HearnNation67

McPine is back. After nearly 3 weeks of media silence, young goaltender Woody McPine has suddenly reappeared to the public eye shortly after the VHLM season began. Fans, players, and owners alike had all been wondering what caused his online disappearance, and we were lucky to sit him down for a few questions.
 
Q: Woody, what was the reason for your prolonged absence?
W: Well, after the disappointing end to our season I decided to take a week to reflect. I was moving into a new apartment and wasn't going to have internet for about a week so I decided to take time to be alone and away from the crowds for a bit. But there was a mixup with the local internet company and I just went with it.
 
Q: There were rumours you were hurt, is there any truth to them?
W: Haha, no. I'm as healthy as can be and ready to take on the league.
 
Q: Going back to the end of last season, you guys were knocked out fairly quickly by San Diego. Can I get your thoughts on that?
W: I wasn't at my best that series. It felt like I cracked under the pressure of the playoffs, which was why I wanted to take some time away and try to get stronger mentally.
 
Q: Anything in particular you did in order to get your mind off the game?
W: I started meditating in the mornings and at night. During the day I wandered around and explored my new neighbourhood. Its quite peaceful here. Lots of dogs and everyone is friendly.
 
Q: Did anyone recognize you and question why you hadn't been heard from?
W: No, but maybe if I had worn my mask!
 
Q: How do you feel about yours and the Storm's start to season 72?
W: 3-1 is a great start! We're clicking as a team, I still have some rust to shake off though.
 
Q: Were you disappointed that you didn't make the VHL and have the chance to show your stuff for Prague?
W: No, I feel like I still have some work to do on my game before I make the big league. But that being said, if they do call me up I won't be upset haha.
 
Q: You guys have quite a few new teammates this year, how does that feel and what do you think they bring to the table that will help the Storm over the hump?
W: They all bring something different. Extra character into the locker, scoring prowess, extra defense. Lots of potential from our rookie class. There's a couple former San Diego players as well, I might have to pick their brains on how to win a playoff series. All in all, GM @Rayzor_7  has done a great job this offseason.
 
Q: How does it feel to be back in the locker room?
W: Its great. As much as I needed time away, its great to be back with everyone.
 
Q: Well Woody, thanks for sitting down with us and good luck on the upcoming season.
W: Thank you and thanks so much for having me, it was my pleasure.
 
Word count:529

McPine is back. After nearly 3 weeks of media silence, young goaltender Woody McPine has suddenly reappeared to the public eye shortly after the VHLM season began. Fans, players, and owners alike had all been wondering what caused his online disappearance, and we were lucky to sit him down for a few questions.
 
Q: Woody, what was the reason for your prolonged absence?
W: Well, after the disappointing end to our season I decided to take a week to reflect. I was moving into a new apartment and wasn't going to have internet for about a week so I decided to take time to be alone and away from the crowds for a bit. But there was a mixup with the local internet company and I just went with it.
 
Q: There were rumours you were hurt, is there any truth to them?
W: Haha, no. I'm as healthy as can be and ready to take on the league.
 
Q: Going back to the end of last season, you guys were knocked out fairly quickly by San Diego. Can I get your thoughts on that?
W: I wasn't at my best that series. It felt like I cracked under the pressure of the playoffs, which was why I wanted to take some time away and try to get stronger mentally.
 
Q: Anything in particular you did in order to get your mind off the game?
W: I started meditating in the mornings and at night. During the day I wandered around and explored my new neighbourhood. Its quite peaceful here. Lots of dogs and everyone is friendly.
 
Q: Did anyone recognize you and question why you hadn't been heard from?
W: No, but maybe if I had worn my mask!
 
Q: How do you feel about yours and the Storm's start to season 72?
W: 3-1 is a great start! We're clicking as a team, I still have some rust to shake off though.
 
Q: Were you disappointed that you didn't make the VHL and have the chance to show your stuff for Prague?
W: No, I feel like I still have some work to do on my game before I make the big league. But that being said, if they do call me up I won't be upset haha.
 
Q: You guys have quite a few new teammates this year, how does that feel and what do you think they bring to the table that will help the Storm over the hump?
W: They all bring something different. Extra character into the locker, scoring prowess, extra defense. Lots of potential from our rookie class. There's a couple former San Diego players as well, I might have to pick their brains on how to win a playoff series. All in all, GM @Rayzor_7  has done a great job this offseason.
 
Q: How does it feel to be back in the locker room?
W: Its great. As much as I needed time away, its great to be back with everyone.
 
Q: Well Woody, thanks for sitting down with us and good luck on the upcoming season.
W: Thank you and thanks so much for having me, it was my pleasure.
 
Word count:529

1. Excited to see who the next superstars I'll be playing with. I'll be catching up.
2. I think we have a great shot at the title, it'll be tough but I think we can do it.
4. I like a good mix of both.
5. Never talk again
6. It wasn't even on my radar until I was a teenager.
7. Working on the family tree farm.

Rona Szn Baby
 
            Hello hockey fans, quick update from the camp of Woody McPine regarding the Covid-19 pandemic. Woody would like all the fans, players, managers, and anybody else reading this, that he is having no symptoms of the coronavirus. He is still taking precautions, though, staying isolated at his family tree farm for as long as possible before the season starts. He urges everyone to be careful, safe, healthy, and listen to what the experts are saying. They’re experts for a reason. Woody urges everybody to stay home as much as possible.
            That being said, Woody is very excited to get back on the ice with his new team, the Minnesota Storm. He’s being doing a lot of work in the offseason to prepare for his second year in the VHLM, hoping to have a better year and bring home a championship. He has installed some synthetic ice in his parents’ yard and got his family to shoot pucks at him to keep him in game shape, as well as communicating with professional trainers to come up with a good, at home, fitness routine. He believes he’s in the best shape of his life and hopes that will translate to the new season.
            Woody would like to extend a huge thank you to diamond_ace of the Prague Phantoms and to Rayzor_7 from the Storm for seeing the potential in his game and drafting him. He was pleasantly surprised at his position in the draft and is working hard to make sure he isn’t a bust. He’s looking forward to meeting the teams and knocking back a few waters with the boys (he is still 17 after all). Everyone he’s been chatting with so far seem very friendly and he feels they’ll all have the good chemistry needed, along with the skill, to make a run for the cup.
            Looking ahead to the next season, Woody fully expects to stay in Minnesota (barring a trade or injury in Prague), and can’t wait to help the team with their championship defense and run it back for another ‘ship (his first of course). He’s looking to build on that experience in order to help out the Phantoms as soon as possible, potentially S72 as Brick Wahl is retiring, but won’t be disappointed at all if he stays with the Storm for another year to help build his game to the elite level he expects from himself.
After the success he had in high school, Woody is looking to regain that feeling as a pro and knows that the key to success is hard work and teamwork. He demonstrated some of that teamwork last year with Las Vegas, leading all VHLM goalies with 8 assists in only 33 games. What a beauty, perhaps he should consider a position change if the whole stopping pucks thing doesn’t work out.
I’ll end off with a direct quote from the man himself. “Looking forward to getting back at it with the boys, knocking out a few Ws, lifting that trophy over our heads. See everyone on the ice in a couple days!”
 
