Mitch's Musings

Hey what if Bomber Coach Paul La Police and GM Joe Mack are good at their jobs - and nice guys - as they appear but the team doesn't win very many games in 2010? Are you okay with the Bombers missing the playoffs again if it means the club will be strong in future years and well led?

The reason I'm asking is because there seems to be a whole lot of uneasiness around these 2-and-5 Bombers even though a new regime is still settling in, even though the team is dealing with a series of serious injuries, and even though they're going about their business professionally without the craziness of a year ago.

I know, I know - winning is all that matters in pro sports and so far this bunch hasn't done much winning. You could say they're last year without the off-field distractions, but what I'm saying is at some point don't you have to give a reasonable group a reasonable amount of time to show what they can do?

How much time? Mike Kelly seemed on his way to a second season before running afoul with the law - why not let 2010 playout before hitting the panic button?

The suspense is over...QB Buck Pierce will start tomorrow night against Hamilton, his first start since going down with a right knee injury in Week 3 against those same Ticats.

Assuming Pierce is fit-enough, the idea is that he's the guy to find that "winning edge" those few yards that result in those key points for a team that's been coming close but not getting over the top. Make no mistake Steven Jyles impressed and showed he is capable, but the sense is the Bombers are looking for more and that's where Pierce comes in. That might seem like a lot to ask of a dinged QB who could be a little rusty, but reading between the line this week I'm pretty sure Buck sees himself as capable of being a difference maker and now is the time.

At 2-and-4 with the season series on the line against Hamilton and games against Montreal and Saskatchewan (x 2) on the way there's no time like the present for Buck and this Bomber team to step up.

Welcome back Buck, it's no easy assignment but the payoff could be big.

The Blue Bombers dumped slumping place-kicker Alexis Serna today replacing him with former University of Utah All-American Louie Sakoda.

The move comes after Serna missed from 28 and 32 yards in Saturday's loss to Hamilton, misses that dropped the third-year CFL'er to 8 of 14 for the season and crushed his Coach's confidence in him.

The change is being viewed by some as something done to send a message -- a message like "losing will not be tolerated". But Bomber Coach Paul La Police wants everyone to know his players will only be dumped if they have a run of errors and that change is all about making the team better not "sending messages" or "scaring" people into performing.

Speaking of performing, QB Buck Pierce was performing quite nicely at practice today and could start Friday against Hamilton. The club is watching Pierce closely and Coach La Police says the only way Pierce plays Friday is if he has the mobility needed to protect himself on the field.

It may be the dog days of summer but that doesn't mean things are quiet.

The Bombers are trying to sort out how to turn some impressive stats into points and wins with Hamilton here on Friday night...local track athletes and swimmers are impressing on the international stage... and our Pee Wee and Bantam Box Lacrosse teams won medals at the Nationals.

The Pee Wee team captured the B-side Gold medal with a win over New Brunswick, while the Bantam team earned B-side Bronze - also with a victory against N-B ... well done!

A couple of hockey notes for you too, Winnipeg's Riley Cote has retired to take a coaching job with the Flyers' AHL affiliate and ex-Jet Teemu Selanne is coming back for another season with the Ducks. The 40 year-old had 21 goals in 54 game last season.

Okay, it may seem early to have the full-blown fever but if you love soccer the way I do it's definitely normal to be running more than a little bit hot with a World Cup so close to kicking off!

Just wanted to let you know I'll be working with CBC Sports out of Toronto for most of the next few months, including working as Host of the morning 2010 FIFA World Cup Coverage starting June 11th.

For all the need-to-know World Cup info check this out:

http://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/fifaworldcup/

And be sure to keep it on CBC morning, noon, and night from June 11th - July 11th!

I know I'm not breaking any news here, but how about our very own Jonathan Toews! J-T has been amazing in these playoffs...if you've watched even a couple of periods of his work you know that.

The Hawks captain is leading by example with a NHL-best 23 points, a League-high 14 assists, and a whopping 5 powerplay goals...and most importantly Chicago is winning. The Blackhawks have the Sharks on the ropes and the kid from St Vital is leading the charge.

Some have said Winnipeg thinks too highly of Toews because he's one us, but now without a doubt we are talking about one of the best players in the game and he's 22 years-old!

At this rate, the Hawks are the faves to win the Stanley Cup meaning young Mr. Toews would accept the coveted mug from Gary Bettman and who knows -- he's been so good he just might have a Conn Smythe trophy to go along with it!

The Memorial Cup is only two games old, but the Brandon Wheat Kings have already been through alot.

Game One was okay for about two minutes and then the defending champs from Windsor went off for four goals in the blink of an eye. One long, painful nightmare later it was over... 9-3 Spitfires. Not the way to come off of a 20 day layoff, not the way to gain confidence, not the way to whip that part of the province into a frenzy!

Skip ahead to Sunday, and a matchup with Moncton, and the Wheat Kings managed to score first and managed to keep the puck out of their net...all game! In the end it was 4-0 Brandon and just like that hopes for a playoff spot are high.

Wheaties coach/gm Kelly McCrimmon was low key after practice today, but he made it clear Sunday's win was a start. The win was something to build on, not the be all or end all, just a good effort that he'd like to see lead to a few more. In other words, enough with the downs and ups already!

Tuesday Brandon could get all the help they need to advance with a Moncton loss to Windsor, but the point remains...keep things moving in the right direction and see where it takes you.

As you might have noticed we've got a new poll question. The old poll question asked if you thought the NHL would come back to Winnipeg and 56 percent of you said no.

So, I'm wondering if you simply don't feel the NHL will ever come back or if you're just discouraged by the roller coaster we've all been on with the talk of the Coyotes (Jets) leaving Arizona for Manitoba.

My feeling is Winnipeg has willing and able ownership, a quality facility, and a history of passion for hockey ... pretty important tools for bringing big league hockey back and those things haven't changed with what's un-folding in Glendale.

On the other hand, I have concerns about whether or not people like you and me can afford enough NHL tickets to keep a team going and I'm also not sure about the level of corporate support available in our Province. Then there are things like the dollar which is strong now, but may not always be, and factors like the salary cap.

All in all though, it seems to me there are enough reasons to believe in NHL at MTS Centre and being discouraged only means you haven't been listening to your sports cliches - remember "never get to high, and never get too low and take it one day at a time."

