ScottyP

Off Season Report - Rip Wheeler: 
 
Rip Wheeler is a hard nosed hockey player who just finished his season Las Vegas Aces. Despite having a successful season, Rip knew that he had to keep training in the off-season to maintain his skills and improve his game. He had a solid rookie season in the VHLM, but he had aspirations of one day making it to the show! 
 
Rip hired a personal trainer from YouTube and began his rigorous training schedule. He started by working on his endurance, running several miles every day, and hitting the gym for strength training. He also worked on his agility and speed by doing drills and exercises that focused on his footwork and quickness. Rip incorporated CrossFit and even Brazilian jiujitsu into his fitness routine. He also started taking boxing classes so that when and of the time came to drop the mits, he would be ready to go and put on a show. 
 
In addition to his physical training, Rip also focused on his mental game. He began to watch Tony Robbins seminar videos and listen to Jocko and Joe Rogan podcasts. There was not a second wasted as he began transform into beast! He also watched his previous games and analyzed his mistakes, learning from them and developing systems and processes to avoid committing the same mistakes again. He also visualized himself playing in different game scenarios, dropping the gloves with Brian Payne, deking out Jake Thunder and making the perfect pass or scoring the game winning goal! The separation truly is in the preparation, and Rip was definitely going to be prepared. 
 
Despite the hard work and long hours, Rip never lost his motivation. Hearing his name called on draft day would be a dream come true! And the blood, sweet and tears were worth it. Rip knew that the off-season was just as important as the regular season and that his dedication and hard work would pay off. He continued to train relentlessly, pushing himself to be the best up and coming prospect he could be. Rip envisioned himself as a power forward modeled after Eric Lindros, Brenden Shannahan and Jerome Iginla. So the type of play that puts up alotta points, while racking up lots of hits and some PIMS! 
 
Rip's dedication and hard work had not only improved his game, but had also inspired other prospects to work harder and strive for greatness. Iron sharpens iron, and Rip and some of this years top prospects began to workout together, pushing each other to get better each day. His determination had made him a better player and a natural leader on any team he becomes a part of. Rip is ready to take on any challenge that come his way.
 
As the draft approached, Rip felt confident and prepared. His training had paid off, and he was ready for the big day. There was only one question left…what to wear to the draft!? 
 
To pay homage to his Yellowstone roots, Rip decided to go with a Classic Western Cowboy Tail Tuxedo in Black. All he needed was to put on a cowboy hat, throw on his bolo tie and he was ready good to go! This tuxedo had a long tail jacket with satin lapels and matching pants. He looked sharp, and if you look good, you feel good and when you feel good you play good. It’s a story as old as time. And with that, Rip was ready for prime time! 
 
 
 

Off Season Report - Rip Wheeler: 
 
Rip Wheeler is a hard nosed hockey player who just finished his season Las Vegas Aces. Despite having a successful season, Rip knew that he had to keep training in the off-season to maintain his skills and improve his game. He had a solid rookie season in the VHLM, but he had aspirations of one day making it to the show! 
 
Rip hired a personal trainer from YouTube and began his rigorous training schedule. He started by working on his endurance, running several miles every day, and hitting the gym for strength training. He also worked on his agility and speed by doing drills and exercises that focused on his footwork and quickness. Rip incorporated CrossFit and even Brazilian jiujitsu into his fitness routine. He also started taking boxing classes so that when and of the time came to drop the mits, he would be ready to go and put on a show. 
 
In addition to his physical training, Rip also focused on his mental game. He began to watch Tony Robbins seminar videos and listen to Jocko and Joe Rogan podcasts. There was not a second wasted as he began transform into beast! He also watched his previous games and analyzed his mistakes, learning from them and developing systems and processes to avoid committing the same mistakes again. He also visualized himself playing in different game scenarios, dropping the gloves with Brian Payne, deking out Jake Thunder and making the perfect pass or scoring the game winning goal! The separation truly is in the preparation, and Rip was definitely going to be prepared. 
 
Despite the hard work and long hours, Rip never lost his motivation. Hearing his name called on draft day would be a dream come true! And the blood, sweet and tears were worth it. Rip knew that the off-season was just as important as the regular season and that his dedication and hard work would pay off. He continued to train relentlessly, pushing himself to be the best up and coming prospect he could be. Rip envisioned himself as a power forward modeled after Eric Lindros, Brenden Shannahan and Jerome Iginla. So the type of play that puts up alotta points, while racking up lots of hits and some PIMS! 
 
Rip's dedication and hard work had not only improved his game, but had also inspired other prospects to work harder and strive for greatness. Iron sharpens iron, and Rip and some of this years top prospects began to workout together, pushing each other to get better each day. His determination had made him a better player and a natural leader on any team he becomes a part of. Rip is ready to take on any challenge that come his way.
 
As the draft approached, Rip felt confident and prepared. His training had paid off, and he was ready for the big day. There was only one question left…what to wear to the draft!? 
 
To pay homage to his Yellowstone roots, Rip decided to go with a Classic Western Cowboy Tail Tuxedo in Black. All he needed was to put on a cowboy hat, throw on his bolo tie and he was ready good to go! This tuxedo had a long tail jacket with satin lapels and matching pants. He looked sharp, and if you look good, you feel good and when you feel good you play good. It’s a story as old as time. And with that, Rip was ready for prime time! 
 
