tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61905362011-04-21T18:45:55.379-04:00Senators, Renegades, 67s, Lynx, and more... thoughts about the Ottawa sports scene...among other thingsMikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comBlogger2241100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1176690794938565942007-04-15T22:05:00.000-04:002007-04-15T22:33:14.953-04:00

Quick post game 3 thoughts for both game 2 and 3:Here we go again. Anthem booing seems to pop up on an annual basis. Why can't some morons make the distinction between booing players and booing anthems? Do these moreons not realize that many of their players, including most of their best ones, are Canadian? Anyway, I'm not going to dignify it by spending any more time thinking or writing about it

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1176222213628844852007-04-10T12:15:00.000-04:002007-04-10T13:13:59.553-04:00

I've been hearing the "C" word a lot over the last couple of days."When will the Sens "C" this year?""Time for the Sens annual "C"""The Sens may not "C" in the first round, but they will eventually""The Sens are "C" dogs"Etc, etc...As Bryan Murray eloquently stated yesterday, bullshit.Further proof of how many writers and broadcasters are lazy and just resort to the first shop-worn cliche that

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1176138432589064092007-04-09T12:59:00.000-04:002007-04-09T13:07:12.603-04:00

Rising from oblivion for the playoff run and Lynx opening day.Thank God for both the TEAM 1200 and French Immersion. From Rob Brodie's blog at the Ottawa Sun:Bob Cole and Greg Millen are the commentators.RDS is also showing every game in the series Sigh. Almost makes me wish the Leafs were in the playoffs.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1161809511610981572006-10-25T16:49:00.000-04:002006-10-25T16:51:51.636-04:00

The buzz on the radio and in the papers today is about Eaves' fight with Tucker (I actually missed it while I was flipped to the ballgame at that point), but to me the real disgrace last night was Chad Kilger's brutal spear on Christoph Schubert's erm, German sausage so to speak. I'll be angry if Kilger doesn't land a game or two suspension (though not surprised given the blue and white goggles

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1158947639120374612006-09-22T13:35:00.000-04:002006-09-22T13:54:00.016-04:00

A few weeks ago, the Sens fan and blogging communities suddenly lost one of its own, Thomas DeChastelain, who wrote Sens Watch (site has been taken down). On the web blogs can take on a life of their own; it's easy to forget sometimes that each blog is connected to a person. A shocking and sad event like this is a jolting reminder. Here's a short biography, taken from his website before it was

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1154624370522901182006-08-03T12:51:00.000-04:002006-08-03T12:59:30.580-04:00

The Toronto Star has an interesting piece on how batting practice works. I knew the gist of how it worked (better/more senior players first) but I learned a few things about how hitters approach getting prepared.Also, the Sens made a nice depth signing in inking Dean McAmmond to a 1-year deal yesterday. Haven't heard anything about the terms yet, but assuming a reasonable price, he's a good

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1154366646549697812006-07-31T13:21:00.000-04:002006-07-31T13:24:06.570-04:00

Given today's Hasek signing news, looks like this guy would be a good fit in the Wings front office.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1154362438485324362006-07-31T12:02:00.000-04:002006-07-31T13:11:21.823-04:00

Of course, as soon as I break my blogging silence to rave about the Lynx's recent offensive tear, they're promptly shut out in back-to-back games.As pennance, I offer these videos. First, the credits from the best Simpsons episode ever.Also, a Brian McGrattan montage, set not to the customary turned-to-11-heavy-metal-fight-montage music, but to a bluegrass tune. Yee-haw!

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1154177168300136452006-07-29T08:45:00.000-04:002006-07-29T08:54:21.983-04:00

Just when I was excited to write a blog post about one of my favourite Sens upping for four more years, I sit down and see it's already been written. While I generally haven't been as down on Muckler's performance as Chris, I agree that this is a great signing. Schaefer deserves to be in the York/Calder arbitration range more than Calder and York (especially) themselves. Instead, he's signed for

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1145984742612653662006-04-25T12:59:00.000-04:002006-04-25T13:05:42.626-04:00

....and the only perscription is more cowbell.Too bad the SBP security staff don't feel the love for the cowbell.The team has since apologized, but during game 2, the Nellis family was asked to stop using the cowbells that they had brought to make noise. That's a good start, but to fully make amends, for game 5 and forward, the team should replace the thundersticks with red cowbells.Rev up the

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1145681267784055242006-04-22T00:12:00.000-04:002006-04-22T00:47:47.860-04:00

For two periods it was, as Yogi Berra would say, deja vu all over again. The Sens despite getting some chances, couldn't put one in. Shots were being blocked or going wide. Passes were bouncing over sticks. The crowd's energy, which seemed more tentative than previous years even from the outset, was dying as we all got more and more nervous that we were seeing the same old playoff slasher flick

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1145651666134062862006-04-21T16:31:00.000-04:002006-04-21T16:34:26.146-04:00