Manitoba brought home a trio of titles from the Western Canadian Senior Indoor National Championships (April 28 - May 2)  in Calgary (courtesy Tennis Manitoba)

Peter Otto and Geoff Kirbyson defended their over-40 doubles title, while Ray Daumler won the over-45 singles and Terry Langan and Klaus Wrogemann won the over-65 doubles. The three belts equals the most ever won by the province at a senior national event, matching last year's total. But it could have been even higher - Jason Whitaker lost the men's over 40 singles in a third set tie-break, Langan and Wrogemann lost in the over-60 doubles final and Daumler and Kirbyson lost in the over 35-doubles final.

Sr. Squash Nationals - Manitoba brings home 2 Gold, 3 Silver & 1 Bronze (courtesy Sport Manitoba)

Melina Turk and Rick Borland both won national titles this past weekend in the Women's A and Men's 60 + categories at the Senior National Squash Championships that were held in Vancouver, BC.  Alana Miller placed 2nd in the Open event , while the other two silver medals went to Evan Mancer in the Men's 35+ category and Henry Thiessen in the 65+ category.  Manitoba's bronze medal went to Trevor Borland in the Men's 30+ category.

Alright, one crazy round of the Stanley Cup playoffs down and three more to go. Let's see...oh yeah predictions. How did they go?

Well, I was four out of eight in the first round. Sorry but I didn't see the top three seeds in the East getting sent home, and I thought the Nashville D might shut down the Hawks attack but that didn't happen.

How about you? Well our poll says you liked Phoenix to win the West and we both know now that's not going to happen (though it looked like it could for a while). As for the East? You liked four teams and two of them are still around -- Pittsburgh and Montreal. Which means you'll see one of your picks with a shot at it.

Oh one more thing, when it comes to Stanley Cup Champ predictions...yeah I won't get that one either since the Caps ran into Jaro Halak and the Habs. Let the guessing game continue ... it's more fun that way anyway!

You said Phoenix would win the Western Conference and tonight we'll find out if you got it right. Remember the Coyotes got 40% of the vote on our "who will win the West poll". But what about the East?

Well it's too close to say. According to our poll, you're split among four teams ... Washington, New Jersey, Pittsburgh, and Montreal. While we know for sure New Jersey won't be moving on (one of a few is was wrong about), Pittsburgh already has advanced and we'll have to wait until tomorrow to see if it's Montreal or Washington staying alive.

I can't say I blame anybody for being unsure about how things will go, afterall if the Caps lose out to the Habs the top three will be gone in the East.

Still with the East, Boston announced Marc Savard (concussion) has been cleared and will return for the second round...a nice pickup for a team that has to be feeling good about itself.

It's that time of year...well kinda. That time when some curling teams re-tool for the next season, and this time one of the Province's best known teams ever is shaking things up.

Jennifer Jones has dropped third Cathy Overton-Claphan in favor of Kaitlyn Lawes. The decision comes as a shock to Cathy "O" who says she didn't see it coming and is fresh off a season that saw her earn an All-Star at the Scotties as the St Vital rink won its third straight National title.

But, a poor showing by the team at the Oympic trials and a disappointing bronze medal finish at the Worlds must have got Jones thinking...I know her decision to focus on reaching the Olympics in 2014 was front-and-centre in all of this.

Jennifer said today that the team has won all there is to win (Provincials, Nationals, Worlds) but never an Olympics, and with the start of a new Olympic cycle upon us it was time to decide about a long-term plan.

That decision leaves Jones with a young player to phase in at the highest level (and time to do so), and it leaves Overton-Clapham with alot of uncertainty and plenty of hurt to deal with. Cathy is clearly struggling to understand what's happened, but one thing is clear she feels good about her game and still loves to compete.

So really while the Jones team takes a new direction, so does their highly accomplished third. It will be interesting to see where those directions lead.

Missed it by that much! The Manitoba Moose were a goal away from tying their opening round series with the Conference-best Hamilton Bulldogs last night. A shot-wide, a little luck on a deflection, a better screen away from dumping the Dogs and being set to drop the puck on a best-of-three with the opener at MTS Centre Friday night. Instead the Canucks' top farm team is in trouble, on the ropes, down-and-nearly out ... you get the point.

Actually, the Moose could have been home and cooled last night if they'd just made their 4-2 lead stand up. Instead they got trading chances and found themselves in Overtime where anything can happen. It's not like a Scott Arniel team to get into that kind of game, but then this isn't exactly Scott Arniel's kind of team, nor is it Craig Heisinger's -- this is a plan B, or plan C, or some other plan than plan A team.

A zillion man-games lost to injury and call-ups later this late-season version of the Moose is the very best the club can muster and it's got its pluses and minuses. On the plus-side, Scott Arniel says that much of the team doesn't know any better than to get over the heartbreak of Game Four, on the minus side it's that lack of experienced that helped grease the wheels when things slipped away to put the team on the brink. In fairness to those young additions though, Coach Arniel says some of the veteran guys played a part in the loss too.

Regardless, it's now win Friday or the season is over. Nobody expects this Moose team to challenge for the Calder Cup, but all kinds of folks would like to see the team finish strong because when they're done, they're done and that makes for a long wait till next season.

The Phoenix Coyotes will represent the West in the Stanley Cup Finals, that's what you said through our on-line poll. Fourty Percent of the voters say the 'Yotes will emerge from a very competitive conference to try and bring the Cup back from the East. The Sharks, Canucks, and Wings were next at 20 percent of the votes apiece.

I'm not sure if it's the former-Jets influence at work or just that these Coyotes are good, but they've got alot of support here. Fifty wins during the regular season, lots of speed, skill, and chemistry are also good reasons to like the Coyotes but they're in a dog-fight with those Red Wings so we'll have to see if they survive or how much they've got left if they do.

As for the Wings, Sharks, and Canucks? Well it's easy to make a case for all three moving on too - I know I did with Detroit reaching the Finals. But maybe the biggest thing in all of this guess work is how things are still pretty tight...only Vancouver will be in real trouble if they lose tonight, the others are down to best of threes.

It's lots of fun so far, as for the East? Let me know, cast your votes!