 
 

The Pre Draft Process:
 
The pre-draft process has been pretty fun! I have been contacted by quite a few teams and have enjoyed the questions and back and forth. Most teams contacted me through the forum messages, but one hit me up on discord messages. We had more of a chat or back and forth…I thought that was a unique and cool approach. 
 
I’m still a bit lost on exactly what happens I am fortunate enough to get drafted by a VHL team. Do I play for that team? Do play for a minor league team still? Do I get sent to the. European league? I’m still a little confused and maybe it depends on the player and or team. If anyone that knows the answers to this questions actually read us this (lol), maybe reply and let me know! 
 
I am excited for a new season (wherever I end up playing). It’s a fresh start and I will be able to stay accountable for my weekly TPE and improve Rip Wheeler to make him a valuable member of whatever team he ends up on. 
 
A few more questions for the 1 or 2 people that may glance at this. What is your favorite way to eat TPE? What are the top 5 attributes you add TPE to and why? What is your goto cocktail? And if you had to eat one type of food for the rest of your life…what would it be?
 
I know those last two aren’t hockey related, but they are important questions that I’d like to know the answer to. 

The Pre Draft Process:
 
The pre-draft process has been pretty fun! I have been contacted by quite a few teams and have enjoyed the questions and back and forth. Most teams contacted me through the forum messages, but one hit me up on discord messages. We had more of a chat or back and forth…I thought that was a unique and cool approach. 
 
I’m still a bit lost on exactly what happens I am fortunate enough to get drafted by a VHL team. Do I play for that team? Do play for a minor league team still? Do I get sent to the. European league? I’m still a little confused and maybe it depends on the player and or team. If anyone that knows the answers to this questions actually read us this (lol), maybe reply and let me know! 
 
I am excited for a new season (wherever I end up playing). It’s a fresh start and I will be able to stay accountable for my weekly TPE and improve Rip Wheeler to make him a valuable member of whatever team he ends up on. 
 
A few more questions for the 1 or 2 people that may glance at this. What is your favorite way to eat TPE? What are the top 5 attributes you add TPE to and why? What is your goto cocktail? And if you had to eat one type of food for the rest of your life…what would it be?
 
I know those last two aren’t hockey related, but they are important questions that I’d like to know the answer to. 

Off Season Report - Rip Wheeler: 
 
Rip Wheeler is a hard nosed hockey player who just finished his season Las Vegas Aces. Despite having a successful season, Rip knew that he had to keep training in the off-season to maintain his skills and improve his game. He had a solid rookie season in the VHLM, but he had aspirations of one day making it to the show! 
 
Rip hired a personal trainer from YouTube and began his rigorous training schedule. He started by working on his endurance, running several miles every day, and hitting the gym for strength training. He also worked on his agility and speed by doing drills and exercises that focused on his footwork and quickness. Rip incorporated CrossFit and even Brazilian jiujitsu into his fitness routine. He also started taking boxing classes so that when and of the time came to drop the mits, he would be ready to go and put on a show. 
 
In addition to his physical training, Rip also focused on his mental game. He began to watch Tony Robbins seminar videos and listen to Jocko and Joe Rogan podcasts. There was not a second wasted as he began transform into beast! He also watched his previous games and analyzed his mistakes, learning from them and developing systems and processes to avoid committing the same mistakes again. He also visualized himself playing in different game scenarios, dropping the gloves with Brian Payne, deking out Jake Thunder and making the perfect pass or scoring the game winning goal! The separation truly is in the preparation, and Rip was definitely going to be prepared. 
 
Despite the hard work and long hours, Rip never lost his motivation. Hearing his name called on draft day would be a dream come true! And the blood, sweet and tears were worth it. Rip knew that the off-season was just as important as the regular season and that his dedication and hard work would pay off. He continued to train relentlessly, pushing himself to be the best up and coming prospect he could be. Rip envisioned himself as a power forward modeled after Eric Lindros, Brenden Shannahan and Jerome Iginla. So the type of play that puts up alotta points, while racking up lots of hits and some PIMS! 
 
Rip's dedication and hard work had not only improved his game, but had also inspired other prospects to work harder and strive for greatness. Iron sharpens iron, and Rip and some of this years top prospects began to workout together, pushing each other to get better each day. His determination had made him a better player and a natural leader on any team he becomes a part of. Rip is ready to take on any challenge that come his way.
 
As the draft approached, Rip felt confident and prepared. His training had paid off, and he was ready for the big day. There was only one question left…what to wear to the draft!? 
 
To pay homage to his Yellowstone roots, Rip decided to go with a Classic Western Cowboy Tail Tuxedo in Black. All he needed was to put on a cowboy hat, throw on his bolo tie and he was ready good to go! This tuxedo had a long tail jacket with satin lapels and matching pants. He looked sharp, and if you look good, you feel good and when you feel good you play good. It’s a story as old as time. And with that, Rip was ready for prime time! 
 
 
 

Plans for Rip Wheeler: 
 
My plans and or intentions for Rip Wheeler for season # 88. 
 
First off, I plan to continue to try and be consistent with the TPE point tasks. I know Scurvy and Sharky will be on me if I don’t. 
 