Word count:516

The VHLM playoffs are in full swing and things aren't looking great for Woody McPine and the Minnesota Storm. The squad has won only 1 of the first 4 games against the San Diego Marlins, putting them on the brink of elimination early. While there's still time to turn it around, it's got to be a disappointing start for a team that finish the regular season winning 16 of their last 17 games. Much of the blame can be placed on McPine who seems to have cracked under the playoff pressure. While his numbers are better than his first round exit with Vegas last post season, they are still not up to par with what he showed he could do in the regular season on world juniors. McPine and the Storm look to rebound and save their season in game 5 tomorrow, and kick start their run to the cup.

Woody McPine and the Minnesota Storm finished the VHLM regular season on fire, winning 16 games in a row before losing their last game to Yukon in a battle for 2nd place. We managed to get the young goaltender to sit down for an interview before the playoffs.
 
Question: You guys seemed unstoppable during that last stretch of the season, how will that help you in the playoffs?
Woody: We gained a lot of confidence during those games. We know we can beat any team that we face.
 
Q: You started the season a little rough, what turned it around for you?
W: I wasn't playing great, that's for sure. But I put the axe to the oak as they say, and worked my ass off to get to where the team needed me to be. After that, we all clicked and it was smooth sailing.
 
Q: Now that your first full regular season is in the books, what are you most proud of?
W: That's a tough one but I'd have to say helping the team into the playoffs or representing my country at the world juniors.
 
Q: Speaking of the juniors, can you tell us a bit about what that was like?
W: Oh it was amazing. We had a great team. Didn't get the result we wanted, but still managed to silence the doubters and win a nice bronze.
 
Q: You were also named the top goalie in the tournament. What does that mean to you?
W: It's a huge honor, but I couldn't have done it without my teammates.
 
Q: Tell us about the prize you gave the Americans.
W: (Laughs) Well after we beat them, I remember looking over at them while we were celebrating and they all looked so sad and I wanted to do something to cheer them up.
 
Q: Do you think it worked?
W: My Storm teammates, Robin Winter and Gavin Harris, had a good laugh about it so I hope the rest of the team did as well.
 
Q: Back to the VHLM. You finished with a record of 49-13-1, with 4 shutouts, a GAA of 2.9, and save % of 0.877. Those are much better numbers than your time with Vegas. What made the difference?
W: A lot of things really. Lots of practice is the main thing, as well as upping my off season training. Another big thing was the Vegas was in a rebuilding year so that, combined with my inexperience meant that there would be a lot of tough games.
 
Q: Both the Storm and Vegas made the playoffs, do you think you'll end up playing each other?
W: I hope so, it'd be fun to have a go at them.
 
Q: You guys have San Diego in the first round, any thoughts on that?
W: It should be a good series, they're a tough team.
 
Q: Woody, thanks for sitting down with us and best of luck in the post season.
W: Thank you, it was my pleasure.

Welcome back to Future Watch, where we analyse the prospect pools of each VHL team! Last week, we covered the North American Conference. This week, we shift our focus to the European Conference. Without further ado, let’s get to it.
 

 

MALMO NIGHTHAWKS | 6th in EU | 9th Overall
Top Prospect: Gary Neal - S71 2nd Round (21)
 
Unlike North America, every European team has more than one significant prospect. Even the group I have ranked as the weakest in the conference still has three active prospects with VHL upside, which you can never complain about. Malmo’s group is headlined by Gary Neal, a winger who put up an impressive 116 points for Saskatoon this season. Although he does have the occasional hiccup, he earns around 10 TPE most weeks. His 191 TPE suggests that there’s still some work needed to be VHL ready, but he is definitely on track to being a solid player for the Nighthawks. 
 
After tearing up the VHLM in Ottawa this season, Adam Syreck also projects to be a good player for Malmo. His 181 points were second in the league, behind only his teammate, Richard Penisson. Syreck has had some issues with activity lately, but hopefully, with two straight weeks of 7 TPE, he has put those days behind him. Another prospect who has recently put their inactivity behind them is Domonique Williams, acquired this season through trade with Riga. Williams had previously signed with the Reign as an undrafted prospect and immediately went from inactive to a potential VHL player. While his TPE earning has seen some peaks and valleys recently, I think that overall he’s still a pretty exciting prospect.
 

 

PRAGUE PHANTOMS | 5th in EU | 8th Overall
Top Prospect: Woody McPine - S71 3rd Round (35)
 
Like Seattle, Prague didn’t really have anything before the S71 Draft. But they left that draft with two players that would soon prove to be the best possible picks at their respective slots. Goaltender Woody McPine heard his name called in the third round and immediately went to work. His progression has seen him go from a mediocre prospect who would take a few seasons to be ready for the big league, to a potential VHL starter. His TPE earning has been tremendous for quite a while now, and he could find himself as Prague’s backup as soon as next season, with Wahl retiring this offseason. The team’s other pick in the S71 Draft was Jack John, who is steadily earning 6 TPE every week and adding onto an extremely balanced build. His scoring does stand out though, easily being his most prevalent asset. John will take some time to develop but could end up a Phantom if he stays consistent over time.
 