Back in the saddle, both for me and the Sens. The Sens take another run at the Cup, and I'll take another run at blogging.It's playoff time and I'm pumped. I've barely been able to sit still today. 7:00 can't come soon enough. I'm so pumped that I'm even taking time to jot down a few thoughts for the blog that I've been ignoring for the past (busy) 3 months. Despite what you might have guessed

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1138158582289503212006-01-24T21:56:00.000-05:002006-01-24T22:30:47.476-05:00

Fresh on the heels of alienating their best receiver with a lowball offer (although there was a good chance he was retiring anyway), the Renegades have alienated their star running back and arguably best player (my favourite, at least) Josh Ranek. After my initial optimism with the re-signings of Kerry Joseph and Kyries Hebert, the headaches are starting again. With no running game (and I'm not

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1138061579836338972006-01-23T18:25:00.000-05:002006-01-23T19:13:43.553-05:00

As I give the remote a rest before a hectic night of flipping between Leafs/Sens and election coverage (including a special edition of the most excellent Mercer Report) , I'm giving the blogroll a much overdue update.First, the Sens contingent of blogs continues to grow, with a trio of additions to the sidebar. Sens Nation includes a blog, gameday live chat, forums, as well as a plethora of

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1137178270721478322006-01-13T12:27:00.000-05:002006-01-13T13:51:10.823-05:00

Maybe I should just forget about buying playoff tickets.The Senators, 29-10-3 on the season, are 2-3 in games that we've (my wife and I, not the royal we) attended this season. The two victories were The Spezza Goal game, and another win over the Habs (4-0, IIRC). we've witnessed losses to Carolina, Dallas, and last night's loss to the Sharks.Maybe the losses are repayment for having the

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1137088998022394942006-01-12T12:50:00.000-05:002006-01-12T13:03:18.070-05:00

Apparently this has already started, but the TEAM1200 radio broadcast is now being simulcast on BOB-FM as well. Good news for those occasions when I'm on the road, and can catch a few more minutes of the game before driving beyond of range. It's also a clearer feed for games when I mute the TV and use the audio feed rather than listening to Bob and Harry, or Glenn Healey.It would be great if the

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1136949492928222312006-01-10T21:22:00.000-05:002006-01-10T22:18:12.993-05:00

Yep, I'm playing the Spirit of the West post title card again. Consider it my semi-annual mulligan. Haven't been "drunk since I left" though. Been busy with, among other things, Christmas fesivities, work, and watching the entire 4th (soon to be followed by 5th) season of Seinfeld on DVD.... not that there's anything wrong with that.(As an aside, season 4 of Seinfeld has got to be one of the best

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1134094015568742492005-12-08T20:05:00.000-05:002005-12-08T21:06:55.633-05:00

The Renegades have taken the plunge and have re-signed linebacker/free safety/special teams whirling dervish, and Renegade Nation Player of the Year winner Kyries Hebert to a 5-year contract (only the first two are guranteed).Listening to the TEAM 1200 on the way to work, I was a bit surprised to hear the morning guys' disappointment with the deal. They were disappointed not only with the size

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1133892842782583392005-12-06T13:09:00.000-05:002005-12-06T13:14:02.783-05:00

I've added the excellent new blog, Hockeydirt to the blogroll. In addition to being from Ottawa (although much more than a mere Sens blog), Hockeydirt has hosted the voluminous Carnival of the NHL #14 and has an absolutely amazing post about what keeps us playing hockey.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1133892464042687252005-12-06T12:07:00.000-05:002005-12-06T13:07:44.103-05:00

I've been getting a few searches on Scanlan, which I assume means people are looking for Wayne Scanlan's outstanding piece from the Citizen yesterday in which he details the awarding of the Senators franchise. You can find it here, although I'm not sure the link will work beyond the 7-day archive. It seems to be in font of the subscriber wall.---Had a chance to get out and experience the "

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1131855957218396702005-11-12T23:26:00.000-05:002005-11-12T23:25:57.253-05:00

I've been meaning to write after each Sens game (other than last Saturday when I was away and missed the game), I really have. It's just that, after a while, what do you write? "Sens kick ass again, woohoo, bring on the next sucka!". It's boring to write. It would be boring to read. On the other side of things, while then Sens haven't been flawless, I'm also not one to nitpick after a 8-0/10-4/6-

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1130719714395943922005-10-30T19:44:00.000-05:002005-10-30T19:48:34.406-05:00

For those of you searching for video of the Spezza OT winner against the Canadiens, you can find it here.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1130644523478508222005-10-29T23:38:00.000-04:002005-10-29T23:55:23.486-04:00

As the perfect tonic to the Gades futility, we have the Sens performance tonight.8-0.Beautiful.Ahhhhh....

