Del Monte, Pierce assigned from Rochester

The Cincinnati Cyclones announced today that they released forwards, Matt Smyth and Brent Clarke from their contracts as it was also announced that Ryan Del Monte and Matt Pierce were released from the Rochester Americans 25 game PTO's.

Del Monte, 27, Played in 21 games with the Amerks scoring 3 goals and 3 assists for 6 points with 25 penalty minutes. Prior to his AHL recall, Ryan had an assist in his two games with the Cyclones.

Pierce, 25, Played 8 games with Rochester no collecting a point and a minus 5. Matt played 15 games with the Cyclones this year scoring 4 goals with 7 assists for 11 points before the call-up.

The Cyclones play host this Wednesday to the Reading Royals at US BANK ARENA.

Cyclones (10-8-5-1) Walleye (8-12-1-1) Preview

The Cyclones will host the Toledo Walleye tonight for their 5th meeting this season. The cyclones after dropping the first game 3-2 in Toledo have won the last three. Marc Cheverie will look to extend his win to double digits at a record of 9-4-3 with three shutouts which leads the ECHL.

Player Spotlight:

Cyclones: Dustin Sproat- Sproat since returning to the Queen City from Germany has played in 13 games collecting 5 goals and 5 assists.

Walleye: Jordan Pearce- The highly touted Red Wings prospect is 2-3 in five games for Toledo with a 3.79 GAA

Cyclones agree to terms with Three

The Cincinnati Cyclones announced today that they have agreed to terms with forwards Brent Clake and Matt Smyth while also signing goalie, Pat Street.

Clarke comes to the Cyclones after playing in 12 games this season with the Columbus Cottonmouths in the SPHL. In those games he collected two goals and two assists. He also spent last season under Cyclones Head Coach, Jarrod Skalde in the IHL with the Bloomington PrarieThunder.

Matt Smyth the Orlando, FL native played last season under Skalde as well in Bloomington for five games while also playing 11 with the Dayton Gems. He led the OJHL Chitcoumi Tigres with 51 goals and 57 assists in 51 games.

Street, who has served as the Cyclones emergency back-up goalie was also signed today due to Jeremy Smith and Chet Pickard being with the AHL Milwaukee Admirals as Pekka Renne recovers from a knee injury for the Nashville Predators.

Jarrod Skalde on his way out?

Is Cyclones head coach, Jarrod Skalde on his way to being run out of Cincinnati? The Cyclones come into tonight's game against the Kalamazoo K-Wings with a 1-4-1-1 record. The worst start for a Cyclones team since 2003-04 when Chris Chichocki was at the helm. That club finished with a franchise worst 25-43-4 record.

Skalde who has been under much scruitny from fans is seemingly still trying to get his system in place. After coaching the Bloomington PrarieThunder of the IHL the past two years to an overall 60-74-18 record, Skalde was hoping to come to the Queen City and take off from the start but this team is yet to find it's niche'.

Cyclones fans were used to the strategic defensive coaching of Chuck Weber who left this season to the AHL to lead the Rochester Americans who are in 1st place. Skalde however, runs a creative offensive system. "I like to see my guys be creative on the ice. They get to have more of a call on what happens out there." This system however, does not seem to be working.

The clones come into the game tonight with the worst PK percentage in the ECHL with just holding a 58.6% while also allowing the most goals against with 32.

In this reporters mind, Give coach Skalde more time. He has 13 years of professional hockey experience including over 100 NHL games. Give him time and let his system take shape and see how the team responds. If the All-Star break rolls around and this team is still in the cellar, then possibly make a move but right now 8 games into the season it is too early to call.

Elmira takes a bite out of Cyclones 4-2

Oren Eizenman and Justin Donati each had a goal and two assists for the Elmira Jackals (4-1-2-0) en route to a 4-2 victory over the Cincinnati Cyclones (1-4-1-1) in front of 1,068 at U.S. Bank Arena on Tuesday night.

The Jackals jumped out to an early 1-0 lead when Oren Eizenman buried his third goal of the season past Cyclones goalie Chet Pickard (L, 30 saves, 0-2-0) on the power play.  Just like last Saturday, though, Cincinnati was able to climb back when Mathieu Aubin found a loose puck underneath a swarm of players and pushed it past Elmira netminder Shane Connelly (W, 23 saves, 1-0-0) at 13:23.  Then, just 19 seconds later, Mike Bartlett wristed home a shot from between the circles to give the Cyclones a 2-1 lead through 20 minutes.  It was the first time this season that Jarrod Skalde’s bunch had the upper hand through one period of play.

Although both teams had plenty of scoring chances in the middle frame, only Elmira was able to find the net in the second period.  During a Jackals power play, Yannick Tifu jumped all over a Pickard rebound and stashed it for his third goal of the season, knotting things at two.  Just over four minutes later, at 18:45, Tifu grabbed a Cincinnati turnover at neutral ice and dished a pass to Kevin DeVergilio, who tipped it home for a 3-2 Jackals lead.  Little did they know it then, but it would turn out to be the game-winning tally.

Early in the third period, Scott Reynolds was whistled for a slashing call and Elmira’s power play went back to work.  Justin Donati danced by a couple of Cyclones defenders and slid the puck underneath Pickard for another goal on the man-advantage, making it 4-2 Jackals.  They would hold on to win by the same score.

Cincinnati was scoreless on the power play tonight despite four opportunities.  Elmira finished 3-for-6.

Wheeling nails Cyclones in home opener 7-3

The Wheeling Nailers, spoiled opening night for the defending Kelly Cup Champions at US BANK ARENA by a score of 7-3. Andrew Petersen compiled a texas hat trick where he was able to net four goals past rookie goalie, Marc Cheverie (0-2-1-0). The Cyclones were able to get goals from Scott Reynolds, TJ Fast and Scott Lehman, but the five goal 3rd from Wheeling sunk the clones.

Update from Toledo

After two periods at the Huntington Center in Toledo, the Cyclones trail the Walleye 2-1. After a scoreless first period where the Cyclones clearly looked to be the better team outshooting Toledo 10-6. the Walleye returned for period two looking for control. Early in the second period, Scooter Smith was able to throw a weak shot past the far side of new Cyclone goalie, Chet Pickard.

Later in the second, Pierre Lebrun fired a shot from the right circle that was tipped by defenseman Ryan Stokes into the upper corner over Pickard. The Cyclones would answer with 36 seconds left in the period when 2nd year pro, Brett Robinson took a pass from captain, Barrett Ehgoetz and slipped it over the glove of Scott Campbell. After two the Cyclones heavily outshooting Toledo 23-14, while the Walleye hold the 2-1 edge on the scoreboard.

