March 11, 2010
TEAM VICTORY
HAMDEN 4 XAVIER 3
Amarone/Baker Outstanding in net
Carignan 2G 1A leads Hamden
Connor Walsh Scores, Burt nets goal
Xavier Gives Its All in Tremendous Game
The Hamden Green Dragons and Xavier Falcons put on quite a show last evening at an overflowing Lou Astorino Ice Arena in Hamden. Three unanswered goals in the game's final 8 1/2 minutes propelled Hamden to a 4-3 victory. Dylan Baker was outstanding in net for the Middletown Team turning away 36 Hamden shots to keep his team in the game.
Ryan Amarone made the saves when he needed for Hamden as the Senior Net-Minder stopped 19 shots by the visitors. "Amarone was the key in that first period. He made save after save that kept Hamden in the game," said West Falmouth Cougar's scout Johnny Sides after the game. "The kid has come along all year and is really playing his best now. What a great time for Hamden to have Ryan hitting on all cylinders."
After a scoreless first period in which Xavier dominated, the teams came out in the second firing hard. Xavier jumped on the Green Dragons and got ahead 1-0 on a goal by Mike Samek at the 3:01 mark. It was assisted by outstanding defenseman Nick Turner. Then at the 13:20 mark Hamden native Dan Walsh--one of the state's most gifted forwards--buried a beautiful roof top special to put the Falcons up 2-0. Walsh's goal was assisted by talented juniors Trevor Buchas and Kurt Johnson.
The period ended with Xavier up 2-0 and Hamden heading to their locker room contemplating a NDWH-like rally in the third. The Third Period opened up with a big goal by Connor Walsh. Walsh planted himself just outside the crease, controlled an Adam Devine pass with his skate and hammered it home to bring the crowd to its feet and Hamden to within 1 at 2-1. Devine had an assist on the goal.
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Connor Walsh with gritty tip-in goal |
Ryan Amarone--follow me boys |
Adam Devine coils and fires |
Then at the 4:30 mark Brandon Reid scored a gorgeous goal beating Amarone to put Xavier back up 3-1. It was an unassisted goal and took the air out of the Green Dragons and their hometown crowd. Coach Bill Verneris called a time out with just a little over 8 minutes to go to rally the troops. Hamden needed something special just like they brewed up last week in defeating NDWH with three unanswered goals in the third.
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Dan Walsh scores for Xavier |
Dylan Baker makes fine glove save on J. Mac shot |
Brandon Reid Celebrates Beauty |
Could it happen again? Never doubt the power of Cannon Ball Park. Never stop skating. Never give up.
TAKE A RIGHT--it's Jim Dadio's Cannon Ball Park Express. It's mystical. It can't be explained. It's there. You have it. TAKE A RIGHT!
Jim Burt got it going with a goal at the 6:38 mark. It was assisted by CJ Carignan who was re-united with Burt and PJ Vakos after the time out. Carignan then scored in the high slot to tie the game 3-3. Burt and Brandon Dadio had assists while Vakos did the dirty work in front of the net. Then with just 49 ticks left on the clock Carignan scored what he termed a "Team Goal" on a pass from behind the net which deflected off a Xavier player and ended up in the net.
CJ CARIGNAN TWO GOALS & ASSIST IN LAST EIGHT MINUTES LEADS GREEN DRAGONS TO VICTORY!!!!
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Jim Burt scores 3-2 @ 6:38 |
PJ Vakos leaps out of CJ Carignan's way 3-3 @10:09 |
CJ Carignan Leaps into Jim Burt's arms 4-3 @14:11 |
"I simpy can't believe it," said area scouting legend, Paul Scott. "Last year, first round, New Canaan comes into our house and plays brilliantly and we win in Double OT. Tonight, Xavier--a tough & talented team-- played their hearts out. Those kids were outstanding and are one of the best coached teams in the state. We were fortunate to come out with the win and I hope those kids went back to Middletown with their heads held high because they gave it their all and should be darn proud of themselves."
Xavier Team--Tough & Talented
Hamden has now won back to back games with third period rallies that defy description. Maturity comes to teenagers slowly. Old age comes to adults quickly. Burtsville and most of the Hamden parents were in their 40's and 50's when this season started. After the last two games--especially last night's--we are now in our 80's. Please guys--knock it off!
Hamden plays Notre Dame of Fairfield Saturday at a time and place to be announced. Keep playing hard boys. Don't let up. Step One has been taken and just concentrate on Step Two. Nothing is easy. Keep working hard. Keep playing as a team. And, keep on scoring. An explosion of offense is coming.
BURTSVILLE BELIEVES!!!!
And Burtsville tips its' cap to Head Coach Scott Gainey and Assistant Coach John Stanton who showed tremendous class after a tough defeat. It is leadership like these men displayed that makes a Program great and Burtsville has no doubt that Xavier will be back next year stronger than ever.
And a parting good bye to all the fine teams that got knocked off yesterday; particularly to East Haven and West Haven. We had epic battles against both teams this year and we are truly sorry to see our area teams out of the tournament. Both teams had fine years--and Coach Joe Morrell's West Haven squad had an incredible year. It is tough to end the season but Coach Morrell and Coach Lou Pane--a Burtsville favorite--are two of the finest coaches in the state and two of the finest gentlemen.
You and your teams should be rightly proud of your seasons. Your players should be proud of their accomplishments. And to Coach Pane and to Coach John Ascenzia whose sons play on their respective teams and are graduating this year, your boys had a great season and as dads you should be very proud--as we're sure you are. Good Luck to young Lou and John as they go onto the next phase of their education and life. And that's what it's all about!
All the pictures from this game will be uploaded to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com within two weeks of this article. Every game from this year has been uploaded to that site. Burtsville has taken approximately 30,000 pictures this year at games and they are all on the site for anyone to use. If you haven't been to that site yet, please visit it and use the pictures any way you like.
Enjoy!
March 7, 2010
HAMDEN STARTS PLAYOFFS WEDNESDAY AT HOME vs. XAVIER 6:00 P.M.
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BURTSVILLE BELIEVES!!!!
Hamden Team at Edgartown Lighthouse December 2009
Boys, what a season it has been,
for you and all of us,
from the Vineyard and back,
to Rhode Island on the Gemmell Bus.
And now it's at the time,
to start the trip again,
and remember where you've been to,
and where you all want it to end.
Ryan you've done it all,
you've made us proud of your play,
It was a very long journey for you,
but this year you had your say.
You've done a fine job my young man,
as your old baseball coach knew all along,
All you needed was a chance,
You've sung a great season song.
Ryan Amarone
Now, you have it infront of you,
a place we all knew you belonged,
Now keep on playing great,
And you'll get to sing a Champions' Song.
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John Teulings |
AJ Gemmell |
Mark Fracasso |
Teuls has had a great season,
And AJ has had a blast,
And Mark has kept on flying,
their senior season has flown by fast.
Once again Sully has had a season,
that has been splendid with checks and hits,
A few more weeks of this,
Then we can get out the clubs and grab the mitts.
Tino, you've been a marvel,
we all are so proud of you,
For what you have been dealing with,
has each one of us praying for you.
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Eric Sullivan |
Steve Sorrentino |
Ryan Berton |
Keep up your fine, hard play,
and do your very best,
You've been a delight to watch,
We all know this year has been a test.
And to Ryan Berton,
Whose season started with woes and ills,
Your goal was a thing of beauty,
it made us all smile and brought us thrills.
CJ, what can we say,
to a kid who gives his all,
You've done what you've needed thus far,
To watch you has been a ball.
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CJ Carignan |
Billy Verneris, George Jerolman & Todd Hall |
Adam Devine |
Keep on flying and playing your game,
We need you each and every time,
to help us carry it home,
once again we know you'll shine.
And to a senior that returned to us,
has there been a kid who brought more spit and shine,
Burtsville tips its cap,
to the Energizer Bunny--Yes, Mr. Adam Devine.
To the coaches we say Thanks,
You've done a wonderful job and more,
to Billy, Todd and George,
Once again you have us knocking at the door.
To Allie, Drew and Jersey,
a tip of the cap to you,
and to our great Jeanne and Doc,
you certainly deserve one too.
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Sean O'Keefe |
Vito Puopolo |
Harley Pretty |
And Thanks to Johnny Sides and Paul Avitable,
for sharpening our skates and much more,
And Thanks to The Penalty Box,
who all season did the chores.
And to Memories That Last a Lifetime,
Your journey starts a new,
Go out and win it boys,
For you Deserve One too.
To Ricky, Jim, Tom, Johnny and Ray,
Thanks for helping our kids,
each and every day.
We're a blest team,
with support all around,
And for that support we thank
everyone in Hamden Town.
To Andy Varga who got some time,
between those nets of metal and twine,
you've done a great job son,
next year will be your time.
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Andy Varga |
Justin MacGregor |
Nicky Amarone |
Vito, Tim, and Harley,
Your time was limited, yes we know,
but stay alert and ready,
You're heading towards the Show.
Tim Lee
Steve and Sean we're very proud of you,
and the job you've done this year,
we'll be ready next season to give you shouts and cheers.
Nicky Amarone & J Mac have been a flying and scoring,
along with cousin Paul,
Keep on skating hard my young men,
FOR WE NEED YOU ONE AND ALL.
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Paul Amarone |
Connor Walsh |
Patrick Lynch |
And who can say enough,
about Patch Lynch who gives his all,
It's what is in your head and heart,
Not if you are ten feet tall.
Connor Walsh has been a thrill,
banging walls and everything in site,
Keep on flying Connor,
We need your energy to carry us through the night.
And to two kids that go together,
to Burtsville the finest in the state,
RJ & Brandon keep it up,
and lead us to your fate.
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RJ Ugolik |
Brandon Dadio |
You're smart and smooth and tough,
combinations hard to find,
And in every big game this year,
You both have starred and You both have shined.
And to a final pair of kids,
who've done it all--all year long,
to PJ & Jim,
Your chemistry has made a beautiful song.
Whether working in the corners,
or out on the circles be,
You've made us feel so proud,
as proud as we can be.
Full Strength, Short-Handed,
It's been a Show for us and you,
Hey boys--One is nice,
Let's go make it Two.
You know we think you are,
two of the state's very best,
So go out and play your game,
with energy, grit and zest.
Take it home me boys,
you have much more left--- of that Burtsville is sure,
Lead us to the Whale,
Your games have been sweet and pure.
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Jim Burt |
PJ Vakos |
Burtsville feels the explosion from the South Windsor game is here,
Go out and play your game,
Don't stop scoring and we'll cheer.
You have it for sure within you,
each and every one,
Go out and show us boys,
and have a TON OF FUN.
So, take it from the start me boys,
Harbor View and Edgartown,
the Cannon Ball Express takes rights,
and leads to the Champions' Crown.
Play each and every shift hard and fast,
This is the present and not the past.
Take it each game and shift--one at a time,
And you will do well, you will shine.
HAMDEN TEAM HUDDLE
TEAM play is what wins it,
EFFORT, GRIT and MORE,
Keep on playing hard,
Let the Green Dragons soar and soar.
Remember our New Canaan,
The Class, The Game and More.
Never Stop a Skating,
No matter what the score.
Sportsmanship & Class
Hamden/New Canaan March 2009
It's what you bring each and every night,
not what you've done in the rearview mirror sight.
So, bring it Wednesay and bring it all night,
Take one step at a time,
And you'll be alright.
BURTSVILLE BELIEVES in each and every one of you,
Just go out and play hard and do what you can do,
Play as a TEAM, play hard and play fast,
And give it your all, from the start to the last.
Cannon Ball Park takes rights all around,
Play each and every shift hard,
BURTSVILLE BELIEVES you'll win the Crown.
But it won't be easy, four tough steps taken one game at a time,
that's the task before you, BURTSVILLE BELIEVES you will make it shine.
So, my fine young men,
Hit the ice hard and skate every step fast,
And do it each and every step,
from the first to the last.
And if you need a mental boost,
To bring you to the top,
Think of Cannon Ball Park,
take a right and you'll never stop.
Jim Dadio's Cannon Ball Park Express Boys--TAKE A RIGHT!
And for inspiration, think of Coach Cliff,
and what he said to you all,
And go out on that ice,
Skate Hard and Have a Ball !!!!
Cliff Carignan--Spiritual Leader to Green Dragons
BURTSVILLE BELIEVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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March 7, 2010
FINN MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And you and Jersey know why I am shouting this to You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
March 4, 2010
BERTON SCORES AND HAMDEN SOARS PAST NDWH 4-3
Devine adds goal and 2 assists, Vakos/Burt score
Amarone Stellar in Net
Sandillo/Taddei Strong on D for Notre Dame
Federico outstanding in net
Zullo, Merola & Travaglino score for NDWH
Ryan Berton Fires and Scores
Ryan Berton scored his first varsity goal in the first period to tie the game 1-1 at the Bennett Rink in West Haven yesterday. Hamden made a stirring comeback in the third period to avenge a loss to the Green Knights earlier in the season. Hamden's win cost NDWH a berth in the State Tournament. It will be the first time in 20 years that NDWH is not in post season play.
"Hey, it's just not right that a team like NDWH--which along with Hamden & Prep--played the toughest schedule in the state is not in the tournament. Come on. Why do teams that play softer schedules get in and the Green Knights get ousted becaue they refuse to play D-II teams," fumed a NDWH Alum who wished not to be identified. ND went up early on a fine goal by Greg Zullo. Zullo and linemates Matt Merola & Joe Travaglino were busy on the ice teaming up for all of ND's points.
Zullo scored at the 11:10 mark of the first assisted by his linemates. Matt Kowlakoski--who almost single-handly beat Hamden the first time this year--was flying all over the ice. Then Ryan Berton scored his first varsity goal on a fine rush at the 4:38 mark of the second, but Zullo netted another at the 7:56 mark with helpers again going to Merola and Travaglino.