The Manitoba Moose are back in their North Division Semifinal thanks to a 7-2 win in Game 3, and thanks to taking a page out of the Bulldogs book on dominating opponents.

A game after Manitoba was blown out by an over-powering Hamilton powerplay, the Moose got their extra-man attack going and scored four times on the PP to cut the Bulldogs series' lead 2-1. Rookie Jordan Schroeder struck for 2/3rds of his first pro hat-trick on the man-advantage en route to a four-point night and Guillaiume Desbiens also had four points (including a back-breaking SHG early in the third period).

The Moose had the passion, the ability to finish chances, and the clutch goaltending needed to reverse the effects of the Game Two debacle and now they've got a chance to take a series lead back to Southern Ontario for Game Six.

But one game is only one game and the Moose know it. No one knows that better than Scott Arniel and now the challenge is to compete with the same energy and finish chances Wednesday night. You know, go all "Bulldog" again.

The First Round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs is just nicely underway and lots can change but so far WOW!

Every series has seen things tied after the opening two games, the first time that's happen in thirty years according to one source. And more than just even in games won, the contests themselves have been nailbiters. How about 13 one-goal games over the first 20 playoff starts, seven of them going to overtime!!

Even the games that aren't close are close -- like Colorado's 1-0 OT win over San Jose that saw the Sharks badly outplay the Avs but the teams remained deadlocked until Dan Boyle's hard-luck deflected clearing attempt ended it.

And what's really making the post-season fun so far is the speed and skill on display. It's often a bit of a shock to see the hightened intensity of the playoffs after a marathon regular season but this Spring has been something special so far. Let's hope it continues because there's still a long way to go.

Oh, and by the way...that "too close to call" headline is meant to give me a little breathing room on my opening round picks.

Congrats to Sport Manitoba on the opening of the new Sport For Life Centre today! Also, a big way-to-go to everyone honoured last night at the Sport Manitoba Sport For Life Gala...here's a list of the award winners courtesy of Sport Manitoba.

And no, I don't want to talk about my Stanley Cup Playoff picks...hey, they're best-of-seven series give me a chance!

Calm Air Junior Team of the Year - Canada Games women's volleyball team

This volleyball team was assembled to represent Manitoba at the 2009 Canada Games, but before that they endured a busy summer playing in tournaments in Calgary and Fort Lauderdale. While in Florida, they finished in second place against junior clubs from the U.S. and Europe. Their hard work and training shone through at the Canada Games as they won the gold.



Great-West Life Volunteer of the Year Award - Peter Wight (tenpin bowling)

Wight has used his experience in bowling to help coach others in the sport, including visually impaired athletes in a local ten-pin bowling league. He is constantly trying to help raise funds and awareness for these same athletes. As second vice-president of Manitoba's Tenpin Federation, this nominee is an influential member of the sport's governing body and oversees tournaments and bowling leagues in the province. From bowling



Great West-Life Youth Volunteer of the Year Award - Casey Stafford (high school athletics - Stonewall)

Stafford is an exemplary student-athlete at Stonewall Collegiate, where she keeps very busy competing in volleyball, track, badminton, and soccer. She also uses her leadership skills by helping to organize school events and fundraisers. She was selected as a member of the Manitoba High School Athletics Association's board of directors and also volunteered in the influential Champions program.



Official of the Year Award - David Petursson (curling - Winnipeg)

Petursson was the head official at six elite curling championships in 2009 and 2010, including the world women's curling championships in March. This official is also a coach, helping instruct teams that have competed in provincial championships.



Manitoba Lotteries Male Coach of the Year - Rob Meakin (curling - Winnipeg)

Meakin has combined parenting and coaching with great success, helping his daughter Breanne's rink to a junior provincial curling title this year and an impressive finish at nationals. After spending years coaching internationally, Meakin has dedicated himself to providing elite coaching to teams from this province, helping to raise the bar for curling in Manitoba.



Manitoba Lotteries Female Coach of the Year - Khadija Cutcher (synchro swimming - Winnipeg, MB)

Formerly a competitive synchronized swimmer, this coach has used her experiences to help her serve as a role model and leader for Winnipeg's synchronized swimming community.



Male Junior Athlete of the Year - Kurt Goodrich (football - West St. Paul)

When Goodrich wasn't competing in 100 and 200-metre events as a high school track star for West Kildonan Collegiate, this junior athlete was playing receiver for the West K Wolverines. He co-led the Winnipeg High School Football League in touchdowns and helped his team to a perfect record in the Currie Division. Also named the offensive player of the year in his division.



Female Junior Athlete of the Year - Chantal Vanlandegham (swimming - Winnipeg)

This record-breaking swimmer had a season to remember in 2009, highlighted by carrying the flag for Manitoba at the closing ceremonies of the Summer Games. She has been recognized by Swim Manitoba as the outstanding female youth swimmer of the year.



Tom Longboat Award - Josh Ahmo (football - Winnipeg)

Josh plays possibly the least noticeable but most important positions in football: offensive line. And he plays it well for the Vincent Massey Trojans. The right tackle was previously selected to the provincial under-17 team that competed in the 2009 Football Canada Cup and was also awarded top O-lineman honours in the Winnipeg High School Football League.



Tom Longboat Award - Brigitte Lacquette (hockey - Winnipeg)

This hockey star helped her midget team to a National Championship at the ESSO Cup and earned top defenceman honours in the process. She also represented Canada at the under-18 championships in Germany where they won silver. Committed to the University of Manitoba next year, this right-shooting defenceman could be a regular on the blue line of the Bisons and Hockey Canada for years to come.

After 30 x 82 games the NHL the field of Stanley Cup contenders has been cut to 16. Tonight the second season starts with the Penguins hoping to defend their title, but with plenty of opposition looking to take it away from them.

In the East:

(1) Washington v (8) Montreal: Ovie and the Caps may be unsettled in goal but they shouldn't have much trouble with the Habs.

(2) New Jersey v (7) Philadelphia: The Devils may have been dominated by the Flyers in the regular season, but I expect New Jersey to be too much for Philly.

(3) Buffalo v (6) Boston: The Sabres have seen Ryan Miller cool off a little but he's been very impressive overall and should make life tough for a Boston team that can't score. At the other end Tuukka Rask has had an impressive season too, and could extend the B's hopes if they can score enough. Sabres advance.