 

MOSCOW MENACE | 4th in EU | 7th Overall
Top Prospect: Aleelee Kiak - S70 2nd Round (15)
 
The reigning champions of the VHL, the Moscow Menace, currently have a great team. But their recent success hasn’t had a negative effect on their prospect pool, which is by no means shallow. Up front they have Aleelee Kiak, who is already VHL ready with 281 TPE. The winger’s season included an outstanding 120 points and 59 goals, which were among the league’s elite. Kiak should be a pretty nice piece for the club moving forward.
 
With back to back picks in the S71 Draft, Moscow selected two defensemen by the names of Gavin Harris and Jason Goeson. The former of the two has struggled with inconsistency lately but displayed a lot of promise not too long ago. He put up a solid 49 points this season, as well as some good defensive numbers. He will need at least one more season of development, but if Harris can get back to the consistency he had before, he could be a vital part of that blueline. Moving on, we have Goeson, who has had an interesting season. Despite showing plenty of growth in his game, his stats took a bit of a dip in comparison to the season prior. In the long run, Goeson could definitely end up as the best of the bunch if he remains on his current trajectory, in which he earns 10-12 TPE a week.
 

 

RIGA REIGN | 3rd in EU | 5th Overall
Top Prospect: Pengu - S71 1st Round (10)
 
Riga’s group is a deep one that contains five active prospects. Nicolas Fomba, a goalie prospect drafted in the third round of the S69 Draft, prepares to take on the backup role for the Reign next season. His save percentage in the VHLM has risen every season since S68, leading up to this season’s 0.900 save percentage. Fomba has been earning around 8-12 TPE per week for over a month now, but even before that his TPE earning wasn’t too bad.
 
Fomba is one of four active third-round picks in Riga’s prospect pool. Two of them, Cassius Gardner and Rich Dickbutt McFudderdudder, were selected in the S71 Draft, seven spots apart. Although Gardner had a brief period of inactivity, he is back to form now and earns at least 8 TPE a week. After putting up 0 points in S70, Gardner had a terrific breakout season with 63 points in 72 games this time around. McFudderdudder has put up great numbers all around for Ottawa this season, more than doubling most of last season’s stats. His TPE earning has been fairly inconsistent lately, but if he can get back to earning roughly 8 TPE per week again, he will be one to watch for sure. The last third-round pick is one who was picked in the S70 Draft. Canadian centre JaredN, or Jared Newman, has progressed steadily so far in his career, increasing his point totals every season with San Diego. His TPE earning ranges from 4 to 10 TPE a week, and if he can get it consistently closer to 10, he could end up in Riga as early as next season.
 
Lastly, we have the team’s top prospect, Pengu. The former first-round pick is now VHL ready and looks to be one of Riga’s core pieces for the future. He regularly earns 14+ TPE a week, though he did have an off week just a couple weeks ago. His 73 assists this season ranked top 10 in the VHLM, and they were accompanied by a really nice total of 44 goals as well. Pengu leads the way for this group, and the others provide depth at each position.
 

 

HELSINKI TITANS | 2nd in EU | 4th Overall
Top Prospect: Vladimir Shaposhnikov - S70 2nd Round (20)
 
Moving on to Helsinki, this team has an unbelievable amount of depth too, but in a very peculiar way. Their prospects generally haven’t been the most active, but are either VHL ready or really close. A perfect example of this would be Joakim Sakic, who sits at 252 TPE, but only earns 2 TPE a week, joined by an occasional 6. Sakic will be ready to make an impact right away, but likely doesn’t have too much upside because he is already in his fourth season since being drafted, and doesn’t have many more seasons to develop before regression hits. Despite this, he will still be a good depth piece for the Titans in the near future.
 
Another player in that same category is forward Jack Russell, who has 248 TPE. Like Sakic, he will play next season and provide immediate depth up front for the big club. Russell earns 6 TPE every week or two and had career highs in points, goals and assists this season. The security of knowing two of their less active prospects will be VHL players is a luxury no other team has.
 
Helsinki really has two wildcards in their system, being Hex Valentine and Ike Bennett. Bennett was a pretty highly regarded prospect and still is, but his activity has really dropped as of late. Being at 242 TPE already, he could be a scary good prospect if he picks it back up. He broke 50 goals and 100 points this season and already has 8 points in the playoffs as well. Also at play here is Hex Valentine, who would be considered a wildcard because of the fact that he has come back this week after a long stretch of inactivity. His 11 TPE this week does inspire a lot of confidence, but only time will tell if he can keep this going. If so, this team has a very enticing goalie prospect on their hands.
 
Now, we move on to the cream of the crop. Selected fourteenth overall in last offseason’s draft, Bob Helminen seems to be on track to make his VHL debut next season, with 220 TPE. He cracked 100 points as well and looks to be a really good prospect for the team in the future. The team’s top prospect, in my opinion, Vladimir Shaposhnikov, went from claiming 6 TPE a week to exceeding that each and every week for two months now. At 260 TPE, he’s ready for the big league, and with over 50 goals in S71, he will provide some quality scoring depth.
 

 

HC DAVOS DYNAMO | 1st in EU | 1st Overall
Top Prospect: Alex Bridges - S70 2nd Round (19)
 
And finally, here we have it: the best prospect pool in the VHL, belonging to Davos. It’s truly remarkable how many elite prospects find themselves in this group, and it took me some time to really decide who the top prospect would be here. I went with Alex Bridges, because of his great forum activity, willingness to pursue jobs and the fact that he has the most TPE here. He definitely seems like one who will have a long, successful career. In terms of earning TPE, he commonly earns around 12 per week and takes advantage of uncapped opportunities as well. Bridges is coming off of a monster VHLM season, in which he put up 135 points and 234 hits.
 
Another prospect fresh off of a fantastic VHLM season is Joakim Bruden, who may have just had a Benoit Devereux Trophy calibre performance in S71. With the combination of Bruden’s 310 TPE and Bridges’ 325 TPE, Davos has two prospects who are not only VHL ready, but who are primed to be quality players as soon as they enter the league. Other than one week in March, he has regularly earned 8-12 TPE per week, and occasionally more. There’s definitely potential for a VHL starter here.
 