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This Line was Flying all Night for NDWH |
Captains Redmond and Francesco Sandillo before 2nd Period |
Captain Mike Taddei fires for NDWH |
Merola then scored at the 11:58 mark to put the Green Knights up 3-1 heading into the third. Meanwhile, Brandon Martone was gutting it out playing hurt, Captains Francesco Sandillo and Mike Taddei were playing smart and tough on defense and goalie Mike Federico was sterling in net. The Green Knights had Hamden leaving the ice talking to themselves at the end of the second.
Captain PJ Vakos talks with Asst. Coach George Jerolman at end of second period
Grit. Strange word. Yet, everyone knows what it is. Last year's Green Dragons? Oh yeah, they had it. This year? The third period would answer that question. As they have all year long, PJ Vakos and Jim Burt led a gritty third period charge that simply was the best--yes, the grittiest--hockey this team has played all year long. They were not alone in the effort.
Grit is Here
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Burt Scores |
Devine Scores as Carignan Soars |
Vakos Scores |
The ill-timed penalties that plagued NDWH all year long reared their ugly head again in the third. At the 3:51 mark Burt made them pay for the first one by gathering in an Adam Devine rebound and slamming it home to make it a 3-2 game. It was Burt's team leading 13th goal of the season and capped off a team leading 25 point regular season for the talented junior forward. Devne was not done as he and Paul Amarone had assists on the goal.
Senior Adam Devine has had a remarkable year. The hard skating forward--two years removed from competitive hockey--put down his golf clubs this fall. All he has done since then has added scoring punch to the Green Dragon line-up that has electrified the crowds and his teammates. His power play blast from the point at the 4:30 mark not only tied the game but had teammates jumping out of the way. It was his 12th goal of the year and leads him into the State Tournament with the promise of more to come.
Mike Federico was putting on a clinic for robbers as the period progressed. He absolutely robbed CJ Carignan twice, Jim Burt, Justin MacGregor--who continues to play at a high level--and Nick Amarone. The score could have been a lot higher if not for the fine work between the pipes by the senior netminder. Meanwhile, at the other end of the ice Ryan Amarone was fending off the hometeam with one fine save after another. Amarone's play over the past couple of weeks has been nothing short of outstanding.
Federico Felonies--the Good Kind!
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CJ Carignan robbed by Mike Federico |
Justin MacGregor robbed by Michael Federico |
Nick Amarone robbed by Mike Federico |
Then, at the 12:22 mark, PJ Vakos capped off a fine senior regular season with his 7th goal and 20th point scoring the game winner as he had done in the season opening win over Darien. Vakos and Burt may want to move to West Haven as both seem to love the results they achieve at the Bennett Rink. Last year Vakos did his Greek Gyro move against the Green Knights scoring on an incredible move to the net. This game he took the more direct approach with the same result. Devine and John Teulings had assists on the goal. Brandon Dadio also had an assist in the game.
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Asst. Coach Peter Alden |
Future Star |
Head Coach Bill Gerosa--NDWH |
Coach Bill Gerosa and the entire NDWH coaching staff and team should be proud of their efforts. They didn't shy away from a tough schedule, they played hard each and every game and they put all their effort on the ice in an attempt to sweep Hamden. And let's not forget, particularly for senior captains Francesco Sandillo and Mike Taddei--two fine kids and players--with parents that define the meaning of class--will never forget beating the Green Dragons at the Lou Astorino Ice Arena earlier in the season for the first time in a decade. Burtsville knows that Coach Gerosa and his staff will come back strong next year as will the ND players.
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Brandon Dadio--one of the Best Defenders in the State |
Ryan Amarone keeps on playing GREAT! |
RJ Ugolik--one of the Best Defenders in the State |
And Chickie, Burtsville sends out all its best wishes to you and your family. You are a fine man and a good friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
All of the more than 2000 pictures Burtsville took at thie game will be uploaded to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com within two weeks of this article. Enjoy!
March 4, 2010
CLEAN GEAR OF CT. TAKES STINCH OUT OF HOCKEY DUDS
There is a miracle taking place in Hamden that is catching on like wild fire. Ed & Laura Richetelli's new business, Clean Gear of Connecticut, is the BEST WAY to take the STINCH out of your child's hockey clothes----and GEAR!
"Our technology not only cleans the clothes and equipment--it sanitizes them," said proud owner Ed Richetelli to BurtsVille after his business cleaned several Hamden Hockey uniforms and pads. "I walked into the locker room one day and thought that Jim Wilson had fumigated the room," said Paul Avitable. "Then someone told me the kids had their stuff done at Ed's shop and I was blown away."
The Machine That Cleans & Sanitizes
Clean Gear does a lot more than hockey equipment and uniforms. It can do all sorts of sports equipment and clothes from lacrosse, baseball, motocross and umpire gear--and more. Ugg Boots, smoke damaged goods, leather, suede, pillows, horse gear, water damaged items...you name it and Clean Gear can clean it and sanitize it. The Esporta Wash System it employs works miracles with fungus, sweat, mold and mildew.
"We're excited to have opened. The response has been incredible. We cover the entire state. We have teams and leagues coming to us and with concern about health issues and staph infections spreading I would think anyone involved in sports would want to take advantage of this economical and safe way to clean and sanitize almost anything," proudly stated Ed. "And just think for all you mothers out there with youngsters in sports, no more smelly clothes in the garage or basement. You will actually be able to close your car windows in the winter on the ride home from the rink because the equipment won't smell," added Laura with fine motherly advice.
Clean Gear of Connecticut opens October 2009
There is no one's opinion that Burtsville respects more than that of Mrs. Burtsville. Here is her take on Clean Gear of Connecticut, "I could not believe it. I honestly thought the equipment smelled and seemed like new after it was done at Clean Gear. I would do it again and again. I wish they were here when our boy was in Youth Hockey. Run--don't walk--to Clean Gear!"
Clean Gear of Connecticut. It's the wave of the future and the future is now. Please go to its website at www.cleangearofct.com for more information. If you use their product, you will not be disappointed.
March 4, 2010
LADY GREEN DRAGONS CAP OFF WONDERFUL YEAR
Lone Senior Captain LeeAnn Esposito leads youngsters to 15-4-3 Record
Girls get ready to take ice v. Darien
The Hamden Girl's Team had an outstanding season going undefeated in their league play. The young squad made it to the finals of their League Championship only to bow to a strong Simsbury squad. The State Playoffs ended on a disappointing note at home in a 2-1 loss to powerful Darien. All in all the team had a great season with Esposito supplying strong leadership.
"LeeAnn is a great hockey player but a better person. The leadership she provided this team could not have been better," raved Head Coach Val Chamberlain. "She was an inspiration to her teammates on and off the ice. She will be missed by her teammates and the entire coaching staff. She is one fine kid who has her head on straight and I am certain she will be successful in whatever she chooses to do".
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Emily Orser turns the corner on Defense |
Lauren Grant makes the Save |
Hamden almost scores |
The team is young. It has a strong nucleus coming back next year. Coach Chamberlain and Asst. Coach Joe Weber are ably assisted by Volunteer Coaches Jack Killoy, Mike Callan and Mark D'Antonio. The Lady Dragons had balanced scoring with 6 forwards averaging at least a point per game. The Team Defense and Goal Tending were outstanding all year long.
We Support the Lady Dragons
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Boys' Team Members |
Students |
Best AD & Administration in the State |
Look for the team to be solid next year and to compete for the League and State Title. The team members are Lauren Grant, Jenna Giuletti, Taylor Teulings, Amanda DelCervo, Savanna Reilly, Nicole Pierne, Jenny Morgan, Shannon Callan, LeeAnn Esposito, Katie Gontarski, Emily Orser, Colleen Murphy, Rachel Ugolik, and Britne Sargolini.
February 28, 2010
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Senior Family Members |
Senior Cake |
Seniors--It's been a pleasure boys!!! |
SENIOR NIGHT WIN FOR GREEN DRAGONS
HAMDEN 5 ND FAIRFIELD 2
RYAN AMARONE SPARKLES IN NET FOR GREEN DRAGONS
DEVINE & CARIGNAN NET TWO GOALS EACH
MACGREGOR OUTSTANDING WITH GOAL & ASSIST
BERTON, NICK AMARONE(2) & TEULINGS(2) GET HELPERS
SHUGRUE SOLID IN NET FOR ND
CANFAROTTA & HOTCHKISS SCORE FOR LANCERS
Ryan Amarone played his best game of the year in net and Hamden once again spread out the offense to beat a tough Lancer team Saturday at Hamden 5-2. Adam Devine worked his magic once again scoring two quick goals in the second to put Hamden up for good. Justin MacGregor continues his fine play as the big winger added a goal and an assist. And CJ Carignan netted two goals for Hamden as the talented junior gets primed for the post-season.
"Ryan looks good. He is capable of playing that way every game. And if he does, it bodes well for Hamden," said sandlot legend, Terry Loukidies. Amarone made 37 saves many of which were highlight film material. The kid just keeps getting better and to get hot at this time of the season is great for the team.
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Doc & Mary--Smiles Tell it All |
Coach Mark supplies best seat in the house |
Tino gets stick up his nose |
Let's not forget the magic that Martha's Vineyard brought this team last year. Do not my young men underestimate the Magic of Cannon Ball Park. The magic of the Harbor View Hotel. The Magic of the Edgartown Light House. It may seem mystical but do you think there is a Guardian Angel over Ryan's shoulder and that of the team. If not, check out who is over his shoulder at the game Saturday and if that is not an omen of good fortune for this young man and team, Burtsville doesn't know what is. More on this as the tournament begins....
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Ryan Amarone does it again |
Avitable Angel Dust--available only in Hamden |
Ryan makes unbelievable save |
Notre Dame took an early lead on a Dave Canfarotta goal at the 3:28 mark of the first assisted by Tyler Schmarr. The Green Dragons have been down before this year and playing from behind doesn't seem to bother them. The team does not panic and just keeps on playing its game. Hamden can skate and bang as well or better than any team in the state. Just bring your A Game boys each and every shift of each and every game from here on out and you will see what you can accomplish.
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Bill Rhone Batting Lessons come in handy for J Mac |
Eric Shugrue makes incredible save |
Chris Pond fires shot toward net |
Justin MacGregor continued his fine play and knotted the score the 12:37 mark of the first. The big winger was assisted by CJ Carignan and Nick Amarone. MacGregor came bursting down the middle beating two defensemen on a fine pass and rifled a shot past the ND goalie to the delight of the crowd.
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Adam Fires and Scores |
J Mac fires & Scores |
CJ Fires and Scores |
Adam Devine then scored two goals in less than 30 seconds in the second period and CJ Carignan salted it away with two goals as the Green Dragons get ready for their regular season finale this Wednesday at 4:00 P.M. against NDWH at the Bennett Rink in West Haven.
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The Regan Boys |
The Snack Bar Gals |
The "H" Men |
It was great to win this game but let's take a moment to Thank our Seniors and their families. We wish them nothing but the best in the future. It can be hard to have to end one phase of you life to begin a new one but just like the change in seasons that's the cycle that keeps repeating over and over again. Good Luck Boys, Burtsville has had a ball writing about you and taking your pictures and it sure has been fun watching you play since you were little pups. Enjoy!!!
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AJ's Beauties |
Sorrentino Beauties |
Hamden High School Beauties |
Burtsville is proud to announce that since beginning this site in December 2008 we will have had over 3,000,000 hits on it by the time this season is over. This February alone we will exceed 700,000 hits. It has been a blast doing this and keep those hits coming. It is also our pleasure to have up over 30,000 pictures on our Share Site for you to enjoy. If you haven't been to the Share Site where we upload all the pictures we take at games--usually within two weeks of the game article appearing--please do so. It is www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com. Shutterfly has many picture books, etc. that they can produce for you at reasonable prcies should you so desire.
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I Look Good! |
We Look Better!! |
I Look the Best!!! |
February 25, 2010
Hamden 1 Fairfield Prep 4
Marshall--The Rink Stud
Hamden fought a good battle this second time around against Prep but lost 4-1. Derric White returned for Prep and it was nice to see this fine player and classy young man back on the ice for his team. It was his younger brother, David White, and Connor Peterson, AJ Unker & Bryan Puffer doing the scoring for Prep. Nick Amarone got one back for Hamden late in the game as the visitors did not stop working.
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Connor Peterson Scores |
Spencer Takes a Sip |
David White Scores |
Burtsville always loves going to the Wonderland of Ice because you get to see two of the nicest guys in hockey in the State of Connecticut. Michael Ferguson and John Ferguson. It brought a tear to my eye and a smile to my face to see 14 year old Liam at the rink. The Ferguson Boys ran the BEST golf tournament ever for years at Race Brook CC to benefit The Travis Roy Foundation. Liam was two years old when I had the pleasure of first meeting him and if his wonderful grandmother Eileen were alive today she would be one proud woman as she always was and always will be in the hearts of those of us lucky enough to have known her.
CLASS ACTS--The Ferguson Family
My hat is off to John and Michael and Lisa and the entire families who have spent so much of their time to help others. Well done!
Next up for the Green Dragons are the ND's--Fairfield this weekend and NDWH to end the season next Wednesday.
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Nick Amarone flies up the ice |
Burtsville with New Canaan Family Members |
RJ Ugolik clears puck |
Burtsville would llike to say hello to Ms. White, Ms. Peterson and Mr. Sodokoff who we had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with before the game. It was a pleasure folks. And Ms. White got her wish, a short article in Burtsville!
Larry is a Lucky Boy
February 21, 2010
BURT SCORES SHORT-HANDED HAT TRICK PLUS ONE AS
GREEN DRAGONS BEAT BLUE DEVILS 5-2
Sorrentino nets first goal of the year, Vakos adds three assists
MacGregor, Carignan, Walsh & Teulings(2) get helpers
It's all about Team
Jim Burt had a dream game Saturday before a packed house at the Lou Astorino Ice Arena. Burt scored four goals--including three short-handed goals--to lead the Green Dragons to victory. Burt was not alone in his efforts as his teammates PJ Vakos added three assists, Steve Sorrentino scored his first goal of the year and Justin MacGregor, Connor Walsh, CJ Carignan & John Teulings (2) added with helpers.