Tough guy, Chris Morehouse delt to Greenville

The Cyclones announced today soon after recieving Mike Bartlett and Scott Lehman that they have traded tough guy and fan favorite, Chris Morehouse to the Greenville Road Warriors. Greenville is led by former Cyclone assistant coach, Dean Stork. The Cyclones will recieve future considerations in the trade. Morehouse played in 44 games with the Cyclones collecting 4 goals and 4 assists with 102 penalty minutes.

Cyclones recieve skilled duo from Admirals

The Cyclones announced today that they have recieved forward, Mike Bartlett and defenseman, Scott Lehman from the Milwaukee Admirals of the AHL.

Lehman, a 2005 third-round selection of the Atlanta Thrashers, has spent most of his last three seasons playing with the Chicago Wolves (AHL) before coming to Milwaukee.  In 2009-10, Scott collected a pair of assists in 11 games.  He made his NHL debut a season earlier with the Thrashers on December 18, 2008 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Prior to turning pro, Scott played four years with the OHL St.Micheal Major's where he averaged over 170 penalty minutes in three of his four years.

Mike Bartlett a third-year pro, comes to Cincinnati after spending the early portion of this season and nearly half of 2009-10 at the AHL level.  In six games with Milwaukee this year, Bartlett has notched one assist.  Last year, he collected 10 points (6 goals, 4 assists) in 41 games with the Lake Erie Monsters (AHL).  The former Notre Dame Fighting Irish forward also saw ECHL action a year ago as a member of the Johnstown Chiefs, averaging nearly a point-per-game with 10 goals and 15 assists in 30 contests.

J.C. Sawyer released by Cyclones

Reigning ECHL Defenseman of The Year, J.C. Sawyer was released today by the Cyclones. After playing in two games for the Clones' collecting a goal and three assists J.C. was placed on 3 day I.R. before his release. We were able to get a quote from Cyclones radio broadcaster Nick Brunker on the move. "J.C. simply did not want to play the system put in place by Jarrod Skalde. It was easy to see that he struggled playing a defensive style game, something coach Skalde insists on his defenseman to do."

With the Cyclones recieving, Carl Hudson the move did not effec the number of players on the Cyclones roster.

Cyclones recieve Hudson and Pickard, Smith sent to Milwaukee

The Cincinnati Cyclones proud members of the ECHL and defending Kelly Cup Champions have recieved defenseman, Carl Hudson from the Rochester Americans of the AHL. Hudson played four seasons at Canasius College of the AHA where he finished in the top five every season in penalty minutes. Hudson also had 34 points his Senior season with the Griffins in 35 games to lead the team. After finishing his career, Carl played seven games with the Rochester Americans including 4 playoff games.

In a suprise turn of events, the Cyclones also have recieved the Nashville Predators #1 pick from the NHL DRAFT in 2008, goalie Chet Pickard. In 2010-11, Pickard so far was 0-3-1 with the Admirals with a 3.47 GAA. This move is similar to last season when Mark Dekanich was sent to Cincinnati to regain his confidence for two games. As a rookie in 2009-10, Pickard was 14-16-3 for Milwaukee.

This will be the 2nd call up of the season for Jeremy Smith and 3rd of his professional career.

Scott Reynolds sent back from Rochester

Cyclones forward, Scott Reynolds was released from his PTO with the Rochester Amerks and returned to the Cyclones today. Scott who earned his first AHL call up prior to the beginning of the ECHL season played in six games with Rochester, scoring a goal and an assist for two points. Reynolds will be in uniform this saturday as the Cyclones travel to Kalamazoo to face the Wings.

Smith returned from Milwaukee, Cyclones sign Olson

The Cincinnati Cyclones announced today that goalie, Jeremy Smith was returned from his call-up to the AHL Milwaukee Admirals. Smith dressed in five games for the Ads but did not see anytime in net behind Chet Pickard. Jeremy was Co-MVP with goaltending mate Robert Mayer in the 2009 Kelly Cup Championship run.

The Cyclones also announced that they have came to terms with tough guy defenseman, Benn Olson.

Olson, the six-foot-four-inch British Columbia native, will add more size and physicality to the Cyclones defensive core.  He spent most of the 2009-10 season as a member of the Florida Everblades, racking up a team-leading168 penalty minutes in 50 games.  A season earlier, Olson played the same role for the Albany River Rats of the American Hockey League, spending 140 minutes in the sin-bin in just 36 games.

Ehgoetz OT goal wins it for Cyclones!



Barret Ehgoetz



The first period of tonight’s game was eerily similar to last night’s contest.  Elmira opened the scoring early when Michael Dubuc beat Cyclones goalie Marc Cheverie on the short-side to give the Jackals a 1-0 lead.  And just like last night, Cincinnati responded.  Brian O’Hanley netted his second of the season, from Dylan Hunter and Matt Pierce at 2:34 to tie things up.  When rookie Sam D’Agostino got whistled for a tripping call at 8:40, the Jackals got to utilize their power play, and it cashed in.  Dubuc netted his second of the night when Brock McBride set him up for a one-timer that eluded Cheverie and gave Elmira a 2-1 lead.  But Dubuc wasn’t done; on another Cincinnati penalty, the third year player completed the natural hat trick by blasting another slap shot into the net at the 13:07 mark, extending Elmira’s lead to 3-1.  Luckily Dylan Hunter was able to stop the bleeding when he poked home a loose puck to cut the Cincinnati deficit to 3-2 as they hit the first intermission.

Tonight’s second period was not nearly as lopsided as the opener, as only one goal was scored between the two teams.  Unfortunately, though, it was off the stick of Dubuc once again – his fourth of the game and fifth of the season.  While the Cyclones argued that the puck never went in the net, the officials gathered and determined that the goal would indeed count – giving the Jackals a 4-2 lead after 40 minutes.

In the third frame, the Cyclones came out flying and continued to weather several Elmira scoring chances.  After Chris Frank was called for a roughing penalty at 2:35 of the third, Cincinnati’s power play got another chance to go to work.  Matt Pierce tipped home a J.C. Sawyer point shot to cut the deficit to 4-3.  Then, with less than 2:30 to play in regulation, Sawyer finally got a tally of his own, another point blast, that beat Elmira goalie Marco Cousineau to knot things at four a piece.

Just as regulation time expired, Oren Eizenman was called for a slashing penalty – giving the Cyclones an early power play to start the extra session.  While they were unable to capitalize with that man advantage, they gained all the momentum.  In a bizarre finish, Matt Pierce jarred a puck loose along the back-wall boards, and Captain Barret Ehgoetz banked a shot off the back-side of Cousineau and into the net for his 12th career Cyclones game-winning goal.