Selected with the very next pick after Bruden, was Vin Calia. Calia was a bit of a wildcard in the draft because of how late he joined, but he has panned out in what Davos must’ve considered the ideal scenario when they drafted him. Even having a great deal of ground to make up on all the prospects selected around him, he has already passed a lot of them and is quickly catching up to others. He was top five in points in the regular season and is currently leading the playoffs in points. When everything is all said and done, Calia could easily end up as the best player to come out of this group.
 
Two of the prospects here were undoubtedly steals at their draft slots, and they would be Nikita Kulikovich and Big Chungus. Kulikovich was arguably the top defenseman in the minors this season, and could quite possibly be on Davos in S72. He earns a baseline of 6 TPE a week, but he also takes part in some uncapped opportunities. Chungus was picked in the VHL’s most recent draft and has rapidly surpassed many of those selected above him. Like seemingly every Davos prospect, he also had a tremendous season, with a league-wide third-ranked 143 points. He was also one of only two players to finish with at least a goal per game average in S71. Earning 10-12 TPE a week, he will be a great piece for the Dynamo for now and the future.
 
While they may not have been the steals that the prior two were, there are two more really solid third-round picks here. S70 draftee Jack Feriancek is just about ready to join the big club and almost tripled his previous career-high in points this season with Minnesota. He earns around 8-10 TPE per week as well. Mickey Dickson is another third-round pick who is the definition of consistent. Looking at his weekly TPE earning, it’s tens across the board. He’s still got some work ahead of him before he graduates from the VHLM since he does have just 187 TPE at the moment. Producing at almost a point per game this season, Dickson will soon be an impact player for Davos.
 
There are another pair of players who have been a bit on and off with their activity lately, being King Kruul and Gino Alkamino. Kruul often earns 8 TPE a week, but also tends to miss a fair amount of weeks entirely. Consistency will be key moving forward for him. Alkamino took a massive step forward in terms of his stats this season, but his tendency to go inactive for weeks at a time is a bit concerning. When he is active, he earns 6+ TPE, which is serviceable. Both of these guys could become quality players down the road if they become more consistent.
 
Undrafted S71 prospect Trey Nets was signed by Davos this season and has shown some VHL upside, though it has mainly come in flashes. His numbers in the VHLM took a hit this season, but he could easily bounce back if he keeps progressing. Lastly, we have Brenden Rose. Rose claims practice facility each week, and sometimes he earns some capped TPE to go with it. To date, he hasn’t shown too much upside, but could quickly turn it around if he starts earning more capped TPE on a weekly basis.
 
 
Well, that’s it for this season’s edition of Future Watch! I can’t wait to see these prospects become the next wave of VHL players, and play out their careers. Good luck to all of them!

To follow these prospects for yourself, consider keeping up with the VHLM Weekly Review, written by VSN’s @Mr_Hatter! He, along with the rest of our team, is constantly putting out great content that any member could enjoy. Here’s some of our most recent work:
| Talents Behind The Trophies | VHL Weekly | VSN Radio | VHLM Weekly |
 
Players mentioined: @LittleRiDog @Spade18 @HearnNation67 @GoadenGoalie35 @Grant @BigIrish @Legend0985 @Gscx420 @quanack @DrHexDex @Caboose30 @Bob Helminen @ng1291 @efiug @jhatty8 @Weretarantula @jared @Pengu @Alex Bridges @PadStack @VinCal @Lockdown Defense @Ferda @Jackie4967 @Brewins15 @LefLop @ChaceT @KillaScrilla @btown03
 

The VHLM playoffs are in full swing and things aren't looking great for Woody McPine and the Minnesota Storm. The squad has won only 1 of the first 4 games against the San Diego Marlins, putting them on the brink of elimination early. While there's still time to turn it around, it's got to be a disappointing start for a team that finish the regular season winning 16 of their last 17 games. Much of the blame can be placed on McPine who seems to have cracked under the playoff pressure. While his numbers are better than his first round exit with Vegas last post season, they are still not up to par with what he showed he could do in the regular season on world juniors. McPine and the Storm look to rebound and save their season in game 5 tomorrow, and kick start their run to the cup.

The VHLM playoffs are in full swing and things aren't looking great for Woody McPine and the Minnesota Storm. The squad has won only 1 of the first 4 games against the San Diego Marlins, putting them on the brink of elimination early. While there's still time to turn it around, it's got to be a disappointing start for a team that finish the regular season winning 16 of their last 17 games. Much of the blame can be placed on McPine who seems to have cracked under the playoff pressure. While his numbers are better than his first round exit with Vegas last post season, they are still not up to par with what he showed he could do in the regular season on world juniors. McPine and the Storm look to rebound and save their season in game 5 tomorrow, and kick start their run to the cup.

Woody McPine and the Minnesota Storm finished the VHLM regular season on fire, winning 16 games in a row before losing their last game to Yukon in a battle for 2nd place. We managed to get the young goaltender to sit down for an interview before the playoffs.
 
Question: You guys seemed unstoppable during that last stretch of the season, how will that help you in the playoffs?
Woody: We gained a lot of confidence during those games. We know we can beat any team that we face.
 
Q: You started the season a little rough, what turned it around for you?
W: I wasn't playing great, that's for sure. But I put the axe to the oak as they say, and worked my ass off to get to where the team needed me to be. After that, we all clicked and it was smooth sailing.
 
Q: Now that your first full regular season is in the books, what are you most proud of?
W: That's a tough one but I'd have to say helping the team into the playoffs or representing my country at the world juniors.
 
Q: Speaking of the juniors, can you tell us a bit about what that was like?
W: Oh it was amazing. We had a great team. Didn't get the result we wanted, but still managed to silence the doubters and win a nice bronze.
 
Q: You were also named the top goalie in the tournament. What does that mean to you?
W: It's a huge honor, but I couldn't have done it without my teammates.
 
Q: Tell us about the prize you gave the Americans.
W: (Laughs) Well after we beat them, I remember looking over at them while we were celebrating and they all looked so sad and I wanted to do something to cheer them up.
 
Q: Do you think it worked?
W: My Storm teammates, Robin Winter and Gavin Harris, had a good laugh about it so I hope the rest of the team did as well.
 
Q: Back to the VHLM. You finished with a record of 49-13-1, with 4 shutouts, a GAA of 2.9, and save % of 0.877. Those are much better numbers than your time with Vegas. What made the difference?
W: A lot of things really. Lots of practice is the main thing, as well as upping my off season training. Another big thing was the Vegas was in a rebuilding year so that, combined with my inexperience meant that there would be a lot of tough games.
 