(4) Pittsburgh v (5) Ottawa: Sid the Kid, Evgeni Malkin and company have been there before, some are concerned the Pens lacked urgency in the regular season, but they should be fine against an Ottawa team that's going with playoff rookie Brian Elliott in goal.

East Notes: If the seeds hold, as I expect, then it's Washington and Pittsburgh again this Spring -- too bad it has to come so early. The Devils have that playoff "thing" about them with their defensive approach and some talent up front, but it looks like Washington is the team to beat.

In the West:

(1) San Jose v (8) Colorado: The teams split the season series, and everyone is watching to see if the Sharks can finally put a playoff run together, but Colorado has already over-achieved. Factor in questions surrounding the health of Peter Mueller and Matt Duchene and it will be tough for the Avs to bounce the Sharks.

(2) Chicago v (7) Nashville: These two Central Division rivals haven't met since december, but both are impressive. While the Hawks have home ice and our own Jonathan Toews leading the way, the Preds are deep on defense and strong in goal with Pekka Rinne out to prove he can stand tall in the post-season...this one scares me Hawks fans. Nashville in an upset.

(3) Vancouver v (6) Los Angeles: Henrik Sedin is the scoring champ, Roberto Luongo is a gold-medal winning goalie (despite his struggles at times this season) and the Canucks are a tight-knit bunch -- they'll beat the Kings but it won't be easy. LA is healthy, talented, and excited to finally be back in the playoffs.

(4) Phoenix v (5) Detroit: Congrats 'Yotes you've shocked the hockey world with a terrific regular season, one going a long way to keeping the team in Arizona, and your reward for all of this...the healthy and razor-sharp Wings! I know Detroit is aging and they'll need to take home ice away from Phoenix but I think the fun ends here for the Coyotes.

West Notes: So If my guess-work plays out we're looking ahead to San Jose v Nashville and Vancouver against Detroit. Call it Sharks v Wings in the West Final with Detroit not over the hill just yet.

Stanley Cup Final: How about Washington winning its first cup over Detroit in six games? Why not it's mid-April and none of the fun has unfolded yet. My advice, keep watching CBC for the full story and enjoy!

If you're a little confused about the Bomber quarterback situation you're not alone. First the club is not interested in Buck Pierce then they're in talks with him. And, not long after it seemed Stefan LeFors was going to get a chance to start again he's on the verge of retirement.

Here's what I know. The Bombers need a starting quarterback and they're talking about a guy with a good record and a questionable medical history and a guy who's miffed after taking a big pay cut last year when he got hurt and the club needed some financial help.

Not exactly ideal, so what next? Maybe an incentive-laden deal with Pierce and a farewell to LeFors who was a good guy in the wrong place at the wrong time. Or maybe both disappear and someone else is signed to add quality competition for the starting spot and Steven Jyles is elevated to get that shot he's been waiting for.

Whatever happens it'll be as big a decision as the new management team will make heading into the new CFL season and they need to get it right...good to hear GM Joe Mack say he wants to sort things out within 10 days or so cause half the battle is having a plan.

Sorry to weigh in so late on the new stadium announcement, but here's how I see it ... the folks in power really value the Blue Bombers and they think you do too. Ta da!

I know earth-shattering, but that's what it amounts to to me. The Mayor and the Premier are okay with the view "why not put some potential tax-revenue at risk to protect a city and provincial jewel that's so much a part of life in this part of the country?"

While there are good points being made by the Asper-dissenters, and those who don't like the idea of sports teams getting breaks, in the end the power-brokers must be confident enough to back the project because they know more of us are okay with it than aren't. So let's get on with it and hope for a great stadium for all to enjoy...and a new mall at Polo Park.

As for Tiger's chat with the media today ahead of his return to competitive golf? Well that sounded alright to me too. I have to admit I'm falling for Tiger's comeback...he seems genuine to me, humbled, and open to change. It's early, and only time will tell, but what a story it would be if Woods could become a person to match his championship golf ability.

Looks like we're going to know alot more about the future of a new stadium for the Bombers/Bison et al tomorrow morning.

You can expect a morning announcement talking about the financial arrangements and early indications are the project will not be scaled down from the original concept.

According to our sources construction is scheduled to start within 6 months and the new park could be in use as early as next year...stay tuned.

Bison football coach Brian Dobie knows his sport and he knows this city and province -  afterall he's lived here most of his life. So today I talked with the Coach about the idea of a new football stadium and about his thoughts on a scaled-down version being built now that David Asper's plan appears to be stalling.

Not surprisingly Dobie's answer was a two-parter. The first part was - he'd love a new stadium of any kind for football in Manitoba, for the Bombers, and for sport in general. The second part was geeze if you're going to do something, why not do it right?

Dobie's case is a new, impressive facility would be a point of pride for the city and province for years to come. A shiny-new stadium with at least a few bells-and-whistles would also serve people of all ages and of a variety of needs -- from spectators to athletes. Coach Dobie also felt a quality spot would last for generations -- like 50+ years.

Tough to justify millions and millions in public dollars for things like civic/provincial pride but there is some truth in the idea that it does a place good to feel good about where you live, not to mention the more tangible benefits like serving a growing football community and generating revenues from hosting events.

I talked about a modest but new stadium being better than losing the Bombers and I still feel that way, but something that's flat-out cheap will only create other issues down the road...might as well find a way to do it right (or as right as the times permit).

So along comes little old Monday and bang!

A story out of Phoenix talks about the NHL having True North Sports and Entertainment lined up in the event two ownership groups fall through in Arizona, and the buzz continues about plans for a new football stadium.

I'm tight for time but here's my take, and it's a familiar one, the Chipman/Thomson folks are doing it right. They're working with the right people and they're not making false promises on the home front. If there's any chance they can find a fit for their business plan, there will be an NHL team here again some day.

As for the stadium, we all know we need a new one and sooner than later. That fact was confirmed today when the Premier said Canad Inns Stadium needs $52 million in renos(and that's just to keep it going). Now it's a matter of rounding up the dough needed to make something useful for generations to come and that leaves us wondering what we'll end up with.

