Welcome to Hockey Freaks II

Well, That's It Folks....

2011-08-06T23:12:00.002-06:00

I had a tough time deciding this but this will be my last post, maybe forever or maybe for a long time. I am leaning towards forever. I love my blog and sharing my successes but just don't have the same 'drive' to upkeep it. I will keep the blog up, I am going to try to turn it into a hardcover book. I will still keep collecting, can't give that up but have even turned down some chances this past summer. I will hang around so to speak so if you have a question or want to share something, go for it, I will respond quick. Plus, I will keep checking for other successes on other collector blogs, I love this hobby that much. I will be twittering when I get something so follow me there if you want. So all the best to you guys and see yah!
PS...I am keeping www.hockeyfreaks.ca, that's too cool to give up

Telus Skins Game Monday Tuesday TSN

2011-07-22T21:11:00.003-06:00

Telus Skins game is in Banff Alberta this Mon/Tues. Lucas Glover, Paul Casey, Johnny Vegas, Stephen Ames and Anthony Kim will be battling it out in Banff with the proceeds going toward the Alberta Cancer Clinic. The Pro Am in the am usually is the best spot for autographs so if you're curious follow me on twitter @kcwalt and I will send updates and pics throughout the day! #telusworldskinsgame

Luke Schenn and Johnny Bower-Leafs Day!

2011-07-11T23:38:00.003-06:00

I just received these in the mail from Frozen Pond this week. I sent the Schenn jersey in for the signing there earlier and the Bower #1 was from Bowers signing in March. This was the signing where Mr. Bower confirmed the send in jersey from johnnybower.net was authentic. Just to make sure though, I told them to get a #1 signed for me and if the other jersey was not real, I could just trade the #1 over. Luckily, both Bower jerseys are real and that makes the Bower jersey count; 4. The Schenn jersey count; 4 also.

Jarret Stoll Golf Tournament 2011-WoW

2011-06-23T20:25:00.006-06:00

Boston Pizza did not sponsor this event this year so the crew headed down to the Riverlanding Area in Saskatoon for the yearly autograph session for Jarret Stoll's fundraiser for the Royal University Hospital children's ward. We showed up early, sticking with my "Let's be 10th in line instead of 100th". We could have been easily 1st. But that's not cool with 100 kids running around. They set the tables and chairs up and we stood in line, about 15th, good enough. I was pleasantly surprised they set up about 20 chairs. Which means, most of the players would attend the autograph session. The players all arrived and met the local boy, Colby Armstrong who probably came from his house instead of the hotel. We planned out our attack so things did not get messed up. Colby was first so I got out my #9 for another Leafs jersey. He knows who I am by now so we had some small talk and I asked him to sign my #9 with the 'Twitter King' reference. Paul Bissonnette was two down from Colby and I would tell him to do the same. Colby loved the idea and signed. Ethan Morueau was next signing a Blue Jackets puck for me. Wow, is he a large man, hate to get hit on the ice by him. Biz Nasty 2.o was next, and yes he dropped an 'F' bomb, and yup lots of kids heard. He signed the #1 and added Twitter King also. The Twitter thing got down the line and all the guys got a laugh from it. Very cool...The next two players I would have loved to get but just never thought they'd show for it, Steve Ott and Mike Weber. Oh well just a hearty hand shake. Sheldon Brookbank was next and he's signed for me before so I never bothered with anything for him either. Scott Hartnell was next and he signed a #1 for me personalizing it. I had a large bag with stuff and it always seems the guys think I'm a dealer. That's why I think I almost always have it personalized. My wife was behind me getting some other stuff signed, she takes pics of the guys signing, again players often think she's selling the item. They never comment but dealers really kill the hobby IMO. Nick Schultz was next and he signed a Wild puck, chatted about Cory Sarich's golf tourney in Davidson for a bit. The man was next, Jarret Stoll. He signed my Kings jersey for me and I donated some cash for his charity. He always says, "Thanks for helping out." I kept going and a lady taped me on the shoulder and handed me a signed Stoll card with puck in a case for the donation, cool. Luke Schenn was sitting with Kieth Aulie. I handed Luke a Schenn jersey to sign and explained it was for a class field trip fundraiser to Europe. He said cool and handed it to Aulie. Aulie signed it too and Schenn tried to stop him because it was an auction item. He signed it and I just said, "At least he's a Leaf.." Oh well....My wife got a Schenn Team Canada jersey signed, turnout so nice...Carter Ashton signed a black #1 for me, said I thought hed stick with the team. Drew Doughty was towards the end and I just shook his hand, no jersey or puck to sign. I have three of both. :D I asked for a pic with Drew and he told me to come around, great guy. We came to Brayden Schenn, who was traded an hour before the autograph session. I felt bad for him, he looked shocked and upset. He signed a white on black #1 for me and I just said it was great watching play around here and I wished him the best. Now I'm not sure if this turns into a Flyers jersey or Canadians...Great Kid.....Brad Richardson was second to last and then Darcy Hordichuk was the last player. I grew up about an hour from him and played with Tyler Wright (Columbus Blue Jackets) from Kamsack, his hometown. We chatted for quite awhile and I asked about Kamsack. We just have too many great guys from Saskatchewan! We walked away and I notice more guys at the end of the last table. Clark MacArthur and Tyler Bozak showed up. We stood back in line but that was fine, I got pics with the guys I wanted while waiting. When we got to the Leafs, Clark had some small 5x7s and asked if I wanted one. Cool....
I was surprised to see what my awesome wife got signed after me. She got lots of pucks signed and another Stoll jersey, great gal this one! She asked Scott Hartnell for an 8x10 he was handing out to kids. Remember the rule sometimes for getting extras? Use the cute wife..Works every time. Here's the loot......

Do You Rememeber What Time of Year it Is?

2011-06-22T16:45:00.001-06:00

Check back tomorrow night for the details....

Stanley Cup Again?

2011-05-22T20:03:00.002-06:00

Ha, made you look...Sorry....
The Stanley Cup has a 3 in 4 chance to return to this great province. I am a diehard Flames fan, we know that but this time of year, I pay attention to the semi's to see which awesome Saskatchewan player will BRING IT...home. So the Big Bad Bruins need to loose and I will get a 5th chance to see Lord Stanley's Holy Grail.

The Saskatchewan Roughriders

2011-05-16T19:42:00.003-06:00

I knew that a few Riders would be in town at the Man Show this weekend. I ended up playing 18 holes of golf on Friday and missed players the show. So Weston Dressler and Luc Mullinder were in town and they often show up in other places. I was planning on Saturday to head to a new Canadian Tire and get Darian Durant on a #4 for the last Rider jersey I plan to make. Remember, he was the exception. We had an hour to kill before the Durant 1:00pm signing and headed to another mall. If I would have thought about it, The Rider Store is in this mall and chances are...
Sure enough, we walked in to see the traditional table setup in front of the Rider Store and that means someone is signing that day. There were 3 people in line to get all three players autographs. I ran to the vehicle and grabbed my #4 (the black is not attached so it looks off a little). Darian signed the #4 and I told him I was head up to Canadian Tire so this saved me a couple of hours. He asked were the new store was. I gave him my best set of directions, which probably was not good and even jokingly offered to drive him. I said to Durant, "With him and the controls, we'll get back there every time." He said, "Thanks!"
We got our pics with Darian and my wife went shopping for awhile. I walked around and headed back into the store to buy pics of the guys, what the heck kinda thing. Both guys signed for me and that was a day!

Man I Love This Province!

2011-05-03T21:48:00.002-06:00

If you have ever read the opening of my blog or any post in June, you will not see this as any surprise. The Jarret Stoll golf tourney is coming up, lots of players to attend, plus the Saskatchewan Children's Hospital is having a WHL fundraiser in early June. Now, think about who has come out of the WHL in the last 7 years and is from Saskatchewan or played here. So announced today, Jordan Eberle, Luke Schenn, Colby Armstrong among other players will be riding their bikes from Prince Albert, Sk to Saskatoon Sk to help raise money for the hospital. They claim numerous NHL'ers, former NHL'ers, and current WHL'ers will be around for activities.

Wayne Gretzky Autographed Ranger Photo Last Game-Personalized

2011-05-01T20:08:00.001-06:00

As promised, I received 4 signed photos all personalized. This is a beautiful 8x10 from WGA, so Wayne Gretzky's desk...lol! So does this go in the frame? Walter G is a great man, thanks so much!

Wayne Gretzky Autographed Ranger Photo Last Game-Personalized

2011-04-29T12:13:00.002-06:00

I received my signed Wayne Gretzky last game photos from Walter Gretzky today as promised. Personalized to each of us! Photos on Sunday! Wow....

Getzlaf IP-Signed Jersey!