Q: Both the Storm and Vegas made the playoffs, do you think you'll end up playing each other?
W: I hope so, it'd be fun to have a go at them.
 
Q: You guys have San Diego in the first round, any thoughts on that?
W: It should be a good series, they're a tough team.
 
Q: Woody, thanks for sitting down with us and best of luck in the post season.
W: Thank you, it was my pleasure.

You did a great job this season, can't wait to have you up with us in Prague!

Woody McPine and the Minnesota Storm finished the VHLM regular season on fire, winning 16 games in a row before losing their last game to Yukon in a battle for 2nd place. We managed to get the young goaltender to sit down for an interview before the playoffs.
 
Question: You guys seemed unstoppable during that last stretch of the season, how will that help you in the playoffs?
Woody: We gained a lot of confidence during those games. We know we can beat any team that we face.
 
Q: You started the season a little rough, what turned it around for you?
W: I wasn't playing great, that's for sure. But I put the axe to the oak as they say, and worked my ass off to get to where the team needed me to be. After that, we all clicked and it was smooth sailing.
 
Q: Now that your first full regular season is in the books, what are you most proud of?
W: That's a tough one but I'd have to say helping the team into the playoffs or representing my country at the world juniors.
 
Q: Speaking of the juniors, can you tell us a bit about what that was like?
W: Oh it was amazing. We had a great team. Didn't get the result we wanted, but still managed to silence the doubters and win a nice bronze.
 
Q: You were also named the top goalie in the tournament. What does that mean to you?
W: It's a huge honor, but I couldn't have done it without my teammates.
 
Q: Tell us about the prize you gave the Americans.
W: (Laughs) Well after we beat them, I remember looking over at them while we were celebrating and they all looked so sad and I wanted to do something to cheer them up.
 
Q: Do you think it worked?
W: My Storm teammates, Robin Winter and Gavin Harris, had a good laugh about it so I hope the rest of the team did as well.
 
Q: Back to the VHLM. You finished with a record of 49-13-1, with 4 shutouts, a GAA of 2.9, and save % of 0.877. Those are much better numbers than your time with Vegas. What made the difference?
W: A lot of things really. Lots of practice is the main thing, as well as upping my off season training. Another big thing was the Vegas was in a rebuilding year so that, combined with my inexperience meant that there would be a lot of tough games.
 
Q: Both the Storm and Vegas made the playoffs, do you think you'll end up playing each other?
W: I hope so, it'd be fun to have a go at them.
 
Q: You guys have San Diego in the first round, any thoughts on that?
W: It should be a good series, they're a tough team.
 
Q: Woody, thanks for sitting down with us and best of luck in the post season.
W: Thank you, it was my pleasure.

Woody McPine and the Minnesota Storm finished the VHLM regular season on fire, winning 16 games in a row before losing their last game to Yukon in a battle for 2nd place. We managed to get the young goaltender to sit down for an interview before the playoffs.
 
Question: You guys seemed unstoppable during that last stretch of the season, how will that help you in the playoffs?
Woody: We gained a lot of confidence during those games. We know we can beat any team that we face.
 
Q: You started the season a little rough, what turned it around for you?
W: I wasn't playing great, that's for sure. But I put the axe to the oak as they say, and worked my ass off to get to where the team needed me to be. After that, we all clicked and it was smooth sailing.
 
Q: Now that your first full regular season is in the books, what are you most proud of?
W: That's a tough one but I'd have to say helping the team into the playoffs or representing my country at the world juniors.
 
Q: Speaking of the juniors, can you tell us a bit about what that was like?
W: Oh it was amazing. We had a great team. Didn't get the result we wanted, but still managed to silence the doubters and win a nice bronze.
 
Q: You were also named the top goalie in the tournament. What does that mean to you?
W: It's a huge honor, but I couldn't have done it without my teammates.
 
Q: Tell us about the prize you gave the Americans.
W: (Laughs) Well after we beat them, I remember looking over at them while we were celebrating and they all looked so sad and I wanted to do something to cheer them up.
 
Q: Do you think it worked?
W: My Storm teammates, Robin Winter and Gavin Harris, had a good laugh about it so I hope the rest of the team did as well.
 
Q: Back to the VHLM. You finished with a record of 49-13-1, with 4 shutouts, a GAA of 2.9, and save % of 0.877. Those are much better numbers than your time with Vegas. What made the difference?
W: A lot of things really. Lots of practice is the main thing, as well as upping my off season training. Another big thing was the Vegas was in a rebuilding year so that, combined with my inexperience meant that there would be a lot of tough games.
 
Q: Both the Storm and Vegas made the playoffs, do you think you'll end up playing each other?
W: I hope so, it'd be fun to have a go at them.
 
Q: You guys have San Diego in the first round, any thoughts on that?
W: It should be a good series, they're a tough team.
 
Q: Woody, thanks for sitting down with us and best of luck in the post season.
W: Thank you, it was my pleasure.

Woody McPine and the Minnesota Storm finished the VHLM regular season on fire, winning 16 games in a row before losing their last game to Yukon in a battle for 2nd place. We managed to get the young goaltender to sit down for an interview before the playoffs.
 
Question: You guys seemed unstoppable during that last stretch of the season, how will that help you in the playoffs?
Woody: We gained a lot of confidence during those games. We know we can beat any team that we face.
 
Q: You started the season a little rough, what turned it around for you?
W: I wasn't playing great, that's for sure. But I put the axe to the oak as they say, and worked my ass off to get to where the team needed me to be. After that, we all clicked and it was smooth sailing.
 
Q: Now that your first full regular season is in the books, what are you most proud of?
W: That's a tough one but I'd have to say helping the team into the playoffs or representing my country at the world juniors.
 
Q: Speaking of the juniors, can you tell us a bit about what that was like?
W: Oh it was amazing. We had a great team. Didn't get the result we wanted, but still managed to silence the doubters and win a nice bronze.
 
Q: You were also named the top goalie in the tournament. What does that mean to you?
W: It's a huge honor, but I couldn't have done it without my teammates.
 
