother and parents, Corey spent two hours signing autographs and posing for photos.

Al Coates

Before jetting off to Europe, Al Coates, the Senior Advisor to GM Brian Burke, took hockey's legendary trophy home to Listowel, Ontario.

It was a day of celebration with a tinge of melancholy for the community. There, in front of the library, is a monument that pays tribute to a horrific accident that befell the community at 9:30 on the morning of February 28, 1959. An accumulation of snow weighed down the roof of the local arena. Crackling timbers gave the peewee game in progress no warning, and the roof collapsed, killing eight and injuring 29. Seven of the dead were young hockey players.

 Read the rest here - Link

The Keeper of the Cup photo blog has been updated.  Here are a few samples

 

See the rest here - Link

Ilya Bryzgalov video, courtesy of No Pun Intended.  The video is in Russian, but is interesting - Link Visit No Pun Intended here - Link

A nice review of the happenings this month by MVN

Even though the Ducks extended their hockey season into June and the players are still taking turns with the Stanley Cup, it is inevitable by this time in August that we all find ourselves yearning for the season to start. Enough with the 90 degree weather - where is that refreshingly cool ice rink? The free season feeding frenzy has slowed to a virtual standstill. There aren’t even interesting arbitration hearings set (anyone else wish they had been a fly on the wall at Sean Avery’s?)

Read the rest here - Link

Rick Paterson had his day with the cup Monday

The Stanley Cup made its return to Tampa Bay on Monday - even if only for a day.

Treasure Island resident Rick Paterson, scouting director for the Anaheim Ducks, used his turn with hockey's Holy Grail to court it around several spots in St. Petersburg.

Paterson, 49, a former Lightning assistant and scout, hosted the Cup for the fourth time (he won two as a Penguins assistant in 1991-92). But this time has been more special: his wife, Kathy, gave birth to twins less than two days after the Ducks won the Stanley Cup in June.

"It was a pretty darn good 48 hours," Paterson said. "Won a Stanley Cup and had two healthy babies in 48 hours. That's tough to beat."

Read the rest - Link

The Wild Wingers Kids Club memberships are available for renewal.  You should be getting a letter in the next few days.  Here is what your little duckling gets this year.  The captain this year is Chris Kunitz and the cost is $20.  They sold out last year so renew as soon as you can and for those of you may be new fans, please keep an eye out for when they make it open to everybody.

One Ticket voucher to a select home game

Kids Club Hat

Kids Club T Shirts (youth large and adult medium)

Ducks Jersey Backpack

Duck Call

Calendar

Duck Tag - Glow in the dark

Discounts to various places (Ducks Team Store, Discovery Science Center, etc.)

Three in season parties

End of Year party

Weekly drawings to win Zamboni Rides and other cool stuff.

Wednesday Evening Duck News

There was a lot of news today.  Some of it bad (Selanne) and some of it was good.  So on with the show!

Selanne News from the official Anaheim Ducks Blog

We have a follow-up on that Teemu Selanne story in the Finnish newspaper. A fan named Jan-Erik was kind enough to provide me with a much better translation than the one I found from the online translator. Here it is:

Motivation completely lost

Teemu Selanne's return highly unlikely.

Family means more to Teemu Selanne than continuing his career.

It is starting to look quite sure that Teemu Selanne won't be taking part to Anaheim Ducks' training camp that starts in a month's time.

"Hockey has been my life's work, but there is a lot more to life than that. The thing I fear the most is that I would base my decision (about my career) on something else than motivation and hockey". Selanne told on YLE interview.

See the rest here - Link

From the same link it tells you how to order the commemorative book that I mentioned earlier here are the details

I've gotten a couple of emails from out-of-town Ducks fans asking how they can purchase the Commemorative Tribute if they can't get to the Team Store. Give the Team Store a call at (888) 438-2505 and they can arrange having one or more shipped to you. So, please do that if you can't get to the Team Store. It really is a nice publication. 

Also according to the blog training camp starts September 11 at Anaheim Ice and is open to the public. 

Earl at BOC gives Teemu a reason to stay

Not to steal any thunder from Rudy's hilarious post below, but today the Hockey News decided to break out their Finnish translators to report that indications are that Teemu Selanne is likely going to retire.

Just because the Hockey News is run by dunces doesn't mean that their translation is wrong--I've seen enough message board affirmation to think this is the way Teemu is leaning. All I can offer is one last reason for Selanne to consider coming back.

Read the rest here  - Link

NHL releases their television schedule.  This is not the whole Ducks schedule, just what is being broadcast nationally.