For the second night in a row, Cheverie was peppered in net.  He earned his first professional win after turning aside 33 Elmira shots.  Marco Cousineau suffered his first loss of season despite stopping 27 Cyclones shots.

 

Marc Cheverie

The win gives Head Coach, Jarrod Skalde his first ECHL win and Cyclones victory. It also gave Marc Cheverie (1-1-0) his first professional win.





Jackals take a bite out of Cyclones

The Elmira Jackals (1-0-0-0) used a five-goal second period to defeat the Cincinnati Cyclones (0-1-0-0) by a 7-3 final score in front of 3,804 at First Arena on Friday night.

The Cyclones got an early chance to use their power play unit, as Chris Frank was whistled for roughing just 2:05 into the first period.  However, it was Elmira that capitalized as Brock McBride got behind the Cincinnati defense and swatted the puck past Cyclones rookie goalie Marc Cheverie making it 1-0 Elmira.  Luckily, Cincinnati found the net just a couple of minutes later when a Brian O’Hanley wrist shot beat Elmira netminder Marco Cousineau to knot things at 1-1.  They would end the first frame at the same score, however, the Jackals led in the shots 14-4.

Unfortunately, things came completely unglued for the Cyclones in the second period as five different Jackals found the net in the middle frame.  Michael Dubuc broke the 1-1 tie when he knocked home a rebound, making it 2-1.  Just 1:21 later, Elmira extended their lead as A.J. Perry buried a one-timer past the stick-side shoulder of Cheverie.  Oren Eizenman followed with another tally at 11:14, a power play goal, making it 4-1 Elmira.  But the Jackals weren’t done.  Eric Lampe and Patrick Coulombe then scored 51 seconds apart to blow the game wide open at 6-1 after 40 minutes of play.  At that point, the Cyclones were being outshot 35-9.

Yannick Tifu, who finished with a four-point night, added another goal 5:10 into the third period as he capitalized on a Cyclones turnover for an easy breakaway goal.  With a 7-1 deficit, a comeback was pretty much out of reach.  However, that didn’t stop the Cyclones from continuing to press offensively.  During a four-minute power play, Cincinnati was able to cash in twice on two point shots.  J.C. Sawyer netted the second Cincinnati goal at 10:42, blasting a slap shot over the stick-side shoulder of Cousineau.  Then, just 58 seconds later, T.J. Fast netted a similar marker to make the score 7-3 in favor of Elmira – which is how the game finished on the scoreboard.

The Cyclones managed to go 2-for-4 on the power play tonight.  Elmira finished 2-for-10.  Like the scoreboard, the shots-on-goal totals were equally as lopsided.  The Jackals outshot the Cyclones 44-16 in the season opener.

Cyclones vs. Jackyls Pre-View

The Cincinnati Cyclones will open their 2010-11 ECHL season this Friday, October 15^th in Elmira, NY against the host Jackyls. The Clones will also face Elmira on Saturday. Cincinnati won their second Kelly Cup title on May 21, 2010 with a 2-1 win over the Idaho Steelheads - taking the series four games to one. 

Under A New Helm: The Cyclones will begin a new era of hockey this week, as Head Coach Jarrod Skalde and Assistant Coach Scott Fankhouser will both stand behind the Cincinnati bench for the first time.  Skalde takes over for Chuck Weber, who earned an AHL coaching job in Rochester this year.  Both Skalde and Fankhouser have seen time in the NHL.  Skalde played 115 games at hockey’s highest level, spending time with eight different teams during that stretch.  Fankhouser, meanwhile, appeared between the pipes in 23 games for the Atlanta Thrashers.

Welcome Back Eggo: For the fifth-straight season, Barret Ehgoetz will once again don the Cyclones colors.  The Captain was the only player to have been a part of all four years of the Chuck Weber Era in Cincinnati.  He owns 21 team records including the career scoring lead (233 points), games played (271), assists (152), shorthanded goals (eight) and shots on goal (696).  In the 2009-10 regular season, the Cyclones Captain logged 69 games – scoring 23 goals and 40 assists.

D-FENSE!: The Cyclones added some offensive potency to their blue-line this offseason when they added defending ECHL Defenseman of the Year, J.C. Sawyer to the 2010-11 Roster.  He had a career year with Toledo in 2009-10 by pacing all ECHL defenseman in goals (21), points (59), and game-winnings goals (7).  His 38 assists ranked him second among league blue-liners, while he finished tied for fourth with 18 power-play assists and fifth with 24 power-play points.

Between The Pipes: Due to the call-up of Jeremy Smith, Rookie goaltender, Marc Cheverie will start in net for the Cyclones on opening night against the Jackyls. The rookie comes to Cincinnati after three seasons at the University of Denver.  He was a Hobey Baker Top-10 Finalist last season and the INCH Goaltender of the year.

Scouting Elmira: The Cyclones and Jackals spilt the 2009-10 season series, 2-2.  However, Cincinnati leads the All-Time series with Elmira, posting a 16-7-0-2 record over three seasons..  Former Cyclones Head Coach Malcolm Cameron takes over the Jackals this year after spending the last two seasons behind the bench of the Florida Everblades. Forward, Justin Donati finished second in MVP voting last season scoring 103 points.

Jeremy Smith called up to AHL Milwaukee Admirals

2010 Kelly Cup Champion Cincinnati Cyclones, announced today that goaltender Jeremy Smith has been recalled by the Milwaukee Admirals of the American Hockey League.  To fill Smith’s place on the roster, Cincinnati has signed Pat Street as an emergency backup goaltender.

Smith, the 21-year-old Nashville Predators draft choice, is making his second career trip to the AHL.  Last season, Smith appeared for five minutes in one game with the Admirals, making one save in a 5-1 loss to Texas on December 4, 2009.  He is the second Cyclones player this season to receive a call up to the American Hockey League.  Forward Scott Reynolds was summoned by the Rochester Americans on October 7.

With the Cyclones, the Dearborn, Michigan native enjoyed an award-winning rookie season in 2009-10.  Smith posted a 23-15-0-2 record during the regular season with two shutouts, earning him a spot in the ECHL All-Star Game.  In the postseason, Smith went 9-7-1 with a 2.67 GAA, a 90.7 save percentage, and one shutout.  Upon the completion of the Kelly Cup Finals, Smith was awarded Co-Playoff MVP accolades, sharing the honor with teammate (and fellow goalie) Robert Mayer.