2011-04-16T13:43:00.010-06:00

Chris Getzlaf, from the Saskatchewan Roughriders was in town along with Running Back Neil Hughes to sign autographs and meet the fans at our trade show. I am super sick with pneumonia so the best wife in the world went down to attend to business. The line was not too long but while waiting, she met an older man with a neat jersey. He told her the story of how his son met Jason Clarmont of the Riders in the winter. Most of the Riders have winter jobs in Regina so it's very common to come across some of them doing mostly professional jobs; Clarmont owns a real estate company in Regina. He gave the gentleman this;

A retro signed Rider jersey

look real close to this pic, save it, zoom in on his right hand. Grey Cup Ring!

These will be custom Rider jerseys, as usual. The Makowsky jersey is almost done. I really don't want to get into Rider jerseys, too expensive. $90 a jersey that never goes on sale and never on eBay. No one sells their jerseys. Durant is the only exception to this now. And he is easy to get...

My camera hates florescent lights, steady shot, blurry pic.

She bbm me with the message; "Done".
Cool...

More Walter Gretzky

2011-04-15T20:23:00.004-06:00

The girls are Team Canada's Team and the World Junior Curling Championship,this year's Silver Medalist and Mike McCullough.

The thing I planned with Walter Gretzky was to bring up history with him. After all, that's what Wayne told about his dad; he loves history. The dinner was very informal and as stated before Walter was the host, he mingled with everyone. I managed to talk to him before dinner and had the pic of Wayne and I to show Walter. I said exactly what Wayne said, "You should talk to my dad, he knows everything about history." Walter looked at our picture and he started talking history. He was as passionate about it as I was, I teach it for a living. I commented on Wayne being a very classy man and he did a great job with him. He told me two or three stories about Wayne and I just smiled. He thanked me for saying that to him about Wayne, saying not many would have done that for him. He looked at the picture again and asked if he should sign it, I said that would be great. He shook my hand and continued on his way. That was a 15 min conversation with Walter Gretzky. My wife said he was really taken with me from that point. He came over to our table 2 times to check on us and ask us questions. She figured I made an impression on him and that's why he said he would send me some signed pictures of Wayne. He was a comedian when he spoke, very funny. But someone at our table wondered why he only told a few stories about Wayne. After his brain aneurysm, he remembers nothing about Wayne's career.

A Flames Day, Gotta Love 'Em!

2011-04-15T20:14:00.006-06:00

Today's mail brought many things, all Flames related.

Craig Conroy Signed Team USA Jersey

Jamie Lundmark's Game Worn jersey

I almost never buy autographs, lord knows I have too many already but when you collect a player and know their autograph, you can make a safe purchase.
Theo Fleury signed #4, my wife wanted a Flames jersey and both Fleury jerseys I have are actually Team Canada.

Funny Stuff

2011-04-13T21:29:00.003-06:00

Seperated at Birth

Well, That Might Rank Up There....

2011-04-09T23:04:00.008-06:00

$145 for a signed Joe Sakic puck from Pacific Coast Memorabilia. $50 steak knives came with it too so not a bad deal.

Guess what this is?

Get in line to say I suck;
Wayne Gretzky's Team Canada 1987 Championship Ring on my finger, Walter told me to put it up to my face like that. He mentioned the four diamonds on the top signify the Canada Cup held every 4 years.

Tonight we attended the Strongfield Elks Charity Sports Dinner. The guest speaker was the most famous hockey dad, Walter Gretzky. Other highlights were Mike McCullough plus the World Silver Medalist Junior Curlers from the area. Both Mike and Walter were already mingling as we walked in. Walter spoke to everyone in the place, all 200 guests. He signed autographs and took pictures with anyone who asked. He needed to see the picture before you could walk away though, had to pass his test. He also staged the picture telling our friend where to stand. He signed my Gretzky jersey, making 4 signed Gretzky jerseys.LOL...
He had pre-signed a lot of little cards then just personalized the name. I told him the story about meeting Wayne and talking to him about teaching history. I showed him the pic of Wayne and I and he laughed. I then got the Gretzky history quiz. I got 50%...2 out of 4. He took my name and address, get back in line now.
He told me to write down 5 people including myself and they would receive signed Wayne Gretzky 8x10's within the month. Wow...
I am now dog arse tired so more stories, pics and some videos tomorrow.

Check Back Tonight for A Really Cool Post...

2011-04-09T10:56:00.002-06:00

Tis the season, check back later tonight....

Trip to the Local Hobby Shop, GARBAGE, Kinda...

2011-03-27T13:37:00.006-06:00

My trip to my fav hobby shop yesterday made me realize a few things. The UD Sp Game Used is GARBAGE! Yes, many packs later, I have never pulled an auto from a pack. I bought 3 yesterday and this was my loot. GARBAGE! So walking around the store I came across these fine items to add to my collection. Brayden plays his junior in town so I flipped this over to see the COA was from the Saskatoon Blades. $40...Cool. The Rider mini-helmet was a little more cash but Andy Fantuz is now a Bear so these items are going to be tough to find very soon. Now the funny thing, collectors are competitive people but wow...A fellow in the hobby shop was shooting his mouth off about the Schenn brothers. They claimed they had the best Schenn collection in town. Hmm, want to compare Gretzky jerseys collections too buddy....I just laughed and walked away....

Colby Armstrong Team Canada Jersey

2011-03-21T20:02:00.002-06:00

Look on the right side, Henderson jersey pics added today!

I sent a number into AJ Sports before Xmas and finally got around to getting it sent back. I have met Colby numerous times but thought a Colby Team Canada jersey would be, you know, kinda cool. Anyway, this was signed 2007 WC, thought that was a nice touch.

Paul Henderson's Team Canada 1972 Jersey

2011-03-20T19:19:00.007-06:00

The Paul Henderson's Team Canada 1972 Jersey Tour was in Saskatoon today. The tour is funded by Smart Centres owned by Mitchell Goldhar and is traveling across Canada to share the jersey with Canadians. I was there a few minutes after it opened to be welcomed at the door by a Tour Worker. He was welcoming and held the door open for me. The first area was a small room which had a few Team Canada items. The first was a framed Team Canada 1972 Card set. This is where is got very cool, very quick. The whole card set was signed by Team Canada 1972 Team. This was owned by Mr. Henderson and on loan to the Tour. I was impressed by the entrance and the lady offered me a 1972 Goal Scarf and button. Hmmm, very cool.

I went through the curtain to see the Holy Grail of sports collectibles and sports memorabilia.
I honestly was at a loss for words at first. We are all collectors and here was perhaps the top piece of sports memorabilia in Canada. I took pictures of the displays, it was hard to believe the entire display area was on the back of a semi truck. There was lots of room to walk and even sit down. I overheard one of the workers tell a patron Mr. Henderson would not sign autographs. They were afraid people would be lined up around the block in each city and loose the appeal of the jersey. Eeek, that sucks. That would have made my top 3 for sure but oh well....
They announced that Mr. Henderson would be showing up at 1:00pm and we could just hang out and wait. So, I sat at the bench in front of his jersey and took pictures, yes for 20 mins, I took close to 50 pictures of the same thing. But, well worth it.
I had my back turned to the jersey and heard Mr. Henderson's voice. He showed up just after 1:00 laughing that his 6 concussions was the reason why he was late. He told stories and took questions from the audience. I asked him if, they were ever scared if they had any success while playing in Moscow. He said they were not scared but nervous. They were locked down at night and had to hand their keys in to the desk at night. He also mentioned that he thought the whole area Team Canada was in was bugged so they never offered anything but some, as Mr. Henderson said, "They'd think I was a great lover!"
I will post a few more stories and post all of the picture tomorrow. And no autographs, but answer me this; should I be mad? I don't feel disappointed at all. Would you be?
A picture with Paul Henderson with his jersey while you're wearing a Team Canada jersey.

Check Back Sunday Night for a Huge Surprise!

2011-03-18T21:43:00.005-06:00

If you thought anything I have got in the last year has been cool, this might be top 3. Trust me, check back Sunday and no hints!

Wow, A Very Cool Night...A Guy Name Bower....

2011-03-16T19:51:00.014-06:00

We attended the Oldtimer Game tonight and wow, a very cool night. The pregame public skate brought out Gary Leeman and Bernie Nicholls. They skated with people, signed autographs and chatted with everyone. I asked Bernie for a pic and to sign and puck and he was more than happy to oblige. I chatted with Bernie and asked him a few questions about what he has been up to. He mentioned he was at Gretzky's Fantasy Camp three weeks ago and he is a ready to go moose hunting soon. He is a down to earth guy, very cool to chat with.

We headed up to grab our seats and were pleasantly surprised with someone we ran into.

Theo signed and took pics with about 15 people. He looks very happy with his life now. I grew up in the town next to Theo and was buddy's with his brother growing up. I mentioned this to Theo and he said that Teddy was upstairs. I went up to find him and we chatted for about 15 mins. I bought the Theo Team Canada photo for $20.
Good deal.
I was not prepared to buy a $120 Oldtimer jersey again, so I made sure I got all the things signed that I brought.