Q: Tell us about the prize you gave the Americans.
W: (Laughs) Well after we beat them, I remember looking over at them while we were celebrating and they all looked so sad and I wanted to do something to cheer them up.
 
Q: Do you think it worked?
W: My Storm teammates, Robin Winter and Gavin Harris, had a good laugh about it so I hope the rest of the team did as well.
 
Q: Back to the VHLM. You finished with a record of 49-13-1, with 4 shutouts, a GAA of 2.9, and save % of 0.877. Those are much better numbers than your time with Vegas. What made the difference?
W: A lot of things really. Lots of practice is the main thing, as well as upping my off season training. Another big thing was the Vegas was in a rebuilding year so that, combined with my inexperience meant that there would be a lot of tough games.
 
Q: Both the Storm and Vegas made the playoffs, do you think you'll end up playing each other?
W: I hope so, it'd be fun to have a go at them.
 
Q: You guys have San Diego in the first round, any thoughts on that?
W: It should be a good series, they're a tough team.
 
Q: Woody, thanks for sitting down with us and best of luck in the post season.
W: Thank you, it was my pleasure.

Woody McPine and the Minnesota Storm finished the VHLM regular season on fire, winning 16 games in a row before losing their last game to Yukon in a battle for 2nd place. We managed to get the young goaltender to sit down for an interview before the playoffs.
 
Question: You guys seemed unstoppable during that last stretch of the season, how will that help you in the playoffs?
Woody: We gained a lot of confidence during those games. We know we can beat any team that we face.
 
Q: You started the season a little rough, what turned it around for you?
W: I wasn't playing great, that's for sure. But I put the axe to the oak as they say, and worked my ass off to get to where the team needed me to be. After that, we all clicked and it was smooth sailing.
 
Q: Now that your first full regular season is in the books, what are you most proud of?
W: That's a tough one but I'd have to say helping the team into the playoffs or representing my country at the world juniors.
 
Q: Speaking of the juniors, can you tell us a bit about what that was like?
W: Oh it was amazing. We had a great team. Didn't get the result we wanted, but still managed to silence the doubters and win a nice bronze.
 
Q: You were also named the top goalie in the tournament. What does that mean to you?
W: It's a huge honor, but I couldn't have done it without my teammates.
 
Q: Tell us about the prize you gave the Americans.
W: (Laughs) Well after we beat them, I remember looking over at them while we were celebrating and they all looked so sad and I wanted to do something to cheer them up.
 
Q: Do you think it worked?
W: My Storm teammates, Robin Winter and Gavin Harris, had a good laugh about it so I hope the rest of the team did as well.
 
Q: Back to the VHLM. You finished with a record of 49-13-1, with 4 shutouts, a GAA of 2.9, and save % of 0.877. Those are much better numbers than your time with Vegas. What made the difference?
W: A lot of things really. Lots of practice is the main thing, as well as upping my off season training. Another big thing was the Vegas was in a rebuilding year so that, combined with my inexperience meant that there would be a lot of tough games.
 
Q: Both the Storm and Vegas made the playoffs, do you think you'll end up playing each other?
W: I hope so, it'd be fun to have a go at them.
 
Q: You guys have San Diego in the first round, any thoughts on that?
W: It should be a good series, they're a tough team.
 
Q: Woody, thanks for sitting down with us and best of luck in the post season.
W: Thank you, it was my pleasure.

1. Made the playoffs last year with Vegas, we got swept in the first round
2. Definitely the team coming together, no flukes on this team
3. Should be a tough series but we'll come out on top if we stick to the game plan
4. I'm assuming you meant 2nd, but I don't think it will matter too much
6. They're huge studs, incredibly important to our success especially down the stretch
7. Winning it allllll

Another tournament down!
 
 
I wanted to thank @Josh for simming  and @rjfrymanfor helping with being a commissioner. As well as all the GM's @Spence King, @twists, @Zetterberg, @Zyrok and @Spartan.
 
So now the awards!
 
S71 World Juniors Award Show
Medal Winners

Europe
 
Asia
 

Canada
 
 
 
WJC All-Team
F -  Vladimir Shaposhnikov @ng1291
F- Kyl Oferson @Nykonax
F - Erik Killinger @Peace
D -  Hugh Jass @TheFlash
D - Nikita Kulikovic @Lockdown Defense
G - Woody McPine @HearnNation67
 
Tournament MVP
F -  Vladimir Shaposhnikov @ng1291
 
Shaposhnikov lead the round robin in points and assists. Vladimir was also the one who scored the overtime winner against the United States to put the Asia into the Gold Medal game. For his consistency and leadership through the tournament Vladimir Shaposhnikov is this seasons WJC MVP. 
 
Congratulations to all the winners, and thank you to all who participated in this tournament. The WJC is a great place for new members to gain experience and learn how the league is run. I had a blast running this years tournament and here is looking to next seasons!

Have you dreamed about being an NHL superstar but maybe an injury cut your career short? Or you were too lazy like me and had very little athletic ability? Maybe you grew up playing street hockey with your friends, recreating iconic moments and creating your own. Maybe you played all the video games and wanted to see your face on the cover of the newest EA Sports game or the greater hockey series, NHL Hitz. Perhaps you dreamed of shining in one of Don Cherry's Rock 'em Sock 'em videos or be featured on his next techno single*. Or maybe you prefer to be the mastermind behind a dynasty, the next Lou Lamoriello, Ken Holland, or Peter Chiarelli. If you've ever imagined any of these scenarios, then the Victory Hockey League is the league for you.
The VHL is a simulation based hockey league, where you control how your skills grow through various types of “point tasks”. Point tasks range from short, 150 word articles to 500 word media spots, team or individual press conferences, a quick podcast, or creating a graphic card for players or teams. You can use these point tasks to review the VHL and the world around you, or to grow the legend of your player. You can also get points by doing different jobs around the league, including being a General or Assistant General Manager. The GMs and AGMs are in charge of the 12 VHL teams and 11 VHLM (the minor league) teams. Controlling lines, signing free agents, trading, and asking press conference questions are just some of their duties. The are also a great help if you need something explained, or need some tips in building your star.
Creating a player is easy as pie, and you're in control of their history, skills, position, and physical attributes. Pick the right country, and you could see yourself wearing the flag in the World Juniors or World Championships someday. You can name your player after yourself, someone famous, someone you know, a fictional character, or just make up a name. I myself am what they call a “first gen” player, which just means that I've created one player. I chose to create a goalie, who I named Woody McPine. Woody is named after a wooden goaltender my dad made me when I was a kid to shoot on, and my friends and I named him as appropriately as we could. Now, the original Woody McPine didn't have great movement but he was still a solid goalie, especially because I had no aim. His career ended tragically after his arm was broken by a soccer ball. The new McPine has a different backstory than that (and better movement), which has been a lot of fun to create, and is on his way to becoming a legend in the league. You can check it out on the VHL's website if you so choose.
Once your character is made, you'll either get signed or drafted into the VHLM, depending on when in the season you create. And then, your journey to superstardom begins.
 