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1130643422969889772005-10-29T23:04:00.000-04:002005-10-29T23:37:03.066-04:00

With today's 43-23 loss to the Alouettes, the Gades small mathematical playoff hopes have been officially quashed, and the off season circus is already beginnning, even with a game to go. Joe Paopao, and his 2-play playbook are rightfully on the way out of town, and hopefully with him we have seen the last of his many passes to the far sideline. However, as Paopao heads out the door, that door is

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1130504531408550122005-10-28T08:24:00.000-04:002005-10-28T09:02:11.473-04:00

So that's why he kept trying it.Two years of turning the puck over trying the same move were redeemed last night when it actually worked and Jason Spezza made another beautiful move around Jose Theodore before roofing a backhand for the OT winner. That was the nicest goal I've seen in person, for sure, and one of the nicest I can remember, period. It was a fitting cap to an exciting game.It was

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1129999198365625802005-10-22T11:26:00.000-04:002005-10-22T12:41:07.736-04:00

That was possibly the most frustrating game I've watched in my time as a Gades fan, which is really saying something considering some of the real stinkers the team has put up over the last couple of years. Why must they shit their pants every time they need a win? A team with a playoff spot on the lie against a team already auditioning for next year starting a QB signed 3 weeks ago and starting

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1128649301333956052005-10-06T21:33:00.000-04:002005-10-06T21:50:02.666-04:00

From Wikipedia, some history on that song that salutes The Best Game You Can Name.The song first appeared on Connors' 1973 album, Stompin' Tom and the Hockey Song. However, the song did not reach its tremendous popularity until 1992. It was at this time, that the song was played at Ottawa Senators games. Pat Burns, then coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs wanted to have it played in Toronto. Fans

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1128461391637768332005-10-04T17:21:00.000-04:002005-10-04T17:29:51.643-04:00

TSN has joined the growing list of podcasts, starting with a few from Off The Record. Two of the recent guests include Lonie Glieberman (last week) and Zdeno Chara (today). You can download their appearences through tsn.ca's podcasting site, and presumably through iTunes (or other podcasting software) eventually although their feed hasn't been added to iTunes quite yet.While you're at tsn.ca,

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1128284157743784672005-10-02T14:28:00.000-04:002005-10-02T16:18:13.883-04:00

Finally, for me, it was game day at the Corel Centre. Sens vs. Habs. Only exhibition, but game day none the less.A few quick hits: The Sens are obviously looking ahead to the season. They started out ok, but the later it got in the game, the more obvious it was that their heads were just not in last night's game. No jump, half-assed forechecking, no hitting, lots of brain farts and turnovers.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1127925853632958432005-09-28T21:35:00.000-04:002005-09-28T21:44:47.783-04:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year... Bah humbug, forget Christmas, the fall is the most wonderful time of the year. Baseball pennant races and playoffs, football in full swing, hockey getting started. Hey, there was even a great golf tournament last weekend.While the spring with the Stanley Cup, Memorial Cup, and spring training baseball definitely has its moments, there's still nothing

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1127703077476246602005-09-25T22:54:00.000-04:002005-09-25T22:51:17.506-04:00

Not much time, but just had to sqeeze in a quick post, post-Sens game. It's the first televised one of the year, and my first glimpse at nearly the complete lineup of the new look Sens. I'm not going to read too much into a pre-season game, but they looked great. Brandon Bochenski continued to cement his spot on the team, and on Spezzas wing, with a hattrick. Volchenkov also left his mark, laying

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1126835888825955702005-09-15T21:26:00.000-04:002005-09-15T21:58:08.830-04:00

Some random sports links from the last couple of weeks:- like something out of the Onion - Lenny Dykstra, financial consultant- courtesy of Jes Gobez: Gary Coleman, hockey groupie- For the love of God won't you think of the children - An Open Letter to T.O. (thanks to Eric at OffWing Opinion for the pointer)- Heather at so.very.obsessed is hosting the Carnival of the NHL #8- Hockeybird has a

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1126833983988046652005-09-15T20:50:00.000-04:002005-09-15T21:26:24.023-04:00

Thankfully, it looks like the Gades have been saved from themselves for now. Trade talks have broken down since publicly begging for a player like a kid in the cereal aisle will tend to drive up the price a bit. Palmer could be ok at the right price, given the right protection, and eased in as just another QB. He should not be the square marketing prop peg, in the round football operations

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1126293691897664872005-09-09T15:08:00.000-04:002005-09-09T15:21:31.903-04:00

Ugh.Somehow, I always seem to inadvertently schedule my vacation for when the B.C. Lions are in town. Invariably, I never regret missing the game. Last night was no exception.Although I couldn't be at the game, I managed to force myself to watch most of it on TSN. Thank you sir, may I have another!I'm a postitive guy, but there's not much I can point to last night. The offence was bad. The

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1125277191786028012005-08-28T20:55:00.000-04:002005-08-28T20:59:51.793-04:00

Chris at Hockey Country has a great (and lengthy) history of the big trades in Sens history. Funny to see a few names from the PEI Sens days too.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1124845595006517252005-08-23T21:04:00.000-04:002005-08-23T21:06:35.013-04:00

I stepped outside coming out of work this afternoon and I heard a train, and train whistle, in the distance. Sounding like a goal horn, I subconsciously added the Hossa, Hossa, Hossa post-goal song afterward.I'm going to miss Hossa. He's always been a favourite. I think amidst his negotiations, and from having not seen him lately, many Sens fans have been underestimating Hossa recently. Not that