Top R-L Igor Kravchuk, Bryan Trottier, Val Bure Theo Fleury, Bernie Nicholls, Val Bure Trottier Card
Hey, I am being a jerk now...Here's the good stuff.....

This was really cool to have Mr. Bower in attendance. He signed for a charge though, a little step but I finally got my own Bower jersey signed in person. I have 4 signed Bower jerseys now, only 1 signed in person. I mentioned I met him in Spiritwood and he smiled and said how much fun that was. So, $40 to get a signed Johnny Bower jersey when he's sitting right in front of you, would you do it? Yah, I didn't even blink....

Signed Theo Fleury Team Canada Jersey (no nameplate yet though)

Some Items Have to Go!

2011-03-12T16:25:00.003-06:00

I am cleaning out my closet, some items are now up for auction if you are interested. I now have almost too much. I hate to do this but I still have a stack of about 15 signed numbers so some of jerseys, photos and helmet have to go!
Doug Gilmour Leafs jersey
Wendel Clark Signed Leafs Helmet
Gagner/Cogliano signed photo
Theo Fleury Signed Book
LOTS!
http://shop.ebay.ca/kcsummer2004/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562

Gene Makowsky Signed CFL Football and Rider Jersey

2011-03-05T21:29:00.004-06:00

This time of year is usually -40 with the wind and yes there are snow banks as high as my deck. But you can also count on our trusty Saskatchewan Roughriders to attend community events all over Saskatchewan. Today, Gene Makowsky, Grey Cup Champ 2007, made an appearance at a cattle booth to sign autographs. Gene is from Saskatoon and is a trained teacher with a B.Ed Degree, the same as me. He subs in the off season and is a real pleasure to chat with. I went to high school and university with Gene, never spoke to him but there was some 800 students at my high school. I mentioned to him a few years ago that we went to high school and university and both are teachers. No longer was the conversation about the CFL football but school dynamics. I got a football signed by Geno and a few other Riders three weeks ago and he remembered the meeting. I do always mention the teaching thing and he it triggers his memory. Today was not different, he called me by name and we chatted again about teaching and he signed my jersey and football. I am not crazy about where he signed it but oh well. Gene is a great guy and it's always neat to chat with him.
Now I hope you finish reading this blog entry, April 9, we're having supper with Gretzky, Walter Gretzky.

Luke Schenn Black Diamond Game Night Ticket

2011-03-01T18:07:00.003-06:00

I really like this one...

Jersey Updates Weston Dressler

2011-02-28T21:24:00.004-06:00

Found the Rider jersey on Kijiji for cheap so finished the Weston Dressler jersey. My wife was going to take it but ended up wanting the new jersey with black on the arm instead of the retro. She has a Dressler signed #7 too so her's will have white on black.
The Ranger 99 jersey needs the other 9 and the nameplate to finish. That will make 3... I really like the Starter brand jerseys too, kinda cool looking.

Brayden Schenn ITG

2011-02-28T19:04:00.003-06:00

Notice the number, cool eh? I was watching today to see if Dean Lombardi would pull the trigger on a deal to see Brayden head to Edmonton. TSN said he's tearing up the WHL with Hamilton, why not make them teammates? But I was happy to see him stay a King. Trading him would be like the Oilers trading Hall or Eberle.

Card Show Day, First of the Year...

2011-02-27T16:54:00.005-06:00

Perhaps my fav of the group, $1.25!

A Jay Bo signed card, $1.50...

$1.00

I have met him once and started collecting him, hat trick the other night too!

Perhaps the most interesting of the bunch.

This appears to be the Dallas crest, any thoughts?

You know me, ex-Flame...

Lots, But No IP's

2011-02-12T09:37:00.006-06:00

This one is on the trading block. Send me offers, Flames players!

We ended up getting free tickets to the Saskatoon Blades game last night and were heading in the the city so thought what the heck. The Blades were playing the Prince Albert Raiders, who sit in 7th spot in the WHL. Scott Hartnall is a Raider Alumni also so it's always fun to watch the 'DUB' Teams. The was no real chance for an autograph but after the game, the Blades always have a player profile who would come up and sign for people, last night was Duncan Siemans. The Blades will sell tickets for a game used jersey, I have come so close to Schenn's and Zahn's. I dropped $15 hoping I could get it signed after the game, missed it by 200 numbers...rats....I have a real interesting video of Lukas Sutter, son of Rich Sutter who was chirping another player prior to puck drop. Once a Sutter always a Sutter. Within a few minutes, the gloves were dropped and Sutter does what a Sutter does...He was like a pitbull on the ice. This is not his draft year but he will go to someone, either 2011 or 2012. My stash is from the mail two days ago. 4/4 from Brett Hull, sent a long time ago, actually gave up on them since I met him in Oct and got the puck and jersey signed. Schenn pic from the Blades game, $3, and the Panini cards from eBay. I had to get my hands on the Craig Conroy Heritage puck, signed before retirement. I will get the Schenn photo signed maybe TTM, here it would only take about 10 days if they're in town.

Joe Joe---> Got Him!

2011-02-04T21:43:00.007-06:00

Well let's spill the beans about my last two weeks. I was playing in a rec hockey tournament two weeks ago. In the first 5 mins, I pushed some player and felt a pop in my right bicep. I knew I hurt it but played the rest on the game. By the end of the game, I could not shoot the puck 4 feet. I came off the ice and my bicep was bulged and off center. I showed my wife and she took me to the hospital. I tore my bicep just under my shoulder. I have all the tests they could do to find out no surgery, it's the John Elway tear. He won 2 Super Bowls with the same injury. It will take 3-4 months and I will get 90% of the strength back with time. It hurts like heck and I just have to deal with it. Here's the segway!

Today I had a doctor's apt with my arm and when I was finished I drove downtown to try and get Sakic. This is the same event we got Gretzky at last year. I was headed to the hotel and saw a white limo drive by me. Our city has 250, 000 people but that's Sakic, I know it. I turned around and headed to TCU. I was across the street when I saw Sakic walk into the building. I was about 20 secs late. I ran into the building but missed him. I ended up bumbing into Darian Durant in the waiting area. Only in Saskatchewan. I actually said to him, "Hi Darian, you've signed lots for me before so just wanted to say hi!" He laughed and shook my hand.

John Elway was the other speaker at the event but I was not really concerned but thought this has to be karma helping me out a little. I waited as the VIP's walked in with their jerseys and footballs. Hah, no one had silver sharpies, I had a pocket full...Evil laugh....

The emcee walked by and people, I recognized him but did not know his name. He's a sports comedian, name slips my mind! Found it...

Jim Ralph

I asked him if there was any chance to get Joe to sign. He said yah, he's a good guy, so just hang around. So I sat and waited. About 25 mins later, he came out and asked what I had. I said a Team Canada jersey and he said he would be right back and walked out the door. I knew what that meant. 20 secs later Joe Sakic walked out to head to the washroom just around the corner. I caught him and asked him for an autograph. He said, "Sure, get it ready and I'll be back." No shame when your after a future HOF'er. And no I would never enter for an autograph.LOL!

He signed for my on the '9' and I said I always thought of him when I use my snow blower. He laughed and said, "Oh thanks." I said "No for what not to do." He laughed and walked off. I said thanks so much and he said "No problem."

Kinda a dumb comment but hey, it was a long day. This may take priority to finish ahead of the Schenn Canada jersey.

No Elway but that's ok. But I left the funny part out.

I had a half hour to kill before my doc apt so I headed to the mall. I saw 2 guys with Rider jersey and my radar was spinning. I walked to Sport Chek and bought a football, they're here somewhere. There was a marathon radio event and 3 Riders were signing for people and taking pledges. Cool ball signed by Gene Makowsky, Jeremy O'Day, and Mike McCullough. And that's my story...

No Sakic Yet, But Two Blades

2011-02-03T23:34:00.005-06:00

Today brought a very interesting day. In the morning we had a visit from our local WHL Team, the Saskatoon Blades. A very strong team, currently top 5 in the CHL. Mike Green's junior team, yah they're pretty good. This is where Brayden Schenn was traded to at the deadline last month. The kids were hoping Schenn would be one of the players but we were treated with two top notch talents. Chris Collins and Darian Dziurzynski spoke to the kids about drugs and making healthy choices. Players from the WHL have traveled to BC to speak with drug addicts and take the message back to their communities. I managed to snag a couple of autographs as they were leaving the building and they were more than happy to sign a few pucks. Collins even asked if the Flyers were my favorite team, I laughed and showed the retro side of the puck and said that was all I could find. The Blades should make a run at the Memorial Cup this year, so we'll keep our fingers crossed. Now, we looked for Joe Sakic tonight with no luck. Will try again tomorrow night, wish me luck!

2010-2011 Panini Box Break, Yawn...