Interview with Head Coach, Jarrod Skalde

Cincinnati Cyclones head coach, Jarrod Skalde took time today and sat down with us for an interview. We are saying a big thank you to Jarrod and assistant coach, Scott Fankhouser for taking the time with us.

CL: "Jarrod, Do You Feel Pressure Coming Into A Franchise With So Much Success?"

JS: "Absolutely. But coming into a franchise that has had so much success is better than coming to a franchise that has been at the bottom half of the league, under no pressure. I'm excited to be here and the franchise has just been great."

CL: "What Is Your Relationship With Chuck Weber?"

JS: "We are very close. Chuck left me with a great starting point and has been in constant contact with me since taking over. Having him as an affiliation definatly makes it easier for us to communicate and it's a very good relationship."

CL: "How Does Your Style Differ To That Of Chuck Weber's?"

JS: "Chuck is a very strategy styled. He wants a player in certain spots on the ice at all times and obviously that has worked here for him being very defensive minded. I however, Would like to see a little more offensively strategic and be more creative with the skilled players we have."

CL: "How has Cincinnati Welcomed You?"

JS: "With open arms. As I said the franchise has been absolutely wonderful and the passion of the Cyclones fans has just been great so far. We are excited to just get down to playing hockey."

The Cyclones open up Friday in Elmira against the Jackyls. Last season, the Clones and Jackyls split the season series 2-2.

Cyclones recieve James DeLory from Rochester

The Cyclones announced today that they have recieved defenseman, James DeLory from the Rochester Americans of the AHL. DeLory a 6'5 225 pound former 4th round pick of the San Jose Sharks played in 36 games last season with the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs of the CHL. In those games James collected 2 goals and an assist while racking up 78 penalty minutes.

DeLory spent the past two years in AHL camp with the Rochester Americans and under contract with them this season he was assigned to Cincinnati. "James is a tough guy. He is going to play a big part on this team and we are excited to watch him play." Said head coach, Jarrod Skalde.

Ladies and Gentleman, Your 2010-11 Cincinnati Cyclones!!!

2010-11 Cincinnati Cyclones Roster: *Kelly Cup Champ

Forwards:        

Barret Ehgoetz*            LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

Brett Robinson*           LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

Chris Minella                LAST TEAM: NOTRE DAME NCAA

Chris Morehouse*        LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

Dylan Hunter                LAST TEAM: ROCHESTER AHL

Mathieu Aubin*            LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

Matt Butcher                LAST TEAM: NORTHERN MICHIGAN NCAA

Matt Pierce*                LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

Sam D’Agostino           LAST TEAM: U-MASS LOWELL NCAA

Ryan Del Monte           LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

Defense:

Adam Bartholomay       LAST TEAM: TULSA CHL

Brock Sheahan*           LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

Brian O’Hanley*          LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

David Sloane                LAST TEAM: PHILADELPHIA NHL

Doug Krantz*               LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

J.C. Sawyer                 LAST TEAM: TOLEDO ECHL, DEFENSEMAN OF THE YEAR

T.J. Fast                       LAST TEAM: ALASKA ECHL

Kevin Roeder*             LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

Goalies:

Jeremy Smith*             LAST TEAM: CINCINNATI ECHL

Marc Cheverie             LAST TEAM: DENVER NCAA, NCAA GOALIE OTY

Cyclones release three

The Cyclones announced today, that they have released three players from their contracts to get the roster down to the 18 skaters and two goalies for the 2010-11 regular season.

Defenseman, Brad Schroeder played in both Pre-Season games and had a decent camp but failed to make the final roster.

Forwards, Brodie Sheahan and Ruben Begunts both were cut loose today after playing in both pre-season games, Brodie looked a little over matched against the ECHL caliber players. Ruben Begunts who came to Cincinnati on a Try-Out agreement after playing in the KHL last season, played in both games against Wheeling but looked a little lost in the North American game.

So what Rookies did make the Cyclones final roster?

Matt Butcher, who played in both Pre-Season games against Wheeling scoring a goal last night had a very good camp. Matt just finished his college career at the University of Northern Michigan. Butcher stands 6’2 205 and should be a good two way player for the Clones in 2010-11.

Sam D’Agostino, played in both Pre-Season games as well and showed enough through the camp to Head Coach, Jarrod Skalde to make him part of the 2010-11 roster. Sam is a 6’0 200 forward that can make many plays and has good speed for his size.

Adam Bartholomay, also a rookie who breaks camp with the Cyclones showed his ability as a forward and defenseman throughout camp and the pre-season games and should give some mobility for the Cyclones.

The diamond in the rough for the Cyclones rookies in 2010-11, Chris Minella. Chris comes to Cincy after four years at Notre Dame where he helped lead the Irish to the NCAA Championship in 2009. Minella is 6’2 205 pounds and is a very physical player as we saw in camp.

We will announce the final roster later today. STAY TUNED!

Cyclones strike Wheeling 5-1 in Pre-Season finale

Saturday night at Northland Ice Center in Cincinnati, The Clones' turned to rookie goalie, Marc Cheverie for their 2nd and final pre-season game against the Wheeling Nailers. The 1st period was controlled heavily by the Cyclones who outshot the Nailers 11-5. Matt Pierce got on the board first for the Cyclones at 8:51 burying a shot from the right circle from Dylan Hunter. Wheeling returned the favor at 13:04 when Andrew Orpik snuck a deke past Cheverie to tie the game at 1-1. However, at 15:08 the Cyclones regained the lead when Matt Butcher took control of a poke check pass in the defensive zone from Adam Bartholomay on a 3-on-1 break and fired the puck from the left hash past Patrick Killeen. The Clones went into the 1st intermission ahead 2-1.

There was a spark as the period ended when rookie forward, Chris Minella who has had a very strong camp checked Nailer, Marc Rechlitz into the boards. Rechlitz got up and off came the gloves between the 6'4 Nailer and 6'2 Minella in a very spirtied tussel.

In the 2nd period, early at 1:02, Dylan Hunter collected his first goal and second point of the game on a sweet wrist shot from the slot that beat Killeen high glove side to make it 3-1. Wheeling tried to return some momentum in their favor just nine seconds later as Cody Zubko and Mathieu Aubin dropped the gloves and traded punches.

The 3rd and final period, the Cyclones got some insurance when defenseman, T.J. Fast slapped home a point shot at 14:42 for a PP goal and 4-1 lead. Rookie forward Sam D’Agostino finished the scoring (and a strong training camp) with his first professional goal at 18:37. The Cyclones finished with a 32-27 lead in the shots on goal department.  They were 1-for-7 with the power play.  Wheeling finished the night 0-for-3 with the man advantage.