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1124827385788722232005-08-23T16:02:00.000-04:002005-08-23T16:03:05.793-04:00

Holy Crap!!!!This trade all hinges on who the defenceman is:Devries = Good trade (although I'll miss Hossa)Phillips or Volchenkov = Muckler needs to be firedMore later, I'm sure.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1124815409671551332005-08-23T12:41:00.000-04:002005-08-23T16:44:36.113-04:00

First, the good news: Marian Hossa is locked up for the next 3 years.Now, the bad news, courtesy of the zero-sum game environment of the new NHL: It cost 18 mil over three years to get him signed. Someone's going to have to go. With both Redden and Chara up for UFA next year, not everyone's going to fit under the cap (assuming league revenues are down this year and the cap doesn't go up). One

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1124195573120739292005-08-16T08:30:00.000-04:002005-08-16T08:34:03.976-04:00

Yay PEI. If they put a case of Keiths at the finish line, wins like this would happen much more often.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1123970535116016812005-08-13T18:06:00.000-04:002005-08-16T12:30:39.406-04:00

Time to clean up the link stash: here's one for you Michel. There's a new Habs Blog in town. plunk down a C note: Vegas has the Sens at 10-1 four more down, only one more to go-ssa a former 67 is a (self) published author The Ice Block raises a great question in wondering why the NHL isn't using RSS Chris at Hockey Country has a good wrap-up (prior to the final amounts from

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1123967927523743772005-08-13T17:19:00.000-04:002005-08-13T17:18:47.583-04:00

Whoda thunk it? With the Alouettes' win over the Argos last night, the Renegades retain sole possession of first place in the Eastern division 8 games into the season. It was an exciting and occasionally nerve-wracking game on Thurday night. A few notes:- I've yet to see the interception in the end zone on the Gades second drive. It was into (IIRC) Yo Murphy's hands and as we started to celebrate

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1123373290259020622005-08-06T20:14:00.000-04:002005-08-06T20:11:17.283-04:00

In catching up with all my hockey blog reading (all 400 posts or so over about 30 feeds - still working on it) I came across a new hockey/Sens blog.Welcome to Chris at Hockey Country (now on my sidebar too).

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1123369703670013622005-08-06T19:04:00.000-04:002005-08-06T19:16:42.590-04:00

"Just when I thought that I was out they pull me back in."- Michael Corleone, The Godfather IIII can't help myself. Despite the NHL's best efforts to bore hockey fans to states ranging from indifference to hostility with the lockout, I can't help myself. After a year of falling into a deep sleep, the NHL draft and free agent scramble have hit like a shot of adrenaline to Mia Wallace's breastplate

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1122939154464495892005-08-01T19:31:00.000-04:002005-08-01T19:32:34.513-04:00

Hopped in the car on the way home from softball and post-game, just in time to hear the dying seconds of the first half of the Gades/Riders game Friday night. The Gades were down 9-2 and lucky to be down only that according to The Voice's grim tone. Seconds later, Kory Banks picked off yet another pass in the end zone, and the Gades went to the half down only that single TD.Dozed in and out of

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1121915127299718682005-07-20T23:07:00.000-04:002005-07-20T23:05:27.300-04:00

And on the heels of Kerry Joseph, Matt Kellett and AC Collier's earlier victories, the Renegades claim yet another weekly award. This time it's the Little Ball of Hate, Josh Ranek and his 164 yards on the ground. The two long runs he broke in the first half helped break the game wide open.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1121914578082096992005-07-20T23:02:00.000-04:002005-07-20T22:56:18.086-04:00

It's surprising that I never did get aound to posting shortly after (maybe I could just claim that I've been on a celebration bender) the Renegades decisive win over the Stamps last Saturday. Surprising because it was perhaps the best end-to-end game I've ever seen the Renegades string together. They may have played a better one once upon a time, but I sure can't remember it. The Gades were in

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1121396871094778462005-07-14T22:55:00.000-04:002005-07-14T23:07:51.100-04:00

... now that the NHL is back.I'm a huge baseball fan so I don't really pay attention to hockey happenings over the summer anyway, but I'm having an especially tough time getting excited over even an event of this size. I've had to tune out the TEAM1200 on my commute since I'm sick and tired of non-stop hockey talk (which became more and more constant as the deal approached) when it's 40 degrees

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1120871306173834312005-07-08T21:07:00.000-04:002005-07-08T23:37:58.793-04:00

Time to clean out some stuff (mostly hockey related to coincide with the imminent return of the NHL) I've been saving in Bloglines and elsewhere. Hockeybird has some suggestions about the NHL's upcoming makeover. I especially like the odd-numbered suggestions, along with #10. Andrew at Ottawa Senators Fanblog has had some sober second thoughts. Along with his usual top-notch takes on the

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1120669138218656512005-07-06T12:50:00.000-04:002005-07-06T12:58:58.223-04:00