2011-01-29T19:47:00.005-06:00

I stopped by my favorite hobby store last weekend and picked up a few things. I was really interested in the Panini box/pack. $114 for 8 cards. I knew what you are suppose to get and thought I'd give it a try. No blooming autographs, that sucked! I showed the owner and he offered me a pack of 2010-2011 UD GUA. I told him it wasn't his fault there was no autograph but he insisted I take a pack. I opened the first UD pack and pulled the Kane/Bufflin /25 (yes I know!) card, cool, seem to be jersey logos. All in all, I was not impressed, $114 PER PACK AND I pull a $20 Perry /19/25 card and Chara jersey card. The Hall card is /25 too. Not great...

Almost Done Another Frame, Eberle!

2011-01-27T19:30:00.004-06:00

I am done with buying frames for my jerseys. This is the second one I finished on my own and I love it. It's not quite done yet, I need some matting done and then I will seal it up and put it on a wall. I won't tell you what the matting will have, but I can guarantee, you will love it. But, this is an Oiler frame, hmmm, my other homemade frame has another Oiler in it, hmmm. And I'm a Flames Fan? Yah, I have a double frame that just needs some glass which will hold a Regehr and Iggy jersey, that's next on the list. You collectors out there, the whole Oak frame cost me, $50 for the glass, $15 for the wood and $5 for the stain. These things sell for $500 in stores.

Craig Conroy for Calgary Mayor! Class Guy! Best of Luck To You Craig!

2011-01-27T18:27:00.004-06:00

It sounds like they are fighting over him in certain capacities, TSN, Heat or Flames mgt. He will be missed but will resurface somewhere. Now let's make him Mayor! Sign the petition, he needs it!

Saskatoon VS Swift Current

2011-01-15T23:59:00.005-06:00

A rather snowy night but another successful mission completed. We were a little late getting to the game and we knew tickets would not be an issue, CUC holds close to 15000 people and the Blades draw maybe 4-5000 per game. There was a buzz in the air as we stood in line and it was known that Schenn was a scratch with his shoulder. There was a ceremony for Schenn and Hamilton before the game and both the Team Canada players dropped the ceremonial puck for minor hockey players. Schenn was signing after the second period so we were able to watch most of the game. Walking around the arena after the first period, my head turned, yah there's Rich Sutter, Lukas Sutter's dad. I paused for a minute and thought 2 pucks last year and then no pucks for Brayden to sign. I really wanted to get Brayden on a Team Canada puck, and that's all I had with my jerseys. Oh well...
We were 20th in line behind many minor hockey players, we stood in line at the 12:00 min mark of the second period and they're were maybe 100 people in line within 15 mins or so. Brayden is Brayden, a down to earth, laid back, local kid. He spoke with the people, signed whatever they wanted and took some pictures. We got to the front and I asked Brayden to sign my jersey number and personalize it. He said,"Sure" and yet again, I got a "All the Best" inscription on my jersey number by the 2011 WLC MVP. My wife got the black signed of another Team Canada jersey with silver maker and my Team Canada puck. She asked him for a picture of him and he agreed. This easily could be misconstrued as a proof pic but he is who is is, cool. Another perk of the cute wife thing maybe too. Anyway, here's the loot.

Man, it was my wife's decision to get it signed in the black with silver instead of with black on the red, love it!

Brayden Schenn Is Now A Blade

2011-01-15T10:56:00.003-06:00

The Saskatoon Blades acquired from the Brandon Wheat Kings, Saskatoon native, Brayden Schenn this past week at the WHL's trade deadline. Brayden did hurt his shoulder at the WJC and is out of action for at least one more week. Now, he is the featured player at tonight's game vs the Swift Current Broncos. That means, he will be signing autographs during the second intermission and after the game. Check back tonight for the goods!

Oh CANADA!!!

2011-01-03T20:59:00.003-06:00

Being witness to last year's Gold Medal game in Saskatoon, tonight was a great payback. I am not surprised at all the kids pulled it off against Team USA. The TSN guys all claimed and hinted the US had a better team and would win the game. The legacy this tourny has created is awesome, Crosby, Toews, Hall, Eberle, Gretzky, yah it all starts here. But no one from the TSN Crew mentioned one thing, we are Canadian and this is our game!

OH CANADA!!!! DOUGHTY JERSEY

2010-12-23T20:23:00.005-06:00

SportChek had these for $49.99, had to jump at it quick. Notice the GOLD 2010 INSCR....Oh Yah!
This makes 3 Doughty jerseys now. I am glad he's a buddy of Stoll's, so maybe his JR team next year.

Ladies and Gentlemen, It's Authentic! Bower...

2010-12-21T20:18:00.003-06:00

I spoke with Frozenpond again today and was treated with a pleasant surprise. The website that I sent the jersey to was legit. They asked Mr. Bower if he knew of that site and he did, saying he has worked with them a lot in the past. He was shown this picture and authenticated it for me, saying, "Yah, that looks good, that's my signature." The rep from Frozenpond continued to say when they were watching Mr. Bower sign, some of his "J's" look like this. Good thing I waited for this, I was about to rip the #1 off. Oh yah, I got them to get Mr. Bower to sign a #1 just in case, for $25, yah that will make 3 Bower Jerseys....

Looky What I Found.....Check it Out!

2010-12-19T20:57:00.004-06:00

I totally forgot about these, purchased from CSI Sports, a reputable dealer in Ontario.

Only in Canada

2010-12-18T18:06:00.002-06:00

I had a plan about my Johnny Bower jersey. I called Frozen Pond yesterday and asked if I could get a #1 signed by Bower and out it on my 'fake' Bower jersey. I explained my situation and asked of they knew of the www.johnnybower.net site. They looked it up and it was not on the internet anymore. I knew that and assumed that helped with my question about the authenticity of the jersey (see below). The worker looked at the jersey from this blog and said it did look funny. He did say though, Bower signs almost every weekend so why would someone fake it when its actually an easy graph to get. Plus, the person sent a $150 jersey back for $35...Anyway, he took a copy of my jersey from this blog and said he will ask Bower if he knew of the site and if he can tell if that was his signature. Cool...I did not care about the $35 but really wanted to know if it was legit, this should help and for $30, I can replace if not.

Darian Durant and Lance Frazier IP

2010-12-18T17:57:00.003-06:00

Forgot about this one. Durant and Frazier were in the local Rider store two weeks ago signing for fans. I scouted the place out long in advance, bought the 8x10 hours before, laughed at the poor saps lined up for an hour just before. NHL'ers are always great signers, WHL'ers sometimes, Cowen take a lesson here. Both Riders apologized for loosing in the Grey Cup last month. I was about 10th in line and heard all of the people comment that these players were classy players. I was able to tell Durant something I really wanted to say. I told him, "You were the only player who could have got out of that to even try the throw." He looked up at me and thanked me. He will win a few Cups before he is done. He's not 30 yet, 2 trips to the Cup as a starter, 3 in total. He will only get better. Now, Andy please come back!

Eric Nystrom

2010-12-11T13:02:00.004-06:00

2005-2006 Upper Deck Glacial Graphs
I was really ticked when Calgary did not sign Eric. I know for a fact he wanted to stay, his dad told me so. Yes, Bob Nystrom told me Eric was happy in Calgary and wanted to renew his contract with them. Not so.....

Two of the Nicest Leafs, But I Need Some Help

2010-11-19T16:55:00.005-06:00

Signed Colby Armstrong Leafs Puck

This is the jersey that I tried to get signed at the Pink Warrior classic last August with no luck. Johnny's website has a send in program, where you just pay for the item ($35 for a jersey)and shipping and they get him to sign it and return to you. Most players from that generation have that, Howe, Orr and at one time, Hull. But I need your help with this one. Once I looked at it, it did not look like Mr. Bower's signature. I have lots of items from him, a jersey from Frozen Pond, cards from UD and the items from the past summer. The Bower looks good but the 'J' doesn't. Please give me feedback, a real Bower signature or not?

Blades Signed Pucks and Delaet Ball

2010-11-03T17:52:00.007-06:00

Lots of guys had balls, gloves and bags for Graham to sign. This is a Taylor Made 77 ball from the Bourque breakfast last year.

Free little 5x7's they gave out.

Benson, Brent

Benson, Brent
This is neat, $10 a pick and you get a signed puck or a prize. The guy looked at me like I was mad I picked a signed puck. I liked it!

I bought the signed card off of eBay, Stephen Ames signed the front. If it was in person, I would have got the front side signed along with Ames. But it's still a Masters scorecard signed by an future star.

Now, any Sens fans want a treat? I have a signed puck from Cowen for $5 plus shipping. I can not stand the site of it so whoever wants it, it's yours. Signed at the WJC tryouts in Saskatoon 2 summers ago, before he was a big shot I guess....

A Weird Success and A New Jerk for the Files!