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Steve Sorrentino Slap Shot Goal |
Justin MacGregor's Best Game of the Year |
Sorrentino Shot-- Puck in Net |
Burt, Vakos and Adam Devine came into the game among the leaders in scoring in the State & the SCC Divison I. Burt moved up to being tied for the 9th spot in scoring in Division I in the State with three of the Blue Devils in today's game ahead of him. Vakos is 25th in Division I scoring in the State with arch rivals East Haven and West Haven having a total of nine players ahead of him.
Burt is 4th and Devine 7th in goal scoring in the SCC Division I race with two Blue Devils ahead of each of them.Vakos and Burt are 10th in the SCC Division I in assists wtih 8 players from West Haven and East Haven besting them. Burt is ranked 4th in scoring in the SCC Division I race with three Blue Devils ahead of him while Vakos is ranked 14th with 9 players from East Haven and West Haven ahead of him.
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AJ Gemmell says hello to a friend |
Jim Burt Scores Goal #1 |
RJ Ugolik takes a rest |
"This is a strong and talented West Haven team Hamden beat today, said Joe Santilli after the game. "Make no mistake about it. This was not a weak team Hamden just beat. It was old-fashioned District League Hockey. It was a throw-back game. Old School. Hamden basically made a statement in this game. You are not coming into our barn and beating us."
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AJ Esposito lets rip a Slap Shot Goal Beauty |
Best Looking Puck Boy in America |
Lou Bisighini celebrates goal |
West Haven opened the scoring on a hard-working goal by talented forward Lou Bisighini. It was assisted by AJ Esposito at the 4:09 mark of the first. Ryan Amarone had a great bounce back game from the Winchester game Hamden had played the day before. In fact, the entire team bounced back from one of their worse performances of the year. Playing back to back games and showing what they showed against one of the best teams in the state should give the Green Dragons confidence heading into the State Tournament with one tough game following closely after another.
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West Haven Beauties before game |
CJ Carignan is greeted by friends at net |
Hamden Beauty checks reflection in glass |
Burt scored his first goal at the 8:28 mark of the second. PJ Vakos had fed the puck to CJ Carignan who made a fine pass to a streaking Burt steaming up the middle of the ice. Burt split the two defenders and shot a nice backhander that went over goalie JP Withington's glove and knotted the score at 1-1.
The first period ended 1-1. It had been a well played clean game up to that point, but the Alumni Game that had been held by these two arch-rivals the night before in honor of two great coaches--Artie Crouse of West Haven and Lou Astorino of Hamden--must have left some good old District League Magic Dust in the Locker Rooms, because the second period reminded one of the rough and tumble games of the seventies.
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Eric Sullivan has man covered |
Brandon Dadio delivers another crunching check |
Connor Walsh Shot clangs off CrossBar--see puck on bar |
Chippy would be one word to describe the play between the squads as the second period got underway. What remained of the hockey were two fine goal tenders putting on a clinic of save after save and the tandem of Burt & Vakos--who had scored nine points in the last game between these two teams--including two short-handed goals--about to drop a Deja Vu on the visitors.
It had been reported earlier in the year that these two players make up one of the best penalty killing units in the state. They may very well be the most dangerous. At the 8:35 mark of the second John Teulings threw the puck up the sideboards while Hamden was down a man. There was no need for discussion. Burt saw Vakos on the boards with a Blue Devil player. Burt took off up the middle of the ice. Vakos won the battle for the puck, fed Burt and the fast skating winger beat the Blue Devil goalie with a nice move for a short-handed goal. Vakos and Teulings had assists on the goal.
Jim Burt's Short-Handed Hat Trick
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Short-Handed Goal #1 |
Short-Handed Goal #3 Celebration |
Short-Handed Goal #2 |
"That was a beautfiul move," said West Yarmouth Tigers GM Johnny Sides. "It was just flat out beautiful. What a goal!" Less than three minutes later it was Emeril Agassi time as in "Take it up a Notch." There are plays during games that you watch and admire. There are players on teams that you watch and admire. It has been a privilege to watch the many fine players in the State of Connecticut and elsewhere--and that includes many of this year's talented players on the West Haven squad.
And then, there is PJ Vakos. The kid never stops. He is trance-like in games. There is nothing he won't do to win a battle, gain control of the puck and is as unselfish a player as there is in the state. And Vakos hunted down the puck and knocked it free from a West Haven player less than three minutes after Burt's first short-handed goal. Once again, Burt sensing a Vakos miracle, streaked down the middle of the ice. Vakos dove and stretched out his stick as far as it could go to punch a pass to the big winger just inside the Blue Devil Zone and Burt once again put it home with a patient move that left the home crowd howling.
"The Play. Let's just call it from now on "The Play", said longtime Hamden Hockey observer Dave Castaldi. "Oh my Gosh. Vakos made it happen and Burt carried it home with patience and flair. Two short-handed goals back-to-back---unreal! Those two kids in my book are two of the best players in the state! They never stop. They are unselfish. And they come up big in big games."
PJ Vakos & Jim Burt
It wasn't over. Burt had his hat-trick but a Joe Morrell coached team never quits. The West Haven squad has not won 15 games this year by accident. It is a talented team with fine skaters, great coaches, and determined competitors. They gathered themselves and came right back at Hamden. The score ended 3-1 after the second period with West Haven opening the third period up with a Power Play.
JP Withington is one fine goalie for West Haven. Ryan Amarone is one fine goalie for Hamden. Both had over 31 saves in the game and it was Amarone being tested at the start of the third. The Blue Devils threw everything they could at him but he remained cool under pressure and didn't let anything by him.
Then at the 5:55 mark Hamden defenseman Steve Sorrentino--who has had an outstanding season-- fired a slap shot from the point that Withington never saw. Justin MacGregor--who had a great team game--screened the West Haven goalie and the puck found the back of the net. Connor Walsh--who ealier in the game had been set up by MacGregor with a fine, soft pass and hit the crossbar-- had an assist on the goal as did MacGregor.
Hamden's team defense was having another good game. AJ Gemmell was applying the muscle down low, Eric Sullivan simply had his best game of the year on the blue line with solid interior defense, Teulings had two assists and RJ Ugolik and Brandon Dadio continued to show why they are considered one of the best defensive tandems in the state.
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Ryan Amarone makes another fine save for Hamden |
Ryan Amarone--Cool Under Pressure |
Pat Lynch with great defensive awareness clears puck |
Paul Amarone, Adam Devine, Nick Amarone and Pat Lynch had solid games for Hamden with several scoring chances being created by each of them and solid defensive help down low. CJ Carignan continues to make his line go adding yet another assist to his credit. Walsh was flying all over, Ryan Berton and Mark Fracasso supplied energy and grit and Justin MacGregor had his best game of the year. It was nice to see Walsh get an assist after busting his butt every time he hits the ice. He hit the corssbar today and once one goal goes in the floodgates will open for this dynamo who has added a ton of energy to this year's squad.
Vito Puopolo and Tim Lee almost hooked up for a goal late in the game and most certainly made the Hamden team realize its future is in good hands with the two of them adding positive minutes along with Harley Pretty and Sean O'Keefe.
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Ray, Dad & Friend |
Timmy Lee fires one on net |
Jay, Tilli, & Bo |
The teams continued to battle and at the 11:22 mark AJ Esposito let go with a beautiful slap shot of his own to make it a 4-2 game. Adam Mink picked up an assist on the goal. The talented duo of Tim Baylis and John Ascenzia never stopped working for the visiting Blue Devils but Amarone was up to the challenge.
Then Hamden's best offensive weapon came into play once again. The home team found itself down a man--short-handed--with a little over two minutes to play. West Haven pulled their goalie to have a 6 on 4 advantage. Co-Captain Vakos was in the Penalty Box and Burt was on the ice looking lost without his penalty killing brother.
Hamden took control of the puck deep in its right corner as Co-Captain John Teulings fired it up the boards to Burt. The junior winger made one move inside his blue line and lofted a soft backhander that drifted gently down the ice and into the empty net for his third short-handed goal and his fourth goal of the game. It was @ the 12:32 mark and the Green Dragons were up for good at 5-2.
"I have never seen one player in one game score three short-handed goals, said Sides. "Never--at any level. The kid just decided that Hamden was not going to be beat today. It was an awesome game for the team and a fantastic game for an honest player, who is a talented, hard working team player and just one fine kid. I couldn't be happier for him."
Coach George DeMaio joined the Hamden Penalty Box for a Hummel Hot Dog before the game. The game of high school hockey in Connecticut is lucky to have the Coach and ESPN1300 Radio cover our games and give our kids such exposure. The Coach's interviews on WELI 960 Radio and his call of the games is a treasure to behold. Thanks Coach and keep up the fine work.
COACH GEORGE DEMAIO AND FRIENDS
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Baseball Rivals--George Jerolman & Coach George DeMaio |
Coaches John A., Joe M. and Mike D. join The Coach |
Ed Pierne & Coach George DeMaio |
Actually, the state of high school hockey coverage is blest to also have Don Boyle of Sportingnewsct.com, Dan Nowak of the New Haven Register and Matt Conyers of the Hartford Courant who runs the best Blog in the State for High School Hockey. Mike Madeira does a great job at the Register & Post Chronicle. The FCIA Blog along with the Register Blog are also top notch.
And if it is the state of hockey you want to read about, check out MaxPreps and HockeyBarn. The coverage that these two sites provide is incredible. MaxPreps is the place to go for stats, pictures, and information. HockeyBarn will give you that and more with its interesting and informative commentary, Players of the Month in every Division and lively debates on its internet site.
And don't forget to keep up with HNIB Newspaper that covers high school and prep hockey throughout New England and beyond.
And, if I am permitted a fatherly moment in this forum of mine that I enjoy doing for all, Jimbo Great Game. Enjoy it all and have a ball!
Up next for Hamden is Number One Ranked Fairfield Prep. The game will be held this Wednesday at 6:00 P.M. at the Wonderland of Ice in Bridgeport. Burtsville is glad to see that Derric White--one of top players in the state--is back playing with Prep after having been out several weeks with a shoulder injury. A great player and a young man with class. It will be a pleasure to see him on the ice again.
All the pictures from this game will be uploaded within two weeks of this article to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com.
Enjoy!
February 19, 2010
WINCHESTER WALLOPS HAMDEN 5-0
Joe, Andy & Rich-Official Greeters
There is no pretty way to paint Hamden's game v. the Winchester Sachems in Woburn Friday afternoon. The Green Dragons got outplayed by the Bay State Power House and here's wishing the Winchester team the best of luck in the state tournament and a spot in the Super Eight. Perhaps the knowledge of beating one of the best teams in New England will add confidence to this fine team.
Our friend, Lou Cusano often remarks, "It's all good in BurtsVille". No matter what may happen in a game, no matter the score, no matter the way the team played, BurtsVille tries to take the positive spin. And so, while acknowleding the thrashing pardon us if we diverge just a tad and comment on the people we met and how we were treated from the moment we walked into the Ned O'Brien Rink until we left.
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Mike & Ed keep Andy & Joe in check |
Seward Family and Beautiful Anthem Singer |
Brother "Pixs Man" Dan with Bride |
Sports and High School Hockey is a wonderful way to help youngsters learn about life. Burtsville learned and is still learing many life lessons through sports. Sports mirrors life. Sometimes you have good days and sometimes you have bad days--and sometimes you even get beat on your good days. But no matter what, no matter how hard you battle on the ice, the way you act off the ice tells you more about what you have learned and how you will be judged.
Class. Our friends from New Canaan know all about it. So do many of our other opponents. And folks, for those of us lucky enough to go watch our boys get road-wearied pumelled yesterday, let me tell you about the Woburn Rink and the Winchester parents, fans, coaches and players---Class in a Big Way.
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TJ Hickey Goal celebration |
Winchester Team--Senior Night |
Colin Edwards Goal |
And so, not to slight the fine play of the players or the goals made by TJ Hickey, Sam Novicki, Joe Cianciarulo, Colin Edwards and Nick Ducharme or the assists garnered by Hickey, Edwards, Ducharme, Mark Martignetti and Ben Lawrence and the fine goal tending by Mike Messuri, we'd like to talk about Andy and Ed and Mike and Joe and the rest of the folks that made this shellacking a lttle more tolerable.
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Wooster Boys Plus--Cometh |
Green Dragons were chasing the Sachems all game |
Bench & Coahes |
Why good old Andy and Joe greeted us at the door reminding us of playing Hamden in the 1955 New England Tournament. Mike and Ed could not have been more gracious running the rink and Coach John Messuri and his staff were all smiles as they greeted us and I'm quite certain those smiles probably were a bit bigger in the locker room after the game. And rightfully so! The Scorekeeper was as helpful as they come. We appreciated it all--except the on ice treatment, of course!
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RJ Ugolik Shoots |
Jim Burt Shoots |
PJ Vakos Shoots |
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Tim Lee hustles on the ice |
Connor Walsh always in motion heads up ice |
Eric Sullivan flies up ice |
But, the smiles never stopped. Parents from the Sewards to Brother Dan who takes pictures for the Winchester squad. And anyone who takes pictures of their team is all right with BurtsVille! Jim the Zamboni driver has to be okay as he dates a young woman living in Hamden and even though Charlie the Cop is from Woburn the Winchester folks are glad he's there.
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BurtVille's favorite Woburn Cop-Charlie |
Voted Best Looking Asst. Coach in New England 2010 |
Wooster Studs |
And as proud of an afternoon as it was for Senior Night for the fine Winchester players, no one was more prouder of her family--or prettier in the rink--than Joe and Mark Matignetti's little sis. As she enjoyed a popsicle bought by her beautiful mom and took a picture with Hamden's own Christian Ugolik, she let Burtsville know about her brothers on the ice and how we'd have to take eight pictures if we were to capture the whole Matignetti family on film!
Beautiful & Handsome--and proud of their respective sibblings
And let's give a tip of the cap to the National Anthem singer whose voice was incredible. And finally, a confession from the Green Dragons loyal supporter, Johnny Sides. Johnny was disappointed in the game not only because of the loss but because the officiating was done in such a fair manner. And it was. It was just that Johnny's cousin was one of the officials and he thought the visitiors would get more calls. Check out the family resemblance and height qualifications in the pictures that follow.