Marc Cheverie was solid in net in his first professional game stopping 26 of 27 Wheeling shots including a penalty shot.

3 STARS:

3rd- Matt Butcher (Goal)

2nd- Marc Cheverie (26 Saves)
1st- DYLAN HUNTER (Goal, Assist)

Reynolds called up to AHL's Rochester

Today, the Cincinnati Cyclones announced that forward, Scott Reynolds has recieved his first call-up to the American Hockey League as he was sent to the Rochester Americans and will make his debut this weekend when the Amerks face off against the Toronto Marlies.

“This is a very well deserved opportunity for Scott,” said Cyclones Head Coach Jarrod Skalde.  “He has a tremendous work ethic and knows what it takes to play our game at a very high level.  He’s been a great leader for us and I’m excited to see him get the chance to play at the American Hockey League level.”

Cyclones fall 4-1 in Pre-season opener

Friday night at WesBanco Arena the Wheeling Nailers prevailed in thier second pre-season game (1-1) beating the visiting Cyclones by a score of 4-1. In the first period the Cyclones looked to be the team with the early edge. While earning three power play chances in the period the Clones' could not convert. The Nailers opened the scoring in the 1st with a goal from Ben Street when a loose puck was sitting in front of the net of Clones goalie Jeremy Smith who stopped 32 of 36 shots. At the end of one it was the Nailers 1-0.

In the 2nd, the Nailers really took control over the Clones' who looked like the toll of the first game competition was settling in on them. The Clones again had three power play chances including a two minute 5-on-3 and could not score. Wheeling made it 2-0 when former Cyclone, Kyle Bushee caught a deflected puck off the stick of Ryan Del Monte and buried it behind Smith at 10:15. The Nailers again scored on the power play at 12:58 when Dan Henningson shot it over the glove of Smith from a shot in the slot. At the end of two periods the Nailers held a 3-0 over the Clones with a 21-13 shot lead.

In the final period the Nailers again were able to score on Jeremy Smith to make it 4-0, Mickeal Bedard caught a one-timer from Henningson to put the game out of reach at 9:48. The Clones showed some spark when defenseman, Doug Krantz dropped the gloves with Peter Merth. The Cyclones finally were able to capitalize on a power play at 17:49 of the 3rd when Ryan Del Monte put it past Wheeling goalie, Patrick Killeen. Assists went to Rookie, Brad Schroeder and captain Barret Ehgoetz.

The Cyclones (0-1) and Nailers (1-1) will be at it again tomorrow at 7:30 pm in Cincinnati at Northland Ice Arena. Forward, Dylan Hunter and J.C. Sawyer who were not in the line-up tonight will be dressed tomorrow for the Cyclones. The fans will also get a look at Rookie goalie, Marc Cheverie who will start in net.

1st Period Update

After the 1st period in Wheeling, WV at WesBanco Arena, the Nailers hold a 1-0 lead on the Cyclones. The Clones' had 3 power play opportunites in the 1st but were unable to capitalize on any of them. Wheeling took the 1-0 lead at 14:08 of the 1st when Ben Street found a loose puck in front of Jeremy Smith to knock home the goal. Shots favored the Nailers 11-7 in period 1. More updates after the 2nd.

Cyclones vs. Nailers Pre-Season Game 1 preview

Friday Night, the Cincinnati Cyclones will hit the ice for the first time in 2010-11 in a game situation as they travel to Wheeling, WV to play the Nailers at WesBanco Arena. This game also will be the first time in five years that Chuck Weber will not behind the Cyclones bench as he is now the Head Coach of the Rochester Americans of the AHL and former assistant Dean Stork is the head man with the Greenville Road Warriors in the ECHL. In steps new Head Coach, Jarrod Skalde for his first time as Cyclones coach. Skalde had spent the previous two years in the IHL as Head Coach of the Bloomington Praire Thunder.

Last season, the Cyclones were very good against the Nailers finishing with a regular season record of 44-25-3 as the Nailers finished at the bottom of the North Divison at 33-32-7. 2010-11 however, is a new year. The Cyclones now affiliates with the Florida Panthers and Nashville Predators. The Nailers... Well they landed an agreement with the former Cyclones affiliate the Montreal Canadiens.

NEW FACES: There are many new faces to the Cyclones for 2010-11.

J.C. Sawyer- The reigning ECHL Defenseman of The Year last season with the Toledo Walleye, Sawyer played in 67 games scoring 21 Goals with 38 assists for 59 Points, earning him the honor. This will be the 4th pro season for J.C.

Dylan Hunter- Dylan comes to the Cyclones after spending last season between the ECHL's Utah Grizzlies and the AHL with the Rochester Americans and Milwaukee Admirals. Hunter played 43 games with the Griz' last season scoring 18 Goals while chipping in 35 assists for 53 Points. While in the AHL, Dylan played in 19 games scoring 2 Goals and had 2 Assists.

T.J. Fast- T.J. was spending time last year with the Alaska Aces of the ECHL playing in 46 games scoring 10 Goals collecting 21 Assists for 31 Points. Playing in 18 games with the Peoria Rivermen of the AHL, Fast collected 1 assist.

Brodie Sheahan- Name sound familiar? Well, Brodie's older brother, Brock is entering his 2nd season with the Cyclones. Brodie comes to Cincinnati after playing four years at Holy Cross University. Playing in 100 college games, Brodie scored  40 goals and had 51 assists for 91 points.

Familiar Faces:

Jeremy Smith- The ECHL All-Star and CO-Playoff MVP and Kelly Cup Champ finished 2nd in the ECHL last year with a 2.67 GAA and finished 23-15-2 between the pipes for the Cyclones.

Matt Pierce- Matt returns for his 2nd season in the Queen City after playing in 60 games last season where he scored 28 goals while chipping 22 assists for 50 points. Matt was an ECHL All-Star last year in a game he led the American Conference with 3 assists for a 10-9 win.

Ryan Del Monte- Last season in mid-November after being traded from Johnstown in exchange for Bryan Marshall.  In 46 games with the Kelly Cup Champs, Del Monte amassed 27 points (9 goals, 18 assists) and 42 penalty-minutes (PIM). 

Chris Morehouse- After being acquired on December 1, 2009 in a trade with Alaska.  In 36 games with Cincinnati in 2009-10, Morehouse racked up 102 penalty-minutes.  Last season, in games that Morehouse was involved in a fight, the Cyclones posted an 11-2-0 record.