It's tough to know exactly what kind of stadium you can build with $100 million versus $135 million or more but we're also working against time as the old building falters and we're working with an economy that's stable but not sizzling...sounds like grounds for a compromise to me.

Maybe there's a way to do it modestly but impressively...beats losing the Bombers!

Politics dragged out the NHL and the NHLPA's ability to put a "head shot" suspension option in the hands of League disciplinarian Colin Campbell, but now that delay is over.

Effective tonight the NHL can suspend players for hits where the "primary point of contact is the head". That's a step in the right direction, now we'll see how the players react to the threat of sitting out and losing money. Maybe we'll even have an incident that puts the new option to the test -- then we'll see just how serious the League is about cracking down.

It's expected the NHL/NHLPA will go to work on an on-ice penalty or penalties for head shots in the summer...a move allowing refs to issues minors or majors for head shots.

Wow, tough one for the Moose last night. 7-1 at home...not what Scott Arniel was looking for from a team that was showing signs of improved play. Now the Moose are on the road for six with alot to be decided. Some players have been saying it's about individuals looking at themselves and making sure they're ready to play...time is running out to learn those lessons this season.

Those close to the Moose are seeing signs of a team heading in the right direction at the right time of the year. Three straight decent outings, and back-to-back wins, leaving the boys with a chance to at a three game winstreak...something they haven't experienced since very early in 2010.

But why the turnaround? Well the Moose have added energy and skill in Jordan Schroeder and Kevin Clark the last two times out -- both are small but show alot of "want to" and there's more. The Head Coach is talking about a team that's playing "harder", and that's a must when you're gearing up for the post-season.

Tonight the Moose finish of a two game set with the Hamilton Bulldogs and can head out on the road for six with a sweep of the top team in the Division with another solid showing at MTS Centre.

The challenge is having the discipline to stay with the "plan" down the stretch a stretch that could see the Moose climb as high as second and host an opening round series or see them stumble and face a big test on the road when the regular season is done. They will decide.

As for the latest poll, it's pretty clear most dont' like the Calgary Flames chances of making the playoffs. Today it's the Flames two back of the Wings with Detroit holding a game in hand -  as much as I'd like to be wrong, something tells me our poll's got it right.

That's it for now. Check out the latest poll question and talk to you again soon.

The Hamilton Bulldogs are the top team in the North Division of the AHL this season and they're there with alot of help from a pair of Brandon-products.

Ryan White is a fiesty forward with some size and a few points to boot, and Brock Trotter is the team's leading scorer with nearly 20 points more than he notched last year.

While it will be interesting to see how the two develop over time, it's really cool that last month Trotter got to make his NHL debut on a line with White. It was a set-up that allowed Trotter to feel a little more comforable and a combo that gave the Brandon duo something to remember for the rest of their lives.

So far White's played 16 NHL games with the Habs, while Trotter has seen time in two but right now they're Hamilton team mates and roomates who are both looking forward to many more in the show.

Heck, Trotter's already made enough of an impact back home to leave a lasting impression -- it seems his dad is not quite as much of a Red Wings fan as he once was.

The Blue Bombers introduced their Coaching Staff to the media today. The only new signing was Chris Wiesehan out of UCLA. Wiesehan is the Bombers' Receivers Coach after coaching the Bruins' Tight Ends.

Paul LaPolice's staff is all new with the exception of D-line Coach Richard Harris and boasts 41 years CFL coaching experience and 12 years CFL playing experience. The new Head Coach says CFL expertise is a must and he likes this group's "team first" approach.

Stefan LeFors' name keeps coming up and Offensive Coordinator Jamie Barresi suggested LeFors had some really positive qualities, qualities that could be effective for the Big Blue with the right system in place.

On the Moose front, winger Michael Grabner was called up to Vancouver today -- it's a second chance for Grabner to show his speed and offensive flair at the Big League level after impressing in a short spell earlier in the season.

The Canucks signed First Round Pick Jordan Schroeder today, Schroeder is a forward out of the University of Minnesota and will be in Vancouver for now but could be sent to the Moose to gain experience and help the playoff drive.

That's it for now, talk with you again soon.

The headline just about says it all. Head shots must go!

I know hockey is a fast and physical game, but it doesn't have to be a violent and dangerous game. Matt Cooke's hit on Marc Savard is just the latest example of what must be eliminated from the game.

You can make all of the arguments you want about intention or messing with the intensity of the game but when you are talking about people who may be affected for the rest of their lives there is no good counter argument.

First, hits to the head have to be penalized. Start with penalties within the game for "minor" offenses and then extend punishment to long suspensions for severe hits and repeat offenders. NHL execs are meeting in Florida this week and they're talking about this stuff...the time has come to take action.

Just a quick thought or two on this year's NHL Trade Deadline...

Like most I took notice of how active things were on a record-setting deadline day for deals, and like most I saw that there were very few impact names changing addresses but how about Phoenix making all those moves? One of the surprise teams of the seasons continues to build amidst a still uncertain future -- I'm curious to see what they can do in the post season. They'd really be a story if they won a round.

Local boy Dustin Boyd was shipped from Calgary to Nashville, the word out of Calgary being that Boyd didn't earn regular duty in the top nine. But maybe a change of address, and position, will help the former WHL'er. Darryl Sutter said Boyd is a natural centre and maybe he'll get a chance to play there in Tennessee.

And at a time when many where watching to see who'd do what it's interesting to see the Red Wings stand pat...healthier than they've been in a while Ken Holland knows he's got a solid group and Nik Lidstrom has been quoted as saying they'll make the playoffs. Sometimes the best moves are the one you don't make.

Interesting to see Jonathan Toews pull ahead in the latest poll...place your vote today! 

Sunday Jonathan Toews added another honour to his growing collection...an Olympic Gold Medal. No Toews didn't do it himself, in fact he was very clearly part of an impressive team as Canada edged the US in OT to win the Men's Hockey tournament in Vancouver, but that Olympic Gold now goes into safe-keeping with a World Championship and a couple World Junior titles. And as if that wasn't enough the kid from St Vital was named Top Forward and selected to the Winter Games' Tournament All-Star team...not bad for a guy considered a depth player not so long ago.

Want to know his secret? I thought you might. It turns out the secret is common sense and quality guidance. His parents encouraged him (and brother David) to be good people first and then if they found a passion to pursue it with determination. Sounds easy enough, but it takes leadership from parents and everyday attention to detail...not to mention co-operation from the child.