LOOK-A-LIKES HAVE TO BE RELATED? PERHAPS PARENTS MET AT 1955 NEW ENGLANDS???
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Johnny Sides game face |
Ref's game face looks like Sides. Cousins? |
While there may be a debate about whether or not Johnny and the Ref are related, one man wandering around the rink Friday afternoon was Paul Avitable. Highly conflicted, Avitable has for weeks wondered whether he is known as Anthony's father, Marion's husband or just the owner and operator of Able Irrigation. Now all we have to do is get his other two kids in the mix and he'll really be messed up!!!
Paul Avitable searches far & wide for identity
All the pictures taken by BurtsVille--over 1,000-will be uploaded within two weeks of this article to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com for your viewing pleasure. Please feel free to use them in any way you'd like. Enjoy!
February 17, 2010
HAMDEN 3 XAVIER 2
DEVINE NETS TWO GOALS, CARIGNAN TWO HELPERS
PAUL AMARONE TOSSES IN GOAL
WALSH/BUCHAS SCORE FOR FALCONS
The Hamden Green Dragons and the Xavier Falcons played tournament style hockey on Monday at Wesleyan. The Xavier squad came out hot and furious as talented winger Dan Walsh scored not a minute into the game. He was assisted by Brian Stuckman.
Xavier was all over the Hamden team and peppered goalie Ryan Amarone with shot after shot. The Hamden team defense held their own led by the tandem of Brandon Dadio and RJ Ugolik two of the finest young defensemen in the state.
While Hamden seemed to even out the ice midway through the first, Xavier goalie Dylan Baker was having another fine game against the visiting team. Baker stopped everything that came his way and the period ended with Xavier up 1-0.
"It looks to me as if Hamden is starting to even out the ice," said Springfield Vipers GM Kevin Murphy. "Xavier dominated early but Hamden is now turning the tables on them."
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Team Spiritual Leader Cliff C.likes what he sees |
Connor Walsh sacrifices body for Team |
Eric Sullivan continues to fly for Hamden |
The second period started with a skate sharpening controversy unknown to many but it didn't seem to affect anyone on the ice. Adam Devine kept up his scoring touch by pouring in two goals in the span of less than two minutes to put Hamden up 2-1. John Teulings had an assist on one goal and CJ Carignan had an assist on both.
"Carignan has really been moving that puck well," said Marion Avitable's husband Paul. "That line is so unselfish and it seems to me that the entire team is playing that way as well. It bodes well for the rest of year."
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Adam Devine High Steps It after Goal #1 |
Brandon D. & RJ Ugolik--two of the best around |
Ray Devine enjoys the action |
Ryan Amarone was having another strong game in net for Hamden. He stopped several fine shots including a breakaway by Ralph DiFonzo midway through the second. DiFonzo and fellow senior Frank Maturo have ties to Hamden as both were former HYHA super stars before playing at the high school level. Maturo is such a smooth skater that he earned the nickname "Sweetness" in his youth.
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Ralph D. & Frank "Sweetness" Maturo |
Ryan Amarone robs Ralph DiFonzo |
Ralph, Kristen & Mary Jane |
Paul Amarone who has been playing his best hockey of the year scored at the 1:52 mark of the third to put Hamden up 3-1. He was assisted by Brandon Dadio and Nick Amarone. Xavier made it real interesting as Trevor Buchas scored a short-handed goal at the 5:23 mark unassisted to pull the home team within one.
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Dan Walsh celebrates beautiful goal |
Paul Amarone at the left circle shoots & scores |
Trevor B. Short-Handed Goal Celebration |
"What a pretty goal that was," said Flanders Cranberry Pond Legend, Charlie Action from East Hampton. "The kid took the puck right from the Hamden player and made a move so fine on the goaltender that he almost even took my hat off my head. And that is quite a move!"
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Springfield Honies |
Bell Town Legend Charlie Action enjoys the game |
Hamen Fans |
While Amarone was fantastic, the best save of the game may have been by winger Connor Walsh. The Hamden Team Defense has been playing well with the wingers and centers coming down low to cover their men or to clear the puck. Walsh cleared a puck heading for the end zone late in the third period that would've tied the score. It was the type of heads-up, team first, hustling play the kid has been making all year.
Hamden has been spreading its scoring around as of late and has been doing all the little things right including winning most of their face-offs and making plays like Walshie did to help win the Xavier game.
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Walsh (helmet & stick just visible)-- Big Clear & Save |
Vakos & Teuls share --Big Captains' Smile |
Burt --Big Face-Off Win at Game's End |
It is a blessing to see these kids play hockey. We are lucky to be able to do so. We as parents and all of us around the state of Connecticut should thank our lucky stars every time we get the chance to watch our kids perform at such a high level. At any level--whether it be hockey, a school play or some recital that our son or daughter performs.
It can be taken away from you in a moment. All of us know someone who has had tragedy befall them. Each of us knows all too well stories about that knock on the door in the middle of the night and the sight of a police officer coming up your steps. BurtsVille had that fright the night after the Xavier game. Teenagers at a sleep over. It doesn't matter how responsible the kids are. It doesn't matter that you know they are at a house where the parents are home and are watchful. It still can happen.
You hear the dog bark at 2:30 AM and you hear voices at your door. Did your seventeen year old decide to come home in the middle of the night? My mind swirled with the worst thoughts imaginable as I opened the door. Two young officers, snow falling, police cars with lights flashing. And then he told me that someone had been breaking into cars in the neighbordhood and that they had seen footprints in the snow leading to my car. He showed me an Ipod and sunglasses and asked if they were mine.
All I wanted to do was hug him! Then I snapped to and realized that I had on those old boxer shorts that aren't necessarily put togehter too well anymore and I resisted the temptation for the hug. But I did laugh. I laughed and told them that they had just given me the greatest news in the world--that my car had been broken into and that someone may have taken a pair of sunglasses or an ipod. I could've cared less if they had stolen the car itself.
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Gramps & Jesse |
Steven Sorrentino-Minister of Defense |
Jesse & Doc |
So, give that kid of yours a hug. Right now. Pat them on the back and tell them to go play together as a team. Let them have fun and compete to the best of their ability. And, let them learn to be happy if someone else performs at a high level. Don't worry about goals & assists. It's what good teamwork is all about. It is what leadership is all about. It is what life is all about. And whatever you do, don't let another opportunity pass without you telling your kid you love them. It is the greatest gift of all.
All of the pictures taken at this game will be uploaded to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com within two weeks of this article. Pictures from our first game with Xavier are already up on that site. Please take the time to go see them and enjoy pictures of your children in action. Enjoy!
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Xavier Fans cheer on Team |
AJ Gemmell salts away another fine game |
Team Watches final Face-Off |
Please check out the YouTube Video intereview of Dan Cusano and Ned Burt done by HockeyBarn.com at the Xavier Game. It is at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Sb70zhMzqk. Or by going to youtube and punching in Hamden Hockey and hitting video. Enjoy!
February 17, 2010
HAMDEN PLAYERS AMONG LEADERS IN SCC DIVISION I & STATE SCORING***
(THROUGH 2.17.10 XAVIER GAME)
While East Haven and West Haven dominate the top spots in scoring in the SCC Division I per MaxPreps, Hamden boasts several players who have made the charts in this Division and Statewide among Division I schools. Adam Devine is 4th in goals in the SCC Division I and Jim Burt is in the 5th spot. They are bested by two Blue Devils and players from Fairfield Prep.
Burt is ranked 8th in assists behind six players from WH & EH and 1 from Prep while PJ Vakos is ranked 15th behind 9 WH & EH players and others. Burt is 5th in the SCC Divison I Scoring Race behind four players from EH & WH and Vakos is ranked 15th with eight EH & WH players ahead of him.
Statewide among Division I Players, Burt is ranked 11th in scoring ranking 22nd in goals and 16th in assists while Devine is ranked 11th in goal scoring.
(***UNOFFICIAL TABULATION OF MAXPREPS INFO)
February 15, 2010
BURTSVILLE CONGRATULATES THE INDOOR TRACK TEAM
ON WINNING THE CLASS LL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP!!!!
Chris Fitzsimmons--All World Track Ahtlete
February 15, 2010
HAMDEN v. WEST HAVEN ALUMNI GAME THIS FRIDAY AT LOU ASTORINO RINK
The Hamden High v. West Haven High Alumni Hockey Game will be held this Friday Night at the Lou Astorino Rink in Hamden. The game pits stars from yesteryear from these two great teams. The festivities begin at 7:00 PM. Tickets are on sale at the door. Come and enjoy a great evening.
Listen to details about the game and the rivalry throughout the years on WELI Coach DeMaio's Show which aired Saturday, February 13th. It is an interview with Phil Madden WHHS 1978 and Bob Callahan HHS 1972.
Enjoy!
BURTSVILLE STATS 2009-2010 SEASON***
(after 18 games including the NDFfld game 2.27.10 game)
NAME GOALS ASSISTS TOTAL POINTS
Andy Varga
Ryan Amarone
Sean O'Keefe
Harley Pretty
Tim Lee 1A 1 PT.
Vito Puopolo
Eric Sullivan 2A 2 PT.
AJ Gemmell 1A 1 PT.
Mark Fracasso 1A 1 PT.
Ryan Berton 1G 2A 3 PT.
Connor Walsh 1G 5 A 6 PTS.
Steve Sorrentino 1G 2A 3 PTS.
Brandon Dadio 1G 5A 6 PTS.
RJ Ugolik 2G 5A 7 PTS.
John Teulings 2G 14A 16 PTS.
Justin MacGregor 3G 9A 12 PTS.
Nick Amarone 7G 5A 12 PTS.
Pat Lynch 3G 2A 5 PTS.
Adam Devine 12G 6A 18 PTS.
Paul Amarone 4G 10A 14 PTS.
CJ Carignan 6G 9A 15 PTS.
PJ Vakos 7G 13A 20 PTS.
Jim Burt 13G 12A 25 PTS.
***(BurtsVille Stats are unofficial. If you think you see any errors, please let me know.)
February 14, 2010
HAMDEN AMARONES SOUTH WINDSOR 7-3
SEVEN PLAYERS SCORE GOALS
BENSON, PEASE, GIONFRIDDO,DUNN & WALDISEN LEAD SW
Paul Amarone was looking for teammates all day long
AMARONE BOYS HAVE QUITE THE DAY!
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Ryan Amarone has another stellar day in net |
Paul Amarone cruises with Three Point Game |
Nick Amarone Scores his 6th Goal of the Year |
Paul Amarone kept up his fine play dishing out passes like Wayne Gretzky as the Amarone family scored four points and made 25 saves on 26 shots as Hamden beat a strong South Windsor team Saturday at the Lou Astorino Ice Arena. Amarone set up linemate Pat Lynch, cousin, Nick Amarone and stellar defenseman, RJ Ugolik for goals for the Green Dragons. Ryan Amarone played in net for Hamden before yielding for some much deserved rest in the third period.
" I think this is a huge game for Hamden," Joe Santilli offered before the game. "South Windsor is one of the top teams in the state and playing the best they have all year. They just completely dominated West Haven and to say they are in the mix for a spot at Yale is not far-fetched. If Hamden beats them, I believe it can catapault Hamden to where they ended last year," added the New Haven educator.
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South Windsor Beauties |
Kyle Benson--one of the best in the State--fires on net |
South Windsor Fans Cheer on Team |
Hamden came out strong and at the 14:29 mark of the first John Teulings took a slap shot that PJ Vakos gathered in at the crease and just missed banging it home. CJ Carignan and Jim Burt were lurking close by and Burt came rushing in to pop home his 8th goal of the year. The teams then battled back and forth with Ryan Amarone and his counterpart from South Windsor, Christian Marchi making one fine save after another.
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Steve Sorrentino clears the puck |
Gracie Hall goes high in air for frisbee |
AJ Gemmell lets it rip with Paul A. & J Mac at net |
The Second Period saw South Windsor come on hard and fast. The visiting team had great fan support and had Kyle Benson and gang flyng all over the ice. Tommy Pease scored a beauty from Benson at the 6:24 mark to knot up the score. It was 1-1. All season long Burtsville has been predicting that this Hamden team has enormous talent and offensive potential that has not yet been seen. This is no longer the case.
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Paul A. & J Mac flying all game long |
Jim Burt checks stick blade |
Teuls lets it rip--Johhny had big 3 assist game for team |
Adam Devine scored at the 10:45 mark to start a Hamden onslaught of six straight goals that would not end until the 10:01 mark of the third. Burt and Teulings had assists on Devine's 7th of the year. The second period ended 2-1 Hamden. At the start of the Third Period CJ Carignan took a pass from Steve Sorrentino and John Teulings, scampered down the right side of the ice and made an incredible goal from an odd angle to put the Green Dragons up 3-1. It was his fourth of the season.
" I don't know how the kid scored that one, " said Branford Ice Maven Paul Flinter. "He just squeezed it between the net and the goalie's knee. He had no room to spare. What a goal!"
GOALS GALORE
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Nick Amarone-slaps it home |
Pat Lynch-back-handed beauty |
CJ Carignan-dead-eye lefty |
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RJ Ugolik--from the point |
Adam Devine--from the goal line |
Jim Burt-pops it from the front |
Forty-five seconds later Pat Lynch had made it 4-1 on a beauty of a pass from Paul Amarone. Connor Walsh had another strong, physcal game for this line and almost had a couple of goals. His time is coming as he never stops working. The teams fought back and forth. Benson almost had one as did Captain Kevin Aucoin but both were stopped by the Hamden netminder. Kyle Foley was playing tough defense with his mates but the Hamden squad was relentless.
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Brandon Dadio puts on the brakes |
Andy Varga & Co. defend their turf |
Connor Walsh fires a shot on goal |
At the 5:03 mark one of the best short-handed tandems in the state hooked up for a highlight reel goal that capped the day for the Green Dragons. PJ Vakos stole the puck deep in his zone against the boards and fed a pass off the boards to the streaking Jim Burt. Burt's move around the South Windsor defenseman was foiled on a fine play by Tommy Pease. Burt took the puck down low behind the net and fought off three South Windsor defenseman as Vakos joined the play. The feisty Greek Dynamo grabbed the puck off Burt's stick and headed behind the goal line towards the left circle. He stopped, circled back and got checked off the puck by the hustling play of Pease and Aucoin.