2010-11-02T22:55:00.002-06:00

We went to the Saskatoon Blades game tonight, who were playing the Spokane Chiefs. The Dakota Dunes Casino was the title game sponsor so there was a guest at the game. Graham Delaet from the PGA Tour was in town and is sponsored by the Dunes so he signed autographs and took pictures with people. He's really down to earth and a local guy too. He just got his card for 2011-12 season so he was in good spirits. There was a $10 pick a puck table, where you could win about 10 prizes or an autographed Blades player puck. The prizes really did not appeal to me but the runner up prize was a signed Blades puck. I dropped the first $10 and pulled #28 Johnson, Braeden,. I decided to try it again hoping I did not win the prize but another puck, $10 dropped and I pulled #27 Benson, Brent. Young undrafted players so $20? Good in my books. Now for the JERK of the night, Jared Cowen, Ottawa Senators draft pick. The Chiefs won the game and he was the first off the ice, I asked him if he would sign a puck and he walked by and just said, "No". Now I realize the player always has the choice but he's a local kid from about 1 hour away, family at the game...Poor in my books, I had met him at the WJC in Saskatoon and he did not strike me as that type. Hmm, he was not played in the semis or finals and the WJC and was sent down to Junior this year when the Sens had room. I smell another JERK for the labels! Pics tomorrow!

Finally Done It! Check it Out, You Won't Regret it!

2010-10-31T19:45:00.006-06:00

I finally finished my Gretzky frame! It took a long time, I built it from scratch and had no idea what I was doing. I had some good friends talk me through some issues with woodworking and I plugged away...Oak frame with 3mm glass. My three signed pucks fit nicely in the bottom with lots of room for the jersey. Feels really cool to look at it on the wall. There might be some fighting in the room though, it's beside all my Flames items...lol!

Hull and Chase as Promised!

2010-10-17T20:12:00.007-06:00

Love it!

Personalized with HOF Inscriptions!
I have lots of pics and some videos to upload. I will try something new, I am going to tell some of their stories about life in the dressing room, NHL and on the road. It will be a MP3 file where you can just click to listen. These will all be uploaded in the next few days.

Brett Hull Stars Jersey, Team USA Puck and Kelly Chase Team Canada Puck

2010-10-15T16:50:00.001-06:00

I am out of town now so here's the lowdown condensed version. The U of Saskatchewan Off The Leash Luncheon was today. Guest speaker was Brett Hull and emcee was Kelly Chase. Those two were the funniest pair I have ever heard. They are buddies and it shows. I took some 100 pics and lots of videos so those will get uploaded Sunday. Brett signed my Stars jersey with HOF yearN didn't ask for that either but I did ask him to personalize it. He added "All my best". That's Taveras, Yzerman and Hull with that type of jersey, cool. I knew if I asked him to do that I'd get the extras. Chase signed my puck and his Battle of the Blades skating partner was there too. Not sure how to spell her name but she signed my puck along with Chase. I got a pic with Brett and we chatted about his dad and uncle, he gave me the gears, yah. Will tell the story Sunday. But sadly that brings an end to my season. Back to TTM and card pack breaks. Til Sunday...

Battle of the Blades

2010-10-04T20:07:00.004-06:00

Theo's charities are always great, please help by voting.

Chaser is skating for the Children's Hospital in Saskatoon. Please vote if you can.

I was touched by Russ's speech about his dad at the Pink Warrior Classic. His dad suffered from mental illness, his charity helps people with mental illness in BC. Vote if you can!

Miikka and Conroy

2010-10-01T21:35:00.005-06:00

Craig Conroy still continues to be one the nice guys of the NHL. He signed autographs in Wednesday's game and smiled while he did. A little fellow about 5 years old, in fact 5 years old came down to the bench with 3 minutes left to try to get Conroy's autograph. My wife and I were both laughing at this little fellow, knew all the player's numbers and names, hated the Oilers and wanted Conroy's autograph real bad. He was not able to get Conroy's autograph. He got Miikka's stick instead. Miikka was the first star and skated back to the bench and handed his stick to the little boy. The little boy shook his head no, he wanted Conroy's autograph. Miikka really wasn't sure what to say so my wife grabbed the stick, Miikka thought she was grabbing it for herself. She was 1 foot away and looked at Miikka and said, "I'm giving it to him."
Miikka realized she was trying to help the boy out and gave it to her. She gave to the boy and he still didn't want it. His mom was there by then and took both the stick and young Flames fan home.
I also reached for Glencross's stick after the game and he banged the glass pointing at another young boy so I just handed it to the boy. I wasn't sure if Curtis was mad or just wanted me to know it was for the boy. It didn't bother me at all, Curtis has been great to me so no harm no foul.

Flames Islanders GAME DAY

2010-09-30T19:07:00.007-06:00

Third period seats were not that good, could not see anything. Just hanging out behind the bench. I woke up this morning and really had no idea what the score was!

Approx 400 pics in the gallery to be uploaded in the next day or two!

The Islanders were getting on the bus when I got them so I told my wife this would be one last shot for the Flames. We drove to the hotel to see a bus in front, of course. We walked over and Cory Sarich was chatting with someone, I motioned for a picture with him and he said in a minute. I walked over to Adam Pardy and he signed my puck, asked him how camp was and he said, "Good". Cory was finishing up and walked over to me. I said he had signed for me before so I wanted a picture. He agreed happily and I asked him how I can get into his local golf tournament next year. He told me how to do it and we discussed the details for about 5minutes. As White, Backlund, Sutter, Kronwall and a few others walked on the bus behind me. That hurt, but I was chatting with a great local guy, Stanley Cup Champ (that hurts a little) and that will benefit me next summer when I am in his tournament. My wife walked over to Glencross and chatted for a bit where he signed her jersey for her. I called Curtis's name and he walked over. This will be a white on yellow for the retro jersey. After chasing them all day with no sign, it was nice to get them finally.

TOP L-R Adam Pardy, Zenon Konopk, Rick DiPietro
Bottom L-R John Tavares, Nino Niederreiter, Ian White
My silver sharpie failed so some of the pucks did not sign well. I caught most of the Islanders at the hotel. In fact, I asked Konopk to redo the puck and he did making it thicker. Cool guy! The DiPietro puck was also signed at the hotel. I walked back in to look for JT and saw where the guys were waiting. When three players walked towards me, the third one was JT. When I got to Tavares, I asked very politely and he stopped. The silver was not working well so I would not risk it. I got it signed in black sharpie so it would look better. I do not regret it one bit. I caught him in the hotel walking and caught him off guard. He signed and we chatted for a bit, I just asked him questions.
The Niederreiter puck was signed after the Isls practice.
Conroy was the target at the game, I knew 110% he would sign it, he's just that type of guy. Our seats were on the other side but headed down behind the bench. After the warm-up Conroy skated off and signed for people. I draped my jersey over and he signed right away. I mentioned my petition worked we got him back for 1 more year and he laughed. I thanked him and took it back to the vehicle. Some of the other guys signed for people but I was not worried about them, got who I wanted. I paid $16 for this jersey on eBay.

What A Day, Ready?

2010-09-29T23:36:00.002-06:00

This will only be a teaser til tomorrow, Flames/Islanders in town tonight and it was a slow start to the day but ended with a bang! Here's the list, Nino Niederreiter, Rick DiPietro, Sarich, Glencross, Conroy, Zenon Konopka, Ian White, and oh yah, John Tavares. More to come tomorrow....

Leeman, Polonich, Steen, Valiquette, Fluery and Probert, yes Probert

2010-09-20T22:17:00.005-06:00

Tonight was the annual Battle of the Badges in town. Every year NHL'ers show up to raise money for the Saskatoon Crisis Nursery. It is not a upper level event if you catch my drift so the merchandise is usually lower end. The players usually vary, last year was the putz Ronning, Igor Kravchuk and Billy Smith. This year's group brought us one of my favorites Gary Leeman, local favorite Dennis Polonich, Winnipeg Jet Alumni Thomas Steen and Leaf Alumni, Jack Valiquette. I picked up my pucks to get signed but was a little ticked, I wanted Leeman on a Leafs jersey but I could not get the number kit in time. So the plan was a few pucks and some odds and ends from the merchandise booth. I always spend a few bucks there. I knew 1964-65 Stanley Cup Champion Gary Peters would be around so I had a Habs puck waiting. I caught him in the hallway and he showed my his new Cup ring for the Habs Alumni from the early Cup years. We chatted for a bit and he allowed me to wear his ring, cool. My finger did burn awhile after, get it? He was really nice and explained the parts of the ring. I spent some money at the booth and got some new and cool items. Look what I found, a signed Bob Probert mini stick with Theo Fluery, I had to have it! RIP BOBBY.....But who is the middle signature? Anyone? I have no idea....