Brian O'Hanley-Entering his second full season with the Cyclones.  Last year, he appeared in 70 regular-season games netting 7 goals and 21 assists.  In January, 2010, O’Hanley ranked third among all ECHL players with a +11 plus/minus rating.  During the Kelly Cup Playoffs, he played in all 24 contests, finishing second among Cyclones defensemen with eight points (3 goals, 5 assists).
Brock Sheahan- His second with the Cyclones.  Last season, the five-foot-eleven defenseman was a mainstay on the Cincinnati blue-line, skating in 71 of 72 regular season games and all 24 postseason tilts. 

Doug Krantz- Doug had a shortened season last year due to injury he played in 19 games with the Clones. Krantz scored 4 Goals and had 5 Assists for 9 points.

Barret Ehgoetz- The name we all know and love. Barret returns to the Cyclones as the captain for a 3rd year and 5th in a Cyclones uniform. Ehgoetz collected an assist last season that gave him the All-Time leading scorer mark in Cyclones history. In 271 games with the Clones' Barret has scored 81 goals and had 152 assists for a staggering 233 points. Eggo as he is known has collected two Kelly Cup Championships in his four previous years.

Scott Reynolds- Renny returns for his 4th year with the Clones. In 73 games last year, Scott collected 23 goals and 33 assists for 56 points. Reynolds also has two Kelly Cup Rings.

Mathieu Aubin- Mati returns for his 3rd year as a Cyclone. After a trade in late March last season, Aubin played in 9 games for the Clones' collecting a goal and 5 assists for 6 points. Matty also has two Kelly Cup Rings.

We will have complete coverage of the Cyclones vs. Nailers game tomorrow and Saturday immediately following the game right here on CYCLONES LIVE!

LET ME HEAR YOU CYCLONES FANS!!!!
"LET'S PLAY HOCKEY!!!"

Final day of camp before pre-season

In day 7 of Cyclones training camp the club worked on something they were mediocre at best last season. The power play. With the first pre-season game tomorrow against the Wheeling Nailers at WesBanco Arena the Clones' went to work hard today and Coach Skalde was very happy with what he saw. "The talent level has improved a lot this week,” said Skalde.  “The overall level of competition was at a great level today.  It was a good power play and penalty killing day to get some of those basics down going into this weekend.”
For a third day in a row a new player was donning a Cyclones jersey. Rookie goalie, Marc Cheverie. The former Denver Pioneer was assigned to the Cyclones from the Rochester Amerks after spending last week and most of this week in the AHL camp. We asked Marc today about the transition from the NCAA level to the pro's. “It’s tough to say right now because I haven’t played a game yet,” said Cheverie.  “Practices have been fine and I’m excited to get the season started.  I anticipate having an easy transition, but it’s always difficult to step up.  I’m not going to take anything for granted…I know it’s going to be an adjustment.”

Head Coach, Jarrod Skalde believes Marc has the intensity and work ethic to not only succeed in the ECHL but beyond. “He’s a young guy starting his pro career and I know he’s excited to get a full game in this weekend,” said Skalde.  “I’m excited to have him.  I know he’s a kid who wants to work hard and understands that work has to be done here in Cincinnati before any progress can be made to the big club in Rochester.”

During the past four seasons the Cyclones have had one thing that was a certain. Solid goaltending. During those Chuck Weber era' years the goalies usually split time between the pipes so with the reigning NCAA Goalie of The Year and reigning ECHL Playoff MVP and ECHL All-Star, Jeremy Smith how does Skalde plan to utilize the dynamic duo?

“It’s something that’s going to play itself out.  I believe Smith and Marc will determine that,” said Skalde. We’re here to win hockey games and we want them to improve.  But at the end of the day, it’s who is getting the job done for us.  They both understand that.  It’s on reward basis and if you’re going, you’ve got the hot hand, you’re going to be starting.”

Day 6 of Camp complete

Wednesday, continued to see new faces on the ice for the Clones’as reigning ECHL Defenseman of The Year, J.C. Sawyer and forward, Dylan Hunter made their debut on the ice after spending last week in camp with the AHL Milwaukee Admirals.

The reactions to these two players were as expected, both big mobile players with scoring ability. Sawyer will provide the punch from the blue line with the man advantage. The same could be said for Dylan Hunter who has ability to be a top-line center.

Head Coach, Jarrod Skalde spoke about both players. “They’re both offensively gifted players,” said Skalde.  “I know Sawyer had a good camp up in Milwaukee so we could see his talent level for sure.  He’s going to really help our power play.  We’re going to touch on some things over the next couple of days before we get into the weekend.   He moves the puck well and has a great shot from the point.”

                  

Even with the tramendous stats offensively, many people point out the +/- of -10 and assume he is not a very good defender. While, Sawyer knows his skills need to improve on that side of the ice there were many circumstances that went into the season.

“You look around, there were a lot of minus guys in Toledo, it wasn’t just myself,” said Sawyer.  “Obviously it’s something I have to look at and something I’ve got to improve upon.  I look to be a plus player while having the same type of impact on the offense.” This is a fair point. 25 players for the Toledo Walleye were in the minus category.

Dylan Hunter’s scouting reports are just as high. Many project him as the top-line center for the Cyclones. Hunter joined camp today and impressed early on with his speed and puck control.  Today’s practice focused a lot on breakouts and offensive zone cycling.  Hunter did a solid job of jumping right into the mix. Like many of the guys have noticed, Hunter made comment on the size of the team.  “There are some big boys out there,” said Hunter.  “Most of our team looks pretty mobile, and that’s good to have for the year so you can intimidate some other teams.”

The Cyclones open their pre-season on Friday at WesBanco Arena against former Cyclones goalie Robert Mayer and the Wheeling Nailers.

Rochester assigns T.J. Fast and NCAA Goalie of The Year

The Cincinnati Cyclones defending ECHL Kelly Cup Champions and proud affiliate of the Nashville Predators and Florida Panthers announced today that they have recieved, Defenseman T.J. Fast and Goaltender Marc Cheverie.

Fast a former 2005 2nd round NHL selection of the LA Kings, comes to Cincinnati after spending the last two years splitting time between Alaska (ECHL) and Peoria (AHL).  While with the Aces, Fast finished second among all team defensemen – posting 31 points (10 goals, 21 assists) in 46 games.  Upon being called up to the AHL level, Fast notched one assist in 18 contests.  Before turning pro Fast played two years with the Tri-City Americans (WHL) and two years with the Denver Pioneers (NCAA)

Cheverie was a 7th round pick in the 2006 NHL Draft by the Florida Panthers and just finished his Senior season at Denver University. In 2009-10, he posted a 24-6-3 record, a 2.08 goals-against average (GAA), a 93.2% save percentage, and six shutouts.  Among other accolades, he was named a Hobey Baker Award Top-10 finalist, a Reebok First-Team West All-American, and the Inside College Hockey Goaltender of the Year.  In his two seasons as a starter, the six-foot-two netminder led the Pioneers to a 47-18-8 record with a 2.22 GAA.