Vakos didn't stop and neither did Burt. Vakos shoved a pass off the back of the net that Burt reached out and grabbed. The Big Winger then circled around the net and tried to stuff one in to no avail. Burt tried to score after getting his own rebound. Rejected. Burt got flattened. Where was Vakos? The never say die kid was on his way to the front of the net but he got plastered to the ice.
Burt down. Vakos down. Puck at the end of Burt's stick. This time Burt shoved a pass to Vakos. Vakos on the ground somehow got the puck on his stick. He lurched to his knees, puck on the back of his stick blade. He shoots--from his knees--back handed--and don't you know the puck goes up and over the left shoulder of the goal tender for one of the hardest earned, prettiest Short-Handed Goals you are ever going to see. It was Vakos' 6th of the year.
VAKOS & BURT TEAM UP FOR "ALTAR BOY SPECIAL" SHORT-HANDED GOAL
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Burt down on right, Vakos down on left |
Burt shovels pass to Vakos |
Vakos mid air controls puck & crashes to ice |
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Vakos lunges to knees |
Vakos gathers puck on blade back-handed |
Vakos shoots and scores from his knees!!! |
Hamden was now up 5-1. Paul Amarone then took over the game and fed Nick Amarone to make it 6-1 at the 8:34 mark. Vakos had a helper on this goal as he and Burt finished with 1 goal and 2 assists each. John Teulings had 3 assists, and then Paul Amarone struck again feeding RJ Ugolik who used a Justin MacGregor screen to rifle one home from the point to make it 7-1 at the 8:34 mark. MacGregor, who has been playing great, got an assist on the play. Amarone ended the day with three assists and the Hamden Team scored 19 points for the game.
Chris Giofriddo scored for South Windsor at the 10:01 mark assisted by Tom Dunn and Nate Waldisen finished the scoring at the 10:37 mark for an unassisted South Windsor goal. "South Windsor is a great team. A solid team, said Paul Avitable following the game. "They just got blitzed in the third. That happens. Don't think for a moment that we may not see them again in the Playoffs. It wouldn't suprise me in the least."
"Individual commitment to a group effort--that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work," said legendary Green Bay Packer Coach Vince Lombardi. It doesn't matter who plays more. It doesn't matter who gets credit for goals and assists. What matters is the team. Remember that kids. That is all that matters.
YOU ARE A TEAM. YOU ARE PLAYING LIKE A TEAM. JUST KEEP IT UP!
All year long Burtsville has been predicting the offensive talent on this team was on the verge of breaking out. It broke out Saturday in a Big Way against a quality team. Keep it up. Play hard and have fun.
The defense, led by Steve Sorrentino, AJ Gemmell, Brandon Dadio and Eric Sullivan had another fine game. Ryan Berton, Vito Puopolo, Harley Pretty, and Sean O'Keefe also played well. And let's not forget Mark Fracasso who supplies some much needed grit to the line-up and never stops working. Promising sophomore goalie, Andy Varga, made some fine, quality saves after giving up a couple after coming off cold from the bench. Way to go Andy!
All the pictures taken by Burtsville will be uploaded to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com for all to enjoy within two weeks of the game.
February 12, 2010
ZITI DINNER COMETH
HAMDEN HIGH TEAM ON TV
Hamden Boys' Hockey Team will hold its annual Ziti Dinner on Sunday, February 21st from 4:00P.M.--6:00 P.M. It will be held at the Hamden Elks Lodge on School Street in Hamden. Tickets are $8.00 per person and are available at the door and from the players. You may also contact Cathy Teulings at 203-287-9688 or Patti-Ann Vakos at 203-407-0095.
Dinners will be served by players on the varsity and junior varsity. It is always great fun to see the youngsters in the youth leagues get the chance to meet some of the older boys on the team. Raffle Tickets will be sold, while soda and soft drinks and dessert come with the price of admission.
"There in nothing like this Ziti Dinner," said Mike Sanca. "I live for this Ziti Dinner." Sanca's name is synonymous with the art of meatball rolling. "I've never seen anybody better,"chipped in Ron Esposito one of the best in the trade. "Why he and Ed Pierne are the two best I've seen."
For those familiar with the Annual MeatBall Rollng Night at present it appears to be on for Saturday the 20th immediately after the West Haven game. Some rumors may have it on Thursday night instead. So, you old timers out there--Lou Cusano, Steve Wheeler, Paul Avitable, Espo, Mike, Ed, Frank R., Mark B., Johnny Sides--stay tuned and check with someone as to when and where. It wouldn't be Meatball Night without you.
And remember folks, the Ziti Dinner is always a blast!! So come on out on the 21st and leave the cooking to us.
Hamden High has a video clip on www.nbcconnecticut.com. Check it out. Thanks Melissa for the heads-up on the clip.
February 8, 2010
HAMDEN 5 SIMSBURY 0
TEULINGS NETS TWO GOALS/AMARONE NOTCHES SHUT-OUT
BURT THREE POINTS, DEVINE, VAKOS, & NICK AMARONE SCORE
JOHN RYAN FRESHMAN SUPREME IN NET FOR SIMSBURY
ZACH DAY--ALL STATE DEFENSEMAN CANDIDATE--PLAYS TOUGH
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Harley "The Minister of Defense" Pretty |
Vito Puopolo heads towards the net |
Sean O'Keefe on Defense |
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Mark Fracasso always ready for contact |
Tim Lee (23) & Ryan Berton celebrate assists on N.A. goal |
Nicky Amarone finishes a fine move |
The Hamden Green Dragons built off their fine game against Mt. St. Charles with a solid victory over Simsbury Saturday 5-0. Simsbury--one of the top Programs up State-- is having an unusual down year. The fine skating team is 3-11 after the Hamden loss but boasts of All-State Defenseman candidate Zach Day and stellar freshman goalie John Ryan among other fine players. BurtVille is confident this great Program with talented players and dedicated coaches will rebound sooner rather than later.
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Zach Day lets it rip for Simsbury |
John Ryan makes incredible save |
Zach Day (#7) stays with Jim Burt |
Ryan made 41 saves in a great performance. His counterpart, Ryan Amarone, was not as busy but was every bit as good in shutting out Simsbury by turning away all of their 21 shots. Hamden got on top early as Defenseman John Teulings, one of the team's Co-Captains fired home a slap shot at the left point at the 3:16 mark of the first period. CJ Carignan and Jim Burt had assists on the goal.
Shortly after that the Hamden squad put another marker on the board at the 5:05 mark. Justin MacGregor--who has put together two fine games in a row--and Connor Walsh were all over the net down low abusing Ryan when Adam Devine did his whirling dervish imitation and banged home a rebound to put the home team up 2-0. MacGregor got an assist on the goal.
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John Teulings shoots and scores |
Ryan Amarone Save on way to Shut-Out |
PJ Vakos Tip-in Goal |
Then both team battled back and forth. Zach Day and his Simsbury teammates held Hamden scoreless despite two Power Plays and the first period ended 2-0. The second period saw Hamden swarm Ryan like sharks circling prey but the freshman netminder was equal to the task. He rejected Burt, Pat Lynch, Paul & Nick Amarone, Devine, MacGregor, Connor Walsh and others as the Simsbury defense did its darndest to keep Hamden from upping the lead.
JOHN RYAN STOPS 'EM ALL AS HAMDEN ONSLAUGHT PHASES NOT YOUNG STUD GOALIE!
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Paul Amarone--No! |
Jim Burt--No! |
Adam Devine---No! |
And when the Hamden D joined in the offensive fray, they paid. Just take a look at Brandon Dadio and what happened to the big, sophomore defenseman for Hamden when he let one go.
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Brandn Dadio sure does look good so far |
Who said #13 was an Unlucky Number, right Brandon? |
Wow, I usually do this to others! |
Hamden came out in the third and put the game away on Teulings second goal of the game at the 3:26 mark. The fleet skating defender has been playing at a high level and is one of many Hamden players who also are All-State candidates. Devine and Burt picked up assists on the goal. Then at the 4:01 mark Hamden got a low, hard shot by Paul Amarone who has been playing great for the Green Dragons. Amarone's shot was tipped beautifully by PJ Vakos and went five hole on Ryan to make it 4-0 Hamden at the 4:01 mark. Amarone and Burt got the helpers.
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J Mac Fires as Connor Walsh crashes the net |
John Teulings almost gets a Hat Trick |
Ryan Berton robbed by John Ryan |
Hamden was swarming the net all game long. All three lines were crashing the net, feeding the puck to one another and flying with an intensity worthy of the Green Dragon Team. They scored their last goal on a Nick Amarone flurry at the 5:06 mark with assists going to Tim Lee and Ryan Berton. Berton had his best game as a Green Dragon flying around the ice, banging bodies, creating havoc infront of the net and firing shots when he had the opportunity. Lee saw his first discernable action and was an instant success.
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Sully & John B. spruce up the glass |
Hamden & CBS Finest Border Simsbury Finest |
Fenway Goal Scorer Cam Hatch & Dad visit HNIB Teammate J. Burt |
"This was a good win for Hamden. They got offense from several sources, Amarone was solid in the net, and the defense continued playing well. They are beginning to build something special. The rest of the year may have some bumps in the road, but watch out as this team seems to be getting ready to hit on all cylinders. If they keep this up, you may very well see them end the year the way Fairfield Prep and West Haven started the year," said a nearby fan who attends almost all of the Hamden games but didn't want to be identified.
Hamden next plays Rhode Island Powerhouse LaSalle Academy this Wednesday at Hamden at 6:00 P.M. Let's hope the weather cooperates. Remember, you can view all of the pictures taken at this game at www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com within two weeks of this article. Enjoy!
Adam (#27) Devine Twists & Scores!
February 5, 2010
TITANS OF HIGH SCHOOL ICE HOCKEY MEET AGAIN!!!
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Hamden High Team Huddle Before Game |
Mt. St. Charles Team Huddle Before Game |
HAMDEN HIGH SCHOOL 2 MT. ST. CHARLES ACADEMY 2
The RYANS Shine in net as Amarone & Simoneau do Battle
Nick Amarone/Jim Burt Tally for Hamden
Evan Hoffman/Zach Samborsky Knot things up for Home Team
Two of the most storied high school programs in the USA did battle Wednesday evening at Mt. St. Charles Academy Rink in Woonsockett, Rhode Island. Ryan Amarone in net for Hamden made 42 saves and his counterpart for MSC, Ryan Simoneau made 29 as these two titans of the frozen ponds went at it hot and heavy for three periods and an overtime.
By games end, the teams had battled to a 2-2 tie. Mt. St. Charles had preserved its unbeaten record of 12-0-1 earning them the Number One Ranking in Rhode Island High School Hockey and Hamden had proved to itself that it can play with the best. And Mt. St. Charles is the best skating team Hamden has faced all year long---and that includes the team they met at Quinnipiac University.
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"Wild Turkey" Points Way to Pal |
Mt. St. Charles Championship Banners |
Crowd Enjoys Great Game |
If you have never been to the Mt. St. Charles Rink, you are missing a treat. Just think of the St. Rita's School Gymnasium with an ice rink and seats all around it. Chicken Wire instead of plexi-glass around the boards, ice cold rink, and an atmosphere you have to experience to fully enjoy. It's not about the blaring music, no fancy padded seats, just good, old fashioned hockey. Oh how Burtsville loves it!
And you couldn't have asked for a better game. The players on both sides flew up and down the ice. The refs let them play in what was a hard hitting, clean game. The goalies on both teams made some incredible saves and the team defenses were to be marveled at by one and all.
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PJ Vakos on the go for Hamden |
Coach Dave instructs players during game |
Brian Belisle lets one rip for the Mounties |
"Man was that a fast paced game," said Paul Avitable of Hamden. Paul's son Anthony is a goalie at Hebron Academy and was the MVP in Connecticut last year leading the Green Dragons to another State Title. "I was exhausted after the first period watching these kids go up and down the ice. What a high tempo game."
Nick Amarone got the scoring going for the visitors after Simoneau robbed Justin MacGregor on a fine rush by the big forward. MacGregor and Amarone had their best games of the year as they matched up with dynamo Adam Devine. If these two kids play the way they did Wednesday night, combined wtih Devine's never idling engine, it will be a big boost to the Green Dragon Team.
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Adam Devine leads linemates in battle |
J Mac is robbed on great save by Simoneau |
Nick Amarone Scores |
"I have seen Mt. St. Charles play every game this year. We are a talented--no--we are a GREAT team. Your Hamden team is the best I've seen. All three of your lines attack and your team defense is outstanding. We heard you're goaltending might be a question mark. No way. That kid in net was incredible," offered a Mt. St. Charles parent whose name escaped us.
And take that to the bank! Ryan Amarone turned in his best game of the season as did the team defense. AJ Gemmell, Steve Sorrentino, Brandon Dadio, Eric Sullivan, RJ Ugolik and John Teulings were outstanding!
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Amarone stones Mike Rocchio |
Hamden Team Meeting at Net during OT |
Amarone robs Brian Campbell |
"We had a rough game against NDWH," said an anonymous Hamden source. "That was really the first bad game our 'Team Defense' had. Otherwise, we've been solid all year. Tonight the wingers and centers came back and covered who they were suppose to and our defensemen played hard, smart hockey. This was a Top Notch, Elite Team we were playing. This game will do nothing but boost our confidence as we head into the remainder of our schedule and beyond. If we play like this, we can beat anyone."
The atmosphere was ripe for an outstanding game. After the save on MacGregor, Nicky Amarone picked up the loose puck and tossed it home for a 1-0 Hamden lead at the 8:31 mark of the first. MacGregor and Devine picked up assists.Thirty-six ticks of the clock later and the Mounties had tied it up 1-1 on an Evan Hoffman goal. George Hanna picked up the assist.