Second, I plan to make Rip more of a power forward and less of a meat head. Now I love some meatheads…I grew up on the Hanson
Bothers on TV and Bob Probert, Tie Domi, Tony Twist and Rob Ray on the real ice. But Rip has to make a contribution to the score card or he’s not gonna make it in todays VHL (All leagues). 
 
My plan is to continue to upgrade on the offense and defense respectively while holding back a bit on the hits. I feel like RIp produced enought hits and Pims to be considered a tough customer…but I want him to be of more of a Brendan Shanahan, Eric Lindros, Keith Tkachuck type of player…maybe even a modern day (more skilled) Milan Lucic or Tommy Wilson. I want Rip to score goals, be a contributor…but also crush the opposition and be a total pain to play against. 
 
That is my plan for coming season…I hope that I can continue to create PPE and add to Rip and make him a valuable commodity in the VHL, VHLE or VHLM…wherever he ends up…because wherever he does…he’s gonna make an impact…that is a fact. 

Plans for Rip Wheeler: 
 
My plans and or intentions for Rip Wheeler for season # 88. 
 
First off, I plan to continue to try and be consistent with the TPE point tasks. I know Scurvy and Sharky will be on me if I don’t. 
 
Second, I plan to make Rip more of a power forward and less of a meat head. Now I love some meatheads…I grew up on the Hanson
Bothers on TV and Bob Probert, Tie Domi, Tony Twist and Rob Ray on the real ice. But Rip has to make a contribution to the score card or he’s not gonna make it in todays VHL (All leagues). 
 
My plan is to continue to upgrade on the offense and defense respectively while holding back a bit on the hits. I feel like RIp produced enought hits and Pims to be considered a tough customer…but I want him to be of more of a Brendan Shanahan, Eric Lindros, Keith Tkachuck type of player…maybe even a modern day (more skilled) Milan Lucic or Tommy Wilson. I want Rip to score goals, be a contributor…but also crush the opposition and be a total pain to play against. 
 
That is my plan for coming season…I hope that I can continue to create PPE and add to Rip and make him a valuable commodity in the VHL, VHLE or VHLM…wherever he ends up…because wherever he does…he’s gonna make an impact…that is a fact. 

nterview with rookie Rip Wheeler, VHLM - Las Vegas Aces “post game #264”  
 
Q) Hey Rip, Congrats on the big 7-2 win tonight! You guys beat the top dog in Mexico City! Thanks for taking a few minutes to chat. 
 
Q) So take me through the game, you were en fuego tonight. 
 
A) “Ya, uh ya know, I felt like I was back at the crib playing NHL 94 on rookie mode! And damn, boys were buzzin’ tonight for sure! We’ve putting in the work during practice, lots of preparation…as a now disgraced former Super Bowl champ and Seattle Seahawk (Russell Wilson) once said…”the seperation is in the preparation”…he was right…but he’s a goober and he doesn’t play for the hawks any longer…so we don’t like that guy! 
 
Q) Ok Rip interesting take on NFL current events…take me through your three goals, break it down for me.
 
A) “man, I ya know, I uh, felt like a member of seal team 6 buddy, just cooking up snipping ginos for the boys! I was seeing the uh ice in 20 20 vision ya know?! Big time team win ah, for the boys…I mean uh Mexico City has been a uh Goliath…but tonight…we had the slingshot and they called us David”
 
Q) Wow, Rip that’s a lot to unpack! You always have some interesting perspectives on things…I appreciate your time as always good sir…you have a great night and crack open a cold one with the boys, you earned it!
 
A) “Always, team time with the boys is what it’s all about…crack a few bruskis and ahh ya know maybe even some fireball bardownski with the bros…oh yeah…Aces up!”
 
Q) Rip! You’re back! What are you up to you crazy SOB?!
 
A) Buddy! I come bearing gifts! Haha…you know uh, you and the rest of the broadcast team uh, really work your tail off…so i decided to share fire beezy! Let’s goooo! Shots shots shots! Haha 
 
Q) Well, this is definitely a first! Hahaha
 
A) You’ve never had fireball?!  Cmon man! 
 
Q) Ha! Oh no, I’ve definitely had fireball…I went to Washington State University! I’ve just never had a shot ski brought to the broadcast booth! Haha 
 
A) Hey baud, I take care of my guys…and you uh, you know uh, always treat me right! So when I was talking about that SNAKE Russell Wilson…it made me think…you ever heard of the LOB?! 
 
Q) LOB? Lob city? No? Guess I’m not familiar…
 
A) What?! Cmon man! (X2)…the LOB…the Legion Of Boom!!! The most feared defense and secondary in NFL history! 
 
Q) Ok, Ok…but what does that have to do with hockey Rip?
 
A) Well, Russell is a pre Madonna goober snake..but uh, you know uh I’ve fashioned my hockey style after the dark knight himself…Bam Bam Kam Chancellor! He uh, bright the pain every game! He was uh a soul snatcher…just straight up burying bodies on the field…that’s what I envision for my next few years…snatching soils and burying the bodies under sheets of ice! Who wants it! Vegas is ready for anyone, anytime! Wooooo! 
 
Q) Ok well then…(coughing) that fireball shot went down smooth! Thanks for the hospitality, and NFL history lesson Rip. 
 
A) “Anytime, buddy….Aces up!, and drink up!…FIREBALLLLLLL!!”

The Payne Train is Back!
 