No problem there say those who know Jonathan -- a good kid from day one who always seemed to know what was important.

It's pretty clear, Jonathan Toews has it all and the sky's the limit ... all he has to do is find a way to keep doing what he's doing.

The Blue Bomber makeover continues. First it was Joe Mack and Paul La Police coming in to lead the way and after a few signings it was all-about QB's today.

The Big Blue confirming the signing of Steven Jyles and announcing they've released both Michael Bishop and Casey Bramlet. The moves leave the club with four signal-callers -- Jyles, Stefan Le Fors, Ricky Santos, and Adam DeMichele.

Paul La Police insists he'll let the players decide who will start but one thing appears clear at this point ... the Bombers are okay with having a guy who's been around the League a little, who can look after the football, and who run the team well enough to compete.

Is this an ideal scenario? No, everyone wants to have a proven star at QB but if you'd don't have one you can get by with someone who is developing if they've got the tools and they are properly supported. Even better if you're not just getting by but they're growing on the job and becoming that proven star.

Is there something special in the Bombers QB stable? It looks like we're going to get a legitimate chance to find out.

See how I did that? I managed to put the word "musings" in both the title of the entry and the name of the blog...that's pretty clever isn't it. Alright it's not that clever, it's actually redundant but maybe it's a bit of a distraction from all of the talk about last night's Canada loss to the US in men's Oly hockey.

Wow! What a performance by USA goalie Ryan Miller -- he looked like he was channeling his inner Jim Craig! Miller's been great this year for Buffalo and he was as good as ever last night..Canada has to be disappointed and Canadian fans have reason to be concerned because of the way the draw sets them up to face the Russians now, but you gotta tip your cap to Ryan Miller and the Americans who did exactly what they needed to do.

There are lots of way to analyze the Canadian loss, but simply the Americans got better goaltending and that can be the difference in a one-game situation. The idea for the Canucks has to be to stay positive, keep growing as a team, and take care of Germany before facing the Russians in a do-or-die in what will be the third pressure game in four days for our guys.

I expect Roberto Luongo to play, but Mike Babcock isn't confirming that at this time. Martin Brodeur is one of the all-time greats but he's not looking confident in Vancouver and there's little time/room to straighten that out.

To football to close, thanks for jumping in with your views on the Bomber QB situation -- lots of early reaction and so far it's neck-and-neck between Steven Jyles and Stefan LeFors...keep it coming! Mitch

The Blue Bombers did some business Friday. The Big Blue announcing deals with three players and sorting out details on another one today.

O-lineman Ryan Donnelly and QB Adam DiMichele have re-signed with the Bombers while WR Adarius Bowman has agreed to a contract extension. Bowman was the Bombers top receiver last season with just under 1,000 yards.

Also, it seems they've worked out a one year plus-and-option agreement with free agent Steven Jyles. Jyles' agent told me this afternoon both the player and the club are satisfied and that Jyles will report to camp and work to earn his playing time -- in other words there are no guarantees (which is the way to go about it if you ask me, it takes the pressure off the club for making a dangerous promise and puts the onus on the player to produce).

Who would you start at QB if things were to begin today? Check out the poll.

One of the great things about this job is getting to meet people who are making a difference in the community. Three of those people are -- Carter Retchuck, his mom Marcia Long, and a mentor to Carter named David Seburn. The trio have started a program to gather used skateboards and helmets for those less fortunate at the YMCA North End Wellness Centre and the program is taking off.

Just a few weeks old, the collection bins are at four Skateboard shops in the city and they're getting more and more full by the day. Did I mention that Carter is nine years old? Pretty cool eh?

If you'd like to chip in why not stop by...

Sk8 (Forks)

Green Apple Skate Shop (Corydon)

West 49 (Polo Park)

Kings (Portage)

Talk to you again soon -- Mitch

If you're at all like me you're pretty pumped up about the Olympics, especially since they're here in Canada. I mean can you imagine what it's going to be like when one of ours ends up on top of the podium...especially if a Manitoban or two grabs the spotlight -- WOW!

But something else, something seemingly pretty small has happened to boost my Oly interest. The arrival of the Swiss...yes I know it's a bit out there but come on. Here we are on the brink of getting the Games rolling and we get a little taste up close and personal.

From the Swiss women's hockey team playing exhibitions here against Balmoral and U of M, to the men's team showing up with their Steinbach-raised coach for a pair of games against Belarus at the MTS Centre...we've got a pre-Olympic bonus!! Factor that I've had a chance to catch up with the Swiss women's curling team in Gimli (the men stopped in Morris), and I'm really ready for the Games to begin.

If this sounds a bit odd I'm blaming my daughter...she's been looking forward to the Olympics (the mascots anyway) for months and that has helped get me even more ready than usual.

Hopefully there will be lots of great memories when all is said and done, and if there aren't? I blame the Swiss...afterall I can't blame my daughter for everything.

"We" not "I"... "no excuses culture"...just a few of the key points stressed by new Bomber Head Coach Paul LaPolice at his introductory Media Conference today at Canad Inns Stadium.

If first impressions were scored as wins or losses...I'd say LaPolice comes out a winner on Day One. He seems sincere and determined to make things right here in Winnipeg, and confident he can quickly settle into the role of an effective Head Coach.

He even showed some of his point of view when he said if his Rider offense had been more effective against Montreal in the Grey Cup that that too many men penalty may never even have taken place.

Now we wait to see what kind of a coaching staff is put in place, how free-agency goes and most importantly...how things go when the regular season begins July 2nd against Hamilton!

Have a good weekend! Mitch

Multiple sources are indicating Paul LaPolice will be named the new head coach of the Bombers at a noon media conference Friday.

It's LaPolice's first Head Coaching job and comes amid speculation he would have taken over for Ken Miller had he opted to stay in Regina where he had worked for the past three seasons.

This is a critical hire for Joe Mack and the Bombers because the club needs to not only bounce back from last year's 7-and-11 fiasco but also to set the stage for new ownership and a new stadium.