Hamden then scored on a fine play by PJ Vakos. CJ Carignan had carried the puck out of the Hamden zone and dumped it into the Mounties end. Vakos came crashing into the boards and the defense, grabbed the puck, deked a pass to Carignan and feathered a soft, short pass to Jim Burt. Burt let go with a quick snap shot which beat Simoneau high over the left shoulder. Hamden was back on top 2-1 at the 11:31 mark of the first. Vakos picked up an assist.
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PJ fakes pass to CJ and feeds Jimmy B. |
Jim Burt fires shot for goal |
Burt, Carignan & Vakos head off ice |
"That line has been cooking since the ND of Fairfield game," said Paul Vakos father of PJ. "They are scoring, they are passing, they are hitting. It is fun to watch. Lots of unselfish play and look what happens."
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Jim Burt watches Simoneau rob him of goal |
CJ Carignan takes the Face-Off |
PJ Vakos on ice wth fine Team Defense |
Mt. St. Charels came back right away again to tie the game 2-2 at the 14:04 mark. The goal was scored by Zach Samborsky with an assist to Brandon Yee.
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Everyone was moving all night long! |
Coach--The Legend Continues |
The Mounties Attack the Hamden Net |
The teams kept battling back and forth for two full periods and an overtime but no one could crack the fine netminding of Amarone and Simoneau. The enthusiastic, classy crowd cheered with excitement but neither team could crack through the other. Or, could they? Did they?
Another line that has been absolutely smoking for Hamden has been Pat "Patch" Lynch, Connor "Crash" Walsh and Paul "I'm the Cousin" Amarone. These guys have been so close to break out games that no one should be surprised if they soon put up huge numbers coming down the home stretch for the Green Dragons. Both Lynch and Amarone thought they had scored before the whistle had blown with six minutes to go in the game but the referee thought otherwise.
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Is it? Pat Lynch thinks so |
Is it again? Paul Amarone thinks so |
The only one that counts says NO! |
"Hey, I thought it was in," said Andy Amarone, father of Paul. "But let's not let that bother us. What a great game! A great, great game. Our kids played great. Their kids played great. Did I tell you it was a GREAT game?! It was just flat out fun to watch. High School Hockey at its highest level."
BurtsVille can feel the offensive explosion coming for this team. It is a highly talented with many skilled players. It has been building all year long. It is going to come. No doubt. And once it does don't stop pouring them in boys! Keep moving the puck unselfishly. Keep getting opportunities for your linemates and teammates and you will be surprised at what opportunities you yourself receive.
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John Teulings lets it rip |
Eric Sullivan loosens up before the game |
Adam Devine is stoned by Ryan Simoneau |
And whatever you do, work like you did in tonight's game. Do you have any idea of how good you are? Believe it. Think it. See it. And go do it. Do it as a team. Each and every one of you playing your best whether it be twenty shifts or two. Whether it be on the so-called first, second or third line. It doesn't matter. You are a TEAM. And if you play like you did tonight--like a GREAT TEAM--you will find out soon enough just how good you really are.
BurtsVille Believes! It's coming. You are just starting to see. Keep it up. It's only going to get better.
And it got better against Mt. St. Charles. This was a great team you just played. Remember this game the rest of the year and how you played in it. There will be other challenges before the season ends. There always are. Just remember this game!
Mt. St. Charles proved to be gracious hosts and the two teams--who missed playing one another last year for the first time in ages--skated to their second 2-2 tie in as many meetings. Hopefully, there will be many more to come in the future. Meanwhile, a few pictures to share on a fine memory of a fine game on the hallowed ice of Mt. St. Charles Academy.
Please remember that all of the pictures taken at this game will be uploaded to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com and will be available for your enjoyment on the Home Page or Picture Page of that site within two weeks of today. BurtsVille will also try to upload the pixs we took at Hamden two years ago for those of you who had players on that team.
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Future Mt. St. Charles Stars |
Present Mt. St. Charles Stars |
Soon to be Mt. St. Charles Stars |
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Ryan Berton, AJ Gemmell & Tino assist Ryan A. |
Pete "The Bus Man" Gemmell |
Steve "The Hip-Man" Sorrentino |
And Thank you Pete Gemmell for your generous acquisition of a bus for our ride to and from the game.
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AJ Gemmell protects the front of the net |
RJ & Team Defense rule the day |
Connor Walsh almost scores |
February 1, 2010
BEAUTY V. BEAST
A HUGE SUCCESS
Way to go Bob Ugolik!!!
Bob Ugolik's baby was born yesterday at the Lou Astorino Ice Arena. Ugolik had an idea last year to run a charity game featuring the Boys v. Girls Ice Hockey Teams. What a GREAT SUCCESS it was.
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Captains and Charity Representatives |
Teams with some of the gifts for charities |
Rene Sullivan injured as puck hits back |
More than 50,000 people turned out at the Mix Avenue Rink yesterday to witness BEAUTY V. BEAST. It was an adorable madhouse featuring a game, a contest and a game. The beneficiaries of the event were Kathie's Place and Don's Hat Rack. The charities split several hundreds of dollars raised at the event along with the many items brought by patrons and made by the members of each team.
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Beauty with Beasts |
Beast on the Loose |
Beauties pose for camera |
Kudos to Mr. Ugolik and all the volunteers that made yesterday's event an enjoyable and rewarding affair. And Thank you to Jeanne Cooper, the Administration and the Coaches for participating and allowing all of us to get together for good causes.
Don't Quit Your Day Job Ref !!! This is hockey not football!
Ref Steve Walsh after a nite at The Wharf brings football to hockey game!
Come on Ref!!!
Mad House Fun at Astorino Ice Arena
All of the 1500 pictures taken at this event--and at the Bantam A Game before this event--will be uploaded in the next two weeks to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.com. Enjoy.
Bobby Ugolik--You Done Thrown a Touch Down My Man!!!
THANK YOU FOR A WONDERFUL EVENT!!!
January 31, 2010
Kolakowski's Two Goals & Assist Lead NDWH
Green Knights Defeat Green Dragons 6-2
Bobby Dutton 3 Points, Lawrence Taylor 4 Points
Vakos, Burt Score for Home Team
Carignan, Teulings Two Helpers Each for Hamden
Varga sees Varsity Ice for first time
Senior Matt Kolakowski's back to back goals in the second period snapped a 2-2 tie and propelled the ND of WH team to victory over the host Hamden Green Dragons on Saturday. Kolakowski's second goal at the 9:31 mark was an incredible shot as he was smothered by Hamden defenseman Eric Sullivan. The Wallingford Sniper somehow managed to shoot the puck while his body was totally covered by Sullivan and his stick--between Sullivan's legs just outside of the crease--had only the stick blade exposed past the heel of Sullivan's skate.
MATT KOLAKOWSKI SCORES INCREDIBLE GOAL FOR ND OF WH
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Stick between & behind legs puck on blade |
Stick Blade Shot while smothered by Defender-WOW! |
Puck in Net--Incredible Goal! |
Kolakowski's entire line had a ten point game as the Green Knights dominated play throughout most of the game. Hamden started fast as PJ Vakos scored on Hamden's third shift. John Teulings made a nice pass to CJ Carignan below the left circle and Carignan had his pick of Jim Burt infront of the net and Vakos below the right circle. Carignan's rifle pass buzzed past Burt and Vakos picked it up and fired it home for a 1-0 lead at the 2:32 mark for the home team. Teulings and Carignan had assists on the goal.
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Matt Kolakowski's First Goal |
PJ Vakos Score |
Lawrence Taylor Score |
The tenor of the game may very well have been saved by Coach Bill Gerosa's Goalie right after Hamden's first score. PJ Vakos followed up his score with a rush off the ensuing face-off as he came in alone on the Geen Knigts netminder, Michael Federico. Federico held his ground, made the save and perhaps the game for the visiting squad which boasted of stalwart defensemen and Hamden natives, Francesco Sandillo and Mike Taddei.
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PJ Vakos gets ready to let it rip |
PJ Vakos Fires Shot low and hard |
Federico makes the Save |
Hamden was down 2-1 after the first period. They opened fast in the second as Teulings and Carignan hooked up again on fine passing that has helped the team play much better over the past couple of games. Carignan won the face-off to Teulings who fed a streaking Jim Burt down the right side and the quick skating winger whipped it home to tie the game just nine seconds into the second period. Carignan and Teulings had assists on the goal. Little did one know that would be it for Hamden.
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Burt slides puck between defender's legs |
Burt goes around defender to retrieve puck |
Burt gets tripped up before he can take shot |
Burt made a nice move in the third period putting the puck through a defenseman's legs as Hamden fought to get back into the game but got tripped up before getting the chance to pull the trigger. Federico made over 30 saves as the senior goalie stopped everything Hamden threw at him in an attempt to get back into the game. He was ably assisted by his defense. Ryan Amarone played hard but yielded to his teammate Andy Varga who saw varsity ice for the first time and made 9 saves on 10 shots. Way to go Andy!
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Ryan Amarone makes the Save |
Teammate gives Varga Pep Talk |
Andy Varga makes First Varsity Save |
Notre Dame's scoring summary was rounded out with one from James Redmond assisted by Joe Travaglino & Matt Merola. Redmond is a gifted player with great hands and is related to former Hamden superstar and BurtsVille and crowd favorite David Findley. The "Finn Man" is lighting it up on the Prep circuit this year playing in the woodlands of Maine. Rumor has it last week he hunted down a herd--yes, a herd--of black bear barehanded and then went out and scored a hat trick. Redmond plays with that same love of the game that the Finn-Man brought every night---and he gave BurtsVille a smile between periods that would make his cousin David proud.
Game to game one is in for a treat this year in the SCC and throughout the state. It seems that every team has a chance to knock off the other. North Haven takes out Hamden, Hamden squeezes by East Haven, West Haven marches over Fairfield Prep, Amity almost knocks off West Haven, Prep beats Hamden, Hamden takes out ND of Fairfield, Hamden beats West Haven and NDWH wins against Hamden. Are we having fun yet?
Buckle up and enjoy the ride kids. It's just like the New Canaan Game last year in the State Playoffs. It doesn't matter where you are ranked. It matters how you play on any given day. It's always been that way and always will be that way. It's late January for all the State's Teams. BurtsVille looks forward to more of the same in February with each squad wanting to beat the other---and each game promising nothing. You have the talent and you've done it before. Just keep working hard, stay together and everything will fall into place.
Jim Redmond gives BurtsVille a smile
This was not the only smile BurtsVille received Saturday. The Lou Astorino Ice Arena had in attendance not only Football Coach Tom Marcucci of the State Champion Green Knights of Notre Dame--a finer man and coach would be hard to find--but two of Connecticut's pre-eminent newsmen. The game was covered in person by New Haven Register Main Man, Dan Nowak, who along with his fine coverage of high school hockey is one of the leading forces in Fantasy League Football in the New England Area. Read and contribute to Dan's Blog as the season progresses.
And last but certainly not least, Don Boyle, the voice and brains behind Sportingnewsct.com. If you haven't listened to Brother Boyle call a game you are missing out on a pro's pro. His audio and streamline coverage of Connecticut High School Hockey is a treasure to behold and his reasonable prices for DVD's of the games your kids love to play are a testament to his appreciation of the sport for which he loves. Dial him up on the internet at www.sportingnewsct.com, check out what he has to offer and take advantage of his inexpensive rates to join or to advertise.
Don Boyle & Dan Nowak
All of the pictures BurtsVille took at this game will be uploaded within two weeks to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com. Please feel free to visit that site for pictures of your kids from this game. Enjoy!
January 25, 2010
VAKOS COLLECTS 5 POINTS
BURT GETS FOUR
AMARONE OUTSTANDING IN NET
HAMDEN TOPS WEST HAVEN 5-2
WITHINGTON INCREDIBLE IN NET FOR BLUE DEVILS
BAYLIS, ASCENZIA, BRERETON AS GOOD AS ADVERTISED
Ryan Amarone, John Teulings, PJ Vakos & Jim Burt leave ice
Connecticut High School Hockey took it up a notch this week in the SCC Division I Arena. Wednesday night saw the Blue Devils of West Haven knock off the previously unbeaten Fairfield Prep Squad as Hamden was beating ND of Fairfield in a big bounce back win from their game the previous Saturday. The "War at the Shore" was played this past Saturday as Hamden knocked West Haven from the unbeaten ranks. What a season it promises to be as these teams are only mid-way through a tough schedule for all of the above.
GOALIES SUPREME
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JP Withington makes incredible glove save on Carignan |
Ryan Amarone with beautiful leg save |
JP Withington robs Paul Amarone |
Hamden came out flying Saturday with PJ Vakos leading the way. Vakos and Jim Burt combined for 9 points on the day but they were not alone as the team seems to be jelling together and moving the puck much more so than they were at the start of the season. This game was old time District League Hockey from the sell out crowd in the stands to the outstanding goal tending provided by Hamden's Ryan Amarone and West Haven's PJ Withington.
"Hey, I like to think my kid was (and is) a good goalie," offered Paul Avitable father of last year's MVP in the State and former Hamden goalie Anthony Avitable. "These two kids today were outstanding. I mean, each team could have had several more goals if it weren't for Ryan and PJ. Both of these coaches had pretty fine goalies last year and it looks to me as if they are fine this year as well."
West Haven got on the board first on a nice rush and goal by Vin Berti. Berti is another one of the talented players West Haven boasts along with Ryan Bruneau and others. He was assisted on his goal by Mike Brereton at the 5:09 mark of the first period.
Hamden answered back on a Brandon Dadio goal at the 12:19 mark. It was set up by a hard rush by Burt who whacked the puck to Vakos in the corner who hit Dadio with a nice cross ice pass. Dadio, who has complimented his fine, hard hitting defensive play with some offensive moves, skated in and put a roof top wrister past the West Haven netminder to tie the score.
PUCK MOVEMENT KEY FOR THE GREEN DRAGONS
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Jim Burt gets puck to PJ Vakos in corner |
PJ Vakos makes pass to Brandon Dadio at Point |
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Brandon Dadio rips home Hamden goal |
Brandon Dadio celebrates his Goal |
It would be the first of many fine passing plays by the visiting Green Dragons.