After an uncharacteristically slow start, the train of Payne is back rolling! Brian Payne of the Warsaw Predators, is Top 5 in assists for all players…(shoutout to Thunder at #1…he’s too 6 in total points for a d man. Pints, assists…those are nice…but in the world of Payne…other stats take center stage!
 
Top 5 in shots blocked, Payne loves to give up the body for the club…he’s also Top 5 in hits with 273 in 65 games! Damn! You won’t see Payne among the hits take. leaders, because everyone is afraid of that left hand answer to any tomfoolery out there on the rink. 
 
His biggest attribute and where you will see Brian Payne sitting on the throne is when it comes to penalty minutes or PIMS….226 pims through 65 games…he’s holding on to the number one spot by more than 35 minutes! It’s a good thing he likes audio books, cuz Payne spend plenty of time in the sin bin. Keep your head up when you’re on the tracks…cuz the Payne train is back and coming in hot! 

nterview with rookie Rip Wheeler, VHLM - Las Vegas Aces “post game #264”  
 
Q) Hey Rip, Congrats on the big 7-2 win tonight! You guys beat the top dog in Mexico City! Thanks for taking a few minutes to chat. 
 
Q) So take me through the game, you were en fuego tonight. 
 
A) “Ya, uh ya know, I felt like I was back at the crib playing NHL 94 on rookie mode! And damn, boys were buzzin’ tonight for sure! We’ve putting in the work during practice, lots of preparation…as a now disgraced former Super Bowl champ and Seattle Seahawk (Russell Wilson) once said…”the seperation is in the preparation”…he was right…but he’s a goober and he doesn’t play for the hawks any longer…so we don’t like that guy! 
 
Q) Ok Rip interesting take on NFL current events…take me through your three goals, break it down for me.
 
A) “man, I ya know, I uh, felt like a member of seal team 6 buddy, just cooking up snipping ginos for the boys! I was seeing the uh ice in 20 20 vision ya know?! Big time team win ah, for the boys…I mean uh Mexico City has been a uh Goliath…but tonight…we had the slingshot and they called us David”
 
Q) Wow, Rip that’s a lot to unpack! You always have some interesting perspectives on things…I appreciate your time as always good sir…you have a great night and crack open a cold one with the boys, you earned it!
 
A) “Always, team time with the boys is what it’s all about…crack a few bruskis and ahh ya know maybe even some fireball bardownski with the bros…oh yeah…Aces up!”
 
Q) Rip! You’re back! What are you up to you crazy SOB?!
 
A) Buddy! I come bearing gifts! Haha…you know uh, you and the rest of the broadcast team uh, really work your tail off…so i decided to share fire beezy! Let’s goooo! Shots shots shots! Haha 
 
Q) Well, this is definitely a first! Hahaha
 
A) You’ve never had fireball?!  Cmon man! 
 
Q) Ha! Oh no, I’ve definitely had fireball…I went to Washington State University! I’ve just never had a shot ski brought to the broadcast booth! Haha 
 
A) Hey baud, I take care of my guys…and you uh, you know uh, always treat me right! So when I was talking about that SNAKE Russell Wilson…it made me think…you ever heard of the LOB?! 
 
Q) LOB? Lob city? No? Guess I’m not familiar…
 
A) What?! Cmon man! (X2)…the LOB…the Legion Of Boom!!! The most feared defense and secondary in NFL history! 
 
Q) Ok, Ok…but what does that have to do with hockey Rip?
 
A) Well, Russell is a pre Madonna goober snake..but uh, you know uh I’ve fashioned my hockey style after the dark knight himself…Bam Bam Kam Chancellor! He uh, bright the pain every game! He was uh a soul snatcher…just straight up burying bodies on the field…that’s what I envision for my next few years…snatching soils and burying the bodies under sheets of ice! Who wants it! Vegas is ready for anyone, anytime! Wooooo! 
 
Q) Ok well then…(coughing) that fireball shot went down smooth! Thanks for the hospitality, and NFL history lesson Rip. 
 
A) “Anytime, buddy….Aces up!, and drink up!…FIREBALLLLLLL!!”

nterview with rookie Rip Wheeler, VHLM - Las Vegas Aces “post game #264”  
 
Q) Hey Rip, Congrats on the big 7-2 win tonight! You guys beat the top dog in Mexico City! Thanks for taking a few minutes to chat. 
 
Q) So take me through the game, you were en fuego tonight. 
 
A) “Ya, uh ya know, I felt like I was back at the crib playing NHL 94 on rookie mode! And damn, boys were buzzin’ tonight for sure! We’ve putting in the work during practice, lots of preparation…as a now disgraced former Super Bowl champ and Seattle Seahawk (Russell Wilson) once said…”the seperation is in the preparation”…he was right…but he’s a goober and he doesn’t play for the hawks any longer…so we don’t like that guy! 
 
Q) Ok Rip interesting take on NFL current events…take me through your three goals, break it down for me.
 
A) “man, I ya know, I uh, felt like a member of seal team 6 buddy, just cooking up snipping ginos for the boys! I was seeing the uh ice in 20 20 vision ya know?! Big time team win ah, for the boys…I mean uh Mexico City has been a uh Goliath…but tonight…we had the slingshot and they called us David”
 
Q) Wow, Rip that’s a lot to unpack! You always have some interesting perspectives on things…I appreciate your time as always good sir…you have a great night and crack open a cold one with the boys, you earned it!
 