LaPolice is seen as a detail-oriented and focused young coach, one destined to be a CFL head coach but how will he adjust when put on the hotseat. The new guy does know this market having been O.C here in '02 and '03, and been in the CFL for ten years, and it could just be that the Big Blue have found the one they've been looking for since dumping Doug Berry.

By the way 80% of you thought Greg Marshall would be a good choice to take over for Kelly, does that mean LaPolice is not a popular choice with the fans? We'll find out.

Rookie Winger Dan Sexton returned to the Moose today after putting up 18 pts in 28 NHL games. The 22 year old getting demoted because the Ducks have Teemu Selanne back from injury and because they added Jason Blake from TO, not to mention some salary cap issues.

It's the business side of the game, the part you don't think about when you're dreaming of making it big -- but once your around (even for a few months) you get to know the way things work and you roll with the punches or fade away in frustration. Fortunately for the Moose, Ducks, and Dan Sexton...the kid out of Bowling Green seems more than capable of accepting the situation and continuing to develop.

In fact, Sexton said today he's happy to be where he is considering he was in college a year ago with no concrete pro plans...impressive and especially when you factor in that he's played for four teams this season in three leagues. Making the best of it, a winning way to look at things!

Two guys with experience as Blue Bombers are in the Canadian Football Hall of Fame Class of 2010.

Defensive End Elfrid Payton and punter Bob Cameron will join Q-B Tracy Ham and WR Don Narcisse as the players in the latest class, Joe Pistilli enters as a Builder.

Payton got alot of attention for making Q-B's lives miserable, but Cameron won his backers over with years and years and years of consistently quality performance...23 years in fact.

You know all about Bob Cameron's days with the Big Blue, but did you know he was cut 8 times before catching on as a pro...8 times! Cameron told the media today he had alot of support from his parents who encouraged him to follow his heart, but to survive 8 releases is a real story of sticking with it.

To me the key thing that Cameron talked about when discussing his journey was that he always thought he could do the job if given a chance -- that's the key for anyone, in any line of work and good note to end on.

Talk soon -- Mitch 

Hey Bomber fans it's out! The 2010 CFL schedule was released in full today and the fun starts Canada Day and features a Montreal/Saskatchewan Grey Cup re-match...but that's not what most of you care about.

The Big Blue officially kick-off their "rebound" season (after the Mike Kelly break-up) with a re-match with the Hamilton Ticats on Friday, July 2nd at Canad Inns Stadium. Yes that Hamilton, the very team that made sure those 2009 Bombers weren't going to make the post-season. But we knew that back on Friday.

As for the rest of the season, how about five Friday home games, two Saturday dates, one Sunday match-up, and a Monday start on Thanksgiving.

Unlike last season when the Bombers finished with 6 of 9 at home, this schedule is more balanced with four home games before the bye in week nine and five home games over the last ten games of the campaign. It is interesting that the Bombers open with three of four at home and the first two of those are against key opponents -- Hamilton and Toronto (in Weeks 1 & 2)...a set up that may help a new regime get off to a positive start.

The Bombers' regular season ends November 5th at home to Calgary and the playoffs start November 14th --  and end with the Grey Cup in Edmonton on the 28th.

I've spent alot of time in hockey rinks over the years. From my own playing experiences through Junior and University hockey to time spent covering the game at the Junior A, Major Junior, Minor Pro, and NHL levels -- I've seen a game or two and I've had it with head shots!

I know it's a physical game, and it should stay that way, but physical has to be within the rules of the game and just as importantly the "spirit" of hte game. Battle for the puck, shield the "other guy" from the puck, even push and shove when you've had enough but don't target the head.

The game has changed. The players are fitter, they're faster, and they are bigger meaning there's less room to move and less time to make decisions -- factor in the new protective equipment and as you can see there is alot of damage being done.

Keep up the big bans to offenders in Jr and Pro, and take the message to the kids so they understand -- head shots change lives, just ask anyone with concussion issues.

Thoughts on head shots? Drop me an e-mail at the link -- Mitch

Joe Mack is in as VP of Player Personnel and GM and that means two things...the Bombers finally have someone in place with the power to re-shape things for the coming season-and-beyond AND that we should be getting a pretty steady stream of news from Maroons Road.

The cleansing of the Mike Kelly-era continued Sunday with John Murphy being cut loose by Jim Bell the Bombers' acting President/CEO, a move paving the way for Mack to bring in his own Personnel Man ... or the Personnel Man suggested by the board. That said, if that person in Ross Hodgkinson then the move makes sense no matter who's behind it. Hodgkinson has been close to the club for years and is seen as someone with a wealth of knowledge on the inner workings of CFL football.

Meanwhile, the momentum continues towards Greg Marshall's hiring as the new Head Coach. Reports of much of the existing Bomber Staff being told they're free to look for other jobs paves the way for a new leading-man and Marshall's name keeps coming up. In Marshall the Bombers have a guy long-rumored to be Head Coach-in-waiting and someone familiar with the club and the community. Also, and importantly, Marshall is a guy a portion of the Board supported before Mike Kelly came to town.

If you're sensing there's a theme here, there is. No one will fully confess to this but you can be sure the Bombers are playing things very safe right now, a once-bitten twice shy kinda thing. Lyle Bauer was viewed by some as a little too independent in his final years and the Mike Kelly hiring was a complete disaster so there's a feeling that keeping a tighter grip on things is the way to go.

Need more evidence? How about word that Joe Mack is to report directly to the Chairman of the Board.

Hey nobody likes it when things go sour, so you'd have to expect a change in philosophy. The bottom-line? Let the changes begin.

Be sure to vote in the latest poll, and talk to you soon! Mitch

Winnipegers Colin Wilson and Chet Pickard are home for the weekend. The two Nashville Predator First Round Picks are with the Milwaukee Admirals these days. The highly-touted prospects are learning the pro game and lucky to have each other to lean on as they work to climb the ladder.

In a cool twist the two are long-time pals having played together with the Winnipeg Monarchs up to age 15 or so, that's when they went their own ways before teaming up again this year. Wilson choosing the US College route and Pickard going through the WHL before landing in Milwaukee.

Wilson's already played in the Big Leagues but a nagging injury has slowed his transition, while Pickard is patiently waiting for his turn in the Show knowing he's got some learning to do -- learning that's a little easier to do with the help of a good friend.