The second period started out 1-1 and then at the 13:14 mark Burt and Vakos came down on a 2 on 1. Burt fed a beauty of a pass to Vakos who hammered it home for a 2-1 Hamden lead. West Haven then went on the assault as they came hard and fast at Amarone. He stopped Ascenzia and Ray Luedee--both talented, swift skaters and snipers for the Blue Devil Squad--on in close shots.
Both Amarone and Withington were making one save after another as the Blue Devil goalie robbed Paul Amarone, Pat Lynch, Adam Devine and CJ Cairgnan on outstanding saves. Amarone returned the favor to Lou Bisighni, Baylis, Ryan Hansen, and AJ Esposito. Both teams defense were playing solid as Hamden's AJ Gemmell made an outstanding defensive play mid way through the second period to break up a scoring chance for the home team.
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WH AD & Former All-State Pitcher Jon Capone on left |
RJ Ugolik & Tim Baylis go for a ride |
Coach Joe Morrell makes sure Tim Baylis is okay |
Steve Sorrentino had another outstanding game for Hamden as did RJ Ugolik and John Teulings, who is playing his best hockey of the year.
Then at the 5:37 mark Brereton on a gorgeous give and go with Bruneau slammed the puck past Amarone to knot the score at 2-2. Amarone had stopped Bayliss on a break away at the end of the first period but this goal was a beauty to watch as the West Haven offense moves very well; especially down low near the net.
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Mike Brereton puts in beauty for Blue Devils |
John Ascenzia is robbed by Ryan Amarone |
Coach Joe Morrell's team had put up two power play goals but the tide was about to turn on the Westies in the first stage of what may prove to be a seris of games this year between these highly touted teams. "It is just great to see Hamden and West Haven at such a high level statewide," said Terry Loukidies of Hamden. "This is old time hockey and it is great for the area. Hard hitting, clean game, fiercely fought between the greatest and oldest rivalry in the state."
Faces in the Crowd
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Don Boyle--Sportingnewsct.com |
Louise--Best Looking Zamboni Driver in the USA |
Coach Geoge DeMaio--ESPNradio1300.com |
Hamden was down a man with a little over a minute to go in the period when the tandem of Vakos and Burt hooked up once again. This time it was Vakos threading a fine, lead pass to the rushing Burt between two defenders and the big winger put it home for a shorthanded goal at the 14:20 mark that put Hamden in the lead 3-2. It was a tough goal to give up at the end of the period for the Blue Devils but they still were starting the third period out on the power play.
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Jim Burt Fires Shot |
Nick Amarone, Adam Devine & Justin MacGregor |
PJ Vakos Scores |
The teams battled back and forth in the third. Adam Devine was flying, Paul Amarone, Connor Walsh, and Pat Lynch were having their best game of the year, and Carignan was doing everything you need to do to compete in a hockey game. The team defense was tight and neither team was giving the other much room to move. And when they did, the boys between the pipes were saying no to any rubber coming their way.
Cliff Carignan, longtime youth hockey coach in Hamden and a former Hamden High School Star gave the kids a pep talk before Saturday's game. "I've coached most of these kids. They've been playing well but each one of them needs to--and can--pick it up even more. That's what I told them. And I couldn't be prouder of how they played. They played as a team with each one of them doing what they need to do to make this team go. Now, just keep it up and keep on improving. It's a long season," said the well respected Carignan.
Then at the 5:10 mark PJ Vakos, who was all over the ice all game long, stole the puck in the West Haven zone and scored Hamden's back breaking second shorthanded goal of the game to ice it for Hamden. "What a game that kid had," said Tom Vining. My God, five points. He was in on every Hamden score. And the Burt kid wasn't that bad either. It was a great win for Hamden but don't get carried away. I am not going to insult Hamden by saying West Haven may have had a let down after beating Prep. I don't think that's fair to say just like it's not fair to say West Haven played Prep with two of their kids out. All these teams play a hard schedule. It's one game. It's a long season. But man, what a season it has been and promises to be."
Hamden finished the scoring as Vakos fed Burt for an empty netter with less than a minute to play and Hamden skated off with a 5-2 victory. Next up for the Green Dragons is ND of West Haven at Hamden this Saturday at 2:30 PM. Coach Bill Gerosa's team comes in with many stars including Hamden residents, Francesco Sandillo and Mike Taddei. And don't forget the Wallingford Sniper, Matt Kolakowski.
Hamden will be the site this Sunday for Beauty v. Beast as the Girls' Team takes on the Boys' Team for Charity. See the article below and see the picture immediately below and let us know which of these fine gentlemen is Beauty and which one is Beast?
Beauty v. Beast
Paul Vakos and Coach John Ascenzia
Remember, all of the pictures BurtsVille took at this game will be uploaded to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com within two weeks of the game for all to see. Please visit that site and download the pictures you want for your tam. Enjoy!
Hey Doc Sorrentino, WE LOVE YOU. And this one's for you Doc!!!!
Steve Sorrentino gets one for Dad
January 23, 2010
BATTLE OF THE SEXES HITS HAMDEN ICE
CHARITIES WILL WIN IN BEAUTY V. BEAST FUN DAY
The Hamden Girl's Hockey Team will face the Hamden Boy's Hockey Team at the Lou Astorino Ice Arena on Sunday, January 31, 2010 at 3:15 P.M. in a Charity Hockey Game. The day's activities get underway at 1:30 P.M. with a JV Game, followed by Skill Competitions and other integrated events in what promises to be a fun filled day.
The Brain Child behind this Charity Event is Bob Ugolik. He cooked this idea up last year and now will soon see his son, RJ and daughter, Rachel fight somewhere other than home.
Bob Ugolik Cooking at Home
"Let's face it. I wear the apron at home. Nobody else. And I can dish 'em out with the best of them. So, if any of the mother's want to lace up and take the dad's on too...Bring it On!" said the likeable, but perhaps not politically correct father of three who up until now was happily married.
This has the makings of an event even greater than Bobby Riggs taking on Billie Jean King in the epic Astrodome Tennis Match that all our players should do history papers on for class. And one can just imagine what the coaches might be saying leading up to this event. Here is BurtsVille's imagination of what may be going on behind the scenes.
"We're sick and tired as the girls' coaches for not having top billing in town," let rip Head Woman's Coach Val Chamberlain when asked about the game. "Our players are better looking than the boys. Better players. Let's face, they are smarter too. And as far as coaches go, well let's just say the same applies. I mean who is this Bill Verneris guy anyway?"
Coaches Mike Callan, Val Chamberlain and Joe Webber
Coach Bill Verneris shot back, " Hey they want to take us on? Let me make a couple of calls and bring in a real friend of mine. A real talent. We're the Boys' Team. We go to Martha's Vineyard for Pre-Season. Where do the Girls go? To Johnson's Pond? I've got Big Time friends in the Vineyard. You'll see. Read on."
Coach Bill Verneris on phone to Vineyard for friend's help
"I frankly don't understand the animosity between the two teams," said Assistant Girl's Coach Jack Killoy. "Can't we all just learn to like one another. I'm glad he has friends in the Vineyard. All I need are my friends right here."
Coach Jack's Girls
"Coach. Yeah, the Vineyard was great. How are you? You want me to come to Hamden on January 31st for a Charity Hockey Event between the Boys' Team and the Girls' Team? You'll have to speak to my agent, Steve Walsh. If he tells me to be there, I will. I do everything Walshie tells me to do. don't you? Hey, we're still going fishing this summer, right?
Bill Murray looks for Coach Verneris on the Vineyard
Things are heating up for this Hamden Winter Classic. Beauty v. Beast. Proceeds from the event will be donated to Don's Hat Rack at YNHH which uses funds primarily to purchase hats for children that go through cancer treatment and to Kathy's Place which is a safe haven for women and children of domestic violence.
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Do you know where Coach Val went? |
Emily Orser ready to lay some lumber on net crashers |
Colleen Murphy gets ready to stick it to the Boys |
Monetary Donations for both charities along with new hats and safe home items (laundry items, non-perishable foods, baby items, and clothing) will be accepted.
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I'm not gonna be the first to go play them! Let's hide. |
Let's make some dough for Charity!!! |
You're in trouble when you go home son. |
So, please come out and support your teams and help them help others who are in need. For more information please check out the HYHA website at www.hyha.org.
January 21, 2010
CARIGNAN TWO GOALS, AMARONE SAVES
LEAD HAMDEN OVER ND FFLD 2-1
TEULINGS, GEMMELL, UGOLIK LEAD DEFENSE
CJ Carignan Heads up Ice
Hamden had its best TEAM effort of the year in knocking off Notre Dame of Fairfield Wednesday evening in Milford. Ryan Amarone was outstanding in net making 22 tough saves and CJ Carignan led a high flying offense with both goals to bring home the victory for the Green Dragons.
"That was Carignan's best game of the year. Forget about the goals. The kid was flying all game long. It was great to see him get rewarded for such fine play," said Tom Smith of the Yonkers Flyers. "And both kids in net were outstanding."
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CJ's Goal Through Traffic as PJ is at net |
Adam Devine Gets Robbed |
CJ's Winning Goal |
Eric Sugrue made 32 saves for the Lancers as he robbed Adam Devine, Jim Burt, PJ Vakos and Paul Amarone of sure goals time and time again. Ryan Amarone took away scoring chances by many of the ND snipers and was capably assisted by a strong defense.
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Ryan Amarone protected by Teulings and Gemmell |
Hamden Hotties & One Hat-Man Cheer on Team |
Coach Todd Hall on the Edge of Greatness-Fatherhood! |
Hamden's defense does not get the recognition it deserves. It has been one of the most consistently best team defenses in the State for several years. Much of the outstanding defense can be attributed not only to the players but to the coaches as well; especially defensive coach, Todd Hall.
RJ Ugolik at Defends at the net
ND struck first when Steve Novak buried a turnover in center ice and came in unmolested on Amarone. It put the home team up 1-0 at the 6:32 mark of the third period. Hamden came right back down the ice with Burt almost scoring for the Dragons.
Play went back and forth with AJ Gemmell--who has been playing steady, tough defense for Hamden-rifling a few, low hard shots on net. Teulings and Vakos were playing their best games of the year moving the puck noticeably better and Brandon Dadio, Eric Sullivan and Steve Sorrentino were playing their typical steady games.
MINISTERS OF DEFENSE
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Steven Sorrentino |
Eric Sullivan |
Brandon Dadio |
Pat Lynch was stoned on a fine rush up ice and linemates Paul Amarone and Connor Walsh were playing their typical high intensity games. Amarone was pulled down on a great scoring opportunity on a Walsh feed and Hamden went on the Power Play mid-way through the third period.
The team moved the puck around the ice nicely. Dadio got the puck at the point and fed Burt in the high slot as the hard working winger was robbed on a hard, low shot. The rebound came back out to Carignan who shot a backhander through a crowd to knot the game 1-1 at the 9:34 mark. Dadio and Burt got assists on the goal.
"If you look at the Hamden team, that Burt and Vakos always end up near the net and in the play. They never stop working. Same goes for that Paul Amarone line with Pat Lynch and Connor Walsh." added Smith.
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Jim Burt shot gets snagged by Eric Sugrue |
Paul Amarone guards cousin Ryan wtih RJ's help |
Hamden was flying. Devine was robbed again. The kid was flying up and down the ice creating scoring opportunities all night long. RJ Ugolik made some fine outlet passes and great defensive plays and Amarone made a couple of more brilliant saves. Then Hamden got a face off deep in the Lancers end. Burt won it to Vakos who fed Ugolik at the point who rifled it to Teulings at the other point who then one-timed a beauty to Carignan low to the left of Sugrue and the kid buried it in the net for the game winner at the 12:23 mark. Ugolik and Teulings got assists on the play.
THREE GREAT LANCERS WITH HAMDEN TIES
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Mike Sanca Cousin of Former HHS Star Mike Sanca |
Hamden Resident Eric Sugrue |
Hamden Resident Colin Fox |
It was a hard fought win against one of the best teams in the State. It was a HUGE bounce back TEAM victory. It was a GREAT come from behind road win. It leaves the Greenies going into battle with the West Haven Blue Devils Saturday feeling confident of their abilities---playing as a TEAM.
Saturday's game is at 1:00 P.M. at the Bennett Rink at West Haven High School. It will be broadcast by Don Boyle at Sportingnewsct.com and by "The Coach" George Demaio on espnradio1300.com. Come early. It is destined to be a sell out and one of the most exciting games of the year as two old rivals meet mid-season.
West Haven is undefeted and coming off a great win on the road in OT against previously unbeaten Fairfield Prep. What more could a high school hockey fan in Connecticut ask for than the hockey that these kids are offering up to us this year?!
By the way, Burtsville hates to see any player on any team get hurt. Fairfield Prep recently had two fine players hurt, including one of Burtsville's favorite players in Derric White. Burtsville--and we are sure the entire hockey family in Connecticut--wish them a speedy and healthy recovery.
Hope to see you Saturday!!!!
January 18, 2010
Amarone & Devine Score Two Each
Benson's Second Goal Ends Overtime Thriller
North Haven 5 Hamden 4
Mauri, Cuomo & Amarone Shine for North Haven
Mark Fracasso Flies for Green Dragons
Paul Amarone and Adam Devine scored two goals each but it was not enough as North Haven beat Hamden 5-4 at the Northford Ice Pavillion last Saturday. RJ Ugolik had two assists, CJ Carignan, Connor Walsh and Mark Fracasso chipped in one helper each.
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Paul Amarone Scores |
Mark Fracasso Flies his way to beautiful Assist |
Adam Devine Scores |
Amarone, on the verge of busting out the past few games, scored first on a back hander to put Hamden in the lead. He was assisted by Carignan and Ugolik. Then Richie Mauri scored to tie the game. He was assisted by Anthony Cuomo who played a great game.
Cuomo's skating--as fine as it was--took a back seat to his opening game performance. This fine skating forward sang a rendition of the National Anthem that was simply magnificient. Mauri had two goals and an assist scoring the tying goal with just 1 1/2 minutes to play and only 7 seconds after Adam Devine had put Hamden in the lead.