I waited until he end of the first period to catch the guys and saw Polonich talking on his cell phone. I motioned with my hand for an autograph and he nodded yes, and pointed for me to go in the dressing room. I said I wanted him and said I would wait til he was done. When he was finished on the phone, the took me into the room. This was different, this was my 5th or 6th time there and the players always dressed with the other guys. This year all the NHL'ers were in one room. I walked in to see Steen and Leeman on one side and Polonich and Valiquette and the other. I mentioned that I felt like a kid with these guys and they just smiled. Steen signed an Oldtimer puck and signed it JETS, cool. Polonich signed my Wings puck and I walked over to Leeman and asked if he remembered skating with me last March with Probert. He smiled and asked if I had a Oldtimers jersey on. I knew he was honest when he said he did. I told him how said it was to hear of Bob passing away, Leeman was almost in tears and I apologized for bringing it up. He said it was fine, they were talking about it that morning too. He did attend Bob's funeral and told me about it, its no secret what the funeral was like but out if respect for Bob, I won't repeat what Leeman told me, sorry. I did tell Leeman about me telling people of Bob making sure every kid on the ice that day had an autograph, scanning the ice with a check list in his head. He smiled and patted my shoulder and said, "Thank you for doing that for Bob." I felt bad for bringing it up but wanted him to know what I thought of Bob, a great person, no question. Jack introduced himself to me and I responded with my name and he asked if I had played with Gary. I laughed and said no, we just met while skating before the Oldtimer game in February, to hear Gary overhear the conversation and explained how he 'knew' me, the skate the the kids and big kids. We chuckled about that one. I thanked the guys and headed out. Man, I could sit and yap with Leeman for hours, great guys. Polonich actually gave me a program to get signed but I said I had some pucks. Great guy too.

John Daly Grip it and Rip it Breakfast

2010-09-17T08:00:00.004-06:00

It was an early day yesterday but I knew it would be worth it. John was a the Telus Skins Game in Banff 5 years ago so I was able to get him on his book and a promo photo. I did have to run beside him so this was more of a laid back chance. Photos in my gallery section! He signed for every single person there, but again it was quick. It appeared that he would not take pictures with people, it felt like he said "I will sign as much as you want but then I have to go." Oh well, can never complain. I was second in line because I knew exactly how they would do the signing, but I paid $20 for a picture too so I held it out later, and he signed it. I looked in my bag and saw the Ray Bourque golf ball from last year, so I held it out and he signed that too. The ball turned out better than I thought, the Open flag bleed but its still a Major Champion winner on the course flag. 3 Videos on John hitting and speaking are in on my Youtube Channel. Check it out!

Johnny Bower and Gordie

2010-09-11T13:03:00.003-06:00

I promised a few more of the Bower stories so here's one more. Bower made no bones about being friends with Gordie Howe. He told this interesting story about playing Detroit. When Bower had to move behind the net to play the puck, Gordie would never touch him. So this played to Bower's advantage a little. When Gordie was heading behind the net, Bower knew he had a few more seconds without getting his head taken off. He stressed, Gordie would put the puck in the net 1000 times before he'd hit Bower. As well, he said he'd seen Gordie before the event in Aug and he was not doing very well. Anyway, "Terrible Ted" Lindsay would take his head off every chance he would get, no question...

Brayden Schenn Heroes and Prospects Auto Card

2010-09-11T10:35:00.003-06:00

Oh yah another one. I read Brayden hurt his knee this week and was flown to LA to see Kings doctors. Luke told me Brayden was in LA for most of the summer training so hope he heals quick!

Colby Armstrong Game Used Pens Stick

2010-09-03T22:30:00.001-06:00

Had to get this one, just had to. Bought from the Pens with LOA. Cracked yes, but I firmly believe I can get it signed later for my collection. Pics this weekend!

Bower and Schenn?

2010-09-02T19:26:00.003-06:00

Jersey Updates #3, Plus Schenn and Clark

2010-08-26T23:03:00.005-06:00

Hmm, now have two of these, my wife said this one can hang in the 'Man Cave' downstairs.

Finally got this one stitched, does look better.

Rare and kind of cool, Dennis Hull Team Canada 1972 Jersey

Finally finished this one, cool...

Clarky, bought from local hobby shop.

Just had to have this, Frameworth auction, 16x20. Will go with one of the jersey when it gets framed.

Remember Autograph Karma? Colby Armstrong IP

2010-08-25T18:51:00.009-06:00

MORE IMAGES IN MY IMAGE GALLERY

Our town's TSN Kraft Day was this afternoon. Dan O Toole and Jay Onrait taped a live broadcast of Sports Centre during the 2010 Kraft Celebration Tour at our local regional park. People voted and our pool won a $25,000 upgrade from Kraft and TSN taped Sports Centre from the park. There were at least 1000 people at the park to take in the presentation of the cheque along with numerous activities for kids. The park is about 1 block from our house so we walked down and noticed the TSN tent. Man, I have the coolest wife, she looks over and says, "Look, there's Colby."

Sure enough, Colby Armstrong was standing at the tent. As I panned the tent, Riley Armstrong, Logan and Shay Stephenson (they're from here and their dad is our mayor Bob Stephenson (7 games with the Hartford Whalers in 1979), Logan Pyett and a few others I did not recognize. I walked over to Colby and said, "Hi".

Colby recognized me right away and asked what I was doing here. He asked if I was from here and I said I actually teach in town. I told him I wanted to get him on a Leafs jersey but did not have a #20 but had a white #9. He laughed as I said I would be right back, I ran up the hill, about a 6* incline for 50 meters and grabbed my #9. I made my way back down and Colby signed it for me. I asked him to personalize it as usual, just adds to it I think. I missed him on a Leafs jersey in July but got him on his new #9.
The broadcast began and the Onreit and O Toole involved the crowd for most of the show. I had a hunch Colby might come for this but forgot. He was at our local Folkfest last weekend and Colby actually said he played with junior with Shay Stephenson so the families are good friends. He said Bob had asked him to come down and have some fun, sign some autographs and catch up with some old friends. I chatted with Colby about the Leafs, Toronto and steak. Follow him on Twitter, 'armdog'
One of the best, people, one of the best...Yikes, GO LEAFS GO!

Johnny Bower and George Armstrong Part 1

2010-08-16T13:22:00.006-06:00

Johnny told this one and we all had a good laugh. He said he and George Armstrong attended a junior game to do some scouting for Leafs. Bower said Armstrong did not like signing autographs but would if asked. They were watching the game one night and a small boy approached both and asked Armstrong for an autograph on a piece of paper. Armstrong did so and the boy asked for his jacket to be signed. He did so again but was a little upset. The boy came back again and asked Armstrong to sign his butt, yes his butt. He pulled down his pants and Armstrong autographed the boy's butt. Armstrong told Bower it was time to leave now and as the were heading out, Bower noticed the autograph, Armstrong signed it, 'Johnny Bower'.

Johnny Bower and the Rocket

2010-08-14T21:44:00.003-06:00

Johnny Bower told this one about The Rocket.
He was with the New York Rangers when this happened. He commented that the fans in New York were nasty and would throw anything that was not nailed down at the players. The night the Rangers were playing the Habs, Rocket scored the first goal. Rocket looked at Johnny and said, "Hey Bower, thank you for #1."
Now, remember, Mr. Bower was telling this story and was repeating it with a French accent. Rocket scored the second goal of the game and sure enough skated by Bower and said, "Hey Bower, thank you for #2." Bower said at this time, he was a little mad at the situation. He yelled back at Rocket, "Hey Richard, what are you going to say next?"
Rocket laughed and said, "Thank you for #3, of course."
Bower said within a few minutes, Rocket raced in and Bower said he had the post hugged tight, shifted his weight just a little and Rocket got his third goal of the night. Bower said there was not very much to see, let alone get a puck through and Rocket did just that. The Ranger fans started throwing garbage on the ice and Rocket skated by Bower and said...You guessed it, Rocket said. "Hey Bower, thank you for #3!"

Johnny Bower and Russ Courtnall Stories

2010-08-13T18:50:00.006-06:00

The Pink Warrior Classic had a different method of delivering the speakers for the night. Kelly Gatzke, the PWC Founder, facilitated the first series of questions then the audience asked some. A few stories were really funny so as always, I recorded some and will retell some. I will post one everyday for the next five days.

The first one that comes to mind was a story Courtnall told. In his fist year or two as the Hound Line, Wendel Clark came to him before a game in Detroit. Wendel said, "If something happens and I'm not there in 3 secs, you're on your own."
So the faceoff was at center ice and Wendel was against Bob Probert, Leeman grabbed someone, and Courtnall with a rookie named Basil McRae. Courtnall said Wendel was really hammering Probert and Mcrae had a chock hold on Courtnall. He said he was turning purple and could not breathe. He heard Clark yell at McRae as he was punching Probert, "Basil, if you don't let him go, I'm going to come over there next!"
Courtnall said McRae threw his hands up in the air instantly and wanted no part of Clark. He added when Wendel had a healthy back, he was by far one of the toughest ever.