Day 5 of Camp complete. Matt Butcher signs with Clones'

                                                          Chris Morehouse

Tuesday with several additional players added from AHL teams were on the ice getting prepared for Friday's pre-season game against the Wheeling Nailers at WesBanco Arena. Tough guy, Chris Morehouse returned to the ice after spending last week in camp with the Peoria Rivermen. Matt Pierce who was in camp with the Rochester Americans returned to Cyclones camp today and looked as if he hasn't missed a step. Picking up where he left off, Pierce was skating well and looked ready for 2010. “It felt good to get out there with the guys and see a bunch of the same faces as last year,” said Pierce. “It was your average first day….just getting the legs underneath you and knocking the rust off. I think it went pretty well.”

The Cyclones, also agreed to a contract with former Northern Michigan Wildcat and 2005 NHL Draft pick, 6'2 205 pound Matt Butcher. Butcher played 125 games in four years at Northern Michigan scoring 15 goals and collected 44 assists for 59 points. Matt was in camp last week with Pierce in Rochester. For his size, Butcher moves very well and shoots extremely well.

                                               Matt Butcher                                                      

It’s the overall size and physicality of this team that excites people the most. As I mentioned earlier in camp, rookie forward Chris Minella continues to impress with his strength and skating ability – especially for a bigger guy. You would never guess that he was a first year player. He and fellow-CCHA’er Matt Butcher threw their weight around in one of the drills. I can’t wait to see them both in the preseason games this weekend.

Brett Robinson assigned by Milwaukee

2009 Kelly Cup Champ hero, Brett Robinson was re-assigned to Cincinnati today from the Milwaukee Admirals of the AHL. Robinson, an Alton, Ontario native, returns to the Cyclones for his second season of work after an outstanding rookie campaign.  The 5-foot-11 forward ranked second among all Cyclones first-year players with 34 points (15 goals, 19 assists) in 60 games a year ago.

During the postseason, Robinson finished second among all Cyclones players with nine goals – none bigger than the game-winning tally in the Kelly Cup-clinching Game 5 against Idaho on May 21, 2010.

Day 4 of Camp shows promise with AHL assignments

                                                           Brodie Sheahan
Day four of Cyclones Traning Camp really took off as the eight players returned from the AHL hit the ice to join the rest of the team for camp. With those AHL caliber players on the ice, the passes were more crisp, routes were more precise and shots were very accurate. Even some of the rookies like the younger brother of Defenseman, Brock Sheahan, Brodie benefited well.

“It’s definitely at another level,” said Brodie.  “With all of those guys down from AHL camp, it was better hockey out there today.  A couple of the veterans have helped me out and told me what I need to do; things like stopping in front of the net, shooting the puck, and skating hard - all the little things that coaches like to see out there.”
For the first time in thier professional careers the Sheahan brothers are on the same team. The eldest brother, Brock explained, “I am really excited that he’s here.  We’re living together too,” said Brock.  “It’s the first time that we’ve played together since novice when out dad was coaching, so it has been a long time.  I did have to kick him out of my room, though.  He took the big room, so we’re making a switch there.  But Brodie is a good player and I think he’ll help the team a lot.”

Head Coach, Jarrod Skalde is even impressed with the young Sheahan skills. “I think he’s doing well, he’s obviously a skilled player with lots of energy,” said Skalde.  “There are a lot of elements to the pro game that we’re going to see how he comes along as the preseason continues.  That will tell a lot.”

The early part of practice was focused on breakouts and offensive zone attacks. Later on the teams split up into offense and defense and worked on drills. We ran into 2009 ECHL All-Star, Matt Pierce who did not appear on the ice today but said he will be ready tomorrow for Day 5. Goaltender, Jeremy Smith back from Milwaukee's camp, looked very good in his first day back in Cincinnati as well.

                                                         Jeremy Smith

Day 3 of Camp complete, Agree to Try-Out with Russian

The first weekend of Cyclones training camp came to a close today at Northland Ice Center. After yesterday's off-ice training cancelled due to rain, today's practice featured a lot of skating with a very high intensity. Coach Skalde opened practice with give and go's and defensive zone drills. " With a shorter ice session, we wanted to keep the tempo up. Today the drills were intended to do that, but as fatigue was setting in passes got off and routes got shorter, but I thought overall we had a good day." Said, Skalde.

Practice wore on and things got a little more complicated for the players. They worked on timing drills and if the passes weren't crisp it led to some collisions. Besides a few minor run-in's the players were able to move through the drills without a hitch.

Forward, Adam Bartholomay who has impressed throughout the weekend of camp seems to be improving day by day. “I think we’re all getting back to the groove of things.  I definitely feel more comfortable,” said Bartholomay.  “Everything seems to be coming together as the weekend progresses.  I am just going keep doing what I do and try to feel out the other guys to see how they play and hopefully we’ll continue to come together as a team.”


The Cyclones also agreed to a deal with Russian forward, Ruben Begunts. Ruben played 7 games in the KHL last season with CSKA-Moscow and also played 16 games in the Russian MHL tallying 5 goals and 3 assists for 8 points in those 23 games with 39 Penalty Minutes.

                                                                  RUBEN BEGUNTS

Eight return from AHL Camps, Five released

Today, the Cyclones announced that eight of thier players have returned from AHL camps and have released, Jon Higgins, Anthony Iqatino, Ryan Hitchcock, Eric Slias and Ted Nischan from their try-out offers. The Clones' recieved back from the Rochester Americans camp forwards, Matt Pierce and Ryan Del Monte and also recieved back Defenseman, Brian O'Hanley. The Milwaukee Admirals have sent back forward Dylan Hunter, Defenseman J.C. Sawyer and Goaltender, Jeremy Smith. Forward, Chris Morehouse returns from the Peoria Rivermen camp and Defenseman, Brock Sheahan returns from his skate at camp with the Manitoba Moose.

Del Monte, a native of Mississauga, Ontario, joined the 2009-10 Cyclones in mid-November after being traded from Johnstown in exchange for Bryan Marshall.  In 46 games with the Kelly Cup Champs, Del Monte amassed 27 points (9 goals, 18 assists) and 42 penalty-minutes (PIM).  In the postseason, the third-year pro continued to rack up time in the “sin-bin,” getting whistled for 41 PIM in just 21 games. 