The 'Gades comeback earned them a pair of weekly honours.Meanwhile, not content to take the publicity hit/boost (depending on your vantage point), the infamous Mardi Gras promotion is being milked for all it's worth....errrrr..... continued.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1120515391320288472005-07-04T21:47:00.000-04:002005-07-04T21:53:46.020-04:00

What a surreal evening.It started with the storms rolling through during the pre-game warmups (the fans' warmup, that is, not the players). Things played mostly to expectations in the first half with the Als offense moving downfield more or less at will and the Renegades O picking up where they left off against the Eskimos last week. Only a last second Renegades TD kept the game within reach (and

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1119928069615795402005-06-27T23:12:00.000-04:002005-06-27T23:08:56.406-04:00

So, how has your June been?That I haven't written in a month partly reflects a slow period in the sports schedule, partly a busy transition period in my own life, but mostly just a lack of inspiration on my part. Although things were hardly hectic Ottawa sports-wise, the Lynx and the Renegades provide more than enough material, unfortunately I've been too preoccupied with the new job to delve

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1117401164210219472005-05-29T17:11:00.000-04:002005-05-29T17:12:44.216-04:00

And so it ends.The 67s came crashing back to earth in their final three games, ending their magical run through the OHL and into the Memorial Cup by going down 7-4 to the Rimouski Oceanic in the semi-final. It was easy to get frustrated with the team's play (not to mention London management's shenanigans....but I won't even start on that BS) over the last three games but I had to keep reminding

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1116896695831294532005-05-23T21:01:00.000-04:002005-05-23T21:04:55.836-04:00

In memory of the other, non-67, hockey team that once played here, and that may one day come back to choke again (or in a perfect world instead possibly show a fraction of the resilience the 67s have shown the last month or so), take a listen to this collection of NHL goal horns.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1116815168773518512005-05-22T22:26:00.000-04:002005-05-22T22:26:08.803-04:00

Holy shit. What a game.The 67s and Kelowna Rockets fought it out in the longest game in Memorial Cup history, and by the time the dust finally settled after Brad Staubitz hammered one home deep into a second OT, Danny Battochio had stopped 62 shots, including a few he had no business stopping and the 67s had escaped with a 3-2 win over the Rockets .Jes Golbez is one of my favourite hockey

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1116301632403850492005-05-16T23:56:00.000-04:002005-05-16T23:53:56.036-04:00

Another week, another posting whitewash. Between the new job, visitors and the Bo Jacksonesque gruelling schedules of both the Barrhaven and Hi-Tech softball leagues, shite happens, I suppose. I didn't even get to see the 67s turn back into a pumpkin in games 4-5, although I caught most of it on the radio. I'm still optimistic that they can pick it up again in the Memorial Cup. The cliche works:

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1115471164219795742005-05-07T08:23:00.000-04:002005-05-07T09:06:04.320-04:00

Once again it's been a while. Started a new job and posting has fallen to the wayside for a bit. With the start of the 67s-Knights series, it's time to get back at 'er. A few notes from the last week or so:- Missed the first two periods of the 67s game last night because I had a softball game, but one thing is clear to anyone who saw the game or not:First rule of playing the Knights is stay out

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1114659114241176572005-04-27T23:04:00.000-04:002005-04-27T23:31:54.243-04:00

Just got back from game 4 and had to bang out some quick thoughts before heading to bed. No detailed thoughts, just a quick brain dump.Didn't bring the camera tonight but was sitting up in Base Camp 2, Row GG tonight so it wouldn't have mattered anyway. We also ended up in the middle of a bunch of Petes fans again. Not sure what I did to deserve that two games in a row.The 67s came out flyng and

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1114313243044594822005-04-23T23:08:00.000-04:002005-04-23T23:27:23.043-04:00

Following in the Clay Bellinger tradition of former Yankee utility infielders, turned Lynx utility infielders, Enrique Wilson was added to the Lynx roster today. Now the Lynx just need Pedro Martinez to do a rehab stint at Norfolk.In other Lynx news, you've gotta love Walter Young's early league-leading Bondsian line of .500/.556/.750. Youch!Finally, the Lynx spit a doubleheader in Rochester

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1114312096808112532005-04-23T22:36:00.000-04:002005-04-23T23:08:16.810-04:00

One of the small joys of getting my 67s tickets through the ticket program at work is that I never know where I'm going to sit until I arrive and pick up my tickets at the Will Call window. I always end up somewhere new, and usually in pretty good seats.Tonight we walked down to our seats under the roof in section 4 and found ourselves surrounded in Peterborough purple (mauve? violet? far from

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1114285519200707502005-04-23T15:15:00.000-04:002005-04-23T15:45:19.200-04:00

Welcome to anyone who saw the mention in the Ottawa Citizen (subscriber only although Lana at Place and Thyme took the time to scan it) this morning.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1114137303112492772005-04-21T22:07:00.000-04:002005-04-22T12:56:53.510-04:00