*
You're welcome
 
Word Count: 518

Canadian all-star goalie Woody McPine and his team took home the bronze medal in this seasons world junior championship after beating their arch rivals, USA six to four. After several celebratory beverages, McPine called up his father with a truly Canadian requst. He asked his father to create a consolation prize for the Americans. Father McPine, who owns a tree farm, got to work right away. He created solid oak plaques shaped like a number 4 for each player and coach, inscribed with their names, number, position, as well as the word “loser” and the score of the game in tiny letters at the top. These rewards will be shipped out immediately, except for McPine's Minnesota Storm teammates, Robin Winter and Gavin Harris, which McPine will deliver personally. There is no word yet on wether or not McPine has any plans to give Team World a prize for last place or not, but he would like to congratulate Team Europe on their gold medal win over Team Asia.
 
Word count: 168

Canadian all-star goalie Woody McPine and his team took home the bronze medal in this seasons world junior championship after beating their arch rivals, USA six to four. After several celebratory beverages, McPine called up his father with a truly Canadian requst. He asked his father to create a consolation prize for the Americans. Father McPine, who owns a tree farm, got to work right away. He created solid oak plaques shaped like a number 4 for each player and coach, inscribed with their names, number, position, as well as the word “loser” and the score of the game in tiny letters at the top. These rewards will be shipped out immediately, except for McPine's Minnesota Storm teammates, Robin Winter and Gavin Harris, which McPine will deliver personally. There is no word yet on wether or not McPine has any plans to give Team World a prize for last place or not, but he would like to congratulate Team Europe on their gold medal win over Team Asia.
 
Word count: 168

Power Rankings? Who cares about those. We all know that power rankings are made by nerds at desks, with pinstriped ties, with no knowledge of the game at all. Patrik Tallinder, whose that? Sounds like a nerd. Not putting Canada at number 1? This guy must be worse at his job than actual NHL refs. Now here I'm going to tell you the cold hard facts about the WJC. Canada is number 1, screw your power rankings. You heard it here first folks, Canada is taking home the gold. Let's look at the competition and what this "Patrik Tallinder" ranked them as.
 
#1 Europe?
 I'm sorry but this ranking isn't on who's the best at starting world wars, next.
 
#2 USA?
 Apologies but they got lost in the nearest Target, trying to figure out how to convert metric into imperial.
 
#3 Canada?
 This is absolute blasphemy that Canada isn't #1. Lack of Depth? This ain't a swimming pool kiddo, try again.
 
Asia and World #4 and #5?
Good bottom of the barrel like they should be.
 
As always thanks for tuning into the REAL WJC POWER RANKINGS. Done by someone who isn't a nerd.

Have you dreamed about being an NHL superstar but maybe an injury cut your career short? Or you were too lazy like me and had very little athletic ability? Maybe you grew up playing street hockey with your friends, recreating iconic moments and creating your own. Maybe you played all the video games and wanted to see your face on the cover of the newest EA Sports game or the greater hockey series, NHL Hitz. Perhaps you dreamed of shining in one of Don Cherry's Rock 'em Sock 'em videos or be featured on his next techno single*. Or maybe you prefer to be the mastermind behind a dynasty, the next Lou Lamoriello, Ken Holland, or Peter Chiarelli. If you've ever imagined any of these scenarios, then the Victory Hockey League is the league for you.
The VHL is a simulation based hockey league, where you control how your skills grow through various types of “point tasks”. Point tasks range from short, 150 word articles to 500 word media spots, team or individual press conferences, a quick podcast, or creating a graphic card for players or teams. You can use these point tasks to review the VHL and the world around you, or to grow the legend of your player. You can also get points by doing different jobs around the league, including being a General or Assistant General Manager. The GMs and AGMs are in charge of the 12 VHL teams and 11 VHLM (the minor league) teams. Controlling lines, signing free agents, trading, and asking press conference questions are just some of their duties. The are also a great help if you need something explained, or need some tips in building your star.
Creating a player is easy as pie, and you're in control of their history, skills, position, and physical attributes. Pick the right country, and you could see yourself wearing the flag in the World Juniors or World Championships someday. You can name your player after yourself, someone famous, someone you know, a fictional character, or just make up a name. I myself am what they call a “first gen” player, which just means that I've created one player. I chose to create a goalie, who I named Woody McPine. Woody is named after a wooden goaltender my dad made me when I was a kid to shoot on, and my friends and I named him as appropriately as we could. Now, the original Woody McPine didn't have great movement but he was still a solid goalie, especially because I had no aim. His career ended tragically after his arm was broken by a soccer ball. The new McPine has a different backstory than that (and better movement), which has been a lot of fun to create, and is on his way to becoming a legend in the league. You can check it out on the VHL's website if you so choose.
Once your character is made, you'll either get signed or drafted into the VHLM, depending on when in the season you create. And then, your journey to superstardom begins.
 