Pierce, an Arnprior, Ontario native, returns for his second full season with the Cyclones after notching 50 points (28 goals, 22 assists) in 60 games last year.  He experienced especially good success in January, netting nine goals during that month – which ranked fifth best in the ECHL.  The 25-year-old was one of two Cyclones players named to the 2010 ECHL All-Star Game (Jeremy Smith was the other).  During the contest, Pierce had a team-high three assists for the American Conference which went on to win 10-9 in a shootout.
O’Hanley, a third-year blue-liner, will begin his second full season with the Cyclones.  Last year, he appeared in 70 regular-season games netting 7 goals and 21 assists.

Hunter, a ninth-round Buffalo Sabres 2004 draft choice, comes to Cincinnati after spending most of the 2009-10 campaign playing with the Utah Grizzlies.  While out west, he finished fourth on the team with 53 points (18 goals, 35 assists) in 43 contests.  The six-foot, 210-pound forward also logged 19 games with two different AHL teams last season – 10 with the Rochester Americans and nine with the Milwaukee Admirals.  Ironically, both are Cyclones affiliates this season.  In total, he has played in 202 career AHL games, notching 95 points (33 goals, 62 assists) and 139 penalty minutes.

Sawyer, a Saint John, New Brunswick native, had a career year with Toledo in 2009-10 by pacing all ECHL defenseman in goals (21), points (59), and game-winnings goals (7).  His 38 assists ranked him second among league blue-liners, while he finished tied for fourth with 18 power-play assists and fifth with 24 power-play points.  A 2004 fifth-round draft pick of the Minnesota Wild, Sawyer was chosen as a starter for the 2010 ECHL All-Star Game and served as captain for the American Conference.

Smith is back between the pipes with the Cyclones after an award-winning rookie season in 2009-10.  The Dearborn, Michigan native posted a 23-15-0-2 record during the regular season with two shutouts, earning him a spot in the ECHL All-Star Game.  In the postseason, Smith went 9-7-1 with a 2.67 GAA, a 90.7 save percentage, and one shutout.  Upon the completion of the Kelly Cup Finals, Smith was awarded Co-Playoff MVP accolades.

Morehouse will skate in his first full season with the Cyclones after being acquired on December 1, 2009 in a trade with Alaska.  In 36 games with Cincinnati in 2009-10, Morehouse racked up 102 penalty-minutes.  Last season, in games that Morehouse was involved in a fight, the Cyclones posted an 11-2-0 record.

Sheahan enters his third year as a professional, his second with the Cyclones.  Last season, the five-foot-eleven defenseman was a mainstay on the Cincinnati blue-line, skating in 71 of 72 regular season games and all 24 postseason tilts. 

Day 2 of Camp Complete.

                                           

Day two of Traning Camp for the 2010-11 Cyclones came to a close today at Northland Ice Arena with today's main focus being Forechecking, Backchecking and some 2 on 1 drills there was a lot of puck movement going on throughout the practice which did lead to more physical play. "The objective today was to push the pace from day 1." Said, Coach Skalde who was very impressed with the speed he saw today.

Veteran and two time Kelly Cup Champion, Mathieu Aubin seemed to have an extra step this morning and found his way into scoring areas. "Every day i'm feeling a litle bit better and going quicker. The boys are working hard and I feel like i'm going to improve. I'm working with the team off the ice too." Said, Mathieu. "I like to be the clown in the locker room bringing the boys together and build chemistry." Says, Aubin. "There are a lot of leaders on this club. I like to lead by working hard on the ice and to do the little things for the team."

Cyclones four-year veteran, Scott Reynolds has also led by example through his career as well. During training camp that hasn't changed. Coach Skalde has turned to Scotty to lead drills and help the younger players. Skalde is very happy to have the veterans with leadership like this team has. "Look at Ehgoetz, Renny, Krantz and Mathieu, they all do a great job of setting a tone for the team. We look to play very up-tempo and that starts in practice."

Day 1 of Training Camp complete

It was early this morning at Northland Ice Arena as the 2010-11 Cyclones stepped onto the ice for their first day of camp. Head Coach, Jarrod Skalde led a very spirited practice in his first day as coach. Rookies looking to make the team like Sam D'Agostino and Chris Minella made very good impressions through the first day. Both stand over 6'0 and weigh more than 200 pounds, Yet they move down the ice very smoothly and quick.

Minella impressed well as did D'Agostino with their ability to shoot the puck."Chris and Sam both stood out, They look like they are ready to play at this level. Both of them are big and strong and they move well with the puck." Said, Head Coach Skalde. Fore-Checking and entries into the zone were key parts of the practice today with lots of dump and chase and crisp passing. The occasional shot was taken on goalies Axelson and Nischan as well.

As the players came onto the ice throughout practice there was a very high tempo of play and it seemed it never diminished throughout the entire skate. "Lot of energy, We all were excited to get on the ice and work off the rust from the summer.It was a little rough but we are going to get even better as things go on." Said, captain Barret Ehgoetz.

Clones Announced Training Camp Roster, Sign Rookie

                                                                BRAD SCHROEDER

The Cyclones announced their Training Camp roster today which features 17 players. The Cyclones also came to terms with Rookie defenseman,  Brad Schroeder. Schroeder a 6'3 defenseman played the last four years at University of Princeton. He played 106 games in his college career and was All-ECAC twice. "He has the potential to be very good at this level. He's very defensive-minded and he's a good person." Clones' head coach, Jarrod Skalde said.

Sam D'Agostino played three seasons at the NCAA level with UMASS-AMHEARST and UMASS-LOWELL registering four points in 46 games. Sam is 6'0 200 pounds.

6'2 190 pound forward, Eric Salias also was invited to Traning camp after four seasons at Brown University playing in 71 games for the Bears amassing 22 points in his four years. He spent time in the USHL with Cyclone teammate, Kevin Roeder before arriving at Brown.

Defenseman, Mark Van Vliet who played 6 games as a Cyclone in 2009 scoring one goal spent his 2009-10 season in the SPHL (Southern Professional Hockey League) with the Knoxville Ice Bears playing in 51 games scoring 10 goals and collected 27 assists for 37 points in those 51 games. While also racking up 58 penalty minutes.

Defenseman, Ryan Hitchcock comes to Traning Camp from Marian College where he played three seasons of Varsity hockey. Playing in 83 games during his career the 6'2 defenseman scored 8 Goals and registered 17 Assists for 25 Points. Hitchcock also played for the Witchita Wildcats where Clones' forward Anthony Iquatino played last season.

The Cyclones also invited goalies, Tom Nischan and Cincinnati native, Justin Axelson to camp.