Boys and girls, tonight's number is three. Three goals for the win. Three straight series-opening road wins. Three wins away from the OHL finals (and possibly, even likely, a Memorial Cup berth).The 67s were lucky to win tonight. They played a decent game, but far from their best. The Petes had the 67s pinned in their own end for much of the third period. Other than their final chance, the 67s

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1113959402370366252005-04-19T21:10:00.000-04:002005-04-19T21:10:02.373-04:00

Well, as optimistic as my parting hopes were, they were ore or less bang-on. The 67s are indeed through to the Eastern Conference finals, and while the Lynx didn't go on an 8-game tear, they did win 5 of 8 (including a split in front of a big crowd on Saturday) and both games since then to go to 7-5 and a share of first.Meanwhile, never one to take my responsibilities lightly, I spent my week

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1113082474201128812005-04-09T17:28:00.000-04:002005-04-09T17:34:34.203-04:00

I'm outta here for a week, to return next Sunday, hopefully to do a 3rd round preview for the 67s and to talk about how the an Opening Day sellout greeted the Lynx home to see them sweep a twin bill and extend their 8-game win streak, pushing their record to 8-2.A fella can hope.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1112847021450748462005-04-07T00:07:00.000-04:002005-04-07T00:10:21.450-04:00

Another story that caught my eye today didn't involve the Lynx opener, but rather opening links.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1112846565875507182005-04-06T23:57:00.000-04:002005-04-07T08:17:37.646-04:00

(Note: Since this is the Wild West hinterlands of the blogosphere, I'm going to try something new and write this preview iteratively. Rather than wait until the article is complete, which certainly won't be until after tomorrow's season opener in Louisville, and possibly wouldn't be until after I get back from vacation on April 17th. For now, I've filled in many of the main players. I will

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1112749387936957882005-04-05T21:08:00.000-04:002005-04-05T21:04:27.993-04:00

I've been having some fun tonight playng around with the new Google Maps satellite imagery functionality. In addition to finding my own house (yes, the potholes on Strandherd can be seen from space), along with those of a few family members, I tracked down a few Ottawa landmarks:- Lynx Stadium- Lansdowne Park/Frank Clair Stadium- Corel Centre- finally, as required by municipal bylaw, NCC

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1112747829002874832005-04-05T20:41:00.000-04:002005-04-05T20:43:00.610-04:00

Weathering the storm and kicking ass. That about sums up the 67s in game 6 of their first round series with the Barrie Colts. During the few moments when they weren't killing one of their 15 penalties (including five 5-3s, most for over a minute), the 67s were filling the net behind Francois Thuot.You've read the summary by now, so just a few notes:- the gamesheet doesn't include this level of

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1112631631058478742005-04-04T12:40:00.000-04:002005-04-05T08:13:21.570-04:00

The latest from a busy day in Ottawa sports news:- Frank "The Professor" Clair passed away at the age of 87. Although it's before my time, he was one of the great coaches in Rough Riders and CFL history.- After leaving Danny Battochio high, dry, and shell-shocked throughout most of yesterday's 3-2 loss to the Colts, the 67s are back at the Civic Centre to try it again at 7:30 tonight. Little is

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1112419951010539112005-04-02T00:47:00.000-05:002005-04-05T08:14:35.233-04:00

The 67s draw the first penalty of the game.On the ensuing powerplay, the Colts pass it across for a one-timer. They wouldn't score on this one, but would open the scoring seconds later.Let's make some NOISE!!!!One of the things I love about 67s games is the atmosphere. Tonight was my first playoff experience, and while it wasn't as intense as a Senators playoff game, it was a notch up from the

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1112419152941398672005-04-02T00:21:00.000-05:002005-04-05T08:15:15.136-04:00

Although I wasn't able to attend Wednesday's game 3 at the Civic Centre, I was there tonight, trusty crappy camera in hand for game 4 against the Colts.It's an ongoing Hitchcock movie waiting to see which 67s team will show up, or even if they will show up. In the early going, it loooked like they might not. Barrie outshot the 67s badly early and jumped out to a early 1-0 ead. Although the 67s

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1111882299431496322005-03-26T19:12:00.000-05:002005-03-26T19:11:39.433-05:00

Springtime's sporting rituals take their toll. You've got to be at the top of your game and want it more. Only the toughest and fastest survive. It takes 110%And that's just the fans. I admit my form was a bit lax on Thursday. A winter without many sporting events to watch left me rusty and slow on the draw. I tried my best to navigate successfully between the 67s and March Madness, but failed.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1111462873055432762005-03-21T22:41:00.000-05:002005-03-21T22:44:53.806-05:00

Well, the Ravens came out guns a blazin' last night and, led by Osvaldo Jeanty's 24 (8 of 12 from 3-point land), shot the lights out. Some sloppy turnovers allowed the Stingers to keep it close for a while, but the Ravens pulled away in the seond half to secure the threepeat.What's even more remarkable that pulling off the trio to start with is that a fourth title may not be far-fetched. On court

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1111351957999768112005-03-20T15:36:00.000-05:002005-03-20T18:27:11.083-05:00