A) “Always, team time with the boys is what it’s all about…crack a few bruskis and ahh ya know maybe even some fireball bardownski with the bros…oh yeah…Aces up!”
 
Q) Rip! You’re back! What are you up to you crazy SOB?!
 
A) Buddy! I come bearing gifts! Haha…you know uh, you and the rest of the broadcast team uh, really work your tail off…so i decided to share fire beezy! Let’s goooo! Shots shots shots! Haha 
 
Q) Well, this is definitely a first! Hahaha
 
A) You’ve never had fireball?!  Cmon man! 
 
Q) Ha! Oh no, I’ve definitely had fireball…I went to Washington State University! I’ve just never had a shot ski brought to the broadcast booth! Haha 
 
A) Hey baud, I take care of my guys…and you uh, you know uh, always treat me right! So when I was talking about that SNAKE Russell Wilson…it made me think…you ever heard of the LOB?! 
 
Q) LOB? Lob city? No? Guess I’m not familiar…
 
A) What?! Cmon man! (X2)…the LOB…the Legion Of Boom!!! The most feared defense and secondary in NFL history! 
 
Q) Ok, Ok…but what does that have to do with hockey Rip?
 
A) Well, Russell is a pre Madonna goober snake..but uh, you know uh I’ve fashioned my hockey style after the dark knight himself…Bam Bam Kam Chancellor! He uh, bright the pain every game! He was uh a soul snatcher…just straight up burying bodies on the field…that’s what I envision for my next few years…snatching soils and burying the bodies under sheets of ice! Who wants it! Vegas is ready for anyone, anytime! Wooooo! 
 
Q) Ok well then…(coughing) that fireball shot went down smooth! Thanks for the hospitality, and NFL history lesson Rip. 
 
A) “Anytime, buddy….Aces up!, and drink up!…FIREBALLLLLLL!!”

The Payne Train is Back!
 
After an uncharacteristically slow start, the train of Payne is back rolling! Brian Payne of the Warsaw Predators, is Top 5 in assists for all players…(shoutout to Thunder at #1…he’s too 6 in total points for a d man. Pints, assists…those are nice…but in the world of Payne…other stats take center stage!
 
Top 5 in shots blocked, Payne loves to give up the body for the club…he’s also Top 5 in hits with 273 in 65 games! Damn! You won’t see Payne among the hits take. leaders, because everyone is afraid of that left hand answer to any tomfoolery out there on the rink. 
 
His biggest attribute and where you will see Brian Payne sitting on the throne is when it comes to penalty minutes or PIMS….226 pims through 65 games…he’s holding on to the number one spot by more than 35 minutes! It’s a good thing he likes audio books, cuz Payne spend plenty of time in the sin bin. Keep your head up when you’re on the tracks…cuz the Payne train is back and coming in hot! 

The Payne Train is Back!
 
After an uncharacteristically slow start, the train of Payne is back rolling! Brian Payne of the Warsaw Predators, is Top 5 in assists for all players…(shoutout to Thunder at #1…he’s too 6 in total points for a d man. Pints, assists…those are nice…but in the world of Payne…other stats take center stage!
 
Top 5 in shots blocked, Payne loves to give up the body for the club…he’s also Top 5 in hits with 273 in 65 games! Damn! You won’t see Payne among the hits take. leaders, because everyone is afraid of that left hand answer to any tomfoolery out there on the rink. 
 
His biggest attribute and where you will see Brian Payne sitting on the throne is when it comes to penalty minutes or PIMS….226 pims through 65 games…he’s holding on to the number one spot by more than 35 minutes! It’s a good thing he likes audio books, cuz Payne spend plenty of time in the sin bin. Keep your head up when you’re on the tracks…cuz the Payne train is back and coming in hot! 

Rivalry week!
 
As defined by Miriam Websters dictionary, Rivalry, the noun is defined as the act of rivaling : the state of being a rival : COMPETITION. I began to go down the rabbit hole of Miriam…and Webster and i kept coming back to three words rivalry, competition and competitor…words and definitions have meaning, but a true rivalry is so much more than just a standard words associated with it…Today I will dive into a few of my favorites, from my childhood and of course the VHL!
 
First things first, I grew up going to Seattle Thunderbirds games with my dad. We had season tickets and rarely missed a game! For those that don’t know, the Thunderbirds played in the Western Hockey League (WHL) which is part of the Canadian Hockey League. This is a Major Junior hockey league that spans all over Canada and parts of Washington and Oregon in the United States. For those that remember, the 90’s in junior hockey or hockey in general were the so entertaining and exciting! Almost like a golden age of hockey…old time hockey, hard nosed players mixed in with the skill and finesse of todays game. The biggest rival the Thunderbirds had were the Portland Winterhawks. Their tribute to the Chicago blackhawks jerseys clashed beautifully with the T Birds blue and green of the Hartford whalers theme. But what made the rivalry great was the players…T Bird greats and NHL alums like Brendon Witt, Turner Stevenson, Patrick Marleau and Oleg Saprykin to the gritty role players that were always down to hit and of course drop the mitts…Brett Duncan was a absolute wildman, with 343 pims in 64 games from the D spot too! Little Tyler Willis was a beauty and 300 pim guy himself!…and Kevin Popp and Lloyd Shaw were beasts on the blue line. 
 