NEW YORK – The National Hockey League (NHL) today announced the television schedules of NBC, VERSUS, CBC, TSN, RDS, HDNet and NHL Network for the 2007-08 season.

In the U.S., VERSUS and NBC return for a third year as the NHL’s national television partners.  In Canada, CBC begins its 55th consecutive year of NHL broadcast coverage while TSN – which began covering the NHL in 1985 – is once again the national cable partner.  RDS, the French-language telecast partner of the NHL, enters its fifth year televising regular-season Montreal Canadiens and other select games.  HDNet, a national High Definition telecast partner of the NHL, begins its sixth year of NHL coverage, while NHL Network heads into its fourth year of televising live NHL regular season games.

The NHL’s 90th anniversary season begins 45 days from today when the Stanley Cup Champion Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings open the 2007-08 regular season with the two-game NHL Premiere series at London's O2 Arena on Saturday, Sept. 29 and Sunday, Sept. 30 (both starts noon ET).  The season-opening game Saturday will be covered live by HDNet in the U.S. and by CBC’s “Hockey Night In Canada.”  VERSUS begins its season with the live telecast of Sunday’s game.  The remainder of the regular season begins Wednesday, Oct. 3 and the 56th NHL All-Star Game will be played Jan. 27 at Philips Arena in Atlanta.

Read the rest here - Link

See the Ducks Schedule here - Link

Some more on the NHL Schedule

After finding success last season with flexible schedules of its “Sunday Night Football” games, NBC is set to copy that formula for its hockey telecasts.

The NBC NHL “Game of the Week” is set to drop the puck on Sunday, Jan. 20, with either the Boston Bruins at the New York Rangers or the Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks at the Dallas Stars as the network readies for its third season.

NBC will be able to pick from up to four games for each Sunday’s telecast, selecting one of those options to be the “Game of the Week.”

Much like the flex-scheduling of its NFL games, the decision was made with an eye to ensure maximum relevancy for each telecast.

NBC will give 13 days’ notice of which game it chooses to air.

Read the rest here - Link

Bryzgolav has his day with the Stanley Cup. The link is all in Russian and has multiple articles and lots of photos.  This link is courtesy of Scotttishockeygod on the Anaheim Ducks message board (forum.anaheimducks.com)

The Russian Translation

The unique event will take place in Togliatti soon. The Stanley Cup, the championship trophy of the National Hockey League, appeared to be in our town on the 6th of August. Informational server TLTnews.ru is to monitor its way on the territory of Samara region.

Its correspondent meets “Lord Stanley’s Mug”, as it is known abroad, in “Kurumoch” international airport. The visitors of the server would be the 1st to get news about the Stanley Cup at every moment of its stay in the area. In order to know everything it’s enough to go to www.tltnews.ru/stanley_cup.php.

By now it contains a lot of information about “Lord Stanley’s Mug” – its history, the Russians’ names, who won the trophy in different years, the program of its stay in Togliatti. It’s also possible to get acquainted with Ilya Bryzgalov, the pupil of AVTOVAZ hockey school, due to whom people of Togliatti have opportunity to look at the Stanley Cup. Besides this, on the page one finds the hockey-player’s interview, where Ilya tells us about himself and his impressions of the victory in NHL.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See the rest here - Link

By the way Bryzgalov is a very funny and strange guy.  He is one of my favorite Ducks.  Here is one of the reasons why:

 

 

The Anaheim Ducks are participating in Project Playhouse.  This charity is to raise funds for HomeAid Orange County.

Project Playhouse is the unique fundraising event that benefits HomeAid Orange County, a non-profit organization that builds and renovates shelters for the transitionally homeless in the community. With immense imagination and craftsmanship, Southern California's premier homebuilders have designed, constructed, and decorated whimsical cottages that look like they have popped from the pages of a fairytale went to modern creations brimming with technology.

The Auction has been extremely beneficial to HomeAid Orange County’s Shelter Development Program. HomeAid was founded by the leadership of the Orange County Chapter of the Building Industry Association of Southern California in June, 1989 to help alleviate the homeless problem in Orange County. HomeAid is successfully mobilizing and utilizing the skills, talents and financial resources of BIA-member companies and the community to construct and renovate homeless shelters throughout Orange County.

Visit their website here - Link

Scott has still not made up his mind and may not for a while!

According to TSN

Niedermayer's agent, Kevin Epp told CKNW in Vancouver Tuesday that his All-Star client is still mulling things over.

Read the rest here - Link