Welcome to anyone who heard about this site from the Tech Now segment on CJOH.I mostly write about the Ottawa sports scene but reserve the right to wildly digress, or worse, disappear, during slow times of sport...or busy times of life. I've also been known to post a few amateur photos from baseball, football, and hockey spots 'round town.My archives are linked on the right. There are also some

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1111350999807359462005-03-20T15:09:00.000-05:002005-03-20T15:36:39.810-05:00

Didn't get a chance to write about it yesterday, but the Ravens quelled any chance of an Ottawa U upset with a handy 69-47 win over the Gee Gees Friday night. They followed that up yesterday, surviving a second half letdown to post a 67-65 win over St. F.X.. They tip off against Concordia for a third straight national title in a few minutes.While the Ravens run to the final was more or less

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1111168163269511382005-03-18T12:46:00.000-05:002005-03-18T12:49:23.270-05:00

And it's on.The Ravens try to make it 76 straight, while the Gee Gees try to win their first in 5 closely-fought meetings this year.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1111101437110570222005-03-17T17:58:00.000-05:002005-03-18T12:52:18.763-05:00

The brackets are drawn. Tip-off is about ready to go.Although (unfortunately) perennially lost in the huge shadow of our southern neighbour's college tourney, the Canadian version of March Madness also kicks off today, with both Ottawa universities in the hunt.Almost two weeks to the day after they clashed in a thrilling OUA East Final, The Ravens and GeeGees may be on a collision course for

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1110772248338637942005-03-13T22:44:00.000-05:002005-03-16T18:00:36.350-05:00

Aquietgirl at Hockey Will Tear us Apart has been spending some quality time with a camera in and around GTA rinks (although they could just as easily be any community rink in the country).

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1109817820133748922005-03-02T21:47:00.000-05:002005-03-02T21:46:49.120-05:00

I've been, aside from passing on a single Bill Simmons quote, silent about the NHL lockout. Partly, I've always been mostly uninterested in the business side of the game. The sport is what I love. Mostly, I'm sick of constantly hearing the that the latest news is that there is no news. Generalissimo Franco's NHL season is indeed still dead.In any case, the torch for my general school of thought

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1109561524861974502005-02-27T22:26:00.000-05:002005-02-27T22:32:04.866-05:00

I have to take the blame for the 10th end of this afternoon's Scott final. Maybe the clock didn't strike midnight, but it did strike 3:30, and I had to step away from the TV and drive my wife to the airport. It was 6-4 heading to the 10th end. What's the worst that could happen? A deuce to force an extra end where Hanna would have the hammer?Well, as I pulled up to the curb, I heard that the

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1107579171408769542005-02-04T23:48:00.000-05:002005-02-04T23:52:51.410-05:00

The Sports Guy proves once again why he's one of the most entertaining columnists out there as he delivers the best line I've heard yet on the NHL lockout: Now the owners are pushing for massive pay cuts and a salary cap. It's like dropping 10 grand in a casino and then calling for the abolition of blackjack. Check out the full column here.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1106875849494514552005-01-27T20:28:00.000-05:002005-01-27T20:30:49.493-05:00

Available here

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1106456382064643732005-01-22T23:57:00.000-05:002005-01-22T23:59:42.063-05:00

It was nice to be back at the Corel Centre for a professional hockey game. It was even nicer to be able to afford tickets at centre ice, in the lower bowl. It's the closest I've ever been for a game at the Corel Centre, a great vantage point for viewing a 4-3 Senators victory. The game started with a bang. Brian McGratton dropped the gloves with Nathan Perrott a mere two seconds in. Just over

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1106197786778758242005-01-20T00:09:00.000-05:002005-01-20T00:09:46.776-05:00

"Hola, amigos been a long time since I rapped at ya" - Jim Anchower ....and for good reason. Without the Sens, things are pretty quiet 'round here. I've been watching the 67s pretty closely this year, but that hasn't translated to words so far. The Renegades, forced into doing something, made the surprising move of bringing back Joe Paopao, not only as coach, but as GM. While I like Paopao,

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1101947443023521952004-12-01T19:17:00.000-05:002004-12-01T19:30:43.023-05:00

...Binghamton Senators, of course, tonight on TSN. These days you take what you can get, even if it involves Bowen and Healy as analysts. Regardless it's nice to come home in anticipation of watching a Sens game. Spezza leads the Baby Sens with 29 points in 21 games.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1101519135149804662004-11-26T20:30:00.000-05:002004-11-26T20:32:15.150-05:00

Another sign that planners had all the vitals covered.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1101340663324934432004-11-24T18:55:00.000-05:002004-11-24T18:57:43.323-05:00

Get Russ Jackson a star.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1101340268385935622004-11-24T18:46:00.000-05:002004-11-24T18:51:08.386-05:00

The state of Brad Watters' voice on the TEAM 1200 Monday afternoon told much of how the Grey Cup went. It was a gravelly and weary voice, the voice of someone who has poured every last drop of energy into planning and celebrating the big event. And what an event it was! There were a lot of people worn out voices and bodies that dragged themselves into work Monday after spending the weekend as