Johnny Bower and Russ Courtnall

2010-08-10T23:33:00.005-06:00

Signed at the Pink Warrior Classic in Spiritwood, Saskatchewan. This a incredible fundraiser for breast cancer awareness operated by a remarkable couple.

Luke Schenn Day II

2010-08-03T22:46:00.001-06:00

I was really surprised to chat with Luke and realize he is just like Brayden. I would say Luke is a little more reserved. He gets a bad rap in the media, he is a great guy and will chat with fans, take pictures and sign autographs.

2009-2010 BAP

I really like the ITG card, very cool!

2009-10 BAP Pack Breaks

2010-07-30T10:43:00.004-06:00

We headed up to the city today so I stopped in my favorite hobby shop to check out anything new on the market. I cured myself of the UD Ultimate so no need to go there. I decided to crack some 2009-10 BAP, pulled some neat cards, especially the triple auto from Myers and Hedman. Some of my favorite players too, love the Hartnell and Aucoin cards. I opened 4 packs at what I thought was $14 a pack and then thought about another, pulling a double hit, Couture patch and Raymond auto. The till was rang up to find out the packs went up to $18 a pck. Yikes, but better stuff than before. The kicker in my mind was a better card pulled from the $18 pack than the $114 pack. Hmmm...

Colby Armstrong

2010-07-29T09:22:00.005-06:00

How can you not love this guy, local guy, hard working and just a blast to chat with. He is not a friend of mine by any means but this is how Colby treats his fans. My wife asked me what we were chatting about, I haven't a clue, I was chatting with Colby Armstrong! I have met both Schenn and Armstrong now and there is a buzz about Toronto this year. I wish the boys a great season!

Upper Deck Ultimate Collection Box Break

2010-07-28T10:48:00.001-06:00

I was curious about this product so decided to try a box/pack out. I received it today and cracked it open, the Toews isn't bad but yikes for the price, not great stuff.

07/35
Doesn't the second patch appear to be the 'E' in his name.
What do you think?

105/299

307/399

Schenn, Armstrong, Regehr and Babs

2010-07-19T17:24:00.004-06:00

Signed by James Wright, Riley Armstrong, Robyn Regher, Byron Bitz and Quintin Laing

Agenda for the Breakfast With Babs

These photos were left on the table for everyone. Notice the people in the pics, Bowman, Crosby, Babcock, cool eh? We got them signed right after the breakfast, check back later for Mr. Bowman's Cup Ring.

Luke Schenn Signed #2 Leafs Semi Pro Jersey

Top Right to Left: Colby Armstrong-Leafs, Luke Schenn/Colby Armstrong (how cool is that)-Leafs, Mike Babcock-Olympic Puck, Robyn Regher-Flames

Bottom Right to Left: Kenn Holland/Mike Babcock-Wings, Mike Babcock-Mike Babcock Day Puck, Scotty Bowman-Wings Puck, Kelly Chase-Blank Schenn and Armstrong Addition to Leafs Jersey

Jon Montgomery Signed 'Get 'Er Done' T-Shirt

Boy What a Day, Check It Out...

2010-07-17T17:41:00.007-06:00

This is typed on my blackberry so spelling errors and typos will be noticeable. Fixed when I get back home Monday along with the loot pics.

Mike Babcock Day was a formal day spent to honor Mike for his accomplishments of being part of the Triple Gold Club;
Stanley Cup, World Junior Gold and Olympic Gold. More importantly, to raise money for a children's hospital in our city. The closest is in Calgary, 6 hours away. This has been a passion of many, including dozens of local volunteers and many high profile athletes, including Mike Weir.
It was an early start today, 5:30am but boy worth it. It was an hour drive to Saskatoon and knew the day would be long but exciting. We pulled up to the building and headed inside. There did not appear to be many people there but we checked in and were kind of greeted by Robyn Regher. We handed our tickets in and right beside us was Regher. I never let these chances slip away, I said, "Hi Robyn.". He looked at me and smiled, said "Hi, how are good you?". We exchanged 'how are yous' and headed to our table. This appeared like a great day, Mike Babcock was about 10 ft to my left, Scotty Bowman walked by, Todd Mclellan 3 table over. Hmm, interesting... We visited people at our table for a few minutes but my head was elsewhere. I grabbed my Flames puck and headed over to where Regher was chatting with someone. I asked how his little man was. Two years ago at the Valley Regional Park fundraiser his wife was pregnant. This engaged him in a conversation for a few minutes. He was pulled away so he signed my puck and I made my way to the table. Seconds later, in walks Luke Schenn, Colby and Riley Armstrong and someone I really had no idea who it was. Yikes, it was James Wright of the Tampa Bay Lightning. The formal part of the program began. St. Louis Blues alumni, Kelly Chase was the Master of Ceremonies so we knew there would be humor. The breakfast was the standard items; fruit, eggs, ham, bacon, sausage and other yummy things. I laughed when I noticed Schenn's plate, proper portions, lots of fruit and no croissants or nasty fatty foods. Pretty much the same plate as mine, good enough for Schenn, good enough for me. They introduced more players in the crowd, Curtis Leschyshyn and a few others. They had a players/coaches Q and A with Babcock, Bowman, Mclellan, Armstrong and Regher. Chase led the Q&A with funny quirk about the members of the panel. Except Bowman, people stood when he was announced and he was respected throughout the room. Ever wanted to know what Babcock said to Team Cananda before the overtime? Check back Monday night, my Youtube channel will have it.
I noticed Schenn looking bored so I headed over to ask him if he would sign my Schenn jersey. I asked him to personalize it, remembering to spell my name for him. Bingo, jersey signed with a 'All the Best'. The coaches were all sitting around visiting so we headed over to the main table, Bowman and Babcock. I tapped Bowman on the shoulder and asked for an autograph and he signed my Wings puck. I knew my wife wanted to get Babcock on a Vancouver Olympics 2010 puck. Now this is funny, my wife had a SILVER sharpie for him to sign and he wouldn't touch it when she asked him to sign her puck. He said, "What, don't you want me to sign it in GOLD" He laughed and she got it right away and replied, "Oh sure, GOLD please."
He admired the puck and said he had never seen one like that before. Sorry US readers...We got pics with both guys and thanked them.
Colby Armstrong was hanging around the auction items and I approached him to sign a Leafs puck. Colby is one of the coolest players you will ever meet. I congratulated him on the new contract and asked him a few questions. We chatted for about 5mins and had some laughs. I saw a flash on my right and knew my wife would be taking pics of us chatting. Great guy and new daddy!
My wife looked at the table and noticed folded photos of Babcock. She grabbed a few from our table and noticed a few were signed. There were photos of Babs and Crosby and Babs and Bowman. They had a quick autograph session with both Babs and Bowman so I got another Wings puck signed along with the one photo of Crosby and Babs. I asked him if he was giving him s*#t and he laughed and said something like he told him to skate only back to the red line. My wife got Bowman on the dual photo already signed by Babs. She got a real good pic of Bowman's Wings Cup ring, pic to follow Monday.
Ken Holland was chatting with someone and I wanted him on the Babcock Wings puck. He was happy to sign it. Very short man but a great GM. He almost confirmed Modano 1 year too. You heard it here first!
Luke Schenn was walking out and we stopped him to get him on a Leafs puck. He smiled,commenting on it being a Leafs puck and signed it. I asked him how his summer was going and he said he was ready to "get back at 'er". We both got pics with him and thanked him. I noticed Armstrong heading our way and she got him on the Schenn puck. Think that's rare? The final piece of the puzzle was Kelly Chase on a blank puck, I said I could not get a Blues puck. He laughed and said they were all sold out eh? He let me try on his Peoria Championship ring, cool but not as shiny as Bowman's ring. Both pics Monday. To top the morning off, I won a Jon Montgomery signed t-shirt for 40 bucks, cool... Well that was just from 8:00 to 10:30 this morning. The skate and autograph session with the gang later!

Need Some Community Help....

2010-07-15T10:45:00.002-06:00

Our little town is in a fight for a $25000 upgrade for our local pool. This is a TSN contest where TSN will broadcast from our town if we win. Tie in hockey here, TSN is our Canadian sports leader station and the money would be used for our pool. Please vote for us!
http://kraftcelebrationtour.tsn.ca/top20/1691#matchup

For Sale....

2010-07-15T00:20:00.004-06:00

Just kidding, sorry...Thought it was funny....

More Jersey Updates

2010-07-15T00:10:00.002-06:00

These are now finally sewn!

2009-2010 Be A Player Pack Breaks

2010-07-14T21:39:00.001-06:00

Better Breaks this time, a few Olympians and a few Cup Champs!

Jordan Hendry Letterman Patch

2010-07-13T20:02:00.001-06:00

2008-09 Upper Deck Black Letterman Patch

Luke Schenn Rookie Threads

2010-07-12T12:21:00.003-06:00

I hope to get him on another Leafs jersey this weekend.