Thoughts? Reaction? Drop me a note at the link below -- Mitch

So Alex Burrows got fined 25-hundred bucks for speaking out about the work of referee Stephane Auger. Since the former Moose player let fly after being dinged for a couple of questionable calls and a misconduct the debate has been raging.

Part of the debate has to do with the idea of a referee holding a grudge against a player, part of it has to do with Burrows speaking out, and still more has had to do with how the NHL has handled the situation.

Frankly, I'm impressed with the way Burrows expressed himself. Assuming he's being truthful/accurate in what he's saying he made his point at a very emotional time in a pretty clear and very foul-language free way - not easy to do after a loss.

Rightly or wrongly Alex spoke up. It's safe to say it's not the first time something like this ever happened in the NHL, but now it's out in the open - so what to do?

How about some straight-shooting from the NHL on what they did to review the situation, how they decided only Burrows was to blame and then we can all move on. To me this can be compared to how to handle any other nasty situation, like the Tiger Woods situation or the David Letterman situation, just come out with the truth accept responsibility and get on with life? Seems better than feeding conspiracy theorists doesn't it?

Reaction? Drop me a note at the link below...Mitch

Well the Bombers have said so long to both Jonathan Hefney and Dudley Guice Jr this week, at least for now, after the pair signed to take shots in the NFL with Detroit and Indianapolis respectively...but what else is going on in Bomberville?

Well, a source close to the Bombers told me today that the club is getting close to working out a deal with MVP Jovon Johnson...word is there could be an announcement as soon as next week. A big step for a team that missed the playoffs and already lost a valuable member of the secondary with Hefney's departure. Also a big step for a club looking to show it's fans it is stable and on the right track.

Meanwhile, late this afternoon the Bomber Board met to advance their search for the Big Three - CEO, VP of Football Operations, and Head Coach. When I sat down to write this Bomber Chair Ken Hildahl and his peers were at work...I'm told not to expect anything earth-shattering, but with the news the Riders are expected to part ways with Eric Tillman might there be some urgency to make a push for the most likely candidate to replace Tillman - Brendan Taman? I don't know, but it's probably fair to say it's not bad being Mr Taman right now. Until next time - vote in our poll and take care!

Mitch

The window is open, but how many will walk through it? The option window for CFL players to sign with NFL teams opened today and runs up to the start of the CFL's free agent period February 15th, and the opening of that window was marked by Bomber halfback Jonathan Hefney's signing with the Detroit Lions.

Hefney had a strong debut season in the CFL starting in all 18 games and contributing 4 picks as part of a much-improved secondary, but will he be the last of the young and talented to move on? The Globe and Mail says there is interest in receivers Adarius Bowman and Titus Ryan and Jovon Johnson certainly impressed in his club MVP breakthrough season.

With all of the change afoot at the highest levels with the Bombers it will only make things tougher to sprinkle in the loss of several fine young talents as the club looks to find its way back into the playoffs. Additional losses will also only serve to add pressure to the person hired as the new VP of Football Operations. So maybe the real question is the window is open -- but who will walk in to take the reigns? There's a real opportunity for someone willing to tackle a big challenge at the helm here in Winnipeg.

Happy Holidays whatever you may celebrate at this time of year!

It's been quite a holiday season for football fans in our part of the world. The Bombers are now searching for a CEO, a VP of Football Ops, and a Head Coach (and of course a starting QB too). My guess is most fans of the Big Blue have three strong "hires" on their Xmas-list to take the team into its 80th year and create some stability. Beyond that let's hope a stadium deal comes through in a way that's good for the club and the community - no deal would put the Bombers in real trouble.

Hockey Fans, well how about an Olympic Team spot for Jonathan Toews, some offense for the Moose, and I guess we can already be thankful for the development of the Mooseplex slated to open in the summer of 2010.

When it comes to baseball, the Goldeyes seem well on their way to giving their fans alot to look forward too. Rick Forney going putting some good signings together under the tree - with names like Wes Long and Juan Diaz signed maybe this season will be a championship season at Canwest Park.

Beyond our pro teams, best wishes to all of you involved in the great sports scene here in Manitoba and may all of your wishes come true.

Mitch

The Blue Bombers confirmed Jim Bell's move to Interim President today, extended the season ticket renewal deadline, AND named Ross Hodgkinson Interim VP of Football Operations.

Hodgkinson is a long-time club employee and has experience as Director of Football Operations dating back to 2006. It's a move geared to allowing the team to continue to operate its Football Ops Department, and Hodgkinson will work in tandem with John Murphy as the club looks after things like scouting Bowl Games and preparing for Free Agent "season".

Hodgkinson could be a candidate for the job full-time, but that wasn't what today's announcement was about - Ken Hildahl saying that Hodgkinson would be the one to decide if he was a candidate or not.

Interestingly, Board Chair Hildahl said David Asper/Creswin Properties would be involved in the hiring process for each of the three expected vacancies....CEO, VP of Football Ops, and Head Coach. The sense is...it's going to be his team - he should know who he'll be dealing with.

Bye for now - Mitch

Lyle Bauer resigns, okay a bit of a surprise. Mike Kelly getting fired, no surprise but the wild day that led to the announcement of the firing? Wow! Wow! Wow!

I mean just when I thought the 2009 season was too full of weird stuff to turn in to a movie people could fall for - this! Allegations of domestic violence, a snap Board meeting, and bye-bye - you can't make this stuff up!

Now the truth comes out, Bomber players speaking out about Kelly's reign of error and generally positive reaction to the ousting of the troubled coach even though it puts the club in a very uncertain place.

No Prez/CEO, no Head Coach, and a Director of Player Personnel that seemed pretty loyal to the coach that doesn't work here anymore...all of that heading into free agent season after missing the playoffs! Did I mention today was deadline day for season ticket renewals and that the team may or may not have new ownership in 2010?

The Bomber Board says it will work with David Asper (the expected new owner) in some way to look after these key hirings and help create an environment for a smooth transition to new ownership, but what if that transition doesn't occur? I guess that's too far into the future to worry about now.

Now the club needs a safe, positive choice for Head Coach and for Prez/CEO - sheppards to guide the team to stability and respectability again. As for Grey Cups? One thing at a time.

Thoughts? Reaction? Let me know at the link below...Mitch