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1101336000733247812004-11-24T17:40:00.000-05:002004-11-24T18:00:09.710-05:00

The Lions warm up... Fiery intros... The Anthem... 51,242 chime in on O Canada. Fireworks before kickoff... The 92nd Grey Cup kicks off... (It must have been a good game because I forgot to take any more pictures until the) Argos celebration!! Posted by Hello

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1101145407349330732004-11-22T12:45:00.000-05:002004-11-22T18:01:27.326-05:00

You'll have to excuse me, I'm not at my best I've been gone for a month, I've been drunk since I left These so-called vacations will soon be my death I'm so sick from the drink, I need home for a rest... I'll write something a bit more verbose tonight, possibly even with some of the pics I snapped, but I want to give a few quick impressions of my first Grey Cup. Relatively speaking, I'm not

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1100320336203784372004-11-12T22:52:00.000-05:002004-11-12T23:32:16.203-05:00

Just returned from my first 67s game of the year. It was an excellent game that had a little bit of everything: a bit of scoring, some hitting, fighting, and lots of goaltending, including a nifty glove save by 67s goalie Anthony Guadagnolo late in OT to preserve the tie. Mostly though, I just enjoyed being at a hockey game again. I love the atmosphere at junior hockey games even if the general

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1100301508545866782004-11-12T18:12:00.000-05:002004-11-12T23:35:42.503-05:00

Surfing (do people really still call it that? Browsing maybe?) around prior to heading to tonight's 67s game against the Peterborough Petes I came across an Ottawa 67s blog. I'm glad to see someone blogging about the 67s since I sure haven't been giving them all the coverage they deserve over the last while. Update: I've added the Ottawa 67s Fan blog to the sidebar.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1099464134181172062004-11-03T01:37:00.000-05:002004-11-03T01:45:44.546-05:00

Stepping aside from my mad novel dash for an evening, I just couldn't resist immediately diving into the shiny new copy of Citizen columnist Wayne Scanlan's new book about Roger Neilson - Roger's World: The Life and Unusual Times of Roger Neilson. It was a detour well worth taking. At a fairly svelte 212 pages, Roger's World is a quick read, but it's a good one. Packed with funny anecdotes -

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1099328973358348802004-11-01T12:06:00.000-05:002004-11-01T12:09:33.356-05:00

Posting may be light(er) in November since: a) no Senators to write about b) no Renegades news to write about, and mostly because, c) most of my writing energy will be going toward a mad novel sprint Of course, since I'll be at the computer hacking away anyway, I may end up posting even more, maybe even on topic. And of course I'll write all bout the Grey Cup.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1099074161494243492004-10-29T14:20:00.000-04:002004-10-29T14:22:41.493-04:00

...is considering retirement. Hopefully he won't, but for those of you attending the game tomorrow, be sure to give him an extra large ovation when you hear his name, just in case.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1098982328577634712004-10-28T12:53:00.000-04:002004-10-28T13:06:57.443-04:00

For the next couple of weeks, Ottawasportsblog will be Ottawagreycupblog. First, I've added a link to the official Grey Cup site on the sidebar. Some other potentially useful links. The choice in official events is staggering. OttawaStart has a roundup of Grey Cup links and news. The city of Ottawa site has some key info on transportation and road closures. Looks like I may end up walking

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1098937110280497302004-10-28T01:19:00.000-04:002004-10-28T09:41:21.763-04:00

The Red Sox have been crowned champions and baseball is over for the season. The lockout has just officially begun for me. Grey Cup on the horizon but sports prairies beyond.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1098929929212163402004-10-27T22:17:00.000-04:002004-10-27T22:18:49.213-04:00

It's official. The Lynx will be back for another season.

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1098888845928009452004-10-27T11:39:00.000-04:002004-10-27T10:54:05.926-04:00

Despite how this season has gone, "happy Renegades news" is not always an oxymoron. The Renegades recognized the bright spots in a disappointing season yesterday in choosing their nominees for the CFL's annual awards. And the nominees are... Outstanding player: Josh Ranek (although still criminally underused at times, Ranek is leads the team in TDs with 10 and is only 29 yards from another

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1098721766161153832004-10-25T12:30:00.000-04:002004-10-25T13:19:14.710-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, I compiled a list of hockey books that I wanted to write an article about. Since it looks like I won't be getting to that for a while, here's the list with Reader's Digest Condensed comment/description of each. I hope to provide more detailed reviews of many of them throughout the long, NHL-less winter. The Silver 7 The must reads... 1. Tropic of Hockey - Dave Bidini

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6190536.post-1098720125116096022004-10-25T12:02:00.000-04:002004-10-25T12:04:30.390-04:00

Writing this blog has given me a new appreciation for sportswriters trying to work up the motivation to write after yet another ugly Renegades loss. I suppose getting paid and getting free food in the press box helps. Recieiving no such monetary or culinary compensation, I lack the motivation to go into great detail anymore. Checking the archives, or the papers, for analyses of almost any of the

MikeMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12559772773697633093noreply@blogger.com