2008-2009 Upper Deck Rookie
Playmakers #58/100
I like this swatch, nice and large.

Brayden Schenn Heroes and Prospects Auto Card

2010-07-08T13:54:00.003-06:00

2009-10 Brayden Schenn In the Game
Heroes and Prospects

RIP Bob Probert

2010-07-06T19:11:00.005-06:00

I was very saddened to hear Bob Probert passed away on the weekend. He was feared throughout the NHL and it was no secret he had his demons. I have met Bob a two occasions but really was impressed during our last meeting in February. Bob came out on the ice to skate with people before the Oldtimers game along with Gary Leeman and Jimmy Mann. He appeared rough, but very nice to the kids and others. I asked Gary to show my wife how to skate backwards and he called Probert over to show her how to do it with picks. He checked her picks and then Probert and Leeman took about 1 lap showing her the proper technique. A few things came to mind even when we met Probert, he made sure every person on the ice had an autograph, scanning the ice almost doing a checklist in his head of who got something signed. He was admiring a few autographs on black helmets and gloves with silver sharpies. Bob asked me to use my silver sharpie and gave it back to me after, what was I going to do argue? He signed a Red Wings puck for me and got a picture with him, then after, I asked him if we could get silly, and he knew what I wanted. So to the Probert family, he was a heck of a nice person and our sincerest sympathy to your family.

What A Better Way To Spend Canada Day-Hendry and the Cup

2010-07-02T00:41:00.008-06:00

We drive over to Nokomis where Jordan Hendry calls home today, July 1 or Canada Day. It is approximately 1.5 hours over some not so nice roads. The trip there was OK, got to town about 5:00 found the rink and walked in to see Jordan signing autographs already. Not many people were there by then so it was a 2 minute wait. They were raising money for the local senior team so $5 for a 5x7 and $10 for a 8x10. Not a bad deal, goes to a great cause. So I got my number and stick blade out, my wife had 2 blank pucks and I bought a 8x10 for him to sign. Got everything signed inside of 5 minutes. I asked him to personalize the number and he did making sure he spelled my name right, thanks Jordan (see Tavares and Schenn jerseys) But no Stanley Cup yet, rats...We ended up getting something to eat and walked around to check out the silent auction items, lots of Hendry signed stuff, jersey, hat, name plate but the big ticket items were the team signed stick, jersey and framed Toews jersey.We came back to the rink closer to 6:00 the start time for the program. Jordan's uncle, announced the Cup would be there around 7:30pm so we waited. I have seen the Cup many times in the last few years but, never leave a concert before the closing band comes on I guess. I ended up getting a 5x7 signed and asked Jordan a few more questions. We had a plan to get back into line and just let people go ahead so when the Cup gets there, we would be close. At about 7:30, Jordan was called outside so we knew it was close. Jordan returned holding the Cup above his head, a really neat image, he looked very proud. We waited and got our picture with the Stanley Cup and Jordan, which was rare and cool, Kunitz, Babcock never did that, we were just able to take the picture. The ride home was awful, we have had above average rain and one part of the road we needed to cross was washed out two weeks ago and by now, is probably underwater, we were lucky to get home.

Stanley Cup-Jordan Hendry Tomorrow

2010-06-30T17:24:00.002-06:00

Got to love this provice, tomorrow is Canada Day and the Stanley Cup will be with Jordan Hendry in Nokomis, Sask. That's a short 1 1/2 hour drive. Check back tomorrow!

Drew Doughty IP

2010-06-26T22:53:00.007-06:00

We headed up to the city today to try to get Drew Doughty on a few more projects. I had two #8's, one being from the Stoll kit I forgot on Thursday and the Team Canada #8, plus two pucks. I double checked with Boston Pizza and they confirmed he would be there at 1:00 today. I needed the pucks still so I went to my favorite hobby store and found out Doughty was at a local doughnut shop waiting for 1:00. There were 3 places to check out, nothing panned out, oh well...Doughty came in about 12:30 sat down for some lunch and there were about 25 people waiting. He quickly ate and within 3mins or so, we were next in line. My wife and I both teach so we asked fro some extra cards to give to our kids and they were happy to give up 5 and possibly more but we would have to wait. Never waited...We both congratulated Drew on the Gold medal win and he was very humble in his response, we knew full well he had heard that many times since. I asked for the Team Canada #8 to be personalized and the marker bled a little. He stopped after my name and asked the coordinator for something different, they had nothing. So I pulled out my new sharpie for the occasion and Drew signed the #8 with the 2010 Gold on it. I asked if he wanted to keep the sharpie and he quickly said yes. I got the Kings puck signed too along with a picture with a Olympic Gold Medalist. My wife got a Canada puck and Kings jersey signed, she had met Doughty before the the whole Olympic thing made it pretty cool for both of us. She got her picture with him and he used my silver sharpie for the puck and jersey for my wife, I asked him if he wanted to keep that one too and he said, "If you don't mind."

Yah, I lent Drew Doughty two sharpies for the day. I think I can start every sentence for the next 2 weeks with that one. Drew showed up today for the people that missed him on Thursday so he gets my vote for a class act and great person. Thanks Drew!

Hartnell, Stoll, Schenn, Scehnn, Dawes, Pisani, Purcell, Brookbank, and Schultz All In Person

2010-06-24T21:24:00.012-06:00

I was supper psyched to get a chance to get the other Schenn brother tonight, they both walked over and Brayden actually looked at me and said, "Hi". I think I have chatted with him now, he recognizes me. Anyway, the Schenn brothers were the second at the table, so I made sure I asked Luke to personalize the Leafs jersey, you'll see...And to get both Brayden and Luke on a Team Canada puck plus a picture with both would be rare and cool.

Have a look at the signature for Schenn, I made sure I asked him to personalize it and I got the full Luke Schenn, oh yah!

I asked Brayden to sign my Kings jersey and this, which will be a World Junior Team Canada Jersey, when I can get to it.
I forgot my Stoll number kit, almost turned around to drive 50 mins to get it but choose a different route. I got a #1 to get Jarret to sign, totally forgot about it Jarret signed my Kings jersey but growl....When we got there there was a bout 30 people in line, I was a little miffed but oh well...I walked inside to use the washroom and when I walked out I noticed someone standing off to the side of Boston Pizza. People were line up right in front of Nigel Dawes of my Calgary Flames. I walked over and said I knew who he was and asked how he was. We chatted for about 5mins about my beloved Flames, shared some tears, no kidding. But walked back to the line and had a large grin on my face. I told my wife who I met and she just rolled her eyes. She loves the Flames too but the chances I get just make her sigh. I ended up with a Hartnell jersey, Team Canada jersey, and the Kings jersey but will post the pics tomorrow.

My silver sharpie dried up and it was raining like a flood so some signed in my other silver and some just signed in black, that's Brookbank (Ducks), Schultz (Canada), Purcell (Lightning), Hartnell (Flyers), Pisani (Oilers), Brayden Schenn (Canada) and Dawes (Flames).

Here's the Plan....

2010-06-20T20:28:00.003-06:00

I have a away LA Kings jersey, Philadelphia Flyers Home jersey (2003), 2 Team Canada Home jerseys, and a Toronto Maple Leafs Home jersey for Thursdays session. Jerseys are for Stoll, Hartnell, Doughty and Schenn and Schenn. Should be fun! Doughty will be coming from the Awards Show in Las Vegas so here's hoping he will make it for Thursday's BP session.

Wayne Gretzky Jersey Card

2010-06-14T21:30:00.006-06:00

2005-06 Upper Deck Artifacts

Treasured Swatches
#118/225

Cool. Schenn, Schenn, Stoll and Hartnell

2010-06-11T22:50:00.004-06:00

Finally, the other Schenn! This year's Jarret Stoll's Charity Golf tournament is bringing in some different people. Drew Doughty, Fernando Pisani, Sheldon Brookbank, Scott Hartnell, and Jarret himself will be returning this year with; Brayden Schenn (no biggie, got him lots), Wayne Simmonds, Teddy Purcell, Nigel Dawes (cool!), and Luke Schenn!

Hawks Win, Hmm....

2010-06-09T22:15:00.002-06:00

I will repeat myself that I really did not care who won the Stanley Cup, because my Flames were not part of the playoffs this year. But I was hoping for the Flyers because of Scott Hartnell, a local guy who should be here in town in two weeks for the Jarret Stoll Golf Classic. So the Chicago Black Hawks have won and the Cup will be in Saskatchewan 2 x's this summer, Sopel from Saskatoon and Hendry from Nokomis. That will be 4 x's in 3 years for me to get my grubby little hands on Lord Stanley's Grail!

Taylor Hall Jersey Card

2010-06-08T20:53:00.008-06:00

2009-2010 ITG Silver
Heroes and Prospects