A rivalry needs two willing participants and the winterhawks definitely provided that! Adam Deadmarsh was an absolute stud, 99 points and 212 pims in 65 games! Some of my other favorite players to hate were John Badduke (367 pim guy), Joey Teterenko, and NHL studs like Marian Hosea and Andrew Ference. 
 
Every game was a battle and complete gong show…fights on the ice, fights in the stands…and 12 year old me having the time of my life! Nothing better than yelling “Portland sucks!” with my pops and 8,000 of my closest friends lol…a close second would be when the Birds would light the lamp and The “Hey Song” by Gary Glitter started blaring out of the arena speakers. 
 
Ok, now to the VHL…few individual rivalries have the complexity and intrigue of my favorite two defenseman studs Brian Payne and Jake Thunder. Both are VHL veterans and both tearing it up on season 87. 
 
Let’s talk a bit about the Payne train…the two time Jack Wilde award winner, has been a main stay at the top of the stat board for the past few seasons for the Warsaw Predators. A well rounded for the but tough nosed player, Payne is usually near the top in points, plus minus and of course hits (Payne train!). This season (87), Payne has started a bit slow out of the gates, but is still on pace top tier numbers in assists and hits. And he’s still got a solid hold on the #1 penalty minute crown! He may not win a third Jack Wilde, but he still good be in the mix with a strong finish. 
 
Now let’s talk about HC Davos Dynamo and Jake Thunder. Thunder won the Dustin Funk trophy in season 85 and has continued his accent to the top of the defensemen ranks over the past few seasons. A steady presence on the blue line, Thunder has a veteran presence about him that (not just cuz he’s old) that makes him a valuable piece of any post season run for the Dynamo. Thunder is definitely a playoff producer with 23 points in 16 games during last seasons playoff run. 
 
This is a great rivalry because once good friends, they are now both vying for VHL glory and have become bitter enemies…they did have a chance to settle it up and go Mano y Mano as they say last season…during that tilt, the Payne train was derailed by a few Thunder bombs and bragging rights were secured until the next tilt. I know Payne has been training and waiting for his day of redemption. 
 
In closing rivalry’s are what life and especially hockey are all about. Whether its riding the Payne train or raining down Thunder storms, I hope that my player Rip Wheeler will someday be mentioned in the same breath as these two VHL greats in the making. 

Interview with rookie Rip Wheeler, VHLM - Las Vegas Aces “post game #244”: 
 
Q) Hey Rip, Congrats on the big 5-1 win tonight! Thanks for taking a few minutes to chat. 
 
Q) So take me through the game, seems like you were seeing the ice really well tonight. 
 
A) “Ya, uh ya know, the boys were buzzin’ tonight for sure! I mean almost 50 shots, ya know it was like a shooting gallery out there! 
 
Q) Yeah, Rip take me through your three assists, break it down for me.
 
A) “man, I ya know, I uh, felt like Gordon Ramsey or Martha Stew buddy, just cooking up Apple pies for the boys! I was seeing the uh ice well and uh ya know the boys made me look good finishin’ off my passes going up top where the cookie jar sits ya know?! Big time team sun for the boys”
 
Q) Wow, Rip that’s a lot to unpack! Haha wanna shine a light on any of the boys?
 
A) “Always! You know uh, My man “ESD”(Eurydyka Sklodowska Dudz) crushed souls with 9 hits! And a Gino to top it off? I uh, really Loved the old time hockey vibes from my guy on the rink tonight!”
 
Q) He was definitely wrecking shop out there! Great win again and thanks for the time Rip. 
 
A) “Yes sir baud, I got you….Aces up!”

Interview with rookie Rip Wheeler, VHLM - Las Vegas Aces “post game #244”: 
 
Q) Hey Rip, Congrats on the big 5-1 win tonight! Thanks for taking a few minutes to chat. 
 
Q) So take me through the game, seems like you were seeing the ice really well tonight. 
 
A) “Ya, uh ya know, the boys were buzzin’ tonight for sure! I mean almost 50 shots, ya know it was like a shooting gallery out there! 
 
Q) Yeah, Rip take me through your three assists, break it down for me.
 
A) “man, I ya know, I uh, felt like Gordon Ramsey or Martha Stew buddy, just cooking up Apple pies for the boys! I was seeing the uh ice well and uh ya know the boys made me look good finishin’ off my passes going up top where the cookie jar sits ya know?! Big time team sun for the boys”
 
Q) Wow, Rip that’s a lot to unpack! Haha wanna shine a light on any of the boys?
 
A) “Always! You know uh, My man “ESD”(Eurydyka Sklodowska Dudz) crushed souls with 9 hits! And a Gino to top it off? I uh, really Loved the old time hockey vibes from my guy on the rink tonight!”
 
Q) He was definitely wrecking shop out there! Great win again and thanks for the time Rip. 
 
A) “Yes sir baud, I got you….Aces up!”

Interview with rookie Rip Wheeler, VHLM - Las Vegas Aces - Post Game #116: 
 
Q) Welcome Rip, thanks for taking the time to sit down for a few minutes after the big win tonight. 
 
Q) So how’s it feel to have a few to be the first star of the game!
 