*
You're welcome
 
Word Count: 518

Have you dreamed about being an NHL superstar but maybe an injury cut your career short? Or you were too lazy like me and had very little athletic ability? Maybe you grew up playing street hockey with your friends, recreating iconic moments and creating your own. Maybe you played all the video games and wanted to see your face on the cover of the newest EA Sports game or the greater hockey series, NHL Hitz. Perhaps you dreamed of shining in one of Don Cherry's Rock 'em Sock 'em videos or be featured on his next techno single*. Or maybe you prefer to be the mastermind behind a dynasty, the next Lou Lamoriello, Ken Holland, or Peter Chiarelli. If you've ever imagined any of these scenarios, then the Victory Hockey League is the league for you.
The VHL is a simulation based hockey league, where you control how your skills grow through various types of “point tasks”. Point tasks range from short, 150 word articles to 500 word media spots, team or individual press conferences, a quick podcast, or creating a graphic card for players or teams. You can use these point tasks to review the VHL and the world around you, or to grow the legend of your player. You can also get points by doing different jobs around the league, including being a General or Assistant General Manager. The GMs and AGMs are in charge of the 12 VHL teams and 11 VHLM (the minor league) teams. Controlling lines, signing free agents, trading, and asking press conference questions are just some of their duties. The are also a great help if you need something explained, or need some tips in building your star.
Creating a player is easy as pie, and you're in control of their history, skills, position, and physical attributes. Pick the right country, and you could see yourself wearing the flag in the World Juniors or World Championships someday. You can name your player after yourself, someone famous, someone you know, a fictional character, or just make up a name. I myself am what they call a “first gen” player, which just means that I've created one player. I chose to create a goalie, who I named Woody McPine. Woody is named after a wooden goaltender my dad made me when I was a kid to shoot on, and my friends and I named him as appropriately as we could. Now, the original Woody McPine didn't have great movement but he was still a solid goalie, especially because I had no aim. His career ended tragically after his arm was broken by a soccer ball. The new McPine has a different backstory than that (and better movement), which has been a lot of fun to create, and is on his way to becoming a legend in the league. You can check it out on the VHL's website if you so choose.
Once your character is made, you'll either get signed or drafted into the VHLM, depending on when in the season you create. And then, your journey to superstardom begins.
 
*
You're welcome
 
Word Count: 518

Have you dreamed about being an NHL superstar but maybe an injury cut your career short? Or you were too lazy like me and had very little athletic ability? Maybe you grew up playing street hockey with your friends, recreating iconic moments and creating your own. Maybe you played all the video games and wanted to see your face on the cover of the newest EA Sports game or the greater hockey series, NHL Hitz. Perhaps you dreamed of shining in one of Don Cherry's Rock 'em Sock 'em videos or be featured on his next techno single*. Or maybe you prefer to be the mastermind behind a dynasty, the next Lou Lamoriello, Ken Holland, or Peter Chiarelli. If you've ever imagined any of these scenarios, then the Victory Hockey League is the league for you.
The VHL is a simulation based hockey league, where you control how your skills grow through various types of “point tasks”. Point tasks range from short, 150 word articles to 500 word media spots, team or individual press conferences, a quick podcast, or creating a graphic card for players or teams. You can use these point tasks to review the VHL and the world around you, or to grow the legend of your player. You can also get points by doing different jobs around the league, including being a General or Assistant General Manager. The GMs and AGMs are in charge of the 12 VHL teams and 11 VHLM (the minor league) teams. Controlling lines, signing free agents, trading, and asking press conference questions are just some of their duties. The are also a great help if you need something explained, or need some tips in building your star.
Creating a player is easy as pie, and you're in control of their history, skills, position, and physical attributes. Pick the right country, and you could see yourself wearing the flag in the World Juniors or World Championships someday. You can name your player after yourself, someone famous, someone you know, a fictional character, or just make up a name. I myself am what they call a “first gen” player, which just means that I've created one player. I chose to create a goalie, who I named Woody McPine. Woody is named after a wooden goaltender my dad made me when I was a kid to shoot on, and my friends and I named him as appropriately as we could. Now, the original Woody McPine didn't have great movement but he was still a solid goalie, especially because I had no aim. His career ended tragically after his arm was broken by a soccer ball. The new McPine has a different backstory than that (and better movement), which has been a lot of fun to create, and is on his way to becoming a legend in the league. You can check it out on the VHL's website if you so choose.
Once your character is made, you'll either get signed or drafted into the VHLM, depending on when in the season you create. And then, your journey to superstardom begins.
 
*
You're welcome
 
Word Count: 518

Have you dreamed about being an NHL superstar but maybe an injury cut your career short? Or you were too lazy like me and had very little athletic ability? Maybe you grew up playing street hockey with your friends, recreating iconic moments and creating your own. Maybe you played all the video games and wanted to see your face on the cover of the newest EA Sports game or the greater hockey series, NHL Hitz. Perhaps you dreamed of shining in one of Don Cherry's Rock 'em Sock 'em videos or be featured on his next techno single*. Or maybe you prefer to be the mastermind behind a dynasty, the next Lou Lamoriello, Ken Holland, or Peter Chiarelli. If you've ever imagined any of these scenarios, then the Victory Hockey League is the league for you.
The VHL is a simulation based hockey league, where you control how your skills grow through various types of “point tasks”. Point tasks range from short, 150 word articles to 500 word media spots, team or individual press conferences, a quick podcast, or creating a graphic card for players or teams. You can use these point tasks to review the VHL and the world around you, or to grow the legend of your player. You can also get points by doing different jobs around the league, including being a General or Assistant General Manager. The GMs and AGMs are in charge of the 12 VHL teams and 11 VHLM (the minor league) teams. Controlling lines, signing free agents, trading, and asking press conference questions are just some of their duties. The are also a great help if you need something explained, or need some tips in building your star.
Creating a player is easy as pie, and you're in control of their history, skills, position, and physical attributes. Pick the right country, and you could see yourself wearing the flag in the World Juniors or World Championships someday. You can name your player after yourself, someone famous, someone you know, a fictional character, or just make up a name. I myself am what they call a “first gen” player, which just means that I've created one player. I chose to create a goalie, who I named Woody McPine. Woody is named after a wooden goaltender my dad made me when I was a kid to shoot on, and my friends and I named him as appropriately as we could. Now, the original Woody McPine didn't have great movement but he was still a solid goalie, especially because I had no aim. His career ended tragically after his arm was broken by a soccer ball. The new McPine has a different backstory than that (and better movement), which has been a lot of fun to create, and is on his way to becoming a legend in the league. You can check it out on the VHL's website if you so choose.
Once your character is made, you'll either get signed or drafted into the VHLM, depending on when in the season you create. And then, your journey to superstardom begins.
 
*
You're welcome
 
Word Count: 518