Mike Amarone in net for North Haven, Ryan Amarone in net for Hamden, and Nick and Paul Amarone also on the ice for the Green Dragons. Mike A. recorded 31 saves on the night as North Haven won perhaps its biggest game in years. And no one on the team contributed more than senior winger, Tyler Benson.
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Connor Walsh & Paul Amarone |
Fans Enjoy Tense, Close Game |
Mike Amarone Stops Another Hamden Shot |
Tyler Benson scored North Haven's second goal on the night to put them up 2-1 after the First Period. The fleet skating forward them scored an unassisted game winner 41 seconds into the OT Period to the delight of the home town crowd. Hamden will need to re-group as a team as they head into the meat of their schedule.
TYLER BENSON AND MATES CELEBRATE ONE OF HIS TWO GOALS
The Green Dragons seem to be coming together in parts. Once they all get on the same page in the same game the talent that is on this team should shine. It will happen. The team has too many fine players and people not to put this game behind them and look forward to the rest of the year.
Mark Fracasso was flying every time he hit the ice as was Connor Walsh. Pat Lynch had a strong game up front as did Ugolik and Steve Sorrentino on the back line. Frustration with some plays and missed scoring opportunities filled the night, but that all is part of life and sports. Learn from it all and advance forward.
"Hamden will be fine," said renowned College Professor and Sports Psychology Guru, Wareen K. "Spider" Simpson. "They all just need to play together. Use each others talents to help themselves and you will help the team. That's what team sports is all about--using your talents together with those of your teammates to bring out the best in everyone. Don't try to do it yourself. Play together, work together, battle together--as a team."
TEAM
Hamden next plays at the Milford Ice Pavillion this Wednesday Night at 7:30 PM against Notre Dame of Fairfield. Look for the Green Dragons to play hard as they move forward towards the rest of the season.
All the pictures taken by BurtsVille will be uploaded to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com within two weeks of the game for all to see. Enjoy!
January 14, 2010
CARIGNAN, UGOLIK, WALSH & BURT SCORE
HAMDEN 4 XAVIER 2
AMARONE OUTSTANDING IN NET
CJ Carignan Scores for Hamden
CJ Carignan scored Hamden's first goal on a fine feed from Jim Burt in the First Period last evening. Carignan then returned the favor in the Second Period feeding Burt with a beauty as the two hooked up for five of Hamden's nine points on the night in a hard fought 4-2 win over Xavier. Ryan Amarone had an outstanding game in net for the Green Dragons who improved to 5-1.
Congratulations Connor!!!
Connor Walsh scores first Varsity Goal
RJ Ugolik had a great game on defense and added the game winning goal in the Third Period. Ugolik's goal came just 16 seconds after Xavier had knotted the game on a Mike Rotondo goal. Rotondo's goal was assisted by the talented Jack Even and Charles Dupont. Dupont also had an assist on Xavier's first goal by Kurt Johnson. Mike Samek also had an assist on the Johnson goal.
RJ Ugolik (just over Goalie's Head) shoots Game Winner
Dylan Baker had 32 saves in net for the Middletown Squad and Ryan Amarone had 27 for the Green Dragons.
Dylan Baker robs Paul Amarone with this glove save
Carignan started the show at the 4:34 mark of the first. Nick Amarone--who also had an assist on the play--fought down low to get the puck to Burt. The big winger came along the back and side of the net to feed the swift skating Carignan. Carignan lifted a nifty backhander up and over the shoulder of Baker for Hamden's 1-0 lead.
Johnson got the goal back for Xavier at the 8:05 mark on fine, hard working plays by Dupont and Samek. Xavier was flying all night and playing the Green Dragons tough. Frank Maturo, a former Hamden Youth Hockey Super Star and Ralphie DiFonzo who has starred in the Hamden Youth Hockey System as well are two players on the Xavier squad.
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Mirror Mirror on the Wall... |
Past Hamden Stars Support Team |
Present Hamden Starlets Support Team |
The game was tied 1-1 after the First Period. Hamden came out strong in the Second Period. AJ Gemmell--who had a solid game on defense--took two consecutive low blasts from the point that almost made their way into the net. Steven Sorrentino and Brandon Dadio were also playing solid on the blue line for the hometown team.
Hamden was swarming the net but Baker was turning away PJ Vakos, John Teulings, Adam Devine and Paul Amarone who hit the post and just missed on a couple of other chances. Then at the 11:32 mark Carignan dug the puck out of a scrum behind the net and fed the hard shooting Burt with a pass in the slot that Burt rifled home to give Hamden a 2-1 lead.
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Teulings, Carignan, Vakos & Burt |
Paul Amarone's Puck Clunks the post |
Burt's Puck just whizzes over net |
"Burt's goal was a beauty," said Cape Cod Merchants' Coach, Johnny Sides. "Carignan was flying all night, Amarone looks real good in net, and the team defense is outstanding. And how about that Paul Amarone? The kid could have had three tonight with any luck. Same with Vakos. This team to me looks like they are on the verge of breaking out--Big Time!"
Mark Fracasso had another fine skating game for the Green Dragons as did Justin MacGregor, Pat Lynch and Nick Amarone. Eric Sullivan and Ugolik were playing great defense and Harley Pretty had another good game for the Hamden squad. Xavier kept up the pressure and despite the fine play of Ryan Amarone the visitors scored at the 9:59 mark of the Third Period to tie the game at 2-2.
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Trish & AD Jeanne Cooper enjoy the game |
Bobby U. & James L. enjoy game while Steve W. calls in strategy |
HHS Girls' Team Members enjoy game |
Enter Mr. Ugolik. RJ--one of the best two way defenders in the State of Connecticut--took a pass from Paul Amarone and let go with a hard, low wrist shot that made its way to the back of the net. The goal came just 16 seconds after Xavier's tying score and put Hamden up for good. Burt also had an assist on the goal.
Coach Scott Gainey's Falcon Squad played Hamden tough. They have solid goal tending and junior defenseman Jack Even is as good as they get in the state. He is tough down low, skates hard, and is smart in the offensive zone. Keep your eye on him as the season develops.
Ryan Amarone had another outstanding game in net for the Green Dragons. One has to wonder if they grow goalies in Hamden. Amarone has stepped up big time to give the Hamden squad a legitimate shot in any game they play. Teulings had his best game of the year as did Gemmell. The Hamden squad next plays Saturday night against the strongest team North Haven has had in years. The game is at the Northford Ice Pavillion starting at 5:15 P.M.
RYAN AMARONE SHINES IN NET FOR GREEN DRAGONS
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Leg Save |
Incredible Diving Blocker Save and a Beauty! |
Glove Save |
All the pictures taken at this game will be uploaded to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com within two weeks of the game.
January 9, 2010
HAMDEN'S CHRIS FITZSIMMOMS' FASTEST IN THE COUNTRY
Hamden High School's Chris Fitzsimmons is the FASTEST HIGH SCHOOL RUNNER in the entire NATION in the 600 meter race for Indoor Track and Field. He is so FAST that BurstVille can't even record his time!!!
Congratulations to Chris and his entire family!
Chris Fitzsimmons--Fastest High Schooler in the Country!!!
JANUARY 8, 2010
SORRENTINO LEADS DEFENSE OVER EAST HAVEN 1-0
RYAN AMARONE PITCHES FIRST CAREER SHUT-OUT
MATT MULLALLY OUTSTANDING IN NET FOR YELLOW JACKETS
Senior Steven Sorrentino Leads the Defense
Hamden and East Haven. The rivalry is something special. The games are always intense. And somehow, someway the games are always tight. Last night was no exception.
Matt Mullally stood on his head in net for East Haven rejecting 37 shots before a Nick Amarone shot somehow found its way past him at the 5:50 mark of the Third Period to give Hamden the victory. Connor Walsh and John Teulings had assists on the goal.
East Haven Goalie Matt Mullally throws another puck back at Hamden
Mullally was simply the star of the night. He threw away more rubber than is in the Hamden Tire Pond on State Street! The kid was simply amazing and while giving up a number of shots the East Haven defense, led by Tom Brunski and Big Jim Oca, did what they had to do down low when it counted to help out their busy netminder. Promising sophomore forward, Brian Flanagan, saw a lot of ice time for the Yellow Jackets and his performance should lead to even more as the season progresses.
Mark Fracasso flies by as Adam Devine shot becomes just another statistic for Mullally
Mullally should have been arrested for robbing PJ Vakos, CJ Carigan, Adam Devine, Jim Burt, Paul Amarone, Connor Walsh, RJ Ugolik, Mark Fracasso, and others. The kid was that good. He simply kept his team in the game the entire night.
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Jim Burt stoned by Matt Mullally |
Nick Amarone robbed by Matt Mullally |
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CJ Carigan just another Mullally Rejection |
PJ Vakos can't believe Mullally made the save |
Hamden's goaltending and defense were equal to the task. The entire team was flying all night long. Steven Sorrentino had an exceptional game on defense and was ably assisted by the likes of RJ Ugolik, AJ Gemmell, Brandon Dadio, Eric Sullivan, Harley Pretty and the new stud defender, PJ Vakos. Ugolik hit the post in the third as did Paul Amarone in the first.
Ryan Amarone gets assistance from mates
Ryan Amarone came up big in the first stopping two brilliant rushes by East Haven Captain Louie Pane. Pane, a star player at the Hockey Night in Boston Summer Showcase this past summer ( in which he and Hamden's Jim Burt played on opposite Connecticut Teams), came down and through the Hamden team a couple of times in the first only to be stopped by Amarone. The Yellow Jacket senior led the East Haven squad in a frantic third after Hamden's goal as they peppered 8 shots on net. Amarone stopped them all.
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Mom with future East Haven Stars |
Former Quninnipiac Stars |
Don Boyle with present Hamden Stars |
"Hamden did everything but score tonight," said Ed Brachocki of the Carefree Arizona Press in the area visiting family for the holidays. "The goalies both played well and the kid for East Haven was incredible. Hamden looks like they have a great team defense and that Sorrentino kid played one heck of a game!"
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Louie Pane on the move |
Mullally greets Teulings, Vakos, Carignan & N. Amarone |
Brian Flanagan (#27) and Team get ready for Third Period |
"This Hamden team is loaded with firepower," said Brachocki. "It is well balanced and just a matter of time before the scoring catches up with the defense and goal tending which has been solid. Last night's game was a huge step in the right direction with crisp passing and hard forechecking with little one on one play which thus far has disrupted the team's offensive flow. Look for the offense to break out in the near future and get on a tear as the seaon goes along."
Tonight's game had a lot of story lines. Sorrentino just one of them. Coach Bill Verneris of Hamden and Coach Lou Pane of East Haven go way back to their playing days as teammates at Quinnipiac University. The friendship remains while the rivalry is alive and well. And isn't it fun to watch all these kids knock heads on the ice as we parents get to enjoy them play a game they love.
Many of us have had the pleasure of coaching our kids in youth sports. Few have the chance to coach their kid beyond that mecca of American life. And as with everything, there is an end to what should be a wonderful life experience. So, BurtsVille gives a special acknowledgement to Coach Pane who has had the pleasure of coaching his son during his high school career. Young Louie is in his Senior Year and while Burtsville trusts they will have many more wonderful experiences together in the years ahead their time on the bench as player and coach is quickly coming to an end. Congratulations to two fine gentlemen and class acts.
Father & Son--Coach & Player--Priceless!
And Burtsville would be remiss if I didn't add a personal note. My own dad--a wonderful man in every sense of the word--left us eight years ago today. I love you dad and miss you. Enjoy each and every second kids of your time together. They are moments to cherish and times to remember. Each in its own way special.
And special kudos to the Amarone Brothers, Ryan and Nick. One brother pitches a shutout and the other one scores the only goal to win the game. Way to go boys!
Now, if you pay attention to Connecticut High School Hockey at all you may recognize the name but not the face of the man above with the two Hamden beauties. It is Don Boyle of SportingNewsCt.com. The man behind the voice who does such a wonderful job broadcasting our kids games. "Tis a face only radio can love, but a voice loved by one and all!!!! If you haven't gotten up and listened to Don and his mates calls of the games, you are missing something special.
Remember, all of the pictures taken at games by Burtsville will be uploaded to www.burtsvillehamdensportspixs.shutterfly.com for all to see. Game pictures should be uploaded to that site within one week of each game. All of Hamden's games this year with the exception of this game and the Fairfield Prep game are already on that site for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy!
JANUARY 6, 2010
QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY HOSTS HAMDEN & FAIRFIELD PREP
AT TD BANK SPORTS CENTER
A crowd in excess of 1500 witnessed the #1 Ranked Fairfield Prep Team beat #2 host Hamden 5-2 in the first ever Boys High School Hockey Game on the York Hill Campus of Quinnipiac University.
Hamden got goals from Pat Lynch on assists by Nick Amarone and Paul Amarone and Adam Devine scored on assists from PJ Vakos and Justin MacGreogor. It was a tough loss but a good loss for the Green Dragons. Prep is a fine skating team with one of the best players in the State in Derric White.
Lots of players get hype. This kid is the real deal. A pleasure to watch. He doesn't force the game and yet he seems to be in every play. A fine skater, tough physically and always seems to be in the right place offensively and defensively. The kid is simply a great player. Kudos to Derric and his teammates who beat the Green Dragons fair and square after an evenly played first period.
The game was 3-2 when a penalty was called at the very end of the second period. Prep seized the opportunity with a PP Goal thirty seconds into the third to go two up. Ryan Amarone played well in net and RJ Ugolik had a strong game on defense. Connor Walsh continues to impress with his hustle every time he hits the ice.
THANK YOU QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY FOR OPENING THE DOOR TO HIGH SCHOOL HOCKEY AT THIS BEAUTIFUL FACILITY. HOPEFULLY, THE START OF SOMETHING BIG!
Hamden plays at East Haven Thursday at 7:30 P.M. against Lou Pane's Yellow Jacket Squad.
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Derric "The Great" White |
Man Lost at Rink |
Team Strength will get you through |
Connor "Crash" Walsh on the fly |