A) “You know bud? I’m more excited about the uh, big win for the club! I just kept my head down followed the game plan and we got er done tonight. Can’t say enough about the boys though, really played hard for each other and everyone in the room.”
 
Q) Yeah, the locker room was on fire tonight after the game!…have you ever been the first star of the game before Rip? 
 
A) “Haha, maybe in bantams or something…you know uh, I, uh see myself as more of a “T Triple G” type of guy…you know someone who just likes gettin’ it goin’ with the boys. Doing whatever it takes…and uh, I’ve had quite a few Gordie’s in my time, but never had my name get called after the game for the prime time interview! It was a little uncomfortable, but you know…I’ll keep er going and dealing with the media side if we keep uh get to keep smacking the Dub button after the game! 
 
Q) Ok Rip, I gotta ask “T Triple G”? You gotta break it down for my man. 
 
A) Well uh, ya know it just describes me as a player and as a dude really…”Team Guy Glue Guy”…”TGGG or T Triple G”. On or off the ice…Whether it’s ya know just going out and uh, bangin’ bodies for the boys or fillin’ up the stat sheet with Gino’s and apples aplenty, I do whatever I can for the boys, the club, the coaching staff and the brass…can’t forget about the brass! 
 
Q) So Rip, you said you’re a Team Guy and Glue Guy, on and office the ice….can you elaborate on that? Inquiring minds want to know. 
 
A) Well buddy, I’ll break it down like this…you know uh, my buddy and mentor, VHL star Brian Payne…what an absolute beauty right?! So uh, ya know uh, let’s just say uh the Ol’ Payne train and I link up for off-night heater at one of the many local watering holes….we grab a few rounds of top shelf whiskey n a sucker of yellowjackets…he’s gonna be payin’…making all that big money up in the show! So the nights coming down the wire and Payne is looking to close the deal, I’ll be his wingman, take one for the team, you know uh, do what it takes for the team or in that case my boy Pain the gets the Dub! 
 
On the ice? Whether it’s throwing my weight around early and often, throwing these hands, or laying out to black and shot, I’m uh, the guy that’s ready willing and able…you know uh, putting some pucks bar down or saucing some passes and showing off the silky mitts, I’ll do whatever the team needs, period. 
 
Q) Wow! Ok well then…you learn something new every day! Thanks for the time Rip. 
 
A) “For sure baud…Aces up!”
 
528 words 

Interview with rookie Rip Wheeler, VHLM - Las Vegas Aces - Post Game #116: 
 
Q) Welcome Rip, thanks for taking the time to sit down for a few minutes after the big win tonight. 
 
Q) So how’s it feel to have a few to be the first star of the game!
 
A) “You know bud? I’m more excited about the uh, big win for the club! I just kept my head down followed the game plan and we got er done tonight. Can’t say enough about the boys though, really played hard for each other and everyone in the room.”
 
Q) Yeah, the locker room was on fire tonight after the game!…have you ever been the first star of the game before Rip? 
 
A) “Haha, maybe in bantams or something…you know uh, I, uh see myself as more of a “T Triple G” type of guy…you know someone who just likes gettin’ it goin’ with the boys. Doing whatever it takes…and uh, I’ve had quite a few Gordie’s in my time, but never had my name get called after the game for the prime time interview! It was a little uncomfortable, but you know…I’ll keep er going and dealing with the media side if we keep uh get to keep smacking the Dub button after the game! 
 
Q) Ok Rip, I gotta ask “T Triple G”? You gotta break it down for my man. 
 
A) Well uh, ya know it just describes me as a player and as a dude really…”Team Guy Glue Guy”…”TGGG or T Triple G”. On or off the ice…Whether it’s ya know just going out and uh, bangin’ bodies for the boys or fillin’ up the stat sheet with Gino’s and apples aplenty, I do whatever I can for the boys, the club, the coaching staff and the brass…can’t forget about the brass! 
 
Q) So Rip, you said you’re a Team Guy and Glue Guy, on and office the ice….can you elaborate on that? Inquiring minds want to know. 
 
A) Well buddy, I’ll break it down like this…you know uh, my buddy and mentor, VHL star Brian Payne…what an absolute beauty right?! So uh, ya know uh, let’s just say uh the Ol’ Payne train and I link up for off-night heater at one of the many local watering holes….we grab a few rounds of top shelf whiskey n a sucker of yellowjackets…he’s gonna be payin’…making all that big money up in the show! So the nights coming down the wire and Payne is looking to close the deal, I’ll be his wingman, take one for the team, you know uh, do what it takes for the team or in that case my boy Pain the gets the Dub! 
 
On the ice? Whether it’s throwing my weight around early and often, throwing these hands, or laying out to black and shot, I’m uh, the guy that’s ready willing and able…you know uh, putting some pucks bar down or saucing some passes and showing off the silky mitts, I’ll do whatever the team needs, period. 
 
Q) Wow! Ok well then…you learn something new every day! Thanks for the time Rip. 
 
A) “For sure baud…Aces up!”
 
528 words 

https://anchor.fm/sharky3

Interview with rookie Rip Wheeler, VHLM - Las Vegas Aces - Post Game #116: 
 
Q) Welcome Rip, thanks for taking the time to sit down for a few minutes after the big win tonight. 
 
Q) So how’s it feel to have a few to be the first star of the game!
 
A) “You know bud? I’m more excited about the uh, big win for the club! I just kept my head down followed the game plan and we got er done tonight. Can’t say enough about the boys though, really played hard for each other and everyone in the room.”
 
Q) Yeah, the locker room was on fire tonight after the game!…have you ever been the first star of the game before Rip? 
 
A) “Haha, maybe in bantams or something…you know uh, I, uh see myself as more of a “T Triple G” type of guy…you know someone who just likes gettin’ it goin’ with the boys. Doing whatever it takes…and uh, I’ve had quite a few Gordie’s in my time, but never had my name get called after the game for the prime time interview! It was a little uncomfortable, but you know…I’ll keep er going and dealing with the media side if we keep uh get to keep smacking the Dub button after the game! 
 
Q) Ok Rip, I gotta ask “T Triple G”? You gotta break it down for my man. 
 
A) Well uh, ya know it just describes me as a player and as a dude really…”Team Guy Glue Guy”…”TGGG or T Triple G”. On or off the ice…Whether it’s ya know just going out and uh, bangin’ bodies for the boys or fillin’ up the stat sheet with Gino’s and apples aplenty, I do whatever I can for the boys, the club, the coaching staff and the brass…can’t forget about the brass! 
 
Q) So Rip, you said you’re a Team Guy and Glue Guy, on and office the ice….can you elaborate on that? Inquiring minds want to know. 
 
A) Well buddy, I’ll break it down like this…you know uh, my buddy and mentor, VHL star Brian Payne…what an absolute beauty right?! So uh, ya know uh, let’s just say uh the Ol’ Payne train and I link up for off-night heater at one of the many local watering holes….we grab a few rounds of top shelf whiskey n a sucker of yellowjackets…he’s gonna be payin’…making all that big money up in the show! So the nights coming down the wire and Payne is looking to close the deal, I’ll be his wingman, take one for the team, you know uh, do what it takes for the team or in that case my boy Pain the gets the Dub! 
 
On the ice? Whether it’s throwing my weight around early and often, throwing these hands, or laying out to black and shot, I’m uh, the guy that’s ready willing and able…you know uh, putting some pucks bar down or saucing some passes and showing off the silky mitts, I’ll do whatever the team needs, period. 
 
Q) Wow! Ok well then…you learn something new every day! Thanks for the time Rip. 
 
A) “For sure baud…Aces up!”
 
528 words 

1) Blazzer, she’s the boss!
2) we’re doing ok, if we string together a few wins, we’ll be right in the mix for 2nd in the conferences 
3) Pretty well…wish I had a few more Hits,  but Rip has been working hard in the weight room, so hopefully the aggressive play continues to escalate. 
4) Mexico City is a buzzsaw so far this season. 
5) Rip…I feel like all good nicknames come
from whatever the boys are feelin’…not gonna give myself a nickname…if it happens it happens. 
6) bacon and maple….either bacon with pancakes and syrup or a bacon maple bar…taste combo us 🤌🤌🤌.

1) Blazzer, she’s the boss!
2) we’re doing ok, if we string together a few wins, we’ll be right in the mix for 2nd in the conferences 
3) Pretty well…wish I had a few more Hits,  but Rip has been working hard in the weight room, so hopefully the aggressive play continues to escalate. 
4) Mexico City is a buzzsaw so far this season. 
5) Rip…I feel like all good nicknames come
from whatever the boys are feelin’…not gonna give myself a nickname…if it happens it happens. 
6) bacon and maple….either bacon with pancakes and syrup or a bacon maple bar…taste combo us 🤌🤌🤌.

Rag on me all you want @JardyB10!!  i dont mind at all….  Its still not easy to do a podcast!  And Rip, OMG…. I was going to try to be nice to Scottyp for a while but when you talked about Rip Wheeler being a gritty player.. F that.   Scottyp, you know you should have named your player Jimmy!  Scurvy dont let him get away with it

https://anchor.fm/jardy-b/episodes/Jardys-Nodesode-45-Welcome-ScottyP-e1u50qm
 
In today’s episode, I welcome @ScottyP three days ago and demonstrate how easy and sloppy earning TPE is. Mostly, I’m just managing my cat though.
 
@Thunder @Scurvy

Interview with rookie Rip Wheeler, VHLM - Las Vegas Aces: 
 
Q) Welcome Rip, thanks for taking the time to sit down for a few minutes after your debut action in the VHL…So how’s it feel to have a few games under your belt?
 
A) “Man, what a wild ride…you know I was uh, happy just to get the uh first game jitters out of the way and go out there and hit somebody!”
 
Q) Ok. Ok, very nice…haha…so what was the best part about stepping out in the ice opening night? 
 
A) “Just gettin’ it goin’ with the boys, and uh, working hard, nose to the grindstone…Ol’ ESD with the hatty against Halifax, just playin’ lights out for the club looking like Bobby Orr out there!…oh and uh, Varly and Simmer too, the boys up front were definitely gettin it after it…and uh, yeah, we’re definitely getting some confidence growing in the room sure.” 
 
Q) Ok Rip, any parting bits of wisdom or random thoughts? 
 
A) “I just wanna keep up the momentum, put on a show for the great fans in Vegas and uh keep racking up some more dubyas for the club.” 
 
Q) Sounds like a good plan, thanks the time Rip. 
 
A) “Anytime…Aces up!”